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Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, solo trip

National Zoo & Aquarium (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is National Zoo & Aquarium?

86%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: The 2.6-km flat circuit, frequent keeper talks, and optional short animal encounters keep a solo visitor busy, yet paths and cafés feel safe and easy to navigate alone.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 5,283 reviews)
Exploring Wildlife Wonders: The National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra
32 min
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Exploring Wildlife Wonders: The National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra
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Positives:

  • Interactive Learning: Keeper talks let you engage directly and ask questions.
  • Flexibility: Self-guided trails let you set your own pace and focus on your interests.
  • Cafe Spots: Multiple dining areas provide rest points and views over exhibits.

Challenges:

  • Advance Bookings Needed: Animal encounters often sell out—reserve online before arrival.
  • Extensive Walking: The site covers 2.6 km of trails—wear comfortable shoes and plan rest stops.
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🏖️ Explore National Zoo & Aquarium with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Zoo & Aquarium. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Zoo & Aquarium?

  • A 25-acre wildlife sanctuary combining an open-range zoo with a walk-through marine aquarium on Canberra’s lakeside shore
  • Home to over 700 animals spanning native Australian fauna and exotic species, including big cats, primates and aquatic life
  • A conservation and research facility engaging in breeding programs for endangered species and advancing wildlife science

What is so special about National Zoo & Aquarium for solo trip?

  1. Attend daily keeper talks for up-close learning
  2. Explore the 2.6 km flat trails and marine aquarium tunnel
  3. Book animal encounters for personalized zoo interactions
  4. Relax at on-site cafes with views of exhibits
  5. Enjoy a self-paced visit tailored to solo travelers

Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours

Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time for main exhibits, keeper talks, and a quick café break.

(View National Zoo & Aquarium on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in National Zoo & Aquarium

Daily Keeper Talks:

Watch animal feedings and ask questions at scheduled keeper talks.

Tip: Check the zoo’s daily schedule online and arrive five minutes early for front-row spots.

Self-Guided Walks:

Follow flat trails through open-range exhibits and the marine aquarium tunnel at your own pace.

Tip: Download the zoo map PDF to plan your route and avoid backtracking.

Short Animal Encounters:

Join 15–30 minute experiences like Curious Creatures or Owl Encounters.

Tip: Book your spot online at least a day in advance to secure availability.

Jungle Vines Café Break:

Grab coffee, pies, or snacks next to Monkey Island at Jungle Vines Café.

Tip: Visit early or late afternoon to skip the lunch queue and sit by the water.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Zoo & Aquarium

  1. Buy Tickets Online: Purchase entry in advance on the zoo website to skip the ticket queue.
  2. Use Zoo Shuttle: Hop on the free shuttle bus to save walking and see distant exhibits.
  3. Time Your Talks: Plan your visit around keeper talk times to avoid missing popular sessions.
🏖️ Tour National Zoo & Aquarium like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Zoo & Aquarium. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Zoo & Aquarium

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Sampada

Sampada

Sep 2025

Had an amazing day at the National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra! The animals were well cared for and there’s such a great variety to see. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the enclosures are clean and spacious. Perfect for a fun family outing or a day with friends. Highly recommend!

Deana Bloom

Deana Bloom

Sep 2025

Visiting from Queensland. I love animals and make it a point to visit a zoo when I can. This zoo is amazing. It's clean and animals appear happy and cared for. We stayed for two nights in the lodge. This was a great experience. Food was fantastic and plentiful. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Just like a five star hotel. Everyone needs to visit at least once.

M L

M L

Aug 2025

The National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra is hands down one of the best zoos I’ve been to in Australia! The zoo is huge with an incredible range of animals, and what made it even better was the number of opportunities to get up close and interact with them. We went in with no expectations (it was a last-minute decision), but it turned out to be one of the best choices we made on our trip to Canberr...

Lindsey Tsuya

Lindsey Tsuya

Aug 2025

This place is magical. If possible you'll want to stay the night. We did the giraffe tree house! We were able to watch them from our balcony and feed them. This was over my anniversary and birthday 🎂 and they absolutely made it extra special. The service is top notch the guest experience is unforgettable. If I lived here I would make this a yearly event. It's top notch 💯 they made my anniversary...

The Comment Guy

The Comment Guy

Jul 2025

Awesome animals, but the exit had me questioning my life choices. The zoo itself is well-kept, with a great variety of animals and chill vibes throughout. Had a good time during the day — until it came time to leave. Finding the exit to Car Park 1 was surprisingly tricky. It was getting dark, the zoo was closing, and we were wandering around for over half an hour trying to figure it out. Imagin...

When is the best time to visit National Zoo & Aquarium (Canberra, Australia)?

Plan for Canberra’s weather: summer days can be hot—visit early and pack sun protection; winter mornings are cold—bring layers; spring is best for spotting newborn marsupials; autumn offers cooler walks and fewer crowds.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult general admissionAUD 50
Café snack and drinkAUD 10
Short animal encounterAUD 130
Total EstimatedAUD 190

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Zoo & Aquarium

Address: 999 Lady Denman Dr, Yarralumla ACT 2611, Australia

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About National Zoo & Aquarium

Opening Hours

Monday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 2 6287 8400

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