A Sydney wildlife park has beaten global heavyweights to be crowned the world’s most picturesque wildlife destination – at least according to Instagram.
According to new research, the most picturesque safari experience in the world isn’t in Africa – it’s right here in Australia. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park has topped Titan Travel’s most Instagram-worthy wildlife locations , based on the number of Instagram tags. But before you start comparing it to the Serengeti, it’s worth reading between the lines.
The list, which ranks safari destinations by how Instagrammable they are, crowned Featherdale – one of our must-see Sydney wildlife experiences – the winner with a whopping 160,000 tagged posts. Werribee Open Range Zoo in Victoria came second with 126,000 tags, while Sri Lanka’s Horton Plains National Park rounded out the top three with 94,400.
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park has topped Titan Travel’s most Instagram-worthy wildlife locations. (Image: Destination NSW)
So, how did a suburban wildlife park just west of Sydney beat the world’s most iconic safari spots?
It’s all about accessibility. Located just 45 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Featherdale gives visitors the chance to get up close to Aussie icons like koalas, kangaroos, wombats and echidnas – all without needing to book a tour to the outback or hop a plane to Africa. It’s also home to rarer species like the Tasmanian devil and the glossy black cockatoo.
Plus, with a relatively affordable entry price of $44 for an adult, it’s no surprise that people are posting their wildlife selfies in droves. After all, when you can take a selfie with a quokkaand upload the proof in one afternoon, why wouldn’t you?
Werribee Open Range Zoo in Victoria came second.
Still, it’s worth noting that this ranking is based purely on Instagram popularity – not on size, scale or biodiversity. That means more accessible and urban-adjacent spots like Featherdale and Werribee naturally rake in more tags than remote or harder-to-reach destinations.
Despite the disclaimer, the list gives us a fascinating look at how people interact with wildlife experiences around the world. And it highlights something else, too: you don’t need to leave Australia to enjoy a snapshot-worthy experience.
Healesville Sanctuary was the fourth most popular wildlife experience.
Top five most Instagrammed wildlife experiences
1. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park (Australia) – 160,000 tags
2. Werribee Open Range Zoo (Australia) – 126,000 tags
3. Horton Plains National Park (Sri Lanka) – 94,400 tags
So whether you’re in it for the likes or the wildlife, it turns out some of the world’s most photogenic wildlife experiences might be closer to home than you think.
Visit the wombats at Moonlit Sanctuary.
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.
No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.
This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.
The events
Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.
Ballarat International Foto Biennale
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.
This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.
Sunnyside
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)
Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.
Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.
While you’re there
Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.
Where to eat
Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)
For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.
At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .
In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).
Where to drink
Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)
No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.
Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, includingGrainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.
You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.
What to see
Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.
Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.
Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.
Where to stay
Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.
For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.
If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.
Getting there
Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)
One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.
