Yarra Valley Zoo
📍 Mount Evelyn, VIC
Small, guided native wildlife zoo in Mount Evelyn focused on up-close animal encounters with Australian species. NDIS-supported program with knowledgeable guides. Free entry unlocked with a spend at the affiliated Yarra Valley Bush Cafe in Croydon.
We recently visited the Yarra Valley Nocturnal zoo and the experience was absolutely wonderful! From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel special. Samuel, Leah, and Kathy were incredibly friendly and welcoming. They guided us through the tour with such enthusiasm, sharing fascinating and important information about each animal we were introduced to. Their knowledge and warmth truly enhanced the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The highlight of our day was definitely the chance to interact with the kangaroo and the koala bear. Getting up close with these iconic animals was unforgettable and gave us memories we’ll cherish for a long time. Overall, the combination of friendly staff, engaging guidance, and unique animal encounters made this zoo visit one of the best we’ve ever had. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun and informative day out! 🦘🐨🐎🐐🫏🦥🦢🕊🐸🐢🐍🐊
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with young children who want close animal contact in a relaxed, guided setting. The knowledgeable guides actively engage kids throughout the tour. Combine with a meal at the Yarra Valley Bush Cafe for the free entry benefit. Suits a half-day outer-east Melbourne outing.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →41 Google reviews
Rufus Cardoso
4 months ago
“We recently visited the Yarra Valley Nocturnal zoo and the experience was absolutely wonderful! From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel special. Samuel, Leah, and Kathy were incredibly friendly and welcoming. They guided us through the tour with such enthusiasm, sharing fascinating and important information about each animal we were introduced to. Their knowledge and warmth truly enhanced the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The highlight of our day was definitely the chance to interact with the kangaroo and the koala bear. Getting up close with these iconic animals was unforgettable and gave us memories we’ll cherish for a long time. Overall, the combination of friendly staff, engaging guidance, and unique animal encounters made this zoo visit one of the best we’ve ever had. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun and informative day out! 🦘🐨🐎🐐🫏🦥🦢🕊🐸🐢🐍🐊”
Tom Miatke
5 months ago
“We had a truly wonderful time at this zoo. It was a lot more intimate and personal, and with the added bonus of seeing up close and touching a lot of the animals, my daughters had the time of their life. The guides were great and the whole thing was awesome. Absolutely recommended if you want to be up and close to some of Australia’s awesome wildlife.”
Dean
6 months ago
“Excellent zoo mainly focused on native animals with a great program for zoo keepers with multiple talents from the surrounding community with the help of NDIS funding. Well worth a tour. Kids love it. Entrance and some parking are located on Littlejohn Ave. Check it out.”
Leanne Walker
6 months ago
“According to the kids the best part of the zoo was ALL OF IT! They had a great time. The staff were very knowledgeable and friendly. We will be back for another tour.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Yarra Valley Zoo runs guided tours with a strong focus on native Australian animals and hands-on encounters — reviewers describe touching and interacting with animals directly. The zoo operates with NDIS funding and community-supported keeper programs. Entry is accessed via Littlejohn Ave. Free entry is available with a qualifying spend at the Yarra Valley Bush Cafe in Croydon. The intimate scale means a more personal experience than larger wildlife parks.
