Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary

Just a short drive from Launceston, the Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary offers an intimate and educational encounter with one of Australia’s most iconic—and endangered—marsupials. Set in bushland, the sanctuary is dedicated to conservation, rehabilitation, and research, giving travellers a rare chance to see Tasmanian devils up close while learning about the devastating facial tumour disease threatening their survival. The experience is both heartwarming and sobering, with knowledgeable keepers sharing insights into the devils’ behaviour, ecology, and the sanctuary’s vital breeding programs.

Highlights & What to See

• Up-close devil encounters: Watch feeding sessions where these feisty creatures reveal their powerful jaws and surprisingly vocal personalities.
• Nocturnal house: See devils and other Tasmanian wildlife in a dimly lit habitat that mimics their natural night-time activity.
• Conservation talk: Join a keeper presentation to hear about the Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) and what’s being done to save the species.
• Devil’s Den: A dedicated viewing area where you can observe devils interacting in a naturalistic enclosure.
• Wildlife hospital viewing window: Peek into the treatment area (when in use) to see conservation work in action.
• Bushwalking trails: Short walks through the sanctuary’s bushland offer a chance to spot other native birds and animals.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend around one to two hours, which allows time to watch a feeding session, attend a keeper talk, and explore the sanctuary grounds. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or keen photographer, budgeting two to three hours will give you a more relaxed experience. The sanctuary is compact, so you can easily combine it with other Launceston attractions in a half-day itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge: A spectacular natural gorge with walking trails, a chairlift, and a swimming basin—just a 15-minute drive from the sanctuary.
• Launceston city centre: Explore the city’s historic buildings, artisan food scene, and the nearby City Park with its free monkey enclosure.
• Tamar Valley wine region: Sample cool-climate wines at cellar doors along the Tamar River, less than 30 minutes away.
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate: One of the world’s largest lavender farms, about an hour’s drive north, best visited in December–January.
• Ben Lomond National Park: Drive up to the alpine plateau for hiking or skiing (in season), around 1.5 hours from the sanctuary.

Please check official sources for current details.