Cleland Wildlife Park Experience – from Adelaide including Mt Lofty Summit

A detailed look at the Cleland Wildlife Park Experience from Adelaide, including Mt. Lofty Summit

Taking a trip to Adelaide offers plenty of memorable moments, but nothing quite compares to a day spent with Australia’s iconic animals and panoramic vistas. This guided tour, offered by pureSA, combines the best of both worlds: a close encounter with native wildlife at Cleland Wildlife Park alongside stunning views from Mt. Lofty Summit. It’s a well-balanced, value-packed outing that promises authentic experiences in a relaxed setting.

What we particularly like about this tour is its small-group size — capped at just 13 travelers — which ensures a personal, unrushed experience. Plus, the inclusive pricing covers all entry fees, animal food, and convenient hotel pickup, making it straightforward and stress-free. The only thing to keep in mind is that if you’re especially eager to hold a koala, booking that experience in advance is recommended because it can sell out quickly.

This tour is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of Australia’s native animals without the hassle of planning. However, those seeking a more extensive wildlife adventure or a longer hike might find the 5-hour itinerary a bit limited. Still, for the price and the intimacy, it offers a genuine slice of Aussie nature and scenery.

Key Points

Personalized small-group experience ensures closer interaction and fewer crowds.
All-inclusive entry fees mean no surprises or extra costs inside the park.
Up-close animal encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies are a highlight.
Panoramic views from Mt. Lofty provide excellent photo opportunities and a break from wildlife.
Transport and hotel pickup make logistics simple and hassle-free.
Reviews consistently praise knowledgeable guides and the relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Review of the Tour Itinerary

Cleland Wildlife Park: Australian Animals in Open Space

The day begins with a scenic drive from Adelaide into the Adelaide Hills, arriving at Cleland Wildlife Park, which covers 86 acres of natural bushland. Unlike zoos with tight enclosures, Cleland focuses on open, spacious environments where animals can roam more freely, creating a more authentic experience for visitors.

During your roughly three hours here, you’ll explore trails that weave through the bush, with plenty of opportunities to spot animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Many guests comment on how well-maintained and clean the park is, with staff dedicated to the animals’ health and well-being. One reviewer noted, “The animals could interact with humans but also had areas free from humans,” which is a big plus for those who value ethical wildlife care.

Feeding Kangaroos, Wallabies, and Potoroos

One of the main highlights is the chance to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies using the provided animal food. These animals are surprisingly gentle and curious, allowing for memorable photos and close-up interactions. As one reviewer shared, “Feeding the kangaroos… they are so gentle,” making it clear that this is a highlight for many visitors. The large kangaroos are friendly and even allow strokes, though the smaller joeys can be shy.

Koala Encounters: Close-up and Photo Opportunities

The park offers a dedicated Koala ‘close-up’ experience, where you can meet and photograph these cuddly creatures. Many reviewers describe this as a “dream come true,” with some noting that it’s best to reserve koala hold tickets early because they often sell out. For an extra fee, you can also hold a koala, which is a rare chance to cuddle this iconic Australian animal. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making these moments both fun and educational.

Other Wildlife: Echidnas, Tasmanian Devils, and Snakes

Beyond the big names, the park is home to wombats, emus, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and even snakes. Several visitors mention how the park’s diverse collection allows for a comprehensive look at Australian fauna. One said, “The park was spread out and animals looked healthy and happy,” emphasizing the quality of the habitat.

The Mt. Lofty Summit: Panoramic Views of Adelaide

After a good dose of wildlife, the tour heads back toward the city, stopping briefly at Mt. Lofty Summit. Sitting at about 710 meters, it’s the highest point in the Adelaide Hills. The views are spectacular — you’ll see uninterrupted vistas of Adelaide and the coastline stretching along Gulf St. Vincent. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a quick stretch after all the walking.

Many reviewers appreciated this stop, with one calling it “an amazing panoramic view,” despite some noting that weather conditions can limit visibility, especially if rain or clouds roll in. Still, even on a cloudy day, the experience of standing at the summit is worth it.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transport in an air-conditioned minivan, which keeps the trip comfortable, especially during warmer months. Pickup from Adelaide city hotels adds to the convenience, removing the need for travelers to navigate public transport or find meeting points. The timing is well-structured, with the group departing around 10:00 am, spending about three hours at Cleland, and then heading to Mt. Lofty for about 15 minutes. The overall duration is approximately 5 hours, striking a good balance between seeing wildlife and enjoying scenic views without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Personal Experience

Limited to 13 travelers, the tour ensures a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from guides. Many reviewers mention how guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insightful facts about the animals and the region. Several mention how guides made the experience fun and informative, adding value beyond just the scenery and animals.

Cost and Value

At around $89 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all fees are included, and there’s a focus on genuine, interactive experiences. Guests often comment on how the price is justified by the quality of encounters and the convenience of transportation.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that most visitors find this tour to be a highlight of their Adelaide trip. One said, “Feeding the kangaroos was unforgettable,” and another raved, “Close-up with a koala called Florence was a treat.” Several reviewers appreciated the relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with some mentioning how their guides made extra efforts to ensure everyone had a memorable day.

A few less enthusiastic comments mentioned long queues for koala experiences, especially during peak seasons or hot days, so booking early is advised if that’s a priority. Weather can also impact some experiences, but the staff is attentive to animal welfare and will cancel experiences if conditions aren’t suitable.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded, intimate glimpse into Australia’s unique wildlife and stunning scenery. It’s best suited for families, wildlife lovers, and casual travelers looking for an easy, enjoyable day out. The small group size guarantees more personal attention, and the inclusive price means no hidden surprises.

If you’re after genuine animal encounters — especially the chance to pet and feed kangaroos and hold a koala — this tour delivers. The scenic stop at Mt. Lofty adds a scenic contrast, giving you great photo opportunities and a break from the wildlife.

However, for those seeking an extended wildlife adventure or more rugged outdoor activities, this 5-hour experience might feel a bit limited. Still, it’s a fantastic introduction to Australian animals and landscapes that provides excellent value, friendly guides, and memorable moments.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees for Cleland Wildlife Park, the koala ‘close-up’ experience, animal food, and round-trip transport are included.

Can I hold a koala during this tour?
Yes, but you need to book the koala hold experience directly with Cleland in advance, as it sells out quickly.

How long do we spend at Cleland Wildlife Park?
Approximately 3 hours are allocated at the park, allowing enough time to explore, feed animals, and enjoy interactive experiences.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Adelaide city hotels are provided, making the day convenient for travelers staying in the city.

What should I wear?
Dressing appropriately for the weather is advised. The park is shaded, so a light jacket or hat might be useful, especially in cooler months.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, reviews mention children of all ages enjoying the animal encounters and the relaxed atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if conditions threaten animal welfare or safety, some experiences like koala holding may be canceled.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 51 days in advance, especially if you want to secure the koala experience.

In summary, this small-group tour from Adelaide combines the charm of Australia’s native animals with breathtaking views, all in a hassle-free, well-organized package. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking fun, or a traveler wanting a relaxed experience, it’s a memorable way to connect with the natural beauty of South Australia.