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Sydney: Taronga Zoo
Destination Revisited Series
Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW
Open 7 days a week 9.30 am - 4.30 pm
One of Sydney’s iconic attractions, Taronga Zoo has been drawing crowds, the young and the old alike since the early 1900s. Opened in October 1916, first exhibits to be built on 52 acres of NSW government allocated land north of the Sydney Harbour were the seal ponds, elephant temple, monkey pits, top entrance, aviaries, paths and roadways and the refreshment rooms.
One of the best things about Taronga Zoo, apart from the large and varied selection of animals, is its location on the shores of the Sydney Harbour. The scenic views around the zoo accompanied by its many interesting animals and birds on display as well as its daily seal and bird shows make it an exciting place to spend the whole day. The Zoo also undertakes conservation efforts to support wildlife, science, education and training on wildlife health.
How to get there
By ferry:
Taronga Zoo is a 12 minute ferry ride away from Circular Quay. Ferries depart every 30 minutes from Wharf 4. The scenic ferry ride can almost be called a tourist attraction in itself as it showcases two of Sydney’s landmarks, the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House during the journey. The ferries are usually bustling with commuters and tourists alike and it’s a great opportunity to capture photos of the iconic Sydney landmarks. You can also view Sydney’s skyscrapers and the glorious city views from the ferry.
Captain Cook Cruises operate the Zoo Express and all day hop on, hop off services departing daily from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay.
By bus:
Bus route 430 travels to Taronga Zoo Sydney every 10 to 15 minutes from Central, Town Hall and Wynyard train stations.
Bus route 238 travels between Balmoral Beach, the Taronga Zoo Sydney main entrance and the Taronga ferry wharf on the water's edge for passengers arriving or leaving by ferry.
Driving:
The drive from Sydney CBD is approximately 9.6 kms and will take around 30 minutes reach the zoo.
Things to do
· There are 20 daily shows and keeper talks all included in the ticket price. This includes the QBE Free Flight Bird show, the ever popular Seal show, chimpanzee, Asian elephant, meerkat, gorilla, capybara and Komodo dragon keeper talks.
· Get up and close (almost!) to the Sumatran tigers on the Indonesian themed immersive experience of the Tiger Trek. This is fun for the whole family and the children will enjoy the aeroplane simulation!
· Ride the Sky Safari as you enter the zoo and view the Asian elephants, the giraffes and the amazing wildlife from above the cable car.
· Climb great heights on the Wild Rope navigating suspension bridges, climbing walls and flying foxes all while enjoying the views of Sydney Harbour.
There are a number of kid friendly activities including fun and educational school holiday programs for 5 to 10 year olds. You can also enjoy an overnight stay at the zoo at the elegant Australian eco-retreat as well as a safari-style 'Roar and Snore' camping experience.
So, whether you are seven or seventy, come and enjoy a day with 350 species of the animal kingdom including the Red Kangaroo, the Tree Kangaroos, the Regent Honeyeaters, the Koalas, the Sun Bears and the Southern Corroboree Frogs. Explore, relax, take photos, talk to the animals, take a coffee break at one of the many cafes, enjoy an ice cream on a hot summer’s day and be at one with nature. That’s the beauty of Taronga!
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