Ever wanted to wake to the sound of zebras running around right outside your door? What about giraffes enjoying their morning feast? Well, you don’t even need to leave the state for this once in a lifetime experience. Let me introduce you to the Zoofari Lodge at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, NSW.

This luxury zoo stay package is great for both kids and adults, and it truly is an extraordinary experience.

Located on the grounds of Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Zoofari Lodge is all about giving you the best (and most luxurious) experience. Your accommodation package includes not only one of the best night’s getaways in your own luxurious African-style canvas lodge, but two full days admission into the zoo, an exclusive walking tour with a Zoo guide, African inspired dinner and breakfast, one-day bicycle hire, and discounts for the souvenir shop and Zoo Café & Bar.

Whilst the inclusions are certainly important, it’s your experience at the lodge that is what you book for. Positioned right beside a stunning savannah, your neighbours for the night include giraffes, rhinos, zebra, and antelope!

Choose from either an Animal View lodge or a Bushland Lodge. Our advice? That little bit extra for the Animal View Lodge is absolutely worth every single penny.

The Animal View Lodges can sleep up to four people and includes a comfy King Bed and a double sofa bed. Allowing guests prime viewing from your own personal deck, you can spot all of the animals of Taronga’s Savannah.

The private ensuite comes complete with a huge bathtub, walk-in shower, toilet, double basin, and supplied toiletries. Bedding, linen, and towels are supplied as well as air-conditioning, mini-bar, fridge, coffee and tea making facilities and the all-important shaded verandah overlooking the savannah.

The Bushland Lodges can sleep up to six people with a queen bed, two singles, and a sofa bed. Including all of the same Animal View Lodge amenities, Bushland Lodges sit amongst native bushland and are just a short stroll to common viewing areas overlooking the giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and antelope.

Whilst the shell of both lodges are made from canvas, this is much more than camping; think glamping but with a unique edge.

Nestled away from the Savannah is the Guest House, where all guests can gather to have a quiet drink, indulge in an elegant African inspired meal, sit with a coffee in the lounge area, or even take a dip in the saltwater swimming pool.

Whatever time of the year you book a stay at Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Zoofari Lodges, remember to keep your eyes peeled for animals wandering the accommodation grounds. We were super lucky to spot a very friendly peacock called George! If you’re game, try feeding him!

Check-in to your lodge from 3pm and watch the sunset behind the Savannah. Sit and take in the atmosphere before heading up to The Guest House for your African Inspired Dinner. Dish upon dish is served before you with tantalising flavours with an extensive beverage list to match.

Retreat back to your luxury lodge and tuck yourself in for a night of bliss. Our tip? Keep your blinds open so you can catch the sunrise sweeping its way through your front windows; it’s the perfect photo op.

Wander over to The Guest House for some breakfast before joining your own exclusive walking guide, kicking off with the experience worth waiting for; giraffe feeding. Yes, you read that right. If the giraffes are feeling friendly, they’ll come by the fence and with the help of a zoo guide, you’ll have your chance to get up close and personal with some of the savannah’s resident giraffes.

To wrap up your stay, spend the morning wandering the zoo with your dedicated guide before the zoo opens to the public. Meet some of the cheeky residents and get some behind the scenes information straight from the Taronga Western Plains Zoo team.

The retreat into Taronga’s wild is an unforgettable experience for all, book your safari getaway at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Zoofari Lodge here.