Werribee Zoo Asian Elephants Arrive
This weekend we had the chance to experience something truly special with the latest addition to the Werribee Open range Zoo. A family trip to the brand new Elephant and Waterhole Trails at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
The moment we stepped foot inside we were blown away by the upgrades which provided a new view of the savannah and the animals from a place never before seen. This was a wonderful lifetime encounter with one of nature’s most majestic creatures, the Asian Elephant. In a world class, open range setting that felt more like a safari than a suburban day out.
Werribee has become the new home for Zoos Victoria’s entire herd of nine Asian Elephants, who recently made the historic move from Melbourne Zoo to their new 21 hectare habitat. After spending a few weeks settling in, the trails are now open to the public and we happened to arrive at the perfect time.
Just as we wandered onto the Elephant Trail, a stunning moment unfolded. The elephants were making their way across the enclosure to their sleeping quarters. The entire herd including the massive matriarchs and cheeky young ones walked slowly and gracefully, right in front of us. It was a peaceful, awe inspiring sight, and the kids were absolutely amazed by their size and nature.
Watching these gentle giants from so close was magical. You could hear the crunch of their feet on the ground and see the way their trunks moved with curiosity. It’s hard to describe how moving it is to stand just meters from these endangered animals, knowing that their new home not only offers them comfort and space but also plays a vital role in international conservation efforts.
The trail itself is beautifully designed, with plenty of paths and informative signage. We strolled under the Elephant Overpass, where the elephants can cross right above your head and peeked into the Elephant Barn to learn how the keepers care for them. The barn highlights how much thought has gone into giving the herd freedom of choice and control over their day a key part of the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare.
We also made time to check out the Waterhole Trail, which winds past camels, zebras, ostriches, nyalas and the endangered Scimitar-horned Oryx. It felt like a mini African safari all just 30 minutes from the Melbourne CBD.
Of course no trip would be complete without a snack stop and the Waterhole Café did not disappoint. From the terrace. We had fantastic views over the pools where elephants sometimes gather all while sipping coffee and enjoying lunch.
It’s worth noting that kids enter free on weekends and school holidays making this a perfect family outing that won’t break the bank. The kids are already asking when we can go back.
This new habitat is more than a zoo exhibit it’s a commitment to the future of Asian Elephants. Through its partnership with the International Elephant Project in Sumatra, Zoos Victoria is supporting critical work like veterinary training, GPS tracking and reducing human elephant conflict in the wild.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience where education, conservation and wonder come together the Elephant Trail at Werribee Zoo is where you need to be.
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21 hectares of area is a great surface. The idea of not building cages but large areas where animals can live is nice. I think that running zoos with cages is no longer necessary. !hiqvote
Werribee Open Range Zoo is huge. 21 Achres is just for the Elephants then there are Lions and a heap of other animals too.
Australia is a big place and we have rhe room