Jamala Wildlife Lodge

Hotel Description

Oh man, if you’re heading to Canberra and want something that’ll blow your mind, you have to check out Jamala Wildlife Lodge on Lady Denman Drive out in Weston Creek. I remember pulling up that winding road – it’s tucked away from the main hustle of the city, right next to the National Zoo & Aquarium, but honestly, it feels like you’ve stumbled into some secret safari oasis. Parking was a breeze; there’s plenty of spots, and no fighting for space like you do downtown near the lake. Check-in was smooth as – the staff greeted me with this warm, unhurried vibe, handing over a welcome drink that tasted like fresh mango and something tropical (probably to mask the faint earthy scent from the nearby enclosures, but hey, that’s part of the charm). My first impression? It’s not your typical 5-star spot; it’s more like luxury glamping meets a wildlife documentary. The grounds are lush, with these massive trees shading the paths, and you can hear the low rumble of lions or the chatter of monkeys even before you unpack. I mean, Canberra’s got that crisp, cool air most times of year, but here it mixes with the smell of eucalyptus and animal musk – totally immersive, you know?

What really sets Jamala apart, though – and this is where it gets magical – is how the accommodations are basically woven into the zoo itself. I stayed in one of the uShaka Lodge rooms, overlooking the giraffe enclosure, and let me tell you, waking up to a giraffe peering in your window at dawn is surreal. The rooms are plush, with these huge beds draped in soft linens that feel like clouds, and bathrooms stocked with high-end toiletries that smell like lemongrass (a nice touch after a day exploring). You get private tours, like feeding the bears or hanging out with meerkats, and dinners are this communal affair in the main lodge with gourmet food – think seared kangaroo with local wines from the Canberra region. It’s not super noisy at night, actually; the animals settle down, and the place is quiet enough that you can hear the wind through the gums. But fair warning, it’s pricey, especially in peak season like summer holidays when families flock in from Sydney or Melbourne. And if you’re light-sensitive, those early morning animal calls might jolt you awake – I sort of loved it, but pack earplugs just in case. Oh, and it’s a quick drive to spots like the Arboretum or Black Mountain Tower if you want to venture out, but why would you when you’ve got cheetahs practically as neighbors?

Look, if you’re the type who wants more than just a fancy bed and room service, Jamala’s a game-changer. It’s got that 9.6 rating for a reason – the staff know their stuff, sharing tidbits about the animals like old friends, and it leaves you with stories you’ll bore your mates with for years. Sure, it’s not for everyone (if crowds or critters aren’t your thing, stick to the city hotels on Northbourne Avenue), but for a unique escape in Canberra’s backyard, it’s worth every penny. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a proper adventure without ever leaving Australia.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $1,098. Capuchin King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,575. Giraffe Tree House with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• An experience of a life time. – Hamilton from Australia – 8 July 2025 (9/10)

  Everything was beautiful.

• Exceptional – Angela from Australia – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

  The artifacts and, of course, the animals.
  
  What could be improved: The staff were very strict for good reason. A bit hard to relax.

• 10/10 – Linda from Australia – 8 May 2025 (10/10)

  Everything
  
  What could be improved: No YouTube

• Incredible – Kim from Australia – 26 April 2025 (10/10)

  Jamala is a wonderful experience from the minute you arrive at reception. Staff are wonderful, experience is amazing and the food is to die for.
  
  It is certainly a once in a lifetime experience
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Bucket list – Debbie from Australia – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  We enjoyed every thing. The keepers were great and very knowledgeable.
  The staff were exceptional and the food was to die for
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Bucklet list item at world class zoo – Allysen from Australia – 29 January 2025 (10/10)

  It was a phenomenal experience. We stayed in the Giraffe Treehouse and it was such an amazing stay. The staff were so attentive, they couldn’t do enough for you. The food was amazing and plentiful. You have a tour with a guide, and get to experience the zoo the next morning in peace and quiet before the general public come in. The zoo is world class and the experience at Jamala is a once in a lifetime bucket list item. We highly recommend to put it on your list!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. All of it was world class.

• Exceptional – Lynette from Australia – 16 January 2025 (10/10)

  Everything! Our room, the amazing food, yummy wines, the other guests, all the friendly staff, but most of all, the animals…
  
  What could be improved: Our toilet in the Meerkat room didn't full flush, and the shower taps were hard to turn off to stop dripping. Also, our TV didn't work when we first checked in? The lovely staff got it sorted while we were at dinner.

• Great experience – Sophie from Australia – 12 January 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous stay in the Giraffe room
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Well worth the money – Belinda from Australia – 1 January 2025 (9/10)

  The decor made you feel like you were on safari. The room was huge and luxurious.
  
  What could be improved: Water pressure in shower, at times water stopped running completely

• Exceptional – Gil from Australia – 30 December 2024 (10/10)

  Contact with animals – Greet the Cheetahs, patting a Rhino and a python
  
  What could be improved: Loneliness of 'hybrid' tigers. Maybe desex the make hybrid tigers and try socialising the hybrids together – apart from pure breed species.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities