From Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Moonlit Sanctuary Tour

Exploring the natural wonders beyond Melbourne’s urban landscape, the Puffing Billy & Moonlit Sanctuary Tour offers a captivating adventure. Travelers embark on a scenic train ride aboard the iconic Puffing Billy steam engine, seeing the lush Dandenong Ranges. The journey continues at the Moonlit Sanctuary, where they can witness an array of captivating Australian wildlife up close. As the tour concludes with a scenic drive through the region, visitors are left with a newfound appreciation for the diverse ecosystems that surround the city. With its unique blend of heritage, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This 6-hour tour from Melbourne includes a 1-hour ride on the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Engine and a visit to the Moonlit Sanctuary wildlife park.
• Guests are conveniently picked up from and dropped off at 10 select hotels across Melbourne, allowing for a hassle-free transportation experience.
• The Puffing Billy ride offers a unique and nostalgic way to explore the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, with stunning scenery along the historic narrow-gauge railway.
• At the Moonlit Sanctuary, visitors can witness a diverse array of native Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies, in their natural habitats.
• The tour also includes a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges, showcasing the region’s dense forests, fern gullies, and charming villages.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The Puffing Billy & Moonlit Sanctuary Tour lasts for 6 hours, during which participants are picked up from and dropped off at 10 select hotels in Melbourne.

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide.

The day begins with a 1-hour train ride on the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Engine, traveling from Lakeside to Belgrave.

Next, visitors will explore the Moonlit Sanctuary, where they can see a variety of Australian wildlife up close.

The tour also includes a scenic drive through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges.

Inclusions cover hotel pickup and drop-off, the Puffing Billy Steam Train ride, and entry to the Moonlit Sanctuary.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off at 10 select hotels across Melbourne, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures.

Guests can board the tour at hotels in the heart of the city, making it easy to join the excursion without any hassle.

Whether you’re staying in the central business district, the lively Southbank area, or one of the other designated pickup locations, the tour will conveniently bring you to the starting point and return you to your hotel after the day’s activities.

This hassle-free transportation allows you to focus on enjoying the Puffing Billy steam train ride and Moonlit Sanctuary wildlife experience without worrying about logistics.

Puffing Billy Steam Engine Ride

One of the highlights of the tour is the 1-hour train ride aboard the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Engine, which chugs its way from Lakeside to Belgrave through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges.

Guests can marvel at the stunning scenery as the vintage locomotive pulls them along the historic narrow-gauge railway, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich railway heritage.

The steam-powered engine’s nostalgic whistle and the gentle rocking motion as it navigates the winding tracks create a truly memorable experience.

Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to explore the Dandenong Ranges, the Puffing Billy ride is sure to be a highlight of the tour.

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Viewing

After the train ride, guests then visit the acclaimed Moonlit Sanctuary, where they can witness an array of captivating Australian wildlife up close.

The sanctuary is home to a diverse collection of native species, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and various birds, all of which roam freely within the park’s expansive natural habitats.

Visitors are afforded ample time to explore the sanctuary and interact with the friendly animals, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s unique fauna.

The sanctuary offers an immersive and educational experience, allowing guests to observe the animals in their natural environments and learn about their behaviors and habitats.

This portion of the tour provides a truly memorable encounter with Australia’s iconic wildlife.

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Dandenong Ranges Scenic Drive

Following the visit to Moonlit Sanctuary, the tour continues with a scenic drive through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges.

This lush, rolling landscape offers breathtaking vistas of dense forests, fern gullies, and quaint villages nestled along winding roads. Guests can admire the region’s natural beauty and tranquil ambiance as the tour bus winds its way through this enchanting mountain range.

The Dandenong Ranges are known for their cool climate, abundant wildlife, and charming towns, like Olinda and Sassafras, which feature quaint cafes, antique shops, and art galleries.

The scenic drive is a highlight of the tour, providing a peaceful respite and the opportunity to take in the stunning natural surroundings of this iconic Australian destination.

Pricing and Reservation Details

The tour is priced from $123.81 per person, and guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

This affordable price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the Puffing Billy Steam Train ride, and admission to the Moonlit Sanctuary wildlife park.

Given the tour’s popularity, it’s recommended to reserve your spot in advance to ensure availability.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old, but it’s a great option for families and groups looking to experience the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges.

On total fire ban days, a diesel engine will replace the iconic steam train, but the overall experience will remain the same.

Age Restrictions and Fire Bans

Though the Puffing Billy & Moonlit Sanctuary Tour offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages, it’s not suitable for children under 4 years old.

On days with total fire bans, the iconic steam engine is replaced by a diesel locomotive, though the overall tour itinerary remains unchanged. This measure is in place to ensure the safety of all participants during high-risk fire conditions.

While the steam engine ride is a highlight of the tour, the diesel engine still provides the opportunity to enjoy the scenic Dandenong Ranges and the wildlife encounter at Moonlit Sanctuary. Guests can expect the same level of quality and customer service, regardless of the type of locomotive used on the day.

Tour Highlights and Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary showcases the region’s natural wonders, kicking off with a 1-hour train ride on the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Engine from Lakeside to Belgrave. This vintage locomotive will transport guests through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, offering breathtaking views of the lush greenery and charming towns.

Next, the tour visits the Moonlit Sanctuary, where travelers can enjoy the world of Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and various bird species. With ample free time to explore the sanctuary, guests can observe the animals in their natural habitats and learn about local conservation efforts.

The scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges completes this well-rounded tour, leaving visitors with lasting memories of Melbourne’s captivating natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour provides restroom facilities during the journey. Restrooms are available on the Puffing Billy Steam Train and at the Moonlit Sanctuary, ensuring that guests have access to necessary facilities throughout the duration of the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there may be designated areas or times for consuming outside items. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or recommendations.

Is the Tour Wheelchair-Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair-accessible, with pickup and drop-off at select hotels and a train ride that can accommodate wheelchair users. However, the terrain at the Moonlit Sanctuary may present some challenges for those with limited mobility.

Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Customers can typically extend the tour or add additional activities, though availability and pricing may vary. It’s best to check with the tour operator directly to inquire about customization options and any additional costs.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?

Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Bring a camera, sunscreen, and a small backpack or purse to carry personal items. It’s also a good idea to bring water and a light snack.

Recap

The Puffing Billy & Moonlit Sanctuary Tour offers a captivating exploration of Melbourne’s natural wonders. Travelers can witness the iconic Puffing Billy steam engine, observe diverse Australian wildlife, and enjoy the Dandenong Ranges’ scenic beauty.

This comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the region’s unique natural attractions in a single, seamless excursion.

You can check if your dates are available here: