There is an abundance of nature and wildlife experiences all around Melbourne. Confused as to which ones you should check out? Here are some of our recommendations on some of the places you cannot miss!
Melbourne Zoo
With over 320 species from all around the world, the Melbourne Zoo falls under the umbrella of Zoos Victoria, a world-leading organisation primarily focused on fighting wildlife extinction. With the hope to protect the future of animals and their home, some of the work they do includes breeding and recovery programmes.
Walkthrough zones such as Gorilla rainforest, Wild Sea, or even Trail of Elephants. Just on the right of the main entrance of the zoo is the Growing Wild zone with animals such as meerkats, giant tortoises, and brush turkeys. This exhibit focuses on animals that are on the brink of extinction with a focus on three zones - ground, tree, and water.
Additionally, be sure to check out the Australian Wildlife zone, home to some of Australia’s native animals such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. The keeper talks are the best way to learn more about the animals in the zoo and some of those animals include baboons, snow leopards, seals, and even the king of the jungle, lions.
Entry to the Melbourne Zoo costs $38 and you can get the tickets right here. You can choose to get the tickets online and skip the line or at the zoo itself!
Phillip Island
Just an approximate 2-hour drive away from Melbourne, Phillip Island encompasses both nature and wildlife. The aboriginal Bunurong tribe were the first inhabitants of Philip. With the development of the bridge in 1971, it opened up the island for more tourists.
There are various activities to enjoy and places to visit for an even exciting time on the island itself. The Koala reserve allows you to get up close and personal with Koalas in their natural habitat. This ecotourism attraction focuses on koala conservation. You can watch the Koalas on the treetop boardwalks or take a walk on the Woodland Walk amongst different species of Australian wildlife like Wallabies, possums, snakes, and even koalas
Penguin Parade
The Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s most popular attractions. During sunset, the little penguins will be returning ashore after a day of fishing. Be sure to catch the world’s smallest penguins in their natural habitat from viewing stands or the boardwalks.
The Nobbies
The Nobbies, otherwise known as sea rocks are home to the largest Australian fur colony in the country. While taking a walk on the boardwalk, you would come across the blowhole, which is a sea cave that thunders during southern swells. The sea bird garden also offers flora and fauna displays.
Alternatively, you choose to go on a whale discovery trail or a bird-watching trail. The first being an exciting way to spot whales and learn more about them on the various coastal viewing points. The latter, the opportunity to look out for birds such as migrating shearwater birds or Cape Barren Geese who have pink legs and yellow beaks.
Churchill Island
Just off Phillip Island, this historic island is an important place in the history of European settlement in Victoria. The island has been farmed since the 1850s and was purchased by the former mayor of Melbourne, Samuel Amess in 1872.
The restored farmhouses and cottages in Churchill Island provide a glimpse into the past lives of early Australian settlers and past farming practices. It is now open to the public as a historic working farm. One that promotes natural and cultural values with wetlands, Moonah trees, heritage gardens, and historic buildings.
Flagstaff Gardens
Located right in the heart of the city, Flagstaff Gardens is one of the oldest parks in Melbourne. Flagstaff Gardens has been reserved as parklands since 1862 and it was originally Melbourne’s first cemetery. It is one of the most visited and widely used parks in Melbourne with features such as rose beds, elm trees, tennis courts, sculptures, and electric barbeques.
Flagstaff Gardens has been listed by the Australian Heritage Commission and the Victorian Heritage Register. It is the perfect place to end your day with a little picnic in the park or just a walk to soak in the sights of Melbourne City.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
This remarkable garden was founded in 1846 and is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. With a focus on the conversation of plants, it has a diverse plant collection. From camellias, rainforest flora, cacti, roses, and even plants from Southern China, this garden has it all. The Royal Botanic Gardens also acts as a natural sanctuary for native wildlife.
Some of its other features include vistas, lakes, and even a children’s garden with plant tunnels and a bamboo forest for kids to explore and learn more about the gardens. The Gardens is a treasured part of cultural life and a valuable asset to Melbourne.
If you happen to be in Melbourne during the summer, do keep a lookout on their website as the garden comes alive with an outdoor cinema, theatre performances, and even exhibitions.
