Chakola WILDLIFE REFUGE

Kangaroo Valley is a stunningly beautiful valley surrounded by steep escarpments, nestled between the white beaches of the South Coast and Southern Highlands in New South Wales. It is reputed to be one of only seven fully enclosed valleys in the world. Less than 5kms from the town centre lies the property of Chakola (Aboriginal word for Lyrebird). Chakola is an 80-acre wildlife refuge managed by Conservation Volunteers.

Chakola specialises in catering for group getaways, including special interest and school groups, educational and training sessions, family getaways, yoga weekends, bushwalking retreats and corporate meetings and events. Most importantly, Conservation Volunteers uses Chakola as a volunteer base to make a long term difference to the ongoing preservation of the area's flora and fauna.

Accommodation and Facilities 

There are 16 small rustic cabins on the property which can accommodate up to 37 guests. Cabins are basic but comfortable, and range in size from single, twin share and double to 4-share dormitory-style rooms. Bed linen is available upon request for a small additional cost. Amenity blocks with showers and toilets are a short stroll from the cabins. A camp kitchen and dining area is available for self-catering.

Facilities include:

• BBQ
• Commercial grade kitchen stocked with all cooking utensils
  
• Shower and toilet blocks
  
• Dining area for up to 37 guests
  
• Table tennis and dart board in communal recreation area
  
• Wood heater with comfortable seating
  
• Training and Education Room for up to 37 people
  
• Access to DVD and TV
  
• Campfire
  

Flora and Fauna

On arrival you will be struck by the peace and quiet of this special nature retreat. Chakola is home to a number of iconic native Australian wildlife species, such as kangaroos, wallabies (including the endangered brushed tailed rock wallaby), bats, wombats, possums, and a resident lace monitor lizard. There is also a large variety of native birds including kookaburras, rainbow lorikeets, cockatoos, and of course lyrebirds.

A flora survey conducted in 1999 identified seven different vegetation types the Chakola property, this included 4 plant species of National Conservation significance and 46 plant species of Regional significance. Chakola has 15 types of Pigmy Orchids and 80 different types of flowering plants.

Activities 

t Chakola, a variety of beautiful bushwalks are available and it's only a short drive to National Parks, scenic lookouts and waterfalls. Morton National Park provides a number of walks in the Southern Highlands. A trip to Fitzroy Falls and interpretive visitor centre is well worth the time.

Other activities available in the area include: 

• Historical villages of Kangaroo Valley and Berry 
  
• Local arts and crafts
  
• Golf available in Kangaroo Valley
  
• Guided bushwalks and special programs suitable for all ages with the National Parks and Wildlife Service
  
• Night walks
  
• Tours with local operators in Kangaroo Valley including canoeing, hiking and bicycle hire
  

Read more about our Education Programs CLICK HERE