Werribee Open Range Zoo

Werribee Open Range Zoo is an African-themed open-range zoo located on K Road in Werribee South, about 30 kilometres southwest of Melbourne, Victoria. Operated by Zoos Victoria on 225 hectares of former Werribee Park land, it houses more than 500 animals including giraffes, zebras, rhinoceros, lions and gorillas in savannah-style habitats. Notable for its guided safari bus tour across open grasslands, it focuses on wildlife conservation, breeding programs and immersive visitor experiences.

Visitors can explore a 225-hectare savannah landscape with open grasslands, river trails and landscaped habitats. The core experience is a guided off-road safari bus tour through large enclosures housing giraffes, zebras, rhinoceros, antelope and ostriches, plus walking trails to see lions, cheetahs, gorillas, hippos and Australian native animals. The site includes walking paths, viewing platforms, keeper talks and animal encounters, with picnic lawns, food outlets and a visitor centre in an open, semi-arid setting along the Werribee River.

Established by the Zoological Board of Victoria and opened in 1983 on part of the historic Werribee Park pastoral estate. Created to accommodate large grazing and savannah species requiring extensive open-range conditions not possible at Melbourne Zoo. Developed as the second of Zoos Victoria's three zoos, expanding to include African savannah, Australian and predator precincts.

Operated by Zoos Victoria, the zoo plays a significant role in wildlife conservation, threatened species breeding programs, education and community engagement. It presents African and Australian wildlife in immersive habitats and supports international conservation partnerships.