Where to See Kangaroos Up Close in Queensland
Discover unforgettable wildlife encounters with kangaroos and native Australian animals on the Gold Coast.
Jessica B
Published Date: 14 Oct 2025
Queensland is one of the best places to meet a kangaroo in its element. Whether you are traveling with kids or visiting from overseas, getting close to these iconic marsupials is a memorable way to connect with native Australian animals and learn about wildlife in a safe and friendly setting.
Paradise Country Gold Coast: The Top Pick for Family-Friendly Encounters
Paradise Country on the Gold Coast is a standout place to meet kangaroos and wallabies up close.
One of the best experiences is the Wildlife Walkabout. This attraction guides visitors through natural exhibits, where they can meet kangaroos and other native Australian animals while learning from expert keepers about their behaviour and conservation. The Wildlife Walkabout is a relaxed and hands-on experience, ideal for curious children or overseas visitors seeking an up-close encounter.
If you are interested in learning about the care of animals, the Wildlife Nutrition Centre at Paradise Country offers a behind-the-scenes look at the food and nutrition that keep kangaroos healthy. It is a great way to teach children about animal welfare and the science behind diets for different species
New Attractions to Watch for Paradise Country continues to refresh its animal experiences. In recent seasons, the park has added meerkats and marmoset monkeys to its animal family, providing guests with new opportunities to see exotic and smaller species alongside classic Aussie animals right here in Queensland.
What to Expect When You Visit A typical day meeting kangaroos at a wildlife park looks like this.
Friendly keepers nearby to supervise interactions and explain safe behaviour around animals
Engaging wildlife presentations that share insights into native habitats and conservation efforts
Photo opportunities with plenty of natural light and open spaces
Animal Experiences and Wildlife Photos, where you can meet Native and Exotic species
Some animal encounters are included with park entry, like meeting your new Kangaroo friend! While some special experiences might be an add-on, such as feeding the koala's in a koala encounter* their favourite food! Paradise Country makes it easy to book tickets and animal experiences online. Download the Village Roadshow Theme Parks App to check show times and meet and greets, making it easier to plan your day.
Stay a Little Longer at Paradise Country’s Farmstay If you want your wildlife experience to stretch beyond a single day, stay at Paradise Country Farmstay. It combines accommodation, nature, and encounters with animals into one relaxing farm escape.
You can stay in eco tents or campsites designed for families.
Farmstay activities include animal feeding, egg collecting, cow milking, and more hands-on experiences with kangaroos and other native Australian animals.
During your stay, you also get full guest entry to Paradise Country throughout park operating hours, so you can fit in shows, meet and greets, and wildlife presentations.
Dining, campfires, and comfortable accommodation (with options like ensuite eco-tents) make it perfect for families to slow down, absorb wildlife awareness, and truly connect with nature.
Friday and Saturday evenings feature twilight tours where guests can meet Australian native animals.
Practical Tips for Meeting Kangaroos Safely and Respectfully
Approach slowly and stay calm. Sudden movements can startle animals.
Always follow the keeper's instructions. They know each animal and how to keep interactions safe and secure.
Do not feed wildlife. Human food and treats can be harmful to our wildlife.
Wear comfortable shoes and pack sunscreen and water.
Why Kangaroos are Must-see in Queensland
Kangaroos are more than a photo moment. They are part of a unique ecosystem you can experience on the Gold Coast and beyond. For families who want authentic wildlife encounters without long hikes or off-road travel, Paradise Country provides easy access to close viewing, keeper talks, and interactive shows that bring animal stories to life.
Where Else to Look for Kangaroos in Queensland Beyond wildlife parks, kangaroos can often be spotted in rural reserves and along some coastal areas of Queensland, especially at dawn and dusk when they are most active. If you are planning a nature-focused outing, local visitor centres can point you to safe viewing spots. Always remember to keep a respectful distance from wild animals to ensure both your safety and theirs. Remember to never touch a wild animal; in Queensland, all native animals are protected by law. For families short on time, visiting a wildlife park like Paradise Country offers a guaranteed opportunity to see kangaroos up close in a safe and relaxed setting, with plenty of extra activities to enjoy.
Seeing a kangaroo up close is one of those simple travel moments that stays with you. For families visiting the Gold Coast, Paradise Country offers authentic native Australian animals, interactive keeper-led experiences, and new exhibits to discover. Book ahead to secure your day out and experience shows, photo opportunities, and the chance to learn about wildlife conservation from the wildlife keepers. Plan your visit and buy tickets today and meet Australia’s most lovable marsupials in person!