Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife park in Currumbin on the Gold Coast, with bushland and rainforest paths winding past Australian animals. Look for koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, crocodiles, reptiles and birds, then check the daily program for feeding sessions and live presentations. The rainbow lorikeet feeding and free-flight bird show are popular stops, while a small train can help you cover the grounds. There are also animal encounters, including koala photos, and a water play area for families.
A sanctuary that began with lorikeets
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary opened in 1947 as a sanctuary for lorikeets. The birds remain a distinctive part of the visit, but the grounds now include a much wider range of wildlife. The sanctuary is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register and is owned by the National Trust of Queensland.
The sanctuary is a not-for-profit organisation. It also has a wildlife hospital, and its work includes caring for native animals. The grounds bring together wildlife exhibits and bushland, with walking paths through eucalyptus and rainforest areas.
Animals and daily presentations
The collection includes koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, crocodiles, wombats, dingoes, echidnas, emus, Tasmanian devils and a variety of birds and reptiles. You can also encounter animals such as red pandas and lemurs. Some areas allow close viewing, while kangaroos can be fed in designated experiences.
Presentations and feeding sessions give structure to a visit. The free-flight bird show is one option, and the program also includes animal talks and other demonstrations. Check the day’s schedule near the start of your visit: the grounds are spread out, and walking across the park for a presentation takes planning. Lorikeet feeding is another signature activity; the birds may take a little time to gather.
Getting around the grounds
A miniature train runs through the sanctuary and is useful for getting a sense of the layout before choosing where to spend time. It can also reduce the amount of walking, especially for families with young children. During busy periods, allow time to queue.
Walking trails lead through shaded bushland, with animal areas and places to pause along the way. The grounds also have refreshments for purchase. With the shows, animal areas and activities spread across the sanctuary, trying to see everything in a short visit can be difficult. Prioritise the animals and presentations that interest you, then use the train and timetable to shape the rest of the day.
Animal encounters and family activities
Koala photo experiences are available, and advance booking is sensible because session times can fill. The sanctuary also has kangaroo feeding and other animal encounters. These activities bring you closer to wildlife, but they are organised experiences rather than time to handle an animal freely.
Families can also use the water play area, playground and picnic facilities. Pack swimwear and towels if you want to include a splash break. For a longer visit, the Tree Top Challenge adds a high-ropes activity among the trees; it is separate in character from the quieter wildlife trails and presentations.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Plan for at least a full day if you want time for the animal areas, presentations and activities across the grounds.
Can you feed lorikeets at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes. Lorikeet feeding is one of the sanctuary’s activities. The birds can take a little while to gather.
Is there a train at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes. A miniature train runs around the grounds and can help you plan your visit or cut down on walking.
Should you book tickets or koala photos in advance?
Advance ticket booking is recommended. Koala photo sessions can fill, so booking one ahead is sensible.
