Wings Wildlife Park Shuttle, Burnie Shore Excursion

If you’re heading to Burnie and looking for a way to connect with Tasmania’s unique animals without breaking the bank, the Wings Wildlife Park shuttle offers a solid option. This tour promises a mix of scenic beauty, up-close animal interactions, and a smooth, self-guided visit to one of Tasmania’s top wildlife sanctuaries.

It’s especially appealing for nature lovers and families eager to see iconic creatures like kangaroos, wallabies, and Tasmanian Devils.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the beautiful scenic drive that takes you through the countryside and charming coastal villages, and the variety of wildlife encounters available—especially the chance to pet a koala or baby Tasmanian devil. For travelers with limited time and a budget-conscious mindset, this tour offers an authentic taste of Tasmania’s rich animal life.

A possible drawback to keep in mind is the duration of the visit at Wings Wildlife Park—most reviews mention that two hours can feel a little rushed given the number of animals and activities available. If you’re a dedicated animal enthusiast wanting a more leisurely experience, you might find this time short.

This excursion best suits visitors who want a convenient, guided transfer combined with a self-guided exploration of Tasmania’s wildlife. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenery, appreciate wildlife, and want some local insights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

Convenient transportation from the port ensures a stress-free outing.
Efficient timing gives you enough time to see the animals and enjoy the scenery.
Authentic animal encounters include opportunities to pet koalas and feed kangaroos.
Insightful staff and guides enhance understanding of Tasmania’s unique wildlife.
Good value for money considering the variety and quality of experiences.
Beautiful countryside views drive is a highlight, adding to the sense of adventure.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Scenic Drive to Wings Wildlife Park

The journey itself is part of the charm. Departing from the designated meeting point at 13 Wilmot St, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable shuttle that whisks you away through Tasmania’s lush countryside. The drive is often praised for its scenic quality—passing through rolling hills, small towns, and along the Leven River, which offers plenty of picture opportunities. Several reviews mention how the countryside views alone are worth the trip, with some describing the ride as “beautiful” and “interesting.”

Travel times are built into the total duration (about 3 hours 50 minutes), which allows for a relaxed schedule. The shuttle is direct, providing the convenience of transportation without the need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads. For those who dislike logistical hassles or want to maximize their time ashore, this aspect is a big boon.

Wings Wildlife Park: Up Close with Iconic Animals

Once at Wings Wildlife Park, the real fun begins. With over 150 animal species, the park’s natural, well-landscaped setting allows guests to see Tasmanian natives such as devils, wombats, and quokkas, along with kangaroos and parrots. Many visitors rave about the “wonderful opportunities to interact” — feeding kangaroos, walking among them, and even paying extra to cuddle a baby Tasmanian devil or pet a koala. One reviewer happily commented, “I petted a koala—it was surprisingly soft,” highlighting how memorable these encounters can be.

The park’s mission to protect and rehabilitate injured and orphaned animals adds a meaningful dimension to your visit. Many reviews mention the cleanliness of the facilities and the well-cared-for animals, making it clear that Wings is committed to conservation, not just display.

Animal Encounters and Education

This trip is more than just looking at animals—it’s about understanding them. Guides and staff share insights into the species’ behaviors and conservation challenges, enhancing the educational value. For example, some guests mention the informative oral presentations that help deepen their appreciation for Tasmania’s unique fauna.

The opportunity to feed kangaroos by hand and walk amongst them is a highlight, often described as “the best memory of Australia.” Some note that additional experiences—like cradling a baby Tasmanian devil—are cost extra, but well worth the price for the unforgettable moments.

Food, Shopping, and Relaxation

While the main focus is on wildlife, Wings Wildlife Park also offers a café where visitors can enjoy Tasmanian delicacies, adding a relaxing break to the busy wildlife interactions. There’s also a souvenir shop with Tasmanian gifts—a great chance to take home a keepsake, whether it’s a plush kangaroo or local crafts.

The Return Journey and Overall Timing

Back on the shuttle, the return trip is straightforward. Reviews point out that timing can be tight — some visitors wished for a bit more time at the park. One review noted, “We only had about an hour and a half, and wished it was longer,” which suggests planning ahead for the most relaxed experience.

The shuttle drops guests back at the port, ensuring you’re ready for your ship’s departure. This organized, hassle-free process is a big plus, especially for cruise travelers keen to maximize their shore time without stress.

Analyzing Value and Practicality

At $89.66 per person, including transportation and entry, the tour offers considerable value, particularly given the quality of animal interactions and scenic drive. Reviews consistently mention that the experience exceeds expectations and is well worth the price, especially for wildlife lovers and families.

The self-guided nature at Wings allows visitors to explore at their own pace, which is ideal for those who prefer flexibility. The small group size (max 50 travelers) helps maintain a personal, relaxed atmosphere.

However, the time limitation at the park is a recurring theme—many find that two hours fly by and wish they had more time to explore every corner. If you’re a dedicated enthusiast or traveling with kids who want to take things slow, consider arriving early or planning additional time outside the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This shore excursion is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts who want a convenient, affordable introduction to Tasmania’s native animals. It’s also perfect for families, thanks to its interactive nature and manageable schedule. If you value scenic drives, animal encounters, and educational insights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Travelers looking for a luxurious or lengthy experience might feel it’s a bit rushed, but for those who want a taste of Tasmania’s wildlife without fuss, it’s quite the good deal. If accessibility is a concern, note that the tour’s transportation requires guests to be able to walk onto the bus—something to verify before booking if mobility is limited.

Final Thoughts

The Wings Wildlife Park shuttle in Burnie offers a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s famous wildlife, combined with scenic views and straightforward logistics. The animal encounters—from petting koalas to feeding kangaroos—are genuinely memorable, and the drive through the countryside adds to the experience. With support from friendly, knowledgeable staff, it’s a great way to connect with local wildlife without the stress of planning.

While the time at the park can be tight, most visitors find it enough to enjoy the highlights and take plenty of photos. The tour balances value and authenticity, especially for those with a limited schedule but big animal-loving hearts.

If you’re seeking a fun, educational, and scenic half-day in Burnie that leaves you with stories and souvenirs, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s especially recommended for families and travelers eager to see Tasmania’s iconic creatures in a caring, well-organized environment.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the shuttle transports you from the port to Wings Wildlife Park and back, making it a convenient option.

How long do I have at Wings Wildlife Park?
Most reviews mention about two hours at the park, which is enough for animal encounters and exploring, but some wish it was longer.

Can I pet the animals?
Yes, there are opportunities to pet koalas, cuddle baby Tasmanian devils (for an extra fee), and feed kangaroos by hand.

Are the encounters with animals included in the price?
Standard entry is included, but specific animal encounters like cuddling a Tasmanian devil or petting a koala are extra charges.

What kind of scenery will I see on the drive?
Expect beautiful views of Tasmania’s countryside, including rolling hills, small towns, and the Leven River, making the journey part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids generally love the animal encounters, and the short duration makes it manageable for young travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The reviews note that weather can affect your plans—particularly wind or rain can cause cancellations or shorten visits. Check the forecast and be flexible.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at around $89.66 per person, which many reviewers find reasonable given the quality of the experience.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Guests need to be able to walk onto the bus. No wheelchair lifts are available, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to book early, especially during peak cruise seasons, as it tends to sell out quickly.

In short, the Wings Wildlife Park shuttle in Burnie offers a meaningful, scenic, and fun way to spend part of your port day. With engaging animal encounters, scenic drives, and good value, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see Tasmania’s animals in a caring environment. Just remember to plan for the timing and be prepared for a busy but rewarding visit.