Zen In The Zoo

If you’re seeking a fresh way to experience Perth Zoo, the Zen In The Zoo tour offers a calming, mindful escape unlike typical zoo visits. Instead of just wandering past enclosures, this two-hour experience blends gentle yoga, guided walks through lush landscapes, and behind-the-scenes insights into one of Australia’s top zoos. Perfect for those wanting a restorative start to the day or a unique way to connect with nature, this tour promises tranquility amid wild surroundings.

Our review highlights three things to love: the unusual yoga session surrounded by animals, the chance to explore early morning wildlife in a quieter setting, and the refreshing cold-pressed juice that caps off the experience. A potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, back issues, or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for active, mobile guests looking for a gentle, mindful adventure.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wellness enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a different perspective on a zoo visit. If you enjoy combining relaxation with wildlife, the Zen In The Zoo tour might become a memorable highlight of your time in Perth.

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Key Points

Exclusive Morning Access: Enjoy the zoo in the quiet hours before it opens to the public.
Wellness Focus: A 45-minute beginner-friendly yoga session set in a stunning natural environment.
Wildlife Encounters: Stroll through rainforest, savannah, and Australian bushland, meeting animals like lions, meerkats, pandas, and koalas.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Learn about Perth Zoo’s conservation efforts and stories from knowledgeable guides.
Healthy Refreshments: A cold-pressed juice provides a nutritious boost after your activity.
Limited Accessibility: Tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Thoughtful Blend of Nature and Mindfulness

The Zen In The Zoo tour begins before the zoo officially opens, which is one of its biggest perks. This early access means you’ll experience the grounds at a peaceful, almost meditative time, free from the usual crowds. Walking through the rainforest as the first rays of sunlight pierce the canopy, you’ll hear the natural sounds of waking wildlife—chirping birds, distant roars, and rustling leaves—that set a tranquil tone for your morning.

The highlight for many is the 45-minute yoga session conducted in the presence of a gracious elephant. The yoga instructor, renowned for her beginner-friendly approach, guides you through gentle stretches, breathwork, and possibly sound healing, all in a setting that feels more like a private sanctuary than a busy zoo. Reviewers appreciated how the guides, including those who are first-aid trained, create a safe, supportive environment, making it accessible for newcomers to yoga.

As you continue your walk, you’ll traverse about 3 kilometers across diverse landscapes—rainforest, savannah, and Australian bushland. The guides share stories about the animals and the work behind the scenes. Authentic insights from guides like “the guides are really knowledgeable and make the stories about the animals so much more meaningful,” elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The animal encounters are well-curated: you might see lions lounging in the early morning calm, meerkats popping out of their burrows, or the adorable pandas and koalas nestled in treetops. The quieter hours mean more intimate views and fewer crowds, which many reviewers find enhances the connection with wildlife.

The tour wraps up with a cold-pressed juice, carefully crafted to refresh and hydrate you after the walk and yoga. This healthy finish is appreciated for its simplicity and quality, making the entire experience feel balanced and restorative rather than hectic.

Looking for more options in Perth? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Value and Practicalities

At $52 per person, the tour offers a different kind of zoo visit—more than just catching glimpses of animals; it’s about mindfulness, education, and nature connection. Compared to standard zoo tickets, which grant access to the entire park, this experience offers an exclusive, guided journey that includes expert insights and wellness activities.

The tour’s duration of two hours fits well into a morning schedule, allowing time afterward to explore the zoo further if desired. You can purchase general entry tickets at the zoo’s ticket office after your tour, should you want to stay longer and explore independently.

Transportation to the Perth Zoo is not included, so arriving by car or public transport is your best bet. Parking at Perth Zoo is usually available, but arriving early ensures a smooth start. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle—essentials for walking outdoors and staying protected in the sun.

While the yoga mat isn’t provided, the beginner-friendly nature of the session means you can wear comfortable clothes suitable for gentle stretching. As the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, back problems, or wheelchair users, it’s worth considering your mobility and health before booking.

Authentic Experiences and Guides

From the reviews, we know that the guides are not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable. Their stories add depth to the habitat descriptions, making the encounters feel personal and meaningful. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides are really dedicated and tell stories that bring the animals to life,” which helps make this tour more than a typical walk.

Participants also appreciated the opportunity to see animals in the early hours when they are most active, and the peaceful setting during yoga adds a layer of serenity that many find rare in a zoo environment. The presence of a natural soundtrack of bird calls and animal sounds during your practice enhances the sense of being part of nature rather than just observing it.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of wellness and wildlife, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities and gentle exercise. It’s perfect for people wanting a peaceful start to the day or a meaningful way to engage with nature on a deeper level.

It’s also suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling and learning about conservation efforts and zoo behind-the-scenes work. However, it’s less suitable for visitors with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to the physical nature of the walk and yoga.

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The Sum Up: A Refreshing Take on Zoo Visits

Zen In The Zoo offers a rare blend of mindfulness, education, and wildlife viewing in a natural setting. The early access, guided walks, and yoga session create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for anyone wanting to step away from the hustle and reconnect with nature at a gentle pace.

The tour’s value lies in its thoughtful design—combining physical activity with animal encounters and expert stories. Whether you’re a health-conscious traveler, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply after a peaceful morning, this experience delivers a memorable, authentic taste of Perth’s natural beauty.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning early-morning views make it a standout activity, especially for those who value quality over quantity in their wildlife encounters. While it’s not suitable for everyone, those who fit the profile will likely find this tour a refreshing and enriching addition to their Perth itinerary.

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FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is designed for adults and is not specified for children, especially considering the physical activity involved. Check with the provider about age restrictions if interested.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, as it involves walking and gentle yoga.

Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?
Yes, yoga mats are not provided, so bring your own if you want to be comfortable during the session.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for yoga and walking are recommended, along with a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.

Is transportation to the zoo included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Perth Zoo.

Can I stay longer after the tour?
Yes, after the guided experience, you can purchase general zoo tickets to explore more at your leisure.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as the experience is exclusive and only available at set times.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
Morning sessions usually start early and are available in the morning, capturing the zoo at its most peaceful and animal activity peak.