Adelaide Zoo opened on 23 May 1883, which makes it the second-oldest zoo in Australia after Melbourne, and it still sits on a leafy eight-hectare site in the Adelaide Parklands, just north of the city centre. It is run by Zoos South Australia, a non-profit society that also operates Monarto Safari Park, so ticket income supports conservation work. The zoo is best known for its giant panda centre, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, which opened in December 2009. Beyond the pandas you will find Sumatran tigers and orangutans in the Immersion exhibit, red pandas, lions and a wide range of Australian and exotic animals, set among mature trees in what is effectively a botanical garden. Daily wildlife shows, educational programs and interactive exhibits add variety, and the compact size makes it easy for families to see the highlights without exhausting small legs.
What to see
Head first for the pandas, because the centre is the zoo's signature attraction and animals are often livelier earlier in the day. The Immersion exhibit shows Sumatran tigers and Sumatran orangutans in landscaped habitats designed to let visitors watch without barriers feeling intrusive. Red pandas, big cats and native species fill the rest of the grounds, and the wildlife shows give children a chance to ask questions.
The paths wind between old trees and garden beds, so the walk is pleasant even in warm weather, with plenty of shade and places to sit. Ask at the gate for the day's feeding talks and show times.
Ticket choices
A standard entry ticket covers the zoo, while a combined admission and Panda and Friends Encounter adds a guided experience for groups of up to 25 people, led by a live English-speaking guide. The encounter costs noticeably more and is worth it if the pandas are the reason you came. A combined ticket with another Zoos SA site is also offered for people planning a wider wildlife day. Entry ticket dates are bookable in advance, and it is sensible to reserve the encounter earlier because places are limited.
Planning your visit
The zoo is open from 9:30 in the morning to 5:00 in the afternoon every day of the week, so it fits any itinerary. Arrive close to opening if you want quieter paths and more active animals, and bring a hat and water in summer because Adelaide gets hot. Allow around three hours for a relaxed visit, longer with children or if you join the encounter.
The zoo is a short walk from the Botanic Garden and the north parklands, and it is not far from Adelaide Oval, so it combines naturally with a day on that side of the city. Check the zoo's accessibility information before you go if you use a wheelchair or a stroller.
What to expect
The experience
A walk-through zoo with themed exhibits, daily wildlife shows and an optional guided panda encounter.
Best time
Close to opening for active animals and cooler air, and weekdays for smaller crowds.
How long
About three hours, or longer with the panda encounter.
Tips
Check show and feeding times at the gate, carry water and sun protection, and book the encounter ahead because places are limited.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and animal lovers who want an easy, high-reward half day in the city.
- Families
- Children enjoy the wildlife shows and the compact layout, which keeps walking manageable.
- Couples
- A quiet morning wander among the old trees, followed by lunch near the Botanic Garden.
- Pair with
- The Botanic Garden and Adelaide Oval are both nearby on the north side of the centre.
- Time needed
- Three hours, or half a day with the panda encounter and a lunch break.
Good questions
When is Adelaide Zoo open?+
The zoo is open every day from 9:30 in the morning to 5:00 in the afternoon. It is worth checking for any event or weather changes before you go.
What is the Panda and Friends Encounter?+
It is a guided experience for groups of up to 25 people with a live English-speaking guide, added to your zoo admission. It costs more than standard entry and places are limited, so book ahead.
How long should I allow?+
About three hours is comfortable for a first visit. Allow longer with young children or if you are joining a guided encounter.
Who runs the zoo?+
Adelaide Zoo is operated by Zoos South Australia, a non-profit society that also runs Monarto Safari Park. Ticket income supports its conservation and education work.
Is it suitable for young children?+
Yes, because the site is compact, the paths are shaded and the daily wildlife shows are aimed at families. Bring a stroller for toddlers, since the walk around the grounds adds up.
