Overview

Step back into Tasmania's colonial past and come face-to-face with the island's most iconic wildlife on this popular half-day tour combining historic Richmond village with the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Travel across the Tasman Bridge into the picturesque Coal River Valley to Richmond, a beautifully preserved colonial town of mellow stone cottages, Georgian mansions, and the oldest convict-built road bridge in Australia. After exploring the village's shops, galleries, cafes, and the historic Richmond Bridge, continue on to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in the Brighton Valley, where you'll get up close with Tasmania's native animals — including the endangered Tasmanian Devil (known as purinina in the Palawa Kani language). With hand-feeding, guided encounters, and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is a perfect blend of heritage and hands-on wildlife experience.



Itinerary


  1. Departure & Tasman Bridge Crossing – Set off and travel across the Tasman Bridge into the Coal River Valley, heading towards historic Richmond.
  2. Richmond Orientation Tour – On arrival, enjoy a short orientation tour of the village with your driver, learning about its colonial history and heritage.
  3. Explore Richmond Village – Stroll along the picturesque Coal River and through the main street, lined with restored stone cottages and Georgian buildings. Visit the historic Richmond Bridge, the oldest convict-built road bridge in Australia, and see the oldest operating Catholic Church in the country.
  4. Free Time in Richmond – Browse local shops and galleries for unique gifts and souvenirs, and take the chance to taste some local produce at one of the village's cafes or restaurants.
  5. Travel to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary – Continue on to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in the Brighton Valley.
  6. Wildlife Encounter – Take part in an up-close encounter with the Tasmanian Devil and other native Tasmanian animals, guided by the sanctuary's passionate team, who also run a successful Tasmanian Devil breeding program.
  7. Stroll the Sanctuary Grounds – Wander the grounds and hand-feed animals that roam free, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
  8. Return – Head back at the end of your wildlife and heritage-filled afternoon.


Things to Bring


  • Comfortable walking shoes for strolling through Richmond village and the sanctuary grounds
  • A camera or phone for photo opportunities with Richmond's colonial architecture and the sanctuary's wildlife
  • Cash or card for shopping at Richmond's galleries and gift shops, or for local produce at cafes and restaurants
  • Weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour includes outdoor walking in both the village and sanctuary