Charles and Pip Woodward founded The Woodward Family CaPTA Group and pioneered rainforest tourism with the assistance of Army Duck Tours. They later introduced Koala & Wildlife Park and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. In 1981, Pip and Charles started Tropic Wings Coach Tours and expanded it by adding Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Jungle Tours & Trekking, and Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome to become the CaPTA Group. The Cairns Wildlife Dome was purchased in 2005 by CaPTA, and the Cairns ZOOM attraction was designed, built, and conceptualized by the CaPTA Chairman, Charles Woodward, and his son Michael Woodward.
In 2003, Goliath the Estuarine Crocodile was lifted via a crane into the dome. Cairns Rainforest Dome opened its door in 2003 and was awarded the TTNQ award for New Tourism Development in 2004. In 2015, pirate climb, Commando rope climb, and slackline were added, and in 2019, invertebrates exhibits and New Python Pathway was opened.
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome offer an exciting opportunity to explore the fascinating world of reptiles. Visitors can witness the slithering elegance of snakes, including pythons and other non-venomous species. The dome also showcases impressive reptiles like crocodiles and lizards, allowing guests to observe their unique behaviors and adaptations.
In addition to reptiles, the Wildlife Dome features a captivating collection of amphibians. Visitors can discover the diverse and colorful world of frogs, with their intricate patterns and vibrant hues. The dome also houses other amphibian species, providing a glimpse into their fascinating life cycles and ecological importance.
Marsupials steal the spotlight at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome. Guests can interact with adorable creatures like kangaroos and wallabies, feeding them and learning about their unique reproductive methods. The marsupial encounter offers a chance to get up close to these iconic Australian animals and appreciate their endearing nature.
The Wildlife Dome is also a haven for bird enthusiasts. From striking parrots to majestic birds of prey, visitors can admire the beauty and grace of various avian species. The dome showcases both native Australian birds and exotic species, providing an immersive experience in the world of avifauna. Guests can learn about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts to protect these feathered wonders.
Know Before You Visit Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome-
Location: The Reef Hotel Casino, 35-41 Wharf, 4870
Timings: 9:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Best Time To Visit- The best time to visit Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome is during the dry season, which runs from May to October in Cairns. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and pleasant, with lower chances of rainfall. The dry season offers ideal conditions for enjoying the adventure activities and exploring the wildlife dome.
How to Reach?
By Car/Cab: The attraction is 1km away from the Cairns city center. You can take a cab from the city center to reach the destination in about 5 minutes when coming via Spence St.
By Bus: The nearest bus stop from the attraction is Spence Street at Grafton Street station, which is 324 meters away. You can take bus lines 110 or 111 to this stop and then take a 5 minute walk to the attraction.
Zoom and Wildlife Dome Cairns offers visitors a chance to meet Australia's native fauna and enjoy adrenaline-pumping rope adventures. It is the world's first challenge ropes course situated in a wildlife park. It consists of crossings amongst native fauna and ziplines at various difficulty levels and heights.
You'll need at least four to five hours to explore Cairns Wildlife Dome and Zoom, as it has tons of interesting activities on offer, such as wildlife watching, rope climbing, and ziplining.
Opening hours during weekdays are the best time to visit Cairns Wildlife Dome and Zoom as the crowd is less, and you can explore the attraction without any hassle.
Cairns Rainforest Dome was opened in 2003 and it is around 18 years old, and Cairns Zoom was opened in December 2012 and it is around 10 years old.
No, pets are not allowed inside the Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome. The facility is dedicated to showcasing and conserving native wildlife, and the presence of pets could potentially disrupt the natural behavior of the animals or pose a safety risk. The dome strives to create a controlled and safe environment for both the animals and visitors. However, service animals that are trained to assist individuals with disabilities are permitted, as they are essential for providing necessary support. It is always recommended to check the specific rules and regulations of the Wildlife Dome before visiting, as policies may vary and certain restrictions may apply.