Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk and Morning Tea

Discover the stunning natural beauty of the iconic Great Ocean Road on this thrilling full-day adventure from Melbourne. Witness the majestic 12 Apostles, spot wild koalas in their natural habitat, and explore the serene wilderness on a guided forest walk. Savor a refreshing morning tea while taking in the breathtaking coastal vistas. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – venture to the captivating Loch Ard Gorge and learn about its dramatic history. With knowledgeable guides and convenient transportation, this comprehensive tour ensures you make the most of your time exploring the Great Ocean Road’s natural wonders.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Walking Tours In Melbourne.

Key Points

1. A full-day adventure tour from Melbourne to explore the iconic Great Ocean Road, including sightings of koalas in their natural habitat and a guided forest walk.
2. Opportunity to witness the breathtaking panorama of the rugged coastline and towering cliffs, including the famous 12 Apostles.
3. A memorable wildlife experience, where visitors can observe the iconic Australian marsupials, koalas, in their natural environment.
4. Guided forest walk through the serene, untouched wilderness, with a chance to spot native birds and other elusive creatures.
5. A refreshing morning tea break to savor the coastal vistas and recharge before continuing the Great Ocean Road adventure.

Overview of the Adventure Tour

The Great Ocean Road Tour is a full-day adventure from Melbourne that allows travelers to discover the stunning natural beauty of the iconic Great Ocean Road.

During the tour, you will have the chance to see koalas in their natural habitat, go on a guided forest walk, and enjoy a refreshing morning tea.

The highlights of the tour include cruising along the scenic Great Ocean Road and witnessing the breathtaking 12 Apostles from different perspectives. Travelers will also get to swim at the picturesque Apollo Bay and explore the awe-inspiring Loch Ard Gorge.

The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for all participants.

Highlights of the Great Ocean Road

Cruising along the famed Great Ocean Road, travelers will be treated to a breathtaking panorama of rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and the iconic 12 Apostles – a cluster of limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean.

Spotting wild koalas and vibrant parrots at Kennett River, a unique opportunity to observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat.

Swimming at the picturesque seaside town of Apollo Bay, where the tour provides a chance to refresh and rejuvenate.

Exploring the dramatic Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning natural wonder with a rich history and breathtaking geological formations.

Seeing Koalas in the Wild

Nestled along the lush Kennett River, travelers on the Great Ocean Road tour are treated to a unique opportunity to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat.

Scanning the towering eucalyptus trees, they can catch glimpses of these iconic Australian marsupials lazing in the branches, providing an up-close encounter with these captivating creatures.

The guide points out the koalas’ distinctive features, like their rounded ears, fluffy gray fur, and sharp claws that help them climb effortlessly.

Visitors are amazed to witness these gentle animals in their element, munching on eucalyptus leaves and resting peacefully.

This stop on the tour offers a memorable wildlife experience that showcases the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road region.

Guided Forest Walk Experience

After marveling at the koalas, the guided forest walk takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the lush, verdant landscapes that line the Great Ocean Road.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers explore the serene, untouched wilderness, learning about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remarkable ecosystem.

The winding trails wind through towering ferns and ancient, moss-covered trees, offering a serene respite from the coastal views.

The forest walk experience offers:

• Insights into the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the region
• Opportunities to spot native birds and other elusive creatures
• A chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate its tranquility

Enjoying Morning Tea

Visitors begin their Great Ocean Road adventure with a refreshing morning tea, savored while taking in the stunning coastal vistas.

The tour includes a delightful break for morning tea, providing a chance to recharge and rejuvenate before continuing the journey. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, coffee, and light snacks as they gaze out at the breathtaking ocean scenery.

This pause in the day allows travelers to soak up the peaceful ambiance and refuel for the activities ahead. The morning tea experience is a welcome respite, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the excitement of exploring the iconic Great Ocean Road and its natural wonders.

Exploring Loch Ard Gorge

One of the must-see stops on the Great Ocean Road tour is Loch Ard Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder where the tour group gets to explore.

This stunning coastal gorge is known for its towering limestone cliffs, serene beaches, and rich history.

As part of the tour, visitors can:

• Wander along the gorge’s walking trails and take in the stunning panoramic views
• Explore the site where the Loch Ard clipper ship ran aground in 1878, learning about the dramatic rescue that inspired the name of the gorge
• Discover the Loch Ard Gorge’s unique geological formations, including the iconic ‘Razorback’ and ‘Island Archway’

The opportunity to experience this natural wonder up close is a highlight of the Great Ocean Road adventure.

Pickup and Meeting Point

The tour starts with pickup from the Melbourne CBD or a meeting point at The Great Southern Hotel Melbourne, with the tour beginning promptly at 7:00 am. This ensures all travelers are ready to embark on the day’s adventure along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road.

The early morning start allows for maximum time to explore the stunning coastal scenery, spot wildlife like koalas, and enjoy a guided forest walk. Guests don’t have to worry about transportation, as it’s all included in the tour.

Whether you’re meeting at the CBD or the hotel, the knowledgeable guide will be there to welcome you and provide a smooth start to this unforgettable full-day excursion.

Additional Tour Details

Along With the breathtaking coastal scenery and wildlife viewing, the Great Ocean Road tour offers a range of other features to enhance the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it welcomes strollers and service animals.

With a maximum of 24 travelers, the group size ensures a more intimate and personalized exploration of the region. On top of that, the tour operator provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing for flexibility in planning.

Other highlights of the tour include:

• Opportunity to swim at the picturesque Apollo Bay
• Exploration of the stunning Loch Ard Gorge
• Complimentary morning tea to refuel during the adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes as the tour involves outdoor activities. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is also advisable.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes stops at various scenic locations along the Great Ocean Road, providing opportunities to browse local shops and find unique mementos of the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, including children. Families with young kids are welcome to join the adventure along the Great Ocean Road.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, lunch and dinner are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. The tour does provide morning tea as an inclusion.

How Much Free Time Do We Have at Each Stop?

The amount of free time at each stop on the tour varies, but travelers generally have 30-60 minutes to explore the sites. The guide provides information on the recommended time for each activity to ensure the full itinerary is covered.

Recap

This full-day Great Ocean Road tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s stunning natural beauty.

From the iconic 12 Apostles to the captivating Loch Ard Gorge, the journey is filled with breathtaking sights.

Spotting koalas in their natural habitat and exploring the serene forest on a guided walk further enhance the experience.

With knowledgeable guides and convenient transportation, this tour provides a seamless and unforgettable exploration of the Great Ocean Road’s natural wonders.