Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo offers an immersive open-range experience where you can see rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roaming vast paddocks. Unlike traditional zoos, this 300-hectare sanctuary lets you explore by car, bike, or foot, getting you closer to the animals in a natural setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Self-drive or bike safari – Drive your own car or hire a bike to explore the 6km loop, stopping at watering holes where elephants, cheetahs, and antelopes gather.
• Giraffe feeding – Get up close and hand-feed these gentle giants at the Giraffe Feed platform (check times on arrival).
• Wild Asia precinct – Home to Sumatran tigers, Asian elephants, and a walk-through aviary with colourful birds.
• Zoo Snooze – Overnight stays in luxury tents or cabins, with after-hours guided walks and breakfast with the animals.
• Keepers’ talks – Daily presentations on rhino conservation, meerkat behaviour, and reptile handling.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day (6–8 hours) to complete the loop and attend talks. If you're doing a self-drive, you can cover the main circuit in 3–4 hours, but add time for stops and the Wild Asia walk. Overnight visitors should plan a 24-hour stay to enjoy the evening and morning safari experiences.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dubbo – The regional city offers the Western Plains Cultural Centre, Old Dubbo Gaol, and riverside walking trails.
• Warrumbungle National Park – A 2-hour drive north for stargazing and hiking among volcanic peaks.
• Mudgee – Renowned wine region with cellar doors, gourmet food, and heritage architecture, about 1.5 hours east.
• Parkes – Home to the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish) and the Elvis Festival, an hour south-east.
• Macquarie Marshes – Important wetland bird habitat, ideal for birdwatching, about 1.5 hours north-west.

Please check official sources for current details.