Families can feed lions, tigers and bears, and walk with friendly dingoes at Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium. As one of the top wildlife attractions in the ACT, it’s home to both native and exotic animals, as well as marine and freshwater fish, reptiles and frogs.
There are so many ways to experience Canberra’s amazing combined zoo and aquarium, but here are seven of the best.
1. Family Wonders of Wildlife Tour
The five-hour Family Wonders of Wildlife Tour is undoubtedly the best, as kids can help provide food and enrichment to a whole variety of critters. This tour is designed particularly for families with younger children, encompassing the best of the zoo in a relaxed and safe atmosphere.
2. Animal Encounters
Perhaps you’ve dreamed of being up close and personal with some of the world’s most incredible wildlife? At the National Zoo & Aquarium, you can book an Animal Encounter to meet your favourite animals, including sun bears, cheetahs, giraffes, lions, lemurs and meerkats.
3. Meet a Cheetah
Kids 14 and over can even “Meet a Cheetah” at the NZA. During your experience, participants are in the same enclosure as the unrestrained cheetahs, with the chance to interact with one of these amazing cats! Don’t worry, you’ll have an experienced zookeeper by your side to share fascinating insights into these majestic animals.
4. Have a barbecue or picnic
If you’re heading to the zoo in Canberra, why not make a day of it? Grassed areas, picnic tables, and barbecues are all freely available to visitors. If you’re not keen to bring your own food, you can also grab lunch at the Jungle Vines Cafe, the Rhino Bistro or the Meerkat Snack Shack.
5. Adventureland playground
This is not your average playground – instead, kids can clamber and play on life-size fibreglass animal sculptures surrounded by tropical gardens. It’s so much fun, they may never want to leave!
6. Zoocation school holiday program
During the ACT school holidays, the Zoo runs the fun and educational Zoocation program where primary-schoolers take an active role caring for the wildlife. Qualified staff lead the junior zookeepers in daily themed activities, including preparing animals’ treats or toys, meeting (and even petting) some unique critters, and a whole lot of learning along the way.
7. Stay overnight at Jamala Wildlife Lodge
For the ultimate experience, book your accommodation at Jamala Wildlife Lodge, a luxury overnight safari at the National Zoo & Aquarium. Choose from one of three incredible accommodation options – Ushaka Lodge, Giraffe Treehouses and Jungle Bungalows – each with its own unique wildlife experience.
Top tips for visiting the National Zoo & Aquarium
What if it rains?
The National Zoo & Aquarium has an amazing raincheck policy – if it rains during your visit, you can get a voucher to come back for free! (Some conditions apply, like redeeming it within 14 days).
Opening image: Close encounters at the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra
