Werribee Open Range Zoo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 enjoy free weekend entry, playgrounds, water play, Ranger Kids indoor zone, child-pit stop toilets, and engaging keeper talks, while the safari bus keeps them seated and safely viewing wildlife.
Positives:
- All-Ages Appeal: Free bus tours and talks engage both toddlers and school-age kids.
- Built-In Play Zones: Multiple playgrounds and indoor play keep children busy between feeds.
Challenges:
- Walking Distances: Paths stretch over 225 acres—bring a stroller for younger kids.
- Limited Shade: Most safari areas are open-topped—apply sunscreen and wear hats.
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 kids?
- Guided safari bus lets families spot giraffes and rhinos up close
- Indoor and outdoor play zones suit ages 3–12 and give parents a break
- Animal encounters add up-close fun—book koala and kangaroo sessions early
- Water play at Hippo Beach is ideal for warm days and energetic kids
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for safari bus, animal talks and play areas without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Werribee Open Range Zoo
Free Safari Bus Tour:
Join a 40-minute open-vehicle drive to spot giraffes, zebras and rhinos across the savannah.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure seats; kids love asking the guide questions.
Ranger Kids Indoor Play:
Explore sensory walls, a toy helicopter and soft-seating for little ones.
Tip: Bring socks for indoor play; plan this after the morning bus tour for a rest break.
Hippo Beach Water Play & Playground:
Splash in shallow jets, dig in the sandpit and enjoy slides.
Tip: Pack swimwear, towel and spare clothes; check daily activation times at the entrance.
Australian Experience Encounter:
Cuddle a koala and hand-feed kangaroos in a supervised setting.
Tip: Book online in advance; arrive 15 minutes early so kids meet handlers before the session.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Early Arrival: Get to the park before opening to beat queues for the safari bus.
- Plan with Map: Download or grab a zoo map to hit key spots in an efficient loop.
- Pack Lunch: On-site dining can get busy—consider a picnic in shaded seating areas.
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 opens Hippo Beach splash play—bring swim gear. Spring keeper talks often feature baby animals. Winter mornings are cool with fewer crowds. Check play-area hours before arrival.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult entry | AUD 100 |
| 2 Child entry | AUD 50 |
| Meals & snacks | AUD 80 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 230 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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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