Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo – excl. entry

Our review of the Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a detailed look into an experience that promises the thrill of an African safari without leaving Melbourne. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the feedback from travelers paints a compelling picture of what to expect—close encounters with animals, expert guides, and a journey into the savannah that feels both authentic and family-friendly.

Two standout features draw our attention: the off-road access that gets you much closer to the animals than the regular zoo tour, and the knowledgeable, friendly guides who bring the safari to life with engaging commentary. On the flip side, potential visitors should be aware that the tour excludes general zoo admission, meaning you’ll need to purchase your entry ticket separately. This setup makes sense for those wanting a dedicated safari ride, but it’s worth planning for this extra step.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone craving a more personal, up-close experience with animals like giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. If you’re after a relaxing yet informative adventure that offers a taste of Africa’s wildlife in Australia, this safari could be perfect. However, those with mobility issues or who dislike rough terrain might want to consider comfort levels before booking.

Key Points

• Close animal encounters: The off-road vehicle gets you within a few meters of animals such as giraffes and rhinos, offering memorable sights.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging, detailed commentary, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Value for money: At just over $43 per person, many reviewers feel the tour provides a good balance of cost and memorable experience.
• Excludes zoo entry: You must buy your general admission separately, so factor that into your planning.
• Short but immersive: The 75-minute journey packs in a lot of wildlife viewing in a compact format.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience remains relatively intimate and well-paced.

An In-Depth Look at the Werribee Safari Experience

The Deluxe Safari Adventure runs for about 75 minutes, which is a decent chunk of time to enjoy the excitement without feeling overwhelmed. From the moment you meet at the Werribee Open Range Zoo, you’re greeted by a driver-guide who is typically both friendly and knowledgeable—many reviewers praise guides like Brontë and Jill for their engaging commentary and genuine passion for animals.

The Journey Off-Road

Unlike the free open-range safari, this tour ventures off the beaten dirt roads into the zoo’s more naturalistic open plains. This is where the true magic happens. You’ll be riding in a 4-wheel drive vehicle, which is specially set up with comfortable seating that ensures everyone gets a good view. As the vehicle bumps along, your guide points out the animals and shares insights about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation stories.

Travellers often mention how close they get to the animals—frequently just a few meters away. One visitor remarked, “We were lucky but we had a wonderful driver and Guide Jill. She was a great provider of information about the first Nations people whose land the Zoo is on and the real purpose of the Zoo to save endangered species like the Mongolian wild horses and Oryx.”

Encountering the Animals

Much of the appeal lies in the close encounters. Giraffes reach over the vehicle, zebras graze nearby, and rhinos stand calmly in their enclosure. Several reviews highlight the value of seeing animals “in an open range, not in cages,” which gives a more authentic feeling of seeing wildlife in a natural setting. As one reviewer put it, “We chose this tour to see that animals in an open range, not in cages. It did not disappoint.”

The Guide’s Role

Guides are a highlight for many participants. They offer live commentary that is both informative and personable. Several reviews praise the guides’ depth of knowledge; one said, “The guide was professional. The view was stunning, so close with the animals.” Others appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and get detailed answers, which added a layer of educational value.

Value and Cost

At around $43 per person, the tour is considered affordable, especially given the close-up views and knowledgeable guides. Many reviews emphasize that paying extra for this safari upgrade is worth it for those wanting a more intimate experience than the standard zoo tour provides. One reviewer said, “Really worth paying extra for the safari. Excellent presenter with very good knowledge of all the animals.”

However, a few comments highlight the need for careful planning—some complained about confusion regarding booking or the extra cost versus the free safari, which is available elsewhere in the zoo. As always, doing your homework ensures the experience delivers what you expect.

Practical Considerations

• Booking and Entry: The safari is booked separately from general zoo admission, so plan to arrive early enough to explore the zoo before or after your ride.
• Weather and Comfort: The experience is outdoors and subject to weather conditions. Be prepared for sun, rain, or chill—reviewers suggest bringing layers or blankets.
• Children and Accessibility: The minimum age is 8, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The vehicle is designed for comfort, but rough terrain might not suit everyone.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a less crowded, more personal experience.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which offers flexibility if weather or plans change.

Critical Feedback

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers have voiced frustrations—such as confusion about booking procedures or feeling that the additional cost isn’t justified if they can see similar animals on the free tour. A few also wish for more inclusion, like visits to other parts of the zoo (e.g., Elephant Walk). These critiques remind us to weigh the benefits of the off-road experience against the standard zoo options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits families with kids, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a more immersive zoo experience. If you’re after close-up encounters with giraffes, rhinos, and zebras, and enjoy learning from passionate guides, you’ll find this adventure rewarding. It’s especially appealing if you prefer small-group tours that feel less rushed and more personal.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer free activities, you might find the standard zoo safari sufficient or feel that the extra expense isn’t justified. Also, travelers wary of outdoor conditions or rough terrain may want to consider comfort levels before booking.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee is an opportunity for a special, close-up encounter with African-style wildlife, all within a short drive from Melbourne. It offers a blend of education, excitement, and comfort that many visitors find well worth the price. The knowledgeable guides, coupled with the stunning views of animals in a naturalistic setting, create a memorable experience that stands out from typical zoo visits.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see wildlife in a more natural setting, love learning about animals, and enjoy a private, slightly adventurous ride. If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a unique photo opportunity, this safari delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Do I need to buy my zoo entry separately?
Yes, the tour excludes general admission, so you’ll need to purchase your entry ticket separately.

How long is the safari tour?
The safari lasts about 75 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy sightings and commentary.

Can children participate?
Children must be at least 8 years old and accompanied by an adult.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a driver/guide, live commentary, and the off-road adventure in a 4WD vehicle.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is set up with good seating and offers good views, making for a comfortable and engaging ride.

What about weather restrictions?
The tour is outdoor and may be canceled due to weather issues. Be prepared for different weather conditions and dress accordingly.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, the Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo is a well-regarded, value-packed option for those wanting a taste of real wildlife encounters in a controlled, accessible setting. With its knowledgeable guides, close animal sightings, and manageable group size, it offers an experience that’s both fun and educational—an excellent choice for animal lovers and curious travelers alike.