Werribee Open Range Zoo: Entry Ticket

Thinking about a day of adventure that mixes wildlife, open landscapes, and family fun? Werribee Open Range Zoo offers just that, and it’s a popular choice for travelers looking for an authentic experience without leaving Victoria. With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 600 reviews, this zoo has made a name for itself as a place where you can see animals roaming in naturalistic settings, all wrapped up in a well-organized, family-friendly package.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see iconic African animals like lions, giraffes, and rhinos in a setting that feels more like the wild than a traditional zoo. Plus, the guided safari included in your entry makes it easy to spot the big sights without feeling overwhelmed by the size of the grounds. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some visitors find the comparison to an African safari a bit ambitious—it’s a zoo, not a continent. Nonetheless, if you’re craving a close-up wildlife experience with the convenience of Melbourne’s doorstep, this is hard to beat.

This experience suits nature lovers, families with children, and anyone eager to learn about global wildlife conservation while enjoying a leisurely day out. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne or just looking for a day trip that offers both education and entertainment, Werribee Open Range Zoo is a strong contender.

Key Points

• Open Range Setting: Over 200 hectares of naturalistic landscapes mimic African savannahs, offering authentic views of animals in expansive habitats.
• Guided Safari Included: A free tram-style safari tour lets you spot rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more—no extra cost.
• Diverse Animal Collection: Lions, gorillas, hippos, rhinos, and Australian animals like kangaroos and koalas make for a varied wildlife lineup.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Children under 16 enter free on weekends and holidays; the site is wheelchair accessible.
• Value & Food: Reasonable prices for a full day’s entertainment; the zoo’s café offers fresh, well-reviewed food options.
• Authentic Experience: Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the naturalistic habitats, which provide a refreshing change from traditional cages.

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Exploring the Grounds: What You Can Expect

Werribee Open Range Zoo is about transporting visitors from Melbourne to the plains of Africa — without the jet lag or expensive flights. The zoo is located just 30 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, easily reachable by car or public transport. If you’re taking the train, Werribee station is your starting point, with a short bus ride to the gate.

The Safari Experience

The highlight for many is the guided safari tour included with your ticket. This isn’t just a bus ride; it’s an opportunity to see some of the largest land animals in settings that resemble their natural habitats. Reviewers frequently mention how guides recognize animals by name and offer insightful commentary. As one noted, “Our safari ride guide, Holly, was wonderful. She recognized each animal and shared fascinating details.” The safari is approximately 40 minutes long, and you’ll love the way it feels like a mini-journey into the wild—with zebras, giraffes, and rhinos passing just feet away.

Animal Encounters & Exhibits

Beyond the safari, the zoo boasts remarkable animal exhibits. Visitors often face the lions, which are housed in a sprawling, naturalistic enclosure—”face-to-face with a pride of lions,” as one reviewer put it. The gorilla exhibit is among the largest in the world, offering a captivating view of these intelligent primates. Monkeys, hippos, and cheetahs are also on display, with many visitors remarking on how close and natural their habitats are.

Australian Animals & Grasslands

A walk through the Australian Journey grasslands reveals kangaroos, emus, brolgas, and koalas. Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated seeing native species in a setting that feels designed to mimic their native environments. As one visitor said, “It was wonderful to see animals in close to their natural habitats—much better than traditional cages.”

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Dining & Facilities

The zoo offers picnic areas for those bringing their own lunch, and the on-site Meerkat Bistro gets praise for offering freshly made, reasonably priced food—something rare in many zoos. Some reviewers mention that the food is of unexpectedly high quality, with fresh ingredients and good value. The availability of picnic spots makes it easy for families to avoid high restaurant prices and enjoy a relaxed meal.

Cost & Value for Money

Your ticket covers a full day of activities, with many reviewers noting that the price is fair considering the quality of the experience. Children under 16 can enter free on weekends and holidays, making it even more family-friendly. Plus, options like the mystery behind-the-scenes tour for an extra fee add extra value for those wanting a deeper look at animal care.

