Activities Guide / Honest Review

Is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Worth It? An Honest Review

A person feeding a colorful rainbow lorikeet at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

As one of the longest-running attractions on the Gold Coast, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a name you'll see everywhere. But with a significant ticket price, it's fair to ask the big question: **is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary worth it?** Is it a must-do cultural experience or just an overpriced tourist trap? We've dived into what makes the sanctuary special—and what its drawbacks are—to help you decide if it's the right fit for your holiday.

The "Must-Do" Experiences (The Pros)

There are a few truly unique and magical experiences at Currumbin that visitors consistently rave about.

1. The Rainbow Lorikeet Feeding

This is the iconic Currumbin experience. Twice a day (usually 8 AM and 4 PM), hundreds of wild rainbow lorikeets descend upon the park for a feeding session. You hold out a plate of nectar, and these vibrant, noisy birds will land all over your hands, arms, and even your head. It's chaotic, joyful, and completely unforgettable. **Pro-Tip:** This area is outside the main park entrance, so you can actually experience the feeding for just a small gold coin donation, even without a full park ticket!

2. The "Wild Skies" Free Flight Bird Show

Consistently rated as one of the best parts of the park. This show features incredible birds of prey like the Wedge-tailed Eagle, as well as pelicans and colorful parrots, soaring freely over the audience. It's spectacular, educational, and professionally run.

3. The Miniature Train

The sanctuary is huge (27 hectares), and the small-scale train that loops around the park is a lifesaver, especially for those with little kids or mobility issues. It's a charming attraction in its own right and saves a lot of walking.

4. Up-Close Animal Encounters

The sanctuary provides fantastic, naturalistic habitats where you can walk amongst kangaroos and wallabies, see giant saltwater crocodiles, and get that classic photo holding a koala (for an extra fee).

Things to Consider (The Cons)

To give you an honest picture, here are a few things to be aware of.

  • The Cost: This is the main drawback for many. It's not a cheap day out, especially for a large family. Buying tickets online in advance or looking for multi-day passes that bundle other parks is highly recommended.
  • It's a Classic, Not Ultra-Modern: The park has been around since 1947. While it's beautifully maintained, some enclosures and areas can feel a bit dated compared to brand-new zoos. It has a more rustic, natural charm.
  • It Requires a Full Day: Don't try to rush it. To see the main shows and walk around the grounds, you need to budget at least 4-5 hours, if not more.

The Verdict: So, Is It Worth It?

**For international visitors and families with children, the answer is a resounding yes.** It offers the most comprehensive and interactive Australian wildlife experience on the Gold Coast. The value of the shows and the lorikeet feeding alone often justifies the ticket price for many.

**You might consider skipping it if** you are on a very tight budget or if you have recently visited another major Australian zoo like Australia Zoo or Taronga Zoo.

Our overall recommendation is to make it a priority. It's an iconic Gold Coast experience for a reason.

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