From Melbourne: Werribee Open Range Zoo & Werribee Mansion

Travelers seeking a blend of history, wildlife, and a dash of adventure will find this tour from Melbourne a compelling option. With a visit to the elegant Werribee Mansion paired with an exciting safari at the Werribee Open Range Zoo, it offers a well-rounded day out that appeals to all ages.

What makes it particularly appealing? We love the self-guided mansion tour, which allows for leisurely exploration, the close encounters with African animals on the safari bus, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who add depth and warmth to the experience.

One potential drawback is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget extra or bring a picnic. But for those who appreciate a mix of cultural heritage and wildlife, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s best suited for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to spend a day exploring Victoria’s treasures without the hassle of planning.

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Key Points

Balanced Experience: Combines historic elegance with wilderness adventure.
Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 5 and up, making it a great outing for all ages.
Value for Money: At $96, it offers a comprehensive day out with included transport, entry fees, and a safari experience.
Flexible Exploration: Self-guided mansion tour and ample zoo time allow for personalized pacing.
Insights from Reviewers: Guests appreciated the friendly guides and the stunning views, especially during the safari ride.
Consideration: Lunch is not included, so plan ahead for meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This full-day journey kicks off with a convenient pickup from Melbourne’s CBD, specifically at the Ian Potter Centre on Flinders Street, making it easy to join without any fuss. The tour lasts up to 7 hours, blending historical exploration with animal encounters — a combination that works well for both history buffs and wildlife enthusiasts.

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The Werribee Mansion

The day begins with a visit to Werribee Mansion, a grand 19th-century estate that offers a glimpse into Australia’s pastoral past. You’ll enjoy a self-guided tour of the mansion’s beautifully restored rooms, which are filled with period furniture and original decor. The gardens are equally impressive, providing a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll.

One reviewer noted, “The mansion and the grounds and the drive around through the zoo” made for a memorable experience, highlighting how the mansion’s architecture and gardens are truly worth exploring. The mansion provides insight into the lifestyle of the Chirnside family, who played a significant role in the area’s development.

Pro tip: The flower displays at the mansion change with the seasons, so if you visit when the flowers are in bloom, the gardens will be especially stunning. However, if visiting outside flowering season, don’t worry — the architecture and interiors still shine.

The Werribee Open Range Zoo

Next, the adventure continues at the Werribee Open Range Zoo, about a 15-minute drive from the mansion. Once there, you’ll hop onto a Safari Bus that takes you on a 40-minute journey through the zoo’s African-inspired landscapes. Expect close-up views of lions, giraffes, zebras, and other iconic African animals.

Guests consistently praise the guides’ warmth and knowledge, with one commenting, “Rick was a great tour guide! Loved it!” The safari ride is a highlight, giving travelers a sense of what it might be like to see these animals in the wild — all within Victoria’s borders.

The zoo also offers free animal talks and meet-and-greet experiences (though some animal experiences require additional fees). This makes the day interactive and engaging, especially for kids eager to learn and get closer to the wildlife.

Timing and Flexibility

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned, with a morning departure from Melbourne and a return by late afternoon. The schedule allows plenty of time at each stop without rushing. You’ll have ample time to explore the mansion’s gardens and interiors, as well as to enjoy the zoo’s exhibits, including the safari ride and animal talks.

Guests have appreciated the ample time to explore each location thoroughly. A reviewer from Singapore mentioned, “Ample time to explore all of the attractions,” confirming the tour’s well-paced structure.

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Transportation and Comfort

The tour provides comfortable transport between Melbourne and Werribee, which is a big plus if you’d rather relax and enjoy the scenery rather than worry about driving. The vehicle is suited for small to medium groups, offering a cozy but spacious environment.

The driver and guide are described as fun, friendly, and knowledgeable, with one reviewer noting, “Rick was a great tour guide,” which adds to the overall positive experience. Bottled water is provided, helping you stay refreshed during the day.

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Cost and Value

At $96 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: entry to both the mansion and zoo, the safari bus ride, transport, bottled water, and guidance.

While lunch isn’t included, you can expect to spend about $20-$30 at the zoo’s café or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the gardens — a cost-effective way to customize your meal experience.

Some reviewers have mentioned optional extras, such as behind-the-scenes wildlife experiences starting from an additional $40 per person. These are not included in the standard package but could be worthwhile if you want an even more intimate encounter with the animals.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently commented on the friendly guides and stunning views during the safari. One traveler from the US appreciated “the mansion and the grounds and the drive around through the zoo,” noting that the experience was well-paced and enjoyable.

The guide’s involvement was generally praised, but some felt that the guide could be a bit more engaged. Still, the overall impression was very positive, especially regarding the well-maintained grounds and the ease of exploring at your own pace.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers: families with kids, wanting a fun and educational day; couples looking for a mix of culture and wildlife; and groups of friends seeking an easy, all-in-one outing. Its flexibility and variety make it a great choice for those new to Melbourne or visitors short on time but eager to see diverse sights.

The Sum Up

This tour from Melbourne offers a satisfying combination of historic elegance and wild African adventure that appeals to a variety of interests. The self-guided mansion tour provides a relaxed way to enjoy Australia’s heritage, while the safari bus gives you a thrilling glimpse into wildlife right in Victoria.

The friendly guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtful pacing ensure you get a lot out of your day without feeling rushed. Although lunch isn’t included, the option to bring a picnic or grab a bite at the zoo makes it flexible and budget-friendly.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking value, convenience, and diverse experiences in a single day. Whether you’re a history buff, animal lover, or family looking for a memorable outing, this tour covers all bases.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children aged 5 and above. The experience is family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for kids to see animals and explore the mansion.

What is included in the price?
The price covers entry into Werribee Mansion and the zoo, the safari bus ride, bottled water, transportation from and back to Melbourne, and a fun, knowledgeable guide.

Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunch is not included, so you should budget $20-$30 if eating at the zoo’s café or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the gardens.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts up to 7 hours, typically departing around 9:30 am and returning by 5 pm.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the mansion and gardens. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Can I upgrade to include special animal experiences?
Yes, optional behind-the-scenes wildlife experiences are available starting from +$40 per person, but these are not part of the standard tour.

How many people typically join?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the transportation suggests a small to medium group, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there any seasonal consideration?
Yes, the gardens and flowers at the mansion change with the seasons. Some reviews noted that flowers might not always be in bloom depending on the time of year.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour from Melbourne is a well-rounded, value-packed way to enjoy a day filled with history and wildlife. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Werribee without the hassle of organizing multiple separate visits.