Meet a Snake | Zoo in Grantville |

Read the full experience

Maru Koala and Animal Park offers a rare hands-on opportunity to get face-to-face with one of nature's most intriguing creatures—the Python snake. This engaging experience is perfect for adventurers and animal enthusiasts eager for an up-close look at wildlife right in the heart of the region. Located in a lush setting that showcases local flora and fauna, the park features interactive sessions designed to deepen your understanding of these fascinating reptiles. As you step into the encounter, you'll learn about the snake's unique traits, natural habitats, and the vital role it plays in ecosystems. The experience blends education with excitement, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense greenery, with native plant species supporting a variety of wildlife, including several bird species and small mammals. The interaction takes place in a safe, controlled environment within the park, but the close proximity offers an authentic connection to nature. Beyond the snake encounter, the park emphasizes conservation efforts, promoting awareness around wildlife protection and sustainable practices. It's a standout destination for families, school groups, or anyone interested in the natural world. This dedicated focus on education and conservation makes Maru Koala and Animal Park not just a visitor attraction but a vital part of the regional effort to preserve local biodiversity. Whether you're snapping photos of the snake or exploring the park’s other native animal enclosures, this experience offers a memorable slice of outdoor adventure and wildlife discovery.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

30–45 minutes.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels, no strenuous activity involved.

Frequently asked questions

Is the snake encounter safe for children?

Yes, the experience is supervised by trained staff, ensuring a safe and enjoyable interaction for visitors of all ages.

Can I hold the snake?

You will have the chance to hold the snake under supervision, but safety and animal welfare are always the priority.

How long does the experience last?

The session typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, including educational talks and photos.

Do I need to bring any special gear?

Just wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera — all other equipment is provided.

Are there other animals to see?

Yes, the park features a variety of native wildlife and educational displays.

Is advance booking required?

Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot during busy periods.

Local insights

Wildlife

Kea (mountain parrot)
Fantails (small insectivorous birds)

History

The park has been dedicated to wildlife education since its establishment in the early 2000s, emphasizing native conservation.

Conservation

Maru Koala and Animal Park actively promotes awareness about local species protection and sustainable interaction practices.

About Maru Koala and Animal Park

Maru Koala and Animal Park in Grantville, Victoria, is a wildlife park offering hands-on animal encounters, keeper-led experiences, and family attractions. The park features a range of wildlife interactions including koalas, quokkas, gliders, cassowaries, pythons, shingleback and blue-tongue lizards, echidnas and dingoes. Visitors can book focused experiences such as Meet a Koala, Koala Feeding Experience, Quokka Experience (limited to four participants daily), Glider Experience, Cassowary Experience and Meet a Snake or Meet a Lizard sessions. Maru also hosts specialist activities and events: an Animal Enrichment Workshop for teenagers that includes a catered lunch and supervised creation of enrichment items; Maru Birthday Party packages with exclusive park access and mini-golf; and general admission options like Maru Entry Ticket and Maru Entry Voucher. Pirate Pete's Mini-Golf and the Homestead Bistro are on-site, and the Koala Feeding Experience includes a complimentary scone and drink at the Homestead Bistro. Keeper-led sessions take place in dedicated viewing or private areas, offering close observation of animal training and behaviour under staff supervision. The park emphasises education and conservation messaging through guided encounters with keepers. All visitor experiences are scheduled and require booking to manage animal welfare and participant numbers. Maru Koala and Animal Park serves visitors to Gippsland and wider Victoria seeking authentic Australian wildlife encounters in a controlled, keeper-supervised setting. Many experiences include photography opportunities, with the Meet a Koala offering unlimited photos during the session. The Cassowary Experience takes place in a private keeper area and can include close observation and possible hand-feeding safely.

Base locationGrantville, Victoria

Tours offered15+

Adventure tips

Maintain a respectful distanceFollow guide instructions and avoid sudden movements to ensure safety.

Wear suitable footwearClosed-toe shoes are recommended for comfort and safety during the encounter.

Bring a cameraCapture memorable moments of your wildlife experience, but avoid flash to protect the animals.

Listen to the guidePay attention to instructions and fun facts shared during the session for a richer experience.

Recommended gear

Comfortable walking shoes: Stable footwear ensures safety and comfort during your visit.
Camera or smartphone: Capture memorable moments without disturbing the animals.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen): Protect yourself during outdoor interactions on sunny days.
Light jacket or layers: Stay comfortable in cooler weather with appropriate clothing.