Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Entry Ticket

Our review focuses on the experience of visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Queensland, Australia, based on the experience of thousands of visitors. We love how this sanctuary offers a close-up look at Australia’s iconic wildlife, from cuddly koalas to colorful lorikeets, all within a sprawling 27-hectare setting. The chance to see live conservation efforts, enjoy interactive shows, and feed wildlife makes this a standout day out.

What we find especially appealing is the variety of attractions—from the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show to the Outback Springs precinct—ensuring there’s something for all. The value for the price ($46) is clear, given the inclusiveness of daily shows and access to multiple themed areas. One consideration is that, while wheelchair accessible, some paths might not suit all mobility aids, so it’s best for those with mobility challenges to plan accordingly.

This experience suits families, wildlife lovers, or anyone craving an authentic look at Australian fauna with fun activities woven in. Whether you’re there for the wildlife encounters, educational shows, or just a relaxing day exploring natural habitats, Currumbin offers a genuine taste of Australia’s natural beauty.

Key Points

Affordable Entry: At $46, it offers good value considering the range of experiences available.
Wildlife Encounters: Feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and interact with lorikeets—perfect for animal lovers.
Educational & Conservation Focus: Learn about wildlife hospitals and conservation projects.
Family-Friendly: Plenty of kid-friendly activities like playgrounds, train rides, and splash pads.
Diverse Attractions: From aviaries and trails to dinosaur replicas, there’s lots to discover.
Accessible but Considerate: Wheelchair accessible, though some paths may be tricky for certain mobility aids.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Location and Accessibility

Located just 30 minutes from Surfers Paradise and less than 10 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible. Its proximity to a famous surf beach makes it an ideal half-day activity for travelers exploring the Gold Coast. The sanctuary’s size (27 hectares) means plenty of walking, but the presence of a miniature train helps visitors cover large parts of the park comfortably.

Visitors appreciate that the sanctuary is not-for-profit, which means proceeds go directly into wildlife care, including one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world. This adds an extra layer of value—your visit supports vital conservation efforts.

Ticket Price & Overall Value

At $46 per person, the ticket grants full-day access to all daily shows and attractions. Many reviewers comment on the “very good value for money,” especially when considering the variety of things to see and do. For example, Sushila, an Australian visitor, highlights that the “train that goes round the whole center” allows easy exploration, making the experience more enjoyable without tiring your legs.

What’s Included?

• Entry to the sanctuary, including the Lost Valley and Outback Springs
• All scheduled shows, like the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show and Aboriginal Cultural Presentation
• Use of the miniature train for quick travel across the park

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Not Included?

• Food and drinks (though visitors can bring their own picnic)
• Transfers to and from the site

Animal Encounters and Attractions

Wildlife Hospital & Conservation

A major highlight for many visitors is the Wildlife Hospital. Watching vets in action and learning about ongoing conservation projects makes the visit more meaningful. As Sue from Australia mentions, “the Aborigines did amazing dances,” which adds cultural richness to the day. The hospital’s presence underlines that the sanctuary is committed to saving and caring for native animals, not just entertaining guests.

Bird Shows & Animal Presentations

The Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show is a crowd favorite. Expect to see native birds displaying natural behaviors, soaring overhead, and landing on your outstretched hands. This show’s popularity is apparent—reviewers like Terry from the UK say, “the shows are so pleasant and helpful,” enhancing the educational aspect.

Animal Encounters: Koalas and Kangaroos

Getting close to koalas is a must-do. You have the option to hold a koala and purchase souvenir photographs, which many find a delightful addition. Feeding kangaroos is another highlight, with several reviews noting how many kangaroos are present and friendly, such as Paul from the UK, who says, “I loved the Kangaroos.”

The New Outback Springs & Lost Valley

The Outback Springs precinct offers an authentic Aussie adventure, complete with rugged landscapes and native flora. The Lost Valley walk-through aviary is one of the largest in the southern hemisphere, allowing you to walk amidst free-flying birds in expansive, natural-like enclosures.

