Ballarat Wildlife Park Tickets

Must Do Experiences

• Hand-feed the massive mob of over 80 free-roaming kangaroos that wander right up to you.

• Enjoy a personal and interactive koala or wombat encounter guided by expert keepers.

• Catch the thrilling live crocodile feeding and educational reptile presentations.

• Explore the new digital self-guided tour to uncover fascinating facts about the exotic and native species at your own pace.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the giant tortoise and lesser-known native reptiles tucked away in the specialized reptile house.

• The park's fully licensed cafe offers surprisingly excellent local coffee and meals, making it a great spot to relax while watching the wildlife.

• Chat with the family owners and long-term keepers who are often walking around and love sharing behind-the-scenes rescue stories.

What Makes it Special

• The highly personal, family-run atmosphere means keepers actually know the names and personalities of almost every animal.

• Unlike larger commercial zoos, the free-roaming kangaroo enclosure allows for completely barrier-free interactions.

• Your visit directly supports the park's active wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs across regional Victoria.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is early in the morning right after opening, when the animals are most active and the kangaroos are eager for their morning feed. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor enclosures, while summer visits are best enjoyed in the cooler morning hours to avoid the midday heat.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a fast shutter speed and get down to eye level when photographing the free-roaming kangaroos for the most natural and engaging portraits.

• The soft, golden morning light provides the best illumination for the koala and wombat enclosures before the harsh midday sun creates heavy shadows.

• Flash photography is strictly prohibited in the reptile house and near the nocturnal animals to protect their sensitive eyes.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Australians highly value wildlife conservation, so visitors are encouraged to listen respectfully to the keepers' educational talks and follow all animal interaction guidelines. It is customary to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of other visitors' families interacting with the animals. Tipping is not expected in Australia, but purchasing from the gift shop or cafe is a great way to support the family-run business.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the Victorian school holidays, the park hosts special daily keeper talks and extended animal encounter sessions.

• The park often participates in regional wildlife conservation awareness weeks, featuring special guest speakers and behind-the-scenes rescue demonstrations.

• In the winter months, you might catch special warming-enrichment activities where keepers provide heated rocks and special treats for the reptiles and mammals.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always wash your hands thoroughly at the provided sanitizing stations after hand-feeding the kangaroos or touching any animals.

• Do not attempt to feed the wildlife any outside food, as human snacks can be highly toxic to native Australian animals.

• Keep a safe distance from the crocodiles and large reptiles, and always stay behind the designated safety barriers during live presentations.