Plan your visit to Melbourne Zoo
Guided excursions are age-appropriate and link to the relevant curriculum (VEYLDF, F-10, VCE).
Our education programs connect young people with different species from across the globe. Expert educators will help them build their understanding of different animals, explore real-life issues and think about how to take action for conservation.
You will need the following to book your excursion:
- Education program of your choice
- Preferred excursion date
- School name and address
- Contact details of organising teacher
- Number of students/classes and their year level
Costs and supervision ratio
Education programs are FREE with zoo admission.
Make sure you book this in advance. All bookings must be made at least two weeks prior to your visit.
| Education level | Admission cost (includes education program) | Adult-student ratio |
| Early Childhood Centres and Kindergartens | $19 | 1 for every 3 children |
| Foundation to Grade 2 | $19 | 1 for every 5 students |
| Grade 3 to Year 12 | $19 | 1 for every 10 students |
| Tertiary | $29 | 1 for every 10 students |
| Student from Special Development School (SDS) |
$5 | 1 carer/ integration aid per student with special needs |
Please note: The minimum number of students for an education program is 12. Prices are in Australian dollars and are valid from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019. Zoo memberships are not valid for school, early childhood centre and kindergarten visits.
Cost for teachers
Teachers and adult helpers are admitted free of charge within the program's recommended student to adult ratio. Additional teachers and adult helpers receive a reduced adult concession price of $29.00.
Payment and cancellation
The following payment methods are accepted:
- Cash or credit card
Payment can be made on the day by cash or credit card. A tax receipt will be issued. - Invoice
We can invoice you after your visit.
Zoos Victoria’s ABN is 969 139 590 53.
Payment must be made in one transaction and will be based on the number of students and adults visiting the Zoo on the day.
Cancellation of an excursion must be made at least 10 business days prior to your booked visit.
If not, a cancellation fee of $200 will be invoiced.
The fee will be waived if the cancellation is due to inclement weather or if the booking is rescheduled.
Self-guided
To lead your own excursion, see our Keeper Talks
Animal experiences
Our animal experiences allow time for discussing and observing animals, interpreting their behaviours and considering their wellbeing. Students can get close to the animals, but we ask that no-one touches the Zoo wildlife during these experiences. It's safer and more relaxing for everyone that way!
Zoos Victoria's philosophy for animal welfare provides animals with choices. When we develop animal visitor experiences, our animals have the choice to participate or not, which supports positive animal welfare outcomes.
Weather
Please ensure students dress appropriately for all outdoor weather conditions. If extreme weather is predicted, please reschedule.
Getting here
Before you visit
- Watch the video above with your children or students
- Use our Teaching Resources to give your curriculum a boost
- Visit the Student Hub to do any research and find out more about the animals at Melbourne Zoo
Need some special documents for your school? You can download our Risk Management Policy (PDF or Word versions) Certificate of Currency for any insurance requirements, as well as our Child Safe Standards of Commitment.
When you arrive
Pavilions are available near the Rail Gate Entrance to leave bags and/or lunches. Ensure all food is secured in bags or lunchboxes (or our native wildlife may decide to help themselves). Please take your valuables with you.
Check out our online map for mobile devices. You can also collect a printed map.
Staff and volunteers are also there to help you find your way around the Zoo
Terms and conditions of entry apply. Please consider the following guidelines:
- Children and students remain the responsibility of the teacher at all times
- Groups are asked to move through the Zoo respectfully and consider animals and members of the public
- Students and adult helpers should understand the needs of the animals and behave accordingly – loud noises and sudden movements can upset the animals. For this reason, ball games and whistles are not permitted