Sydney Zoo is opening the gates to its biggest summer program yet, bringing new animal encounters, a fresh amphitheatre show, extended hours and festive activities for families visiting during December. The Western Sydney attraction is preparing for one of its busiest periods since launching in 2019, with thousands expected to explore the expanded Africa precinct and meet the newest arrivals across the park.
From 1 December, visitors can move through a full line-up of summer events. Children can create their own baubles in the Christmas Craft Zone, wander the self-guided Wonderland Trail or drop a handwritten note into Santa’s Mailbox. The lead up to Christmas finishes with Santa Selfies from 20 to 24 December, offered at no extra charge.
The warmer months are also when the zoo’s youngest residents begin exploring their surroundings. Baby hyenas and lemurs are the latest additions, and keepers say they are already attracting steady attention from families hoping to see them play and interact as they grow.
A new summer schedule begins after Christmas. The Wild Australia Show debuts at the amphitheatre from 26 December, introducing audiences to native reptiles through short, early evening sessions. The show runs twice daily at 5.30pm and 7pm, presenting conservation messages and practical ways families can support local wildlife at home.
The zoo is also opening parts of the African Savannah that have never been accessible to visitors. The VIP Safari Tour, running daily between 26 December and 4 January and then on weekends, takes guests under the boardwalk to meet rhinos, lions and cheetahs alongside the keepers who care for them. The 45 minute experience is open to anyone aged four and above, with limited spaces to keep each tour small. Tickets go on sale on 12 December.
Extended hours return during the same period, giving early risers a chance to start their visit from 8am with Breakfast on the Boulevard. Keepers begin their morning routines while guests enjoy a relaxed meal along Primate Boulevard before crowds build later in the day.
From 4pm, Savannah Sunsets offers a different pace. Families can watch the light shift across the African habitats, listen to live drumming and enjoy meals inspired by the region. Face painting for children adds to the late afternoon atmosphere, which runs through to the end of January on weekends.
Across the park, more than 4,000 animals, the country’s largest Reptile and Nocturnal House, an aquarium and a full program of encounters make Sydney Zoo a full day out for families. Most activities are included with general admission, with food and drinks excluded. The VIP Safari Tour requires a separate ticket.
Sydney Zoo encourages visitors to plan ahead and book through SydneyZoo.com.
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