Taronga Zoo❜s Sky Safari is Set to Ride Again

Have you recently visited Taronga Zoo and noticed something missing from it's iconic skyline? After 35 years of living the high life, Taronga Zoo's famous cable car, aka the Sky Safari, sadly whisked its last passengers high above the zoo's lush grounds and animal enclosures in January 2023. But, it's gearing up to make a triumphant return! 

The Sky Safari at Taronga Zoo is set to ride again, and it's going to be better than ever. Here's what we know so far. 

Taronga Zoo's Sky Safari Set to Ride Again

A Little Sky-High History

First installed in 1987 and upgraded in 2000, the Sky Safari quickly became a must-do experience at Taronga Zoo. For 35 glorious years, it offered visitors breathtaking views of the zoo, Sydney Harbour, and beyond—until its retirement at the end of January 2023. With time catching up to the beloved ride, the Taronga team knew it was time for a new chapter, and so it was out with the old and in with the new-and-improved.

What's New?

The new Sky Safari is set to revolutionise our zoo adventures. The existing gondolas, which previously couldn't accommodate wheelchairs, will be replaced with brand-new, larger, and fully accessible gondolas—perfect for families, prams, wheelchairs, and anyone needing a little extra space. The new cable cars will allow enough space to fit 6-10 visitors.

The new cable cars will follow the same iconic route, connecting the recently upgraded Taronga Zoo ferry wharf with the zoo's main entrance. That means you can now take in the zoo from above, whether you're just arriving or heading home after a day of animal-filled fun. The zoo will also increase the daily rides schedule, which means more opportunities to soar above the treetops - yay!

The Taronga Conservation Society of Australia are partnering with Studio SC architects to ensure the Sky Safari is not only functional but also fabulous. Along with the resized gondolas, the upgrades will include two sleek new stations, upgraded amenities, and thoughtfully designed landscaping that complements the zoo's stunning natural setting.

When Will the New Sky Safari Open?

Taronga Zoo's new Sky Safari is bringing the magic back—and we can't wait to ride it again!

Pending planning approval, construction of the new Sky Safari will begin in late 2025 ahead of a planned opening in 2027-2028.

More Upgrades For Taronga

There are even more upgrades on the horizon for Taronga Sydney AND Taronga Western Plains.

Dubbo's favourite zoo are rolling out the luxury red carpet with several upgrades, including safari accommodations, a function centre, a cafe, and even a brand-new pool! 

Back in Sydney, Taronga are also building Australia's first specialist wildlife veterinary teaching hospital. Taronga is one of the biggest contributors to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation in NSW, and as such are gearing up to significantly increase their capacity to care for and treat wildlife species by expanding their existing hospital. The new hospital will also increase the current teaching space in order to upskill even more conservationists, students, veterinary practitioners, scientists, and wildlife carers than they already do. All of this is in addition to the newly opened Amphibian and Reptile Centre that invites visitors to get up close to 42 creatures that jump, slither and crawl, like the Tuatara, Alligator Snapping Turtle, the Inland Taipan, and the largest reticulated Python in Australia.

What Else is New in Sydney?

Check Out the New Oran Park Leisure Centre
The Picton Botanic Gardens All-Abilities Playspace Opens
The Beachhouse is Bondi's New Slow House and Gym Hybrid

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