Home to over 4,000 animals, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a not-for-profit organisation anchored by a six-kilometre self-guided circuit that winds through natural bushland. Along the way, you can see a variety of enclosures and exhibits, including the sprawling Lion Pride Lands and a replica African Maasai village.

The zoo runs excellent conservation and breeding programs spotlighting both Australian and exotic species. In addition to touring the zoo independently, you can catch interactive keeper talks and sign up for exclusive experiences, such as savannah safari truck rides, big cat encounters and meerkat meet-and-greets.

You can even spend the night at the zoo, with accommodation options ranging from rustic camping tents to safari-style lodges and luxury cabins. Visit the Zoo Shop to pick up postcards, plush toys and t-shirts.

Getting there

Located on Newell Highway, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a five-minute drive from Dubbo. Buses run from the CBD or you can bike along the Tracker Riley Cycleway. Once inside the gates you can explore the zoo on foot, by car or use bikes and electric safari carts.