Great Ocean Walk Highlights Hiking Tour – 4 Days

Exploring the rugged beauty of Australia’s Great Ocean Road has never been more captivating. The Great Ocean Walk Highlights Hiking Tour promises a thrilling 4-day adventure that showcases the region’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Participants can expect guided hikes through the lush Great Otway National Park, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and enjoy the area’s natural wonders. Comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and knowledgeable professionals ensure an unforgettable small-group experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an exceptional outdoor adventure, this tour offers a chance to create lasting memories along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 4 Day Tours In Melbourne.

Key Points

• 4-day small-group hiking adventure along the iconic Melbourne coastline, including the Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, and Great Otway National Park.
• Led by knowledgeable guides with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and dolphins.
• Accommodation at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation and all meals provided, catering to various dietary requirements.
• Moderate fitness level required for daily hikes covering 10-15 km, with transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.
• Tour operates in all weather conditions, with proper clothing and gear recommended for a memorable hiking experience.

Tour Overview

The Great Ocean Walk Highlights hiking tour is a 4-day small-group adventure that takes participants along the stunning coastline of Melbourne, Australia.

Rated 5.0/5.0 from 7 reviews, this tour explores the highlights of the Great Ocean Walk, including the iconic Twelve Apostles, the quaint town of Apollo Bay, and the lush Great Otway National Park.

Led by knowledgeable guides, hikers can expect to spot a variety of wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, and even whales.

Accommodation, meals, and transportation are all included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

With a maximum of 10 participants, this tour offers an intimate and personalized way to discover the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road region.

Itinerary Highlights

Hikers on the Great Ocean Walk Highlights tour will explore various sections of the iconic coastal trail, including the stunning Twelve Apostles, the charming town of Apollo Bay, the serene Elliot River, and the lush Great Otway National Park.

These daily hikes are led by knowledgeable guides who’ll share their expertise about the region’s natural wonders and wildlife. Along the way, participants may spot kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, dolphins, and even whales.

In the evenings, they’ll unwind at the 3.5-star accommodation near the Cape Otway Lightstation, savoring 2-course dinners, snacks, and pre-dinner nibbles.

This tour offers an immersive experience of the Great Ocean Road’s highlights, blending stunning scenery with opportunities to connect with nature.

Accommodation and Meals

The Great Ocean Walk Highlights tour offers 3 nights of accommodation, including a stay at the 3.5-star Cape Otway Lightstation.

Each day, participants can enjoy 3 meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. The dinners are 2-course meals, and the tour also provides snacks, trail mix, and pre-dinner nibbles on 3 nights.

All meals are included in the tour price, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for hikers.

With the comfortable accommodations and hearty meals, participants can fully recharge between the daily hikes along the stunning Great Ocean Walk.

Guide and Transport

Knowledgeable guides lead daily hikes through different sections of the Great Ocean Walk, providing participants with in-depth insights into the region’s natural wonders. The tour also includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan to and from the meeting point, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

The tour includes:

1. Professional guides who share their expertise on the local flora, fauna, and history of the area.

2. All necessary park access permits, allowing seamless exploration of the Great Otway National Park and other protected sites.

3. Convenient transportation, with the tour meeting and ending at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne’s city center.

Meeting Details

The tour begins at 7:20 am at the National Gallery of Victoria, located at 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006, Australia. Participants return to this same meeting point upon completion of the 4-day hiking adventure. Guests are expected to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly at the scheduled start time.

The guides provide an overview of the itinerary and ensure everyone is prepared for the day’s activities. Transportation to the different sections of the Great Ocean Walk is provided in an air-conditioned minivan.

At the end of the tour, participants are dropped off back at the National Gallery of Victoria, where they can continue their exploration of Melbourne.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Moderate physical fitness is required for this Great Ocean Walk Highlights tour, as the daily hikes can be strenuous at times. Participants should be able to comfortably walk for extended periods over uneven terrain, with some steep ascents and descents. It’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the physical demands of the hiking activities.

Here are a few key considerations for the physical fitness required:

Participants should be able to hike for 4-6 hours per day, covering distances of 10-15 km.

The trails include rocky sections, sand, and steep steps, so a good level of balance and agility is needed.

Warm, dry weather can make the hikes more physically challenging, so hydration and pacing are important.

Dietary Accommodations

The tour caters to vegetarian diners, and participants with other dietary requirements can advise these at the time of booking.

The team is happy to accommodate various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut allergies.

Vegetarian meals are provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

The guides work closely with the catering team to ensure that everyone’s dietary preferences are met, allowing participants to fully enjoy the hiking experience without any worries about their meals.

Whether you’re a strict vegan or have specific food sensitivities, the Great Ocean Walk Highlights Hiking Tour is designed to cater to all dietary requirements.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

Participants should note that the tour is non-refundable upon cancellation. The tour operates in all weather conditions, and guides recommend packing appropriate clothing to ensure a comfortable experience. Regardless of the weather, the team is dedicated to providing a memorable hiking adventure along the Great Ocean Walk.

Here are a few key points about the cancellation and weather policy:

1. The tour is non-refundable, so it’s important to carefully consider your plans before booking.

2. The tour runs rain or shine, so participants should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.

3. Proper clothing and gear are essential to make the most of the hiking experience, even in inclement weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Suggested Packing List for This Tour?

The packing list should include comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing suitable for varying weather conditions, sun protection, rain jacket, water bottle, snacks, and any necessary personal items. Specific recommendations may vary depending on the tour’s location and duration.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees During the Tour?

The tour includes accommodation, meals, guides, and transportation as stated. There are no additional costs or fees during the tour, except for personal expenses like souvenirs or extra snacks. Participants should come prepared with the recommended clothing and equipment.

Are There Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs or Local Goods?

Yes, there are usually opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local goods during guided tours. Participants can often find unique handmade crafts, artwork, and specialty food items at designated stops or shops along the tour route.

What Is the Typical Group Size and Composition?

The typical group size is small, with a maximum of 10 participants. The group composition is diverse, often including hikers and nature enthusiasts of varying ages and backgrounds who are looking to explore the local sights and wildlife together.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Disabilities?

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the moderate physical fitness required for the daily hikes. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate guests with milder disabilities on a case-by-case basis with prior notice.

Recap

The Great Ocean Walk Highlights Hiking Tour offers an unforgettable 4-day adventure exploring Melbourne’s stunning coastline.

Guests will hike through the breathtaking Great Otway National Park, witness iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, and spot diverse wildlife, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and delicious meals.

This small-group tour, led by knowledgeable professionals, promises an intimate and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to create lasting memories.