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Wildlife Quest: Where Can I See Koalas in Brisbane?
Did you know that cuddly koalas spend a total of 20 hours a day sleeping? Yes, you read that right – these marsupials are masters of relaxation!
Their charming demeanour and endearing antics make them even more captivating. All the more reason to see these adorable creatures in person, right?
If you’re as excited as we are, join us to uncover where to find these iconic koalas around the city!
1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Address: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket, QLD 4069, Australia
Website: https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com/
Contact Details: +61 7 3378 1366
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Adult: $49; Children: $35; Students: $39; Seniors: $39
Located on the outskirts of Brisbane, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the first and largest koala sanctuary in the world. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to get an intimate look at these iconic Australian marsupials.
Here, you can watch koalas in their everyday routines, surrounded by a habitat that feels just like their natural home.
If you’re curious about koalas and their buddies, the sanctuary has a 60-minute discovery tour. During this guided adventure, you can delve into the intricate details of the sanctuary’s daily operations.
From food foraging techniques to veterinary care and nurturing, the tour provides an informative and hands-on experience for all ages.
And the best part? You get to hold a koala at the end of your journey! It’s a special moment, and many photographers and wildlife enthusiasts love it.
| Pro tip: Check out the gift shop at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary before you head out. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and support the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. |
2. Brisbane Koala Bushlands
Address: 137 Alperton Rd, Burbank, QLD 4156, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Brisbane Koala Bushlands are a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving the koalas’ natural heritage. This big green area is also filled with trees and bushes with an array of native flora and fauna.
It’s like a safe haven for a variety of wildlife, with the koala as the ultimate star of the show. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just a casual visitor, the Brisbane Koala Bushlands have well-maintained walking trails catering to various fitness levels.
On top of that, patient observers can be rewarded with the sight of koalas lounging in the treetops, munching on eucalyptus leaves, and showcasing their charming personalities.
But there’s more to do here than just spotting koalas! You can take part in educational activities and programmes to learn about the challenges these beloved marsupials face.
| Pro tip: Remember that your visit helps support wildlife conservation efforts. Consider making a donation to further contribute to the protection of these incredible animals. |
3. Daisy Hill Koala Centre
Address: 253 Daisy Hill Rd, Daisy Hill, QLD 4127, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3078 3101
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
Surrounded by a lush conservation park, Daisy Hill Koala Centre in Brisbane is a gateway to the charming Australian bushland.
A walk in this park lets you bask in the beautiful plants and animals that live here. And if you’re fortunate, you might spot other wildlife too!
Additionally, this koala sanctuary has a lovely picnic spot with BBQs and tables. It’s ideal for a tasty meal in the peaceful conservation park, whether you’re with family or friends.
Another highlight of the centre is its outdoor koala exhibit. Here, you can get a sneak peek at these marsupials in their near-natural habitat, climbing and chilling in the eucalyptus trees.
Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors to observe these adorable creatures up close while respecting the space they need. You may also join interactive displays and presentations to discover more about koalas, their conservation, and their environment.
| Pro tip: While BBQ facilities are available, it’s a good idea to bring your own utensils, charcoal, and food supplies. This ensures you have everything you need for a seamless barbecue. |
4. Minjerribah
Address: 100 East Coast Road, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island, QLD 4183, Australia
Website: https://minjerribahcamping.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 7 3059 4042
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
Minjerribah in Brisbane, also known as North Stradbroke Island, is an untouched paradise located just off the coast of Queensland. This gorgeous island lets you say hi to koalas while enjoying its stunning natural beauty.
Because of the island’s pristine state, you can also witness the annual migration of humpback whales, spot dolphins playing in the surf, and even share the shoreline with kangaroos!
For the bird lovers out there, Minjerribah is a birdwatcher’s dream, with all sorts of feathered friends hanging around.
And here’s the icing on the cake: while you’re out exploring, keep your eyes on the treetops during your hikes and nature walks – it’s not uncommon to spot a cute koala chilling among the branches!
If you really want to up your chances, you can tag along with experienced guides who know where to look. Even better, experienced guides can provide invaluable insights and enhance your chances of koala sightings.
