Wildlife HQ Zoo
Discover diverse wildlife at Wildlife HQ Zoo, nestled within the iconic Big Pineapple. Enjoy close encounters and interactive experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals active, fewer crowds
Wildlife HQ Zoo
Best Time
Animals active, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife at Wildlife HQ Zoo, nestled within the iconic Big Pineapple. Enjoy close encounters and interactive experiences.
"Such an incredible day. The staff were very knowledgeable and accomodating with assistance for a wheel chair visitor."
🎯 Zookeeper for a Day
Highly recommended! An unforgettable experience with knowledgeable keepers like Jay and Ash .
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes! The rainforest sections are particularly enjoyable .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 1,332 reviews
Type
Zoo
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emperor Tamarin Twins
Primate Enclosure
Witness the adorable Emperor Tamarin twins, born on New Year's Day, a testament to the zoo's successful breeding programs .
Koala Encounters
Koala Habitat
Get up close with Australia's iconic marsupials. Interactive experiences offer a chance to learn more about these beloved creatures.
Capybara Close-Ups
Capybara Enclosure
See the world's largest rodents! These gentle giants are a unique highlight and can often be viewed quite closely .
The Big Pineapple Train Ride
Connecting The Big Pineapple and Zoo
Enjoy a scenic train ride from the iconic Big Pineapple to the zoo, a fun journey for all ages .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Tickets & Packages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Zookeeper for a Day
Highly recommended! An unforgettable experience with knowledgeable keepers like Jay and Ash.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes! The rainforest sections are particularly enjoyable.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! Keepers often take lots of photos for you during experiences.
🍍 Pineapple Sundae
Don't miss a delicious pineapple sundae at The Big Pineapple cafe after your zoo visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Zookeeper for a Day
Highly recommended! An unforgettable experience with knowledgeable keepers like Jay and Ash.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes! The rainforest sections are particularly enjoyable.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! Keepers often take lots of photos for you during experiences.
🍍 Pineapple Sundae
Don't miss a delicious pineapple sundae at The Big Pineapple cafe after your zoo visit.
👨👩👧 Toddler Friendly
Perfect for little ones! Toddlers love exploring and seeing animals up close.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wildlife HQ Zoo for its well-cared-for animals, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and intimate atmosphere. Many highlight the 'Zookeeper for a Day' experience as exceptional. It's often recommended as a more manageable and less overwhelming alternative to larger zoos, perfect for families and those seeking close animal encounters.
"Such an incredible day. The staff were very knowledgeable and accomodating with assistance for a wheel chair visitor. A lovley clean environment and very well cared for animals. Highly recommend. We look forward to visiting again when the pineapple trees are blooming and the restaurant is completed and opened."
Kelsey LAMB
"Best day ever. Such a beautiful zoo, I highly recommend a trip out here. The animals are so well cared for and loved dearly.
I did the zookeeper for a day experience - if you can do this, DO THIS. Jay was the zookeeper fortunate enough to look after one more animal for a day, and he was so great - told me so many facts about the animals we were seeing, made me feel really comfortable and took a crazy amount of photos so I could remember it forever. Shout out to Ash and her ruffed lemur lady gang, you guys were awesome as well I loved every second. Thank you all for the best 30th birthday present ever. ☺️"
Toni
"Absolutely amazing day! Celebrated our grandsons 1st birthday and we had the best day. Loved every part of it. All the animals were out and about and the set up is wonderful. Also had a lovely pizza for lunch."
Jane Thorley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wildlife HQ Zoo is located at The Big Pineapple, 76 Nambour Connection Rd, Woombye, Sunshine Coast.
Wildlife HQ Zoo is about a 20-30 minute drive from Australia Zoo, offering a different, often less crowded, zoo experience.
Ample parking is available at The Big Pineapple complex, which is where the zoo is situated.
While direct public transport to the zoo itself might be limited, you can reach Woombye or Nambour via train and then consider a taxi or rideshare service.
Yes, the zoo is described as a 'lovely clean environment' and accommodating for wheelchair visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wildlife HQ Zoo is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM.
General admission prices are approximately $42 for adults and $28 for children (3-15 years). Children under 3 are free. Train rides are an additional $10 per person.
Yes, zoo and train packages are available. Consider an annual pass for frequent visits, which offers great value.
It's recommended to check their official website for online ticket purchases, which can often save time at the entrance.
Absolutely! This is a highly recommended, immersive experience where you assist keepers and learn fascinating facts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo is home to over 200 animals, including koalas, emperor tamarins, capybaras, wallabies, deer, and many more.
Yes, Wildlife HQ Zoo offers interactive experiences, including the popular 'Zookeeper for a Day' program.
Yes, a train ride operates from The Big Pineapple to the zoo, which is a highlight for many visitors, especially children.
Yes, it's considered perfect for toddlers, with opportunities for them to explore and see animals up close.
Many animals are in enclosures that allow for close viewing, and some, like wallabies and deer, are semi-free-ranging.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a coffee shop and a pizza restaurant on-site. Visitors have enjoyed the pizza for lunch.
Options include pizza, coffee, and other cafe-style fare. Don't forget to try a pineapple sundae from The Big Pineapple cafe.
It's best to check the zoo's policy on outside food and beverages, but generally, picnic areas might be available.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but cafe menus usually offer a range of choices.
Yes, The Big Pineapple complex has cafes and dining options, including the famous pineapple sundae.
📸 📸 Photography
The enclosures for koalas, capybaras, and the semi-free-ranging wallabies and deer offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, especially during experiences like 'Zookeeper for a Day,' keepers often take many photos for you.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but professional or commercial photography might require permission. Always be mindful of animal welfare.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and more active animals, reducing harsh shadows.
The combination of animals with the backdrop of The Big Pineapple, or the lush rainforest sections, can create unique shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit