Should You Visit Werribee Open Range Zoo?

Werribee Open Range Zoo gives you a decent African-style safari feel about 30 minutes west of Melbourne. You drive your own car or take the zoo bus around large open enclosures with rhinos, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and big cats. The animals are genuinely well spaced and it feels less like a traditional zoo and more like a relaxed game drive. The main loop takes roughly 45–60 minutes. There’s also a smaller walking section with meerkats, monkeys and some Australian animals, but most people come for the open-range part.

Best time is spring (Oct–Nov) or autumn (March–April) when the weather is mild and animals are active. Summer can be very hot and the animals hide; winter is cold but the animals are often more visible. Expect to pay around $35–50 per adult for standard entry. The open-vehicle “Deluxe Safari” or behind-the-scenes tour adds roughly $60–90 on top and is the main upgrade worth considering.

Honest tips: Book the open-vehicle safari if it fits your budget — it’s noticeably better than the regular bus because you’re in a smaller group with a guide who stops longer and gets you closer. Skip the standard guided bus if you’re short on time or money; driving yourself is perfectly fine and gives you flexibility. Bring your own binoculars.