Sydney Zoo will be closed to the public, including pass holders on Sunday 24 November & Wednesday 4 December, 2024. 

Available dates:
8, 15, 22 January
Time: 7:45am – 2:30pm
Duration: 6.5 hours
Age: 13-17 years
Price: $274.99 per person (includes zoo admission)
Unlimited or Platinum Pass holder: $249.99
Annual Pass discount price: $225.99
Max. group size: 6

Become a Cadet Zookeeper for a day!

Book in your 13-17 year old budding zookeepers to experience a day in the life of a zookeeper. This program has a specific focus on the work and training that goes into being a successful zookeeper that is unique to Sydney Zoo. Participants will gain hands on experience as they spend the day with one of Sydney Zoo’s knowledgeable zookeepers and meet many of the Sydney Zoo residents along the way. 

Book early to avoid disappointment as only 6 cadets per day will have the opportunity to participate in this program.

We now accept Active and Creative Kids vouchers for our Zookeeper for a day programs! To redeem, fill out the Experiences Booking Form and include the child’s date of birth and voucher number in the comments section. For more information see the Service NSW Active and Creative Kids voucher website.

What to expect

  • 7:45am – 8:00am orientation
  • Meet and greet with zookeepers
  • Participate in daily husbandry
  • Photo opportunities
  • Assisting in animal feeds
  • Creating animal enrichment items
  • Q&A session with education team and zookeepers

How to book

Fill out the Experiences Enquiry Form below, call us on (02) 7202 2560, or email our team at experiences@sydneyzoo.com to reserve your spot now.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

  • The Cadet Zookeeper For a Day program is held on set days.
  • Please check-in at the information desk at the zoo entrance between 7:45am and 8:00am. The Cadet Zookeeper For a Day program goes ahead on time as scheduled.
  • The Cadet Zookeeper For a Day program includes entry.
  • The maximum group size of 6.
  • Cadets must be aged between 13 and 17 and must be comfortable in the presence of animals.
  • Parents are not able to accompany children on the day, however are welcome to purchase a ticket to explore the zoo at their own pace.
  • The program runs in all weather conditions. We recommend wet weather attire on wet days. Sydney Zoo reserves the right to cancel the encounter in extreme weather conditions. A reschedule date will be offered based on availability. 
  • Sydney Zoo reserves the right to cancel the encounter for any unseen circumstances. A reschedule date will be offered based on availability. 
  • Program inclusions: A full day with a zookeeper, working and learning about a day in their life. Lunch is included.
  • What to bring: A backpack and a sun hat, water bottle and morning tea/snacks.
  • Fitness requirements: Cadets will be exploring and walking around the zoo for the day and should be able to stand and crouch comfortably.
  • Clothing requirements: Enclosed flat shoes.
  • Participants will be required to agree to the program rules and a parent or guardian must sign a waiver form on the day.
  • Members prices only available to cadets on an active annual membership.
  • Members are entitled to a 10% discount which is reflected in the members price listed above.
  • Cadet Zookeeper For a Day bookings are non-refundable. Any changes to your booking must be made at least 7 days prior to your visit date. Please call us on 02 7202 2560.

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Important Information

All encounter participants must:

Please note: your booking is not confirmed until the indemnity form is signed.

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