Wondering if Australia Zoo is worth the trip? This detailed review covers everything you need to know before you go.
Is Australia Zoo worth visiting?
A visit to Australia Zoo is a must-do when you’re on the Sunshine Coast. Not only is it an iconic attraction in the region, but it also provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about some of Australia’s most fascinating wildlife. From furry koalas to fierce crocodiles, the zoo boasts an impressive range of animals that you can get up close and personal with.
What activities does the Australia Zoo offer?
From the iconic Crocoseum to animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, there are plenty of things to do at the Australia Zoo. Here are just a few of the activities and experiences that you should definitely check out!
- Crocoseum
One of the most popular attractions at the zoo is the Crocoseum, where you can witness the famous Wildlife Warriors show. This heart-pumping show features an array of animals, including crocodiles, birds, and big cats, showcasing their natural behaviours and highlighting the important conservation work being done at the zoo.
- Animal Encounters
For a more immersive experience, the zoo offers a variety of animal encounters, where you can get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s residents. From feeding the elephants to cuddling a koala or hand-feeding kangaroos, these encounters are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with some of Australia’s most iconic animals.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours
If you want to learn more about how the zoo operates and see how the animals are cared for, consider taking a behind-the-scenes tour. These tours offer a unique look at the inner workings of the zoo, including the animal hospital and the training facilities for the big cats.
- Zookeeper Talks and Demonstrations
Throughout the day, the zoo offers a variety of talks and demonstrations where you can learn more about the animals and their behaviors. From watching the big cats at play to learning about the conservation efforts to protect Tasmanian devils, these talks are both informative and entertaining.
Do you need a whole day for Australia Zoo?
While a whole day at Australia Zoo isn’t strictly necessary, it’s certainly a good idea if you want to experience everything the zoo has to offer. Ultimately, whether you need a whole day for Australia Zoo depends on your individual interests and priorities. If you’re a casual visitor who just wants to see a few animals and catch a show or two, a half-day may be sufficient. However, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast who wants to see everything the zoo has to offer, you may want to plan for a full day.
What day is best to go to Australia Zoo?
It’s worth noting that Australia Zoo is open every day of the year, except for the Christmas Day. This means you have plenty of options when it comes to planning your visit. Generally, weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during school holidays and peak tourist season. If you have the flexibility to visit on a weekday, you might be able to avoid some of the crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
How far is Sunshine Coast Airport to Australia Zoo?
If you’re planning a trip to Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get there. The Sunshine Coast Airport is located in Marcoola, about 30km south of Australia Zoo in Beerwah. Depending on traffic, the drive from the airport to the zoo typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
How to get to the Australia Zoo from Brisbane?
If you’re driving, the most straightforward route to Australia Zoo is via the Bruce Highway, heading north from Brisbane. The drive typically takes around an hour and a half, depending on traffic of course. Once you reach the Steve Irwin Way exit, it’s just a short drive to the zoo entrance.
Don’t have a car? No worries! You can take public transportation instead. The most convenient option is to catch a train from Brisbane’s Central Station to Beerwah, the closest train station to Australia Zoo. The journey takes around an hour and a half and trains run regularly throughout the day.
If you prefer a more guided experience, there are also tour companies that offer day trips from Brisbane to Australia Zoo. These tours typically include transportation to and from the zoo, as well as admission and sometimes even extra experiences such as animal encounters or guided tours.
Is there a shuttle bus at Australia Zoo?
The shuttle bus runs on a continuous loop throughout the day, making stops at various locations within the zoo. This means you can hop on and off the bus as you please and explore the park at your own pace. The shuttle bus is also a great option for visitors who may have difficulty walking long distances or have mobility issues.
One of the best things about the Australia Zoo shuttle bus is that it’s completely free! That’s right, you don’t need to pay anything extra to use the service. Simply hop on and off at your leisure.