Step into the African Savannah Safari at National Zoo Canberra for a 90-minute up-close animal adventure. Feed giraffes, marvel at cheetahs, and learn about endangered species in this hands-on wildlife experience.
Step into the African Savannah Safari at National Zoo Canberra for a 90-minute up-close animal adventure. Feed giraffes, marvel at cheetahs, and learn about endangered species in this hands-on wildlife experience.
Book with National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra · Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory
Set within the scenic grounds of the National Zoo and Aquarium in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory, the African Savannah Safari invites visitors on a concentrated 90-minute journey into the heart of Africa’s iconic wildlife – without leaving Canberra. This immersive encounter brings the savannah’s drama to life through up-close interaction with giraffes, zebras, rhinos, lemurs, and cheetahs, all within thoughtfully designed open enclosures that encourage natural behaviors and authentic observation.
Beginning at the zoo’s reception, the guided tour ventures into the open-range section dedicated to African species. Here, guests can feed towering giraffes, their velvety tongues reaching forward for leafy treats, while gaining tactile appreciation of a rhino’s thick, armor-like skin—an experience as educational as it is awe-inspiring. The speed and agility of the cheetahs become palpable in moments where visitors pause to admire the fastest land animal on Earth, learning how habitat loss has imperiled these magnificent hunters.
Children and adults alike find themselves drawn into the storytelling behind each species on the safari: the remarkable social patterns of zebras, the lemurs’ agile antics, and the conservation challenges facing these animals back on their home continent. The National Zoo and Aquarium—a cornerstone of Canberra’s outdoor wildlife scene—champions animal welfare and conservation education, making this safari a standout destination for families, curious travelers, and advocates of environmental stewardship.
Situated on Lady Denman Drive, the zoo offers more than an attraction; it’s a living classroom. This safari stands apart in the region by delivering both engagement and empathy for endangered species often out of reach to Australian audiences. As you walk the paths between habitats, you’re invited not only to witness but also to act—supporting ongoing efforts to safeguard these animals’ futures worldwide.
With vibrant fauna, knowledgeable guides, and an accessible location less than 10 kilometers from central Canberra, the African Savannah Safari is a compact yet captivating adventure blending education, interaction, and conservation impact in one unforgettable excursion.
easy.
90 minutes.
Suitable for persons with basic mobility able to walk for 90 minutes without assistance.
Yes, children aged 6 and above can join, but those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Guests can feed the giraffes as part of the experience, supervised by guides to ensure safety and wellbeing.
Participants must be able to walk without assistance and follow guide instructions for safety reasons.
Yes, photography is encouraged, but flash is prohibited to avoid startling the animals.
Yes, the safari price includes full admission to the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra.
The safari raises awareness for endangered species and supports the zoo’s ongoing conservation programs.
The National Zoo and Aquarium has served Canberra since the 1990s, evolving into a leading conservation and education center in the region.
The zoo actively participates in breeding and rehabilitation programs to protect endangered African species and educates visitors on habitat preservation.
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