Written by Ben Cole· Updated Mar 2026Quick Actions
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About Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Tower Hill is an ancient maar volcano — a broad, low-relief volcanic crater formed by a violent steam explosion — that last erupted approximately 35,000 years ago and now contains a shallow lake with several smaller volcanic cones rising from the water. The reserve has been extensively revegetated since the 1960s and is now an outstanding wildlife sanctuary where emus, kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas roam freely. It is one of the few places in Victoria where all of these species can be reliably seen together.
About
Tower Hill is an ancient maar volcano — a broad, low-relief volcanic crater formed by a violent steam explosion — that last erupted approximately 35,000 years ago and now contains a shallow lake with several smaller volcanic cones rising from the water. The reserve has been extensively revegetated since the 1960s and is now an outstanding wildlife sanctuary where emus, kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas roam freely. It is one of the few places in Victoria where all of these species can be reliably seen together.
Warnings
Getting There
Tower Hill is located 14km west of Warrnambool on the Princes Highway (A1), near the town of Koroit. The reserve entrance is signposted on the highway.
Visitor Tips
- •Arrive early morning for the best wildlife sightings. Emus are almost guaranteed year-round. The Peak walk (30 minutes return) gives excellent views from the volcanic cone summit. Visit in conjunction with the Warrnambool coast.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 2-3 hours
- Best Time
- Year-round; early morning for wildlife activity; winter for birdwatching
Location
- Region
- Great Ocean Road
- State
- Victoria
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Highlights
Activities
Features
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