National Zoo And Aquarium

Home to over 200 species, the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra offers a chance to get up close with Australian and exotic animals in a sprawling 23-hectare bushland setting. As a combined zoo and aquarium, it’s a rare find, blending underwater worlds with terrestrial habitats. The zoo’s focus on conservation and immersive experiences makes it a standout for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Highlights & What to See

• African Savannah Enclosure – Watch giraffes, zebras, and rhinos roam a vast paddock; the elevated boardwalk offers prime photo ops.
• Great Southern Ocean Aquarium – Walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and sea turtles – it feels like you’re underwater.
• Meet the Keepers Talks – Daily presentations on big cats, primates, and reptiles give behind-the-scenes insights into animal care.
• Red Panda Habitat – These adorable, tree-dwelling mammals are a crowd favourite; visit during feeding times for the best views.
• Australian Walkabout – Encounter kangaroos, wallabies, and emus in a free-roaming area where you can hand-feed them (pellets available).
• Nocturnal House – See bilbies, quolls, and other shy native creatures in a reversed day-night cycle environment.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day (3–4 hours) to cover the main exhibits and catch a few keeper talks. If you’ve booked an animal encounter (like feeding a giraffe or meeting a cheetah), plan for a full day as these experiences last 30–60 minutes each. The zoo is best visited in the morning when animals are most active, and you can break for lunch at the on-site café overlooking the savannah.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – The nation’s capital is just a 15-minute drive away, with Lake Burley Griffin, Parliament House, and the Australian War Memorial offering a full day of exploration.
• Black Mountain Reserve – A short detour for bushwalking and panoramic views from the Telstra Tower; great for a post-zoo leg stretch.
• National Arboretum Canberra – A sprawling living tree museum with walking trails and a kids’ adventure playground, perfect for a calming afternoon.
• Lake Ginninderra – A 20-minute drive north, this lake has picnic spots, a playground, and a small beach – ideal for a relaxed end to the day.

Please check official sources for current details.