A Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park Guide

Here’s what you need to know before making a trip to the famous South Australian wildlife centre.

Kangaroo Island (also known as Karta Pintingga – meaning ‘island of the dead’) has long drawn visitors with its incredible levels of biodiversity. Separated from the mainland of South Australia thousands of years ago, it has provided a home for animals such as its own species of kangaroo, the Australian sea lion and the tammar wallaby, as well as being a haven to mainland interlopers, like koalas and platypus.

And visiting the KI animal experts and their charges over at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is a must-do for any holidaymaker.

So, are you ready to get up close to a koala and pat a roo? We’ve answered all your questions about the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.

Feeding two kangaroos at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. — Get up close and personal with Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park’s animals. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

What is Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park?

KI Wildlife Park has been open for over thirty years. Today it is the home of over 150 native Australian species and more than 600 animals.

You can come here to feed kangaroos and wallabies, visit little penguins, interact with marmosets, spot pademelons, and even take a walk with a dingo!

A close up of a kangaroo at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. — KI Wildlife Park is home to over 150 native Australian species. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Where is Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park?

It can be found in the centre of the island, three kilometres past the town of Parndana.

Has Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park recovered from the bushfires?

In 2020, the community of Kangaroo Island was rocked by destructive bushfires, which devastated the local wildlife population. While Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park was saved through firefighting efforts, sadly, many animals were killed and injured around the island.

Since then, the Kangaroo Island Koala and Wildlife Rescue Centre was established at the park. Hundreds of injured and orphaned koalas and other native Australian fauna sent there for rehabilitation, release, or long-term care in the park.

As well as visiting the park’s attractions, visitors can now donate to its rescue centre. They can even adopt their favourite animal; and help provide for its care and wellbeing, long after getting the ferry back to the mainland.

A koala rests in a gum tree at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park — Hundreds of injured and orphaned koalas were saved after the bushfires. (Image: Tourism Australia.)

When is the best time to go to Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park?

The wildlife park is open daily, from 9.30am till 5pm, except Christmas Day. Owner Dana Mitchell says visitors might want to also tailor the timing of their visits according to the time of the year.

“In summer, the morning and afternoon are the best times to visit," she says. “Otherwise, any time of the day works."

Dana also explains that there are different park highlights that change between the seasons, such as in spring: “It’s baby season, which is exciting," she explains. “There are baby koalas, quokkas, birds and more."

Koala's in the tree at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park — Spend the day with these furry creatures. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

What other animals can I see at KI Wildlife Park?

Koalas might steal the show and melt our hearts, but there are many other, captivating animals you need to see at the park. Buy a bag of feed to get up close to wallabies and roos and feel the warmth of a snake’s body against yours, as you hold it close.

Now, you can even choose to take a walk like no other – with Loki, the dingo.

“Dingo walks are something that has been newly added," says Dana. “They’re a lot of fun."

There are also new exotic experiences, such as with meerkats and servals (a species of African cat). While all these can be booked individually on the KI Wildlife Park website , you can also organise a private tour for a more curated and personalised experience of the Kangaroo Island wildlife.

A kookaburra sits in a tree at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. — You can see lots of different animals in the park. (Image: Alana Jayne Elgazzar)

Is Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park good for families?

Th wildlife park is perfect for kids (and, it goes without saying, big kids too). There are plenty of educational activities, and chances for families to fall in love with the natural world. Note that there are some restrictions on what the littlies can do, such as needing to be strong enough to hold a koala for the petting section.

Child pats Kangaroo Island kangaroos. — Kids will love Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. (Image: Alana Jayne Elgazzar)

Is there food at the wildlife park?

There is a small cafe at the wildlife centre, serving up ice creams and coffees. Nearby there is also a picnic area for BYO lunches. The perfect opportunity to devour a spread of KI produce, no? (You can read more about our favourite places to eat on Kangaroo Island here.)

Little girl feeds a kangaroo at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. — There are plenty of opportunities for families to fall in love with the natural world. (Image: Megan Crabb)

How much does it cost?

Tickets cost $35 for an adult, $30 for a concession, $20 for a child and from $100 for a family ticket. To check out the full, up-to-date list, head to the park website .

Head to our Kangaroo Island travel guide for more on what to do while you’re there.

No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm , you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

2. The Oxley Estate

A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

3. Oneday Estate

Oneday Estate is a must-visit. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot.

The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

The restaurant is also a sight to behold, an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

5. Bellarine Railway

If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway . The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and the Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

6. The Dunes

waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine — Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

dolphins playing in The Bellarine — Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, humpback and southern right whales, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

8. Jack Rabbit

aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard — Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

A guide to visiting Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park