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Guided Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre & Laboratory
At a glance
Ticket type
E-ticket / Mobile
Confirmation
Instant
Accessibility
Wheelchair friendly
Suitable for
All ages
Highlights
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See what the world looked like 25 million years ago
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One of the most significant fossil deposits worldwide
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Showcases fossils from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area
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Newly renovated and upgraded centre
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Tells the unique story of the evolution of Australia's wildlife
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Innovative interactive displays
Ticket Options
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guided tour - family (2a+2c)
Details
Adult
- Book for your selected date above. Partner checkout confirms availability.
- Enter with voucher
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Valid on the selected date
Duration
-
No cancellation
This rate may be non-refundable. See package terms before you book.
About this package
Ticket types
- ADULT
- CHILD
- Per Package
About Guided Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre & Laboratory
Step back 25 million years at the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre in Mount Isa, where one of the world's richest fossil sites comes to life through interactive exhibits, a stunning prehistoric diorama, and an exclusive guided tour of the fossil laboratory. This is your chance to see how Australia's unique wildlife evolved and watch paleontologists at work in the heart of Outback Queensland.
Local Legends & Stories
The Riversleigh fossil deposits reveal a lost world of giant marsupials, flightless birds, and ancient snakes that once roamed a subtropical rainforest — a stark contrast to the arid Outback landscape that covers the area today. Indigenous communities in the region have long held deep connections to this land, and the fossils tell a story that spans millions of years of Earth's history.
Must Do Experiences
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Explore the giant diorama depicting life in the ancient Riversleigh rainforest 25 million years ago
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Watch the immersive movie presentation by paleontological experts in the centre's theatre
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Join the guided tour of the Riversleigh Fossil Laboratory to see how fossils are cleaned, sorted, and studied
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Discover the newly renovated interactive displays that tell the story of Australia's wildlife evolution
Hidden Gems
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The laboratory tour offers a behind-the-scenes look most visitors skip — ask about it when you arrive
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Keep an eye out for the fossil preparation workspace where you can watch real specimens being carefully cleaned
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The centre's gift shop carries exclusive Riversleigh-themed merchandise and educational books you won't find elsewhere
What Makes it Special
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Riversleigh is a UNESCO World Heritage Area and one of the most significant fossil deposits on the planet
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The fossil laboratory tour gives you direct access to an active research facility, not just a museum display
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The newly renovated centre features cutting-edge interactive technology that makes deep-time science feel alive and engaging
Available Facilities
Perfect Timing
When to visit for the best experience
Visit during the cooler months from May to September when Mount Isa's outback weather is more comfortable for exploration. Early morning bookings are ideal for the laboratory tour as slots fill quickly, and weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends and school holiday periods.
Photography Guide
Capture the perfect shots
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The giant diorama is the most photogenic spot — use the ambient lighting to capture the prehistoric scene without flash
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The laboratory offers a unique chance to photograph real fossil specimens up close, but check with staff before taking photos
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Golden hour light outside the centre provides a stunning backdrop of the Outback landscape for exterior shots
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs and traditions
As this is both a scientific research facility and an educational attraction, please keep voices at a respectful level, especially during the theatre presentation and laboratory tour. Do not touch any fossil specimens or display equipment unless invited by a staff member, and follow all photography guidelines provided by the centre.
Special Events & Experiences
Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights
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School holiday programs feature special guided laboratory tours and hands-on fossil activities for children
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Occasional paleontology workshops and community events are held throughout the year — check with the centre for upcoming dates
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Peak visitation occurs during Queensland school holidays and the winter months (June to August) when outback weather is most pleasant
Important Guidelines & Safety
Essential safety information and guidelines
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Mount Isa experiences extreme heat — carry drinking water and wear sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing when exploring the area
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The laboratory and exhibit areas are climate-controlled, but outdoor walking paths may be uneven — wear sturdy footwear
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Always stay on designated pathways and follow staff instructions during the laboratory tour for your safety and the protection of the specimens
Visitor Information
Entry Fee
Entry fees apply with standard adult and child pricing, and concessions are available for seniors and children. Combo deals may be available when booking through HolidaySG.com — check the booking page for current offers and package pricing.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits, theatre presentation, diorama, and guided laboratory tour. If you're short on time, prioritise the laboratory tour and the giant diorama, as these are the unique highlights you won't experience anywhere else.
Accessibility
The Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre is wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible facilities throughout. The laboratory tour may have limited accessibility — please contact the centre in advance to discuss any specific needs.
Highlights
Guided Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre & Lab...
- See what the world looked like 25 million years ago
- One of the most significant fossil deposits worldwide
- Showcases fossils from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area
- Newly renovated and upgraded centre
- Tells the unique story of the evolution of Australia's wildlife
- Innovative interactive displays
Opening hours
Notes
Overview
Visit the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre in Mount Isa to discover one of the world’s richest sites of fossil deposits in Outback Queensland. The centre tells a unique story of the evolution of Australian wildlife in interactive and educational displays. Stop by to see paleontological experts tell the fascinating stories of Riversleigh in the movie theatre and wander through the giant diorama for a glimpse into life 25 million years ago. This package also includes a guided tour of the Riversleigh Fossil Laboratory for an engaging experience exploring how the fossils are cleaned, sorted and extracted from limestone. History buffs of all ages will enjoy this guided tour with entry to Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre - get your tickets here!
Inclusions
* Guided tour to find out how specimens are sorted * Big Bird Interactive Experience * Fossil Augmented Reality Experience * Virtual Dig Site Touchscreen Experience * Interactive Skulls Touchscreen Experience
Exclusions
* Transport to/from your home destination or accommodation * Meals
Highlights
* View one of the most significant fossil deposits worldwide that tells the unique story of the evolution of Australian wildlife * Learn about fossils from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area * Interact with innovative displays in the newly renovated and upgraded centre * Find out about how specimens are sorted, cleaned and how the fossils are extracted from hard limestone * Wander through an impressive diorama to see what this ancient world looked like 25 million years ago
Duration
* Tour time is 2 hours.
Cancellation Policy
* Amendments or cancellations made less than one (1) day prior to arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee
Booking Information
* Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking * Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience * Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction * Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control * For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher * We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
Important Information
Opening Hours
* Guided tours depart at 10.00am & 2.00pm (Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day, Good Friday and Boxing Day)
Select your preferred date and ticket type, then add to cart.
Complete secure payment at checkout.
Receive instant e-ticket confirmation via email.
Show your mobile or printed voucher at the venue.
Location
19 Marian St, The Gap QLD 4825, Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
About Guided Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre & Laboratory
Purchase your tickets to Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre here to unearth one of Australia’s most significant Fossil and Mammal sites. Discover the unique story of the evolution of Australian wildlife first hand touring the newly renovated centre with interactive displays, and a movie theatre presented by paleontological experts. The Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre also houses an impressive collection of fossil finds, virtual digs and a giant diorama showing you what the world looked like 25 million years ago. Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre is open 7 days a week and tickets are available online here.
The laboratory and exhibit areas are climate-controlled, but outdoor walking paths may be uneven — wear sturdy footwear
Always stay on designated pathways and follow staff instructions during the laboratory tour for your safety and the protection of the specimens
The laboratory offers a unique chance to photograph real fossil specimens up close, but check with staff before taking photos
Golden hour light outside the centre provides a stunning backdrop of the Outback landscape for exterior shots
General Questions
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