Serengeti Resort: Australia’s largest African-style savannah coming

A new resort is set to transport guests to the Serengeti at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.

In my humble opinion, Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo is the best in the country, possibly in the world. Besides the sheer size (and the novelty of riding a push bike, or driving, from enclosure to enclosure), it does amazing work for wildlife and habitat conservation. And the current open plain African Savannah habitat is a bit of fun. But it’s about to get an ambitious makeover with Australia’s largest African-style experience, Serengeti Resort.

Serengetti room interior render Taronga Western Plains Zoo — Watch African wildlife from the comfort of your room.

Set across 55 hectares of grasslands in a previously unused area of the zoo (that’s five times the size of the current savannah habitat), the Serengeti Resort will be an immersive experience. In the middle of it all will be a central hub complete with a function and events centre, a cafe restaurant and an infinity-edge pool, all surrounded by diverse accommodation options. And the views? Watch roaming African wildlife – including giraffe, rhinoceros, zebra and antelope – right from your resort room window.

“The Serengeti Resort will be a game changer for Taronga Western Plains Zoo and for tourism in regional NSW," said Taronga Chief Executive, Cam 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".

Serengetti resort pool render Taronga Western Plains Zoo — The resort builds on the zoo’s current Savannah Experience.

The Serengeti Resort will offer a Taronga Western Plains Zoo experience that can last multiple days and is expected to inject an estimated $391 million into the local visitor economy over the next 20 years.

“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".

Construction has begun, with the resort expected to open in the second half of 2026. Watch this space.

Serengetti room exterior render Taronga Western Plains Zoo — Look for updates in 2026.

While you’re waiting, discover some of Sydney’s best zoo experiences that are open now.

An untapped side to this popular holiday spot is hiding in plain sight.

Laidback Lake Macquarie draws in holidaygoers and day trippers with its casual coastal allure and raw beauty. But even though it’s just 90 minutes from Sydney, most visitors have only scratched the surface of what this region has to offer.

Foodie hotspots, quaint towns, tranquil waterways and compelling art are all waiting to be discovered. You just need to know where to find them.

1. Most visitors don’t make it to the western side

Explore beyond the western side. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

While there’s no harm in walking the well-worn path in this idyllic pocket of the world, the area west of Lake Macquarie is defined by stretches of ancient rainforests and quaint towns with a more local feel. Toronto is the largest town on this side and features a golf course and sailing clubs, while peninsula-based Wangi Wangi is fantastic for bushwalking and swimming.

2. There’s a booming arts scene

Lake Macquarie is a must-visit destination for creatives. Discover the Museum of Art and Culture, YAPANG; this modern gallery is set on a five-hectare sculpture park and showcases a free rotating program of exhibitions and events, with a strong focus on contemporary Aboriginal art. In Wangi Wangi, explore the Wangi Owl Trail, which includes Dobell House, the preserved home of prolific artist Sir William Dobell. And enjoy live music every Saturday evening at the recently renovated Toronto Hotel.

3. It’s a nature lover’s paradise

three people swimming in lake macquarie — In and out of the water, find a natural paradise. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

Lake Macquarie is a playground for nature lovers. It’s home to Australia’s largest saltwater lake, a 110-square-kilometre haven for swimming, fishing, boating and sunset views. Another oasis is the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area, a 761-hectare protected reserve with wildflowers, Second World War heritage sites and spectacular views to Pulbah Island. The upgraded Toronto baths, complete with jetty decking and netting, make for a sheltered spot for a refreshing dip, while the Awaba Mountain Bike Park gives adrenaline junkies their fix.

4. The dining scene is unbeatable

8 at Trinity lake macquarie — Treat yourself to 8 at Trinity.

Gourmands are well looked after in Lake Macquarie. At Emerson’s on the Lake in Toronto, the modern Australian fine dining menu spoils seafood lovers with the freshest ocean produce and stunning lake views. Sitting on Trinity Point’s waterfront, 8 at Trinity is another standout offering, serving Mediterranean fare in an open-air setting. For a more relaxed affair, the microbrewery trail lets craft beer enthusiasts sip on inventive brews from The Yard, Lake Mac Brewing and Bread & Brewery.

5. There are hidden coves and waterways

kayakers on lake macquarie local secrets — Get out onto the lake. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

There’s no better way to experience Lake Macquarie than directly on its waters, and in doing so you’ll discover a world of hidden coves and secluded waterways. Jump in a kayak for a tour with the friendly team at School of Yak and paddle to Cockle Creek, Awaba Bay, Green Point and Fennel Bay, discovering underwater life along the way. Or go all in and stay the night on one of Lake Macquarie Houseboats’ spacious vessels or hire a BBQ pontoon boat for the day from Lake Macquarie Boat Hire to enjoy a feast in the sunshine while admiring the marine life and picturesque waterscape.

6. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise

ll blue wren sitting on a tree branch — Keep an eye out for local birdlife. (Credit: Walter Coppola)

Twitchers are in for a real treat as hundreds of fascinating bird species such as Australian pelicans, black swans, white-bellied sea-eagles and superb fairy-wrens call this area home. Take a self-guided tour around top spots including Bird Cage Point and Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area (near Morisset) or be guided in a clear-bottom kayak through the waterways with Lake Macquarie Kayak Adventures, observing feathered friends as you go.

7. The lake has islands

sail lake macquarie — Charter a boat to see Lake Macquarie’s islands.

Hop on a private boat, kayak or charter around the lake to discover the plethora of small islands peppered around Lake Macquarie. The largest is Pulbah Island, a 69-hectare nature reserve home to goannas and sugar gliders with secluded beaches. Sandy islands such as Spectacle Island and Pelican Island have a tropical lagoon-like look to them as they sit in the tidal path of Swansea Channel, which filters the sand and creates a pristine environment. Stop by for a dip and a picnic.

Start living like the locals at visitlakemac.com.au.

Australia’s largest African-style savannah experience coming in 2026