BRAND NEW
VIP SAFARI TOUR
Icon_1
from $119
per person
 
Duration
45
minutes
 
Icon_4
12
max. guests
 
Icon_5
4
min. age
 
BRAND NEW
VIP SAFARI TOUR
from $119
per person
 
Duration
45
minutes
12
max. guests
4
min. age

For the FIRST time ever, go behind the scenes!

 

Head beneath the African Boardwalk in an exclusive behind the scenes tour through a space never before open to the public. Guided by our expert keepers, you’ll have the chance to get up close with lions, rhinos, giraffes and hyenas while discovering fascinating facts about these incredible animals.

Book early to avoid disappointment as only 12 lucky people will get the chance to experience the VIP Safari Tour each session per day.

 

Book now →

Giraffe_Encounter_Animal

Go behind the scenes for the FIRST time ever! 

 

Guided by our expert keepers, step under the Boardwalk and come face-to-face with lions, cheetahs and rhinos. Uncover fascinating facts about Africa's most iconic wildlife, snap endless selfies and discover how Sydney Zoo is helping protect the future of endangered and threatened species. 

 

The VIP Safari Tour is exclusive to this school holidays. Run daily from 26 December to 4 January 2026, and weekends throughout the rest of January. 

 

Limited spots available. 

 

Book now →

 

Already a member? Book now via the member portal and SAVE 10%.

VIP TOUR LION Lemur Tail
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  • Encounter booking does not include zoo entry. A member return booking or online day ticket is required.
  • Minimum age of 4 years old. All children must be comfortable in the presence of animals. 
  • VIP Safari Tours are held four times per day at 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm and 7:00pm for a maximum group size of 12. Please note sessions times are subject to change.  
  • Each participant up to 16 years must be accompanied by a paid participating adult (1 adult per 2 children). All participants up to 18 years must have an adult or guardian present at check-in to sign and acknowledge the waiver form.
  • While we are committed to providing inclusive experiences for all guests, certain close-contact animal encounters may not be suitable for every individual due to safety, welfare, or operational considerations. A safety checklist is required to be completed by all visitors on arrival. We encourage visitors, carers, and support workers to communicate any needs or concerns with our staff so we can provide the most inclusive experience possible. Sydney Zoo staff reserve the right to cancel any booking or encounter on an assessed risk or duty of care basis for visitors, animals or staff. In this event, your encounter booking may be rescheduled, credited or refunded. 
  • Encounter 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.
  • Unfortunately, this encounter is not suitable for people with a disability or compromised mobility. Please call us on 02 7202 2560 to discuss what other encounters may be suitable.
  • Please check in at the information desk at the zoo entrance at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled encounter time. Encounters go ahead on time as scheduled.
  • The encounter 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.
  • Clothing requirements: For your comfort and safety, please wear enclosed footwear suitable for varied surfaces and to provide safety in the habitat. Visually ostentatious garments (i.e. costumes, novelty hats, etc.) are not permitted. Upon check-in, staff will be required to sight the shoes worn and the full mobility of each participant to ensure the highest level of safety for the duration of the animal encounter.
  • Please note that any visitors who have been impacted by government health warnings (eg recent contraction of Covid-19 or Foot and Mouth disease) are required to contact our Visitor Experience team on 02 7202 2560 prior to booking.

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