Koala Hospital
A vital rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to saving koalas, offering visitors a chance to learn and support their crucial conservation work.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Koalas are most active
Koala Hospital
Best Time
Koalas are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to saving koalas, offering visitors a chance to learn and support their crucial conservation work.
"An amazing experience! We gained fascinating insights into the organization’s work at the Koala Hospital."
🎯 Arrive Early for Feeding
Catch koalas at their most active during morning feeding times (8:30-9:00 AM). :clock1:
💖 Support with Donations
Your donations are crucial for koala care. Consider buying from the gift shop or donating directly. :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Feeding Time
Koala enclosures
Witness koalas enjoying their meals, a heartwarming sight and prime time for activity.
Joey Encounters
Special joey enclosures
See adorable koala joeys, some of whom are recovering from injuries or being cared for after rescue.
Educational Insights
Visitor center
Learn fascinating facts about koalas and the hospital's conservation efforts from knowledgeable staff and volunteers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Visit Early for Active Koalas
Support Through Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Feeding
Catch koalas at their most active during morning feeding times (8:30-9:00 AM). +1 :clock1:
💖 Support with Donations
Your donations are crucial for koala care. Consider buying from the gift shop or donating directly. :heart:
📚 Learn from Experts
Engage with friendly volunteers for fascinating koala facts and conservation insights. +1 :books:
🚶♀️ Explore the New Site
The hospital has moved to a new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre. Visit for continued insights. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Feeding
Catch koalas at their most active during morning feeding times (8:30-9:00 AM). +1 :clock1:
💖 Support with Donations
Your donations are crucial for koala care. Consider buying from the gift shop or donating directly. :heart:
📚 Learn from Experts
Engage with friendly volunteers for fascinating koala facts and conservation insights. +1 :books:
🚶♀️ Explore the New Site
The hospital has moved to a new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre. Visit for continued insights.
📸 Admire from a Distance
Remember koalas are wild. Admire them from afar and report sightings to the hospital. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Koala Hospital for its heartwarming mission and the dedication of its staff and volunteers. The opportunity to see koalas, especially during feeding times, and learn about conservation efforts is a major draw. While an entry fee is now in place, most feel it's a worthy contribution to a vital cause.
"I recommend going early when the koalas are still active and having their mealtime. It was heartwarming to see how the unwell or injured koalas were cared for. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the volunteers were doing an amazing job.
During our visit, there were four joeys, and it was wonderful to see them all. Evans, an injured koala on a special diet, was a delight to watch as he enjoyed his meal. The educational section was also excellent, providing interesting koala facts and valuable knowledge."
P.L.I. Wimalaratne
"What a wonderful place for rescued Koalas. When you visit in the morning when the Koalas get food they are awake. Since September 2024 the hospital needs to charge an entry fee because people weren’t donating enough. An adult pays 12,50$ to treat the sick Koalas. We loved the visit and only met very kind volunteers."
Jules Spa
"An amazing experience! We gained fascinating insights into the organization’s work at the Koala Hospital. The dedicated volunteers were incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer all our questions. We were lucky to spot a few koalas, but it’s clear that the focus here is not on showcasing the animals for tourism but on their protection and care—huge respect for that!
The hospital will be closing soon, but there is a koala breeding center on the other side of the city, run by the same organization. We were encouraged to visit for more valuable insights.
I highly recommend a visit—thank you for your incredible work, and keep it up!"
Brian M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Koala Hospital has relocated to its new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre. Check their official website or social media for the most current address and directions. It's a recommended stop when traveling the east coast of Australia between Sydney and Brisbane.
Information on parking at the new visitor center can be found on the Koala Hospital's official channels. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for the latest details.
While specific public transport routes to the new visitor center may vary, Port Macquarie is accessible by bus services. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for Port Macquarie.
Many travelers visit Port Macquarie as a stopover between major cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Driving or taking a bus are common methods for reaching the region.
The new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre is designed to be accessible. It's always a good idea to confirm specific accessibility features with the hospital if you have particular needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, since September 2024, the Koala Hospital charges an entry fee to support the care of sick koalas. The fee for adults is approximately $12.50.
