From Melbourne: Werribee Open Range Zoo & Werribee Mansion

From Melbourne: Werribee Open Range Zoo & Werribee Mansion

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines history, wildlife, and stunning scenery just outside Melbourne, this tour offers an engaging option. Designed for all ages, it balances educational moments with fun, making it a great choice for families, couples, or anyone curious about Australia’s past and its diverse fauna.

Two things we love about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who bring each site alive and the chance to see African animals on a safari right in Victoria. This isn’t just a typical zoo visit — it’s an adventure with a touch of history that provides a sense of authentic discovery.

A possible consideration is the timing, as the day is packed and can feel a bit rushed if you want to linger longer at each stop. Also, lunch isn’t included, so budget around $20–$30 or bring your own picnic.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural heritage and wildlife encounters, especially those looking for a flexible, value-packed day without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines historic mansion exploration and wildlife safari in one day.
• Expert Guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides make history and animals come alive.
• Self-Guided Tours: Freedom to explore Werribee Mansion and zoo at your own pace.
• Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of lions, zebras, giraffes, and more via safari bus.
• Flexible Timing: Approximate 7-hour itinerary with plenty of organized and free time.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, entry fees, and a guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This tour offers an excellent way to experience two distinct sides of Werribee in one day — the stately Werribee Mansion and the lively Werribee Open Range Zoo. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it manageable even for those with a busy schedule or limited time in Melbourne.

Starting Out: From Melbourne to Werribee

You’ll meet your guide at the Ian Potter Centre, on Flinders Street opposite the historic Forum Theatre — a central, easy-to-find spot. The drive to Werribee takes roughly 40 minutes, giving you a comfortable ride with scenic views of Victoria’s outskirts.

Visiting Werribee Mansion

Arriving at Werribee Mansion around 10 am, you’ll have about two hours for a self-guided tour through one of Australia’s grandest 19th-century estates. The mansion itself is a beautifully restored example of Victorian architecture, with sumptuous rooms that once housed the influential Chirnside family.

The gardens surrounding the estate are especially noteworthy — during certain seasons, the rose gardens are in full bloom, providing perfect photo opportunities. However, some reviews mention that flowers may still be in planting stages if visiting outside peak bloom times, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

The mansion tour provides a window into Australia’s pastoral past, with informative signage and a chance to wander freely through the lush grounds. Many guests have noted the impressive craftsmanship and the sense of stepping back in time.

Transition to the Zoo

After a brief break, you’ll head to Werribee Open Range Zoo, arriving around 12:15 pm. The zoo’s layout and animal exhibits are designed to mimic African environments, and the safari experience is a highlight for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Werribee Open Range Zoo

You’ll have roughly 3.75 hours to explore the zoo — plenty of time to see the animals, take a safari ride, and enjoy the various talks and animal encounters offered throughout the day.

The Safari Bus ride, which lasts about 40 minutes and is included in the ticket, is a major draw. It offers a close-up view of lions, zebras, giraffes, and antelope, providing a sense of the African plains without leaving Victoria. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the up-close wildlife encounters and the expert commentary from guides on board, which greatly enhances the experience.

In addition, there are animal talks and interactive experiences, some at extra cost, allowing children and adults alike to get more involved. Although the zoo doesn’t have a huge number of animals compared to larger facilities, it is well-maintained, clean, and thoughtfully designed for a relaxed walk.

Wrap-up and Return

By 4 pm, you’ll meet your guide for the return trip to Melbourne, arriving back at the Ian Potter Centre around 5 pm. This schedule leaves you with a full, satisfying day without feeling overly rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided commentary provided by Rick’s Tours is consistently praised. Guests mention how the guides effectively balance storytelling with practical information, making history and wildlife accessible and engaging. Several reviews highlight Rick’s personality and knowledge as key strengths, with one reviewer stating, “Rick was fantastic… we learned a lot from him.”

The value for money is notable, considering the full day’s inclusions: transportation, entry fees, and the safari ride. Many travelers have appreciated the comfortable bus and the flexibility of a self-guided tour component, allowing us to explore at our own pace.

The combination of stunning scenery, historic architecture, and African wildlife makes this experience particularly appealing to families, couples, and anyone interested in a diverse day trip. The ability to see lions and giraffes in a setting close to Melbourne is a rare treat, especially for those who don’t want to travel to far-flung destinations.

The Experience in Detail

Werribee Mansion offers a glimpse into Australia’s pastoral wealth of the 19th century. The mansion’s restored rooms are full of period furniture, and the gardens provide peaceful surroundings for a leisurely stroll. Many visitors have said, “The mansion and the grounds are beautiful,” and others love the chance to explore independently, thanks to the self-guided format.

Werribee Open Range Zoo feels like a mini-immersion into African savannahs. The safari ride is a major highlight, giving you the chance to see animals in a more naturalistic environment than traditional zoo enclosures. The zoo’s design emphasizes space and natural habitat mimicry, which enhances the viewing experience.

Guests have praised the cleanliness and quality of facilities, as well as the relaxed atmosphere. While some noted that the zoo doesn’t have a large number of animals, the focus on quality and presentation makes up for quantity.

The guides and host are frequently commended for their friendliness and storytelling ability. One reviewer said, “Rick really put his heart into the tour,” which helps make the experience memorable.

Food options are available at the zoo’s café, but since lunch is not included, travelers should plan ahead. Bringing a picnic or budgeting extra can make the day more flexible.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the mansion and zoo grounds.
• Bring water — bottled water is provided during the tour, but extra hydration is always a good idea.
• Plan for a midday snack or lunch at the zoo’s café or bring your own picnic.
• If you’re interested in behind-the-scenes wildlife experiences, these can be booked as optional extras starting from +$40 per person.
• The tour is suitable for children aged 5 and above, but keep in mind that the schedule can be busy and the walking extensive.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded day trip that combines history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. It suits those who prefer guided tours for convenience but also want time to explore independently. Families with children will particularly enjoy the zoo and the interactive parts, while history buffs will appreciate the mansion’s architecture and stories.

If you enjoy animal encounters, learning about local and international fauna, or simply want to enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free day out from Melbourne, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers good value for money and a thoughtfully curated mix of experiences. The combination of historic elegance at Werribee Mansion and exciting wildlife at the open-range zoo makes it a versatile day trip. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation are added bonuses that elevate the day beyond just seeing sights — they make it memorable.

While it’s not the most intensive wildlife safari you’ll find worldwide, for a convenient, family-friendly outing close to Melbourne, it hits the mark. Perfect for those who want a taste of Africa and Australia’s colonial history all in one accessible package.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but you should budget around $20–$30 for a meal at the zoo’s café or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the gardens.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free exploration time.

Is there a guide during the visit?
Yes, a knowledgeable host accompanies the tour, providing commentary at each site. The guides are praised for their friendliness and storytelling skills.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The tour is open to all people aged 5 and above. Kids tend to love the zoo’s animals and the mansion’s grounds.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Entry to Werribee Mansion and Werribee Open Range Zoo, the safari bus ride, bottled water, and transportation to and from Melbourne.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, behind-the-scenes wildlife experiences are available starting from +$40 per person.

How accessible is the tour?
While suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at the mansion and zoo, as large bags, bikes, and strollers are not allowed on the tour bus.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced, engaging day that highlights Victoria’s heritage and wildlife. It’s especially valuable for those wanting a flexible, guided experience that combines education and fun, with the bonus of seeing African animals without leaving Australia.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby