Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Just a 30-minute drive from Hobart, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for anyone wanting to get up close with Tasmania’s unique wildlife in an ethical, hands-on setting. This family-run sanctuary focuses on rescue and rehabilitation, so you’re supporting conservation while meeting kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and more. The friendly keepers give passionate talks throughout the day, and the ‘free-roaming’ areas let you hand-feed the resident kangaroos and wallabies. It’s an intimate, no-fuss experience that feels a world away from a typical zoo.

Highlights & What to See

• Hand-feed the kangaroos and wallabies – grab a bag of feed and wander into the grassy enclosures where these gentle marsupials will hop right up to you.
• Meet the Tasmanian devils – the sanctuary runs several daily ‘Devil Talks’ where you can learn about these feisty, endangered creatures and watch them being fed.
• Nocturnal House – step into the dimly lit building to spot shy echidnas, sugar gliders, and the critically endangered eastern quoll after dark (the house is dark during the day too, so your eyes adjust).
• Wombat encounters – you can book a close-up ‘Wombat Encounter’ (extra fee) to pat these adorable, sturdy marsupials and hear their stories.
• Free-roaming bird aviary – colourful parrots and rosellas might land on your shoulder; keepers are on hand to tell you about each species.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1.5–2 hours at the sanctuary, which is enough to catch the main keeper talks, feed the kangaroos, and explore the nocturnal house. If you book a special encounter (wombat or devil feeding), allow an extra 30 minutes. The sanctuary is compact, so you can easily combine it with a half-day trip from Hobart or a stop on your way to Port Arthur.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Richmond – Tasmania’s best-preserved Georgian village, with a historic bridge, sandstone cottages, and excellent cafes, just 10 minutes’ drive away.
• Mount Wellington (kunanyi) – for panoramic views of Hobart and the Derwent River, a 40-minute drive from Bonorong.
• Hobart city – explore Salamanca Market (Saturdays), MONA, and the waterfront, all within 30 minutes.
• Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur – a scenic 1.5-hour drive south, perfect for a day trip combining convict history and dramatic coastline.
• Huon Valley – known for apple orchards, wineries, and the Tahune AirWalk, about 50 minutes southwest.

Please check official sources for current details.