THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Get a close-up look at Malayan Sun Bears and learn about vital conservation efforts at Canberra Zoo. This unique encounter offers both fun and meaningful connection with wildlife.
Get a close-up look at Malayan Sun Bears and learn about vital conservation efforts at Canberra Zoo. This unique encounter offers both fun and meaningful connection with wildlife.
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 Canberra, the National Zoo and Aquarium offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Malayan Sun Bears—specifically the charming duo, Arataki and Otay. This 15-minute encounter isn’t just a chance to see these bears close-up; it’s an immersive experience that blends wildlife education with conservation awareness. These gentle giants are known for their playful, assertive personalities, making the feeding session both entertaining and insightful. Visitors learn about the heroic efforts of Mary Hutton, whose work has significantly contributed to bear rescue and conservation efforts across Southeast Asia. The zoo’s knowledgeable staff guide guests through the bears’ unique behaviors and the importance of preserving their natural habitats. The encounter is perfect for anyone curious about wildlife rescue stories, offering a hands-on opportunity to feed and interact with bears that have overcome adversity, all in a safe, controlled environment. The Canberra location enhances visitors’ appreciation for regional conservation projects, connecting international efforts to local awareness. This experience is a standout because it combines personal interaction, educational content, and the chance to meet animals typically hidden from the public. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of bear ecology and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts, making it a truly impactful outing. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a family looking for a meaningful adventure, the Sun Bear Encounter at Canberra Zoo stands out as a memorable highlight that supports global conservation themes while offering personal engagement with one of nature’s gentle giants.
easy.
15 minutes.
No special fitness required, suitable for all ages.
Yes, the Sun Bear Encounter is family-friendly and suitable for children aged 4 and up.
The encounter lasts approximately 15 minutes, including a brief educational talk.
Yes, feeding is part of the experience, supervised by zoo staff for safety.
It is recommended to book in advance as space is limited.
Absolutely, bringing a camera is encouraged to document your visit.
Yes, the zoo offers accommodations to ensure a comfortable visit for all guests.
The Canberra Zoo and Aquarium has been a key part of the local conservation community since its founding in 1990.
The zoo actively participates in international wildlife rescue programs, focusing on habitat preservation and animal rehabilitation.
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