If you’re looking for a family experience that’s equal parts adventure, education and relaxation, the Slumber Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo is one you’ll never forget. We recently stayed overnight as a family of five (two adults and three kids aged 11, 11 and 10), and it was nothing short of magical.
The Arrival & Check-in
We checked in at the Safari Hut at 2.15pm sharp, where the warm and friendly staff greeted us with refreshments and a quick briefing. From there, it was straight into the adventure.
Our lodge was more than we expected – a luxury tented suite with its own private ensuite, electricity, heating/cooling, and even electric blankets. We also had direct access from the campsite into the zoo and car park, making it super easy to explore.
Day One: Safari, Rhino Experience & Campfire Fun
Safari Tour: Riding through the open savannah, we spotted giraffes, zebras, antelope, rhinos and more roaming freely. The kids were amazed to see these animals up close, while our guide shared fascinating facts that had them hooked.
Animal Experience – Rhino Encounter: The highlight for the kids was meeting a Southern White Rhinoceros and his keeper. They loved making special treat boxes for him to forage through, learning how enrichment activities keep him stimulated.
We discovered that the Southern White Rhinoceros, also called the ‘square-lipped rhinoceros,’ is the largest of the rhino families.
They love to wallow in mud, which acts as sunscreen, insect repellent and even antiseptic. Their horns are made of keratin – the same material as human fingernails and hair.
African-Inspired Dinner & Campfire:
Dinner was an African-inspired feast with plenty of choice: African Peri Peri boneless chicken Maryland, Slow cooked beef meatballs in tomato sauce with pecorino and fresh herbs, Moroccan spiced lamb open kebabs, Winter vegetable & chickpea coconut curry all Served alongside hearty sides like charred corn cobs, chermoula spiced pumpkin, Lyonnaise potatoes with caramelised onion, steamed jasmine rice, and finished with dessert and a seasonal fruit platter.
For the kids, the zoo provided a dedicated children’s menu with burgers, nuggets and fresh fruit salad – simple, tasty and a big hit with our three.
Campfire: After dinner, we gathered around the campfire, toasted marshmallows, and told stories under the stars – a truly unforgettable family moment.
Night Stroll: Torches in hand, we explored the zoo after dark at our own pace along the trails. We spotted koalas, possums, cheetahs and more. Experiencing the zoo at night was such a unique and exciting adventure for the kids.
Day Two: Breakfast & Hippo Adventure
We woke to the sounds of the savannah and the incredible roars of the lions at a distance from outside our window. After a delicious hot breakfast, we headed off for another animal encounter.
Breakfast: The spread was impressive, with something for everyone:
Continental: assorted cereals, seasonal fruit platter, bread selection with condiments (butter, jam, honey, vegemite), and fruit juices. Hot: fried free-range eggs, crispy bacon, mushrooms, spinach, hash browns, chicken chipolatas, house-baked beans, and pancakes with maple syrup.
Animal Experience – Hippo Encounter: This time, it was all about the hippos! We went behind the scenes with a keeper to meet the zoo’s trio – Primrose, Tulip and Lotus.
The kids loved watching them being fed dinner and learning how the keepers prepare them for their nocturnal adventures.
We learnt about their unique personalities, how training keeps them healthy, and just how majestic these animals are both in and out of the water.
Even after the Slumber Safari experience concluded mid-morning, we still had full access to the zoo for the rest of the day, making it the perfect way to finish off our stay.
Why We Recommend It
All-inclusive: Accommodation, meals, tours and animal encounters are all covered.
Educational & fun: The kids learnt so much about wildlife and conservation in hands-on ways.
Unique setting: Sleeping in a luxury lodge, waking to hearing animals outside your window, and exploring the zoo at night makes this feel like a true African safari – without leaving Victoria.
Every ticket also supports Zoos Victoria’s vital conservation work, helping to protect endangered species for the future.
For families looking for an adventure that combines fun, learning and unforgettable memories, the Slumber Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo is a must.
More info visit www.zoo.org.au
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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