8 of the best zoo sleepovers in Australia

Jamala Wildlife Lodge, ACT

Take cat napping to the next level at Jamala Wildlife Lodge in Canberra. This luxury eco-retreat allows you to eat, sleep and observe some of the jungle’s most ferocious creatures from the comfort of a glamorous, glass-walled bungalow. Lock eyes with Malayan sun bears while you’re taking a bath, chill out with a cheetah in your bedroom or lie down with a lion (on opposite sides of the window, of course). Plus, you still have all the creature comforts of a boutique hotel, including a king bed, bathrobes, freestanding bath tub, wifi, MP3 music system and free Foxtel. Welcome to the jungle, indeed.

Werribee Open Range Zoo, Victoria

Have an Out of Africa adventure with a Slumber Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo. This fully hosted slumber party is the ultimate glamping experience, where guests are treated to a range of wild and wonderful animal encounters. Kick off your animal expedition with a guided safari tour before being whisked away for sunset sips followed by a sustainable African-inspired dinner. Round out the evening by toasting marshmallows around a savannah-side campfire while being serenaded by the dulcet roar of lions before retreating to your boutique glamp site. Each luxury-equipped tent comes kitted out with its own ensuite, bedding and bath linen, and a purpose-built balcony that looks out over the zoo’s sweeping plains – perfect for watching the world wake up the next morning. All this at just 30minutes’ drive from Melbourne.

Taronga Zoo, NSW

Step into the lion’s den with a Roar and Snore experience at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. This starry safari allows you to get acquainted with some of the zoo’s most affable furry friends – including red pandas, Sumatran tigers and even sea lion pups. As dusk begins to fall, you’ll be treated to twilight tipples and canapes against the twinkling backdrop of Sydney Harbour, then you can drift off to the sounds of the zoo’s animal orchestra. And though you’re in the thick of Sydney’s urban forest (complete with spectacular city views from your lavish tent), the critter cacophony ensures there are plenty of jungle vibes.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, NSW

Wake up in the Wild, literally, at Taronga's Western Plains Zoo. This Dubbo adventure is beyond your wildest imagination. Depending on your budget – and how brave you’re feeling – you can choose from three accommodation options that will put you almost in arm’s reach of giraffes, zebras, rhinos and other wildlife. Sit out on the back deck of your Zoofari Lodge and be mesmerised by the myriad animals wandering around, or have a roaring time at the Billabong Camp, where you’ll be right next to the Lion Pride Lands.

Mansfield Zoo, Victoria

Camp out with animals in their natural habitat at Mansfield Zoo. This back-to-basics sleepout asks you to pack a swag, pick a snuggly spot within the zoo’s grounds and BYO camping gear for a personalised slumber party, where you’ll be serenaded to sleep by the snore of lions, the hum of llamas or the distant patter of possums as they skip and scurry among the native bushland. In the morning, instead of waking up to a rooster crowing, it will be the startling sound of camels bleating that will have you sleepily unzipping your swag and embracing the fresh, wild air.

Melbourne Zoo, Victoria

Get up to all the monkey business at a Melbourne Zoo Roar ’n’ Snore sleepover. Enjoy a sensory and sumptuous dinner in the Elephant House while listening to wild and wonderful animal stories, then set off with a torch as you explore the zoo after dark. After supper, retreat to your private tent, where you’ll be snoozing overnight in the historic elephant exhibit. Awake to the sound of gibbons and birds chirping, then fuel up before a day of animal encounters, wildlife talks and roaming around the grounds.

Wings Wildlife Park, Tasmania

For a more free-range zoological adventure, Tasmania’s Wings Wildlife Park has it all. Base yourself on the banks of the Leven River, which flows through the park, then pull out the fishing rods or pull on your hiking boots and get ready to explore the local flora and fauna. Some powered sites and picnic shelters are available, and there is also a swap-and-go gas bottle depot. You can even take a walk through the animal farm, where there are buffalo, bison, camels, alpacas, emus, deer and more.

SEA LIFE, Queensland

Although not technically a zoo, there's nothing at all fishy about a sleepover at SEA LIFE Aquarium. Take a deep dive into an underwater world with the Sunshine Coast acquarium's thrilling Sleep Under the Sharks experience. Roll out your sleeping back in the ocean tunnel and see what sharks and sting rays get up to once the lights go out. The after dark adventure also includes an exclusive seal presentation.