11 Guaranteed Places where you can see Kangaroos in Melbourne

Where to see kangaroos in Melbourne? Below, you can find the best places for kangaroo spotting in Melbourne and around regional Victoria. We have included many places where you can see them roaming around for free, along with some other popular sanctuaries and golf clubs!|Looking for a sure-fire way to spot kangaroos in Melbourne? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top places to see these beloved marsupials in and around Melbourne, including free spots to catch them roaming wild. We’ve also included some popular sanctuaries and golf clubs where you can get up close and personal with these amazing animals.

Where to see Kangaroos in Melbourne

Of all the wildlife in Australia, Kangaroos are undoubtedly the most famous, and seeing these majestic marsupials in the wild is a bucket list experience to be noticed. Witnessing kangaroos in their natural habitat is a must-do while visiting Melbourne. The most iconic of Australia’s wildlife, these magnificent marsupials are a sight to behold and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kangaroos even feature on the Australian Coat of Arms in celebration of the fact Australia is the only country in the world where these unique creatures call home.|The unique creatures known as kangaroos are found only in Australia, which is why they are proudly depicted on the Australian Coat of Arms.

Nothing beats witnessing their graceful hops in the wild, their joeys peeking from pouches and tails swaying to keep them balanced, and just because you’re in the city doesn’t mean you’ve missed your opportunity to catch a glimpse. Observing their elegant leaps in their natural habitat, with their baby kangaroos peeking out from their pouches and their tails swaying to maintain their balance, is an unparalleled experience. Even if you find yourself in an urban environment, you still have a chance to catch a glimpse of these captivating creatures.

This guide details where to see kangaroos in Melbourne, including the best places in and around the city where you are guaranteed to spot a ‘roo or two. This comprehensive guide provides information on the locations in Melbourne where you can observe kangaroos, highlighting the top spots both within and near the city where you are certain to encounter a kangaroo or two.

1. Gisborne Golf Club

Large open grassland is an ideal habitat for kangaroos, making golf courses the ideal location to spot kangaroos in Melbourne. Kangaroos can often be spotted in Melbourne’s golf courses, as these large open grasslands provide an ideal habitat for them.

Based in the Macedon Ranges, around 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD, Gisborne Gold Club is home to nearly 200 Eastern Grey Kangaroos. Located in the picturesque Macedon Ranges, just a 40-minute drive from the bustling Melbourne CBD, Gisborne Golf Club is the proud home of a thriving population of nearly 200 Eastern Grey Kangaroos.

Although the Club boasts an attractive 18-hole course, it is proving more popular for the kangaroo viewing tour, which lasts 30 minutes and offers a guaranteed glimpse of these exciting animals – all from the comfort of a five-seater golf buggy. The Club’s 18-hole course may be a draw for golf enthusiasts, but it’s the kangaroo viewing tour that’s truly capturing attention. Lasting 30 minutes and offering a guaranteed sighting of these fascinating creatures, the tour takes place from the comfort of a five-seater golf buggy, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Kangaroo Tours cost $10 per adult or $30 for a family of 4. They are only available Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday and can be booked online via the Club website here. The cost of taking a Kangaroo Tour is $10 per adult or $30 for a family of four. These tours are exclusively offered on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday and can be reserved through the Club’s website by clicking here.

2. Anglesea Golf Course

Kangaroo Tours Anglesea
Heading further afield, Anglesea Golf Course is approximately an hour and a half Southwest of Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road. It is home to a mob of 300 Eastern grey kangaroos, which you can visit on an organized Kangaroo Tour. Located along the Great Ocean Road, about 90 minutes Southwest of Melbourne, you will find Anglesea Golf Course. This scenic course is not only great for golfing but also serves as a home to 300 Eastern grey kangaroos. For those interested, you can arrange a Kangaroo Tour to visit and observe these fascinating creatures.

Lead by Zoology students of Melbourne University, the tour will provide a fascinating insight into the life cycle and characteristics of these interesting animals.|The tour, led by students of Melbourne University’s Zoology department, promises to offer a captivating glimpse into the world of these intriguing creatures, shedding light on their life cycles and distinguishing features.

The tours were launched in 2015 and have welcomed visitors from around the world while ensuring the tour remains nature-based, operating from electric vehicles to minimize disturbance. The eco-friendly tours were introduced in 2015 and have since catered to guests from across the globe while maintaining a commitment to sustainability by utilizing electric vehicles and minimizing disruptions to the natural environment.

