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Where the Wild Things REALLY Are - That's South Australia
Where can you experience the breath of a Lion, the stealth of a Shark, the playfulness of a Sea Lion, the speed of a Tuna and the uniqueness of Aussie stars, the Koala, Kangaroo and Emu? South Australia, that's where.
Feel like a wild wildlife adventure or five?
We've put together our top picks of the most adrenaline packed, unique and sometimes cuddly wildlife experiences, all found in the amazing ocean lined nature reserve that is South Australia.
1. Lions 360
Swap sides with the awe-inspiring King of the Jungle as you get in the cage to let one of Australia's largest lion prides get a good look at you - from outside the enclosure. You'll be (very safely) within clawing range of these awe inspiring animals as they wander above and around you, showing off their majestic beauty and fierce instincts. Make a day of it by exploring all the amazing animals on display at Monarto - the largest open-air zoo in Australia.
Meet the Lions from just $95
2. Shark Cage Diving
Get ready for a heart racing, leg shaking, memory making experience like no other. A huge day on and in the Southern Ocean will take you south of Port Lincoln to the land (or sea) or the Great White Sharks. Here, you'll put on your wetsuit, get your camera ready, descend into the cage........and then........boo!
Do it now!
Get on board from just $495
3. Swim with Sea Lions
Swim, twirl, splash and maybe even nose-kiss with the "puppies of the sea". The gorgeous, interactive sea lions take great delight in visitors to their patch and are great at posing for the camera. So get your (waterproof) camera ready, because you're going to become VERY snap happy.
And then try wipe the smile off your face for a month or so.
Feel the love from just $195
4. Swim with Tuna
They don't call them "The Ferraris of the Sea" for nothing. You'll be totally blown away by the speed, power and accuracy of the huge Blue Fin Tunas as you swim amongst them in a purpose built pontoon.
Feed them from your hand for a real buzz!
Jump in from $85
5. Feed and Cuddle the Aussie Wildlife Stars
Time for some warm and fuzzy feels. Head up to the beautiful Adelaide Hills to the perfectly situated Cleland Wildlife Park and get all gooey when you feed the koalas, chill with the kangaroo and feel the surprising exhiliration of offering an emu a snack - from the palm of your hand.
Don't close your eyes.
Cleland Wildlife Park offers YHA members a very generous 20% off park entry
Nearby Hostels
From $25 per night
Adelaide Central YHA
Located right in the centre of the city, Adelaide Central YHA backpacker hostel is only a 7-minute walk to Adelaide Central Market and a short bus ride to Adelaide Festival Centre and Adelaide Zoo.
From $32 per night
Port Elliot YHA
Great Port Elliot Beach Accommodation! Port Elliot Beach House YHA, on South Australia's spectacular Fleurieu Peninsula, is in a breezy, historic building.
From $30 per night
Port Lincoln YHA
Port Lincoln YHA is based in an adventure-lover's paradise. Whether it's shark cage diving, swimming with tuna or sea lions or maybe a surf or a swim, this hostel can deliver!
YHA is a member of Hostelling International