Werribee Open Range Zoo (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Werribee Open Range Zoo?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can easily join the free 40-min safari bus, drop into keeper talks, and book small-group behind-the-scenes tours, with level paths and onsite cafés ensuring a smooth independent day.
Positives:
- Social Safari: Free guided tours group you with other visitors, helping you meet fellow travelers.
- Photo Opportunities: Open vehicles and low fences give clear views for solo photography.
Challenges:
- Remote Location: The zoo is 40 km from central Melbourne; plan car or shuttle transport.
- Booking Required: Popular paid experiences often sell out; book online in advance.
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?
- Free 40-minute Safari Bus tour to see giraffes, rhinos and zebras
- Drop into keeper talks for insider animal facts
- Join small-group behind-the-scenes tours to meet staff and animals
- Early arrivals beat the heat and crowds on open-vehicle safaris
- Easy to meet other travelers on group activities
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Spending 2-3 hours lets you take the free Safari Bus, attend animal talks and join one paid tour without rush.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Werribee Open Range Zoo
Free Safari Bus:
Join a 40-minute guided open-vehicle tour across the savannah to spot giraffes, zebras and rhinos.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before departure to secure a front-row seat.
Keeper Animal Talks:
Drop in on scheduled talks at elephant, hippo and cheetah enclosures.
Tip: Check the daily timetable at the entrance and plan your route around these times.
Ranger Mystery Tour:
Small-group behind-the-scenes tour of animal care areas.
Tip: Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
Australian Experience:
Up-close meeting with koalas and kangaroos with solo photo opportunities.
Tip: Wear neutral colors to help animals feel calm during the encounter.
When is the best time to visit Werribee Open Range Zoo (Melbourne, Australia)?
In summer, start tours early to avoid heat. Bring sun protection and water. In winter, check tour times as late-afternoon safaris may be shorter.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Werribee Open Range Zoo (Melbourne)
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...
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission | AUD 46.95 |
| Ranger Mystery Tour | AUD 30 |
| Snack at Hippo Beach Café | AUD 12 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 88.95 |
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
How to Maximize Your Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Morning Start: Arrive at opening to join the first Safari Bus when animals are most active.
- Plan Talks: Check the daily schedule online and map out animal talks to fit your tour.
- Download Map: Save the zoo map on your phone to navigate between exhibits quickly.
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 WebsiteAverage price
Explore Popular Things to Do
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!
Average price