Those curious to know more about koalas may go after the island’s educational experiences with local wildlife experts. You’ll gain a deep understanding of these animals and the hard work being done to protect them.
| Pro tip: It’s great to consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour. They know the best places to find these cute animals and can share cool facts about them and the island. |
5. Coombabah Lake Conservation Park
Address: Coombabah, Unnamed Road, QLD, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Coombabah Lake Conservation Park is a beautiful space with lots of different plants and animals. There are wetlands, forests, and woodlands, making it a great home for native animals like koalas in Brisbane.
As you take a walk, make sure to look up in the trees because that’s where the cute koalas often rest and eat eucalyptus leaves. And, if you’re into bird-watching, you’re in luck – there are all sorts of different birds to spot here.
Keep your binoculars at hand in case you spot herons, kingfishers, and a variety of waterbirds in the wetlands as well.
| Pro tip: It’s recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting koalas at Coombabah Lake Conservation Park. During these times, koalas are more active, so you’ll have a better chance of seeing them as they go about their business in their natural habitat. |
6. Noosa National Park
Address: Palm Grove Cct, Noosa Heads, QLD 4567, Australia
Contact Details: +61 137468
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Admission: Free
Noosa National Park in Brisbane is famous for its stunning coastal scenery and koala sightings. It has beautiful ocean views, clean beaches, and rugged cliffs, making it a perfect place for all sorts of outdoor activities.
While exploring marked trails, keep your eyes peeled for unique plants, colourful birds, and perhaps even wallabies and other wildlife, adding an extra layer of adventure to your koala-hunting journey.
| Pro tip: Bring binoculars or a good camera with a reliable zoom lens to get a closer look at the koalas, as they often rest high in the treetops. |
7. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Address: 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin, QLD 4223, Australia
Website: https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 7 5534 1266
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: Day Pass: $45.95; Experience Pass: $80
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Brisbane has one of the busiest wildlife hospitals globally, where more than 500 koalas came here for expert care, just in the past year alone.
Here, you’ll get to see the amazing team of veterinarians, nurses, and conservationists who help these special animals get better.
Now, while koalas are the big stars, the sanctuary is also home to many other Australian animals, like kangaroos, wombats, and exotic birds. It’s a wildlife party, giving you the full picture of the country’s unique animals and the work done to keep them safe.
After spending time with the animals, cap off the night with a “Grazy Arvo” or a grazing platter with koalas. This happens in the sanctuary’s designated koala habitat dining area.
A ticket price for this meal includes a gourmet grazing platter of local and international cheeses, breads, and antipasto delights, set in the sanctuary’s stunning surroundings.
| Pro tip: Make sure to book your “Grazy Arvo” adventure near Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary well in advance. It’s super popular, and they have limited spots, so you don’t want to miss out. |
8. Dreamworld
Address: Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera, QLD 4209, Australia
Website: https://www.dreamworld.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 7 5588 1111
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM; Friday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: 1-Day Pass: $105; 3-Day Pass: $149
Amid the excitement of Dreamworld theme park in Brisbane, there’s a calm oasis known as Corroboree. Here, you can get up close and personal with one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic residents: the koala.
Here’s the fun part – you can snap a photo with one of these local koalas at Corroboree. And when you do, you’re not just getting a cute memory; your visit actually helps the environment!
This is because by participating in a koala cuddle, some of the money you pay goes directly to the Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation’s conservation work.
| Pro tips: Download the Dreamworld app to check ride wait times, show schedules, and find your way around the park. Review the park map and create a loose itinerary of the attractions and shows you want to visit to maximise your day. |
9. Paradise Country
Address: Production Dr, Oxenford, QLD 4210, Australia
Website: https://paradisecountry.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 133386
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Admission: Annual Pass: $219; Day Pass: $49; 3-Day Pass: $179; 7-Day Pass: $199; 14-Day Pass: $289
Paradise Country in Brisbane is a charming, remote Australian place where visitors can get close to wildlife and experience the country’s rural lifestyle. It’s a place to cuddle koalas, watch sheep shear, and enjoy the beauty of the Australian countryside.
This farm offers more than just a day’s adventure. For those who would like to explore the place and any wildlife experience, multi-day pass discounts are available too.
