Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane is the world's oldest and one of the largest koala sanctuaries, set on the banks of the Brisbane River about 12 km from the CBD. It's a classic Australia wildlife experience in one compact park: koalas in eucalyptus groves, free-roaming kangaroos you can walk among, lorikeet feeding, birds of prey shows and a mix of other native animals in a relaxed bush-style setting.

• General admission to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, giving access to koala enclosures, kangaroo reserve, lorikeet feeding areas, reptile and bird exhibits, platypus house and other native wildlife habitats.
• Access to the daily keeper talks, feeding demos and presentations (e.g. koala talks, lorikeet feeding, sheep dog show, birds of prey demo) — exact schedule varies by day and season.
• Use of on-site facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, shaded seating, basic playgrounds and walking paths around the sanctuary.
• Viewing access to the Brisbane Koala Science Institute public areas, where you can see research spaces and learn about koala conservation.
• On-site cafés and kiosks where you can purchase food and drinks, plus a souvenir shop with Australian wildlife-themed gifts.
• NOT included: transport to/from the sanctuary, paid wildlife photos, premium small-group or behind-the-scenes experiences, animal food for kangaroos/lorikeets, or any separately ticketed tours and encounters.

• Ideal for families, couples and animal lovers who want an easy, close-up Australian wildlife experience without driving far out of the city.
• Great for visitors who specifically want to see koalas and kangaroos in a relaxed, well-run sanctuary rather than a huge zoo spread over many kilometres.
• Suitable for most ages and fitness levels: paths are generally gentle, with plenty of benches and shaded spots for breaks.
• A good option for cruise passengers or short-stay travellers in Brisbane, as it can fit into a half-day or easy full-day outing.
• Less suitable if you dislike animal parks of any kind, strongly prefer seeing animals only in the wild, or struggle with warm outdoor conditions in Queensland summers.

• Travel to Lone Pine by car, bus or river cruise from central Brisbane and enter through the main ticket gate, picking up a park map and checking the day's show timetable.
• Wander through the koala enclosures, watching them feeding, climbing or sleeping in eucalypt trees, and stopping at scheduled keeper talks to learn about their diet, threats and conservation.
• Walk into the open kangaroo reserve, where tame kangaroos and wallabies laze on the grass; you can usually walk among them, take photos and, if you purchase approved feed, gently offer food by hand.
• Time your route to catch a lorikeet feeding session, birds of prey show or sheep dog demonstration, where staff explain behaviours and training while you watch the animals in action.
• Explore reptile and bird exhibits, platypus or wombat areas, and smaller enclosures of dingoes, Tasmanian devils, echidnas and other native species.
• Take breaks at a café, kiosk or picnic area for drinks and food before slowly looping back to the entrance to exit, browse the gift shop and return to the city.

• Tickets / price (starts from): current official day-pass pricing lists adult general admission at around 59 AUD per adult, with cheaper child, student, senior and family passes available; 59 AUD is a realistic starting point per adult for standard entry.
• Opening hours: Lone Pine is generally open daily from 09:00—17:00, with limited hours on certain public holidays; last entry is usually well before closing time, so avoid arriving very late in the afternoon.
• Animal welfare & behaviour: do not chase, grab or harass animals. Only feed animals with approved food bought inside the sanctuary and follow staff instructions at all times.
• Koala interactions: as of mid-2024, koala holding is no longer available; instead, close-up experiences and photo opportunities are offered where you stand near or beside a koala under keeper supervision.
• Accessibility: many paths are suitable for prams and wheelchairs, but some areas can be uneven or gently sloped — check with the sanctuary if you have specific mobility needs.
• Weather & clothing: most of the sanctuary is outdoors; wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sun protection, and bring water, especially in hot or humid weather.

• Location: Lone Pine is in Fig Tree Pocket, about 20 minutes' drive from Brisbane CBD; you can reach it by car, rideshare, public bus or a scenic river cruise up the Brisbane River.
• Time needed: plan around 3—5 hours to walk the grounds, attend a few shows, take photos and have a relaxed lunch or snack break.
• Family friendliness: pram-friendly paths, baby change facilities and child-friendly shows make it easy to visit with kids; animals like kangaroos and lorikeets are clear favourites.
• Food options: you can buy meals and snacks on site or bring your own picnic and use the designated picnic areas; check local rules on where food can be consumed relative to animal enclosures.
• Best timing: mornings often feel cooler and animals may be more active; early arrival also helps if you want to book limited-capacity encounters or avoid the busiest mid-day crowds.

Budget around 59 AUD per adult and 3—5 hours for Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary — a classic Brisbane wildlife park where you get close to koalas, wander among free-roaming kangaroos, watch lorikeet feedings and animal shows, and learn about koala conservation in a relaxed, riverfront bush setting just outside the city.