Taronga Zoo

Perched high on Bradley's Head, on the northern edge of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo first opened its gates in 1916. For over 100 years, it has grown into one of the world's leading conservation research facilities and the heart of the not-for-profit Taronga Conservation Society Australia. Every entry ticket sold helps save wildlife across Australia and the globe.

Taronga cares for over 5,000 animals from over 350 species, many of which are threatened, ranging from Sumatran Tigers to seals. And at every turn, there’s the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.

Each year for Vivid Sydney, Taronga lights up for a very special cause. Wild Lights will bathe the zoo in a rainbow of colour with innovative, thoughtful installations and breathtaking projections. Shining a light on wildlife conservation, Wild Lights encourages visitors to think about the role they can play in preserving these majestic creatures and their habitats.

How to get there: Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay and ferries depart every 30 minutes. Other cruise companies also operate regular services from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and Manly. From the wharf, the 238 bus takes you to Taronga’s entrance. You can also catch the 100 bus from the Queen Victoria Building in the CBD and the journey takes around half an hour.