Perth Zoo sits on Labouchere Road in South Perth, just across the Swan River from the city centre, and it has been a family favourite for generations. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day, including public holidays, and runs special evening events through the year. Highlights include free keeper talks called Walks and Talks, the Wild About Babies Trail, Animal Close Encounters with behind-the-scenes experiences, and a cafe and playground. The venue suggests allowing at least half a day, with a full day recommended if you want to see everything. It is a good choice for families, wildlife lovers and anyone who enjoys a green, shaded walk. The Bush Stone-curlew is currently off display, so check the venue's page for any other changes.
What to do
Follow the paths through habitats of Australian native animals and species from other continents, and time your visit around the free keeper talks, which add stories and feeding times. The Wild About Babies Trail focuses on young animals, which children tend to love. Animal Close Encounters are paid, bookable experiences that take you behind the scenes, and the venue's kids and youth programs and seasonal events add variety. Evening events run on selected dates, with times advertised for each.
Planning
General entry tickets are sold through the venue's website, which also offers memberships and a way to convert an entry ticket into a membership if you plan to return. The zoo notes a bird flu response page, so check it before you go in case any exhibits are affected. The Bush Stone-curlew is the only animal listed as off display. Allow half a day at the least, and bring a hat, sunscreen and water because the paths can be hot in summer.
Fitting it in
The zoo is easy to reach by public transport, bike, foot or car, and many visitors cross the river by ferry from Elizabeth Quay, which makes the journey part of the outing. It suits a morning or afternoon alongside Kings Park, and it is the best wet-weather option for families who do not mind a light shower.
If you are visiting Perth for several days, a zoo morning followed by lunch at the cafe and a playground break is a gentle day for younger children. Check the visit page for the latest hours and events before you travel.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided zoo visit with free keeper talks, themed trails and optional paid close encounters.
Best time
Morning, when many animals are most active and the paths are cooler.
How long
At least half a day, with a full day for a thorough visit.
Tips
Buy tickets online, plan around the keeper talks, bring water and sun protection and check the visit page for changes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and animal lovers who want a green, relaxed day out.
- Families
- Keeper talks, the baby animals trail, a playground and a cafe make it easy with children.
- Couples
- Pair a morning visit with a river ferry ride and lunch.
- Pair with
- Kings Park and the river ferry from Elizabeth Quay.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
When is Perth Zoo open?+
It is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day, including public holidays. It also holds special evening events with times advertised for each.
Where is Perth Zoo?+
It is at 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth, just across the river from the city centre. You can arrive by public transport, bike, foot or car.
How long should I allow?+
The venue suggests at least half a day and recommends a full day. A morning visit with a cafe lunch suits families with young children.
Are there free activities?+
Yes, free keeper talks called Walks and Talks run during the day. Animal Close Encounters are paid behind-the-scenes experiences.
Is anything off display?+
The Bush Stone-curlew is currently off display. The venue also links to a bird flu response page, so check it before you go.
