If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with Australia’s unique wildlife in a peaceful, natural setting, then Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park is the place to be. Located just 50 minutes from Melbourne on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable wildlife experience—especially for those looking to connect with Australia’s fascinating creatures in a more intimate and relaxed setting.
What makes Moonlit Sanctuary stand out is its nocturnal tours and the emphasis on conservation. The park is a safe haven for animals at risk, and it plays a key role in breeding programs and wildlife education. This is a place where you can learn about Australia’s incredible biodiversity and how we can all play a part in protecting these precious species.
Moonlit Sanctuary’s Famous Nocturnal Tours
One of the most unique aspects of Moonlit Sanctuary is its Nocturnal Tour, which allows visitors to see Australia’s night-dwelling animals in action. After dark, the park transforms into a haven for nocturnal creatures that are otherwise hidden during the day. The guided nocturnal tours are a highlight for many, and it’s a truly magical experience.
- Sugar Gliders: These small, tree-dwelling marsupials are known for their ability to glide from tree to tree. At night, they’re much more active, and it’s amazing to see them gliding through the air, especially when you’re in the quiet of the sanctuary under the stars.
- Bats: Australia is home to several species of fruit bats, and Moonlit Sanctuary has a special area dedicated to them. You’ll see these fascinating creatures up close as they forage for food and spread their wings in the cool night air.
- Spotting Bilbies: The nocturnal bilby is a rare and endangered species, and Moonlit Sanctuary is involved in the conservation of these little marsupials. The night tours give you a rare opportunity to see them scurrying around in their burrows and foraging in the dark.
- Pygmy Possums: These tiny, cute creatures are only active at night. They are one of the many animals you’ll likely encounter during your night tour, which will give you an insight into their behavior and habitat.
Moonlit Sanctuary’s Day Tours
Even if you’re not able to visit at night, there’s plenty to see and do during the day at Moonlit Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers a range of interactive experiences that allow you to get up close with Australia’s most beloved animals.
- Koala Encounters: Get a photo with a koala in their natural habitat. While you can’t hold them (for their health and safety), you can get a great shot and learn all about these adorable marsupials. At Moonlit, you’ll see them resting peacefully in the trees or, if you’re lucky, eating eucalyptus leaves.
- Kangaroo Feeding: Moonlit Sanctuary has a large free-roaming area where kangaroos and wallabies wander around the park. Visitors are encouraged to feed them (with food provided by the park), giving you the chance to get close and interact with these iconic Aussie animals. Just be ready to be charmed by their gentle nature!
- Wombat Meet & Greet: Wombats are some of the cutest, most endearing creatures around, and at Moonlit Sanctuary, you can watch them in action. These nocturnal, burrowing marsupials are always a hit with visitors of all ages. If you’re lucky, you might catch a wombat digging or scurrying around its enclosure.
- Birdwatching: If you’re into birdlife, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to spot some of Australia’s most beautiful and colourful species. Moonlit Sanctuary is home to a variety of native birds, including vibrant parrots, kookaburras, and cockatoos. The park’s open spaces and aviaries make it an ideal place for birdwatching.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Moonlit Sanctuary offers something truly special for animal lovers and families alike. Whether you’re strolling through the park during the day to meet kangaroos and koalas or experiencing the magic of nocturnal creatures under the stars, the sanctuary provides an enriching, immersive experience that’s both educational and fun. The emphasis on conservation and the opportunity to interact with some of Australia’s most unique animals make this a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula.
