This twilight tour lets you share dessert with a Tasmanian devil

Taylah DarnellBy Taylah Darnell
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Dining with the devil – but make it cute.

We all know Tassie does winter differently. Its calendar of seasonal events could turn anyone into a winter person, from pagan-themed festivals and week-long whiskey tastings to a range of winter internships. Still need convincing? What if we told you dessert with a Tasmanian devil was on the agenda?

What is the ‘Dessert with the Devil’ experience?

Hosted by Devils@Cradle in Cradle Mountain, the ‘Dessert with the Devil’ encounter is exactly what it sounds like. In small groups, guests are invited to enjoy an intimate after-dark experience where Tassie devils and dessert co-exist.

Devils@Cradle in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Meet adorable Tassie devils on this rare after-dark tour. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The evening kicks off with an exclusive after-hours tour of Devils@Cradle, guided by a wildlife expert. Once you’ve spent some time with the other creatures that call this special place home, you’ll meet the sanctuary’s resident Tasmanian devils – joeys included! Watch on as they play and scuffle together before tucking into dinner and winding down for bed. And while cuddles aren’t allowed, you may be in for a gentle pat.

Devils@Cradle in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Feast on decadent local desserts after your wildlife encounter. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Leaving your curious new companions won’t be easy, but a decadent dessert spread awaits. And while it can’t quite compete with your meet-and-greet, you’ll be spoilt with locally produced sweets, drinks and marshmallows to roast over an open fire. It’s truly one of the most memorable ways to spend your time in Cradle Mountain.

Why are Tasmanian devils invited to dinner?

Devils@Cradle is more than just a zoo. It’s a dedicated conservation and breeding facility for three of the state’s most important marsupial species – the Eastern quoll, spotted-tail quoll and Tasmanian devil. The latter of which is officially listed as endangered under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. It is also home to a range of injured, orphaned and rescued wildlife from across Tassie.

Devils@Cradle in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
The conservation facility works to protect Tassie devils. (Image: Laura Helle)

It’s places like Devils@Cradle, and the dedicated team behind it, that are working to ensure these native creatures don’t disappear for good. While encounters like ‘Dessert with the Devil’ are fun and exciting for guests, they are also a significant part of broader conservation efforts – which means you are too! These experiences are designed to be both engaging and educational; a symbiotic relationship that benefits both parties. Who wouldn’t want to make a difference and have a blast while doing it?

Devils@Cradle in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
The Tasmanian devil is at risk of extinction. (Image: Lauren Bath)

How do I book?

The ‘Dessert with the Devil’ experience can be booked via the Devils@Cradle website. Tours operate daily from 7pm and run for approximately 1.5 hours. Reservations are essential and will only be available until 30 September 2025. Tickets are priced at $99 per adult and $75 per child.

While every effort is made to create memorable moments, animal interactions are not guaranteed. The welfare of all animals remains the top priority and participation is at the discretion of sanctuary staff. Guests are kindly asked to follow all instructions from keepers and staff.

Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
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