Do summer differently at Werribee Open Range Zoo

WHETHER you’re planning a family day out, an adventurous date night, a get-together with friends or a quiet moment in nature, Werribee Open Range Zoo is the place to be this summer.

With warm, sun-soaked days and animals at their most active, it’s the ideal time to roam the sweeping plains of one of Australia’s leading open-range zoos.

Hop aboard a safari bus and roll out onto the grasslands where giraffes, zebras, rhinos, antelopes and ostriches wander freely.

There’s a true sense of entering another world as herds graze in the sunshine or stroll right past the vehicle.

A special highlight for many is spotting Jabulani – the spirited Southern White Rhino calf thriving under the watchful eye of his mother Kipenzi. Born through vital breeding efforts, he represents hope for a species facing significant threats in the wild.

 

The adventure continues on foot along the zoo’s winding walking trails. Discover the lion pride lounging across rocky outcrops, encounter one of the world’s largest gorilla habitats, and catch playful Vervet Monkeys swinging and chattering in the treetops.

Not far away, hippos cool off in their wetland home, their little ears and eyes popping above the surface before they glide back under again.

With each turn of the trail, there’s a chance to encounter another remarkable animal and learn how conservation efforts support their future.

Guests can also explore the impressive Elephant Trail, where Zoos Victoria’s herd of nine Asian Elephants now enjoy a world-class 21-hectare habitat. Since arriving earlier this year, the herd — including calves Kati, Aiyara and Roi-Yim — has grown in confidence, delighting visitors as they splash in huge, shimmering pools or follow their matriarchs through shady forests and open meadows.

Purpose-built barns filled with soft sand provide space for play and rest, while expansive water features invite natural social behaviours, especially on warm summer days.

 

As evening settles in, Werribee Open Range Zoo transforms into a completely different kind of experience.

Sunset Safari returns on Saturday nights from January 10 to February 21 2026, offering extended savannah tours, live African-inspired entertainment, cocktails and snacks at Elephant Terrace or a delicious African braai barbecue dinner.

For the first time, visitors can explore the Elephant and Waterhole Trails after dark, a magical new way to see the herd under star-filled skies and enjoy the tranquillity of the savannah at night.

Whether it’s watching curious calves discover their world, sharing an ice cream with friends while a cheetah sleeps in the background, or feeling the rumble of hooves across the plains, this is a place where summer memories are made.

Gather your favourite people, or head out on your own wild escape at Werribee Open Range Zoo this summer.