Murray Bridge is a surprising hub for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers looking to get a close-up look at some of Australia’s most iconic animals. What makes this area stand out is the presence of Monarto Safari Park, a sprawling conservation-focused reserve that offers a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re interested in seeing lions at bedtime or feeding giraffes, Murray Bridge’s tours are designed to satisfy all kinds of animal enthusiasts. We particularly like the Lions at Bedtime experience for its behind-the-scenes access and the Keeper for a Day tour for those wanting an immersive, hands-on experience. If you’re curious about the native wildlife, the Devilish Native Experience offers a unique glimpse into endangered Australian species in a controlled setting. These tours are perfect for those who want more than just a quick zoo visit—they provide a chance to learn, contribute, and connect with wildlife in a meaningful way.
Murray Bridge’s tours are especially appealing because of their variety—ranging from full-day safaris to intimate animal encounters and behind-the-scenes keeper experiences. The region’s wildlife parks and conservation efforts make it an excellent destination for families, solo travelers, or wildlife fans eager for authentic experiences. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find options suited for different interests, budgets, and time constraints. Read on to explore each of the top tours in Murray Bridge, and discover what makes each one a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
1. Monarto Safari Park: General Admission Tickets
At number 1, the Monarto Safari Park: General Admission Tickets give you access to Australia’s largest safari experience outside Africa. For just $36 per person, this full-day ticket immerses you in a vast landscape where you’ll see animals like Giraffes, Rhinos, Meerkats, and Lions roaming on expansive plains that mimic their natural habitats. The park is designed for interactive exploration, with the Zu-loop bus providing an easy way to move from one viewing platform to another—no need to walk the entire park if you prefer a relaxed experience. Visitors rave about the daily Safari Keeper talks that provide insightful details about the animals and conservation efforts.
What makes this experience stand out is its sheer scale and the chance to observe animals in large open environments, akin to real African safaris but without the long flights. The value for money is excellent, especially considering the full-day access and interactive elements. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, family-friendly wildlife adventure and those eager to learn about animal conservation firsthand. The only potential downside is that it’s a day-long commitment, so pace yourself if you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: The general admission ticket offers a complete safari experience at a reasonable price, perfect for first-timers or families seeking a full day of animal encounters.
2. Land of the Lemurs Experience & a Day at Monarto Safari Park
At number 2, the Land of the Lemurs Experience & a Day at Monarto Safari Park is a fantastic option for those who love primates and want a quick, focused experience. For just $85 per person, this 1-hour tour lets you get within a tail’s length of a large troop of ring-tailed lemurs. You’ll go behind the scenes into their naturalistic habitat, where you can watch these lively creatures leap around your feet and through the trees. The experience includes a visit to the Tortoise Research Facility, where you’ll see some of the park’s giant tortoises and learn about their conservation.
This tour is unique because it offers an intimate, up-close encounter with lemurs—something you can’t do in regular zoo visits. The focus on conservation is evident, and the staff share detailed insights about efforts to protect these species. It’s perfect for families with kids, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a meaningful, short wildlife experience. The one-hour duration makes it a great add-on if you’re already planning to visit Monarto Safari Park for the day.
Bottom Line: If you’re a primate fan or short on time but want a memorable animal encounter, this tour offers excellent value and a personal connection with lemurs.
3. Monarto Safari Park: Cheetah Experience
Number 3 on our list is the Cheetah Experience for $106 per person. In just one hour, you’ll get up close to the world’s fastest land animal, watching as the cheetahs snack on treats and interact with each other. This behind-the-scenes tour takes you into the Cheetah Area, where you can learn about their hunting behaviors and conservation challenges. The highlight is seeing these incredible cats at eye level, offering a rare, personal glimpse into their world.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to learn about cheetah coalition groups and their unique social structure. It’s a fascinating mix of education and animal interaction, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager for a more intimate encounter. The guide’s detailed commentary makes it especially engaging. Although it’s a short tour, the insights gained make it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in big cats or predator conservation.
Bottom Line: For anyone curious about cheetahs or big cats, this tour is a focused, educational experience that offers a rare chance to see these speedy predators close up.
