All Aboard The Mini Train To The Amazing Lost Valley At Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
”Can turtles really breathe out of their butts?” my son asks, as we check out the Eastern Long-Necked Turtles at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
”I have no idea, where did you hear that?” I reply laughing.
”Its true!” my daughter pipes up. ”Olaf says it on Frozen.”
”Um … lets google it, ok?”
We stand around the turtle habitat as I begin typing … Can turtles b … I don’t even have to finish the question. Apparently, its been searched many times before so google suggests the whole sentence for me … Can turtles breathe through their bums?
Press PLAY to follow us around the Sanctuary!
At this point, the kids are hysterically laughing. Google tells us the process is technically called cloacal respiration and it’s not really breathing, just kind of diffusing oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. Close enough for me!
”See, I told you!” my daughter says smugly.
We learned heaps of cool facts that day at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. The kids ran ahead from sign to sign reading all the interesting things about the many animals at the Sanctuary.
We all loved the mini train that at no extra charge, visitors can use to scoot between exhibits with ease when little legs get tired. I recommend riding it all the way to the Lost Valley, a beautiful sanctuary that time forgot.
Although you are free to wander around the park at your own pace, it’s great if you can time your visit to catch some of the exciting daily shows!
Catch The Awesome Daily Shows
Families can feed the lorikeets, check out the pelicans, meet Blinky Bill, learn about Australia’s fascinating reptiles and be amazed at the ”Wildskies” bird show. More information on the shows and times can be found >>HERE<< on the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary website.
Relax While The Kids Run Wild in The Island Adventure Splash Zone
The Wild Island Adventure Splash Zone is a great spot to break up the heat of the day! Set amongst beautiful sub-tropical flora and fauna, kids up to the age of 12 years can enjoy a range of timed water jets, streams and waterfalls to run through. This area also features the Wild Island Playground for kids to climb and explore.
Discover The Lost Valley
The Lost Valley is my personal favourite zone within the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctury. Featuring five acress of stunning rainforest with an elevated boardwalks that lead down into the ”valley” with a misty stream and unique wildlife and flora … It’s just beautiful! I fell in love with these endangered Red Pandas.
Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital
The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to one of the world busiest wildlife hospitals, taking in over 12,000 patients every year at no charge to the community.
2019 saw over 12,200 animals admitted, including 600 koalas! A visit to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is not complete without a visit to this wonderful hospital where families can witness the team care for and operate on the sick and injured animals.
Level Up Your Visit With an Animal Photo and Encounter
Hang out with the koalas before indulging in a high-tea, get up close and personal with the Red Panda’s in a VIP experience, walk a dingo, go behind the scenes and much more. These experiences would make a great gift for Christmas or birthdays!
For more information on visiting the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, please visit the Wildlife Sanctuary’s webpage. If you’re looking for more animal encounters on the Gold Coast, check out our Alpaca Picnic experience in the Gold Coast Hinterlands.
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Gold Coast family holiday resources
Best time to visit the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is really an all-year-round holiday destination. However, it gets pretty busy during the summer school holidays.
December to February sees tropical weather with more chance of rain. Many tout April and May as a great time to visit due to lower rainfall, but I personally find the ocean a bit too chilly at this time.
Where to stay
If staying in Burleigh Heads, Swell Resort is a fantastic option for families with roomy apartment-style offerings. The resort is set close to restaurants, only 100 metres from the beach. This is my top pick for the Gold Coast.
If staying in the Gold Coast Hinterlands, you can’t go past Binna Burra Lodge or O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Both offer a range of accommodations.
If you’re looking for a family resort with everything to occupy the kids, NRMA Treasure Island and Paradise Resort are top choices.
Those seeking luxury will love the Gold Coast Marriott or The Star.
Getting to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is located one hour south of Brisbane on the East Coast of Australia.
Both domestic and international flights service the Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. Find a great deal on Trip.com
The Gold Coast is connected by rail to Brisbane’s Roma Street and Central stations. There is also an AirTrain that runs a regular rail service taking around 90 minutes.
Getting around the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has an extensive bus service with over 60 routes within the city. If venturing to the Gold Coast Hinterlands, hiring a car is an excellent option if you don’t have your own.
Disclaimer – We visited the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Collaboration with Destination Gold Coast.