Cleland Wildlife Park

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, Cleland Wildlife Park offers an intimate encounter with Australia's unique wildlife in a natural bushland setting. Just a 20-minute drive from Adelaide's city center, this sanctuary lets you hand-feed kangaroos, pose with a koala, and wander among free-ranging emus and wallabies. It's a must-visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic Australian experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Koala Encounters: Get up close to these iconic marsupials during a koala holding experience (book ahead) or watch them snooze in the eucalypts.
• Kangaroo Walkabout: Stroll through the open enclosure where friendly kangaroos and wallabies hop freely – buy a bag of feed and they'll come right to you.
• Nocturnal House: Step into the dimly lit space to spot bilbies, bettongs, and other shy creatures of the night.
• Dingo Discovery: Learn about Australia's wild dogs and see them up close during keeper talks.
• Birds of Prey Display: Watch eagles, falcons, and owls swoop overhead in daily flight shows (check times on arrival).
• Reptile and Amphibian House: Meet snakes, lizards, and frogs, including the iconic thorny devil.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the park, which allows time for a leisurely walk through the main enclosures, attending a keeper talk, and enjoying a picnic among the gum trees. If you want to do the koala hold and catch all the daily presentations, plan for a half-day visit. The park is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Lofty Summit: Just 5 minutes' drive, offering panoramic views over Adelaide and the coast – great for a photo stop.
• Adelaide Hills Wine Region: Explore cellar doors in Hahndorf (15 mins away) or the boutique vineyards of Piccadilly Valley.
• Hahndorf: Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, with artisan shops, bakeries, and pubs – perfect for lunch after your wildlife visit.
• Belair National Park: A bushwalking haven with trails, picnic spots, and a historic railway station – 15 minutes south.
• Adelaide City: Combine with a day in the city, visiting the Central Market, Art Gallery of South Australia, and North Terrace cultural precinct.

Please check official sources for current details.