Accessibility & Practical Tips

Getting there is straightforward, especially if you take public transport—just a train to Werribee and a short bus ride. The zoo is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. Arrive early to avoid crowds, as some reviews mention that mid-morning tends to be busier.

Authentic Experiences & Authentic Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, with many noting how guides recognize animals by name and share meaningful insights. One reviewer even shared, “The entire staff are really dedicated to the animals’ well-being and survival,” reflecting the zoo’s commitment to conservation.

The safari ride emerges as the crowd favorite, with many calling it “worth every penny” and a “highlight.” The close animal encounters, especially during the safari, leave a lasting impression—many describe it as feeling like a mini-escape into the wild.

Some reviews mention the zoo’s ongoing efforts to breed animals to fight extinction, which adds an educational dimension. Meanwhile, a few visitors note that while the zoo tries to emulate an African safari, it’s still a zoo—so expectations should be realistic.

The Practicalities: Who, When, & What to Know

Who will enjoy this? It’s perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed day in nature without traveling overseas. The zoo is especially friendly for children, with free entry for kids under 16 on some days.

When to visit? Early mornings are best if you want to beat the crowds and see animals at their most active. Weekends and school holidays are popular, so arrive early if you prefer a quieter experience.

How much does it cost? The general entry ticket offers excellent value, especially with children under 16 entering free. Consider adding optional extras like behind-the-scenes tours if you’re eager for more.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, plenty of water, and a picnic blanket for relaxing in the grassy areas. The zoo has water refill stations, so staying hydrated is easy.

Accessibility? The entire site is wheelchair accessible, and the guided safari tour is suitable for all mobility levels.

The Sum Up: Is Werribee Open Range Zoo Worth It?

For a close-to-Melbourne wildlife adventure, this zoo offers a surprisingly authentic experience. The guided safari is a major draw, providing a sense of being out in the wild, while the exhibits and native animals ensure a well-rounded visit. Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value for money.

It’s ideal for families — especially with free entry for kids on weekends and holidays — and for travelers seeking a relaxed, educational day out. While it may not fully replicate an African safari, the naturalistic habitats and animal encounters come very close, making this a memorable experience for all ages.

If your goal is to see animals in settings that resemble their natural homes without the expense or hassle of international travel, Werribee Open Range Zoo delivers on that promise. Just remember to arrive early, bring your own lunch if possible, and keep an eye out for those lions—close enough to make you feel like you’re right there on the plains.

FAQs

Is there a guided tour included in the ticket price?
Yes, a complimentary guided safari across the open-range savannah is included with your general admission ticket. It’s about 40 minutes long and a highlight for many visitors.

How do I get to the zoo from Melbourne?
You can drive about 30 minutes west over the Westgate Bridge or via Geelong Road. If you prefer public transport, take a train from Melbourne CBD to Werribee station, then catch bus 439 Werribee South to the zoo.

When is the best time to visit?
Arriving early in the day is best to avoid crowds and see animals at their most active. Weekends and school holidays tend to be busier.

Is there free entry for children?
Children under 16 enter free on weekends, Victoria school holidays, and public holidays. Children 3 years and under always enter free.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. There are picnic areas where you can enjoy your own lunch. The Meerkat Bistro also offers fresh, reasonably priced meals if you prefer dining on-site.

Is the zoo accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the entire zoo is wheelchair accessible, including the guided safari tour.

Are there any additional costs?
While the main ticket covers most activities, extras like behind-the-scenes tours are available for an additional fee. Some reviewers recommend booking these in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Wear sun protection, carry water, and bring a hat or sunglasses—especially in summer.

In all, Werribee Open Range Zoo stands out as a thoughtfully designed, engaging wildlife experience just outside Melbourne. With its naturalistic habitats, talented guides, and accessible facilities, it offers a rewarding day for anyone eager to see animals in a setting that feels more like the wild than a cage. It’s a smart choice for families and wildlife buffs alike looking for a memorable, reasonably priced adventure.

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