While the Gold Coast may be most famous for its breathtaking beaches, there are plenty of other exciting things to do, including meeting animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Where is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Currumbin on the southern end of the Gold Coast. The best way to get there is by driving (after picking up your hire car from Bargain Car Rentals).
The sanctuary spans over 27 hectares of lush rainforest and open spaces, providing a natural environment for over 1,000 animals, including some of Australia’s most iconic species.
Since the sanctuary is dedicated to conservation and wildlife rehabilitation, it’s the perfect place for kids to see their favourite animals in a safe and welcoming environment.
Best Things to do at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Being such a big place, you could easily spend a few days exploring every corner of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. However, if you only have a day, here are the best things to do:
Animal Encounters
Want to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s native animals? There’s no better place to do it!
Some animals you can get close to at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary include koalas, kangaroos, lorikeets, crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, echidnas, and wombats.
Activities
As well as animal encounters, there is a range of other activities to experience, including:
- Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show: Every day at 10:45 am and 2:15 pm, you can witness birds of prey, parrots, and other bird species flying freely across the sanctuary.
- Segway Safari: Explore the sanctuary on a guided Segway tour that allows you to explore the park and learn interesting facts about some of the animals and their habitats.
- Wildlife Hospital: As well as being home to hundreds of animals, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the country. You can visit the on-site hospital to see how injured or sick animals are treated.
- TreeTop Challenge: If you love adrenaline-filled activities, then the TreeTop Challenge is for you. This high ropes course features 80 challenges, including ziplines that soar above animal enclosures. Not only is it an exciting activity, but it also provides you with a different perspective of the sanctuary!
- Behind the Scenes Tours: If you and your family want to learn more about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts, why not join a behind-the-scenes tour? Here, you can learn about wildlife care, rehabilitation programs, and breeding initiatives to protect endangered species in Australia.
Gear Up for Wildlife Wonders with Bargain Car Rentals
Touching down on the Gold Coast? Unlock the freedom of a rental car and set your sights on a day of wildlife-filled adventures. If you’re staying in Surfers Paradise, a rental car is the best way to get totally wild for the day with animals from Australia and around the world.
From Brisbane Airport, we offer a fantastic selection of fresh rental cars at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re after a compact, a larger family car, or a touch of luxury, we have the perfect match for your drive.
The sanctuary is just a breezy 30-minute drive from Surfers Paradise, compared to a 55-minute bus journey. With a hire car, you can make the trip your own, wandering through this incredible haven of wildlife at your own pace.
Only a short drive away from Central Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary feels worlds away and is a must-visit. From learning about conservation efforts to getting up close and personal with some of Australia’s native wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQ:
What time does Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary open?
This wildlife wonderland is open daily from 8am to 5pm (closed on 25th of December).
The park may occasionally close during extreme weather conditions. Be sure to check the website for the latest updates before your visit!
How long to spend at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Most visitors spend 3 to 4 hours at the sanctuary, but to truly immerse yourself – enjoying animal encounters, live shows, exhibits, and a bite to eat – setting aside a full day is the way to go!
Where is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the southern end of the Gold Coast (1.5 hours from Brisbane CBD and 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise). You’ll find this haven spanning across 27 hectares of rainforest between Currumbin Beach and the Gold Coast highway.
How to get to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary from Surfers Paradise?
How to get to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary:
- From the South: Take the Pacific Highway onto the Gold Coast Highway at Coolangatta. Follow it to Currumbin and turn right at the traffic lights onto Tomewin Street.
- From the North: Head south on the Gold Coast Highway to Currumbin and turn left at the traffic lights onto Tomewin Street.
- Via the M1 Motorway: Exit at 95 to Stewart Road, turn left onto the Gold Coast Highway, and then right onto Tomewin Street.
What animals are at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Meet an incredible array of native and exotic animals, from cuddly koalas and curious capybaras to echidnas, tortoises, emus, eagles, and so many more. See the entire lineup of the weird and wonderful wildlife here.