Two common marmoset monkeys sitting on a tree branch at an Australian wildlife park.

Spending a Day at a Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast: What to Expect and What to Bring

Get Up Close with Nature: A Fun-Filled Day Among Kangaroos, Koalas and more at Paradise Country

Jessica B

Published Date: 27 Oct 2025

A day at Paradise Country on the Gold Coast is the perfect escape for families, couples, or anyone hoping to connect with iconic Australian Wildlife. This guide covers everything you need to know, what to expect, essential packing tips, and practical advice to make your visit memorable and hassle-free. Visiting a wildlife park is one of the best ways to slow down, meet iconic Australian animals, and make easy family memories. If you are planning a Gold Coast Day out at Paradise Country, this friendly guide will walk you through what to expect, what to pack, and a few insider tips so your day goes smoothly. 

A young koala sits on a tree branch surrounded by green leaves, looking toward the camera with sunlight filtering through the foliage in the background.

Must-Do Experiences at Paradise Country  

The park also offers a lively schedule of farm shows for an authentic Aussie experience. Watch whip cracking, boomerang throwing, and stock horse demonstrations which are entertaining and educational for all ages. These engaging live presentations are great for breaking up the day and gives kids a chance to relax while enjoying some hands-on Australiana. 

 

Visit the Farmyard Nursery and Farmyard Play Paddock and immerse yourself in the world of a real-life farm. Meet the adorable Farm Animals of the park like the Goats and Guinea Pigs.  

 

Hop into the Wildlife Walkabout to meet some of Australia’s most iconic native wildlife like the Koala. Meet eastern grey and red kangaroo's as they roam around the walkabout. Watch inquisitive tasmanian devils explore their exhibit or sleep in the nocturnal exhibit.  

Tasmanian devil perched on a fallen log, surrounded by greenery at Paradise Country’s wildlife habitat.
Get up close to adorable baby animals and experience the sweetest springtime encounters for the whole family.

Gold Coast’s Exclusive Meerkat and Monkey Encounter

Looking for a wild adventure on the Gold Coast? Paradise Country is your ticket to meet the only Meerkats and Marmoset Monkeys on the Gold Coast and Brisbane! Jump into an unforgettable marmoset monkey* or meerkat encounter* and leave with a professional photograph to remember it all. This is one experience you’ll be bragging about for ages! 

 

If you love Australian animals, don’t miss the koala encounter* at Paradise Country. This exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences let you get up close to these sleepy natives, learn from knowledgeable wildlife keepers, and even feed koalas their favourite snack. Plus, you’ll receive a professional photo to remember the experience. 

 

For a truly memorable morning, book an exclusive experience, such as a koala breakfast*. These experiences have limited capacity and only run on Saturdays and Sundays so make sure to book ahead of your visit. 

 

*Paid Experiences  

A woman, a child, and a man sit outdoors on wooden steps, smiling and laughing together. A meerkat stands alert behind them on a rock, adding a playful touch to the scene.
Two women stand in a lush, indoor enclosure, smiling as several small monkeys climb on and around them.
Zoo keeper and young girl interacting with a koala perched on a tree branch, surrounded by eucalyptus leaves, during an animal encounter experience.

What to Bring 

Packing a small day pack makes your day at Paradise Country easy and enjoyable. Here are the essentials worth bringing along: 

  • Comfortable shoes and sun-safe clothing  You’ll be walking between shows and various animal exhibits, so wear lightweight clothing and sturdy shoes to keep everyone comfortable. *If taking part in an animal experience, make sure you have close toe shoes. 

  • A refillable water bottle  Staying hydrated is essential, especially for kids who are always on the go. You can top up at water stations or refill during meal breaks at the Farmhouse Restaurant. 

  • Sunscreen and a hat  The Gold Coast sun can be strong even on cooler or cloudy days. Apply sunscreen before you arrive and reapply throughout the day. 