$106 per person
4. Giraffe Safari & a Day at Monarto Safari Park
At number 4, the Giraffe Safari & a Day at Monarto Safari Park is a 50-minute experience that offers the chance to hand-feed giraffes with carrots—their favorite treat. This tour is particularly appealing for families and animal lovers who want a more personal connection with these gentle giants. You’ll also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the giraffe enclosure, learning about their habits, diet, and conservation status.
What makes this tour special is the chance to interact directly with the world’s tallest mammals and observe their behaviors up close. Visitors often comment on the magnificent male giraffes and the memorable experience of feeding them. The price reflects the intimacy of the encounter, making it good value for those who want a more personal experience rather than just viewing animals from afar.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or anyone wanting a close-up, interactive experience with giraffes, this tour combines education with fun.
5. Monarto Safari Park: A Devilish Native Experience
Next, at number 5, the Devilish Native Experience offers an intimate look at some of Australia’s most endangered native animals. For $66, you’ll go behind the scenes into the native off-limits facility, where conservation efforts are in full swing. You’ll come face-to-face with Tasmanian Devils and other Australian fauna, learning about their struggles and how to help protect them.
This tour is unique because it provides direct access to species rarely seen outside of conservation programs. The behind-the-scenes element is especially engaging for those interested in wildlife preservation and native species. Since the experience is only an hour, it fits well into a day of exploring Monarto, especially if you want to balance native wildlife with larger safari animals.
Bottom Line: For anyone interested in Australian wildlife and conservation, this tour provides vital insights and close encounters with endangered species.
$66 per person
6. Monarto Safari Park: Keeper for a Day
At number 6, the Keeper for a Day offers a deep dive into the daily life of a wildlife keeper. For $251, you’ll spend about 6.5 hours helping staff with animal care and learning about the park’s conservation projects. This hands-on experience is ideal for those serious about wildlife or considering a career in zoology.
Participants assist with feeding, cleaning, and enrichment activities, gaining firsthand insight into the complexities of animal husbandry. The tour is tailored to those with a genuine interest in conservation, and many reviewers mention the invaluable knowledge gained. It’s a full-day commitment but offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look that few other experiences provide.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about wildlife careers or want a comprehensive look at zoo management, this immersive tour is a top choice.
$251 per person
7. Monarto Safari Park: Lions At Bedtime
Finally, the Lions at Bedtime is a captivating experience for $113 that combines animal behavior with a behind-the-scenes look. You will assist the keeper in calling the African lion pride into their night quarters and observe them settling in, followed by a chance to see the Spotted Hyena. This tour offers a rare glimpse into lions’ nocturnal routines.
What elevates this experience is the chance to go behind the scenes and see the lions’ night quarters, providing insights into their care and management. Many visitors remark on how close they feel to the pride, making it a memorable, intimate moment. The combination of animal interaction and conservation education makes it appealing to wildlife lovers who want a more in-depth look.
Bottom Line: For a unique, evening-focused experience that offers a behind-the-scenes look at lions, this tour is hard to beat.
$113 per person
How to Choose Your Murray Bridge Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you want a full-day safari adventure, the general admission ticket is ideal. For those who love primates, the Lemur Experience is quick but impactful. Wildlife enthusiasts eager for a behind-the-scenes look at big cats should consider the Cheetah Experience or Lions at Bedtime. Families with young children will enjoy the Giraffe Safari, especially the chance to feed the giraffes. Conservation-minded travelers should prioritize the Devilish Native Experience or Keeper for a Day to get involved practically.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the more immersive experiences, and always check if any tours have age or fitness restrictions. Think about how much time you want to dedicate—some tours fit into a quick afternoon, while others, like the Keeper for a Day, demand a full commitment.
Final Thoughts
Murray Bridge offers a compelling array of wildlife tours, from expansive safaris to intimate animal encounters. The Monarto Safari Park stands out as a major draw, with options suitable for every interest and energy level. If you’re traveling with kids or wildlife enthusiasts, the giraffe and lemur tours provide memorable moments, while those with a passion for conservation should not miss the native animals or keeper experiences.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot on these popular tours. With a variety of options, Murray Bridge makes it easy to turn your visit into an unforgettable wildlife adventure.