5 Epic Wildlife Stops Between Adelaide and Melbourne You Can’t Miss

Australia’s diverse wildlife is one of its most captivating features, and the route from Adelaide to Melbourne provides the perfect opportunity to encounter it up close. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the creatures that call Australia home, this wildlife road trip promises unforgettable encounters along the way. Here’s a breakdown of the must-see spots.

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Cleland Wildlife Park, Adelaide

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Start your journey at Cleland Wildlife Park, where you can walk among kangaroos, wallabies, and emus in their natural habitat. Don’t miss the chance to cuddle a koala and get close to some of Australia’s most iconic species.

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Naracoorte Caves National Park

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As you leave Adelaide, venture into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves. While the caves themselves are spectacular, the surrounding area offers opportunities to spot bats, native reptiles, and birdlife.

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Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

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Located just outside Warrnambool, Tower Hill is a dormant volcano and a wildlife haven. Enjoy self-guided walks where you’re likely to encounter emus, kangaroos, and koalas in their natural habitat.

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Great Ocean Road Wildlife Encounters

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On your drive along the famous Great Ocean Road, stop by areas like Kennett River for excellent koala spotting and at Loch Ard Gorge for breathtaking coastal scenery mixed with native seabirds and penguins.

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Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne

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Finish your trip in Melbourne with a visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo. This African-style safari park offers a different perspective on wildlife, letting you see giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a sprawling open environment.

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A wildlife road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. The journey takes you through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, where kangaroos, koalas, and diverse birdlife thrive in their natural habitats. Along the way, the combination of national parks, coastal vistas, and wildlife reserves makes each stop a memorable encounter with Australia’s remarkable biodiversity. Whether you’re snapping photos of kangaroos at sunrise or walking among koalas, this route promises to connect you deeply with the natural wonders of the region.

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