Kent Group National Park

Kent Group National Park is a protected area in Australia.

Kent Group National Park at a Glance

Location
Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-39.470352, 147.285370
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 Kent Group National Park

Nearest airport: Inner Sister Island Airstrip, 59 km away.

Nearest international airport: Hobart Airport (HBA), 375 km away.

Weather & Climate in Kent Group National Park

The warmest temperatures in Kent Group National Park occur in February, averaging 17.0°C (up to 17.9°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 11.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 35.3mm. Average humidity: 77.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 17.0°C (rainfall: 61.8mm)
  • February: 17.0°C (rainfall: 35.3mm)
  • March: 16.8°C (rainfall: 50.2mm)
  • April: 15.3°C (rainfall: 73.7mm)
  • May: 13.7°C (rainfall: 64.5mm)
  • June: 12.3°C (rainfall: 71.2mm)
  • July: 11.5°C (rainfall: 56.6mm)
  • August: 11.6°C (rainfall: 61.0mm)
  • September: 11.8°C (rainfall: 58.0mm)
  • October: 12.4°C (rainfall: 87.5mm)
  • November: 13.7°C (rainfall: 60.6mm)
  • December: 15.1°C (rainfall: 36.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Kent Group National Park

The best months to visit Kent Group National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 16.97°C, rainfall 61.8mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 81.4%
  • February: Good, temperature 16.99°C, rainfall 35.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • March: Good, temperature 16.76°C, rainfall 50.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 76.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 15.28°C, rainfall 73.7mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 75.9%
  • May: Good, temperature 13.68°C, rainfall 64.5mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • June: Poor, temperature 12.26°C, rainfall 71.2mm, sunshine 6.6 hrs, humidity 74.7%
  • July: Poor, temperature 11.53°C, rainfall 56.6mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 75.5%
  • August: Good, temperature 11.56°C, rainfall 61mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • September: Good, temperature 11.78°C, rainfall 58mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 77%
  • October: Good, temperature 12.39°C, rainfall 87.5mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 78%
  • November: Good, temperature 13.71°C, rainfall 60.6mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 80.2%
  • December: Good, temperature 15.05°C, rainfall 36.7mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 77.7%

Wildlife in Kent Group National Park

Home to 7 recorded species including 3 waterbirds, 2 birds of prey, 1 tropical birds, 1 iconic birds.

Recommended Packing List for Kent Group National Park

Based on average temperature of 14.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 77%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 14°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

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Tasmania & Bass Strait Islands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Kent Group National Park FAQs

When is the ideal time to visit Kent Group National Park for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable conditions?

The best time to experience Kent Group National Park is during Australia's spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer mild temperatures, making guided walks and wildlife spotting more enjoyable, and coincide with active periods for many native species.

What distinct Australian wildlife can I expect to see at Kent Group National Park, and what kind of safari experience is offered?

Kent Group National Park, as a protected area in Australia, offers unique encounters with native marsupials like various kangaroo and wallaby species, alongside diverse birdlife. The safari experience focuses on guided tours through expansive natural habitats, providing intimate viewing opportunities in a remarkably uncrowded setting.

What are the typical costs for a safari experience at Kent Group National Park, including entry and guided tours?

Entry fees for Kent Group National Park typically range from AUD$40-60 per adult, with guided safari tours costing an additional AUD$80-150 depending on duration and inclusions. These costs reflect the park's commitment to conservation and the exclusive, low-crowd experience it provides.

What specific health precautions should visitors take regarding the moderate malaria risk at Kent Group National Park?

Due to the moderate malaria risk identified for Kent Group National Park, it is crucial to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication well before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if provided.

How does Kent Group National Park's exceptionally low crowding level (1/5) enhance the visitor experience?

The park's remarkably low crowding level ensures a truly intimate and peaceful safari experience, allowing for unobstructed wildlife viewing and photography opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a deeper connection with nature without the typical distractions of large tour groups, making each encounter feel more personal and exclusive.

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.