National Parks and Wildlife Service
South Australia

Behind The Scenes Koala Experience

Step beyond the public viewing areas and let our team open the gates to an exclusive behind-the-scenes adventure in our koala lofts. This rare opportunity allows you to enter the koala loft, a privilege usually reserved for our dedicated keepers.

Experience firsthand how our keepers provide expert care for these gentle creatures. You’ll be invited to approach the koalas up-close and, with the keeper’s assistance, offer a piece of fresh eucalyptus. If a koala chooses to accept your offering, you’ll capture incredible behind-the-scenes photos that most visitors only dream of.

This unique access also gives you a deeper understanding of the important conservation work being done to protect koalas and their natural habitats. By joining this behind-the-scenes experience, you’re directly supporting efforts to ensure these iconic Australian animals continue to thrive for generations to come.

Bookings are essential.

This experience is for guests aged 13 years and over. Children aged 13 years to 15 years inclusive must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Please note: The Behind The Scenes Koala Experience will be cancelled if the forecast temperature at Mt Barker is 32°C or above.

Additionally, after three consecutive days of temperatures reaching 32°C or higher, our koalas will be given a rest day, and the experience will not be offered.

We appreciate your understanding as we prioritise the wellbeing of our animals.

Tour Highlights:

·        Exclusive journey behind the scenes of our koala lofts.

·        See the koala keepers in action, and learn about the care that goes into keeping koalas.

·        Opportunity to assist with potting gum.

·        Great photo opportunity.

·        Learn how Cleland Wildlife Park is contributing to koala conservation.

 

Availability:     Daily

Time:               12.15pm (11.45am ticket office check in is required)

Number:          Maximum 4 participants

Age:                 This experience is for guests aged 13 years and over.

                         Children aged 13 years to 15 years must be accompanied by a paying adult. 

Duration:         30 minutes

Cost:                $117.00 per person  (Price will increase on 1st July)

Please read Terms and Conditions before booking.

Booking Conditions:

By making payment you are agreeing to abide by our conditions of entry and the following booking conditions:

  • Bookings remain tentative until payment is received in full.
  • A late arrival will forfeit your booking, and a refund will not be issued.
  • For safety reasons, participants must be able to understand and follow all instructions given by Cleland staff.
  • Participants may be asked to leave the experience at any time at the discretion of staff. Cleland staff reserve the right to stop experiences at any time for the safety and welfare of guests and animals.
  • Guest booking cancellation requests must be made in writing 5 days prior to booking to receive a full refund. Cancellation requests shorter than this period will not be refunded. If a refund is authorised, it will be made within 28 days of booking date.
  • Cancellations made by Cleland Wildlife Park may occur due to extreme weather, or other conditions, outside of the park’s control. You will be notified via email if this is to occur and will be refunded in full.
  • Due to unpredictable animal behaviour and weather, experiences may vary.
  • Cleland Wildlife Park will close when the Fire Danger Rating (FDI) is classified ‘extreme’ with Fire Bush Index (FBI) of 75+, as published by the Bureau of Meteorology at 4pm the day prior. You will be notified via email if this is to occur and will be refunded in full.
  • Prices increase on 1 July annually. Bookings are charged at applicable rates.
  • Entry to Cleland Wildlife Park is not included. Valid entry is compulsory.
  • Only paying participants may participate in the tour.
  • This experience is for guests aged 13 years and over. Children aged 13 years to 15 years must be accompanied by a paying adult.
  • Maximum number of guests for this experience is 4
  • You must arrive at the Ticket Office 30 minutes prior to the start time of your experience. A late check-in may forfeit your booking, and a refund will not be issued
  • You must be at your experience 5 minutes prior to the start time of your booking. A late arrival will forfeit your booking, and a refund will not be issued
  • Low: Participant must be able to stand for a duration of 30 minutes.
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible, however please contact our team to discuss alternative options.
  • Prams may not be taken into this experience.
  • Please note, we have a heat policy for the welfare and comfort of our guests and staff. If the temperature is forecast to reach 37 degrees at Mt Barker, then it is too hot for this experience to take place. The experience will be cancelled, and you will be refunded in full.
  • Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear for your experience.
  • Strong perfume and loud jewellery can upset the koalas. You may be asked to clean off perfume or remove jewellery to take part in this experience.
  • We recommend that guests wear enclosed footwear.