Stage
Early Stage 1 – Stage 6
Self-guided school excursions
Things to know
Learning areas
Science, Geography, HSIE, Indigenous perspectivesProgram details
There is no set duration for a self-guided visit. We recommend allowing 3–5 hours to explore the Zoo at your own pace.Cost
$14.00 per student for NSW Government Schools, or $16.00 per student for non-NSW Government Schools.
About
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s self‑guided school excursions immerse students in an unforgettable safari‑style learning experience, empowering them to explore the Zoo’s 5km open‑range circuit at their own pace while observing animals in expansive, naturalistic habitats.
This flexible excursion format allows teachers to tailor the day to their specific learning outcomes, and is supported by a suite of curriculum‑linked teaching resources designed to enhance learning before, during and after the visit, helping students meaningfully connect classroom theory with real‑world wildlife conservation .
Self-guide resources
Use these self-guided learning resources to explore the Zoo. Each activity is curriculum-linked and stage-aligned.
Stage 3: Math trail
Students will work in small groups while they explore the zoo as a class and draw on their understanding of mathematical concepts, to solve mathematical problems posed in the work booklet.
Stage 4: Math trail
Students will work in small groups while they explore the zoo as a class and draw on their understanding of mathematical concepts, to solve mathematical problems posed in the work booklet.
Optional excursion extras
Make your Zoo excursion even more unforgettable with our optional add‑on activities and catering packages.
To include an add‑on, simply select your preferred options in the excursion booking form, or contact our Education Team to add them to an existing booking.
Nature journal activity booklet
Enhance your self‑guided excursion with a Nature Journaling adventure, using a beautifully illustrated booklet created by ecologist Dr Paula Peeters and educator Kelly Pfeiffer. Students observe animals and plants, sketch, record notes, identify wild birds and native trees, and explore animal form and behaviour as they move through the Zoo. Suitable for Stages 3–5.
$5 per booklet (A5 size)
Bike hire
Turn your excursion into an cycling adventure. Hire bikes and explore the Zoo’s five kilometre circuit at your own pace. It’s an active, exciting way for students to discover our habitats and see animals from a whole new perspective.
$10.00 per person
Savannah Safari bus tour
Hop aboard the safari truck for a guided journey across the expansive African savannah. Your class will get close‑up to rhinos and Giraffes while listening to fascinating commentary.
$10 per person
Guided Zoo circuit tour
Get immersive knowledge from an expert guide as they join you on your own coach for a 2 hour round trip of the Zoo Circuit.
$82.50 per guide (one guide per bus)
Book a self-guide excursion
Book your self-guide excursion online today and confirm your final student numbers closer to your visit date.
Get in touch
Call
Email
