Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo is considered to be one of the world's most beautiful zoos
A fun 12 minute ferry ride across Sydney Harbour lands you right at beautiful Taronga Zoo. The name Taronga means beautiful view and is certainly appropriate. The zoo is located on a 52 acre site situated right on the north side of the harbour across from downtown Sydney.
Taronga Zoo first opened in 1916 replacing the first zoo in New South Wales that opened in Moore Park in 1884. The concept was to avoid bars and create a more natural environment for the animals. Today the zoo continues with a tradition of conservation and education. It is the first zoo in Australia to successfully breed an elephant and the second to breed a platypus. You can see, photograph and even interact with some of the 2600 animals representing 340 species. Zoo keepers hold interesting talks throughout the day.
For even more spectacular views you can enjoy a ride on the gondola which carries you above the zoo from the Ferry Wharf to the Main Entrance. Since you will probably want to spend the better part of a day here you can get something to eat form Bakhits's Cafe which has a regular dining area or take-out. You can also pack you own picnic lunch taking advantage of the picnic and BBQ facilities located around the Zoo's walking circuit.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes.Taronga Zoo Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia
Phone: (02) 9969 2777
Official Website: Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo Reviews
Rated out of 5
Such a gorgeous zoo with beautiful views of the Sydney skyline and harbour. Ferries frequently go to the zoo from circular quay wharf, and there is also parking at the zoo. The zoo is non-profit and has a focus on raising awareness for conservation of the animals. For example eating fish that is caught sustainably or choosing palm oil that is ethically sourced. They have paper maps as well as an app which tells you what time the zoo keeper talks are, which are all very interesting and educational. They have free water filling stations so recommend bringing a water bottle, and the zoo is pretty child friendly especially if you have a stroller.
Alfred Tao - 2 weeks ago
It was the most amazing day of my life . The zoo is huge and spacious. If you love walking then you'll love it. The zoo gives forest vibes,chipping of birds and also i got to see a peacock 🦚 walking along the pavement. The bush turkey 🦃 and many more local birds . Note : bring a water bottle and your snacks . There are shops and restaurants available. And not forgetting your hats . I couldn't click pictures of all animals but there are a lot of them .
Hetali Lata - 2 weeks ago
We had an incredible day at Taronga Zoo with the family! My 8-year-old son absolutely loved it, especially the interactive seal show and the giraffes. The zoo is beautifully situated with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, and the enclosures are spacious and well-designed. It was clear that the animals are well cared for, which made the experience even better. The Sky Safari was a big hit for all of us—it added a fun, unique touch to the visit. Highly recommend for families looking for a memorable day out!
pritiprabha sahoo - a month ago
It is nice place where you can relax a little bit from crowded Sydney. The garden is not so big, but the animals are nice and cared. There are nice views on the city. I recommend the ferry from Circular Quay which takes you around Opera directly to the Zoo and then for older children the Wild Ropes in ZOO which is pretty adventurously.
Denisa Dokulilová - a month ago
Wow! This zoo is one of the best I’ve ever been to! The habitats and animals are amazing, the staff are all so kind and helpful, and the park itself is so beautiful and clean! Plus, the Australian animals are really spot lit and there’s a lot of reference to First Nations cultures and languages which was really cool and educational! I love this place!!
Hannah Jean DeVore - a week ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3, or T8 + Ferry F2 | Circular Quay | 1 minute |
How to get to Taronga Zoo by
By Train and Ferry: Make your way to Circular Quay Station by Train or Bus and board the F2 Taronga Zoo Ferry which usually operates out of Wharf 2. This is an enjoyable 12 minute ferry ride that departs every 30 minutes at 10 and 50 minutes past the hour on weekdays and every 20 minutes at 0, 20 and 40 minutes past the hour on weekends. Exit the ferry and follow the walkway around the perimeter of the cul-de-sac to the stairs or elevator up to the zoo entrance.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Taronga Zoo:
Photo Gallery
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Gondola from the Ferry Wharf at Taronga Zoo cc licensed photo by BeauGiles -
Ape on a rope! cc licensed photo by Robert Linsdell -
Careful - you are being watched cc licensed photo by Andy Tyler -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr
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