Werribee Open Range Zoo (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
What makes it 90% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, nursing room, stroller hire and many change tables aid care; staff hold prams before the safari bus, so most exhibits remain reachable even if strollers stay in parking.
Positives:
- Free entry for babies: Children under 4 enter free, so you only pay for two adults.
- Pram-friendly paths: Most walkways and indoor spaces welcome strollers.
- Baby facilities: Parent’s Room with change tables and bottle warmer is next to play area.
Challenges:
- No on-bus prams: You must leave strollers in the pram parking before the safari tour.
- Limited baby-specific activities: Paid animal encounters are for older children; check with staff before booking.
- Weather exposure: Open savannah areas have little shade; bring sun protection.
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 with baby?
- Hop on the free safari bus for up-close wildlife views
- Enjoy pram-friendly play zones and a cosy Parent’s Room
- Explore a gentle trail through shaded woodlands
- Cool off in a shallow water play zone during summer
- Catch short, baby-friendly animal talks
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for a safari bus ride, indoor play, and walking trails without tiring the baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Werribee Open Range Zoo
Free Safari Bus:
Join the 40-minute guided tour across the open savannah to spot giraffes, zebras and rhinos.
Tip: Board early for a front-row view and park your pram in the secure area before boarding.
Ranger Kids Indoor Play:
Let your baby explore soft toys and a sensory wall in a shaded, quiet space.
Tip: Use the nearby Parent’s Room for quick nappy changes and bottle warming.
Bush Babies Adventure Trail:
Walk a gentle, pram-friendly path through low woodland to see small native animals.
Tip: Bring your stroller and a sun hat; the trail has shaded rest benches.
Hippo Beach Water Play:
Splash in shallow jets and dig in the sandpit under shade sails.
Tip: Pack a change of clothes and a light towel; check at entry if play zones are active.
Keeper Animal Talks:
Watch short presentations at hippo and giraffe enclosures.
Tip: Grab a seat 5 minutes before start and chat with keepers afterwards about baby-safe viewing spots.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Arrive at opening: Beat the crowds and secure a front seat on the first safari bus.
- Plan around naps: Visit indoor play and Parent’s Room near lunchtime for a calm break.
- Check talk times online: Build your route around keeper talks to minimize walking with the pram.
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)?
In summer, splash areas run from 10 AM–4 PM. In cooler months, dress in layers for the open-top safari bus.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Two adult tickets | AUD 79.9 |
| Lunch for three | AUD 45 |
| Optional pram hire | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 144.9 |
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
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Werribee Open Range Zoo (Melbourne)?
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.
Website
Official WebsiteExplore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with baby
🇺🇸 United States, with baby
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with baby
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!