Zoo · Gold Coast, Queensland
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Sanctuary of Australian animals opened in 1947, with rainbow lorikeet feedings, koalas, kangaroos, shows and a wildlife hospital.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary began in 1947, when beekeeper Alex Griffiths started feeding the rainbow lorikeets that were attacking the flowers on his property. The habit turned into an attraction, and the place became one of the best-known Australian wildlife sanctuaries in the country, listed as a Queensland heritage site.
The rainbow lorikeet feeding, colorful birds that arrive in flocks and land on visitors’ arms, remains the most famous moment. Along the paths you can see koalas, kangaroos roaming freely in their own area, wombats, dingoes, crocodiles and many birds, as well as a large tropical rainforest aviary.
Throughout the day there are bird-of-prey and reptile presentations, and a little train has run through the park since the 1960s. The sanctuary has a wildlife hospital that receives injured animals from the region and can be seen through viewing windows.
Some activities, such as photos with koalas and treetop/adventure circuits, are paid extras.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day; with shows and extras, a full day.
Best time
In the morning, when the animals are more active and it’s cooler. Check the day map for the feeding times of the lorikeets and the show schedules.
How to get there
By G:link tram to Broadbeach and bus along the Gold Coast Highway to Currumbin; the sanctuary is near Currumbin Beach.
Tip
Arrive for the lorikeet feeding and wear clothes that can get dirty: the birds land on arms and heads.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
What is the lorikeet feeding at Currumbin?
It is when flocks of rainbow lorikeets, very colourful native birds, come to feed on nectar and perch on visitors. It happens at scheduled times.
Can you hold a koala at Currumbin?
In Queensland koala-holding photos are permitted at licensed facilities such as Currumbin and are charged separately. Check the rules on the day.
Is Currumbin good for children?
Yes. It has free-roaming animals, a little train, shows and a playground.
