THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Explore Australia’s first combined Zoo and Aquarium in Yarralumla, just minutes from Canberra. Encounter native wildlife and vibrant marine life in a single day filled with adventure and learning.
Explore Australia’s first combined Zoo and Aquarium in Yarralumla, just minutes from Canberra. Encounter native wildlife and vibrant marine life in a single day filled with adventure and learning.
Book with National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
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Operated by National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra · Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory
Just a short drive from Canberra’s vibrant city center lies the National Zoo and Aquarium in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory, a one-of-a-kind wildlife destination that combines land and marine experiences across 19 expansive hectares. Established as Australia’s first facility that blends both a zoo and aquarium, this attraction offers an immersive opportunity to explore diverse animal habitats and aquatic environments in a single day. From the moment you step through the gates, you’re greeted by a lively cast of characters—from majestic native mammals to vibrant underwater species—making it an exceptional trip for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers alike.
The park is thoughtfully designed to showcase Australia’s unique biodiversity alongside exciting exotic species. Stroll through naturalistic enclosures featuring koalas, Tasmanian devils, and wallabies, or venture into the immersive aquarium where you can witness dazzling coral reef displays, graceful rays, and schools of colorful fish. One of the standout features is the seamless walking trail that leads you from terrestrial exhibits to the underwater world beneath the surface, allowing visitors to transition effortlessly between environments. This integration highlights the ecological connections within Australia’s varied ecosystems.
Beyond its animal inhabitants, the National Zoo and Aquarium acts as a hub for wildlife education and conservation. It actively supports breeding programs for endangered species and raises awareness about habitat preservation, making your visit not only entertaining but meaningful. Park staff are knowledgeable and often available to share insights, enriching the encounter with fascinating facts about animal behavior and conservation challenges.
Visitors can plan their visit to maximize time by arriving early when animals tend to be more active and exhibits less crowded. Thanks to its compact size and clear signage, the facility is easy to navigate, enabling an efficient and enjoyable day trip. Adjacent facilities and picnic areas offer places to relax and recharge, making it family-friendly with conveniences that encourage longer stays.
Located only minutes from central Canberra, the National Zoo and Aquarium pairs perfectly with exploring the Australian capital’s cultural landmarks and outdoor offerings. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, this destination combines adventure, education, and awe-inspiring wildlife moments in an accessible outdoor setting.
For those seeking to experience a mix of Australia’s rich terrestrial and aquatic life without extensive travel, the National Zoo and Aquarium delivers. It stands out as a must-visit destination that invites you to connect with nature, discover new species, and create lasting memories in the heart of the Australian Capital Territory.
Tickets can be bought at the entrance, but it’s recommended to book online to save time and guarantee entry.
Yes, all major pathways are paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
No, pets are not permitted to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the animals and visitors.
Direct contact is limited to specific keeper-led encounters; general interaction is not allowed for animal welfare.
Yes, there are cafes and picnic areas available, with some vegan and gluten-free options.
The zoo follows all local health regulations, including social distancing and enhanced sanitation protocols.
National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra is a combined zoo and aquarium located in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory. The facility offers a wide range of animal encounters, conservation-focused tours, educational programs and family experiences. Visitors can choose from short, guided encounters—such as 15-minute sessions with sun bears, cheetahs or tigers—to longer interactive tours including family Wonders of Wildlife and full-day conservation experiences. The venue provides school-focused keeper-for-a-day programs for primary and high school students that teach animal care, feeding and enrichment skills in structured three‑hour and longer sessions. Birthday packages and private event options are available, including Adventureland and Safari Extravaganza birthday packages that combine guided animal interactions, activity packs and catering choices suited to groups and children. General admission grants access to exhibits spanning African savannah species, Asian carnivores, Australian native animals and aquatic displays, while specialised encounters let small groups meet animals like giraffes, rhinos, meerkats and ruffed lemurs under staff supervision. Conservation, animal welfare and education are central to the institution’s offerings. Keeper-guided experiences are led by trained staff and focus on species-specific care, enrichment and conservation messaging. Tickets, encounter bookings and school program details are published by the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra and should be checked on official channels for current availability and age guidelines. The facility’s location in Canberra makes it accessible to visitors throughout the Australian Capital Territory and nearby regions. Encounter opportunities include named animals such as Arataki and Otay the sun bears and Solo the cheetah when available. Attendance depends on bookings.
Book with National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra