Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Sydney with our guide to the best places to see Koalas. From the bustling heart of the city to serene wildlife parks, Sydney offers a myriad of locations to witness these iconic Australian creatures. Explore the immersive Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, experience the unique koala encounters at Taronga Zoo, or venture out to the tranquil Blackbutt Reserve. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the charm of these cuddly koalas in Sydney is sure to leave you in awe. So, grab your camera and get ready to be mesmerized by the captivating world of koalas in Sydney.
Best Places to See Koalas in Sydney at a Glance
Our list of best places to see koalas in Sydney goes like this:
- Best place for a hands-on wildlife experience: Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park
- Best place for koala encounters with a harbor view: Taronga Zoo Sydney
- Best place for an immersive koala experience: Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park
- Best place for a variety of Australian animals: Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
- Best place for a koala sanctuary experience: Koala Park Sanctuary
- Best place for a koala feeding talk: Blackbutt Reserve
1. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is a must-visit for koala enthusiasts. Located in Doonside, Sydney, this park is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Australian fauna, including the adorable koalas. The park offers a hands-on wildlife experience, allowing you to get up close and personal with these furry Aussie icons.
Featherdale Wildlife Park is approximately 40 km from Sydney’s CBD, making it a convenient day trip for city dwellers and tourists alike. The park offers a variety of ticket options, including family packages, making it an affordable adventure for everyone.
- Address: 217 Kildare Rd, Doonside NSW 2767, Australia
- Fare: Adult $34.00, Child (3-15 years) $19.00, Student/Concession $29.00, Senior $29.00, Family packages available
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GqcukbA7PLDaWYfk8
2. Taronga Zoo Sydney
Taronga Zoo Sydney is another fantastic location to see koalas in their natural habitat. Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the zoo is just a 12-minute ferry ride from the Sydney CBD. The zoo offers a unique koala encounter experience where you can learn more about these amazing animals and the threats they face in the wild.
The koala encounter costs $12.50 per person, with zoo entry additional. The encounter includes a dedicated knowledgeable keeper who will ensure the koalas still get their 20 hours of sleep a day.
- Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia
- Fare: Koala encounter $12.50 per person, Zoo entry additional
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1GwmStTRp8qTgVC88
3. Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park
Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park offers an immersive experience where you can see koalas and other Australian wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is situated less than an hour’s drive north of Sydney, making it a convenient location for a day trip.
The park offers a variety of experiences, including ranger-led activities and the opportunity to hire your own ranger for a more personalized experience. The park is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, with ranger-led activities included in the entry fee.
- Address: 1 Darkinjung Rd, Calga NSW 2250, Australia
- Fare: Adult $33.00, Child $22.00, Family discounts available
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ris7bHr1fcqchfg97
4. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, formerly known as Hunter Valley Zoo, is located in Nulkaba, New South Wales. The park features a wide variety of Australian and exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles.
The park offers an amazing animal encounter experience where you can get up close and personal with your favorite little friends. The park also has a variety of facilities including free parking, picnic areas with free gas BBQ’s, disabled access, amenities, snack shop & gift shop.
- Address: 138 Lomas Ln, Nulkaba NSW 2325, Australia
- Fare: Adults – $42.00, Children – $28.00 (3 – 15 years), Children 2 and under are FREE, Family packages available
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/g2PgJPDBisuYtV4J6
5. Wildlife Sydney Zoo
Wildlife Sydney Zoo is a unique city zoo located right in the heart of Sydney. The zoo offers an unforgettable experience where you can meet and take a photo with a koala, one of Australia’s most iconic animals.
The zoo is home to a variety of Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a large variety of birds. The zoo’s koala exhibit is a highlight, offering visitors the chance to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their conservation.
- Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW 2000
- Fare: Adult $44.00, Child (3-15 years) $31.00, Family packages available
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VtgaTipw8xWZKQ2a8
6. Koala Park Sanctuary
Koala Park Sanctuary is a small, privately owned wildlife park located in West Pennant Hills, Sydney. The park was created in the 1920s as a safe haven for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas, and it continues to play a vital role in koala conservation today.
The park offers a unique opportunity to see koalas up close and learn more about their behavior, diet, and conservation. The park also offers a variety of other Australian animals, including kangaroos, wombats, and a variety of bird species.
- Address: 84 Castle Hill Rd, West Pennant Hills, NSW 2125
- Fare: Adult $27.00, Child (3-15 years) $15.00, Family packages available
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gAWZPPw4ArJPh27k9
7. Blackbutt Reserve
Blackbutt Reserve is a nature reserve located in Newcastle, a city north of Sydney. The reserve offers a variety of wildlife exhibits and recreational facilities. The koala exhibit is a highlight, offering visitors the chance to see these iconic Australian animals up close.
The reserve does not offer koala encounters, but there is a koala feeding talk at 2 pm every day. The reserve is a great place to learn more about koalas and their conservation.
- Address: Carnley Ave, Kotara NSW 2289, Australia
- Fare: Free entry, parking fees apply
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wHXKkTgMG2PbVYGVA
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit koalas in Sydney?
Koalas can be seen year-round at the various wildlife parks and zoos in Sydney. However, visiting during the cooler months (April to September) may provide a more active experience, as koalas tend to be more active during this time.
Can I hold or cuddle a koala in Sydney?
In New South Wales, it is not permitted to hold or cuddle koalas. However, you can still get up close and personal with koalas at various locations, such as Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park and Taronga Zoo Sydney, where you can pat a koala and take photos with them.
Are there any places to see koalas in the wild near Sydney?
While it is more challenging to spot koalas in the wild near Sydney, there are a few locations where you might have a chance, such as Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, and Tucki Tucki Nature Reserve. Keep in mind that sightings are not guaranteed, and the best time to spot them is usually early morning or around dusk.
How can I support koala conservation efforts in Sydney?
Visiting wildlife parks and zoos that focus on koala conservation, such as Taronga Zoo Sydney and Koala Park Sanctuary, can help support their efforts. Additionally, you can donate to organizations like the Australian Koala Foundation or participate in local conservation projects.