And for the real animal lovers out there, they offer an annual pass that gives you unlimited access to this captivating place all year round!
For an extraordinary weekend treat, you can share your breakfast with the adorable koalas at the farm. At the Farmhouse restaurant, you can enjoy a delicious meal while seated beside these marsupials as they munch on their greens!
If you’re eager to get even closer to the koalas, Paradise Country offers behind-the-scenes tours that allow you to meet and feed these cuties.
It’s also a chance for you to learn more about their behaviours, conservation efforts, and role in Australia’s rich biodiversity.
| Pro tips: Before you join the behind-the-scenes tour, it’s good to prepare some questions about the koalas and their conservation efforts to have a more engaging and informative experience. |
10. Australia Zoo
Website: https://www.australiazoo.com.au/
Address: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, QLD 4519, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 5436 2000
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Adults: $59; Child: $35; Pensioner: $47; Student: $47
Visiting Australia Zoo in Brisbane offers an exciting chance to see adorable koalas in a conservation-focused environment. Here, guests can get up close with these iconic marsupials and learn about their vital role in the animal kingdom.
Guests can also grab a chance to say hello to more than 1000 wildlife species in the world’s most interactive wildlife park!
As you explore the zoo, take a moment to wander through their very own Koala Walkthrough. Look up into the trees to spot koalas lazing among the eucalyptus branches – a heartwarming sight!
Additionally, don’t miss the daily koala live show, where you can learn what goes into caring for these remarkable creatures. Gain insights into their behaviours, diet, and the efforts undertaken by the zoo’s team to protect and save koalas.
If you want a really up-close experience, join one of their keeper-led tours! You’ll get a deep dive into koalas and their role in Australia’s special ecosystem. Plus, you can ask questions and learn firsthand about their amazing conservation work.
On the other hand, Australia Zoo’s connection with wildlife enthusiasts extends beyond its gates. Visit their social media pages, where they offer followers the unique opportunity to actually name the koalas!
It’s a nice chance to be part of the conservation effort and leave a lasting mark on these iconic Aussie animals.
| Pro tips: When joining the koala naming activity on Australia Zoo’s social media, get creative and think of names that show what makes each koala special. Names matching their highlighted features or personality traits usually work best. For the koala live show, try to get there early to snag a good seat. This way, you can see everything clearly and really get into the amazing world of koalas and their conservation work. |
11. Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo
Website: https://www.snakesdownunder.com/
Address: 51 Lucketts Rd, Childers, QLD 4660, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 4126 3332
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Admission: Adults: $25
At Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo, you can see koalas and a variety of fascinating reptiles from Australia. It’s an opportunity to explore both these iconic marsupials and the reptile wonders of the country.
While reptiles take the limelight, the park also offers a unique marsupial experience. You can get up close with these iconic koalas, learn about their behaviours, and even have the chance to feed them!
And if you’re really into it, you can join the Koala Talk programme. It’s a way to get involved in the park’s efforts to take care of the animals.
| Pro tip: Why not create a scrapbook of your visit to Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo? Put in notes, drawings, and photos to make a special memory of your time there. It’s a neat way to remember your visit! |
12. Billabong Sanctuary
Website: https://www.snakesdownunder.com/
Address: 2 Muntalunga Dr, Nome, QLD 4816, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 4778 8344
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: Adults: $46; Children: $31; Family (2 Adults, 3 Children): $140; Additional Child: $25; Pensioners (Australian Only): $42; Seniors/Students: $42
One of Billabong Sanctuary’s achievements in Brisbane is its successful koala breeding programme. This programme is crucial in maintaining a healthy and robust koala colony, offering these beloved marsupials a better chance at species survival.
Now comes the fun part – you can join the morning feeding session at the sanctuary to get up close to the koalas. The rangers would let you get closer as you watch the koalas munching and interacting.
But there’s more to this place than just learning about wildlife. Billabong Sanctuary can also be a cosy wedding venue or a cool place for company events. It’s a versatile and memorable spot for all kinds of celebrations!
| Pro tip: If you’re booking Billabong Sanctuary for an event, it’s best to connect with them early to secure your preferred date, as popular dates go fast! |
