Tasmania Zoo

Tasmania Zoo, set in 900 acres of bushland just south of Launceston, is a family-run wildlife sanctuary that brings you face-to-face with the island’s most iconic animals. It’s a hands-on, intimate experience where you can hand-feed kangaroos, meet Tasmanian devils up close, and even pat a koala. The zoo’s conservation focus and natural bush setting make it a relaxed, educational outing that feels more like a wildlife encounter than a traditional zoo.

Highlights & What to See

• Tasmanian Devil Encounter – Get up close to these feisty marsupials during daily keeper talks, where you’ll learn about the zoo’s breeding program to save them from Devil Facial Tumour Disease.
• Free-Roaming Kangaroo Walk – Stroll through the large walkthrough paddock and feed friendly kangaroos and wallabies; it’s a highlight for kids and adults alike.
• Koala Patting – One of the few places in Tasmania where you can pat a koala (bookings essential, but included in entry).
• Reptile House & Nocturnal House – See pythons, goannas, and Tasmanian native quolls, plus a dark zone where you can spot bilbies and other shy creatures.
• Wildlife Hospital & Conservation Talks – Peek behind the scenes at the on-site hospital and learn about rescue and rehabilitation efforts for injured native wildlife.
• Bushwalking Trails – The zoo’s grounds include short bushwalks through dry sclerophyll forest, offering a taste of Tasmania’s wild landscape.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours here, which allows time for the main animal encounters, a relaxed walk through the kangaroo paddock, and catching at least one keeper talk. If you have kids or want to do the koala patting and a longer bushwalk, budget half a day. The zoo is open daily from 9am to 5pm, so it works well as a morning or afternoon outing from Launceston.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge – Just a 15-minute drive north, this stunning natural gorge offers walking trails, a chairlift, and a swimming basin – a perfect contrast to the zoo.
• Launceston City – Explore the city’s historic streets, artisan bakeries, and the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery.
• Tamar Valley Wine Route – Head north along the Tamar River to visit cellar doors and vineyards; many are within 20 minutes of the zoo.
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate – About 45 minutes east, this famous lavender farm is a scenic drive and a great addition between December and February.
• Ben Lomond National Park – For hiking or skiing (in winter), this alpine park is an hour’s drive east and offers dramatic dolerite peaks.

Please check official sources for current details.