Werribee Open Range Zoo
Zoo Safari-style zoo showcasing African megafauna in Victoria
Near Melbourne, Werribee Open Range Zoo recreates African-style habitats with large mammals, guided safari tours and walk-through exhibits aimed at family visits and conservation education.
Werribee Open Range Zoo is an open-range zoological park near Werribee, Victoria, Australia, operated by Zoos Victoria. It was established to exhibit large African mammals in expansive, free-range style enclosures.
The facility opened in the early 1980s and has been developed as part of Victoria’s network of zoos to provide conservation, education and visitor experiences focused on large mammals in open habitats. Management and husbandry practices have been updated over time in line with modern zoo standards.
The zoo sits near the town of Werribee in Victoria, approximately a 30 to 40 minute drive from central Melbourne depending on traffic.
- Proximity to Melbourne: Located about 32 kilometres southwest of Melbourne's central business district, making it a common day-trip destination from the city.
- Scale and operator: Operated by Zoos Victoria, the park emphasizes free-range exhibits and safari-style experiences across more than 200 hectares of grounds.
What to See #
- Savannah enclosures: The open-range savannah enclosures recreate African grassland habitats where giraffes, zebras and various antelope species roam across large grassy paddocks.
- Safari bus: Guided safari bus tours operate through the main open-range area, providing vehicle-based close views of the large mammals and an interpretive commentary.
How to Get to Werribee Open Range Zoo #
Werribee Open Range Zoo is about 32 km southwest of Melbourne’s CBD. By car take the M1 (Princess Freeway) and follow signs to Werribee; there is paid parking on site. Public transport options include regional trains to Werribee then a short taxi or bus; check local timetables for current services.
Tips for Visiting Werribee Open Range Zoo #
- Book the African open-range safari tour; it's the best way to see large herds in habitats designed to mimic African plains.
- Arrive before feeding times if the goal is to photograph animals in motion; midday can be low-energy for many species.
- Take the free park map and use the East African safari area first - it's usually less crowded in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Werribee Open Range Zoo #
Spring and autumn combine comfortable weather with active animals; summer is busy but good for families.
Weather & Climate near Werribee Open Range Zoo #
Werribee Open Range Zoo's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in February) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 5°C to 26°C. Moderate rainfall (547 mm/year).
January
January is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 61 mm of rain.
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November
November is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
