Cleland Wildlife Park Experience – from Adelaide including Mt Lofty Summit

If you’re planning a trip to Adelaide and looking for a way to get close to Australia’s iconic animals while soaking in panoramic views, this tour really hits the spot. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-rounded, personable, and family-friendly experience.

What I love about this tour is the intimate nature of the small group, which makes the experience more relaxed and personalized. Plus, visiting the open and spacious Cleland Wildlife Park, where animals roam freely in lush, natural settings, offers a much more authentic encounter than traditional zoo visits. On the flip side, the tour’s timing and weather-dependent activities, like the koala hold, might mean some attractions are more limited on certain days.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want to combine wildlife encounters with scenic sightseeing without spending a whole day on it. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about native animals, like kangaroos and koalas, in a friendly setting, and want beautiful views of Adelaide from Mount Lofty as part of the package.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group limited to 13 travelers means more one-on-one attention and less rushing.
• Wildlife Encounters: Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, see koalas, wombats, emus, and even Tasmanian devils in a naturalistic setting.
• Scenic Highlights: The Mt. Lofty Summit offers sweeping views of Adelaide and the coast, great for photos and a breath of fresh air.
• Value for Money: All entrance fees and a bag of animal food are included, making it a straightforward, cost-effective outing.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup mean you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: Some activities like the koala hold are weather-sensitive, especially if temperatures soar above 32°C.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Tour

This tour is a thoughtful blend of wildlife discovery and scenic sightseeing. Starting from Adelaide, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point and whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The journey itself is part of the fun—relaxing, with opportunities to get some insights about Adelaide and the surrounding region from your guide.

Cleland Wildlife Park: The Heart of the Experience

Once at Cleland Wildlife Park, you’ll step into an environment designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats. Covering 86 acres, the park provides an open, spacious area where friendly kangaroos and wallabies wander freely. This setting is a major plus—it’s a more authentic, less cage-y experience compared to conventional zoos.

Many reviews point out how much visitors appreciated how clean and well-maintained the park is. You’ll find plenty of walking paths that make exploring easy, even with children or if you’re just taking it slow. The park hosts over 130 species, and staff are on hand to give insightful keeper talks. These are great opportunities to learn about the animals, their behaviors, and conservation efforts.

Feeding and Close Encounters

One of the big highlights is the chance to feed some of the animals. You’ll receive a bag of animal food, which means you can interact directly, feeding kangaroos, wallabies, and potoroos. Several reviews highlight how gentle and approachable the kangaroos are, with visitors describing the experience as “lovely” and “memorable.”

The opportunity to see koalas up close is another major draw. Although some reviews mention that koala viewing can be limited, the chance to get a “close-up” or hold a koala (if you book in advance for the koala hold experience) makes it worthwhile. Just keep in mind that koala experiences are weather-sensitive and may be canceled if temperatures rise too high or due to animal welfare concerns.

The Summit of Mt. Lofty: A View Worth the Short Stop

After your time at Cleland, you’ll head to Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic views of Adelaide and beyond. Sitting at about 710 meters, this is the highest point in the Adelaide Hills. The views are often described as beautiful, providing perfect photo opportunities and a refreshing break from the busy wildlife park.

While some reviews note that weather can obscure the scenery—particularly if it’s rainy or foggy—most find the vistas to be well worth the short stop. It’s a quick 15-minute visit, but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to the sweeping views of the coastline and city.

The Value of This Tour

At around $89 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering all the included features: entrance fees, animal food, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a small-group setting. Unlike larger, less personal tours, this one emphasizes quality over quantity, giving you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Many travelers comment on the professionalism and friendliness of the guides—mentioning that guides like Mike make the day extra enjoyable by sharing useful tips and interesting facts. The group size cap at 13 ensures a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for snapping photos, asking questions, and really engaging with the environment.

What You’ll Get for Your Money

• Hands-on animal experiences including feeding and, if booked in advance, holding a koala.
• Educational keeper talks giving insights into the animals’ habits and conservation.
• Breathtaking views from Mount Lofty Summit with minimal crowding.
• Comfortable, hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off options.
• All entrance fees included, so no hidden costs.

This is real value for those interested in Australian wildlife and scenic vistas without the hassle of organizing separate tickets or transportation.

How the Itinerary Looks in Practice

The tour kicks off at a set time around 10:00 am, with pick-up from Adelaide City hotels. The drive to Cleland Wildlife Park takes roughly an hour, but it’s an easy, scenic ride where your guide will fill you in on local sights. Once at the park, you’ll spend approximately three hours wandering around, engaging with the animals, and learning from staff.

You might find the highlight is feeding kangaroos and wallabies, which many reviews describe as “gentle” and “friendly.” The opportunity to meet Florence, the cute koala, and even see a wombat or Tasmanian devil, is often highlighted as memorable.

Post-lunch, your group will head to Mount Lofty for about 15 minutes. Here, you can take photos, soak in the views, and enjoy the fresh mountain air before returning to Adelaide.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more enriching with their insights. Most mention that the guides are friendly, helpful, and eager to share interesting facts about the animals and the region. The small group size clearly enhances this personal touch.

Many travelers also love how natural and open the park feels, with animals roaming freely and interactions that feel genuine rather than staged. The chance to feed kangaroos and wallabies seems to be a favorite feature—”feeding the kangaroos. They are so gentle,” as one review notes.

While some mention limited koala viewing or that the koala hold can sell out early, most agree that planning ahead for this part makes a big difference. The weather plays a role here—hot days might restrict certain experiences.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Book koala experiences early, if you want to hold or get close-up photos with koalas, especially during busy seasons or holidays.
• Dress appropriately for the weather—the park is mostly shaded, but it can get chilly, especially in cooler months.
• Bring a picnic or plan to buy at the café—there are options available, and many find it a relaxing way to enjoy the day.
• Allow at least 3 hours at Cleland to explore fully without feeling rushed, with additional time for Mt. Lofty.
• Prepare for weather changes—the tour operates in all conditions, but some activities may be limited by temperature or weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wildlife lovers, families, or anyone wanting a genuine connection with Australian animals in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for those who value personalized attention and appreciate scenic viewpoints. If you’re traveling with children, feeding and close-up animal encounters tend to be hits, but check weather conditions if you’re keen on holding a koala.

Those not keen on long walks or with mobility concerns might find the park terrain manageable, but be prepared for some walking on uneven paths. The tour’s flexible timing and inclusive pricing make it accessible for most travelers wanting a comprehensive half-day adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Adelaide City hotels are offered, making the day convenient and stress-free.

How long is the visit at Cleland Wildlife Park?
You’ll spend about 3 hours exploring the park, which is enough time to see most animals, feed the friendly kangaroos, and enjoy keeper talks.

Can I hold a koala?
Koala holding experiences are available if booked directly through Cleland and generally sell out quickly. Weather can also affect the availability of this activity.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather—comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and a light jacket is good for cooler mornings or evenings.

Are all activities weather-dependent?
Yes, some experiences, like the koala hold, depend on weather and animal welfare conditions. The tour operates in all weather, but certain activities may be canceled in extreme heat or rain.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s friendly for families, with plenty of opportunities for kids to interact with animals and enjoy the scenic views.

What is included in the price?
All entrance fees, a bag of animal food, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the guided tour are included. Lunch is not, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and fun way to experience some of Australia’s most beloved wildlife while enjoying scenic mountain views, this tour offers a lot. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small-group settings, genuine animal encounters, and scenic photography. The honest reviews reflect a well-organized outing that delivers on its promises—friendly guides, open and natural animal habitats, and stunning vistas.

While the weather or activity availability can vary, planning ahead—especially for the koala experience—will maximize your enjoyment. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Adelaide’s natural charm without feeling rushed or crowded.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring your camera—and maybe some snacks for the animals!