Safari in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Compare Parks in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Ecosystem - Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

We love the raw, untamed beauty of Tasmania and its surrounding islands. The air here feels cleaner, the silence deeper, broken only by the calls of unique wildlife. We recommend venturing into the heart of the ancient rainforests where the light filters through a canopy centuries old. The rugged coastlines offer breathtaking vistas, and the sunsets over the Bass Strait are simply sensational.

Dominated by ancient mountain ranges, rolling hills, and dramatic coastlines, with extensive temperate rainforests and heathlands.

Getting There - Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Getting to Tasmania is straightforward; we recommend flying into Hobart or Launceston for the most convenience. If you're bringing your own vehicle or prefer a unique arrival, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from mainland Australia is an experience in itself, offering a relaxed transition to the island's wild beauty.

Weather & Climate in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

The warmest temperatures in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands occur in January, averaging 15.1°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 7.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 71.8mm. Average humidity: 75.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 15.1°C (rainfall: 92.9mm)
• February: 14.4°C (rainfall: 71.8mm)
• March: 13.2°C (rainfall: 88.5mm)
• April: 11.1°C (rainfall: 91.9mm)
• May: 8.9°C (rainfall: 88.2mm)
• June: 7.5°C (rainfall: 110.0mm)
• July: 7.0°C (rainfall: 91.9mm)
• August: 7.6°C (rainfall: 125.2mm)
• September: 8.4°C (rainfall: 101.0mm)
• October: 9.5°C (rainfall: 151.1mm)
• November: 11.7°C (rainfall: 96.2mm)
• December: 13.0°C (rainfall: 83.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

The best months to visit Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Good, temperature 15.1°C, rainfall 92.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 76.3%
• February: Good, temperature 14.4°C, rainfall 71.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 75.4%
• March: Good, temperature 13.2°C, rainfall 88.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 78%
• April: Poor, temperature 11.1°C, rainfall 91.9mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 80.5%
• May: Poor, temperature 8.9°C, rainfall 88.2mm, sunshine 6.7 hrs, humidity 82%
• June: Poor, temperature 7.5°C, rainfall 110mm, sunshine 5.6 hrs, humidity 84.1%
• July: Poor, temperature 7°C, rainfall 91.9mm, sunshine 6.2 hrs, humidity 83.2%
• August: Poor, temperature 7.6°C, rainfall 125.2mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 82.8%
• September: Poor, temperature 8.4°C, rainfall 101mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 79.3%
• October: Poor, temperature 9.5°C, rainfall 151.1mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 78.3%
• November: Good, temperature 11.7°C, rainfall 96.2mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 77%
• December: Good, temperature 13°C, rainfall 83mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 74.5%

Recommended Packing List for Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Based on average temperature of 10.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

• Layered clothing - recommended for 11°C temperatures
• Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Home to 77 recorded species including 29 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 12 birds of prey, 11 tropical birds, 6 marine & freshwater, 4 small mammals.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands FAQs

Beyond the Tasmanian Devil, what unique wildlife encounters can I expect, and how are they best experienced?

Tasmania offers incredible opportunities to see endemic species like quolls, wombats, and various birdlife, including penguins and albatross. Nocturnal spotlighting tours are excellent for spotting devils and quolls, while coastal cruises can reveal seals, dolphins, and migrating whales in their natural habitats.

What is the ideal time of year for a wildlife and wilderness safari in Tasmania, considering its distinct southern climate?

The warmer months from November to April are generally best for hiking, coastal activities, and comfortable wildlife viewing. However, shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) offer fewer crowds and unique experiences like spring wildflowers or autumn colours, while winter provides dramatic landscapes and opportunities for aurora australis viewing.

How do I best navigate travel to and between Tasmania and its remote Bass Strait Islands for a safari adventure?

Most visitors fly into Hobart or Launceston, or take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne. For exploring the main island, self-driving offers flexibility, though guided tours are available. Accessing the Bass Strait Islands often requires regional flights or chartered services, offering truly remote wilderness experiences.

What kind of 'safari' experience is typical in Tasmania, differing from mainland Australia or African safaris?

Tasmanian safaris focus on immersive, often self-guided or small-group experiences, emphasizing walking, hiking, and boat tours rather than traditional vehicle-based game drives. Expect to track unique marsupials, explore ancient rainforests, and discover pristine coastlines, with a strong emphasis on conservation and minimal impact.

Are there specific permits or fees required to access Tasmania's national parks and conservation areas?

Yes, a Tasmania Parks Pass is required for entry into all national parks and many reserves, available for various durations. This pass contributes directly to conservation efforts and park maintenance, with separate fees potentially applying for specific multi-day treks like the Overland Track or guided tours.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.