Ben Lomond National Park

Ben Lomond National Park is a protected area in Australia.

Ben Lomond National Park at a Glance

Location
Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-41.561040, 147.661400
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season in the north). Year-round in southern parks.

Getting to Ben Lomond National Park

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 23 km away.

Nearest international airport: Hobart Airport (HBA), 142 km away.

Weather & Climate in Ben Lomond National Park

The warmest temperatures in Ben Lomond National Park occur in January, averaging 10.5°C (up to 15.8°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 0.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in May with average rainfall of 69.9mm. Average humidity: 87.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 10.5°C (rainfall: 107.7mm)
  • February: 9.4°C (rainfall: 88.6mm)
  • March: 8.0°C (rainfall: 106.8mm)
  • April: 5.5°C (rainfall: 90.2mm)
  • May: 3.0°C (rainfall: 69.9mm)
  • June: 1.4°C (rainfall: 118.4mm)
  • July: 0.9°C (rainfall: 78.1mm)
  • August: 1.6°C (rainfall: 127.6mm)
  • September: 2.6°C (rainfall: 101.0mm)
  • October: 4.2°C (rainfall: 177.5mm)
  • November: 7.0°C (rainfall: 118.6mm)
  • December: 8.3°C (rainfall: 102.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Ben Lomond National Park

The best months to visit Ben Lomond National Park are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 10.46°C, rainfall 107.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 78.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 9.38°C, rainfall 88.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • March: Poor, temperature 7.95°C, rainfall 106.8mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • April: Poor, temperature 5.47°C, rainfall 90.2mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 85.1%
  • May: Poor, temperature 2.95°C, rainfall 69.9mm, sunshine 7.2 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • June: Poor, temperature 1.39°C, rainfall 118.4mm, sunshine 5.6 hrs, humidity 90.7%
  • July: Poor, temperature 0.92°C, rainfall 78.1mm, sunshine 6.3 hrs, humidity 89.2%
  • August: Poor, temperature 1.56°C, rainfall 127.6mm, sunshine 6.9 hrs, humidity 90%
  • September: Poor, temperature 2.65°C, rainfall 101mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 84.7%
  • October: Poor, temperature 4.16°C, rainfall 177.5mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 7°C, rainfall 118.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 79.4%
  • December: Good, temperature 8.26°C, rainfall 102.8mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 75.8%

Wildlife in Ben Lomond National Park

Home to 45 recorded species including 19 waterbirds, 8 tropical birds, 7 birds of prey, 4 iconic birds, 4 small mammals, 3 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Ben Lomond National Park

Based on average temperature of 5.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 84%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 5°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • 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

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Ben Lomond National Park

9 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Ben Lomond National Park FAQs

When is the optimal time of year to visit Ben Lomond National Park for wildlife viewing and comfortable exploration?

The best time to visit Ben Lomond National Park is typically during Australia's spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer mild temperatures, ideal for hiking and observing the park's unique Australian wildlife, while avoiding the extremes of summer heat or winter chill.

What specific Australian wildlife can visitors expect to encounter at Ben Lomond National Park?

Ben Lomond National Park is home to a diverse range of Australian fauna, including various marsupials like wallabies and wombats, as well as a rich birdlife. Keep an eye out for unique species adapted to the park's specific ecosystems, offering a truly authentic Australian wildlife experience.

Given its location, what specific health and safety precautions should I take when visiting Ben Lomond National Park, particularly regarding malaria?

While Ben Lomond National Park is in Australia, it has a moderate malaria risk, so consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and use insect repellent diligently, especially at dawn and dusk. Additionally, always carry sufficient water, inform someone of your itinerary, and be aware of local conditions for a safe visit.

What unique activities and experiences can I enjoy at Ben Lomond National Park, and how crowded does it typically get?

Visitors to Ben Lomond National Park can enjoy extensive hiking trails, birdwatching, and photography amidst stunning Australian landscapes. With a very low crowding level, you can expect a tranquil and intimate experience, allowing for peaceful immersion in nature without the typical tourist rush.

Are there any entry fees or unique features that set Ben Lomond National Park apart for travelers?

As a protected area, Ben Lomond National Park may have a modest entry fee, which contributes to its conservation efforts. Its distinctiveness lies in its combination of accessible Australian wilderness, unique geological formations, and the opportunity for uncrowded wildlife encounters, making it a serene escape.

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.