Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Entry Ticket + River Cruise from Brisbane

Must Do Experiences

• Hold a cuddly koala for a memorable photo encounter

• Watch the thrilling birds of prey show at the sanctuary's outdoor arena

• Feed kangaroos and spot wombats up close in the open ranges

• Explore the Australian Reptile Park section to see snakes and lizards

Hidden Gems

• Visit the platypus house early in the morning when the shy marsupials are most active

• The river cruise offers stunning views of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge—perfect for photos

• The sanctuary's conservation trails provide quiet, shaded paths away from the main crowds

What Makes it Special

• The only way to reach Lone Pine is by a relaxing roundtrip river cruise from downtown Brisbane

• You get three uninterrupted hours to explore at your own pace, with no rush between exhibits

• The sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, with a rich history in marsupial conservation

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy shorter queues for popular encounters. Spring and autumn offer mild weather perfect for outdoor walking, while summer mornings are less hot and ideal for spotting active wildlife.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• The koala encounter area offers the best natural light for photos—arrive early to secure a prime spot

• Use the river cruise deck for panoramic shots of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge

• Flash photography is not allowed during wildlife encounters to keep the animals calm

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Australian wildlife encounters are designed to be respectful and low-stress—keep voices low and follow all guide instructions Tipping is not expected or required for sanctuary staff or cruise operators Dispose of trash in designated bins to help maintain the sanctuary’s natural habitat

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Seasonal events like ‘Koalas in the Snow’ during winter and Easter egg hunts bring festive activities to the sanctuary

• Check the sanctuary’s calendar for limited-time feeding sessions and behind-the-scenes tours

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always maintain a safe distance from animals unless explicitly permitted during a guided encounter

• Wash your hands or use sanitizing stations after animal contact areas

• Supervise children closely near enclosures and waterways at all times