The Adelaide Zoo was such a wonderful experience for our family and is home to more than 2,500 animals. First opening in 1883, making it the second oldest zoo in Australia.
What’s Black, White, Soft and Cuddly and can only be found in the Adelaide Zoo?
The Giant Panda!!
At the Zoo
With the animal enclosures spread over eight hectares of green botanic surroundings, it’s an easy, relaxing walk from one exhibit to the next.
The way the enclosures are set out provides great viewing for kids, and you are right amongst the animals when you walk through the bird aviary.
Our Top 10 reasons to visit the Adelaide Zoo
1.The two Pandas, Fu Ni and Wang Wang
Wang Wang and Fu Ni are Australia’s only giant pandas and the South Hemisphere’s only breeding pair of Giant Pandas.
2. Red Panda
You would assume the Red Panda would be a relative of the black and white kind. Surprisingly Red Pandas are more closely related to racoons.
3. Chilean Flamingo
Another beautiful animal that you can only find at the Adelaide Zoo.
4. Meerkats
Meerkats are playful creatures that enjoy exploring and are very inquisitive. They are one of the most watched animals at the Zoo.
5. Blue and Gold Macaw
Two stunning vibrant Hyacinth Macaws, Skitty and Cool Cat
6. Giraffes
7. Ring-tailed Lemur
8. Hippos
9. Giant Aldabra Tortoise
10. Samatran Orangutan
Zoo Tours
The Zoo provides free guided tours, where the volunteers share their knowledge on the history, animals and the role it plays in protecting the wildlife. There are also many keeper talks spread throughout the day and don’t miss the Blue and Gold Macaws free-flight show on the Central Lawn.
At an additional cost, for those that want a special animal encounter, the zoo offers the unique experience to get up-close with some of the animals. Bookings are essential.
Meals
Out of the two choices, we opted for a quick lunch at the Fig Tree Café, which is near the centre of the park close to bathrooms and parents change rooms. There were also many picnic tables spread around the Zoo to enjoy your lunch or a snack while being charmed by the animals.
Wisteria Restaurant, located inside the main entry is another area for meals and ideally located close to the playground.
Playtime
Something new for the kids is the playground that is built on nature play principles. Children can be entertained by climbing structures, water play features, a natural creek bed and aerial walkways. The precinct has a new toilet and parent’s room facilities.
Conservation
Zoos SA is a conservation-based charity doing all they can to protect and save rare animals from extinction. They strive to connect people with nature and offer you a chance to adopt an animal, commit to a conservation project or make a one off donation.
Opening Hours
The Adelaide Zoo is open from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm every day of the year, including Christmas and all public holidays. Their website gives further information, maps and ticket prices along with specific displays opening and closing times.
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Have you been to the Adelaide Zoo, what was your favourite animal?
