A visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is perfect if you’d like to experience Australia’s unique wildlife up close. The sanctuary is located around 12 kilometres from the centre of Brisbane, in beautiful natural surroundings by the Brisbane River. It is the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, founded in 1927.

Part of the experience is the journey there. You’ll cruise from South Bank with Koala and River Cruises on a relaxing trip along the Brisbane River, where you can enjoy views of the city skyline and the lush green suburbs. The boat trip takes around 75 minutes, during which an audio guide shares stories about the area’s history and natural environment. Onboard you’ll find toilets and a small kiosk offering drinks and light snacks, and you can choose to sit indoors or out on deck.

On arrival at Lone Pine, you’ll have three hours to explore at your own pace. Here you can see more than a hundred koalas, along with many other native Australian animals. One of the highlights is the fascinating presentations, where the keepers talk about the koalas’ lives and behaviour. You can also wander among free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies, and meet other iconic Australian species such as wombats, dingoes, reptiles and the intriguing platypus.

The atmosphere in Lone Pine is calm and easy-going, and the area is small enough for you to experience everything within half a day. There’s also a cafeteria where you can buy lunch or a refreshing drink.

Conservation plays a central role in the sanctuary’s work, and through research and education, it helps protect koalas and other Australian wildlife species.

After a few pleasant hours at Lone Pine, you sail back to Brisbane, where the scenic river journey provides a delightful end to your experience.

Starting and finishing point: Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, South Bank (see the address and time on your voucher). Please note that you are responsible for your own transport to and from the starting and finishing point.

Duration: Approx. 6 hours (including 3 hours at Lone Pine).

The price includes: River cruise with audio guide and entrance to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Note: The tour departs daily, except on 25 December.