Werribee Open Range Zoo (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
What makes it 81% Solo-Friendly: The open-air safari, keeper talks, and optional small-group tours give single visitors engaging wildlife learning without needing companions, plus paths are easy to navigate alone.
Positives:
- Guided social experience: Free safari bus connects you with other travelers and a local guide.
- Varied activities: Mix of free and paid tours lets you tailor learning and photo opportunities.
- Close wildlife encounters: Small-group sessions offer one-on-one time with iconic species like koalas.
Challenges:
- Large walking distances: Enclosures are spread out; expect to walk 4–5 km if you skip the bus.
- Limited public transport: Zoo is 40 minutes from Melbourne; you need a car or tour shuttle to reach it.
- Weather exposure: Some paths lack shade; bring sun protection or rain gear depending on forecast.
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 solo trip?
- Hop on the free safari bus for instant orientation and social interaction.
- Attend animal talks for insider conservation stories.
- Join small-group tours like the Ranger Mystery Tour and Australian Experience for close encounters.
- Bring essentials—water, sun protection, and a camera—to optimize your solo visit.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for the free safari bus, animal talks, and one paid experience at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Werribee Open Range Zoo
Free Safari Bus:
Join a guided 40-minute tour on an open-topped bus across the zoo’s African savannah.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before departure at Safari Station and sit on the left for best giraffe views.
Animal Talks:
Drop in for keeper-led presentations at elephant, hippo and rhino enclosures.
Tip: Check the daily schedule on arrival and pick talks near your walking route to save time.
Ranger Mystery Tour:
Join a small-group back-of-house tour to see animal care areas and feed giraffes.
Tip: Book online at least 3 days in advance and wear closed shoes for walking behind enclosures.
Australian Experience:
Get up-close with koalas and kangaroos in a guided small-group session.
Tip: Bring a zoom lens or zoom phone camera for clear shots during the 20-minute encounter.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Plan around bus times: Use the free safari bus first to map out areas you want to explore on foot.
- Download the map: Get the zoo map from the website to mark enclosures and talk locations before arrival.
- Pack light: Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks to avoid long queues at cafes.
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, start early to avoid afternoon heat and carry water and sunscreen. In winter, wear layers as mornings can be chilly. Visit on weekdays outside school holidays to dodge crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult zoo entry | AUD 50 |
| Ranger Mystery Tour | AUD 30 |
| Coffee & snack | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 90 |
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, solo trip
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
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!