Wildlife & Nature Experiences
Mapleton Springs is ideally located near some of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s best wildlife attractions, rainforest walks and native animal encounters, including Australia Zoo, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and unique platypus experiences.
Discover the natural beauty and unique wildlife experiences of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. From rainforest walks and birdlife spotting to platypus habitats and peaceful nature encounters, the region offers unforgettable ways to connect with the outdoors.
Australia Zoo
World-famous wildlife encounters
Experience one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife attractions at Australia Zoo, home to koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Explore expansive habitats, interactive animal experiences and exciting wildlife shows while learning about conservation and the protection of native Australian wildlife.
Visitors can also observe the important work of the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured native wildlife.
Located within easy driving distance of Mapleton Springs, Australia Zoo combines perfectly with exploring the waterfalls, rainforest walks and villages of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Free-flight bird encounters
Discover vibrant aviaries and interactive bird experiences at Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, set amongst spectacular hinterland gardens overlooking the Glass House Mountains.
Visitors can encounter colourful parrots, macaws and a variety of exotic and native bird species while exploring beautifully landscaped gardens, lakes and rainforest surrounds.
With breathtaking escarpment views and peaceful walking paths, this unique attraction combines wildlife encounters with one of the Hinterland’s most picturesque garden settings.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Subtropical rainforest conservation
Discover one of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s most significant rainforest reserves at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. This protected subtropical rainforest offers peaceful walking tracks, exceptional birdlife spotting and panoramic views across the iconic Glass House Mountains.
Visitors can explore shaded rainforest trails filled with native plants, butterflies and wildlife while learning about the region’s unique ecosystem through the educational Rainforest Discovery Centre. The reserve is a favourite for nature lovers, photographers and visitors exploring nearby Maleny, rainforest walks and wildlife experiences throughout the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
With elevated escarpment views and abundant native birdlife, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve combines conservation, education and natural beauty in one unforgettable location.
Platypus Whisperer Tours
Rare platypus encounters
Experience one of Australia’s most unique wildlife encounters with guided platypus spotting tours through peaceful hinterland waterways. Learn about the habits and conservation of these elusive native animals while exploring quiet creek environments surrounded by rainforest and native birdlife.
Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a memorable Sunshine Coast Hinterland experience.
After experiencing the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s incredible wildlife and rainforest environments, unwind at Mapleton Springs with peaceful surrounds, hinterland views and relaxing adults-only accommodation.