If you’re holidaying in Brisbane and seeing a koala is at the top of your bucket list, visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must!
Opened in 1927 with just two koalas, Jack and Jill, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is now the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, home to over 100 koalas. Spanning 44 acres, this sanctuary is known for its commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Lone Pine’s efforts to provide a sanctuary and rehabilitate animals make it not just a tourist attraction but a significant player in Australian wildlife preservation.
As well as koalas, Lone Pine houses kangaroos, platypuses, dingoes and much more.
With its immersive experiences and hands-on encounters, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers.
How to Get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is located in Fig Tree Pocket, south of Brisbane. The easiest way to get there is to hire a car and drive.
Alternatively, the Koala and River Cruise departs from South Bank and offers a scenic 75-minute journey along the Brisbane River before arriving at the sanctuary’s dock.
Best Things to Do at Lone Pine
Now that you know more about Lone Pine and how to get there, what are the best things to do inside the sanctuary?
Koala Experiences
While koala holding is no longer allowed at Lone Pine (as of 1 July 2024), there are plenty of other ways to interact with them.
One of the most popular experiences is the Koala Up Close encounter, which lets you get right up to a koala and pat it while it sits in a tree. At the same time, the koala’s handler tells you all about their daily routine, behaviours, and unique personalities.
Dingo Encounter
Lone Pine’s newest wildlife encounter lets you get up close and personal with dingoes, one of Australia’s native animals.
During this encounter, you can sit next to and pat the dingo while getting your photo taken.
Barn Encounter
If your kids love animals, then the Barn Encounter is a must!
During this experience (designed exclusively for children aged three to 13), children hold guinea pigs and baby chicks, feed goats and sheep, and learn what it takes to look after them as a wildlife keeper.
Platypus viewing
At Lone Pine, you can see one of Australia’s most elusive and fascinating animals – the platypus.
This shy, semi-aquatic animal is tough to spot in the wild. However, the sanctuary provides a behind-the-scenes opportunity to see them swimming in their specially-designed exhibit.
If you are there in the afternoon, you may even get the chance to prepare and give them their afternoon snack!
Wildlife talks
Throughout the day, the sanctuary’s wildlife experts give talks and presentations on the animals they care for. These informative sessions provide insights into koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, and more.
Known for its conservation efforts and being the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine must be on your Brisbane itinerary. From seeing koalas up close to feeding farm animals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Buckle up with Bargain Car Rentals in Brisbane
Flying into Brisbane? Renting a car is the simplest way to reach this wildlife wonderland. Just 20 minutes from the airport, you’ll be cruising towards unforgettable animal encounters in no time.
Choose from a wide selection of fresh rental cars at fantastic prices, right at Brisbane Airport. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly compact for navigating city streets, a spacious family car, or something a little more luxe, we’ve got you covered.
With your own set of wheels, you can wander through Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at your own pace – no bus schedules or cruise timetables to tie you down. Follow your curiosity and explore this sanctuary on your own terms with Brisbane car hire.
FAQ:
Where is Lone Pine?
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is tucked away in the lush suburb of Fig Tree Pocket – only 12km from Brisbane CBD. Surrounded by thick greenery, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city – perfect for wildlife lovers of all ages to meet Australia’s furry, feathery and scaly icons.
How long should you spend at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
To fully immerse yourself in the magic of this koala sanctuary, plan to set aside 2–4 hours.
How do you get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane CBD?
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is just a scenic 25-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD along the M5 freeway. With free on-site parking, visiting couldn’t be easier—simply pull into the main entrance, park your car, and get ready for a day of wildlife wonder.
Is koala holding available at Lone Pine?
As of July 1, 2024, Lone Pine Sanctuary has retired its koala-holding experience, responding to “increasingly strong” visitor feedback. In its place, the sanctuary now offers an ‘up-close’ encounter, giving guests the chance to share space with these iconic Australian animals.
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