Taronga Zoo

What they say: Taronga Zoo is the nation's leading zoological garden, featuring Australia's finest collection of native animals and a diverse collection of exotic species. What makes Taronga something special is its location. It is situated on elevated land along the waterfront, in one of the most beautiful vantage points on Sydney Harbour overlooking Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.

What I say: First opened in 1916 the zoo retains its Victorian feeling entrance but once inside it is a modern and well thought out zoo. Spread out over a large hillside overlooking Sydney Harbour it is zoned into Great Southern Oceans, Reptile World, Wild Australian, Australian Nightlife, Backyard to bush, African waterhole and Wild Asia They are also currently building a new state of the art elephant enclosure.
Many of the areas are walk through (rather than cages for the animals) for example the roos and wild bird aviary so you can get right up to the animals. Which is pretty cool. The Great Southern Oceans exhibition - which is newly opened features seals and penguins as well as information about their habitat and lives. Fabulous view can be seen from the underground viewing windows in the caverns meaning you are not just restricted to peering into the top of a big tank and you can actually see the animals swimming around. If this is not enough fun for you then there is also a small man made beach with a spouting whale to play on.

Throughout the day are various talks and shows so you can get more insight into the animals lives - check at the information kiosk on the way in for full details. We caught the wild bird show and it was fun as well as informative.

The Taronga Food market is a bit of a let down, just the usual burgers, fries and pasta that you would get in any mall - but there are lots of places to picnic and this is a much more fun idea.
It also has some of the best view over the harbour to the bridge and Opera House and you get the added benefit of a giraffe in the foreground of your shot!

Where: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, Sydney. Parking is limited but taking public transport is so much more fun. There is a ferry from circular quay and then a gondola ride to the top. There are also several buses which go right to the top entrance.

When: 365 days a year from 9-5pm (which in my opinion is too early to close in summer)

How Much: Adults £39, Ankle biters (4-15) $19, or become a friend of the zoo and visit every day for $92 per adult