Zoos and Wildlife for Families
The kids will love it
South Australia has many parks with abundant wildlife. These parks are not limited to land. There are also plenty of marine reserves, which are home to animals such as Australian sea lions, leafy sea dragons, dolphins and little penguins.
The Adelaide Zoo is home to more than 1,800 animals, including lions, lemurs and meerkat. There is a children’s zoo, where you can pet and feed the animals. Don’t forget to visit giant pandas, Wang Wang and Funi. Special tours are also available.
Wildlife parks
Cleland Wildlife Park is a short drive from the city and is your best chance to see Australian wildlife up close. Located in the Adelaide Hills, it’s 30 minutes from the city by car or coach. Walk freely amongst wildlife in the beautiful bushland setting. The kids will love hand feeding kangaroos, emus or cuddling koalas. There will be plenty of photo opportunities.
Parks and playgrounds
Belair National Park in the Adelaide Hills is an inexpensive day out for the family. Enjoy the walking, cycling and horse riding trails. Take a tennis racquet, football or cricket gear. The kids will like the playground in the middle of the park. Lunch is easy. There are barbecue facilities dotted around the park. Just take a picnic. Dogs are welcome too, so don’t leave them at home!
An island adventure
Flinders Chase National Park (on Kangaroo Island) is another great place to take the kids. They’ll like hiding behind the famous Remarkable Rocks. Sculpted by wind and time, these rocks stand on the clifftop, overlooking the sea. Nearby there are stunning beaches, some with New Zealand fur seals. Stay for a picnic, camp the night or sleep in a lighthouse. The choice is yours.
African safari
For an African safari experience, head to the open range Monarto Zoo in the Adelaide Hills. Lions, cheetahs and other animals roam free. Try the Zu-Loop Shuttle bus or wander along the walking trails. It’s easily a full day experience, so get there early.
Meet the locals
See little penguins return from a day’s fishing. The penguins arrive at dusk on Granite Island, Victor Harbor. A guided tour will put you in the best position to see them.
Kangaroo Island is an untamed wilderness, brimming with wildlife. Seal Bay Conservation Park is one of the island’s most popular attractions. Join a tour to see Australian sea lions on the beach. If you are not on a tour, you won’t be able to access the beach. You can still get a great view though by walking along the 800 metre boardwalk.
Things to do
Here are some great ideas for you to try while you’re in the area.
What's on
There are plenty of events on in South Australia. Here are some ideas you might like.
Back to top