Hobart: Admission Ticket to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

If you’re heading to Hobart and love animals, a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary promises a heartfelt encounter with some of Australia’s most beloved creatures. With rave reviews and a reputation for compassionate care, this sanctuary offers a unique chance to get up close with wildlife that’s often hard to see in the wild or in traditional zoos. From cuddly wombats to the elusive Tasmanian Devil, it’s a day packed with authentic experiences, guided insights, and plenty of photo ops.

What makes this experience stand out? We’re fans of the knowledgeable guides who bring each animal’s story to life, the opportunity to feed free-roaming kangaroos, and the chance to learn about serious conservation efforts. The only thing to consider is that it’s a self-guided experience with optional tours, so if you’re after a structured full-day adventure, you might want to plan accordingly. Perfect for animal lovers, families, and those curious about Tasmania’s unique fauna, this tour offers both fun and education in a relaxed setting.

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Key Points

Accessible and affordable at just $23 per person, offering great value for such an authentic wildlife experience.
Includes a guided tour and kangaroo food, making it engaging and interactive.
Supports animal rescue and conservation efforts, adding a meaningful dimension to your visit.
Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Hobart, easy to fit into a day trip.
Wheelchair accessible with parking available on-site.
A highly rated experience with a 4.7/5 star rating based on 100 reviews, reflecting consistent visitor satisfaction.

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Why Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary?

A trip to Tasmania wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its wildlife firsthand, and Bonorong delivers just that in a caring, educational setting. It’s not just a zoo; it’s a sanctuary that takes in injured, orphaned, or non-releasable animals, giving them a second chance while educating visitors about their plight and conservation needs.

The proximity to Hobart makes it a prime option for a half-day or full-day outing, especially if you’re keen to see animals like Tasmanian devils, wombats, and koalas without the crowds often found in larger zoos. The admission ticket includes a bag of kangaroo food and access to daily guided tours—a thoughtful touch that encourages interaction and learning.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

While the experience is primarily self-guided, the sanctuary offers daily guided tours that add depth to your visit. These tours are led by knowledgeable keepers who are clearly passionate about their work. You’ll get to meet the staff’s favorites, learn about each species’ individual stories, and understand the ongoing conservation efforts.

The first highlight is feeding the free-roaming kangaroos. With a provided food bag, you can walk among these gentle animals, observe their playful behavior, and capture some fantastic photos. Visitors often mention how close and relaxed the kangaroos are, making it a highlight for families and animal enthusiasts alike.

Next, the sanctuary showcases animals like Tasmanian devils, wombats, and echidnas—many of which are rescues that would not survive in the wild. Reviewers shared their excitement about finally seeing Tasmanian devils in person, with one even noting that it was “beautiful to see these animals up close, especially as a tourist.” The keepers’ passion shines through as they share stories about each animal, their injuries, and their paths to recovery.

Other notable residents include sugar gliders, eastern quolls, parrots, and kookaburras, giving visitors a comprehensive look at Australian wildlife. Some reviews mention observing veterinary procedures and the animal hospital, which adds an educational layer about the sanctuary’s commitment to animal welfare.

The Experience and What You’ll Love

Feeding kangaroos is undoubtedly the star activity. Visitors can walk freely in an open area with friendly kangaroos coming close for treats. Reviewers like Alison from New Zealand highlighted that “patting and feeding kangaroos and seeing them at close quarters… was a buzz.” It’s an experience that feels genuine, rather than staged, especially as the kangaroos seem accustomed to visitors.

The guided tours add an educational element. Guides like the staff at Bonorong are described as “super friendly and obviously love their job,” which translates into lively, informative commentary. You’ll learn about each species’ threats and what is being done to protect them—making your visit both fun and meaningful.

Photos and encounters with the animals are abundant. Many reviewers have remarked on how well-maintained and clean the sanctuary is, which enhances the overall experience. The sanctuary’s focus on rescue means that animals are often in excellent condition and relaxed around visitors—an important factor for families or animal lovers wanting authentic interactions.

Food and amenities are also worth mentioning. While the ticket doesn’t include food or drinks, the onsite café has been praised for its delicious offerings, complementing the time spent exploring. The parking is free and conveniently located, making logistics straightforward.

Practical Details and Tips

Ticket Price and Value: At just $23, the admission offers excellent value considering the chance to see and interact with animals you might only otherwise see on a TV documentary. The ticket includes a bag of kangaroo food and access to guided tours, which elevates the experience without added costs.

Duration: You can enjoy the sanctuary at your own pace for up to 365 days after purchase, providing flexibility. Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring, feeding, and listening to the guides.

Accessibility: The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible, with onsite parking available, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Booking and Cancellation: With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, booking is low-risk, and plans can be adjusted easily.

Restrictions: Remember, animals cannot be brought onto the property without permission, and smoking, vaping, or sporting equipment like skateboards is prohibited—these rules help maintain a safe environment for animals and visitors.

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Real Visitor Insights

Authentic Care: Multiple reviews emphasize how much the staff care about the animals—one mentioned observing vets examining and operating on injured animals, showing the sanctuary’s medical commitment.
Close Encounters: Visitors consistently highlight how accessible and relaxed the animals are, especially kangaroos and wombats, making for memorable photos and interactions.
Educational Value: Guides have been praised for sharing detailed info about the animals’ stories, their threats, and conservation measures, making the visit informative beyond just adorable animal sightings.
Family-Friendly: With gentle animals and engaging guides, Bonorong is suitable for families with kids, who love the tactile and visual experiences.
Support for Conservation: Buying a ticket supports rescue efforts, which many visitors appreciate, knowing they contribute to vital animal welfare work.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

Animal lovers and nature enthusiasts will find Bonorong to be a highlight of their Tasmania trip. It’s ideal for families seeking interactive experiences, and solo travelers wanting a meaningful day out. If you’re interested in conservation, the sanctuary’s efforts to rehabilitate and protect native wildlife will resonate.

Those with limited time in Hobart will appreciate how accessible and rewarding this visit is. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or more structured tour experiences, you might want to combine this with other activities.

Final Thoughts

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers a genuine, heartfelt glimpse into Tasmania’s unique animal world. Its combination of interactive encounters, expert guides, and conservation focus makes it an engaging choice for anyone interested in Australian wildlife. The ticket price of $23 represents excellent value, especially when considering the impact your visit contributes to animal rescue efforts.

This experience is particularly perfect for those who enjoy up-close animal encounters and want to learn more about the native species risking their survival. Its relaxed setting and dedicated staff ensure you’ll leave feeling inspired and connected to Tasmania’s wilderness.

If you’re visiting Hobart and want an authentic, educational wildlife experience, Bonorong is well worth your time—and your camera’s battery!

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for multiple visits?
Yes, the ticket is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, giving you ample flexibility to visit at your convenience.

Does the experience include a guided tour?
Yes, your ticket includes access to daily guided tours led by knowledgeable keepers who share insights about the animals and conservation efforts.

Can I feed the animals myself?
You can feed the kangaroos with the provided bag of food. Other animals are viewed during guided tours or at designated viewing areas.

Is parking available at the sanctuary?
Yes, there is on-site parking, and it’s free for visitors.

Are the facilities wheelchair accessible?
Absolutely. The sanctuary is designed to be accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and as animals are present, avoiding strong perfumes or scents is considerate. No smoking or vaping is allowed within the sanctuary.

In summary, a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary provides a meaningful, fun, and visually engaging experience that supports vital conservation work. It’s an ideal choice for animal lovers, families, and curious travelers eager to connect with Tasmania’s native wildlife in a responsible setting.