If you’re a regular visitor to Werribee Zoo then Sunset Safari is a whole new way to experience this amazing place! It combines wildlife encounters, cultural performances, and delicious food options for a memorable family night out.
Sunset Safari is an after-hours event held at Werribee Zoo on Saturdays from 4 January to 22 February 2025, 5.30pm to 9pm.
Sunset Safari Werribee Zoo
This Werribee Zoo safari night out is modelled on the kind of safari experience that you might have in Africa, and it’s a lot of fun!
Running on select Saturdays from 4 January to 22 February 2025, this unforgettable event promises a night of discovery, celebration, and connection—all while contributing to wildlife conservation.
A Twilight Adventure Like No Other
As the sun dips below the horizon, Werribee Open Range Zoo comes alive with a magical energy.
We were invited to the launch of the event in 2018 and the experience has been tweaked a little each year since.
The Sunset Safari offers an exclusive after-hours experience, where you can wander the zoo’s walking trails at dusk, enjoy close encounters with wildlife, and bask in the enchanting rhythm of African culture.
Your ticket purchase to Sunset Safari helps Zoos Victoria support sister zoos and international partners including the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) who specialise in wildlife research, animal rescues and community outreach programs.
What to Expect for 2025 Sunset Safari Werribee Zoo
1. Extended Savannah Safari Tour
Hop aboard an open safari vehicle and venture deep into the sprawling savannah.
Guided by an expert Safari Guide, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the zoo’s majestic animals. Keep your eyes peeled for Jabulani, the zoo’s adorable new rhino calf, as well as herds of giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roaming freely across the plains.
2. Evening Strolls Along the Walking Trails
The zoo’s walking trails take on a whole new charm as the day fades into evening.
Marvel at the playful meerkats, hear the lions roar, and watch the antics of monkeys and wild dogs under the setting sun. Hippos lounging near the water are another highlight not to be missed.
3. African Rhythms and Dance
Immerse yourself in the soulful beats of Africa with live drumming, song, and dance performances.
These vibrant shows capture the heart and spirit of African culture, offering guests a chance to not only watch but also join in the rhythm and movement.
Feast with a View
No safari is complete without delicious food and drinks. At the Sunset Safari, you’ll have plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds:
- Cocktails and Snacks: Relax at Hippo Beach with a refreshing cocktail or a light bite.
- African Braai BBQ: Gather with family and friends on the Kia Lawn for a traditional African-style barbecue.
- Meerkat Bistro: Opt for à la carte dining indoors or outdoors, with meal combos available for pre-order to save time.
For a special treat, consider ordering one of the pre-prepared hampers. Choose from a vegetarian-friendly hamper or indulge in a premium picnic box filled with African-inspired charcuterie and artisan cheeses.
Please note: Food and drinks are sold separately and are not included in the ticket price.
Our Sunset Safari
On our visit, we enjoy the North African-inspired chicken tagine and sweet potato and lentil burger, while Lady AB tries the Turkish bread with hummus, chargrilled corn cobs, spinach, cucumber and mango salad.
We are then shepherded to an open grass area where we enjoy an African dance and music performance.
The highlight of our visit is the tour of the savannah as the sun is setting, getting up close and personal with rhinos, giraffes and zebras.
How is this different to the normal Werribee Zoo safari bus tour? The animals are often more active at sunset and because the keepers are feeding them during the tours they get VERY close to the bus and move as a herd.
Tickets and Pricing
Zoo Members are given a 10% discount. There are adult and kids prices, but you may still consider Sunset Safari to be an expensive experience if you’re bringing along the whole family.
But think of it this way – it’s still cheaper and less hassle than taking a flight to Africa! You also get so close to the animals that it’s unlikely you’ll be able to experience the same closeness in the wild.
It’s an experience that’s not to be missed if you love the zoo!
- Zoo Members: Adults $56, Children $29
- General Admission: Adults $62, Children $32 (children under 1 enter for free)
With so much included—an extended safari tour, cultural performances, and after-hours zoo access—the event offers incredible value for money.
Supporting Wildlife Conservation
Beyond its entertainment and educational value, the Sunset Safari is a meaningful way to support wildlife conservation. Proceeds help Zoos Victoria partner with organisations like the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, contributing to the protection of endangered species worldwide.
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Summer School Holiday Events 2025
Click here if you’re visiting Werribee Zoo with kids under 5
Click here for my review of Werribee Zoo’s Ranger Kids, Village Kids and Hippo Beach.
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