Kuranda Koala Gardens — Attraction in Kuranda

I have a thing for Quokka's and had to see one whilst in Cairns. The Kuranda Koala Gardens homes 4 Quokkas (from memory). The sanctuary is small, but the enclosures are quite large for the animals. But it didn't feel like a real habitat for the animals. The grounds of the enclosures must be raked and cleaned every day, which is nice; but when we saw the Potoroo sitting by its self shivering in the cold, it made me a little sad ("come on old boy, jump into my bag, I'll take you home"). We found the Quokka's 2x pairs in separate enclosures huddled together on the ground. The koalas seemed happy enough (too drunk to notice anyways) and there was a Joey with one of them and it was very cute. The Kangaroo's have little hidey spots underneath the board walk, so if you can't find them try searching there. We found one Kangaroo who was on for a pat, he eventually wedged himself between me and the fence (unsure if that was for warmth) and then tried to lick the flowers off my dress. I almost got him to climb into my bag. Coming from the Territory, we've seen so many crocodiles, so although that's the largest enclosure, it didn't feel like anything special. The wombat was elusive (probably too cold); but the turtles had nowhere to hide. The snakes were sooooo big, glad there's glass between us! And the nocturnal habitat was awesome, the bilby was "running" around like it had lost something (I hope he has since found it!?).

It's a nice set out park, but felt terribly cold and sterile compared to other habitats / parks / zoos (?) That I have visited. I left feeling sorry for the animals.

They were creating a new area whilst we were there, they had a "step back in time" setting with old woodfire ovens, harnesses, branding irons and history of the first family of the area - we found that really interesting.

Also, there is no toilet at the Gardens; you have to wait till you exit back into the...

Do not visit, it’s a waste of time, money, and mood.extremely disappointed with this experience. Booked this place with a short notice as could have a photo with koala. Didn’t expect much as I knew it would be a small garden. However, please not entry fees are similar to the other large and nice parks. Booked a photo with koala and arrived 15 minutes before the time. Even though we were at the front of the queue, when they started allowing in, the preference was to families with kids (which is okay), yet these were 90% of the visitors. When finally we were close to coming inside to koalas, another couple cut in and gave the girl working at the park tickets and she allowed them in before us. Which was ridiculous! I advised we were here first and in was unprofessional to do so, and her answer was “ it’s a busy day”, she even didn’t apologise for her oversight. When it was the time to hold a koala, it was literally 2 seconds, and they do a photo straight and even don’t check if your eyes are open. I didn’t even get the feel of koala.

To sum up: wasted time and money for long queue, photo I never want to look on again, no proper experience to hold a koala, and spoiled mood by unprofessional customer service

Please save your time and money and do NOT visit this koala...

From the moment we stepped into Kuranda Koala Gardens, it was clear that we were in for a treat. The gardens provide a serene setting that brings you face-to-face with some of Australia's most beloved animals. The koalas are the undeniable stars here, and the opportunity to see them up close, munching on eucalyptus leaves or snoozing in the crooks of trees, is genuinely heartwarming.

Not only are the koala encounters memorable, but the chance to meet and learn about wallabies, wombats, and a variety of reptiles adds to the experience. The staff are passionate about their work and the welfare of the animals, offering insightful information about each species' habits and conservation status.

The gardens are well-maintained, and the layout ensures an intimate experience, avoiding the feeling of a commercial zoo. It's an educational and engaging visit for both kids and adults, fostering a deep appreciation for Australian wildlife.

We left the gardens with a camera full of pictures, a heart full of joy, and a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation efforts. Kuranda Koala Gardens is a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace the unique charm of...