Yarra Valley is not just about award-winning wines and vineyard views; it’s also home to some of the best wildlife parks in Australia. If you want to get up close and personal with native animals, Yarra Valley’s wildlife parks are the perfect bush escape. From gentle tracks through 20-acre bushland to interactive experiences with majestic birds, this region has something for nature lovers, families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary along Badger Creek Road. This sanctuary is more than an animal park; it’s a conservation hub dedicated to saving Australian wildlife. The sanctuary is home to a wide range of native animals, from playful kangaroos and curious koalas to the elusive platypus and the iconic Tasmanian devil.

• Birds of Prey Presentation: One of the most popular shows at Healesville Sanctuary is the Birds of Prey presentation, where you can see birds like eagles and hawks in flight. The bird presentation allows you to get up close to these powerful birds while learning about their natural hunting habits.
• Close-up Encounters: The sanctuary has various close-up encounters with native wildlife. You can feed kangaroos, pat koalas and even interact with Tasmanian devils. These exclusive experiences give you insight into the habits and habitats of Australia’s most amazing animals making it an experience for all ages.
• Australian Wildlife Health Centre: At the heart of Healesville Sanctuary is the Australian Wildlife Health Centre where you can see the conservation in action. Here orphaned animals and injured wildlife are cared for and you can see the dedication that goes into saving wildlife. It’s a moving and educational part of the sanctuary that highlights the importance of protecting Australia’s natural wonders.

Native Bushland and Wildlife Tracks

Healesville Sanctuary has tracks that wind through beautiful bushland where you can explore. These trails are home to a variety of bird species, including Australia’s colourful birds, such as parrots and kookaburras. If you love bird watching, the sanctuary is the perfect place to see native birds in their natural habitat.

• Many Tracks: The many tracks at Healesville Sanctuary are suitable for all fitness levels. You can take a leisurely walk and spot wildlife along the way or join a guided tour to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
• Bushland: The sanctuary is set among ancient trees and stunning bushland, so you get a true Aussie bush experience. Walking through the trails in the morning light is magical, with the songs of native birds filling the air and the scent of eucalyptus all around you.

Marine Life and Penguin Parade

While Healesville Sanctuary focuses on land animals, Phillip Island Nature Parks is where you can experience Australia’s marine mammals and coastal wildlife. Just a day trip from Melbourne, Phillip Island is famous for the Penguin Parade, where you can see the largest colony of little penguins as they come ashore to their nests.

• Penguin Parade: The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a showstopper. As the sun sets, you’ll see these tiny penguins pop up from the water and waddle across the beach. It’s a real Aussie icon and a must-see for anyone into wildlife.
• Phillip Island Wildlife Park: While on Phillip Island, be sure to visit Phillip Island Wildlife Park, where you can get up close to kangaroos, emus and wallabies. It’s a more intimate setting than some of the bigger zoos, so great for families with young kids.
• Marine Mammals: Phillip Island is also home to a colony of fur seals at Seal Rocks. Take a boat tour to get up close to these playful creatures and add another layer to your Aussie wildlife experience. Whether it’s the penguins or the seals, Phillip Island Nature Parks has an amazing range of wildlife encounters in a beautiful coastal setting.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

If you want to see more Australian wildlife parks beyond Yarra Valley and Phillip Island, Ballarat Wildlife Park is a great option. Located in a bush setting just outside Ballarat, this park is home to over 80 species of animals, including kangaroos, wombats, koalas, crocodiles and other reptiles.

• Tasmanian Devils: Ballarat Wildlife Park is famous for its work with Tasmanian devils, an endangered species that has been decimated by disease in the wild. Here you can learn more about the conservation efforts to save these incredible animals from extinction.
• Family Friendly: With interactive displays and animal feeding, Ballarat Wildlife Park is a great time for families. The park staff have talks throughout the day so it’s both educational and fun for visitors.

Dandenong Ranges

If you’re in Yarra Valley and looking for another natural wonder, you have to visit the Dandenong Ranges. This is famous for its wilderness and bushland walks. It is not a traditional wildlife park, but the Dandenong Ranges is home to native birds and animals that thrive in the national park environment.

• Native Birds: The Dandenong Ranges is one of the best places in Victoria for birdwatching, with many species of native birds, including cockatoos, lyrebirds and rosellas calling this place home. Walking the many tracks through the forest will give you a close up view of these beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
• Historic Gardens: While you’re in the Dandenong Ranges, be sure to visit the Alfred Nicholas Gardens, a historic garden surrounded by towering mountain ash trees. A great place to visit in the morning, with beautiful views and walking paths.

National Parks and Surrounds

Yarra Valley is surrounded by many national parks and reserves, each with its own unique wildlife experience. Some of the best are Westerfolds Park, Birrarung Park and Lysterfield Lake Park, all within 30 minutes of Yarra Valley. These parks offer a more rugged and natural environment where you can walk and spot native wildlife, kangaroos, possums and echidnas.

• Cultural Experiences: If you’re interested in Indigenous Australian culture, these parks also offer the opportunity to learn about the Aboriginal history of the land. Guided tours often include elements of Aboriginal culture, including the significance of certain animals and plants in traditional practices.
• Marine Mammals: For the ultimate wildlife experience, head further out to Apollo Bay or Gawler Ranges, where you can see dolphins and whales. These coastal areas are also great for road trips that combine wildlife and scenery, a true immersive experience.

Beyond Wildlife: Wine and Scenery

Yarra Valley is famous for its award winning wines and wine day experiences but what makes it really special is how easy it is to combine wine with nature. Spend the morning at Healesville Sanctuary or hiking in the Dandenong Ranges and then spend the afternoon wine tasting at one of the many wineries. The views of rolling hills and vineyard scenery are the icing on the cake, so your visit to Yarra Valley is both relaxing and fulfilling. Discover the beauty of Yarra Valley tours, where award-winning wines meet breathtaking nature. Spend your day hiking or visiting Healesville Sanctuary before indulging in wine tastings!

• Gourmet Food Pairings: Many of the wineries offer gourmet food pairings, which add to the experience. Whether you are in a city hotel or dining at a winery, the combination of special wines and time in nature makes Yarra Valley a great destination for any traveller.

FAQ

What animals can I see at Healesville Sanctuary?

Healesville Sanctuary has a range of Australian native animals including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils and platypus. Also birds of prey presentations featuring eagles and other native birds.

What wildlife parks are in Yarra Valley?

Healesville Sanctuary, Phillip Island Wildlife Park and Ballarat Wildlife Park are the top wildlife parks in Yarra Valley. Each has up close animal encounters and conservation programs to save wildlife from extinction.

Is the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island worth seeing?

Yes! The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s most famous wildlife experiences, where you can see the world’s smallest penguins returning to their burrows. It is a must-see if you are visiting Phillip Island.

Are the wildlife parks suitable for families?

Yes, the wildlife parks in Yarra Valley and Phillip Island are very family friendly. They have interactive animal experiences, school holiday events and opportunities for kids to learn about conservation.

When should I visit Yarra Valley’s wildlife parks?

Yarra Valley’s wildlife parks are open all year round but visiting during Victorian school holidays or public holidays will have extra events and activities. Early morning is the best time to see the animals at their most active.

Title: Yarra Valley Wildlife Parks: Up-Close Encounters with Australia’s Native Animals

Description: Discover Yarra Valley’s wildlife parks with native animals, close-up encounters, birds of prey, and conservation efforts. Perfect for families and nature lovers.