What Animals Can I See At Dubbo Zoo?

If you have keen animal lovers in your midst, you should move the ultimate NSW zoofari straight to the top of your familial bucket list. Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, aka, Dubbo Zoo, is home to hundreds (and we mean hundreds!) of rare and endangered animals throughout a five-kilometre circuit that you can walk, ride or drive your merry way around. 

Read on for the specifics of what species you can expect to see, where to stay, and how long you’ll need to get the most out of the experience.

The Animals

Home to some of the most sought-after safari sights and species, there’ll be no end of loudly-proclaimed “wow!’s” coming from your mini zoologist's mouth as you tour the zoo. A pride of African Lions, Sumatran Tigers, Sumatran Rhinoceros and a super rare King Cheetah are huge drawcards at the zoo, while Asian Elephants, Giraffes, Zebras, Sun Bears and Meerkats also call the Dubbo attraction home. 

Representing the Aussie animal scene are Kangaroos, Koalas, Southern Corroboree Frogs, Regent Honeyeaters, Platypus’, Greater Bilbies and more—meaning you can get to know the special species that we share the country with!

How Big Is The Zoo?

Did we mention that the zoo sprawls its way across a 5.5km circuit? Whether you plan to drive, walk or use the bike or electric cart hire facility to get around and experience all that the zoo has to offer, let the minutes show that it’s a biggun!

Make An Overnighter Out Of It

Tickets to Dubbo Zoo include two consecutive days entry—and for good reason. There’s so much to see and do, you’ll need both days to fully explore what the zoo has to offer. We’re willing to bet you’ll need two days to listen to the Keeper Talks, see the baby animals and maybe even partake in a wild experience or two—meet and greet with a meerkat, anyone?

Where To Stay

With so much to do, it makes sense to really make the most of the two-day pass that comes with each ticket. You can wake up in the wild with three accommodation options to choose from for a super unique experience. 

The Zoofari Lodge is positioned next to a savannah—home to antelope, rhinos, giraffes to name but a few. Offering an African safari-style experience without the hefty airfares, a stay at the Zoofari Lodge includes one-night accommodation, dinner, breakfast, an exclusive tour, two-day zoo entry and bike hire. Alternatively, the Savannah Cabins are a great self-contained option, with sprawling savannah views on your doorstep. There is a range of packages available depending on your needs. Lastly, try your hand at camping (without all the setting up, we should add) at the Billabong Camp close to Lion Pride Lands. The Billabong Camp Package includes one-night accommodation, dinner, breakfast and a range of tours. 

Please note: Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is a registered COVIDSafe business and has made modifications to support social distancing regulations and ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Live events including in-person keeper talks, animal encounters and tours are currently suspended. All face-to-face programs including Zoo Adventures school holiday programs and Keeper for a Day remain on hold until further notice. Billabong Camp is also closed. Other aspects of Taronga Western Plains Zoo may also be temporarily closed or operating in-line with current restrictions to enable social distancing. Tickets will NOT be available for purchase at the gate. 

Beyond the Zoo

Rest assured that if you’re committing to making the trip to Dubbo with kids, there’s plenty to check out beyond the zoo. The Old Dubbo Gaol is a family-friendly historical experience that’s a firm favourite among thrill-seeking youngsters, while the Wellington Caves, situated just outside of Dubbo is another great experience for history-hungry minds. The underground cave system is a great opportunity for fossil finds and learning opportunities.

Dubbo Observatory is another unmissable attraction for inquisitive minds, offering memorable stargazing tours that’ll are perfect for budding astronomers!

If your littles are needing to blow off some steam, Livvi’s Place Playground is an award-winning playground that caters for all ages and abilities. It boasts interactive play equipment, plenty of shaded areas and is the perfect spot for a picnic.

More Animal-Related Reads Here:

Best Animal Activities And Petting Zoos In Sydney
The Best Animal Themed Adventures For Kids
Places Where You Can Dine With Animals In & Around Sydney

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