Amazing Wildlife Experiences to Have in The Stunning Tasmania Off Season


Tasmania is stunning in any season but despite the chill, the Tasmania off season is particularly special. Although the Tasmania off season is officially Winter (June to August), the chill often begins before this and lingers afterward. This is the perfect time to play in the snow, breathe the pristine air, gather around a blazing fire, go on an adventure, and experience some of Tassie’s cute wildlife.

Speaking of adventures and wildlife, here are three amazing wildlife experiences that can be had in the Tasmania off season.

Jump on Board a Dog Sled

Just one hour south of Hobart in the stunning Huon Valley, Sled Dog Adventures offers dryland dog sledding tours during the Tasmania off season. From May through to September, enjoy a run through a temperate forest behind a team of eight-ten Siberian Huskies. To clarify, you won’t need to actually run … the dogs will do this for you!

In addition, you will learn about the history of the kennel and enjoy a hot drink around a warm campfire. No snow is required for this doggy adventure!

The dog sled tour will cost around $85 per person.

Enjoy Wombats and Wine on Maria Island

At a time when the island is chill and at its most tranquil, Maria Island combines two of the best … wombats and wine! During the day, embark on guided walks where you will spot wombats and learn about the history of Maria Island. In the evening, enjoy a glass of wine from a local maker by a roaring fire and settle into your accommodation at the beautifully restored Bernacchi House. This rare, heritage-listed house dates back to 1880!

A three-day/two-night Tasmania off season package can be booked at www.mariaislandwalk.com.au with prices starting from around $1490. Prices are inclusive of guided tours, accommodation, and meals.

tasmania off season
Baby wombat on Maria Island
Credit – Ben Brown

Visit The Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary

Located on the edge of the Cradle Mountain National Park World Heritage area, Devils@Cradle is a breeding and conservation facility for three of Tasmania’s unique threatened carnivorous marsupials; the Tasmanian Devil, the Spotted Tail Quoll, and the Eastern Quoll.

During the Tasmania off season, book into the 4pm Joey encounter tour to meet some of the youngest residents in the animal nursery and experience a bush hut, campfire, and marshmallows. Other tours are also available including ”Day Keeper Tours” and ”Feeding Tours”. A visit in the evening will see you observing the fascinating night-time antics of the animals being fed.

Admission to Devils@Cradle cost $25 per adult and $15 per child. Family prices are available, beginning at $75 for two adults and two children.

tasmania off season
Devils @ Cradle
Credit – Laura Helle

Pssst – If you’re heading to Devils@Cradle in the Tasmania off season, make sure to do the Dove Lake Circuit Walk. It’s stunning!


Looking for more awesome family holiday destinations?


For more information on visiting Tassie with kids, browse our Tasmania page. Alternatively, head back to the home page for inspiration on destinations and activities in Australia and worldwide.

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Planning and booking your holiday to Tasmania


National Parks Pass:

A National Park entrance fee is required to visit most parks in Tasmania. You can buy a single-day pass or if you are exploring more of Tassie, an eight-week pass that gets a whole family into all of Tasmania’s National Parks is better value for money. Passes can be purchased here.

More information:

Check out the official Tourism Tasmania page for more information on great places to visit in Tasmania.

Getting to Tasmania:

Search on Trip.com for the best deals to Tasmania. Flights are available from most capital cities into either Hobart or Launceston.

Alternatively, you can also come across by boat on the Spirit of Tasmania.  If you choose to come across by boat, you can bring your own vehicle. 

Accommodation in Tasmania:

Accommodation in Tasmania is varied and there are options from budget to luxury. Find a great deal here.

Getting around Tasmania:

Compare rental car prices here.


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