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

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 4.5 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating I visited Taronga Zoo today with my big family, and it was my second time there. This is definitely one of the must-do experiences in Sydney. The vibes were amazing! We went around midday, which isn’t really the ideal time to visit. If you want to see the animals more active and relaxed, it’s better to go either in the morning or later in the afternoon. That way, you’ll have a better chance of spotting most of them — including the lions. We did manage to see the lion, but only for a short while. The seal show was absolutely amazing — you can’t afford to miss it! The energy, tricks, and connection between the trainers and seals were so fun to watch. My kids absolutely loved it — from the animals to the shows, they were excited the whole time. It’s such a great place for families to spend the day together. It was so much fun overall — from boarding the ferry to the very last moment. I missed taking the cable car on the way back, which I really recommend because it offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. Such a great experience — can’t wait to go again!
Saurav PRASAIN - 2 weeks ago

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4 Star Rating Historic Zoo in a beautiful location. Very hilly but there are pram/wheelchair paths. I wished we saw the lions as they were quiet hidden. But I guess they domidnt want to be seen and I respect that. Gorilla's were my highlight of the day. And dont miss the seal show.
Tanya Murray - a week ago

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5 Star Rating It was great seeing all the animals. The views to Sydney harbour is an added bonus! Been here a few times already with friends and family and it’s a great activity. Highly recommend if you want to see a variety of zoo animals. The Gorilla was the highlight for me, just sitting there and eating calmly.
Annie Chen - in the last week

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5 Star Rating I am never a big of zoos since I had the stereotype that zoos are often smelly and dirty. Yet, Taronga Zoo successfully changed my perception towards zoos. It has a wide variety of animals from around the world, including native Australian wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses, as well as exotic animals such as elephants, giraffes, Sumatran tigers, gorillas, and meerkats. All zones in the zoo are very well preserved, hygienic and educational. We spent a full day here without feeling bored. At this spectacular location on the cliffs, we could even enjoy the iconic Sydney Harbour harbour views witnessing the beautiful sunset. It is suitable for people of all ages. It can be one of the key attractions you can spend a full day :)
Jason Kwong JK - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Came here a while back and can I just say, this was one of the most fun times I've had 'til this day. Having my mates obviously helped but just having a walk through the different enclosures with the variety of animals I didn't even know existed, truly cemented that visit into my memories. And the quality of life, accessible toilets, great food and drinks that weren't too far, and easy to read signs and maps to know where you even are.
Martin Brown - a week ago

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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.

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