Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Healesville Sanctuary, in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is world-renowned as the best place to see Australian wildlife in their natural habitat. Set in a beautiful natural environment, the Sanctuary offers a place for people and animals to reconnect with nature from creek to canopy, and plays a critical role in saving some of the world's most endangered animals. Explore the 70 acre bushland haven to experience close-up encounters with some of Australia's unique and endearing wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, birds of prey and platypus. Visitors are also free to explore the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, a working vetinary hospital treating over 1500 orphaned, ill or injured wildlife every year. The expert team shares the journey of animal rescue, rehabilitation and release with the Sanctuary's visitors. Don't miss: Spirits of the Sky: A free flight presentation featuring Australian raptors such as the Wedge Tailed Eagle, and colourful parrot species.
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from ₹2,340.28
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See what travellers are saying
- Christa K3 contributionsGreat family day outWe went with a family group from ages 12 to 74. We were able to pre-book a free wheelchair for a family member who had a recent leg operation. We saw a wonderful variety of Australian animals. Some animals like the koalas are set up to be easy to see. Some appeared when we watched long enough, especially in the nocturnal house. I couldn't spot the lyrebird, although I enjoyed a lot of the birds in the multiple giant aviaries that we went through. The younger members of the family were able to spot the platypus and also went to the "Spirits of the Sky" wild bird display. I didn't really plan in advance for the displays and zoo keeper talks, but the ones we passed were interesting, but a bit crowded with the school groups. We spent about 5 hours seeing lots of animals and had a great family day out.Visited July 2023Written 2 August 2023
- Mallo_PahanenHelsinki, Finland616 contributionsExcellent place to see animals!I was left with the impression that the welfare of the animals and the living conditions of the park have been invested in. It is a good thing. There is a lot to see in the park and there are especially a lot of koalas. Allow enough time for this experience.Visited March 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 28 October 2023
- AbbottHsuSerang, Indonesia821 contributionsOne day tripIt is another primitive and friendly safari in the protective areas. The overall surroundings and environment are maintained naturally by lots of experienced volunteers. I can tell the devoted contribution they make here. The banners and instructions are really easy to be read and understood. You can explore different kinds of zones by walking or jogging. It is a new and fresh experience for me and family since you can really see those wild creatures in a very short distance. Kids and I are impressed with the kangaroo and koala since it is our first time to see them. They are really cute and easy going by their general movements. Visitors either take photos or shoot videos while visiting those attractive creatures. My kids get lots of fun and knowledge by visiting them. The climate in this area is cloudy and cool for me and family. It is really comfortable to dive in the evergreen fields here. The air is really fresh and the water is so clean and chilly. It refreshes your body and mind while walking around the safari. There are 2 cafes inside safari. One is close to the exit and the bigger one is close to the kangaroo zone. Simple meals are available but it is crowded during lunch time always. Be patient with queue up and make sure animals won’t bother you while dining. It is a good place for kids and family to visit and the duration is around half day. Just come and visit here. Have fun.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 12 December 2023
- Sarah V45 contributionsFantastic. Must SeeSo worthwhile. Fantastic to see all the Australian animals. The environment and enclosures were beautiful and natural. Go to the (free) Keeper Talks they were interesting and often did things eg feeding so you saw the animal. The entry starts at $46 for an adult. This is a must see!Visited January 2024Travelled with familyWritten 2 January 2024
- Our Wanderings | E&JCambridge, United Kingdom87 contributionsA fun getaway outside of MelbourneWe visited the animal sanctuary as part of our day excursion to the Yarra Valley. The sanctuary is a good size and splits into 3 main areas which you can explore. There is plentiful to see and all the animals are native to Australia. We particularly liked the animal hospital where you can watch the vets perform procedures on their rescue animals. One thing to keep in mind is that there is not much cover between the trails, so keep that in mind if you’re visiting on a rainy day. There is also not too many food options so maybe consider bringing your own meal and snacks particularly if you’re in a big group as the food is a bit pricey.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 January 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,119 reviews
Excellent
1,332
Very good
536
Average
158
Poor
63
Terrible
30
Jen
Geelong, Australia1 contribution
I’m an Aussie and have been to many zoos in and around the east and south west of Australia. This one was by far the best I’ve been to. The enclosures were amazing and the animals had plenty of space. The sanctuary has gone out of its way to keep the animals and birds in enclosures close to their natural habitat. The staff are amazing and very friendly. The talks, especially the wild bird session was fantastic. We went on a day that was 31 degrees outside but there is a lot of shade and some of the nocturnal sights were air conditioned so that gave us a respite. Great for families friends and couples. We were there for over 3 hours and had a great time. Even got to see some Tasmania devils running around 😁
Written 6 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanne
Lake Mary, FL1,781 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
This is a large park with friendly staff about 1.5 hours from the cruise port. Our group had about 2.5 hours and I could have easily spent the entire day. As it was – I needed to walk very quickly to see most of the animals. You could not hold koalas, but they had wildlife encounters you could sign up for (extra money) to get up close. There was an awesome bird show in an outdoor amphitheater – they were awesome and well-trained. There are tons of koalas in their own area that are put in trees, but you can get good views of them. Some really good bird enclosures (just remember to open one door and close it before you open the next door). There is plenty of shade under trees in most places. My most exciting thing is I finally saw a platypus (their area is inside and very dark – so you have to look carefully). There are supposed to be several cafes to eat, but one by the reptile house was closed – but no signs. I ate at another café - a bit pricey, but I got a lot of very tasty (but very salty) sweet potato fries that came to about USD 4.25. I figure it goes to the upkeep and the animals. My only regret is that I just wish I had all day here.
Written 1 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our Wanderings | E&J
Cambridge, UK87 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
We visited the animal sanctuary as part of our day excursion to the Yarra Valley. The sanctuary is a good size and splits into 3 main areas which you can explore. There is plentiful to see and all the animals are native to Australia. We particularly liked the animal hospital where you can watch the vets perform procedures on their rescue animals. One thing to keep in mind is that there is not much cover between the trails, so keep that in mind if you’re visiting on a rainy day. There is also not too many food options so maybe consider bringing your own meal and snacks particularly if you’re in a big group as the food is a bit pricey.
Written 19 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Matthew Trompf
Lilydale, Australia13 contributions
Jan 2024 • Friends
I went there with Lily this morning and we enjoyed ourselves but when we wanted to feed the kangaroo the lady said you can't feed it so get lost then we walked away feeling extremely uncomfortable after she spoke rudely to us.
Written 4 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah V
Johannesburg45 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
So worthwhile. Fantastic to see all the Australian animals. The environment and enclosures were beautiful and natural. Go to the (free) Keeper Talks they were interesting and often did things eg feeding so you saw the animal. The entry starts at $46 for an adult. This is a must see!
Written 2 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AbbottHsu
Serang, Indonesia821 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
It is another primitive and friendly safari in the protective areas. The overall surroundings and environment are maintained naturally by lots of experienced volunteers. I can tell the devoted contribution they make here.
The banners and instructions are really easy to be read and understood. You can explore different kinds of zones by walking or jogging. It is a new and fresh experience for me and family since you can really see those wild creatures in a very short distance.
Kids and I are impressed with the kangaroo and koala since it is our first time to see them. They are really cute and easy going by their general movements. Visitors either take photos or shoot videos while visiting those attractive creatures. My kids get lots of fun and knowledge by visiting them.
The climate in this area is cloudy and cool for me and family. It is really comfortable to dive in the evergreen fields here. The air is really fresh and the water is so clean and chilly. It refreshes your body and mind while walking around the safari.
There are 2 cafes inside safari. One is close to the exit and the bigger one is close to the kangaroo zone. Simple meals are available but it is crowded during lunch time always. Be patient with queue up and make sure animals won’t bother you while dining.
It is a good place for kids and family to visit and the duration is around half day. Just come and visit here. Have fun.
The banners and instructions are really easy to be read and understood. You can explore different kinds of zones by walking or jogging. It is a new and fresh experience for me and family since you can really see those wild creatures in a very short distance.
Kids and I are impressed with the kangaroo and koala since it is our first time to see them. They are really cute and easy going by their general movements. Visitors either take photos or shoot videos while visiting those attractive creatures. My kids get lots of fun and knowledge by visiting them.
The climate in this area is cloudy and cool for me and family. It is really comfortable to dive in the evergreen fields here. The air is really fresh and the water is so clean and chilly. It refreshes your body and mind while walking around the safari.
There are 2 cafes inside safari. One is close to the exit and the bigger one is close to the kangaroo zone. Simple meals are available but it is crowded during lunch time always. Be patient with queue up and make sure animals won’t bother you while dining.
It is a good place for kids and family to visit and the duration is around half day. Just come and visit here. Have fun.
Written 12 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wen.rob
Loch, Australia137 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
I like Healesville Sanctuary but can see it declining as I’m a regular visitor. Signage is not very good for international guests. No signage to say if cafes open or close had to wander around looking for one that was open. Unfortunately the one at entrance open and only outside seating. I got attacked by an ibis when putting a mouthful of food into my mouth it flew up to my mouth and took out the food as it was going in. Gave me a real shock. I went straightaway to the ticket office and reported it, she wasn’t very concerned saying it happens all the time. She’d mention to management but didn’t take my details. I was with a baby so I’m just glad it got me instead of him. The ibis are on the tables with bird poop everywhere. No signage up about the birds with a warning anywhere.
Written 22 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natalia T
Singapore, Singapore2,303 contributions
Oct 2023
This is quite a nice place for kids to spend a day. You can get to see various animals like the koala, platypus, kangaroos, birds etc. There are play areas for the children, as well as dining outlets. Friendly volunteers are around to provide information.
Written 8 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mallo_Pahanen
Helsinki, Finland616 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
I was left with the impression that the welfare of the animals and the living conditions of the park have been invested in. It is a good thing.
There is a lot to see in the park and there are especially a lot of koalas. Allow enough time for this experience.
There is a lot to see in the park and there are especially a lot of koalas. Allow enough time for this experience.
Written 29 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ellie B
Wellington, New Zealand77 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We could have picked a better day weatherwise as it was raining on and off. Luckily we went to the cafe during the heaviest shower. A few babies to see when we were there. The baby emu was very cute, lovely to watch him running around and hear how it is the father that does the rearing. Mum lays the egg and that's it! There was a baby koala, we believed the guide, but really couldn't tell as Mum was not moving and the baby was inside her pouch. Baby tasmanian devils were fun, also watching the bigger ones feed. Quite amazing seeing them ripping off skin and bone. My favorite was the duck billed platypus, much smaller than I imagined, full of energy swimming around the tank. The bird show was shortened due to rain. The reptile house was warm and dry, appreciated on a rainy day.
Written 18 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonathan T
Somerville, MA2 contributions
Hi - do you have to book something special in advance to be able to touch the animals? Would love to interact with a Koala, Kangaroo or Walabee, etc. Coming in from the states so want to book well in advance if possible. My 20 month old daughter absolutely adores animals and I want this to be more than a standard trip to a city zoo.
Russ S
11 contributions
As said in the other replies there is a ticket you can buy on arrival. There are also trails amongst some of the animals. It is a great place to see native Australian animals, enjoy!
Hi everyone, I would like to know can we pat and feed kangaroos without paying for the close encounter in Healesville Sanctuary?
If the answer is no,
I would like to know which zoo is the best if my main interest is only for patting and feeding kangaroos and koalas?
