Step off the ferry at Darlington, on Maria Island, and find wombats grazing the lawns between the old convict buildings in broad daylight. The island is a car-free national park off Tasmania's east coast, reached by a passenger ferry of about 30 minutes from Triabunna, and its wombats are so used to walkers that a sighting is close to certain. Visitors are asked to take the Maria Island Pledge: no chasing, no touching, no selfie sticks.
Up to 97% sighting chance in Maria Island National Park, Tasmania, Australia. Best months: May, June, July.
By passenger ferry from Triabunna, about an hour and a quarter's drive from Hobart. The crossing takes around 30 minutes, and a national parks pass is required.
Wombats graze around Darlington through the day, especially in the cooler months, and most actively in the late afternoon.
No. The Maria Island Pledge asks visitors to keep their distance and never touch or chase a wombat, even when one walks right up.
Forester kangaroos, Bennett's wallabies, Cape Barren geese and, at night, the Tasmanian devils released on the island.
Yes, in the basic bunk rooms of the old penitentiary or at the campground. There are no shops, so bring all your food.
