I think there are more than 20 there now ... I thought I heard them say 40 ... but I might be wrong. Either way, it's by far the largest group in Australia and one of the largest groups in the world (in a zoo that is).
They have pretty good success breeding too - there was a 2-day old when I was there plus several other young in the herd.
I like the viewing platforms - gives you a good overview of the whole area and is covered to keep the sun (and occasionally rain) off.
One of the best things about the Monarto Zoo is that they have finally started building more viewing platforms for the public, even though some of the platforms can still only be accessed via jumping off the bus tour. Is that correct?
One of the best things about the Monarto Zoo is that they have finally started building more viewing platforms for the public, even though some of the platforms can still only be accessed via jumping off the bus tour. Is that correct?
No, the bus tour doesn't stop anywhere to set down / pick up passengers - it starts and stops at the visitor centre.
However, they do now have a shuttle bus service which runs between the various viewing platforms. You can get on and off wherever you want.
There are also walking tracks to each of the viewing platforms now, which wind their way through the Mallee scrub. I really enjoyed walking around the zoo when I was there - it was very peaceful and I was able to stop and look at the animals and wildlife along the way.
The only problem with this is that to walk all of the tracks and spend time at each of the viewing platforms will now take you all day - especially with the new lion platform being so far away.
Once they have the new expansion area up and running I think it will be impossible to walk the entire zoo in a day - but I think it would be amazing to stay there (I know they are planning accommodation) and get up early to wander down to the savannah and watch the animals.
