Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary South Australia
Experience authentic Australian wildlife encounters at Warrawong, from platypus spotting to hands-on kangaroo feeding. A true sanctuary with passionat...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximize animal interactions
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary South Australia
Best Time
Maximize animal interactions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Australian wildlife encounters at Warrawong, from platypus spotting to hands-on kangaroo feeding. A true sanctuary with passionate keepers.
"A hidden gem with heart and hands-on encounters, Warrawong delivers authentic Australian wildlife experiences."
🎯 Check the Daily Schedule
Crucial for planning! Attend keeper presentations for the best animal encounters. :calendar:
🥕 Bring Extra Carrots
Kangaroos and emus love them! A small fee for extra feed is often available. :foodie:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Platypus Pond
Rainforest Ecosystem
Catch a glimpse of shy platypuses in their natural habitat within South Australia's only naturally sustained rainforest.
Kangaroo Feeding
Open Paddock
Get up close and personal, feeding carrots and even peanut butter to friendly kangaroos and emus.
+1
Koala Encounters
Various enclosures
Meet adorable koalas, with opportunities for gentle petting and learning about their habits.
+1Reptile Presentation
Presentation Area
An engaging and educational session, often featuring a memorable hands-on experience with snakes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Interactive Experience
Plan Around Keeper Presentations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check the Daily Schedule
Crucial for planning! Attend keeper presentations for the best animal encounters. :calendar:
🥕 Bring Extra Carrots
Kangaroos and emus love them! A small fee for extra feed is often available. :foodie:
🐍 Don't Miss Reptile Show
Jen's presentation is highly praised for its energy and hands-on snake experience. :snake:
☕ Cozy Cafe with Fireplace
Warm up after exploring with great food and coffee, especially nice on cooler days. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check the Daily Schedule
Crucial for planning! Attend keeper presentations for the best animal encounters. :calendar:
🥕 Bring Extra Carrots
Kangaroos and emus love them! A small fee for extra feed is often available. :foodie:
🐍 Don't Miss Reptile Show
Jen's presentation is highly praised for its energy and hands-on snake experience. :snake:
☕ Cozy Cafe with Fireplace
Warm up after exploring with great food and coffee, especially nice on cooler days. :coffee:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the sanctuary and its rainforest. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, calling it a 'hidden gem' with 'heart and hands-on encounters.' The passionate staff, well-cared-for animals, and interactive experiences like feeding kangaroos and holding snakes are consistently praised. It's considered a more personal and authentic alternative to larger zoos, with many planning return visits.
"Highly recommend this amazing sanctuary!!
So hands on and interactive with the animals and the staff are so passionate and informative when presenting the shows.
Such a great kid friendly place for all ages and even so much for the adults to enjoy!
We didn’t even get to explore the whole place it’s massive and so much to Jam Pack in we nearly need another day to explore the forest and ruins.
We loved this way more than the Adelaide zoo as all the staff absolutely love what they do and it shows so much when they are happy to chat to everyone. The animals are so well loved and looked after and the whole place is so neat and tidy.
The food and coffee was so good and the chips were amazing and the kids rated the chips 10/10
Definitely will be going again next visit to Adelaide"
Hayley Wilson
"Good 1:1 experiences with the animals. The kangaroos and emus are very chill and enjoy being pat and fed. We were able to feed peanut butter to dingos, boop noses with koalas and hold a snake for no added fee. It is vital to attend all the animal shows/ education sessions otherwise there is not a whole lot to do. Following the schedule our day was full and it's very easy to spend the whole day there."
Crystal King
"This sanctuary actually feels like a sanctuary. The animals seem so happy and the keepers clearly love them and their job. I was here from open until close and had the absolute best day! I can’t wait to come back and do some of their cool animal experiences."
Renee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Adelaide Hills. Driving is the most convenient option, taking approximately 40-50 minutes from Adelaide CBD. Public transport options are limited, so consider a rental car or ride-sharing service if you don't have your own vehicle.
Public transport to Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is challenging. While buses run to nearby areas in the Adelaide Hills, you may still need a significant walk or a taxi/rideshare to reach the sanctuary itself. It's best to check current Adelaide Metro bus routes and schedules.
There is ample parking available at Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect day trip destination from Adelaide. You can easily spend a full day exploring the grounds and enjoying the animal encounters.
