Taronga Zoo Sydney
Harbourside zoo with stunning Sydney views, diverse wildlife, and a focus on conservation. Offers unique overnight stays and captivating animal shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better encounters
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better encounters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Harbourside zoo with stunning Sydney views, diverse wildlife, and a focus on conservation. Offers unique overnight stays and captivating animal shows.
"A must-visit for its breathtaking harbour views and commitment to wildlife conservation."
🚢 Ferry for Views
Take the ferry from Circular Quay for stunning harbour vistas on your way to the zoo.
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
The zoo is hilly! Wear comfortable shoes for exploring all the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seal Show Spectacle
Marine Mammal exhibit
Witness the incredible speed and agility of seals in a captivating water show. A must-see for all ages!
Sky Safari Gondola
Zoo entrance to upper levels
Soar above the zoo for breathtaking harbour views and a unique perspective of the animal enclosures.
Nocturnal Wildlife Retreat
Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo
Experience an overnight stay with unique glamping tents and guided night tours for a truly wild adventure.
Vivid Sydney Wild Lights
Various locations within the zoo
During Vivid Sydney, the zoo transforms into a magical wonderland with illuminated animal sculptures.
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Fun & Early Birds
Pack Smart, Save Big
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry for Views
Take the ferry from Circular Quay for stunning harbour vistas on your way to the zoo. +1
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
The zoo is hilly! Wear comfortable shoes for exploring all the exhibits.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
Save money by bringing your own food and drinks; zoo prices can be high.
🐦 Don't Miss Bird Show
The bird show is a highlight, showcasing amazing avian talent. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry for Views
Take the ferry from Circular Quay for stunning harbour vistas on your way to the zoo. +1
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
The zoo is hilly! Wear comfortable shoes for exploring all the exhibits.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
Save money by bringing your own food and drinks; zoo prices can be high.
🐦 Don't Miss Bird Show
The bird show is a highlight, showcasing amazing avian talent. +1
⏰ Arrive Early for Encounters
Popular animal encounters fill up fast; arrive early to secure your spot.
📸 Camera Ready!
Great photo opportunities, especially with the harbour backdrop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Taronga Zoo for its stunning harbour views, engaging animal shows, and commitment to conservation. Many highlight the unique overnight 'Roar & Snore' experience as a memorable adventure. Some find the food options pricey and the zoo's hilly terrain challenging.
"Sydney’s Taronga Zoo: A World-Class Destination with Mixed Impressions
Sydney’s Taronga Zoo is undoubtedly one of the world’s top destinations, offering visitors a unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
However, during my visit, I noticed a surprising absence — the towering kangaroos that are often used in global promotions for Australia.
Their absence leaves a noticeable gap, and only the zoo administration can explain the reason behind it.
The zoo also claims to operate on a “cashless system,” yet some of its facilities still require coins. For instance, the coin-operated telescopes, meant to give visitors panoramic views of Sydney, remain dependent on $2 coins. I personally tried several times to use them, but the machine repeatedly rejected the coins, leaving the experience incomplete and somewhat frustrating.
Despite these shortcomings, one highlight never disappoints: the Bird Show. This spectacle remains a must-see, held in a truly breathtaking setting with the ocean and lush greenery as its backdrop. Watching magnificent birds soar and perform against such a backdrop makes the experience magical every time.
Reaching the zoo itself is an adventure worth enjoying. A ferry ride from Circular Quay takes you across Sydney Harbour, with stunning city views throughout the journey. Once you arrive, the blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and Sydney’s iconic skyline makes the visit an unforgettable experience."
Sibte Arif
"Such a gorgeous zoo! Everything about it was amazing. If you plan on visiting, it is definitely a walk—but totally worth it! I especially loved the walk-in area where you can see a species of kangaroos up close—such a cool experience. The views throughout the zoo were also absolutely stunning. Highly recommend! 🦘🌿✨"
Alexya D’Ann
"If you’re ever in Sydney, whether it being your first time in Australia, do check this place out! The zoo is pretty big so you’ll probably spend a good amount of time here. The place is well maintained by the keepers and the animals are very well taken care of. Better yet, all the proceeds and money you’ll spend at the zoo whether it being the store or cafe, it all goes to the animals to help them even further. There’s giraffes, koalas, monkeys, foxes, seals and many more!
Oh and one more thing to add, I recommend buying tickets online as it is $10 cheaper than buying it physically"
Keane Wee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic and popular way is by ferry from Circular Quay, offering fantastic Sydney Harbour views. +1 Alternatively, you can take the 100 bus from the city (QVB or Wynyard) which is often quicker than the ferry.
Driving is an option, but parking can be expensive and difficult to find near Circular Quay.
The direct ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo typically takes around 12-15 minutes. Ferries that do a loop around Mosman Bay first will take longer.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be costly. Some visitors suggest parking further away and using public transport or Waze to find potentially cheaper spots.
Yes, bus route 100 runs regularly from the city (QVB) and is a convenient option to reach Taronga Zoo.
Absolutely! Taronga Zoo is very well-connected by public transport, with regular ferries from Circular Quay and bus routes from the city. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but general admission for adults is around $50 AUD. It's recommended to check the official Taronga Zoo website for the most up-to-date pricing and potential package deals, such as Sydney attraction passes.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially money. You can book directly through the Taronga Zoo website.
Look out for potential discounts through Sydney attraction passes or special promotions. Checking the zoo's website or third-party ticket vendors can reveal savings.
Taronga Zoo Sydney typically opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM daily. It's always best to verify the exact opening and closing times on their official website before your visit.
Many visitors find Taronga Zoo to be worth the cost, especially considering the conservation efforts and the stunning harbour views. It offers a good day out with diverse animals and shows.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend spending at least 2-3 hours, but a full day is ideal if you want to see everything and enjoy the shows. If you're an international visitor unfamiliar with Australian animals, a full day is recommended.
Don't miss the Australian native animals like kangaroos and koalas, the majestic elephants, and the playful seals. Keep an eye out for the unique Binturong!
Yes, Taronga Zoo hosts daily shows, including a popular bird show and seal show, along with various keeper talks throughout the day. Check the schedule upon arrival. +1
Absolutely! With its diverse animals and stunning harbour backdrop, Taronga Zoo offers fantastic photography opportunities.
The Sky Safari is a gondola ride that takes you from the lower to the upper parts of the zoo, offering spectacular views of the enclosures and Sydney Harbour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, food and drinks at the zoo can be quite pricey. Many visitors recommend bringing your own snacks and water to save money.
The zoo offers various dining outlets, and typically has options for different dietary needs, including vegetarian choices. It's best to check with the specific cafe or restaurant on the day.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted and a great way to manage your budget during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas overlooking Sydney Harbour offer iconic shots. Also, try to capture animals in their enclosures, especially during shows or feeding times.
While some enclosures have glass, many are designed to minimize barriers. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer better lighting and more active animals.
Drones are generally not permitted within zoo grounds to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. Always check the zoo's specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roar & Snore Experience
While it comes with a higher price tag, many visitors describe it as an unforgettable and magical experience.
Getting to Taronga Zoo: Ferry vs. Bus
The 100 bus is another popular choice, often considered a quicker option by locals.
Taronga Zoo's Conservation Efforts
Many visitors are impressed by the zoo's commitment to conservation, noting that it feels less like a traditional zoo and more like a sanctuary focused on animal welfare and education.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit