Taronga, the oldest and largest zoo in Sydney. The zoo is located about 20-30 minutes away from the city centre by car, and there are also various transportation options available. The zoo is quite large, with over 350 different species of animals!
Here you can see iconic Australian animals such as koalas, giraffes, gorillas, and more! The scenery is also spectacular, as you can enjoy a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from within the zoo which makes it a great place for taking photos for your Instagram!
Getting to Taronga Zoo
After getting off the ferry at Circular Quay, you can take the zoo’s free shuttle bus or bus route 238 to reach the main entrance. Remember to take a map with you and plan your route based on the opening hours of each area to save time and energy, and to avoid missing any shows.
There are two entrances here. The main entrance is located uphill, so it is recommended to take the bus directly and explore the zoo from the top down. You can exit from the lower entrance, which is downhill, and it’s just a 5-minute walk to the ferry terminal!
What to do at Taronga Zoo
Birds in Flight Show
There are shows at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm. It’s a fantastic performance! They showcase various bird species and some unique shows. The owl was particularly good as they are so adorable! (The performance area offers a great view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, perfect for photos!)
Seals for the Wild
Shows at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm (April only), and 2:00 pm. It’s a show worth watching, but be prepared for a large crowd. It’s best to arrive early and get in line. Friends sitting in the front may get splashed by the seals!
Must-see animals at Taronga Zoo
Giraffes: If you’re lucky, you can see the staff feeding them carrots up close.
Koalas: They are really lazy! When we first arrived, they were napping, but we were lucky to see them awake and climbing slowly. They are super cute.
Kangaroos: The kangaroos seem quite slim, hopping around. There are small animals along the way. If you have enough time, you can see them all!
Please note that there is an additional fee for the Koala Keeper Talk.
Address and Tickets
Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
Tickets: Full price $49, student ticket $39. Remember to bring your student card! On-site payment is card only!
Opening hours: 9:30am-4:30pm (May-Aug) 9:30am-5:00pm (Sept-Apr) 9:30am-4:00pm (New Year’s Eve)
Extra Tips!
Make sure you download the Taronga Zoo app in advance for animal show times and maps. It is recommended to depart early!
There is a food market in the park, but the variety is limited and prices are high. It is recommended to bring water and necessary food for energy replenishment.
Wear sunscreen! Wear comfortable sports shoes and it’s best to bring an umbrella.