If you’re searching for an authentic Australian animal encounter, visiting The Kangaroo Sanctuary near Alice Springs is an absolute must! Nestled in the heart of the Red Centre, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with Australia’s most iconic wildlife in a special way.
Although you can spot wild kangaroos bounding through the outback, nothing compares to cradling a baby joey as it gazes up at you with doe-like eyes. These encounters go beyond a regular wildlife experience, letting you build a connection and create cherished memories for a lifetime.
Revisiting Roo Haven
I first visited The Kangaroo Sanctuary back in September 2016, and the experience left a lasting impression. So when my sister came over from NZ recently, it seemed the perfect opportunity for a return trip, and a unique birthday treat for her.
The sanctuary’s shuttle bus picked us up at a nearby hotel (one of eight pick-up spots), and whisked us off to a peaceful haven just outside of Alice Springs.
Upon arrival Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, greeted us with a couple of adorable joeys in tow. Brolga’s passion for kangaroos is infectious, and his deep knowledge makes the visit not just an experience but an education. His nickname, Brolga, came from an Aboriginal friend who saw a resemblance to the tall, long-legged bird. He has dedicated his life to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured kangaroos.
The Sanctuary’s Mission and History
In 2011, while Brolga lived in the bush in a tin shack with his kangaroo family, the BBC UK approached him. They asked if he’d consider making a documentary about his work with these remarkable creatures. Brolga saw it as a chance to raise awareness about kangaroos orphaned by highway accidents and to promote kindness towards animals, so he agreed. The result was the acclaimed series Kangaroo Dundee, aired worldwide and highlighting his tireless efforts.
The sanctuary is home to kangaroos of all ages, from tiny joeys still learning to hop, to larger roos nearly ready for release back into the wild. During our tour, we had the privilege of holding one of the joeys, a sweet little roo named Katy-Lou. Nestled in a makeshift pouch, she was all soft fur, wide eyes, and oversized ears – absolutely surreal and lovely. She even licked my upper arm – awwww! 🥰
Touring the Kangaroo Sanctuary
The Kangaroo Sanctuary primarily houses red kangaroos, the largest marsupials in the world, and can weigh up to 90 kg. Roger the Kangaroo a prior resident at the sanctuary, was the pinup kangaroo for this stat. He stood at an impressive 2m and 91kg, and was world famous for his buff physique!
We learned about the kangaroo’s life cycle, and how to care for an injured roo if found in the mother’s pouch after a roadside accident. Sadly, this is a common occurrence in Australia, as kangaroos are most active at night and can suddenly jump in front of vehicles on outback roads.
After my own recent IVF journey, I was especially fascinated by the reproductive abilities of female kangaroos. They can raise three joeys simultaneously – one on foot and still needing milk, one in the pouch, and one in the womb. Absolutely amazingly, she can produce three unique kinds of milk to suit the needs of each joey!
Not only that, but female kangaroos can pause their pregnancy if conditions aren’t ideal, resuming the development of the embryo when the timing is better. It’s truly incredible how nature has equipped them with such resilience and adaptability!
Wallaroos are a type of mountain kangaroo, that are similar in appearance to red kangaroos. They are smaller in size, stockier and a bit fluffier. You’ll most often find black and antilopine wallaroos in the Northern Territory, where they stand around 75 cm to 140 cm tall. I often see them around Olive Pink Botanic Garden eastern hill area around sunset.
A Memorable Experience in a Natural Haven
As we walked leisurely, we occasionally fed, patted, and took photos of the kangaroos. If you’ve never touched a kangaroo, they’re much softer than you’d think, with fur similar to a cat’s. (Please note, don’t approach or touch wild kangaroos; they can be very aggressive.)
Brolga eagerly shared his knowledge, answered any and all questions. I think we were all amazed with his passion of these animals. Some would bound up to him, and he would know them by first glance.
The sanctuary’s setting is a sprawling 188-acre enclosure, creating a vast and natural environment where the kangaroos live in harmony. This expansive space is dedicated to the rehabilitation of kangaroos, with the ultimate aim of reintroducing them to the wild. Some kangaroos stay at the sanctuary if too bonded with humans or other factors that make them less suited for life in the wild.
Back when I first visited The Kangaroo Sanctuary in 2016, I had the pleasure of holding a joey named Sebastian. He was just a bundle of soft fur, gentle eyes, and a curious nature that melted me. Fast forward to my recent visit, I asked Brolga about him, and he pointed him out! It was absolutely wonderful to Sebastian all grown up and enjoying all the space and peace of the sanctuary.
There’s also a dedicated rescue centre on-site for injured and orphaned kangaroos. People can also donate and/or sponsor a roo!
Important Details:
- Location: The Sanctuary is about 11 km south of Alice Springs, near the airport.
- Visiting: You directly book via their website. The tours are on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Starting just before sunset when the kangaroos are most active.
- Tour Length: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Booking: It’s essential to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly. The cost is $105 per adult and $95 for children aged 7-17.
- Attire: Wear enclosed shoes and bring water and a hat.
- Group Size: They’re limited to ensure a good experience for both guests and animals. I think we had around 12 people on ours.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Red Centre, The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs offers an experience that’s truly unforgettable. Whether it’s your first visit or a cherished return, the chance to bond with these remarkable kangaroos creates ‘hoppy’ memories that last a lifetime!
Lore & Tempo is where motherhood meets adventure. I’m Ren – storyteller, explorer, and single mum in Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through 45 countries. 15 of them with my +1, Kaydes, either strapped to my front, on my hip, or running ahead on her own adventures. I created this space to share single parent life, travel tips, and the joy of exploring the world.
