One of the must-visit places in Brisbane is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Opened in 1927 the sanctuary is the first and largest koala sanctuary in the world.
Today the sanctuary is home to over 130 koalas as well as a myriad of other Australian animals and birds. Lone Pine is situated on the banks of the Brisbane River at Fig Tree Pocket.
In this article you will discover everything you need to know about visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary including what animals you will see, opening times, entry fees and how to get there.
What animals are there at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
Koala
Everyone loves the koala! Koalas are marsupials (like kangaroos) which means they give birth to underdeveloped babies who make their way to a pouch to complete their growth. Koala eat eucalyptus leaves and spend most of their life in trees eating and snoozing!
There are lots of koalas to see at Lone Pine including lots of babies. Koalas live longer in captivity than in the wild. In the wild koala are often killed by cars and you will see plenty of signs warning of koalas when you drive around Australia. Koala also die in bush fires and also from chlamydia which is untreatable.
Following our last visit, I learnt that koalas have 2 opposable thumbs on each hand! Very useful for climbing trees!
Try to catch the talk by staff all about koalas – it is always great to learn more!
Kangaroos
Kangaroos are another marsupial found when visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. And here you can feed them with specialised food sold in the general store at the kangaroo reserve.
They are very laid back and used to human interaction and will allow you to stroke them (such soft fur!).
The kangaroos have the run (hop) of a huge enclosure and have a rest area they can retreat to when they have had enough of humans trying to feed them!
Wombats
Wombats can be seen in the wild in Tasmania (particularly at Cradle Mountain) which is a truly amazing experience but if that is a little far to go do check them out at the Koala Sanctuary (where they do seem to sleep most of the time)
Tasmanian Devils
Only found in the wild in Tasmania these little devils have rather sharp teeth! Their jaws are so strong that they bite through bone like we would bite through cheese!
Dingo
There are dingo all over Australia but not in Tasmania (the little Tasmanian devils took that territory!) To see wild dingo apparently Fraser Island in Queensland has a large population.
Platypus
I have been lucky to see these little creatures in the wild at Broken River in Eungella National Park but they are elusive so Lone Pine offers an opportunity to see these egg-laying mammals up close.
Echidnas
An echidna’s tongue can extend up to 18 cm from the snout and is used to catch and eat ants and termites. Echidnas are another egg laying mammal found in Australia.
Echidna’s can be seen in the wild in a number of states including Queensland.
Reptiles
As well as the numerous lizards you can find wandering along the paths at Lone Pine there are a number of venomous snakes, crocodiles and turtles in the sanctuary.
What’s on at Lone Pine?
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has lots of native Australian animals in its care. Learn about the animals during your visit by attending some of the talks or shows that are held throughout the day.
Pick up a schedule for the day when you purchase your tickets. I would recommend getting seats as early as possible for the talks as they do get very busy.
Raptor Show
There is a raptor show on every day and it is an absolutely amazing experience witnessing some of the beautiful Australian raptors displaying their skills. The speed at which they can dive to catch their prey is quite incredible.
Birds you will see include the peregrine falcon, barn owl, kite.
FAQs – Plan your trip to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Where is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and how do I get there?
The sanctuary is located at 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket about 12 km from Brisbane city.
By car – There is lots of free parking at the sanctuary.
By bus –
- Bus number 430 from Platform 2C, Queen Street Station
- Bus number 445 from Stop 40, Adelaide Street
By boat-
See below for available tours by boat
- What days is the sanctuary open?
The sanctuary is open every day even public holidays – we went on Christmas day!
How much is entry to Lone Pine?
- Adult $42
- Child 3-13 $25
- Student $25
- Family 2 adults 3 children $88
- Family 1 adult 3 children $65
- Senior $25
If you are planning to visit more than once a yearly pass may be more cost-effective at $185 for a family of 2 adults plus 3 children, $145 for a family of 1 adult and 3 children, $70 an adult, $50 for a student aged 14-17 years), $50 for a child aged 3-13 and $50 for pensioners)
(Prices correct 1/1/21)
Yearly membership comes with added benefits such as 20% off food and beverages and other great benefits
Recommended tours to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If you prefer to take a tour to the sanctuary there are a few on offer which combines a river cruise or sightseeing tour along with entry from Get Your Guide.
Enjoy a fun 40-minute boat ride to the oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary in the world: Lone Pine. Zoom along the Brisbane River, through the city’s most historic landscapes, iconic attractions and more. Explore the sanctuary at your own leisure.
The Koala and River Cruise takes you on a memorable journey to the oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary in the world. This popular excursion has been taking visitors to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for over 60 years and is a must-do activity in Brisbane.
- Brisbane: City Highlights Tour The perfect introduction to Brisbane. This walking tour showcases the highlights of Queensland’s capital city. Visit famous iconic landmarks and take in spectacular views on this half-day tour.
Can I buy food and drink when visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
There are cafés in the sanctuary where you can purchase food/drink etc.
Is Wi-Fi available?
There is free Wi-Fi everywhere in the sanctuary.
How do I know what is on when visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
Pick up a guide to the sanctuary for $1 on entry as this gives you a map to the park as well as a daily schedule for shows and talks.
