Australia's Most Famous Zoos: Discover Native Wildlife with Australian Custom Tours
Australia Zoo (Queensland)
Australia is renowned for its unique and diverse wildlife, much of which can’t be found anywhere else in the world. If you're fascinated by Australia's native animals, visiting the country’s top zoos is the perfect way to encounter these creatures up close. From kangaroos to koalas, wombats to Tasmanian devils, Australia's zoos are home to an impressive variety of native species. With Australian Custom Tours, you can include visits to these famous zoos as part of your personalised itinerary, allowing you to explore Australia’s incredible fauna while immersing yourself in nature and conservation efforts.
1. Australia Zoo (Queensland)
Australia Zoo, founded by Steve Irwin, is one of the best places to see native Australian wildlife. Located just north of Brisbane, the zoo focuses heavily on conservation and education about Australia's unique species. Visitors can expect to encounter some of the country's most iconic animals, including:
Kangaroos: Stroll through the zoo’s Kangaroo Heaven and hand-feed these friendly marsupials.
Koalas: Cuddle up to a koala and learn more about their habits and conservation.
Crocodiles: Witness live crocodile feeding shows in the famous Crocoseum, where you'll see the power and agility of these prehistoric creatures.
Wombats, Dingoes, and Echidnas: Get close to these native animals and learn about their roles in Australia’s ecosystem.
Australia Zoo places a strong emphasis on conservation and the protection of endangered species, making it an educational experience as well as a fun adventure for visitors of all ages. Australian Custom Tours can include a visit to Australia Zoo as part of a broader exploration of Queensland, combining wildlife experiences with the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas.
2. Taronga Zoo (Sydney, New South Wales)
Situated along Sydney’s beautiful harbour, Taronga Zoo is home to a remarkable collection of native Australian animals. With a focus on conservation and education, the zoo offers many opportunities to see these creatures up close while learning about their habitat, behaviour, and the efforts to protect them. Some of the native species you can expect to encounter include:
Platypus: One of Australia’s most unique creatures, the platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that lays eggs and is a symbol of the country's diverse wildlife.
Tasmanian Devils: These feisty marsupials are a favourite among visitors, and Taronga Zoo participates in efforts to conserve the species from extinction.
Emus and Cassowaries: These large, flightless birds are distinctive parts of Australia’s landscape. While the emu is found in many parts of the country, the cassowary is a rare and endangered species.
Quokkas and Wallabies: Smaller marsupials that are native to Australia, quokkas are particularly famous for their photogenic smiles, and wallabies are often spotted hopping through the zoo’s bush habitats.
Taronga Zoo also runs a successful breeding program for endangered Australian species, and offers immersive experiences, such as the "Roar and Snore" overnight stay, where you can camp within the zoo and wake up to the sounds of native animals. Australian Custom Tours can make Taronga Zoo a part of your Sydney itinerary, giving you the chance to explore not only the wildlife but also other iconic attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
3. Melbourne Zoo (Victoria)
Melbourne Zoo is not only the oldest zoo in Australia, but it also offers one of the most comprehensive experiences for seeing native Australian animals. Located just a short distance from Melbourne’s city centre, the zoo’s immersive habitats allow visitors to experience the diverse ecosystems that Australia’s wildlife call home. Some of the native animals you’ll encounter include:
Koalas and Kangaroos: The zoo’s Australian Bush section features koalas perched in eucalyptus trees and kangaroos lounging on the grass, giving visitors a glimpse into their natural behaviour.
Little Penguins: These adorable birds are native to the southern coasts of Australia and can be seen swimming and waddling around in their specially designed exhibit.
Brolgas: These elegant Australian cranes are often spotted in the wetland areas of the zoo.
Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombats: These burrowing marsupials are a favourite for visitors, known for their nocturnal habits and strong sense of smell.
Melbourne Zoo is also committed to conservation, running programs that protect native species like the Leadbeater’s possum and the eastern barred bandicoot. Australian Custom Tours can combine your Melbourne Zoo visit with other local experiences, such as a day trip to the Yarra Valley or a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, giving you a full cultural and wildlife experience.
Why Choose Australian Custom Tours?
With Australian Custom Tours, you can explore Australia’s native wildlife in a personalised and immersive way. Each tour is fully customisable, allowing you to choose the experiences that best suit your interests and travel preferences. Whether you’re passionate about kangaroos, fascinated by wombats, or eager to see a platypus in person, Australian Custom Tours can design an itinerary that includes visits to Australia’s top zoos.
Beyond the wildlife experiences, Australian Custom Tours provides access to private drivers, exclusive accommodation, and seamless transport arrangements, so you can enjoy your holiday without the stress of planning. From single-day zoo visits to multi-day wildlife adventures, Australian Custom Tours offers unparalleled flexibility, making sure you have the opportunity to connect with Australia’s unique fauna while also enjoying the country’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and world-class hospitality.
For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Australia’s zoos is an unmissable part of any trip. With Australian Custom Tours, you can be sure your wildlife adventure is part of a broader, expertly curated Australian experience, ensuring your holiday is both memorable and meaningful.