Australia's unique wildlife has always been a highlight for tourists. Many independent travelers who come to Australia will visit zoos to get a close look at the various unique Australian species. But which zoo is the most fun? Which one is most recommended? And what are their differences?
Today, I'll introduce the 3 most popular zoos in Queensland, Australia: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and Australia Zoo. Each of these zoos has its own unique features and they are all located in different places. I hope this article will help you plan your itinerary better!
(Queensland is the only state in Australia where it's legal to hold koalas. So, if you're visiting the Gold Coast, Brisbane, or other places, I highly recommend visiting a zoo!)
1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Located in Brisbane, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is ranked among the "Top 10 Zoos in the World." It's also the largest koala conservation area in the world, with over 100 koalas and various Australian wildlife. Visitors can directly feed animals like kangaroos. There are daily parrot feeding and sheepdog shows, making it a favorite destination for both adults and children.
◎ Address: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $49; Children $35; Students $39; Family (2 adults, 2 children) $145
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◎ Transport: Take bus number 430 or 445 from Brisbane city center to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car Rental in Australia)
◎ Official Website: LONE PINE KOALA SANCTUARY
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The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary doesn't have many shows compared to other zoos, but the abundance of koalas is a major attraction. With its relatively low prices and convenient location near Brisbane city center, it's highly recommended for those planning a zoo trip in Brisbane.
2. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the Gold Coast, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a comprehensive zoo that features a variety of elements. In addition to seeing various Australian animals, visitors can take a train tour around the zoo, enjoy performances by Australian Aboriginal dancers, and even take on the "Tree Top Challenge" for an outdoor adventure. It's suitable for tourists of all ages!
◎ Address: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Tomewin Street, Currumbin QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $54.95; Children & Students $41.95; Family (2 adults, 2 children) $169.95
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◎ Transport: Take the tram from the Gold Coast city center to Broadbeach South station, then transfer to bus number 700 to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car Rental in Australia)
◎ Official Website: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
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Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a well-rated zoo with a variety of animals and activities. Located near Surfers Paradise and beach attractions, it's ideal for those planning a zoo trip on the Gold Coast.
3. Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo, founded by the famous "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin's family, is the largest zoo in Queensland. The zoo houses a wide variety of animals, including crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos, wombats, Asian elephants and more, with over 1200 animals in total. There's a grand show at the zoo's stadium every day at 11 o'clock, which is a major highlight you don't want to miss!
◎ Address: Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah QLD
◎ Admission: Adults $66.95; Children $41.95; Students $56.95; Family (2 adults, 2 children) $199.95
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◎ Transport: Take a train to Landsborough station, then transfer to bus number 615 to Australia Zoo. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car Rental in Australia)
◎ Official Website: Australia Zoo
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The Australia Zoo is the largest and most diverse among the three zoos, with a variety of performances. A trip here guarantees a rewarding experience. However, its more remote location may pose a transportation challenge for tourists. It's recommended to allocate a full day for a trip here.
So, those are the 3 major zoos in Queensland, Australia. For many visitors to Brisbane or the Gold Coast, these are popular attractions and fun places to visit. If you come here, don't hesitate to take a photo with the animals and capture the unique Aussie vibes!