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Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

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Welcome to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, and one of Brisbane’s top wildlife attractions. Founded in 1927, this heritage-listed sanctuary offers visitors a rare opportunity to see, touch, and connect with Australia’s native animals in a setting that blends conservation, education, and adventure. Just a 20-minute drive from Brisbane City, Lone Pine spans over 18 hectares of lush bushland and is home to more than 100 koalas and 70 native species, including kangaroos, wombats, and platypuses. From holding a koala to hand-feeding kangaroos, every experience here celebrates Australia’s incredible biodiversity and its deep commitment to wildlife protection.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Brisbane, a weekend getaway, or adding this stop to your Australia holiday package, this 2026 guide covers everything you need, ticket prices, visiting hours, top attractions, insider tips, and nearby experiences, to help you make the most of your visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Australia’s most iconic wildlife experience.

About Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary serves as a place of necessity to any person who wishes to have a close relationship with the Australian animal population, with only 12km distance between Lone Pine and Brisbane CBD. The award-winning wildlife park, covering 18 hectares, is a great place to experience the life of the native species through immersion, interaction, and education in an ethically sustainable and managed environment.

Being the largest and first koala sanctuary in the world, according to the Guinness World Records, Lone Pine has developed and transformed to be a global icon in the conservation and education of wildlife.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Highlights

1. Koala Encounters & Photos

The highlight for most visitors, you can hold a koala and take a professional photo as a souvenir.

  • Koala Hold Experience: Available daily with limited slots.
  • Koala Pat & Photo Session: Ideal for children and families who prefer not to hold.
  • Professional photographers capture the moment for you to cherish.

Pro Tip: Book your Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tickets online and schedule your koala photo early, as time slots fill quickly.

2. Kangaroo Reserve

Walk through a large open field and hand-feed free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies. The experience is safe, family-friendly, and allows for up-close interactions and photos.

3. Birds of Prey Show

Witness Australia’s majestic eagles, owls, and kites perform live demonstrations showcasing their natural hunting and flying skills. A must-see for photographers and animal lovers.

4. Platypus House

A rare chance to see the elusive platypus, one of Australia’s unique creatures. The exhibit offers underwater viewing panels and educational talks about habitat conservation.

5. Reptile House & Tasmanian Devils

Get face-to-face with snakes, lizards, and the famous Tasmanian devils. Expert keepers share insights into their care and breeding programs.

6. Farm Experience & Sheepdog Shows

Learn about Australian farming traditions with daily sheepdog demonstrations and a chance to bottle-feed baby animals in the farmyard area. It is a hit among kids.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Ticket Prices 2026

Ticket Type

Price (AUD)

Price (INR)

Notes

Adult (15+ years)$49₹2,695Includes general admission
Child (3–14 years)$35₹1,925Children under 3 enter free
Student/Senior$39₹2,145ID required
Family Pass (2 Adults + 3 Children)$135₹7,425Best value for families
Koala Hold Photo$30₹1,650Optional add-on

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where to Book:

Pro Tip: Buy online to skip queues and secure your koala photo slot in advance.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit 

  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Opening Hours (2026):
    Daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

     
  • Best Visiting Season:

    • October–April (Spring/Summer): Lush greenery and active wildlife.
    • May–September (Autumn/Winter): Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Best Time of Day: Visit early morning (9:00–11:00 AM) to catch animal feeding sessions and beat the afternoon heat.

Location & How to Reach Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Address: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

From Brisbane City

  • By Car: 20–25 minutes drive via M5 or Moggill Road
  • By Bus: Route 430 or 445 from Queen Street Bus Station
  • By River Cruise: The Mirimar Cruise offers a scenic 75-minute boat ride from South Bank to Lone Pine, a unique and relaxing way to reach the sanctuary

From Gold Coast

  • Drive via M1 Highway (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
  • Day tours available from major Gold Coast hotels

Travel Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Mount Coot-tha Lookout or the Brisbane Botanic Gardens for a full-day adventure.

Facilities & Dining in Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

  • Café Koala – Enjoy Australian coffee, snacks, and light meals overlooking the sanctuary grounds.
  • Picnic Areas – Shaded spots for families to bring lunch.
  • Gift Shop – Offers eco-friendly souvenirs, koala plush toys, and apparel.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths and rest areas throughout the park.

Suggested Itinerary – One Day at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):

  • Arrive early for a koala encounter and photo.
  • Walk through Kangaroo Reserve and hand-feed kangaroos.
  • Watch the Birds of Prey Show.

Afternoon (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM):

  • Lunch at Café Koala.
  • Visit Platypus House and Reptile Enclosure.
  • Attend Sheepdog Demonstration or Farm Experience.

Evening (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM):

  • Relax by the riverfront.
  • Visit the Gift Shop before closing.
  • Return to Brisbane or continue to nearby attractions.

Why Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

  • It is home to over 100 koalas and native Australian animals.
  • The only place in Brisbane where you can legally hold a koala.
  • Proximity to Brisbane city, ideal for day trips.
  • Perfect family-friendly attraction with engaging animal shows and open-air enclosures.
  • Beautiful riverside picnic spots and nature trails.

Insider Tips for Visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

  • Book tickets online for discounts and koala photo reservations.
  • Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on natural trails.
  • Carry sunscreen and hats, especially in the summer months.
  • Respect animal boundaries; all interactions are supervised for animal safety.
  • Plan at least 4–5 hours to experience the sanctuary fully.

Nearby Brisbane Attractions

If you have extra time, explore other Brisbane tourist attractions close to Lone Pine:

  • Mount Coot-tha Lookout – Panoramic city views
  • South Bank Parklands – Riverfront dining and cultural precinct
  • Brisbane Botanic Gardens – Perfect for nature lovers
  • Queensland Museum – Family-friendly exhibits on natural history

Conclusion: Why Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Is Worth Visiting

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has to be on your list of places to visit in case you are planning to visit Brisbane or want to experience the true wildlife in Australia. With the experience of holding a koala and feeding kangaroos, the experience of Australian nature and hospitality is fully encompassed. Visitors to Lone Pine can be found in Brisbane, they are first-time visitors or repeat guests to the wildlife park, and have a wonderful blend of education, conservation and adventure, which is an unforgettable experience to be included in any Brisbane itinerary, which is a must-visit attraction in Australia.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 2026: FAQs

1. Is it possible to play with a koala in Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

 Yes, tourists have an opportunity to have a koala in their arms, controlled by the staff, to capture a special picture. It is advisable to book in advance.

2. What is the length of your stay in Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

Allow yourself approximately 45 hours to visit every exhibit and show at a comfortable pace.

3. What are some of the animals you can see other than koalas ?

 You will find kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, emus, reptiles, and indigenous birds..

4. Should Lone Pine be child-friendly?

  Absolutely! It is also one of the most family-friendly attractions in Brisbane, whose environments are interactive and safe.

5. How do we get the best out of Brisbane?

 Mirimar River Cruise is beautiful and easily accessible, or you can drive or use transport.

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