Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Tasmania’s most popular wildlife parks and is located just 30 minutes from Hobart. It’s not just a sanctuary – it’s a place where injured and orphaned native animals are rescued, rehabilitated, and released when possible. Bonorong is run with a strong focus on animal welfare and conservation, and it offers a unique opportunity to get close to Australia’s most famous and rare wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, wombats, koalas, and many more.
The sanctuary is ideal for families, animal lovers, and those wanting to learn more about Tasmania's unique native species. Visitors can enjoy a hands-on experience, learn from passionate wildlife keepers, and even feed free-roaming kangaroos. The sanctuary also works as a hospital for injured wildlife, supported by community donations and entry fees.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Brighton, about 26 kilometers north of Hobart. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by car, which takes around 30–35 minutes from Hobart’s city center. The drive is simple and scenic, following the Midland Highway (A1) and then turning onto Brighton Road.
If you don’t have access to a car, there are also several tour companies that include Bonorong as part of their itinerary. Some public transport options are available, but they may not be direct, and you may need to combine a train or bus with a taxi to reach the sanctuary.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary experiences the same temperate climate as the Hobart region. Summers (December to February) are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures between 17°C to 24°C. Winter months (June to August) are cooler, averaging between 5°C to 12°C. Spring and autumn are beautiful seasons to visit with fewer crowds and mild weather.
Since much of the sanctuary is outdoors, it’s best to dress in layers and bring sun protection during summer and a rain jacket or warm clothes during the cooler seasons.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is open every day of the year, including public holidays. The standard opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The last admission is typically around 4:00 PM, so it's a good idea to arrive earlier to make the most of your visit.
Special night tours and private experiences are available outside regular hours but require prior booking. These tours allow visitors to see nocturnal animals and learn more about the sanctuary’s rescue efforts.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for being one of the leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers in Tasmania. It is well-known for its work with the endangered Tasmanian devil and its large population of free-roaming kangaroos that visitors can hand-feed.
The sanctuary is also famous for offering up-close and personal wildlife experiences that are ethical and educational. Visitors can meet wombats, echidnas, tawny frogmouths, and many more animals, all under the guidance of expert wildlife keepers.
Its strong focus on conservation, wildlife rescue, and community education has made it a standout attraction in the Hobart area.
Entry to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is ticketed, with all proceeds supporting the sanctuary's operations and animal care programs. General admission costs approximately:
Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online through their official website. Guided tours are included in the entry fee and run several times a day. Visitors are free to explore the sanctuary at their own pace as well.
There is also a gift shop and café on-site for snacks and souvenirs. Parking is free and available directly outside the sanctuary.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1981 and started as a small park to showcase Tasmania’s native animals. Over time, it grew into a full-scale sanctuary with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release wildlife across the state.
The sanctuary doesn’t feature grand historical buildings or colonial architecture, but its structures are functional and eco-friendly, blending naturally with the surroundings. Its most valuable feature is its purpose-built animal hospital and the natural enclosures designed to mimic the animals’ native environments.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers a heartwarming, educational, and unforgettable experience just outside of Hobart. It’s not only a place to see animals up close but also to learn about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting Australia's unique wildlife. A visit here supports a great cause and leaves visitors with lasting memories of connecting with nature and animals in a respectful and caring environment.