Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Afternoon Tour from Hobart

Discover Tasmania’s Wildlife and Historic Richmond on a Guided Afternoon Tour from Hobart

If you’re visiting Hobart and want to experience a slice of Tasmania’s unique wildlife alongside a charming historic town, this Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Afternoon Tour is a solid choice. For around $81, you get roughly four hours of sightseeing, with a comfortable pickup from select hotels, guided commentary, and plenty of opportunities for up-close animal encounters and cultural exploration.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see iconic native animals like Tasmanian devils and koalas in a friendly sanctuary environment, combined with the leisurely exploration of Richmond, a town brimming with history and quaint shops. The guided commentary enriches the experience, giving context to what you’re seeing—especially at Bonorong, where volunteers and staff do important work rehabilitating wildlife.

A possible downside is the limited time at Richmond—an hour can feel a bit rushed if you love wandering through historic streets and browsing shops. Also, if you’re especially eager to see koalas, you might find Bonorong’s offerings somewhat limited, as some reviews mention the absence of koalas on certain days.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife and history, particularly those who enjoy informal, small-group experiences and are willing to keep a flexible mindset about what wildlife they might see. It’s also ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone curious about Tasmania’s natural environment but short on time.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of kangaroos, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils.
• Historical Richmond: Visit Australia’s oldest Catholic church, jail, and bridge.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations.
• Guide Expertise: Knowledgeable guides like Phil enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexibility: Free time at Richmond allows personal exploration.
• Value for Money: Includes entry to Bonorong and a guided tour for the price.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Are you ready to meet some of Tasmania’s most famous animals and walk through a town that feels like stepping back in time? This 4-hour, 15-minute tour is designed to give you a taste of both nature and history, with plenty of personal touches to make it memorable.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at the Mona Brooke Ferry Terminal in Hobart, where you board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. For travelers staying at select hotels, pickup is arranged, easing the logistical stress of navigating Hobart’s busy streets. Expect a small to medium group—most tours cap at 48 people—which means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide.

The ride itself is part of the fun—your guide, possibly someone like Phil, will share local stories or wildlife facts, setting a lively, informative tone for the day. The drive to Richmond is short but scenic, giving you a first glimpse of the Tasmanian landscape.

Richmond: Australia’s Oldest Town

Once in Richmond, you’re free to explore at your own pace. With about an hour to walk around, you can check out the oldest Catholic church in Australia, the historic jail, and Richmond Bridge, which dates back to 1823. These sites are quite compact, but rich in history—so take your time to admire the architecture and snap some photos.

Reviews mention that Richmond is quite charming, with plenty of antique shops and cafes. However, some visitors like Kathy found the town a bit over-hyped, feeling the time allocated was insufficient to truly soak it in. If you’re a history buff or love browsing vintage shops, you’ll appreciate the brief but sweet visit, but if you prefer a more leisurely stroll, you might want to plan additional time on your own.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Close Encounters with Australian Animals

After Richmond, it’s time for the main wildlife highlight. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a volunteer-run rescue center that rehabilitates injured animals and educates visitors about native species. You’ll receive free food pellets—an invitation you won’t want to miss—to feed the kangaroos and wallabies, which are often eager and friendly.

The sanctuary offers the chance to see koalas (though, as some reviews note, koalas aren’t always available on every day), and watch the Tasmanian devils being fed—an experience that many find both fascinating and a little humbling. Guides lead you through enclosures, explaining each animal’s story and conservation status, which adds depth to the visit.

One reviewer, Mick, expressed admiration for the staff’s efforts: “People do a fantastic job, no help from government keeping animals alive and back into wild.” Such comments underscore the value of supporting this kind of wildlife rescue.

The Experience and Timing

The hour at Bonorong flies by quickly, especially with engaging guides pointing out details and answering questions. It’s worth noting that the sanctuary’s terrain isn’t fully paved, so comfortable shoes are recommended for wandering about.

While the sanctuary hosts numerous animals, some visitors, like Kathy, feel that more time at Bonorong would be beneficial—feeding the kangaroos and observing other creatures like wombats can be quite a highlight. On the flip side, others appreciate the efficient schedule that packs in both wildlife and town in one afternoon.

Returning and Practicalities

The tour concludes back at the Mona Brooke Ferry Terminal around 5:15 pm, giving you time to relax or explore Hobart further. The cost includes entry to the sanctuary, with hotel pickup and drop-off as optional extras. Meals and drinks are not included, so consider packing a snack if you’re hungry after the wildlife walk.

The tour’s price is quite reasonable given the inclusions and the guided experience—especially when you factor in the value of seeing Tasmanian animals up close and exploring a historic town without the hassle of organizing transport yourself.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This tour is perfect for animal lovers who want to see iconic Australian wildlife in a caring environment. It’s also a good pick for those interested in Tasmanian history and enjoying a leisurely stroll through a picturesque town. The guided commentary and small group size make it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s nature and heritage, this tour offers a convenient, engaging option. On the other hand, if you’re particularly keen on venturing further into the wildlife or the town, you might want to extend your exploration afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Tour from Hobart offers a compelling mix of native animal encounters and historic charm. With knowledgeable guides, a friendly sanctuary experience, and free time to explore Richmond’s streets, it provides good value for a half-day adventure.

While the limited time at Richmond might leave some craving more, the small-group nature of the tour ensures a personal feel. It’s particularly suited for those who want straightforward, authentic experiences without complicated logistics—and who are happy with a reunion with Tasmania’s wildlife.

In the end, this tour is a manageable, enjoyable way to connect with Tasmania’s natural environment and quaint history, making it a worthwhile addition to your Hobart itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from select Hobart hotels, making transportation easy and stress-free.

How long are the stops at Richmond and Bonorong?
You get about an hour in Richmond, which includes exploring historic sites and shops. The visit to Bonorong lasts about an hour, allowing time to feed the animals and see the wildlife.

Are all animals visible on the day of my visit?
While Bonorong give you close encounters with many native species, some animals like koalas might not always be available, depending on the day and weather.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since the sanctuary isn’t fully paved. Dress for weather, as most of the wildlife interactions are outdoors.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to bring a snack or plan to eat in Richmond after your visit.

How many people are in each group?
Most tours cap at 48 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience with your guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Just remember that late cancellations won’t be refunded.

In choosing this tour, you’re opting for a practical, engaging, and reasonably priced way to see Tasmania’s wildlife and a historic town—an experience that’s both fun and educational, suited for travelers eager to connect with the local environment and heritage.