Hold Prehistory at Rockhampton Zoo: A Guided Walk with Paleo‑author Phil Hore

WEST ROCKHAMPTON WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Hold Prehistory at Rockhampton Zoo: A Guided Walk with Paleo‑author Phil Hore

A 45–60 minute Time Safaris walk through Rockhampton Zoo led by Phil Hore that pairs living animals with real fossils — and includes a free fossil for every child.

Hold Prehistory at Rockhampton Zoo: A Guided Walk with Paleo‑author Phil Hore.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
West Rockhampton
Operator
Time Safaris
Category
Walking Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Join paleo‑author Phil Hore for a guided walking tour through Rockhampton Zoo in West Rockhampton, where you can handle real fossils from prehistoric giants — dinosaurs, giant crocs and terror birds among them — while the guide links those deep‑time specimens to the zoo’s living animals.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE HANDS‑ON MOMENT

Hold real fossils from prehistoric giants

Participants get to hold and examine real fossils from prehistoric relatives of zoo animals — from dinosaurs to giant crocs and terror birds — guided by paleo‑author Phil Hore.

THE GUIDED WALK

A zoo walk that connects living species to deep time

The tour threads through Rockhampton Zoo with a running narrative that ties exhibits to the prehistoric lineages represented by the fossils on display.

FOR YOUNG FANS

A keepsake fossil for every child

The experience includes a free fossil for every kid on the tour, making it an especially memorable option for young dinosaur and prehistoric‑animal fans.

What the day feels like

What the tour feels like

Over roughly 45 minutes to an hour you’ll walk the paths of Rockhampton Zoo with Phil Hore, stopping at exhibits to compare living animals with the fossils of their prehistoric relatives, handling specimens and hearing expert commentary that blends field knowledge with accessible storytelling.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this walk suits — and the practical caveats.

1
Visitors who can follow zoo operationsA good fit for visitors willing and able to comply with zoo staff and the guide’s instructions, since the tour must keep out of the way of zoo operations at all times.
2
Those expecting displaysNot ideal for travelers who require guaranteed animal viewings: some animals may not be displayed for various reasons and exhibits can be unavailable.
3
Families with childrenFamilies should be prepared to keep children close and aware of surroundings during the walk because the tour operates within active zoo grounds.
4
Small‑group and school organisersOrganisers should note the tour’s need to avoid interfering with zoo operations and plan accordingly; the route may be adjusted to accommodate zoo activities.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

The tour is outdoors: bring insect repellent, a camera, and wear appropriate walking footwear; on hot days bring a hat and water, and on wet days bring a raincoat.

Clothing & Comfort

Dress for the weather and use insect repellent as the walk takes place outdoors along zoo paths.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

Tours run for around 45 minutes to an hour.

Where do we meet?

Meet outside the front entrance of Rockhampton Zoo and arrive 15 minutes before departure as tours leave on time.

Can I contact the group during the tour?

No messages will be received once the tour begins.

Are the fossils handled during the tour?

Yes — the tour includes handling real fossils related to the zoo’s animals.

Will we see every animal at the zoo?

Not necessarily: the tour must keep out of the way of zoo operations and some animals may not be displayed for various reasons.

What should children expect?

Children can handle fossils as part of the tour and every child receives a free fossil.