Construction has begun on the most ambitious development in Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s history – the Serengeti Resort in Dubbo.
Set across 55 hectares of grasslands, the Serengeti Resort is set to offer an immersive experience, unlocking a previously unused area of the Zoo, five times the size of the current African Savannah habitat, which will become home to species including giraffe, rhinoceros, zebra and antelope.
Taronga Chief Executive, Cam Kerr said the resort will feature a central hub with a function and events centre, café restaurant, and infinity-edge pool, surrounded by diverse accommodation options with views of roaming African wildlife.
“The Serengeti Resort will be a game changer for Taronga Western Plains Zoo and for tourism in regional NSW,” said Mr Kerr.
“Designed with families in mind, it brings the beauty and excitement of an African safari to our own backyard, right here in Dubbo. This is more than just a place to stay; it’s an unforgettable experience that blends Taronga’s world-class wildlife expertise with the warmth of regional hospitality.
“It will firmly cement Dubbo as a must-do holiday destination for every Australian family.”
The resort is projected to inject an estimated $391 million into the local visitor economy over the next 20 years.
The development has received a $20 million investment from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, made possible through a partnership between Dubbo Regional Council and Taronga Western Plains Zoo, with a co-contribution from Taronga.
“It’s fantastic to see construction well underway, with building works started and milestones already achieved at Taronga Western Plains Zoo. This exciting and deliverable project is a great example of NSW Government investment that will deliver a major boost to the Dubbo region,” said Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty.
“Dubbo Zoo is already a wonderful place and once completed, the Serengeti Resort will mean even more visitors can stay and enjoy this iconic attraction for longer.”
In the coming months the resort will start to take shape with pier drilling, concrete slab pours, pool excavation and the construction of a prototype suite. Building works are predicted to create around 70 construction jobs and a further 28 ongoing roles will be created once the facility is operational.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo currently welcomes around 300,000 guests a year, with 40,000 staying overnight in one of its three award-winning accommodation offerings.
“Taronga does incredibly important work in the wildlife conservation space. Both nationally and internationally, they are renowned for their breeding programs, research facilities and animal hospitals,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe.
“This new facility will help visitors connect with nature in a whole new way, whilst boosting revenue for the zoo and the local economy.”
The Serengeti Resort is scheduled to open in the second half of 2026.
