Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is considered to be one of the world's most beautiful zoos

That's one tall giraffe
That's one tall giraffe cc licensed photo by Shayan (USA)

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

Official Website: Taronga Zoo

Fee: Yes.

Open Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Tuesday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Thursday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Friday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Saturday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Sunday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Category: Zoos

Address: Bradleys Head Rd
Mosman New South Wales 2088
Australia

Phone: +61 2 9969 2777

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4.5 out of 5 4.5 Star Rating
Based on 190 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

5 Star Rating Are you in Sydney? Are you looking for something to do? Well, look no further! VISIT THE TARONGA ZOO! I know, I know. You're, like, but it's a zoo... And... Read More

Jennifer S. Jul-25-2023

4 Star Rating If you came to Sydney expecting to kangaroos roaming around everywhere, unfortunately you won't see any in the city. You have to leave the city and drive... Read More

Marlon T. Jun-27-2023

5 Star Rating The trip will start off with a ferry from Circular Quay to the zoo- it's a smooth ride with amazing views of the opera house, bridge and city. The Zoo... Read More

Katherine M. Sep-29-2023

Accommodations near Taronga Zoo:

Directions

Line Nearest Station Walking Time
L2, T2, T3, or T8 + Ferry F2Circular Quay1 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.

Load Interactive Map
Finding Your Route - Please Wait

Photo Gallery

Video


Visiting the Taronga Zoo

Visiting Sydney?
Here's why we use Booking.com for our hotel bookings.
Best Selection
Daily Deals
Price Matching
Pay at the Hotel
24/7 Support
Share on Pinterest
Share on Pinterest
Help us grow! Please Share
Thanks for Visiting!