Healesville Sanctuary Melbourne
Discover Australia's unique wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, a conservation haven dedicated to native animals. Explore natural habitats and learn ab...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Healesville Sanctuary Melbourne
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Australia's unique wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, a conservation haven dedicated to native animals. Explore natural habitats and learn about vital conservation efforts.
"An amazing sanctuary – clean, well-kept, and run by a genuinely lovely team."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time at entry by purchasing your tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the sanctuary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koalas & Kangaroos
Various enclosures
Get up close with iconic Australian marsupials. See koalas snoozing and kangaroos hopping in their naturalistic habitats.
Bird of Prey Show
Aviary Amphitheatre
Witness majestic birds of prey in a captivating show, showcasing their speed and agility. A must-see for bird enthusiasts.
Platypus Viewing
Platypus enclosure
Marvel at the elusive platypus as it swims and forages. A unique opportunity to see this fascinating Australian icon.
Playgrounds & Vets
Various locations
Kids can burn energy at nature playgrounds or play 'vet' at the indoor hospital, offering interactive fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Book Ahead for Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time at entry by purchasing your tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the sanctuary.
📱 Check Daily Schedule
Don't miss talks, shows, and feeding times – check the daily schedule upon arrival.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there are cafes, bringing your own water and snacks can save money and time.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time at entry by purchasing your tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the sanctuary.
📱 Check Daily Schedule
Don't miss talks, shows, and feeding times – check the daily schedule upon arrival.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there are cafes, bringing your own water and snacks can save money and time.
☀️ Prepare for Weather
Melbourne weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and rain gear, even in summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Healesville Sanctuary for its well-maintained enclosures, healthy and active animals, and dedicated staff. The focus on Australian wildlife and conservation efforts is highly appreciated. While the cafe options can be limited, the overall experience is described as wonderful and educational, making it a highly recommended destination for all ages.
"I've been here many times, and this is a great little sanctuary. I recommend arriving in early or late hours, as the crowds aren't as large, and you'll be able to get to places/queues quicker. The animals don't mind the weather, but can be a bit elusive. If you arrive in the recommended hours, you're more likely to see them. All the enclosures are well made and designed with care. I highly recommend as well to do the Tawny Frogmouth close-up, as many don't really do this. However, Tiny and Kermit (The pair that you'll meet) are very calm and the tour guide is amazing!"
Mia Jones
"Had an awesome time! The koalas and kangaroos were absolutely adorable, and the aviary show was both entertaining and informative. Overall, a great experience and time well spent!"
Chantilly Eng
"Nice little zoo with a very easy to follow main track with a couple of loops that come back to the same place on the main track, makes it very easy to complete the whole park without doubling back. Time wise I'd allow 1.5 hours for just adults or 3-4 hours with kids if you want to really take everything in."
Rick White (Rickyc12s)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Healesville Sanctuary is about an hour's drive from Melbourne CBD. You can drive yourself, or consider a tour that includes transport. Some tours even offer a free shuttle from Melbourne. +1
While public transport options exist, they can be time-consuming. Driving or booking a tour with included transport is generally more convenient for a day trip.
There is ample parking available at the sanctuary, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, several tour operators offer day trips from Melbourne that include Healesville Sanctuary, often combined with other Yarra Valley attractions like Puffing Billy.
The journey from Melbourne CBD to Healesville Sanctuary typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but generally, adult admission is around $53 AUD. Children under 16 often get free entry on weekends, Victorian public holidays, and during Victorian school holidays. Children under 4 are free every day.
While specific coupons can be rare, becoming a Zoos Victoria member offers unlimited entry to all their zoos, including Healesville Sanctuary, which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors.
Yes, children under 4 enter free daily. Children under 16 also enjoy free entry on weekends, Victorian public holidays, and during Victorian school holidays.
Healesville Sanctuary is typically open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around public holidays.
Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended. It speeds up the entry process and guarantees your admission, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the koalas, kangaroos, dingos, echidnas, and the platypus. The bird of prey show is also a major highlight.
Healesville Sanctuary focuses on conservation and animal welfare. While direct feeding and touching of kangaroos are no longer permitted, they offer 'up close' experiences for an additional fee. Check their website for current offerings.
Absolutely! The sanctuary features indoor and outdoor nature playgrounds, and the 'play vet' hospital offers interactive fun for kids.
Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the sanctuary, especially if visiting with children. Adults might complete a thorough visit in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, the sanctuary has many shaded areas, making it comfortable even on hot days. Picnic tables are also available throughout the park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are cafes on-site offering food and drinks. However, options can be limited, especially for those with dietary requirements, and popular items can sell out.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. There are picnic tables available, making it a good option for budget-conscious families.
While cafes offer some choices, options for specific dietary needs like lactose or gluten intolerance can be limited and may sell out. It's advisable to check in advance or bring your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for opportunities around the kangaroo and koala enclosures, the aviary, and the platypus habitat. Early morning light often provides the best photographic conditions.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, always be mindful of signage and staff instructions, especially during animal encounters or shows.
While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or videography may require special permission. Avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The sanctuary's focus on Australian wildlife means plenty of opportunities to see iconic animals like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats up close. To ensure a smooth visit, consider arriving early to see animals when they're most active and to avoid the biggest crowds. Booking tickets online can save time. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as cafe options can be limited. The sanctuary is well-equipped with picnic areas and clean facilities, making it a comfortable day out for everyone.
🇦🇺 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the keeper talks and daily shows, as these offer invaluable insights into the animals' behaviors and the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
Day-Trippers from Melbourne
It's a perfect escape into nature to see Australia's unique wildlife without venturing too far. To maximize your day, aim to arrive early. You can combine your visit with other Yarra Valley attractions like wineries or the chocolate factory if time permits. Consider booking a tour that includes transport if you prefer not to drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Healesville Sanctuary's Conservation Mission
Visitors can learn about the threats facing Australian wildlife and the sanctuary's role in conservation efforts through keeper talks and educational displays. The sanctuary actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, contributing to their survival. This focus on conservation means that some experiences, like direct animal touching, are no longer offered to prioritize the animals' welfare.
By visiting Healesville Sanctuary, you're not just enjoying a day out; you're directly supporting vital conservation work. Your admission fee contributes to research, breeding programs, and the rehabilitation of injured native animals, ensuring their future for generations to come.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Don't miss the daily schedule of keeper talks and shows, especially the bird of prey demonstration, which is highly praised for being both entertaining and informative.
For families, the nature playgrounds and the indoor 'play vet' hospital are big hits.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. While the sanctuary has cafes, bringing your own snacks and water can be a good idea, especially if you have dietary needs or want to save money. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit