Australia Zoo, Queensland, Australia

5Karlee B 5:00 PM Nov 30, 2022

Amazing day out for all ages!
We absolutely loved our visit to Australia Zoo - there was so much to do! We were worried about wet weather affecting our day, but despite being very hot, we didn't have any rain at all. Having not been to the zoo for more than 10 years, we were so impressed with the facilities and the sheer size. It's absolutely massive, and everything is maintained beautifully. While we were concerned it would be very busy when we saw the full car park, it wasn't an issue at all. The staff were all brilliant, and there were plenty of different places in the shade for people to gather and sit. The water fountains and vending machines with water bottles throughout the zoo were also very helpful. The animals seemed so happy and well looked after. We saw a wombat having its daily walk, and spent some time with the kangaroos, they were incredibly quiet and relaxed. The main show was really well done, there was a good variety of birds and other animals, and of course the crocodiles. The show is still educational like I remembered, but was short enough to keep it light and fun. We had a photo with a koala and one of our family members also did the meerkat experience. She thoroughly enjoyed it and we regretted that we didn't travel over to the African area - it looks amazing, it's just quite a long way by foot! The other thing we were really impressed by, was the food area. The meals you can purchase are already in boxes and heated for you to come and select, making the experience quick and easy. Australia Zoo has made an effort to make the meals more affordable than I could remember from our last visit. We were very pleasantly surprised that we could buy our food quickly and there were still tables free for us to sit at. What a fantastic day we had - the only disappointment we had was that the teapot ride in the children's area was closed! My 1.5 year old dearly wanted to ride on it and it seemed to have closed early for the day. I also would bring swimwear for small children as they have a water attraction in the same area. Thanks so much for the amazing experience, we will definitely return!

5Ozetravellers 5:00 PM Jun 28, 2022

A lovely family outing for all ages
We went to the zoo for my husband's birthday with 6 adults, a teenager and a toddler and we had the most wonderful day. Unfortunately I didn't think of this plan early enough and all the animal encounters were sold out (it was school holidays). We have previously done the encounters with the tortoises, Komodo dragons and the Rhinos. I would definitely do at least one animal encounter because they are sooo good. The zoo is big but I don't think you need 2 days to see it as some people have suggested. There is enough to do but you can see everything. If you can't walk very far there is a shuttle too take you to the Africa section but it honestly isn't that far. If you have been to any big theme park eg Dreamworld, it is much the same and if you have been to Disneyland you will think this is an easy 1 day venture. The zoo itself has beautiful enclosures and whilst there aren't hundreds of animals jammed packed in, there are enough. There are other opportunities to see the animals up close such as at a photo session. Also at the koala walk through, you can pat the koala and get a photo taken for free.I recommend you do this at about 4.30pm when the koalas are awake , walking around and eating. They are so close it is amazing. There are a few shows to see. The busiest is the Croc show. On the school holidays the Irwins do the show which is a highlight. However it is also very very busy. If you want to grab a good seat and lunch beforehand you need to go an hour before the show as every single person will be lining up for their lunch too!! Unfortunately the animal hospital tour was closed due to staff shortages but you can take a "sneak peak" for an extra $2 on your ticket and I thought it was worth doing this. You can see them doing live operations on the animals through the windows. Overall a great day. Next time I will book earlier!! PS You can get 10% off tickets with the Entertainment card