Taronga Zoo

When traveling to Australia or to any other country, one thing that comes to mind is the uniqueness of each country. One thing that I consider to be unique about Australia is of with flora and fauna, and one place you can go to see and sometimes interact with the local and foreign fauna is at Taronga Zoo.

Taronga Zoo was officially opened on its current site on October 7th, 1916 but its history dates back to 1884 when the first public Zoo in New South Wales opened on a site known as Billy Goat Swamp. Since then new exhibits and facilities were developed over time and the philosophy for the operation of Taronga evolved to reflect emphasis on scientific research, conservation and education.

Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes from the city at Circular Quay by ferry, with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and free shows and keeper talks throughout the day. Or up to 38 minutes by taking the 247 Sydney Buses bus from Wynyard Station, Carrington St - Stand A.

Taronga Zoo is open everyday of the year from 9.30am – 5pm; 9.30am – 4.30pm during Winter(May–Aug) including Christmas Day. December 31 (NYE) 9.30am - 4pm

Daily admission costing:

• Adults $44
• Children (4-15 years) $22
• Children (under 4) Free
• Concession $31.50
• Families SAVE 15%: adult $37.40, child $18.70
  (minimum 3 guests with 1 child aged 4-15 years visiting)

There are also special Zoo Pass at Sydney Ferries where you can save 10% on the cost of Zoo entry and Ferry transport when ourchase your combined Zoo Pass and Sydney Ferries ticket at Circular Quay.


There is plenty more to find out including details of hand-on tours, various activites, daily show timetable, and interactive map, at the Taronga Zoo website: http://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo

- John Ramos