Get Closer to Wildlife with Hands‑On Animal Encounters in Canberra
Book keeper-for-a-day programs, 15-minute animal encounters, family tours and birthday packages at National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra in Yarralumla.
Featured Tours & Experiences
From 15-minute encounters to full-day Wonders of Wildlife — experiences for children, families and schools.
About National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra
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.
Reserve an Unforgettable Animal Experience Today
Secure spots for keeper programs, birthday packages or wildlife encounters at National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra — intimate sessions and school programs fill quickly.