Alfred National Park

Alfred National Park is a protected area in Australia.

Alfred National Park at a Glance

Location
Victoria & Western NSW Riverlands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-37.555153, 149.363950
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Alfred National Park

Nearest airport: Gabo Island Airport, 48 km away.

Nearest international airport: Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport (SYD), 433 km away.

Weather & Climate in Alfred National Park

The warmest temperatures in Alfred National Park occur in January, averaging 19.2°C (up to 25.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 9.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 63.1mm. Average humidity: 81.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 19.2°C (rainfall: 98.9mm)
  • February: 18.4°C (rainfall: 71.3mm)
  • March: 16.9°C (rainfall: 86.9mm)
  • April: 14.1°C (rainfall: 116.4mm)
  • May: 11.4°C (rainfall: 82.5mm)
  • June: 9.5°C (rainfall: 87.7mm)
  • July: 9.0°C (rainfall: 63.1mm)
  • August: 10.3°C (rainfall: 93.1mm)
  • September: 12.3°C (rainfall: 68.3mm)
  • October: 13.5°C (rainfall: 117.6mm)
  • November: 15.8°C (rainfall: 126.6mm)
  • December: 16.9°C (rainfall: 105.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Alfred National Park

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 19.16°C, rainfall 98.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 77.5%
  • February: Good, temperature 18.39°C, rainfall 71.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 16.94°C, rainfall 86.9mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • April: Poor, temperature 14.14°C, rainfall 116.4mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 80.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 11.41°C, rainfall 82.5mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • June: Poor, temperature 9.46°C, rainfall 87.7mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • July: Poor, temperature 9.01°C, rainfall 63.1mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • August: Poor, temperature 10.3°C, rainfall 93.1mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 77.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 12.29°C, rainfall 68.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 73%
  • October: Poor, temperature 13.46°C, rainfall 117.6mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 76.7%
  • November: Good, temperature 15.78°C, rainfall 126.6mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • December: Good, temperature 16.92°C, rainfall 105.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 76.5%

Wildlife in Alfred National Park

Home to 67 recorded species including 26 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 11 tropical birds, 10 birds of prey, 4 big herbivores, 2 small mammals.

Recommended Packing List for Alfred National Park

Based on average temperature of 13.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • 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

Safari Lodges in Alfred National Park

4 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Victoria & Western NSW Riverlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Alfred National Park FAQs

What specific malaria precautions are recommended for visitors to Alfred National Park, given its moderate risk level?

While Alfred National Park has a moderate malaria risk, visitors should take proactive measures. It is highly recommended to use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers, especially during dawn and dusk, and consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip.

What unique Australian wildlife can I expect to encounter on a safari at Alfred National Park, distinguishing it from African safaris?

Alfred National Park offers a distinct Australian safari experience, focusing on native species. Visitors can anticipate seeing iconic kangaroos and wallabies, various endemic bird species like kookaburras and cockatoos, and potentially elusive marsupials such as koalas or wombats in their natural habitat.

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

The park's very low crowding level ensures a remarkably intimate and peaceful safari experience. Visitors can enjoy unhurried wildlife viewing without competition, more personal interactions with guides, and a profound sense of solitude amidst Australia's natural beauty.

What is the optimal time of year to visit Alfred National Park for the best wildlife viewing and comfortable weather?

The best time to visit Alfred National Park is typically during the cooler, drier months, from May to September. During this period, wildlife is often more active and visible near water sources, and the pleasant temperatures make for more comfortable exploration and outdoor activities.

Beyond traditional game drives, what unique activities does Alfred National Park offer, and what is the typical entry cost?

In addition to guided wildlife drives, Alfred National Park provides unique experiences like guided bushwalks to discover smaller fauna and flora, birdwatching excursions, and stargazing tours. Park entry fees typically range from AUD $30-50 per adult for a day pass, with multi-day and package options available.

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.