Introducing the Tour
If you’re heading to Tasmania and love wildlife experiences, the 1-hour Tasmanian Devil Feeding Day Tour at Cradle Mountain is worth putting on your list. This tour offers a rare chance to see these fascinating carnivores at their most lively—during their lunchtime feeding. With a focus on education and conservation, it’s a well-organized way to get up close with some of Tasmania’s most beloved creatures.
What we really appreciate about this experience is the expert guided tour from passionate staff, the opportunity to see devils close-up, and the additional animals you might spot during your visit. Plus, the value for money is notable, especially considering the behind-the-scenes access.
One thing to consider is that the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is a must. This experience suits wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone keen to learn more about Tasmania’s unique fauna in an intimate setting.
Key Points
- Close-up encounters with Tasmanian devils during their feeding time
- Expert guides provide detailed insights into conservation efforts
- Flexible access to the entire sanctuary before and after the tour
- Outdoor experience with some walking on uneven terrain
- Affordable pricing enhances the value of this memorable wildlife tour
- Suitable for families and most travelers, with some minor physical activity involved
What to Expect from the Tour
Looking for more options in Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Fully Guided Behind-the-Scenes Experience
This tour starts at the Devils at Cradle sanctuary, where you’ll meet your guide—known for their extensive knowledge and passion for the animals. The highlight is a feeding session conducted in the largest behind-the-scenes enclosure. During this time, you’ll observe the devils at their liveliest, scrambling and fighting for food in a lively, chaotic scene. According to reviews, guides like Sarah are not only friendly but also extremely well-informed, making the experience both fun and educational.
The Feeding Frenzy
The feeding session is a major draw and is often described as “up close and personal.” Reviewers mention that the devils are awake, active, and show off their personalities. One visitor noted, “You can walk around the enclosure and spot the devils easily and as closely as possible,” which is a real plus for wildlife lovers wanting a genuine view. The feeding is generally considered the highlight of the tour, with many saying it exceeded their expectations.
Learning About Conservation
The sanctuary actively supports Tasmanian devil conservation efforts, including breeding programs aimed at preventing the species’ decline. Guides share stories about the unique challenges faced by devils, like disease and habitat loss, giving visitors context on why such sanctuaries matter. Several reviews praised the guides’ passion and knowledge—describing them as “extremely informative,” adding depth to the visit.
Exploring the Sanctuary at Your Leisure
General entry to the sanctuary is included in the ticket, meaning you can arrive early or stay afterward to explore at your own pace. The sanctuary is home to other animals like quolls, which are also healthy and thriving. Some visitors even extended their visit, enjoying the walking paths and animal exhibits after the guided tour.
Practical Details
The tour begins at 1:00 pm at Devils at Cradle, located just outside Cradle Mountain National Park. The tour lasts approximately one hour and is limited to about 45 travelers for a more intimate experience. You are responsible for your own transport to the sanctuary, as there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off.
The Experience Itself—More Than Just a Feeding
The Guides and Their Passion
Based on numerous reviews, the guides stand out for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. Visitors like Marion and Sharon highlighted how the guides made the experience “extremely informative” and “up close and personal.” Many mentioned feeling more connected to the animals thanks to the guides’ stories and ability to answer questions on the spot.
Viewing Opportunities
From the walk-through enclosure, you get a 360-degree view of the feeding frenzy, which many found to be surprisingly intimate and engaging. Reviewers note that although some tours involve a lot of talking, it enhances understanding rather than detracting from the experience. For example, one visitor mentioned that even on a rainy day, the experience was “fabulous” because most of the viewing was undercover.
The Wildlife and the Setting
Tasmanian devils are notoriously shy and nocturnal, but during feeding time, they’re lively and alert. Reviewers often comment that being able to see so many devils awake and active is rare and special. Besides devils, the sanctuary’s other residents, like quolls, also get a lot of attention, with some visitors noticing their healthy, vibrant appearance.
The Value of the Tour
At just $27.46 per person, this experience offers excellent value. It combines the thrill of wildlife observation with an educational component, all in a compact one-hour window. Many reviews highlighted how the knowledgeable guides and close-up views made this a worthwhile addition to their day in Cradle Mountain.
Practicalities and Tips for Visitors
Accessibility & Terrain
The tour involves some walking on unpaved and uneven terrain, so wearing sturdy shoes is advisable. The sanctuary is outdoors and operates in all weather conditions—think layers and rain jackets if needed. The guides do a good job of keeping visitors comfortable and under cover during the feeding.
Timing & Duration
Starting at 1:00 pm, it fits well into a day of exploring Cradle Mountain. With the total experience lasting about an hour, it leaves plenty of time afterward for walking around the sanctuary or heading into the national park for further adventures.
Booking & Cancellation
You can book this tour online, and there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.
No Need to Worry About Photography
Many reviewers enjoyed taking photos, especially since the devils are often awake and active. Some mentioned that the guides’ presence added a layer of understanding that made the photos even more meaningful.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and curious travelers who want an up-close look at Tasmania’s iconic animals. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided experiences that combine education and entertainment. The limited group size fosters a more personal environment, making it ideal for making the most of the interaction with the animals.
If you’re traveling with children, the tours are generally suitable as most travelers found the experience easy to understand and engaging for kids. The only consideration is the walking on uneven terrain, so prepare accordingly.
The Sum Up
The 1-hour Tasmanian Devil Feeding Day Tour at Cradle Mountain offers a fantastic opportunity to see Tasmania’s renowned carnivores in action. With passionate guides, close-up views, and an emphasis on conservation, it’s a memorable experience that combines education with entertainment. The price point of around $27 makes it accessible, especially considering the behind-the-scenes access and the quality of the guided commentary.
This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone keen to support conservation efforts while enjoying a unique animal encounter. The emphasis on expert guides and authentic animal behavior makes this a worthwhile addition to your Cradle Mountain visit.
If you’re looking for a meaningful, engaging, and accessible wildlife experience, this tour ticks all the boxes—just be prepared for some walking and outdoor weather. Overall, it’s a highly-rated, value-packed way to deepen your Tasmania adventure.
FAQ
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking online is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
Is the tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers find it easy for children to participate, especially since the guides are friendly and engaging. A small amount of walking on uneven terrain is involved, so dress accordingly.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes for walking on unpaved surfaces, and layered clothing in case of rain.
Are there any animals besides devils?
Yes, the sanctuary houses other animals like quolls, which are also part of the guided tour and visible during your visit.
Can I see the devils outside feeding time?
General entry to the sanctuary is included, so you can explore and observe the animals at your leisure anytime between 9:30 am and 5 pm.
Is this tour outdoors?
Yes, most of the experience takes place outdoors, with some undercover areas available during feeding.
What is the group size?
Tour groups are capped at around 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.
In summary, this tour combines wildlife fascination with conservation awareness, guided by knowledgeable staff, and offers excellent value for the experience. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a meaningful activity at Cradle Mountain, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Tasmanian itinerary.