THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Join renowned photographer Kelly McGannon for an exclusive day capturing intimate wildlife moments at National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra. Perfect for photographers seeking unique access and expert guidance.
Join renowned photographer Kelly McGannon for an exclusive day capturing intimate wildlife moments at National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra. Perfect for photographers seeking unique access and expert guidance.
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 lush grounds of Yarralumla in the Australian Capital Territory, the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra offers an exceptional gateway for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. The Focus on Wildlife Tour presents an immersive and rare chance to capture intimate moments with some of Australia’s most captivating animals. This all-day, eight-hour journey invites participants to go beyond the typical zoo visit, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes access timed perfectly with feeding sessions and enrichment activities.
Guided by Kelly McGannon, a respected wildlife photographer known for her insightful eye and technical expertise, this tour strikes a balance between artistry and education. Participants are coached on how to optimize their camera gear—from capturing the fine details in a koala’s fur to freezing the vibrant energy of a Tasmanian devil mid-motion. The itinerary thoughtfully includes breaks for morning tea and lunch, allowing time to review images and gain personalized feedback, sharpening photography skills with an expert’s touch.
The National Zoo and Aquarium is uniquely positioned in the Canberra region, offering diversity that blends native Australian fauna with exotic species in carefully designed habitats that mimic their natural environments. The presence of iconic animals such as saltwater crocodiles and red kangaroos enriches the photographic possibilities while enhancing appreciation for wildlife conservation.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of technical photography learning with real-time animal behavior observation. It’s not just about pointing and shooting; it’s about understanding animal rhythms and environments to anticipate and frame compelling shots. For visitors looking to deepen their connection to wildlife, improve their craft, and spend a day in the company of some of Australia’s most fascinating creatures, the Focus on Wildlife Tour is a standout experience that amplifies the traditional zoo visit into a purposeful adventure.
easy.
8 hours.
Requires basic fitness for walking moderate distances across varied terrain within the zoo grounds.
Participants must be at least 12 years old to join the tour.
The tour requires bringing your own camera equipment; rentals are not provided.
Basic understanding of camera functions is helpful, but expert tips are provided to all skill levels.
Yes, morning tea and lunch are included during the tour.
The tour visits a range of animals, including native Australian species and exotic wildlife on display.
The tour involves walking throughout the zoo with some uneven paths; please contact the zoo for specific accessibility needs.
Established in 1990, the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra has grown to blend conservation education with interactive wildlife experiences.
The zoo actively supports species preservation and environmental awareness through its animal care and guest education initiatives.
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