Sydney Taronga Zoo: Aussie Backyard Tour & Animal Encounters

Summary

Taronga Zoo Sydney native animals up close with local stories

You’ll ride above Sydney Harbour on the Sky Safari cable car before joining a small group for an Aussie Backyard Adventure at Taronga Zoo Sydney. Meet hand-raised kangaroos and koalas up close with your local guide, then spend as long as you like exploring expert talks and shows across the zoo grounds. It’s one of those days that lingers in your memory.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly dropped my phone trying to snap a photo of the wallaby that hopped right in front of us — it was closer than I expected, and honestly, I froze for a second. Our guide, Mel, just grinned and said, “They know who’s got the snacks.” There’s something about Taronga Zoo Sydney that feels different from other zoos I’ve visited; maybe it’s the way you arrive by ferry, watching the Opera House fade behind you, or maybe it’s just the salty breeze off the harbor mixing with eucalyptus as soon as you step out. The Sky Safari cable car ride up is worth it alone — floating over orangutans and seeing the city skyline tilt away beneath your feet is a weirdly good combo.

The Aussie Backyard Adventure tour itself is pretty relaxed. Mel led our small group through Nura Diya, pointing out which kangaroos were hand-raised (I wouldn’t have guessed — they seemed so chill). She told us about some of the keepers’ favorite animals; apparently one of the echidnas has a thing for shoelaces. We got to meet a koala up close — not to hold, but honestly just standing that close and smelling their oddly sweet fur (like eucalyptus cough drops?) was enough. I tried saying “quokka” properly and totally failed; Mel laughed and gave me a tip on the pronunciation but I still think I butchered it.

After the tour wrapped up we had all day to wander around with our passes. The free-flying bird show was loud and kind of chaotic in a fun way — parrots swooping overhead while kids shrieked below. There’s plenty of space if you want to duck away from crowds too; I found myself sitting near the seal pool for ages without meaning to. If you’re into animal talks or just want to see kangaroos lazing in the sun (they really do nap like old dogs), this place hits differently than any city zoo I’ve been to before.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Taronga Zoo and Aussie wildlife

• Arrive at Taronga Zoo
• Take Sky Safari cable car to top entrance
• Tour zoo with guide
• Meet hand-raised native animals
• Walk Australian animal trail
• Take photos with koalas and kangaroos
• Watch free flying bird show
• Attend seal show

Top questions

How do I get to Taronga Zoo Sydney?

The easiest way is by ferry from Circular Quay Wharf 4 every 30 minutes. Once at Taronga Wharf, take the Sky Safari cable car or shuttle bus up to the main entrance.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No, hotel pickup isn’t included. You’ll need to make your own way to Taronga Zoo Sydney.

How long does the Aussie Backyard Adventure tour last?

The guided portion lasts about 1.5 hours, but your zoo pass lets you stay all day.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join and ride in prams or strollers.

Is Taronga Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, both public transport options and zoo facilities are wheelchair accessible.

What animals will I see on this day trip?

You’ll see Australian natives like kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, plus other species throughout the zoo.

Can I touch or hold any animals during this experience?

You’ll meet hand-raised animals up close but holding them isn’t part of this tour.

Are there extra activities after my guided tour?

Yes—your pass includes all-day access so you can attend animal talks, bird shows, and explore at your own pace.

What’s included

Your day includes a small-group guided Aussie Backyard Adventure through Nura Diya at Taronga Zoo Sydney (about 1.5 hours), entry tickets for unlimited time exploring all zoo exhibits afterward—including expert talks and shows—and rides on the Sky Safari cable car between wharf and top entrance.