Healesville? Moonlit? Maru Koala and Animal Park? Ballarat?
iGuySimpson
Melbourne, Australia128 contributions
No, I don’t think you’re allowed to pat the Roos or the Koalas at Healsville.
Are there Wombat experiences where we can touch and play with the wombats? I read online that there is this 'pat and play' experience listed but it seems to be outdated information. Would like to confirm.
tommymoir
40 contributions
Could not interact with wombats. They were in their own area.
All-of-Creation
Monroe, NC790 contributions
Can someone please describe what happens during the kangaroo Encounter? We are a family of 6, so I’m trying to determine if a 10 minute slot is worth the $80 usd that it costs. Thanks!
Russell P
Satuek, Thailand548 contributions
I am pretty sure it is where you enter the roped off area with a ranger and hand feed the kangaroos. The ranger gives a personalised talk about the animals. Personally I don’t think it is worth the additional money as you are up close to the kangaroos in their enclosures anyway. If I was to pay additional to do anything additional I would do the platypus experience . The bird show is free and is a must do. Enjoy, regards Russell
Reyna L
Singapore37 contributions
Hi, I am planning to visit in November with a big group of adults / elderly. Can anyone advise how much time should I allocate for a casual tourist visit? Thanks!
Sandra W
Sydney, Australia307 contributions
Take it gently and plan the day there. Have relaxed lunch in the cafe where those that want to can have a glass of wine. I am sure you can get assistance for those with mobility issues. Ring and chat to Healsville Sanctuary - they are very helpful.
It really is worth spending time at this Zoo and see if you could book some of the lower cost zoo experiences as I am sure your group would really love them.
Is it far to walk with an older person.
Julia G
20 contributions
It would be hard to get around, but not impossible. I am disabled, and managed to get round with my rollator
Candice B
Melbourne, Australia8 contributions
Are children admitted free during easter holidays?
Zoos-Victoria
Melbourne, Australia
Hi cbuc53,
Zoos Victoria is pleased to advise that children under 16 years of age receive free admission to Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo on Weekends, Victorian Public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays.
This excludes wild encounters (experiences), special events or any other offers.
Children 3 years and under receive FREE entry every day.
Hopefully this answers your question and we hope to see you soon!
Cheers,
The Zoos Victoria Team
Can a gopher be used on the tracks for someone who has trouble walking distances
Eddie T
Melbourne, Australia43 contributions
Definitely, I can't recall any step or very large gradients. I am sure there will be no issues just ensure the battery if fully charged to get you around the place. Cheers
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Frequently Asked Questions about Healesville Sanctuary
- Healesville Sanctuary admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost ₹ 2,335.32, while a popular guided tour starts around ₹ 2,168.98 per person.
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Healesville Sanctuary:
- Healesville Sanctuary General Entry Ticket (From ₹ 2,335.32)
- Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour from Melbourne with Healesville Sanctuary (From ₹ 14,736.01)
- Melbourne City Card (3 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From ₹ 14,958.62)
- Melbourne City Card (2 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From ₹ 11,621.98)
- Yarra Valley Balloon Flight at Sunrise (From ₹ 23,856.34)
- Hotels near Healesville Sanctuary:
- (0.32 km) Botanica Editions
- (0.49 km) Sanctuary House Resort Motel
- (2.63 km) Yarra Gables
- (1.28 km) BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park
- (1.20 km) Sanctuary Park Cottages
- Restaurants near Healesville Sanctuary:
- (0.23 km) Sanctuary Harvest Cafe
- (3.44 km) Herd Bar & Grill
- (3.43 km) Chachi Yarra Valley
- (3.40 km) Innocent Bystander
- (4.84 km) Levantine Hill
- Attractions near Healesville Sanctuary:
- (3.36 km) The Yarra Valley Touring Co
- (0.78 km) Badger Creek Blueberry Farm
- (3.36 km) Four Pillars Distillery
- (2.63 km) Yarra Valley Private Winery Tours
- (8.91 km) Winebus Winery Tours