Bali Zoo – An Unforgettable Adventure for Aussie Families
G’day, fellow Aussies! If you’re planning a family holiday to Bali, let me introduce you to one of the island’s hidden gems that promises an unforgettable experience for both kids and parents: Bali Zoo. This isn’t just any ordinary zoo; it’s a place where you can get up close and personal with exotic animals, indulge in unique experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s a tale of our day at Bali Zoo, filled with roaring adventures and muddy fun.
A Warm Welcome and Wild Encounters: Our adventure began with a warm Balinese welcome at the entrance, where we were greeted by friendly staff who handed out maps and explained the layout of the zoo. The excitement in the air was palpable as we made our way to the first exhibit.
Bali Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals from around the world, and the beautifully landscaped grounds make it feel like you’re wandering through a tropical paradise. The kids were immediately captivated by the vibrant parrots and cheeky monkeys, but the highlight for them was undoubtedly feeding the animals.
Feeding a White Bengal Tiger: One of the most thrilling experiences at Bali Zoo is the opportunity to feed a White Bengal Tiger. Yes, you read that right! Under the careful supervision of trained zookeepers, we got to hand-feed this majestic creature. The kids’ eyes were wide with awe (and maybe a little bit of fear) as the tiger approached, its powerful muscles rippling under its pristine white coat. Watching this magnificent animal up close, feeling its hot breath as it gently took the food from our hands, was a heart-pounding experience that none of us will ever forget. It was a perfect mix of excitement and education, as the zookeepers shared fascinating facts about tiger conservation and the challenges these beautiful creatures face in the wild.
Elephant Mud Fun: Next up was the much-anticipated Elephant Mud Fun, an activity that had been the topic of enthusiastic discussion for weeks leading up to our trip. We were led to a special area where we met the gentle giants – a family of Sumatran elephants. The kids squealed with delight as they saw the elephants splashing around in three large mud pits, and it wasn’t long before we joined them.
Rolling up our sleeves, we got right into the muddy action, scrubbing and washing them. The elephants seemed to enjoy the interaction as much as we did, playfully spraying us with water from their trunks. The mud, surprisingly cool and smooth, added an element of fun that transcended ages – we were all kids again, slipping and sliding alongside these magnificent creatures. After the mud bath, we got to feed the elephants, offering them bananas, carrots and cucumbers, which they accepted with surprising delicacy considering their size.
Educational and Entertaining: Bali Zoo isn’t just about fun and games; it’s a place of learning and discovery. Throughout our visit, we encountered numerous informative displays and interactive exhibits that taught us about the animals’ habitats, diets, and conservation efforts. The zookeepers were always on hand to answer questions and provide deeper insights, making the experience both educational and engaging for the whole family.
Dining in the Wild: Exploring the zoo worked up quite an appetite, and fortunately, Bali Zoo has several dining options that cater to all tastes. We decided to have lunch at the onsite restaurant, which offers a mix of local Balinese cuisine and international dishes. Dining amidst the lush greenery with the sounds of wildlife in the background was a unique and enjoyable experience. The kids loved the novelty of spotting animals while munching on their chicken nuggets, and we parents savoured the delicious nasi goreng and fresh fruit juices. For those looking for an earlier dining experience you can opt for breakfast with the orangutans!
Kid-Friendly Amenities: For families with young children, Bali Zoo is a dream come true. The zoo is equipped with stroller-friendly paths, clean restrooms, and ample seating areas where you can take a break and relax. There are also several playgrounds scattered throughout the zoo, allowing the little ones to burn off some energy while parents take a breather. Also an amazing water park, so don’t forget to pack the kids swimmers so they can partake in the fun!
The Nocturnal Experience: If you’re looking for something a bit different, Bali Zoo also offers a Night at the Zoo experience. While we didn’t try this ourselves, however we heard rave reviews from fellow visitors. The nocturnal tour includes a guided walk through the zoo at night, a dinner show, and the chance to see animals that are more active after dark. It sounds like a fantastic adventure and is definitely on our list for next time!
Wrapping Up the Day: As the sun began to set, we made our way to the souvenir shop, where the kids picked out adorable stuffed animals and other mementos to remember their day. On the way out, we reflected on the experiences we’d shared – the thrill of feeding a tiger, the joy of splashing in the mud with elephants, and the wonder of discovering new animals.
Conclusion: Bali Zoo offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and family fun. For Aussie parents planning a trip to Bali, this zoo should be at the top of your itinerary. It’s more than just a zoo; it’s a place where you can connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation, and create unforgettable family memories. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a wild adventure that will have your kids talking about it long after you’ve returned home. Bali Zoo awaits!