Driving is generally the easiest way to get to Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary with kids, as it allows for flexibility with nap times and carrying gear. The drive itself is scenic through the Adelaide Hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, you can expect to pay an entry fee. It's always best to check the official Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary website for the most up-to-date pricing and any special offers before your visit.
Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase at the entrance to Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary. However, booking online in advance might be recommended during peak seasons or for special events to guarantee entry.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or families. Check the sanctuary's website or inquire at the ticket counter for any current concession rates or package deals.
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary generally operates during daylight hours. It's essential to verify their current opening and closing times on their official website, as these can change seasonally or for special events.
While some general animal encounters like feeding kangaroos are available to all visitors, specific premium experiences or behind-the-scenes tours might require advance booking. Check the sanctuary's website for details on booking these.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of Australian native animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, emus, dingos, platypuses, and various bird species like rainbow lorikeets.
Yes! Warrawong is known for its interactive experiences. You can often feed kangaroos and emus, boop koala noses, and even hold snakes during presentations.
Keeper presentations are a highlight, offering educational talks and feeding demonstrations. They are highly engaging and provide excellent opportunities for close encounters.
Warrawong is very family-friendly. The hands-on experiences and engaging presentations make it a hit with children of all ages, and adults will enjoy it too!
Yes, the sanctuary features a unique rainforest ecosystem where you can spot platypuses and other wildlife. It's a beautiful area to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves food and drinks. Visitors have praised the quality of the food, including chips and coffee.
The cafe offers a range of options, including meals, snacks, and beverages. Many visitors have specifically mentioned enjoying the chips and coffee.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally a good idea to check with the sanctuary if you plan to bring your own food. Picnics might be allowed in designated areas.
The cafe is generally family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can refuel after exploring the sanctuary.
It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff or check their menu online for specific dietary options. Many cafes now offer vegetarian and vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The kangaroo feeding areas, the platypus pond, and the rainforest trails offer fantastic photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for colorful birds like rainbow lorikeets too!
Yes, photography is generally encouraged. However, always be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash photography, especially during presentations or when animals are resting.
While general photography is allowed, some specific areas or animal encounters might have minor restrictions to ensure animal welfare. Always follow the guidance of the sanctuary staff.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing animals from a distance, but a standard zoom lens is versatile for most shots. A wide-angle lens is great for the rainforest and landscape shots.
Yes, koalas are a major attraction. You'll have opportunities to photograph them in their enclosures, and sometimes even during close encounters.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The keeper presentations are not only educational but also highly entertaining, keeping young minds engaged. Don't miss the chance for kids to potentially hold a snake during the reptile show – a guaranteed thrill! With a cafe offering kid-friendly food options and plenty of space to explore, it’s easy to spend a full day here. The rainforest walk offers a different kind of adventure, and spotting a platypus can be a magical moment for the whole family.
❤️ Couples and Nature Lovers
Enjoy a relaxed pace exploring the grounds, and consider attending the keeper presentations for fascinating insights into Australian wildlife. The cozy cafe with a fireplace is perfect for warming up with a coffee or a meal after your explorations, making it a lovely spot for a romantic outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The rainforest environment provides opportunities for capturing the unique flora and fauna, including the elusive platypus. Don't miss the birdlife, especially the vibrant rainbow lorikeets, which are often seen at feeding stations.
The keeper presentations can also yield great action shots, particularly during feeding times or when animals are engaged with the presenters. Remember to use appropriate lenses and settings to capture the best of the sanctuary's inhabitants. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Rainforest Ecosystem
This unique habitat is particularly important as Warrawong is one of the few places on mainland South Australia where platypuses can be found breeding naturally.
Hands-On Animal Encounters: The Warrawong Difference
+1 These direct encounters create memorable moments and a deeper connection with the animals. The sanctuary's keeper presentations are central to these experiences. Staff are passionate and knowledgeable, making educational talks engaging and fun. A standout is often the reptile presentation, where visitors can have the unforgettable experience of holding a snake, such as an olive python.
A Sanctuary with Heart: Animal Welfare and Keeper Dedication
Many visitors express their intention to return, citing the exceptional care the animals receive and the overall positive vibe of the sanctuary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit