Perth Zoo’s African savannah is set for its biggest transformation in more than 30 years, with the State Government revealing a $20 million expansion that will triple the size of the popular giraffe and zebra habitat.
The redevelopment, announced as part of the zoo’s master plan 2040, will create a larger open habitat designed to improve animal welfare and allow for mixed-species living.
Master plan projects include an orangutan rainforest precinct, a conservation science precinct, an African savannah extension, a nocturnal house and an Australian bushwalk and rainforest.
The African savannah has been one of the zoo’s most popular attractions for the past 30 years, taking visitors through an immersive dry riverbed landscape lined with African plants and featuring animals including rhinoceros, lions and meerkats.
Under the expansion plans, giraffes and zebras will roam together in a much larger habitat, and it is hoped they will one day be joined by ostriches and antelopes, creating a more natural African savannah environment.
The project will also include an expanded meerkat habitat, as well as a new children’s playground featuring exploratory tunnels designed to mirror the animals’ underground burrows.
A new visitor hub is also planned as part of the redevelopment, increasing the zoo’s education offerings and visitor amenities.
The expansion forms part of Perth Zoo’s long-term vision to modernise its facilities and deliver world-class exhibits focused on conservation, education, and animal welfare.
Construction is expected to begin in 2028.
Further details will be released as planning progresses.