Adelaide Zoo, located in the parklands just north of the city center of Adelaide, South Australia, is the second oldest zoo in Australia. It is a non-profit organization and home to around 2,500 animals and 250 species of both exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.5/5
TripAdvisor: 4.5/5
10 Must-Do Activities:
1. Meet the Giant Pandas – Wang Wang & Fu Ni
A visit to Adelaide Zoo wouldn’t be complete without seeing the giant pandas, Wang Wang and Fu Ni. Adelaide Zoo is the only zoo in the Southern Hemisphere to house giant pandas. These adorable black-and-white bears are a major attraction, so don’t miss your chance to observe their playful behavior.
2. Explore the Immersive Rainforest Aviary
Step into the Rainforest Aviary, a lush, tropical habitat that is home to a variety of exotic birds. You’ll encounter species like the Eclectus parrot, pied imperial pigeon, and many more flying freely around you in this immersive experience.
3. Get Up Close in Animal Encounters
Adelaide Zoo offers a number of animal encounter experiences, where you can get up close with some of the zoo’s most exciting residents. You can feed or meet animals such as lemurs, giraffes, meerkats, and even the Sumatran tiger. These experiences require booking in advance and are perfect for animal lovers looking for a memorable interaction.
4. Learn at the Interactive Keeper Talks
Throughout the day, the zoo hosts keeper talks and feeding sessions that give you insight into the animals and their care. These talks are great opportunities to learn more about specific species, such as lions, otters, and pelicans, and to see the animals during their most active times.
5. Visit the Australian Natives at the Envirodome
The Envirodome is an interactive educational center where you can learn more about Australia’s unique wildlife and environmental conservation efforts. It’s a fantastic place for kids and adults to engage with hands-on exhibits and learn about the native species that call Australia home.
6. Explore the Children’s Zoo
The Children’s Zoo is a must-visit for families with young kids. Here, children can pet and feed friendly farm animals such as goats, sheep, and chickens. It’s a great way for little ones to interact with animals in a safe and fun environment.
7. Admire the Big Cats
Don’t miss the chance to see the big cats in the zoo, including the majestic Sumatran tigers and African lions. These powerful predators are some of the most awe-inspiring animals in the zoo, and watching them up close is an unforgettable experience.
8. Walk Through the Nocturnal House
For a peek into the lives of animals that are typically active at night, take a stroll through the Nocturnal House. This dimly lit exhibit showcases creatures like bilbies, quokkas, and ghost bats. It’s a fascinating way to see animals you might not otherwise encounter during the day.
9. Enjoy a Picnic or Lunch at the Zoo Café
Adelaide Zoo provides several picnic areas where you can bring your own food and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature. Alternatively, stop by the Zoo Café for a bite to eat. The café offers a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks, and it’s a great spot to refuel during your visit.
10. Support Conservation Initiatives
Adelaide Zoo is heavily involved in conservation efforts both locally and globally. Learn more about their projects aimed at protecting endangered species like the Sumatran tiger, Western Swamp tortoise, and the Orange-bellied parrot. By visiting the zoo or participating in donation programs, you’re helping to support these critical conservation initiatives.
Official Website: https://www.adelaidezoo.com.au/
Main Positive Reviews:
Wide variety of animals and well-maintained enclosures.
Educational programs and interactive exhibits.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Good facilities with plenty of shade and seating.
Strong conservation efforts.
Most animals live in good conditions.
The zoo is easy to navigate, and the keepers and staff are great. You can tell they enjoy working there as they are very passionate and knowledgeable.
Convenient transportation.
There are many native animals, divided into various zones according to their characteristics. Each zone has its own star animal, and the keepers facilitate interaction between animals and visitors. The most famous star is the panda.
The zoo offers dining services and multiple rest areas, making it suitable for all ages. It's a beautiful and clean place worth visiting.
Main Negative Reviews:
Some enclosures may appear small and outdated.
High ticket and food prices.
Limited animal variety compared to larger zoos.
Can be crowded, especially on weekends.
Some maintenance issues and overgrown areas.
The signage could be improved.
Check the website to plan your visit as some additional experiences are only available on specific dates or seasonally.
Most cafes were closed, and other parts of the zoo were fenced off for reconstruction or maintenance.
The toilets definitely need updating, and there aren't many drink options. I think vending machines would be a good idea.
The girl at the ticket counter was very, very rude! We left without going in because she was so rude.
Most of the animals in the enclosures were not visible.
The animals looks tired.
Overall Analysis
Cost: The average cost of admission to Adelaide Zoo for an adult is approximately AUD 24.50 - 46.00
Adelaide Zoo is highly rated on both Google and TripAdvisor with an average score of 4.5 out of 5. The zoo is praised for its variety of animals, well-maintained facilities, and educational value. The pandas, in particular, are a highlight for many visitors.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Overall, Adelaide Zoo is worth visiting, especially for families and animal enthusiasts. The positive aspects significantly outweigh the negatives, making it a great day out. Just be prepared for potential crowding, higher costs, and some areas that might be under maintenance. Checking the website before your visit is advisable to ensure you can plan around any closures or special events.
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