Werribee Open Range Zoo (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Couples gain a shared safari bus ride, optional sunset safari with cocktails and live African beats, quiet walking trails, and photo-friendly animal feeds, making it a relaxed yet memorable date outing.
Positives:
- Close Encounters: Open-range design lets you see animals at eye level from the bus or walking pathways.
- Couple-Friendly Tours: Small-group experiences feel private and let you learn together from expert keepers.
Challenges:
- Chilly Mornings: Open-air vehicles can be cold before midday; pack a light jacket.
- Event Availability: Special tours (Sunset Safari, Giraffe Experience) often require booking weeks ahead.
What is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
- A 225-hectare open-range zoo located 40 kilometres southwest of Melbourne that replicates African savannah habitats
- Home to free-roaming herds of giraffe, zebra, rhinoceros and cheetah across expansive grasslands
- An institution managed by Zoos Victoria dedicated to wildlife conservation, research and education
What is so special about Werribee Open Range Zoo for couple trip?
- Open-air African-style safari bus ride
- Romantic Sunset Safari with cocktails
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes animal encounters
- Free daily keeper talks for shared learning
- Casual on-site dining at Meerkat Bistro
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for a safari bus ride, a keeper talk and a behind-the-scenes experience without rushing
Couple-Friendly Activities in Werribee Open Range Zoo
Free Safari Bus Ride:
Join a 40-minute open-air bus tour across the savannah habitat.
Tip: Sit on the left side in morning light for better giraffe views and clearer photos.
Deluxe Safari Adventure:
Small-group guided drive with stops to photograph rhinos and zebras up close.
Tip: Book in advance online to secure a front-row seat on the trailer.
Sunset Safari:
Evening tour with African tunes, cocktails at Hippo Beach and optional BBQ buffet.
Tip: Reserve a table at the buffet early; summer Saturdays sell out fast.
Giraffe Experience:
One-on-one giraffe feeding and keeper Q&A behind the scenes.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to meet your guide and get the best feeding spot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Arrive Early: Start with the first Safari Bus to avoid midday crowds and catch animals at peak activity.
- Download the Map: Use the zoo’s app or map PDF to plan routes between exhibits and timed talks.
Reviews of Werribee Open Range Zoo
Rebeca Corripio Bort
Visited Werribee Zoo today with the kids and had a fantastic time overall! The open-range setting is beautiful, and it’s such a unique experience to see the animals in such spacious and natural-looking habitats. The safari tour was definitely a highlight for all of us. We would have loved to attend all the animal talks and keeper presentations, but unfortunately, due to the distances between area...
Leonardo Lesmes
We had an amazing time at Werribee Zoo. it's an excellent place to visit with family. The safari experience was definitely a highlight, and the wide open spaces are perfect for a relaxing picnic. We drove there, but we noticed that public transport is also available, which is great even though it's a bit far from the city. One thing we really appreciated was how well the zoo takes care of the a...
Yijian Ye
The zoo is a great place for visit! The animals roam in wide, open spaces, which makes the experience feel more natural and immersive. The Safari Tour is an absolute must — and it’s included in the ticket price! The guide was informative, friendly, and shared so much about the animals and conservation efforts. It’s perfect for both kids and adults. It would be better if the safari bus could spend...
Jessica Labiris
I LOVE this place! Definitely recommend becoming a member as you get access to 4 zoos across Victoria. I haven’t done it yet but next time we go we will for sure be doing the deluxe safari experience it looks incredible and only $54 for a member for 75 mins. It’s wild how up close you get to the giraffes and rhinos. So far we have loved the free bus ride! The new elephant area is stunning, it has...
Rachael Todd
Love this zoo. The new elephant enclosure is wonderful!! Great variety of animals. The kids had a great time. The Safari the is awesome too. My only gripe is the cafe situation. I know we are there for the animals BUT most of us like a hot drink on a cold day. The cafe was out of control busy. We waited 35 minutes for one coffee because it was so packed. I see an opportunity here for another machi...
When is the best time to visit Werribee Open Range Zoo (Melbourne, Australia)?
Summer: book the Sunset Safari for pink-sky cocktails. Winter: bring a windbreaker for open-air tours in the morning. Rainy days: head to indoor keeper talks and Meerkat Bistro.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General admission (2 adults) | AUD 94 |
| Deluxe Safari Adventure (2) | AUD 120 |
| Giraffe Experience (2) | AUD 178 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 392 |
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 Werribee Open Range Zoo
Address: K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030, Australia
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About Werribee Open Range Zoo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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