Queensland, Australia | Top 3 Must-Visit Zoos
How can you visit Australia without seeing kangaroos and koalas?
Australia's unique wildlife has always been a major travel highlight. Many independent travelers head straight to a sanctuary or zoo upon arriving in Australia to get up close and personal with native animals. But which zoo is the most fun, which one should you choose, and what makes each one unique?
Today, I'll introduce the top 3 zoos in Queensland, Australia: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and Australia Zoo. Each has its own distinct highlights and locations. Hopefully, this comparison guide will give you a clear roadmap to plan your perfect itinerary!
(In all of Australia, holding a koala is only legal in Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. Therefore, if you are traveling to Brisbane or the Gold Coast, visiting a wildlife sanctuary is an absolute must!)
1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Located in Brisbane, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Zoos in the World and is the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary. Home to over 100 koalas as well as a diverse array of native Australian wildlife, visitors can hand-feed kangaroos and enjoy daily shows including lorikeet feeding and sheepdog demonstrations. It is a beloved destination for both locals and travelers of all ages!
◎ Address: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $59; Children $42; Students $47; Family (2 adults, 3 children) $180 (Discount Ticket 1 | Discount Ticket 2)
◎ Transportation: Take Bus 430 or 445 from Brisbane CBD and get off directly at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (Transit Guide | Compare Rental Cars)
◎ Official Website: LONE PINE KOALA SANCTUARY
◎ Travelogue: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Review
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking︱Agoda︱Hotels︱Expedia (Compare Rates | Recommended Stays)
Compared to other wildlife parks, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has fewer large-scale shows, but its vast number of koalas is its crowning glory. Admission is relatively affordable, and its proximity to Brisbane city center makes it exceptionally convenient for travelers exploring Brisbane.
2. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a vibrant park combining wildlife encounters with cultural and adventure experiences. In addition to meeting diverse Australian animals, you can ride the charming miniature train around the park and watch authentic Aboriginal dance performances. For thrill-seekers, the on-site TreeTop Challenge offers exciting outdoor adventures, making it perfect for visitors of all generations!
◎ Address: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Tomewin Street, Currumbin QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $70; Children & Students $55; Family (2 adults, 2 children) $215 (Discount Ticket 1 | Discount Ticket 2)
◎ Transportation: Take the G:link light rail from the Gold Coast city center to Broadbeach South station, then transfer to Bus 700 and alight at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (Transit Guide | Compare Rental Cars)
◎ Official Website: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
◎ Travelogue: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Guide
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking︱Agoda︱Hotels︱Expedia (Compare Rates | Recommended Stays)
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary consistently earns outstanding reviews for its wide variety of animals, interactive activities, and proximity to Surfers Paradise and the beach. It is the top wildlife sanctuary choice if you are basing your holiday on the Gold Coast.
3. Australia Zoo
Founded by the family of the legendary "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo is the largest zoological park in Queensland. It houses over 1,200 animals, including saltwater crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and Asian elephants. The world-famous Wildlife Warriors show at the Crocoseum every day at 11:00 AM is an absolute highlight you cannot afford to miss!
◎ Address: Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $74.95; Children $49.95; Students $64.95; Family (2 adults, 2 children) $225.65
◎ Money-Saving Tips: Australia Zoo Discount Tickets | Australia Zoo Day Tour
◎ Transportation: Take the train to Landsborough station and transfer to Bus 649 directly to Australia Zoo (Transit Guide | Compare Rental Cars)
◎ Official Website: Australia Zoo
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking︱Agoda︱Hotels︱Expedia (Compare Rates | Recommended Stays)
Australia Zoo is the largest and animal-rich of the three parks, offering thrilling, high-energy shows that guarantee an unforgettable day. However, its location on the Sunshine Coast is further away from major city centers, so public transit takes longer. Setting aside a full day is highly recommended when visiting.
These are the top 3 must-visit zoos in Queensland! Whether you are vacationing in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, each of these parks offers incredible encounters with Australia's most beloved wildlife. Make sure to snap an iconic photo with these lovely creatures during your journey!