The Best Zoo Sleepovers in Australia

In the jungle, the mighty jungle… you know the words, well why not bring the family along and experience the very real feeling of sleeping within feet of lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and other hairy beasts for the night at Australia's best zoo sleepovers.

Australian zoos play host to incredible real-life zoo sleepovers - and you're invited! So, if you’re in the mood for an overnight safari experience with the kids, here are some of the best Australia has to offer. 

The Best Zoo Sleepovers in Australia

1. Zoofari Lodge, Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Wake up to the sounds of the African savannah in the heart of Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Their Zoofari Lodge experience is the closest thing to an African Safari you’ll experience within six hours of Sydney. All luxury Zoofari Lodges have a prime viewing spot of the nearby animals, or for something a little wilder, you can camp under the stars in very close proximity to the lions' den at their Billabong Camp.

Location: Dubbo, NSW

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2. Slumber Safari, Werribee Open Range Zoo

Luxury lodging, campfires, marshmallows, safaris, and animal encounters are all on the agenda at Werribee Open Range Zoo in South Victoria.

Their Slumber Safari Experience is ideal for families keen to get among the animals and summon African safari vibes for the night. Their cabins look like they've been picked straight out of the African bush, and their overnight accommodation packages include two-day entry to Werribee Zoo, a hosted safari, dinner, buffet breakfast, animal encounters, and plenty more.  

Location: K Rd, Werribee South Vic

3. Roar and Snore, Taronga Zoo Sydney

For an overnight animal experience in Sydney, Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo Sydney is roaring your name.

The Roar and Snore night safari is one of the most popular zoo sleepovers in Australia and delights families with animal encounters, keeper talks, delicious cuisine, rugged safari-style tents, and not to mention one of the most stunning views of Sydney Harbour to wake up to in the morning.

For something a little more luxurious, Taronga Zoo's plush wildlife experience at their Wildlife Retreat is an eco-friendly haven for those keen to get up close and personal with some of Taronga's cuddliest creatures. Date night, anyone?

Location: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW

4. Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra

At Jamala Wildlife Lodge in Canberra, you can take your pick of their Giraffe Treehouses, Jungle Bungalows, or exclusive uShaka Lodge, but whichever one you choose, you can guarantee a very wild night.

Housed within the National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra, Jamala Wildlife Lodge is one of the most exquisite zoo sleepovers in Australia where you can wake up mere metres from roaming lions outside your window! 

Location: 999 Lady Denman Dr, Canberra ACT 

5. Roar 'n' Snore, Melbourne Zoo

Another roar and snore overnight experience is available at Melbourne's premier zoo where you'll get to explore the zoo after dark.

Melbourne Zoo's Roar 'n' Snore overnight camping experience runs from September through to May on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights and is a true off-the-grid safari adventure. Dine in the Elephant House, explore the zoo after dark, get up close and personal with the animals, and listen to wild animal stories before retreating to your safari tent for the night. Waking up to the sounds of the wilderness instead of your phone will feel like a complete respite from everyday life.

Location: Elliott Ave, Parkville Vic

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