Perth Zoo with kids is the ultimate family day trip

The Perth Zoo has changed a lot since I was a kid. I loved it then, of course, especially seeing Tricia the elephant, but looking back, there was too much concrete and too many bars. These days, it is a far more delightful place for the animals and an even more enjoyable destination for families.

Whenever my son persuades me to take him to the Perth Zoo – which is pretty often – we head first for the most distance point, the gibbons. They are at the top of a pretty steep hill, a little challenging with a pram, but once you’ve made it, the rest of the zoo is either downhill or flat. I can understand his attraction to the gibbons, because there’s an enormous window overlooking their enclosure and they often come up face-to-face with you.

The zoo is divided into three main sections: the Asian Rainforest, the African Savannah and the Australian Bushwalk. Each section has its own special feel and the Australian area is especially nice because you can walk right through an open area which is home to kangaroos and other friendly locals. I must confess, though, my son’s not so keen. He still holds a grudge against the kangaroo that snuck its head into our bag and ate his sultanas when we weren’t looking.

Over the years, more special activities have been set up and there’s quite a timetable of events each day. The elephant trainers in particular always hold interesting shows and they vary them so there’s always something new to see and learn. If you don’t see Tricia strolling the footpaths, you might see one of the younger elephants doing a painting!