While booking in advance might not always be mandatory, it's a good idea to check the Koala Hospital's official website for any ticketing requirements or recommendations, especially during peak seasons.
The Koala Hospital's new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre is open 7 days a week. For specific daily hours, it's best to consult their official website or social media pages.
Information regarding discounts for seniors, children, or families is typically available on the Koala Hospital's official website. It's recommended to check there for the most up-to-date pricing.
Previously, entry was free, but now there is an entry fee to support the koalas' care. Some TikTok videos mention free entry, but this may refer to older information.
🎫 🦘 Onsite Experience
You can observe koalas, learn about their rehabilitation, and understand conservation efforts. Witnessing feeding times is a highlight, and you might see joeys.
The best time to see koalas active is during their feeding times, which are typically in the early morning (8:30-9:00 AM) and in the evening. +1
While not always explicitly advertised, volunteers are often available to share information and answer questions, providing an informal guided experience. +1
Direct interaction with the koalas is generally not permitted to ensure their well-being and recovery. The focus is on observation and learning.
The new center continues the mission of rescuing, treating, and rehabilitating koalas, offering visitors insights into the organization's work.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase items to support the hospital's work. It's a great way to contribute to koala conservation.
The Koala Hospital has a heritage onsite with a cafe that offers memorabilia. Specific dining options may vary at the new visitor center.
The gift shop typically offers a range of souvenirs, including koala-themed items, that help fund the hospital's operations.
While specific policies may vary, it's generally advisable to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas if available, or to check with the venue.
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that also features memorabilia, offering a place to relax and learn more about koalas.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the koalas' well-being and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb them. +1
Morning feeding times offer great opportunities for photos as koalas are more active. Early morning light can also be ideal for capturing clear shots. +1
Yes, you can photograph the joeys, but always maintain a respectful distance to avoid stressing them or their mothers.
While general photography is permitted, avoid intrusive behavior. Always prioritize the animals' comfort and safety over getting the perfect shot.
You can find many photos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok by searching for relevant hashtags like #koalahospitalportmacquarie.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving early in the morning to maximize your chances of seeing the koalas awake and eating. The volunteers are usually very friendly and happy to answer children's questions, making the experience interactive and memorable. The new visitor center ensures a welcoming environment for all ages.
❤️ Wildlife Enthusiasts & Conservationists
Engage with the knowledgeable volunteers to learn about specific koala cases, conservation strategies, and how you can contribute. Supporting the hospital through donations or purchases directly aids their mission to save koalas. The relocation to the new visitor center signifies their growing commitment and capacity.
🎒 Backpackers & Budget Travelers
Visiting in the morning offers the best chance to see active koalas without large crowds. It's a great way to break up a long journey between cities like Sydney and Brisbane and experience a unique part of Australian wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Koala Conservation
Recent changes, including the relocation to a new Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre, highlight their ongoing commitment to expanding their capacity and improving visitor experience while maintaining their core mission. The hospital relies heavily on public support, making visits and donations crucial for their continued operation.
Visitors gain a unique insight into the challenges faced by koalas and the incredible work being done to protect them. It’s a place that fosters a deeper appreciation for these iconic Australian marsupials and the importance of conservation efforts.
A Day at the Koala Hospital
Beyond feeding times, the hospital offers educational insights into koala behavior, diet, and the challenges they face. Knowledgeable volunteers are often on hand to answer questions, making the visit both informative and engaging. You might also have the chance to see young joeys being cared for, adding to the charm of the visit.
While the focus is on rehabilitation, the hospital also has a gift shop and a cafe, allowing visitors to support the cause further and enjoy a pleasant break. The move to the new visitor center ensures that this valuable work continues to be accessible to the public.
Koala Rehabilitation and Care
For koalas with severe injuries, such as Nigel, who lost a leg due to nerve damage from an electric fence entanglement, the hospital focuses on providing a comfortable and supported life, even if release back into the wild isn't possible. This commitment to individual care underscores the hospital's compassionate approach.
The Wild Koala Breeding Visitor Centre signifies an expansion of their efforts, aiming to bolster koala populations and continue their vital rescue and rehabilitation work. This ensures that future generations can benefit from the presence of these beloved marsupials.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit