Imagine stepping into a world where Tasmanian devils come alive at night, and you get the chance to help feed these intriguing creatures. For a modest $115 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours immersed in Tasmania’s unique wildlife, all within the intimate setting of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a rare glimpse into the lives of nocturnal animals, with plenty of hands-on interaction and close encounters that are hard to find anywhere else.
What we love most about this experience is the small group size, which ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd but genuinely involved in the feeding and care of the animals. Plus, the chance to assist in feeding both daytime and nighttime animals makes for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at how these creatures are cared for and rehabilitated. One slight consideration is that this tour is weather-dependent; severe rain or animal welfare concerns could lead to cancellations, so it’s best to check in advance. This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, families with older kids, and anyone eager for an authentic, hands-on encounter with Tasmania’s native species.
Key Points
- Small group size maximizes interaction and personal attention.
- Hands-on feeding experiences for a variety of animals, including Tasmanian devils.
- Focus on conservation and rehabilitation efforts behind the scenes.
- Evening schedule offers a rare look at nocturnal wildlife activity.
- Tour is wheelchair accessible and includes admission, guide, and feeding.
- Expect to pat animals under supervisor guidance—no holding, but plenty of close contact.
A Practical Look at the Bonorong Night Tour
When considering a wildlife experience on Tasmania, the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Guided Night Tour offers a compelling blend of education, interaction, and genuine animal care. At $115 per person for a 2.5-hour evening adventure, it’s a small investment for what turns out to be a big, memorable experience. The tour is designed to provide a personalized encounter with Australia’s iconic animals, focusing especially on the nocturnal creatures most visitors don’t get to see by day.
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What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour fee covers admission, the guided experience, and the feeding of nearly all animals in the sanctuary—both daytime relatives and nocturnal survivors. It’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a snack afterward. Transport isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own arrival about 15 minutes before the scheduled start. The small group size—typically limited to your booking—means more one-on-one time and less “sideshow” feel.
The Itinerary: From Day to Night
The journey begins with a chance to feed and interact with daytime animals such as kangaroos and possibly some recovering or orphaned species that find sanctuary here. Then, as night falls, the real magic unfolds. Your guide—whose enthusiasm for wildlife is clear—will lead you through the sanctuary’s darkened pathways, showing you wildly interesting and unusual animals like Eastern quolls, tawny frogmouths, and sugar gliders.
One of the highlight moments is helping your guide feed the Tasmanian devils, which are both fascinating and a little comical in their voracious eating habits. You’re not just watching but actively participating, which makes the experience both fun and meaningful. Plus, you’ll get close enough for gentle pats—under supervision—to appreciate the texture and personality of these remarkable creatures without holding them.
The Unique Appeal of Small Group and Expert Guides
Many reviews mention Johnny, the guide, as someone who clearly loves his job and cares deeply about the animals. This passion translates into a more engaging and educational experience. The small group setting means you’re not just a number but part of a team, which enhances the opportunity for questions and personal interaction.
More Great Tours NearbyRecovering and Rescued Animals
A significant aspect of Bonorong’s work is rehabilitation. Many animals you meet are injury survivors or orphans, and your participation in their feeding helps support their recovery efforts. It’s genuinely inspiring to see how much effort goes into these animals’ wellbeing, and your involvement directly contributes to their journey back into the wild.
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What to Expect and What to Wear
Prepare for comfortable shoes and warm clothing—Tasmania nights can get chilly, especially outside of summer. The experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring most visitors can enjoy it fully. Remember, you won’t be allowed to hold animals, but supervised pats are often permitted when appropriate. Be ready to follow instructions carefully—animal welfare always comes first.
The Value of the Experience
At $115, this tour offers a rich, hands-on encounter with Tasmania’s wildlife that’s hard to match in quality or intimacy. The combination of informed guides, close animal interactions, and supporting conservation work makes it a solid value for wildlife enthusiasts. The reviews reinforce this, with many travelers citing it as one of the most memorable experiences on their Tasmania trip.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits wildlife lovers, families with older children, and anyone curious about the nighttime behaviors of Australian animals. It’s especially rewarding for those who appreciate small group tours and personalized encounters. If you’re interested in conservation, or just looking for a memorable way to see animals that are rarely active during the day, this tour is an excellent choice.
The Sum Up
The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Guided Night Tour is a well-rounded, meaningful experience that combines education, conservation, and genuine animal interactions. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it stand out as a personal and immersive adventure. It’s a fantastic value for anyone eager to see Tasmania’s nocturnal wildlife up close and contribute to a good cause.
While weather can influence availability, the overall experience — especially the chance to feed and pat animals like Tasmanian devils and Eastern quolls — offers authentic insights into native wildlife that you won’t find in many other tours. Perfect for curious travelers and animal advocates, this tour promises a memorable evening immersed in Tasmania’s natural charm.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 16 are generally required to be accompanied by a paying adult. The experience is designed to be engaging but involves some supervision and adherence to instructions, making it suitable for older kids who can follow guidance.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially since the tour takes place in the evening when it can be chilly.
Can I participate in feeding the animals?
While you can help feed almost all animals and assist your guide, you won’t be able to hold the animals, only pat them under supervision when appropriate.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing most guests to enjoy the experience comfortably.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled due to severe weather or animal welfare concerns. In such cases, you will be offered an alternative encounter or a full refund.
How long in advance should I arrive?
Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow for check-in and preparation.
Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to purchase something afterward.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re a wildlife aficionado or simply eager for an unusual evening out, the Bonorong Night Tour delivers an authentic, intimate look at Tasmania’s vibrant nocturnal ecosystem—an experience you’ll remember long after the lights come back on.
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