Kids are FREE these school holidays!

We are excited to announce that from 1 July, 2011 children under 16 years of age will receive free admission to; Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo; on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays. Find out more.

'Wild Nights' - are you brave enough?
Werribee Open Range Zoo wants to know if you're brave enough to venture into the Zoo at night during the upcoming winter school holidays.

Following the enormous sucess of last year's night zoo, Wild Nights returns from Saturday 2 July until 16 July inclusive.

Bring a torch and explore the African river Trail where lions, hippos, African Wild Dogs and cheetah play. Be inspired by our African drummer and fire dancer, toast marshmallows around our campfires and listen to tales about life in the wilds of Africa.

Be the first to see the "Serval Under the Stars" presentation as amazing African Cats leap, hunt and climb in a new outdoor presentation area which has no cage or glass between you and the action.

You can also visit our new nocturnal house which is home to a great variety of ‘night animals' - including the endangered Eastern Barred Bandicoot, possums and other "creepy critters."

Other activities include groovy 'glow in the dark' toys and a dance party for the kids. There is also hot and hearty winter food available.

Be brave, rug up and venture into the night! It's zoo fun like never before! Nightly between 5.30pm and 8.30pm.

The zoo is open during the day also, as per usual.

 

Time

5.30pm - 8.30pm. (Zoo closes 9.00pm)

  • Zoo entry closes at 7.00pm
  • Walking trails close at 8.30pm
DateSaturday 2 July until 16 July, 2011 inclusive
CostNormal zoo admission prices apply.
See Planning Your Visit (for all prices).

Day visitors can purchase a $10 upgrade 
for Wild Nights (for one visit only).
Special Events 
  • ‘Serval under the stars' presentations at 6.30pm & 7.15pm.
  • Lion talks held every 30 mins.
  • Fire Dancer & African Drummer performing between 5.30pm - 8.30pm in the front entrance precinct.
  • Campfire storytelling and marshmallow toasting from 5.30pm - 8.30pm at Xero's hut fire pit.
  • Marshmallow toasting also available at African Village.
  • Village kids 'dance party' and kids ‘Glow in the Dark' activity areas in the African Village.
  • A nocturnal house with Eastern Barred Bandicoots, a Ring Tail Possum, Sugar Glider, Tawny Frogmouth and frogs.
     
Restrictions 
  • Covered shoes must be worn
  • Warm clothing is recommended
  • Bring your camera to capture the moment
  • All participants must agree to follow staff instructions
  • Please BYO torches. Torches will be available in the Safari Shop for purchase.
How to book

No booking is required

fire sticks
camp fire

Keeper for a Day

If you are keen to find out what it takes to work in a zoo, caring for the
amazing array of different animals, then come out to Werribee Open
Range Zoo these school holidays.

You will go behind-the-scenes, taking part in many daily duties of a zookeeper, which
could include: animal feeds, animal enrichment, health checks and plenty of animal contact.
You will also get to go on a private safari tour with a difference and have the
opportunity to speak with zookeepers about their jobs and experience. Be prepared
for the smell, sweat and of course, the fun of it all!

Find out more 


Be Loud and Proud!

African sculpture and instrument

Check out our new African musical sculpture which is great fun for all ages. Made from all kinds of recycled materials, this giant instrument is perfect for letting off some steam. It's located near the African Huts, close to the front entrance.


Enjoy unlimited year round access
Help save threatened species
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