Brisbane isn’t just a city – it’s a place where native landscapes and urban life intersect in unexpected ways. The region invites you to step outside the ordinary and into ecosystems teeming with life, from peaks and cliffs to island shores. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of spotting native fauna, adventure by the water, or moments of stillness in the wild, Brisbane’s natural offerings are as varied as they are immersive. So lace up your shoes, pack your sunscreen and let Brisbane’s natural side rejuvenate your soul.
Get up close with iconic wildlife
For a Brisbane nature experience that’s both hands-on and heartwarming, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit. The world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary offers a rare chance to engage directly with Australia’s native wildlife – you can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, watch platypuses glide through shaded pools, all while learning about conservation efforts. Lone Pine is more intimate and authentic than other wildlife attractions – it’s like stepping into a quiet bushland where the animals set the pace.
Immerse yourself in the gardens
Right in the heart of Brisbane, the historic City Botanic Gardens are rich in horticultural history and natural wonder. Established in 1828 as the Brisbane penal colony’s first farm, the City Botanic Gardens provide a tranquil river escape home to heritage, exotic and native plants and trees – many of which have been cultivated since the 19th century – as well as cycling paths, picnic spots and a duck pond. Nearby, Roma Street Parklands is a lush urban sanctuary spanning over 16 hectares. It’s one of the most artistically designed subtropic gardens in Australia, with paths that lead through rainforest pockets, flower beds and water features.
Climb the tallest mountain
Just 15 minutes from the city centre, Mt Coot-tha offers one of the most iconic nature activities in Brisbane. The summit lookout provides sweeping views of the city skyline, Moreton Bay and surrounding ranges. For those who love hiking, the Mt Coot-tha Reserve has over 70 walking and mountain biking trails winding through eucalyptus forests and creeks. The area is also home to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha (not to be confused with the City Botanic Gardens) which showcase a rich diversity of subtropic and tropical plant life across 56 hectares, including the Japanese Garden, Herb Garden and Cactus House.
Scale riverside cliffs
For a Brisbane nature activity that blends adrenaline with panoramic beauty, Kangaroo Point Cliffs delivers. These ancient volcanic rock faces are a magnet for climbers and abseilers who want to combine fitness and sightseeing. If climbing isn’t your thing, you can also soak up the natural beauty of the cliffs by walking the riverside path below, relaxing on the grassy terraces along the river or making the most of the vantage point to catch a spectacular sunset over the city.
Encounter marine life at nearby islands
Just off Brisbane’s Coast, the islands of Moreton, Bribie and North Stradbroke offer some of the region’s most exciting marine encounters. At Moreton Island you can catch sight of tropic fish and sea turtles as you snorkel through coral gardens. Bribie Island’s calm waters and creeks are ideal for spotting crabs, stingrays and birdlife. On North Stradbroke Island, dolphins cruise close to shore and manta rays and whales can be spotted from the headlands
Embark on your Brisbane nature activities with Airtrain
Airtrain offers a reliable, comfortable service that bypasses unexpected delays and helps make travel easier. With trains departing from Brisbane Airport every 15 minutes during peak times, you’ll enjoy a smooth journey to your destination.
Check out the Airtrain Journey Planner to plan your nature activities in Brisbane. With journeys from Brisbane Airport departing every 15 minutes during peak times and every 30 minutes off peak, you’ll be at your destination before you know it. Once on board, you will have a quick and comfortable journey from Brisbane Airport to Brisbane City in just 20 minutes.
Travel in Brisbane with go card for seamless journeys across all Translink buses, ferries and trains, including Airtrain. Smart Ticketing is also available on Airtrain, making your journey easier than ever before! With the world-class Smart Ticketing system, you can simply tap and travel with Visa, Mastercard and American Express.