Extinction Trail & Dinosaur Encounters

Travel back in time along the Extinction Trail, where replicas of dinosaurs and megafauna bring prehistoric history alive. Reviewers noted that “you come face to face with dinosaurs,” making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Other Activities: Train Ride and Splash Pad

The miniature train is an easy way to explore the park, giving perspectives on the different habitats and attractions. The kids’ splash pad and play areas add a welcome break, especially on hot days. Maree from Australia describes it as “an excellent family day out,” highlighting its size and kid-friendly features.

Lorikeet Feeding Fun

The wild lorikeet feeding at 8 am and 4 pm is a charming ritual. All you need is a small gold coin donation, and dozens of rainbow-colored birds will land on your arms and head—an experience that’s both playful and photogenic. Sue from Australia mentions that the birds landing on her plate made her experience unforgettable.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes; there’s a fair amount of walking, especially if you explore all areas.
• Bring your own food for a picnic—there are designated areas—and save on the cost of food inside the park.
• Plan to catch the shows; they run throughout the day and are a great way to rest your legs while learning about native wildlife.
• Consider visiting early for the lorikeet feed at 8 am—it’s less crowded and more magical.
• Check the wheelchair accessibility and plan accordingly if needed, as some paths may not be suitable for all mobility aids.
• Bring a camera or phone with a good zoom for wildlife photography. Many reviewers mention capturing fantastic bird and animal shots.

Who Will Love This Sanctuary?

If you’re seeking a family-friendly outing, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary delivers a full day of fun and education. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to get up close with native animals and learn about conservation efforts. Those interested in Australian culture can enjoy the Aboriginal presentations and Australian-themed precincts.

Travelers who value value for money will find the entry fee covers a wide array of experiences, from shows to animal encounters, making it a worthwhile spend. However, those with limited mobility or who prefer a more relaxed pace should plan ahead, especially considering some paths may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.

FAQ About Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

How much does the entry ticket cost?
The general admission ticket is $46 per person, which provides access to all shows and attractions within the park for one day.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes entry, access to the Lost Valley, Extinction Trail, Outback Springs, all daily shows, and use of the miniature train.

Are there any animal encounters included?
Yes, you can feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and participate in the wild lorikeet feeding with a gold coin donation. Holding a koala is optional and for an extra cost.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible, but some paths might not suit all mobility aids. It’s best to check ahead if you have specific needs.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic at designated grounds throughout the park.

What shows are available?
Popular shows include the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show and the Aboriginal Cultural Presentation. Check the schedule on the day of your visit to catch the highlights.

Is there a train ride?
Yes, the miniature train is included in your ticket and is a convenient way to see the park’s different areas.

How long does a typical visit last?
Most visitors spend a full day exploring, watching shows, and engaging with the animals, especially if they want to experience all the attractions.

When is the best time to visit?
Early in the day, especially for lorikeet feeding at 8 am, and during weekdays if you prefer fewer crowds.

Are there options for guided tours?
The experience relies on self-guided exploration, but park staff and volunteers around the sanctuary are very helpful with questions and recommendations.

Final Thoughts

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers a well-rounded, authentic Australian wildlife experience that balances fun, education, and conservation. Its accessible location, variety of attractions, and reasonable price make it an excellent choice for families, wildlife lovers, and those looking for a meaningful day out on the Gold Coast.

The opportunity to see animals like koalas and kangaroos up close, enjoy engaging bird shows, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts makes it more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a celebration of Australia’s incredible native species. The inclusion of interactive activities, like lorikeet feeding and train rides, ensures that visitors of all ages stay entertained and inspired.

While some paths may require a bit of planning for those with mobility challenges, the overall experience is seamless, friendly, and highly rewarding. If you’re after a genuine, enjoyable, and educational wildlife adventure, Currumbin is hard to beat—just remember to pace yourself and soak in the Aussie charm.

Experience the best of Australia’s native wildlife. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary combines fun, education, and conservation all in one accessible and affordable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: