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.
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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from AU$46.00
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4.5
2,113 reviews
Excellent
1,328
Very good
535
Average
157
Poor
63
Terrible
30
Wen.rob
Loch, Australia135 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, Singapore2,283 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 Zealand74 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.
Traveller
Melbourne, Australia15,743 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
My wife and I visited this place during our recent holiday in Healesville where we stayed at the RACV Resort for 2 nights.
Healesville Sanctuary is a zoo, specialising in native Australian animals. It has a history of breeding native animals.
The Spirits of The Sky performance at 12 noon, was the highlight of our visit. Held at the flight arena, the birds of the Sanctuary show off their skills of flight and foraging, allowing us to see the Wedge-tailed Eagle, parrots and an owl that performed magnificently.
Another highlight is the Platypus. We were able to watch it swim for several minutes, up close behind the glass screen, in its enclosure.
We spent 3 hours walking along the various paths and tracks to enjoy the beauty and displays available in this sanctuary. We were here before in the 1990's and this place has undergone many improvements since then.
We visited on a Tuesday morning, off peak season, when there were not many visitors.
Healesville Sanctuary is a zoo, specialising in native Australian animals. It has a history of breeding native animals.
The Spirits of The Sky performance at 12 noon, was the highlight of our visit. Held at the flight arena, the birds of the Sanctuary show off their skills of flight and foraging, allowing us to see the Wedge-tailed Eagle, parrots and an owl that performed magnificently.
Another highlight is the Platypus. We were able to watch it swim for several minutes, up close behind the glass screen, in its enclosure.
We spent 3 hours walking along the various paths and tracks to enjoy the beauty and displays available in this sanctuary. We were here before in the 1990's and this place has undergone many improvements since then.
We visited on a Tuesday morning, off peak season, when there were not many visitors.
Written 16 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.
Deids
Richland, WA136 contributions
The VIP experience was not different from the regular experience. Koalas were cool to see, but not particularly happy. Whole experience was ok.
Written 12 August 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.
Christa K
3 contributions
Jul. 2023
We 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.
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.
Written 2 August 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.
Manda
Echuca, Australia9 contributions
Had a lovely morning at the Sanctuary.
Saw plenty of animals some were missing / sleeping but that is to be expected!
This grounds are beautiful, clean and well maintained. The layout was easy to follow, you don’t miss anything and there are several cafe and toilet areas along the way. The bird show was impressive and a definite highlight of the day! The staff and volunteers were very friendly, always asking if you needed information or guidance. Warm fires in the outdoor seating areas to keep you warm when stopping for a break. Just be careful of the sneaky bin chickens, one stole food straight out of my hand!
Saw plenty of animals some were missing / sleeping but that is to be expected!
This grounds are beautiful, clean and well maintained. The layout was easy to follow, you don’t miss anything and there are several cafe and toilet areas along the way. The bird show was impressive and a definite highlight of the day! The staff and volunteers were very friendly, always asking if you needed information or guidance. Warm fires in the outdoor seating areas to keep you warm when stopping for a break. Just be careful of the sneaky bin chickens, one stole food straight out of my hand!
Written 3 July 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.
EireDude
Limerick, Ireland93 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
I'd been here twice before and suggested it to my friends. We were not disappointed. On a bright day - with small crowds - it was a peaceful and educational few hours with the highlights for us being 1. the bird show 2. the platypus and 3. the Tasmanian devils. My friend's two children were captivated much of the time and we 3 adults learned a lot about the indigenous wildlife.
Written 15 May 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.
Barbara M
1 contribution
Apr. 2023 • Solo
An amazing visit. Due to not seeing Australian wildlife in the wild on my trip, it was a must on my last day in Melbourne. Actually being able to see the nocturnal rodents was a orivildege, along with the Dingo, Wombat, Tasmanian Devil and of course the ‘roos and Koalas. Definitely a must do visit. Only problem is getting there you must either do an organised your or hire a car. Expensive with Uber/taxi.
Written 30 April 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, NC776 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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Claim your listingHealesville Sanctuary: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Healesville Sanctuary
- Healesville Sanctuary admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost AU$47.31, while a popular guided tour starts around AU$40.11 per person.
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Healesville Sanctuary:
- Healesville Sanctuary General Entry Ticket (From AU$47.31)
- Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour from Melbourne with Healesville Sanctuary (From AU$272.55)
- Melbourne City Card (3 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From AU$276.66)
- Melbourne City Card (2 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From AU$214.95)
- Yarra Valley Balloon Flight at Sunrise (From AU$441.22)
- Hotels near Healesville Sanctuary:
- (0.32 km) Botanica Editions
- (0.49 km) Sanctuary House Resort Motel
- (2.63 km) Yarra Gables
- (1.20 km) Sanctuary Park Cottages
- (1.28 km) BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park
- 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:
- (0.78 km) Badger Creek Blueberry Farm
- (3.36 km) The Yarra Valley Touring Co
- (2.63 km) Yarra Valley Private Winery Tours
- (3.36 km) Four Pillars Distillery
- (8.91 km) Winebus Winery Tours