Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne

Nestled amidst the grasslands just 30 minutes from the heart of Melbourne, Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a unique opportunity to experience the savannah without leaving Australia. This sprawling zoo is dedicated to giving visitors a taste of the African wild, with open spaces that allow animals to roam in conditions similar to their natural habitats.

Spanning over 200 hectares, Werribee Open Range Zoo is home to some of the world's most iconic animals, including gorillas, lions, cheetahs, hippos, and zebras. One of the zoo's highlights is the Safari Tour, which takes guests on an adventure through the African savannah where giraffes, rhinoceroses, and antelopes can be seen grazing. This immersive experience is designed to educate visitors about wildlife conservation while providing up-close encounters with majestic creatures.

The zoo's commitment to conservation extends beyond the African animals. It also plays a vital role in local conservation efforts, participating in breeding programs for native endangered species such as the Eastern Barred Bandicoot.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is not just about observing animals; it's about engaging with them. The zoo offers a range of interactive experiences, such as the 'Ranger Kids' play space where children can learn about wildlife and conservation through play, and the 'Gorilla Behind the Scenes' encounter, which gives insight into the lives of their Western Lowland Gorillas.