Iconic Sydney landmark Taronga Zoo knows how to do an event well. Whether it’s their Twilight at Taronga concert series or their jam-packed school holiday program, you know you’re in for stunning harbour views, beautiful animals and fun, immersive exhibitions.
Their new late-night event is no exception. After Dark takes Taronga to new levels, showing it in a striking new light by illuminating the grounds with vibrant colours and huge wildlife-themed lanterns. Open from 5:30pm until 9pm, the experience invites guests to soak up the sunset over one of Sydney’s most breathtaking views, before exploring the zoo at night and heading to one of their exciting shows.
I headed over to Mosman for the opening night of After Dark, drawn in by the promise of an Archie Rose Sunset Bar, live music and their iconic seal show at sunset. Here’s how my evening unfolded.
1. Make sure you catch a ferry
My first piece of advice for heading to Taronga After Dark is to hop on the F2 ferry from Circular Quay. Depending on which ferry you catch (they depart at 5:15pm, 5:45pm and 6:15pm) you might be able to catch the sunset and see the Sydney skyline bathed in orange.
The ferry takes roughly 12-15 minutes, so if you want to get there with plenty of time to spare, your best bet is the one that departs at 5:15pm. At Taronga Wharf, a bus will pick you up and take you to the main entrance, where the evening truly starts.
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2. Grab a drink at the Archie Rose Sunset Bar
The perfect place to kick off the night, the Archie Rose Sunset Bar offers their popular gins, a range of wines and beers, as well as bespoke cocktails made just for the occasion or delicious pre-mixed cocktail cans. We opted for their rose gin and blackberry soda, before soaking in the dwindling sunset and listening to the live musician, who is set up next to the bar.
3. See the Seals at Sunset Show
The Sunset Seals for the Wild presentation kicks off at 7pm, introducing visitors to Taronga’s graceful seals, many of which have been rescued and rehabilitated at the zoo. Featuring Australian sea lions, California sea lions, and long-nosed fur seals, the adorable show allows the fascinating creatures to showcase their natural abilities and educate the crowd about the marine environment. With daylight savings now in place, the show will be set against the stunning sunset backdrop of Sydney Harbour, meaning you’ll be able to watch adorable rescue seal Bondi dive and jump in front of the orange skyline.
4. Head to Tiger Trek
Tiger Trek, one of Taronga’s most beloved exhibitions, glows in a striking red light during Taronga After Dark. Wander around the immersive display and marvel at the huge, stunning cats, who bask in the light and watch the visitors pass by. Learn about the danger that deforestation poses to the Way Kambas National Park. You can even send an email to a company, urging them to use sustainable palm oil or congratulating them for the changes they’re making to decrease deforestation.
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5. Grab some yum cha at the food trucks
After Dark has plenty of delicious food options, from fresh lemonade to barbequed meat and yum cha. We grabbed eight chicken and prawn dumplings for $16, though you could also grab BBQ bao buns or spring rolls for similar pricing. There’s also a Lemonada stand, a go-to for a refreshing and zesty lemonade, as well as Le Crookie, a dessert stand inspired by Paris and Dubai, and therefore a perfect place to grab a sweet treat as a reward for battling Taronga’s hills.
6. Go to Arc After Dark
Taronga’s Amphibian and Reptile Experience remains open during Taronga After Dark, featuring huge pythons, tiny tree frogs and prehistoric-looking alligator snapper turtles. Zookeepers are stationed throughout the trail to share fascinating insights about the animals, while you’re free to wander at your own pace and admire all 42 illuminated creatures. There’s also the opportunity to listen to informative and engaging talks each night, at 5:45pm and 8:15pm, the perfect opportunity to learn about the beautiful (but sometimes dangerous) creatures in the Arc.
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7. Snap pictures of the stunning lanterns and lights
Lanterns depicting various animals line the trails around the zoo — make sure to spot the tiger, koala, platypus and kangaroo (which is positioned in front of the best harbour view). There are also plenty of opportunities to take funky photos throughout the zoo, as colourful lights guide the way to displays and light up play areas for children.
Highlights for kids
While Taronga After Dark is a fun night out for all ages, there are also special activities just for kids, making it one of the most exciting ways to spend the school holidays.
1. Watch a Mermaid Show
This magical live water show revolves around a quirky pirate explorer’s quest to spot a real mermaid, and takes young visitors into a world of magic, curiosity and fun. Watch as the mermaids swim elegantly around the tank and interact with guests in the beautifully lit open-air theatre. Catch this show at 6:15pm and 7:45pm, and enjoy being immersed in this mythical world.
2. Wild Ropes
Add on a Wild Ropes Treetop Adventure for $15 and experience a night climb as you swing and balance your way through the high ropes course as it glows under the night sky. Perfect for the more adventurous visitors, you’ll be able to see the zoo from new heights as you journey through the course.
3. Fluro Fun Zone
Kids can expend all their energy with a run around the lit-up Fluro Fun Zone playground, which features stunning, dynamic light projections cast over one of Taronga’s most popular play areas. You can even take the fun up a notch with glow-in-the-dark face painting, perfect for kids who want to shine under the night lights.
Taronga After Dark
Where: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
When: Friday, October 3 to Saturday, October 12, 5:30pm-9pm.
Price: Adults: $41, Children: $36, Concession: $37.80, Children under 3: Free.
To book your tickets, click here.
