Taranga Zoo

Introducing Tairanga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is located in the wooded area of ​​Bailey Heads in Mosman. It is the largest zoo in Australia. It enjoys the beautiful scenery of Sydney Harbour. Sydney people often joke that the animals here live in the best manor in Sydney, which is why it has the title of "the most beautiful zoo in the world".

The zoo is nestled on a hilly peninsula on Sydney Harbour's north shore, diagonally across from the Sydney Opera House. Its location offers a prime vantage point for enjoying the stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features unique Australian mammals and reptiles, and offers animal shows at various times of the day. Due to its exceptional environment, it's often called the world's most beautiful zoo.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

186 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:30-17:00 (September to April)

9:30-16:30 (May to August)

9:30-16:00 (December 31)

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Most Popular FAQs for Taranga Zoo

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Taronga Zoo (Sydney) officially opened on 7 October 1916, replacing an earlier zoo in Moore Park. Its name “Taronga” is said to derive from an Aboriginal word meaning “beautiful view.” It has become one of Australia’s premier zoological institutions, combining conservation, education, research, and visitor experience. The zoo has been through major masterplans and expansions, such as the Wild Asia (Rainforest) precinct, Great Southern Oceans marine exhibits, and more recently Tiger Trek. It plays a prominent role in wildlife conservation, breeding programs, and public outreach.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Taronga Zoo is located on Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, on the shores of Sydney Harbour.
• From Sydney CBD: Take the ferry from Circular Quay (approx. 12 minutes) to the Taronga Zoo Wharf.
• From the ferry wharf, there is a lower-entrance path, or buses connect the wharf to the main upper entrance.
• Bus option: Route 100 (Mosman ↔ City) and route 238 (Balmoral ↔ Taronga Zoo) serve the zoo precinct.
• Driving: car parking is available (height limit ~2.1 m) with daily rates.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• The zoo is open daily.
• Summer hours (September–April): 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; Winter (May–August): 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
• Last admission is generally one hour before closing time.
• Best times: early morning just after opening, or later in the afternoon to avoid midday crowds. Also avoid hot midday hours for more comfortable walking.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

As of 1 July 2025, general admission rates are: Adult $55 (online $49.50), Concession $43 (online $38.70), Child (4–15) $33 (online $29.70), Infant under 4 is free. Tickets may be purchased online (discounted) or at the gate.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

You can often buy tickets on the day, but for special experiences (animal encounters, behind-the-scenes, etc.) or busy periods, booking in advance is recommended. There is no fixed “how far” published, but earlier booking helps secure spots.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit takes about 3 hours to see most exhibits; if you include animal encounters, relaxed meals, and shows, a half-day (4–5 hours) or more is ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Great Southern Oceans (marine life, seal/sea lion shows)
• Tiger Trek – Sumatran tiger exhibits
• Asian elephants (currently being phased out) / elephant mud baths (recently a highlight)
• Rainforest / Wild Asia (rainforest animals and immersive habitat)
• Chimpanzee Sanctuary, ape exhibits, red panda cubs
• Keeper talks, animal shows (e.g. seals)
• Scenic harbour views and landscapes throughout the zoo pathways.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Taronga offers guided and special experiences such as “Keeper for a Day,” behind-the-scenes tours, and animal encounters. The standard visitor experience includes staff-led keeper talks and shows in English. There is no widespread mention of multilingual audio guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Views from elevated pathways overlooking Sydney Harbour and the Ferries crossing.
• The entrance/foreground area facing the harbour (iconic shots of zoo and skyline).
• Overlooking exhibits such as marine pools, tiger enclosures, rainforest canopy walkways.
• Lawned picnic areas with unobstructed sky and city views.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start via the lower entrance (from ferry) → visit marine / Great Southern Oceans exhibits → walk up through main paths into terrestrial zones (Rainforest, Tiger Trek, apes) → midday break / lunch with views → attend keeper talks or shows in afternoon → finish with scenic paths and harbour views → exit via main entrance.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes. Taronga has “Taronga After Dark” (evening zoo experiences). Also occasional events like “Twilight at Taronga” are held. However, these are special tickets and not daily.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Weekends, school holidays and mid-day tend to be busiest.
• Visits on weekdays, early morning or late afternoon are generally less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms, baby change rooms, and disability-access toilets throughout the zoo.
• Cafés and eateries: Forage & Graze (9 am–5 pm), Taronga Food Market, Saltwater Bistro with harbour views.
• Picnic and shaded rest areas.
• Retail / gift shops.
• Free WiFi, first aid, lost property, mobility scooter or wheelchair hire.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Yes — Taronga offers accessible parking, wheelchair and mobility scooter hire.
• Some paths may be steep or involve elevation changes; plan accordingly.
• Lower entrance from ferry wharf gives a gentler path option.
• Accessible toilets and pathways in many areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most purchases (tickets, food, retail) accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments. Some smaller outlets may take cash, but it’s safer to rely on card.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Onsite: Forage & Graze, Taronga Food Market, Saltwater Bistro.
• Nearby (in Mosman or along harbour foreshore): various cafés and eateries within short distance by road or ferry.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many zoo cafés accommodate vegetarian and vegan options; halal choices may be offered depending on menu. Checking menus in advance is advised.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are accommodation options in Mosman, North Sydney, and along Sydney’s Lower North Shore. Taronga also offers on-site stays like Roar & Snore and Wildlife Retreat.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ferry ride to Circular Quay to visit Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, The Rocks.
• Walk around Mosman and visit local galleries, harbour foreshore walks.
• Visit nearby Bradleys Head or Mosman Aquarium.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, zoo gift shops sell plush animals, apparel, wildlife-themed items, educational toys, and locally themed souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Take the ferry back to Circular Quay and connect to other parts of Sydney.
• Use bus services from the zoo area to reach Mosman and the Lower North Shore suburbs.
• Use taxis or rideshares from the zoo entrance to other destinations.