Tours run daily from 10 am-4 pm, and Twilight Tours are available from 4-6:30 pm. Tours last 25 minutes, including photo opportunities at various lookout points. The tours are offered every day from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon, and Twilight Tours are available from 4 to 6:30 pm. Each tour lasts 25 minutes and allows for photos at different lookout spots.

For a guaranteed sighting of kangaroos in Melbourne, book your kangaroo tour here with adult tickets costing $12.50 and children $5.|Secure a spot for a thrilling kangaroo encounter in Melbourne by booking your tour online today! Enjoy a guaranteed sighting of these fascinating creatures, with tickets priced at $12.50 for adults and $5 for children. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

If you are taking a day trip, check out our list of things to do in nearby Lorne. When planning a day trip, consider our curated list of activities and attractions in the nearby town of Lorne for a memorable experience.

3. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

Located a 50 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD, Moonlit Sanctuary is the perfect place to not only see kangaroos in Melbourne but witness koalas and wallabies roam free.|Just a short 50-minute drive from the heart of Melbourne, the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park offers a unique opportunity to observe kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies in their natural habitat.

Inspired by the conservation efforts of Gerald Durrell, Moonlit Sanctuary is home to over 60 Australian species allowing a rare natural encounter with many of the nation’s favorite fluffy friends including a mob of over 80 macropods such as wallabies, kangaroos, and pademelons. Taking inspiration from the conservation initiatives of Gerald Durrell, Moonlit Sanctuary provides a sanctuary for more than 60 species native to Australia, offering a unique opportunity to have a close encounter with some of the country’s beloved furry creatures. Visitors can witness over 80 macropods in their natural habitat, including wallabies, kangaroos, and pademelons.

You can even attend a “wallaby walk,” which offers the opportunity to feed the wallabies and kangaroos as they nibble the food from your hand. At the “wallaby walk,” you’ll have the chance to interact with wallabies and kangaroos up close and personal, feeding them by hand and experiencing the thrill of these fascinating creatures nibbling on treats from your very own fingers.

Alternatively, visit Moonlit Sanctuary in the evening for their world-famous lantern-lit tours as the Park’s nocturnal residents such as owls, quolls, and pademelons, forage for food. The tours last approx. Ninety minutes starting at 7 pm and cost $50 per adult, $30 per child. Consider visiting Moonlit Sanctuary in the evening for a unique and enchanting experience. The Park’s lantern-lit tours are world-famous and offer a glimpse into the lives of the sanctuary’s nocturnal residents, including owls, quolls, and pademelons, as they forage for food. The tours last approximately 90 minutes, starting at 7 pm, and cost $50 per adult and $30 per child.

For the ultimate adventure, the sanctuary can even arrange a transfer from the CBD, leaving from Federation Square, for an additional fee. For the ultimate experience, we can provide a convenient transfer from the Central Business District, departing from Federation Square, for a small additional fee. This will ensure that your adventure begins smoothly and stress-free.

For daytime visits, Moonlit Sanctuary is open daily from 10 am until 5 pm, and tickets cost $24 for adults and $12 for children (under 3s are free.)|Moonlit Sanctuary is available for daytime visits every day from 10 am to 5 pm. The admission fee for adults is $24, while children can enter for $12 (children under three years of age can enter for free).

4. Ballarat Wildlife Park

Kids Feed Kangaroos at Ballarat Wildlife Park
About 90 minutes from Melbourne, Ballarat Wildlife Park makes the perfect day trip. From the moment you enter, you are greeted by dozens of kangaroos of all sizes that you can interact with and even feed. Just a short 90-minute drive from Melbourne, a world of wildlife awaits at Ballarat Wildlife Park. As you enter, you’ll be surrounded by a mob of friendly kangaroos, ranging from tiny joeys to towering adults, all eager for a closer look and a tasty treat. It’s the perfect spot for a fun-filled day trip, with many opportunities for memorable encounters and photos.

While many wildlife parks charge for animal encounters, interacting with the kangaroos at the Ballarat Wildlife Park is included with your entry; don’t forget to purchase your food on arrival. Although some wildlife parks require payment for animal encounters, at the Ballarat Wildlife Park, you can interact with kangaroos without any additional charges. However, when you arrive, it is important to remember to buy food for the kangaroos.

You won’t have to search for these native animals; they freely hop around the Park. One of Melbourne’s best places to see kangaroos is where you can get close up. Kangaroos roam freely throughout the Park, eliminating the need for a dedicated search. This Park is one of Melbourne’s best places to encounter kangaroos, offering the opportunity for up-close experiences.

While you are in the area, make sure to check out the other Ballarat attractions, which include the famous Sovereign Hill and Kryal Castle, especially if you have kids. If you’re in the neighborhood, consider stopping by some of Ballarat’s other must-see destinations, such as the iconic Sovereign Hill and Kryal Castle, particularly if you’re traveling with little ones.

5. Woodlands Historic Park

If you’re looking for somewhere to see kangaroos in Melbourne without the crowds, head to the peaceful Woodlands Historic Park.|If you’re seeking a more secluded spot to observe kangaroos in Melbourne, consider visiting the tranquil Woodlands Historic Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful encounter with these fascinating creatures without the crowds.

Situated around 12 minutes from Melbourne Airport and a 30-minute drive from the CBD, the Park has a 150-year-old homestead and Indigenous canoe trees surrounded by native woodland and grassland. Nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, the Park boasts a storied 150-year-old homestead, majestic Indigenous canoe trees, and a diverse array of native flora, including woodland and grassland, all within a 12-minute drive from Melbourne Airport and a 30-minute drive from the city’s bustling CBD.

A visit to the Park’s fenced Back Paddock is guaranteed a sighting of the resident kangaroos as well as birds and other wildlife. When you go to the Park’s enclosed Back Paddock, you will see the kangaroos that live there, along with various birds and other animals.

The kangaroos here are surprisingly tolerant of humans, so as long as you remain quiet, you will be treated to some extraordinary photo opportunities of these creatures in the wild. The kangaroos in this area are unexpectedly comfortable with human presence, providing you with exceptional photography opportunities if you maintain a quiet and respectful distance.

The Park is open to cars from 9 am until 4.30 pm, but pedestrians have access 24 hours a day. For more details, see Parks Vic website. The Park is accessible to vehicles from 9 am to 4:30 pm, while pedestrians can enter the Park at any time, 24/7. For additional information, visit the Parks Vic website.

6. Halls Gap – The Grampians National Park

Fyans Creek Loop, Halls Gap
Suppose you have plans to make the epic road trip out to the Grampians. In that case, you must stop at Halls Gap, around 3 hours northwest of Melbourne.|If you’re planning a grand adventure to the Grampians, be sure to include a visit to Halls Gap, located approximately three hours northwest of Melbourne.

It is a small town where the kangaroo population appears to outnumber the humans, and it is a spectacular sight, especially if you plan on camping as you can witness crowds of kangaroos at both dawn and dusk. The town is diminutive in size, yet it is home to an extraordinary abundance of kangaroos, whose numbers far surpass those of the human inhabitants. The site is Nothing short of breathtaking, particularly for those who choose to camp, as they can observe large groups of kangaroos at sunrise and sunset.

Although you are almost guaranteed to spot them hopping around the roads of Halls Gap, it is highly recommended to pitch up at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park.|While it is very likely that you will see them jumping along the streets of Halls Gap, it is strongly advised to set up camp at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park.

Alongside the stunning backdrop of the Grampians National Park, you will witness the daily migration of kangaroos from the valley into the Park, offering an abundance of photo opportunities.|Set against the breathtaking canvas of the Grampians National Park, you’ll have the chance to observe and capture the daily movement of kangaroos as they make their way from the valley into the Park, providing a wealth of photographic possibilities.

Better yet, you can take in the ‘roos views from the comfort of a luxurious cabin, retro glamping tent, or even your motorhome, thanks to the variety of pitches that overlook the valley. Unpowered campsites start at just $31, with the campground open all year round to kangaroos and visitors alike. Additionally, you have the option to enjoy the scenic sights offered by the kangaroos while staying in a cozy cabin, trendy glamping tent, or even your motorhome, as there are different camping spots available that provide a view of the valley. Unpowered camping spots begin at an affordable price of $31, and the campground is open to both kangaroos and visitors throughout the year.

If you are heading to the Grampians, check out our full post on Things to do in Halls Gap. Or check out some options on where to stay in the area. |If planning a trip to the Grampians, read our comprehensive guide on activities in Halls Gap. For accommodation options in the area, click HERE.

Halls Gap is only 2.5 hours from Great Ocean Road – our next stop for spotting kangaroos in Melbourne. The journey from Halls Gap to Great Ocean Road takes approximately 2.5 hours, making it a convenient and accessible destination for those seeking to encounter kangaroos in Melbourne.

7. Princetown Recreation Reserve – Great Ocean Road

With the mesmerizing ocean on one side and towering rainforest on the other, it’s no surprise the Great Ocean Road is thriving with wildlife. The Princetown Recreation Reserve, located along the iconic Great Ocean Road, boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, with the breathtaking ocean views on one side and the majestic rainforest on the other, creating a unique habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Stretching 244km from Torquay to Warrnambool, this epic road trip offers endless opportunities to spot kangaroos in the wild. Covering a distance of 244km, this amazing journey from Torquay to Warrnambool presents numerous chances to observe kangaroos in their natural habitat.

A few favorites include – Johanna Beach car park on the Great Ocean Walk, Tower Hill between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, and the hidden gem of Princetown on the Gellibrand River Flats, which is mere minutes from the 12 Apostles. Some popular choices include – The Great Ocean Walk’s Johanna Beach car park, Tower Hill, situated between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, and the lesser-known gem of Princetown, located on the Gellibrand River Flats and just a short drive from the iconic 12 Apostles.

After a day of sightseeing on the Great Ocean Road, head to Princetown around dusk for one of Victoria’s best places to see kangaroos. You can easily spend hours admiring parents and joeys hop from one shrub to the next. As the sun sets, make your way to Princetown for an unforgettable kangaroo-spotting experience. This picturesque location along the Great Ocean Road offers one of the best opportunities to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. For hours, you can marvel at the sight of kangaroos hopping effortlessly between shrubs, their joeys peeking out of their pouches as they bound through the landscape.

As a tip, a campsite at Princetown Recreation Reserve offers powered sites and hot showers for only $25 a night. It’s ideal for not only watching the kangaroos enjoy their breakfast but for witnessing the 12 apostles at sunrise, which are only a 10-minute drive away from the campsite. For a nominal fee of $25 per night, the Princetown Recreation Reserve campsite offers powered sites and hot showers, providing an ideal location for observing kangaroos during their morning meal and the breathtaking sunrise views of the 12 apostles, conveniently located just a 10-minute drive away.

8. Healesville Sanctuary
Kangaroos in Melbourne
Situated in the stunning Yarra Valley wine region, only an hour from Melbourne is Healesville Sanctuary. As you wander through the tranquil bushland, you will be able to admire many Australian icons such as koalas, wombats, platypus, and kangaroos. Just an hour outside of Melbourne, you’ll find the picturesque Healesville Sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Yarra Valley wine region. As you explore the serene bushland, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and platypus.

 

By connecting people and wildlife, Healesville Sanctuary hopes to inspire communities to conserve wildlife and the natural habitats of these beautiful animals. Healesville Sanctuary strives to foster a deep connection between people and wildlife, with the ultimate goal of inspiring communities to protect and preserve the natural habitats of these incredible creatures.

Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, Healesville Sanctuary is $38 per adult but FREE for children under 16 on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays; otherwise, its $19 per child. Healesville Sanctuary is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and the admission prices are as follows: adults cost $38 per person, while children under 16 years old can enter for free on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays. On other days, children’s admission is $19 per child.

See our full post on zoos in Melbourne here. Check out our comprehensive guide to zoos in Melbourne by clicking here.

9. Cardinia Reservoir Park Kangaroo Viewing Trail

Around 45 minutes South of Healesville Sanctuary and 45 minutes East of Melbourne CBD, you will find the Cardinia Reservoir Kangaroo Viewing Trail, which runs adjacent to the reservoir wall. Located just 45 minutes southeast of Melbourne’s city center and 45 minutes south of Healesville Sanctuary, the Kangaroo Viewing Trail at Cardinia Reservoir Park offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. The trail runs alongside the reservoir wall, providing a picturesque backdrop for your kangaroo-spotting adventure.

Park up at the Spillway carpark, then head downhill to the Crystal Brook picnic area. Along the route, you will find endless information about kangaroos in Melbourne and fascinating facts and figures about the Australian icon. Start by parking your vehicle at the Spillway carpark and proceed downhill towards the Crystal Brook picnic area. Throughout the journey, you will find many details regarding kangaroos in Melbourne, along with intriguing information and statistics about this iconic Australian creature.

It is the perfect escape from the bustle of city life to enjoy a BBQ or let the kids run free with spectacular views of both the dam and joyful kangaroos. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban living and unwind with a barbecue or allow your children to roam freely, all while taking in breathtaking sights of the dam and lively kangaroos.

The main gate to the Park is open from 9 am and closes at 8 pm, with the optimum time for kangaroo sightings being late afternoon. The Park’s primary entrance is accessible from 9 am to 8 pm, with the late afternoon offering the best opportunities for spotting kangaroos.

10. Gresswell Forest Nature Conservation Reserve

Located within the suburbs of Bundoora and Macleod, around 30 minutes from the CBD, the Gresswell Nature Conservation area is three linking reserves that make up an area of over 70 hectares. The Gresswell Forest Nature Conservation Reserve consists of three connected reserves spanning over 70 hectares and is situated in Bundoora and Macleod suburbs, approximately 30 minutes away from the CBD.

Spanning 50 hectares, The Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve is the largest and also the most popular for sightings of kangaroos. Covering an expansive 50 hectares, The Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve is the premier destination for kangaroo sightings, attracting visitors from far and wide.

If you head for the Grasslands Track, you will spot mobs of kangaroos grazing and bounding over the grassland. The Park can only be accessed by foot to minimize disruption, with parking available at Greenwood Drive. As you venture towards the Grasslands Track, you’ll be greeted by abundant mobs of kangaroos, peacefully grazing and effortlessly bounding across the vast expanse of grassland. To preserve the serenity of the Park and minimize disturbance, visitors must explore the area on foot, with convenient parking facilities available at Greenwood Drive.

Note there are also no BBQ, picnic, or toilet facilities to protect the natural landscape as much as possible; however, they are available in the adjacent Greenwood Drive parkland. It should be noted that there are no BBQs, picnic areas, or bathrooms to preserve the natural scenery. However, these amenities can be found in the nearby Greenwood Drive park.

The reserve is open 24 hours with numerous events and Nature Walks scheduled throughout the year. The reserve is accessible at all times and offers a variety of activities and Nature Walks throughout the year.

Things to consider when kangaroo spotting in Melbourne
Although kangaroos are common throughout Australia, the fertile landscape attracts the smaller, grey kangaroo to Melbourne in particular. When it comes to kangaroo spotting in Melbourne, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, the lush and fertile landscape of the area makes it an ideal habitat for the smaller, grey variety of kangaroo. This is why Melbourne is particularly popular among these fascinating creatures.

You will also find Wallabies across Victoria, which are similar in appearance, although much smaller. Additionally, you can spot smaller wallabies in Victoria that resemble their larger counterparts in appearance.

Kangaroos are vegetarian. Hence, their likelihood to frequent areas of grassland or nearby woodlands to scavenge for nuts, leaves, and seeds. Due to their herbivorous nature, kangaroos tend to frequently inhabit grassy regions or adjacent forests to search for nuts, foliage, and seeds.

To see kangaroos in Melbourne, visiting these sites around dawn or late afternoon is best. Always practice caution when driving near a kangaroo-prone area, as collisions are common when kangaroos become startled by vehicles. For the best chance to spot kangaroos in Melbourne, it is recommended to go to these locations early in the morning or the evening. It is important to exercise care when driving near areas where kangaroos are frequently seen, as accidents often occur when kangaroos are startled by cars.

Please note, as with all wildlife in Australia, respect these creatures from a distance. Although being city dwellers, they are not always comfortable with humans approaching, so take photos from afar and never attempt to feed a wild animal. It is important to remember that when it comes to wildlife in Australia, it is crucial to show respect and keep a distance from these creatures. Even though they may be accustomed to urban environments, they may only sometimes feel at ease with human presence. It is best to take photographs from a distance and never try to feed a wild animal.

There are plenty of Kangaroos in Melbourne and around!
From golf courses to the Great Ocean Road, hopefully, this guide has guaranteed you a glimpse of where to see kangaroos in Melbourne – let us know in the comments how your kangaroo mission goes or if your favorite wildlife spot isn’t on the list!|Melbourne and its surroundings are abundant with Kangaroos! Whether exploring golf courses or venturing along the Great Ocean Road, this guide provides options on where to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. We would love to hear about your kangaroo encounters and any favorite wildlife spots not mentioned in this list, so please feel free to share in the comments!