  • A camera or phone  Capture all the moments from whip cracking to sleepy koalas. Encounters are photo-friendly but always follow the keeper's instructions on when you can use a device. 

 

A group of adults and children stand at a wooden fence in an outdoor zoo, observing animals in an enclosure surrounded by trees.
A family of four sits at a restaurant table, smiling and laughing together. They have plates of food and drinks in front of them, enjoying a cheerful meal in a warmly lit, casual dining setting.

Tips for Families and Couples 

Arrive a little before the first show you want to see so you can get a good spot and a relaxed start. Shows are family-friendly and short, making them great for splitting up the day. If you have toddlers, consider taking advantage of the quieter morning hours. 

For couples seeking a quieter pace, take a stroll along the wildlife walkabout and explore the native wildlife section. 

 

Accessibility and Facilities 

The park provides guest services and accessibility information on its park info pages. If you need assistance, have a stroller, or require mobility support, check the accessibility guide before you go and contact guest services for the best entry and parking advice. 

 

The car park sits at the top of the park, so there’s a little walk to the entrance. It’s a great chance for kids to stretch their legs before running into the nursery to meet the goats, and on the way back, parents can call it the ‘wind down walk’ after a big day of adventure. 

 

A boy kneels on grass, feeding a small black and white goat with one hand while another goat stands nearby at Paradise Country. There is a fence and trees in the background.
A family with two children walks outside a building labeled "shearing shed" at Paradise Country, while two other people walk behind them under a clear sky.

Extend Your Stay for the Ultimate Wildlife Experience 

If one day at the farm and wildlife park isn’t enough, extend your adventure with a night or two at Paradise Country Farmstay. Nestled within Paradise Country, the Farmstay provides a variety of accommodation options for every budget and comfort level. Set up camp with your own tent or caravan at the campgrounds or treat yourself to an glamping experience in eco tents Eco Tents private en-suite facility, offering a touch of luxury while surrounded by nature. 

By staying overnight, you’ll enjoy exclusive experiences, such as twilight wildlife tours and the tranquil atmosphere that follows the day’s guests' departure. Then start your morning with the gentle sounds of the farm, help feed the farm animals and opt for a Farmstay Breakfast Package to kick-start your day. 

A neatly made bed with beige linens and rolled towels sits in a canvas tent room with a window showing trees outside; a small bedside table holds a lantern.
A family of four sits around a campfire outdoors, smiling and roasting marshmallows, with trees and buildings visible in the background.
A family of four smiles while feeding hay to a cow over a wooden fence at an outdoor farm. Trees and a building are visible in the background.

Plan for a Relaxed Visit 

Paradise Country is designed for a relaxed visit, scheduled shows  and animal experiences that run throughout the day*, allowing you to easily build an itinerary. Check opening hours and park details before you leave so you know when key shows and encounters happen and where to find guest services if you need help.   

Download the Village Roadshow Theme Parks App to stay up to date with the latest information. 

 

*Animal Experiences are subject to availability. Don’t miss out and book ahead online! 

 

Ready to Visit? 

Ready to plan your visit? Book tickets and view the 'what’s on' schedule on the official Paradise Country website to reserve memorable encounters and see show times in advance. 

See you at the farm for a day of koala cuddles, meerkat mischief, and unforgettable Australian adventures! 

A small train with several open carriages carrying passengers stops at a rustic outdoor station surrounded by trees, while people stand nearby.
Two women smile while surrounded by small monkeys in a lush, green outdoor setting. One woman holds a tray of food as monkeys climb on both women and nearby branches. The atmosphere is joyful and playful.
A koala sits on a tree branch surrounded by lush green leaves and sunlight, looking off to the side in a natural, outdoor setting.
A family of four holds hands and walks out of a rustic building labeled “Save a Mate Headquarters” at a wildlife park on a sunny day.

Spending a Day at a Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast: What to Expect and What to Bring