More about Taronga Zoo Sydney
For animal lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Taronga Zoo is an iconic Aussie attraction that’s not to be missed. Located on the shore of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world — from cuddly koalas to exotic lions and elegant giraffes. More than just a normal day at the zoo, you’ll see sparkling views of the Sydney skyline, have the chance to go on behind-the-scenes experiences, and have the opportunity to hear the captivating stories of Taronga Zoo and its friendly residents from knowledgeable and passionate keepers. It’s your invitation to connect with wildlife, get up close and personal with your favourite Aussie animals, while also learning about Taronga Zoo’s conservation efforts. Blending education with exploration and adventure, Taronga Zoo is a must-visit for first-time visitors and locals alike.
What to expect at Taronga Zoo
With a short and scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay, you’ll get to Taronga Zoo. Expect beautifully themed habitats, engaging keeper talks, and wildlife presentations and shows. Plus, thanks to its central location, you’ll get to look back at the dazzling Sydney city skyline as an added bonus.
General admission to Taronga Zoo includes full zoo access, including entry to experiences, keeper talks, and shows. Just make sure you check the show times and plan your day around the zoo accordingly.
Animals you can see at Taronga Zoo
Home to critters big and small from all around the world, here’s a sample of what you can see up close at Taronga Zoo in Sydney:
- Australian animals: Koalas, kangaroos, dingos, wallabies, emus, platypus, cassowaries and little penguins
- African animals: Lions, giraffes, zebras, meerkats, gorillas, chimpanzees and pygmy hippopotamuses
- Asian animals: Tigers, sun bears, red pandas
Best time of year to visit Taronga Zoo
As a lot of the attractions at Taronga Zoo are outdoors, you’ll want to go on a sunny day (but probably when it’s not scorching hot). Spring and autumn are great times to visit Taronga Zoo, as the weather isn’t too hot or too cold. Plus, they also fall within the shoulder seasons, so there are fewer tourists, too.
Summer is booked, busy, and hot at Taronga Zoo. Coinciding with peak travel seasons around December and January, as well as the peak of summer in Australia. If you do visit during summer, make sure you bring plenty of water and stay sunsmart.
Our tips for visiting Taronga Zoo
- Arrive early or in the morning: Animals at Taronga Zoo are most active in the morning, so why not beat the midday crowds and get there early to see all the action?
- Plan your day around key shows and presentations: Make sure you factor in walking time to key presentations, and plan your day (and route) accordingly.
- Buy tickets online: Buying your tickets online can offer discounts, especially with combo deals with transport/ferry tickets.
- Check out Traveloka deals for discounts: Want to find even more deals? Check Traveloka’s deals page to see if there are any seasonal promotions before you book your ticket online.
- Catch a ferry from Circular Quay: Scenic and efficient. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House as you arrive at Taronga Zoo. There isn’t a more scenic route to Taronga Zoo than this one!
- Pack a picnic: There are cafes and food available at Taronga Zoo; however, there are also great picnic spots to rest during the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes: In case you didn’t know, you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking around the zoo to get to different habitats and exhibits. Wearing comfy sneakers will go a long way.
- Bring sun protection and water: As mentioned, many attractions and habitats at Taronga Zoo are outdoors, so make sure you bring a sunhat, reapply sunscreen often, and take breaks in shade/indoors when you can. Australia’s summer heat is no joke!
- Visit midweek or outside school holidays: Want to avoid crowds? Plan your Taronga Zoo visit midweek, and definitely outside of the school holidays.
Taronga Zoo’s location and how to get there
Taronga Zoo is in Mosman, just across the Sydney Harbour from the city. As mentioned, one of the easiest (and scenic) ways to get there is by ferry.
- Ferry: Take a 12-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo wharf.
- Bus: Prefer travelling on land? Catch a bus from the city directly to the zoo entrance. Bus routes 100 or 238 are popular ones from the city.
- Car: You can drive there too, with on-site paid parking available.
Love Taronga Zoo? Here are a few other things to do in Sydney, we think you’d love
- SEA Life Sydney Aquarium: Conveniently located in Darling Harbour, SEA Life is home to over 12,000 marine animals, including dugongs, penguins, and sharks.
- WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo: Just next door to SEA Life, Wild Life Sydney Zoo is another zoo to visit where you’ll find kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, wombats, and more.
- Koala Park Sanctuary: A bit further out from Sydney’s CBD, Koala Park Sanctuary is located in West Pennant Hills — 30 minutes north of the city. If cuddly koalas are your goal, this is hands-down one of the best places to meet them.
- Symbio Wildlife Park: Around an hour down south from Sydney CBD, Symbio Wildlife Park offers an Australian wildlife experience like no other. You can roam freely with kangaroos, and even get up close for a cheeky selfie.
