Brisbane is a bustling and modern city that offers great rooftop and riverside dining, world-class accommodation, and famous theme parks. But beyond the city, you’ll find a world of wildlife parks, zoos, and animal sanctuaries waiting to be explored. Here are eight experiences within 30 minutes from Brisbane’s city streets:
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – Get up close and personal with over 100 koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and encounter other Australian wildlife like platypuses and owls. Entry is cheaper when purchased via the Brisbane Visitor Information Centre.
- Daisy Hill Koala Centre – Learn about koalas and their conservation at this education facility located 25km south of Brisbane. You can see koalas up close from viewing platforms, and there’s a daily koala keeper talk. Entry is free. Open daily, 10am-4pm. Suitable for wheelchairs.
- Walkabout Creek Wildlife Centre – This wildlife centre, just 12km from Brisbane CBD, is home to native wildlife kept in exhibits mirroring their actual habitat. Take a glimpse inside the nocturnal house or walk through the subtropical aviary that replicates lush rainforests. Entry is $7.70 adults/$3.70 children/$19.50 family pass. Open daily, 9am-4pm.
- Birds of Prey, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – See predators of the sky like owls and Wedge Tail Eagles in free flight performing amazing aerobatics. You’ll also have the chance to meet the stars of the show and get photos. Show is $20 adults/$12 children/$55 family. Held on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 1pm-1:45pm. Entry is $59.95 adults/$39.95 children/$182.95 family. The Brisbane Visitor Information Centre sells express tickets to help you skip the queues. Animal experiences cost extra. Open daily, 9am-5pm.
- Tangalooma Island Resort – Hand feeding wild bottlenose dolphins is a highlight here. There are whale watching tours from June to October. Other activities include boat trips to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, Desert Safari Cruise, Marine Discovery Cruise, and daily kookaburra and sea bird educational presentations.
- Australia Zoo – This 100-acre zoo, owned by the famous Irwin family, offers the chance to view many different species from crocodiles, wombats, and Tasman devils to snakes, rhinos, tigers, red pandas, and cheetahs. Entry is cheaper when purchased via the Brisbane Visitor Information Centre.
- Summer Land Camels – Feed and ride the camels, and learn about the anti-aging and immune health benefits of camel milk. Delicious country fare can be enjoyed from the cafe, including camel milk gelato, and even a camel sausage roll or camel pie. Prices start from $30 for varying camel experiences. Farm Tour & Taste starts from $25. Open daily, 9am-3pm.
- Lyell Deer Sanctuary – Get close to rescued deer in a peaceful setting. You can cuddle them, sit with them, and feed them. Entry is cheap at $5 for adults and $3 for children.
Whether you’re visiting Brisbane for the first time or you’re a local, these animal encounters are a must-see.
