THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step inside the enclosure and spend 30 unforgettable minutes with three adult cheetahs at Yarralumla’s Australian National Zoo. Discover their playful nature, witness enrichment activities, and learn about vital conservation efforts on this unique wildlife encounter.
Step inside the enclosure and spend 30 unforgettable minutes with three adult cheetahs at Yarralumla’s Australian National Zoo. Discover their playful nature, witness enrichment activities, and learn about vital conservation efforts on this unique wildlife encounter.
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
Located in the heart of Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory, The Complete Cheetah Experience offers an exclusive opportunity to connect with some of nature's most extraordinary athletes—the cheetahs. This immersive 30-minute session moves beyond the traditional zoo visit, inviting wildlife enthusiasts aged 16 and over to step inside the enclosure with three playful adult cheetahs under the guidance of experienced zookeepers. This encounter is designed to give visitors a direct, hands-on understanding of the cheetahs’ behavior, personality, and conservation needs.
The Australian National Zoo, where this experience takes place, is a vital part of the region's outdoor wildlife offerings, providing an intimate, educational look at animal care and preservation. Cheetahs, renowned for their speed and agility, are elusive in the wild, making this rare chance to be so near to them especially compelling. Their sleek bodies, distinctive spotted coats, and amber eyes tell the story of a species adapted to sprint across the African savannah, yet facing serious survival challenges today.
During the session, zookeepers showcase enrichment activities that stimulate the cheetahs mentally and physically — from chasing lures to climbing structures. Guests gain insight into the nuances of cheetah behavior and the science behind conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs and habitat restoration. The encounter goes beyond observation, emphasizing the immediate role visitors play in raising awareness to protect these iconic cats.
Yarralumla stands as a gateway to wildlife encounters within the Australian Capital Territory, and this cheetah experience is a standout offering that blends adventure with meaningful conservation education. The well-established zoo facility prioritizes animal welfare and sustainability, ensuring that every guest interaction is respectful and enriching, making The Complete Cheetah Experience an exceptional way to engage with nature responsibly.
Ideal for animal lovers and anyone eager for a closer bond with wild creatures, this booking-only experience highlights the importance of protecting endangered species. Whether you're visiting Canberra or exploring the region, this encounter brings you face-to-face with one of the fastest and most fascinating mammals on earth, framed in a setting that celebrates wildlife preservation and education.
easy.
30 minutes.
Suitable for all fitness levels since interaction is moderated and low-impact.
Yes, the experience is carefully supervised by trained zookeepers to ensure safety for both visitors and animals.
Guests must be aged 16 years or older and at least 1.5 meters tall to participate.
Photography is permitted, but flash and sudden movements should be avoided to not startle the cheetahs.
Bookings are essential and can be made online. Cancellation policies vary, so check terms at time of reservation.
The cheetahs are part of a conservation breeding program focused on supporting wild populations through education and research.
Yes, though availability may vary seasonally. It’s best to check ahead to confirm dates and times.
The Australian National Zoo opened in 1970 and has focused on wildlife conservation and education ever since.
The zoo operates with a commitment to endangered species protection and sustainable practices, including habitat simulation and enrichment programs.
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