Wildlife & Animal Encounters at Maru Koala and Animal Park

Read the full experience

Nestled in the heart of Australia, Maru Koala and Animal Park offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with one of the country's most beloved creatures, the koala. Located in a carefully maintained habitat, this park provides an immersive experience into the life of these iconic marsupials. Visitors can stroll through lush eucalyptus groves, where koalas lounge peacefully amid natural foliage, a perfect setting that mimics their native environment. The park also hosts educational talks on koala conservation, highlighting their struggles amid habitat loss and climate change. This experience isn't just about snapping photos; it’s about understanding the importance of preserving Australia's unique wildlife. What makes Maru Koala and Animal Park stand out is its dedication to ethical interaction, ensuring that the animals are treated respectfully and that guests leave with a deeper appreciation of conservation efforts. The park’s knowledgeable guides facilitate intimate encounters, allowing visitors to support local wildlife initiatives while creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a family, solo traveler, or wildlife enthusiast, this site offers a safe yet intimate window into the life of Australian wildlife that is rare to find elsewhere. Beyond koalas, the park features other native species, making it a comprehensive stop for wildlife lovers. With a location accessible from major cities like Brisbane or Sydney, it’s an ideal day trip or part of a broader Australian adventure. Visitors should consider bringing their camera for the countless photo opportunities, but also prepare to listen and learn about the vital efforts to protect these enchanting creatures. The experience at Maru Koala and Animal Park guarantees both fun and enlightenment, cementing its place as a standout destination for nature lovers in Australia.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1–2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels, comfortable walking involved

Frequently asked questions

Can I hold a koala during my visit?

Yes, guided interactions allow you to hold and pet a koala, following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

Is the experience suitable for children?

Absolutely, children of all ages are welcome, and guides tailor the experience to ensure safety and engagement for young visitors.

Do I need prior booking to visit?

It’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any age restrictions?

Children under a certain age may need to be accompanied by adults, and some interactions may require adult supervision.

What are the park’s hours of operation?

The park generally operates during daylight hours; check their official website for current timings.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, tickets are required; pricing varies depending on the type of experience booked.

Local insights

Wildlife

Lories and lorikeets
Possums

History

The park was established in the early 2000s to promote conservation awareness and rehabilitate injured wildlife.

Conservation

The park actively participates in native species rescue and education programs to support Australian wildlife preservation.

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

Visit during morning hoursMorning visits often mean more active wildlife and better photo opportunities.

Bring your camera and a notebookCapture memories and jot down facts learned during the guided tour.

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothingBe prepared for outdoor walking and warm weather specific to the region.

Respect the animals and follow guide instructionsEnsures a safe and enjoyable experience for both visitors and wildlife.

Recommended gear

Camera or smartphone: Capture the memorable moments of your encounter with koalas.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen): Protect yourself from the Australian sun during outdoor visits.
Light rain jacket or umbrella: Be prepared for sudden rain showers common in outdoor environments.
Comfortable walking shoes: Ensure ease during walking through the habitat and park grounds.