Are There Koalas Near Cairns?
The koala is one of the most famous, beloved, and easily-recognizable Australian animals. Like kangaroos or wombats, travelers in Australia dream of spotting one of these iconic creatures in the wild during their adventures Down Under. But are there koalas near Cairns? Let's explore the topic of koalas in Cairns so you know where to go when searching for these fuzzy, sleepy marsupials.
Are There Koalas Near Cairns?
Are there koalas near Cairns? Yes, you can see koalas at various wildlife parks and sanctuaries around the city. However, koalas do not live in the wild around Cairns. Studies show that they used to in ancient times, but the farthest north in Queensland where koalas naturally live in the wild is Magnetic Island. Any further north than that, the climate and tree population become too tropical, which does not support the diet or lifestyle of koalas.
Koalas feed on Eucalyptus leaves, and they are some of the only animals that do so! Eucalyptus leaves are toxic to many creatures, but koalas have a unique anatomy that can break down the toxins and create energy and nutrition out of the leaves. Eucalyptus trees become less common as you head further north towards Cairns and the Wet Tropics Area of Queensland, so you won't find any koalas in the wild.
That being said, koalas are notoriously hard to spot in the wild anyway! They live up high in trees, sleep for 20 hours a day, and have grey/brown fur that blends in with the forest. It's very difficult to find koalas in the wild, so your best bet for seeing a koala in Australia is to visit a wildlife park or sanctuary. Luckily there are a few of those near Cairns where you can see koalas!
Where Can I See Koalas Near Cairns and Port Douglas?
If you are determined to see a koala during your visit to Cairns, there are some excellent local parks and sanctuaries that house these unique animals. All of these places focus on conservation and education, so know that all the koalas around Cairns are well cared for. Koalas are an endangered species, mainly due to loss of habitat from urban development and natural disasters. It's important to protect this special creature from extinction, and many organizations around Australia are trying to do so! Here are the top places to see koalas near Cairns and Port Douglas.
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Kuranda is a charming, colourful village in the jungle about 45 minutes away from Cairns. In addition to the local markets and waterfalls, the Kuranda Koala Gardens is a top attraction of the area. Here you can see koalas and many other classic Aussie animals like quokkas, crocodiles, possums, kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, and many more. Consider traveling to Kuranda via the Skyrail or Scenic Railway for stunning rainforest views!
Rainforestation Nature Park
Another place to see koalas in Kuranda is at the Rainforestation Nature Park. This amazing local attraction is just outside Kuranda and is about a 40-minute drive from downtown Cairns. After admiring the adorable koalas in the park, consider an authentic Aboriginal Cultural Experience or going on an army duck tour through the jungle.
Hartley's Crocodile Adventure Park
One of the best places to take the kids in Cairns is Hartley's Crocodile Adventure Park. Even for adults, this animal-filled nature park is a great place to see some fascinating wildlife near Cairns. Watch the experienced staff mingle with massive crocs, go on guided nature walks, learn fun facts about all the various species, and even have the chance to cuddle a koala. Hartley's is about one hour north of Cairns, but you can book return transfers with your ticket online to make it easier!
Cairns Wildlife Dome
If you want to see a koala without even leaving the Cairns CBD, head to the Cairns Wildlife Dome! This family-friendly attraction provides a sanctuary for many Australian animals, including koalas. There are a number of unique reptiles, amphibians, birds, and marsupials that you can observe. After visiting the Wildlife Dome, test your agility at the Zoom indoor obstacle course next door!
Wildlife Habitat
About 1 hour north of Cairns is the beautiful coastal town of Port Douglas. Here you can book Great Barrier Reef tours, explore Mossman Gorge, lounge in palm-tree-filled parks, and see some fabulous animals at the local Wildlife Habitat. Admire, interact with, and learn about iconic Australian creatures and enjoy some incredible photo opportunities.
Where Do Koalas Live In The Wild?
Koalas currently live in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and parts of South Australia. In Queensland, Magnetic Island is the furthest north that you'll find a koala colony. The majority of koalas live near Queensland's southeast. So if you want to try and see a koala in the wild, you might want to try road tripping from Cairns down Australia's east coast! The Great Ocean Road near Melbourne is a popular place to see koalas, as is the Blue Mountains near Sydney. But remember, they are hard to find in the wild so don't feel discouraged if you don't see one during your travels!
Find more information about koalas on the Queensland Government website.
