Taronga Zoo

Map & Directions
Photos & Video

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

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.

Closed 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 out of 5 4 Star Rating
Based on 183 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

"Someone told me it's all happening at the zoo..." --Simon and Garfunkel Katie and I usually do not hit up zoos on vacation because we have plenty to... Read More

Jason K. Jan-11-2023

We took a 12 min. ferry from Circular Quay to this busy harbor full of kangaroos, koalas & Australian animals with million dollar harbor views. Highlights... Read More

Andrea U. Nov-20-2022

This is certainly a must visit attraction in Sydney. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, or there are combination tickets available through Captain... Read More

Eric B. Jul-10-2022

Accommodations near Taronga Zoo:

Booking.com

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.