Hanson Bay Sanctuary, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia
Where to have a koala encounter
No Aussie holiday is complete without meeting a koala. These are the best places to see them around the country.
The world's first and largest koala sanctuary is just outside Queensland's sunny capital city. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, which opened with only two koalas back in 1927, has long been a centre dedicated to the well-being of koalas and all kinds of wildlife. While here, you can sign up for a Koala Experience to learn more about these adorable Aussie animals and snap a few (hundred) photos along the way.
While on the Gold Coast, stop by Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to over 50 koalas and other local animals like bilbies, kangaroos and wombats. During your visit, listen to some of the many wildlife talks or watch a live feeding to learn more about the cute inhabitants of the sanctuary. It's also worth taking some time to see Currumbin's Wildlife Hospital, where they treat injured or unwell animals with the goal of sending them back out into the wild.
Sitting off mainland South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a pristine isle surrounded by azure blue waters and famed for its diverse wildlife. The best way to guarantee a memorable koala experience here is with Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary's guided walk. Stop at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park next for their daily koala presentation before enjoying a picnic and visiting the kangaroos, quokkas and snakes. This centre also runs a rescue centre dedicated to injured and orphaned wildlife.
Hop on a ferry and cruise across Sydney's iconic harbour to reach Taronga Zoo. This is one of Sydney's most famous attractions, combining epic harbour views with native wildlife. Wander paths through shady bushland as you enjoy several animal exhibits – namely the koalas that snooze in the trees. Schedule a dedicated koala encounter, where you'll join a zookeeper to learn about the endangered marsupials before snapping a photo with one on a nearby branch.
Drop into Caversham Wildlife Park to visit its koalas and learn about the conservation practices that are in place to protect them. You can also visit a whole host of mammals, marsupials, birds and reptiles, ranging from freshwater crocodiles to short-beaked echidnas. Take advantage of the daily animal presentations and interactive farm shows – kids will especially love them!
You’ll find koalas aplenty lazing in their natural habitat on Raymond Island. A swift, free ferry ride from Paynesville will land you on the tiny island, where the best way to get around is via bike with Ride the Koalas. During an hour-long, self-guided tour, you’ll have the chance to explore the island’s pristine environment while keeping your eyes peeled for koalas in the branches above. While riding, you may also see kangaroos and echidnas.
The rugged coast of the Great Ocean Road is a favourite among locals and travellers alike for the iconic Twelve Apostles. The area’s stunning natural environment is also home to an adorable population of koalas. Join Wildlife Wonders to follow a wheelchair-accessible trail through a lush sanctuary, spotting koalas and joeys in their trees as a conservationist explains the region’s biodiversity.
