Oct 20

Melbourne Zoo

Updated: Oct 27

Melbourne Zoo ~ Victoria

Melbourne Zoo, established in 1862, is Australia’s oldest zoo. It has more than 300 species of native and exotic animals.

It is only minutes from the city centre and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year, including public holidays.

The easiest way to the zoo from the city is on the number 58 tram. Hop off at stop 26, and then it's a short walk to the Rail Gate entrance, where you can purchase tickets and enter the zoo.

The Melbourne Zoo has several different habitats, and we started the day at the Gorilla Rainforest.

Gorilla Rainforest

We wandered onto Lemur Island, where we saw the Ring-Tailed and Black and White Ruffled Lemurs wandering around and enjoying a few snacks.

Then, we watched the Western Lowland Gorillas in their huge enclosure. Due to habitat loss, Western Lowland Gorillas have been declared critically endangered.

The pygmy hippopotamus is only half as tall as a normal hippopotamus, and the Melbourne Zoo is part of a breeding program for this endangered species.

We enjoyed watching the White Cheeked Gibbon and the Black-Handed Spider Monkeys playing in their enclosure.

Trail of the Elephants

Next, we wandered along the path through the bamboo on the Trail of the Elephants, where we saw the Asian Elephants.

We were glad we got to see the Asian Elephants as soon they will move to Werribee Open Range Zoo, where they will have much more room to roam around.

We also saw a Sumatran tiger in this habitat. Sumatran tigers are solitary animals that live alone. They are also excellent swimmers.

More than 600 butterflies from 13 different species live in the butterfly house, which is heated to 27 degrees year-round to provide the humidity that tropical butterflies need to flourish.

Then we saw an Orangatang high up in his enclosure, resting under his blanket, watching the crowds.

We enjoyed watching the Siamangs playing and swinging on their ropes.

Along the Main Trail, we watched the Giraffes eating leaves. When fully grown, a giraffe can be taller than 5 metres.

Australian Bush

You will see many native Australian animals in the Australian bush habitat. Koalas are mainly nocturnal and can spend 18 to 20 hours a day sleeping.

The Kangaroos at the Melbourne Zoo are from Kangaroo Island in South Australia. They have thick, dense fur to keep them warm.

Emus are the tallest and fastest native Australian birds. They can’t fly, but they can run up to 48 km an hour.

In The Great Flight Aviary is a selection of birds living in this lovely natural habitat.

Lion Gorge

In the Lion Gorge habitat, the lions were relaxing in the shade of the trees, and the Snow Leopard was cooling down under the misters in his enclosure.

Snow Leopards are one of the World’s most elusive and solitary animals, and their patterned coat helps them blend into their surroundings.

The Zoo’s second Sumatran Tiger is also in this habitat, and we got a great view of him as he approached the glass enclosure.

You can also see dingoes in this habitat. Dingoes are naturally shy animals with independent natures.

Wild Sea

The Wild Sea habitat is a fantastic area where you can see the seals underwater and watch the fish and seahorses.

Outside, you can watch the long-nosed fur seal swimming and doing tricks with the zoo attendants.

There are also little penguins in the outdoor area.

The Melbourne Zoo has some great open recreational areas, a historical carousel, and plenty of cafes where you can grab a drink or bite to eat.

Growing Wild

We loved watching the meerkats in the Growing Wild Habitat. The slender-tail meerkats spend most of the day foraging for food and playing, and one is always on lookout duty.

The zoo gift shop is at the main entrance. It offers a great selection of toys and gifts, and your purchases help save wildlife.