The Kangaroo Sanctuary

The basics

The site was founded in 2005 and expanded from a small rescue center for orphaned baby kangaroos to a wildlife sanctuary in 2011 that includes adult kangaroos. Central Australia’s first wildlife hospital was built on the site in 2015. Covering 188 acres (76 hectares), the sanctuary’s mission is to rehabilitate and release kangaroos into the wild whenever possible.

On a guided sunset tour of the Kangaroo Sanctuary, visitors can get up close to Australia’s red kangaroos. Travelers walk the grounds and meet many kangaroos while learning about their care. You may even have the opportunity to hold a baby, called a joey. Tours are typically run by Brolga or occasionally by other guides, and numbers are limited to keep it to a small group. Private tours are also available for groups of students, family, or friends.

Things to know before you go

• The sanctuary is a must-see attraction for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Alice Springs.
• Tours run about 2.5–3 hours and can only be booked in advance; they sell out fast.
• Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring bottled water; don’t forget a camera. The walk around the sanctuary is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.

How to get there

The site is located in the Northern Territory, just outside Alice Springs. To ensure the protection of this natural habitat in the Outback, self-driving to the sanctuary is not permitted. Round-trip transfers are provided with the tour; buses shuttle visitors directly from several accommodations.

When to get there

Tours of the Kangaroo Sanctuary run regularly throughout the week from February through November. It is typically closed to visitors during December and January. Tours are rarely canceled, but inclement weather may temporarily close the sanctuary. Booking cancellations should be made at least seven days prior to your tour.

To the rescue

Brolga began rescuing orphaned baby kangaroos from the pouches of dead kangaroos—often those hit by vehicles. Any kangaroo lying on the roadside should be safely approached. Cupping hands under a joey, placing it in a shirt or loose bag that mimics the mother’s pouch, and holding it close for warmth will help it survive before getting it to the closest vet or trained wildlife carer.