Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour From Melbourne

Exploring the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road is a must-do for any visitor to Melbourne. This private hiking tour takes you on a journey through the region’s iconic landscapes, from the towering 12 Apostles to the lush Otways. With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, you’ll embark on moderate hikes, spotting native wildlife and encountering stunning waterfalls along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking to learn about Australia’s breathtaking scenery, this full-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes this tour truly unique, and why should you consider it over others? Let’s dive in and find out.

Key Points

• This private hiking tour from Melbourne showcases the iconic 12 Apostles, Otways waterfalls, and scenic stops along the Great Ocean Road.
• The tour includes a moderate Grade 2 hike through the Otways, as well as opportunities to explore ancient Californian Redwood forests and spot native Australian Koalas.
• Participants will enjoy snacks, beverages, entrance fees, and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide throughout the full-day experience.
• The tour offers convenient meeting and pickup options, including direct meeting in Southbank and door-to-door service from Melbourne CBD.
• This private tour is suitable for moderately fit participants, with proper gear and preparation recommended for the hiking activities.

Tour Overview

This private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders, with an overall rating of 5.0 based on 6 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

The tour starts at 7:30 am and ends back at the meeting point. Highlights include visiting the 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps, a Grade 2 hike to Otways waterfalls, and exploring towering Californian Redwoods.

Scenic stops at Apollo Bay and Lorne are included, as well as the opportunity to spot native Australian Koalas at Kennett River.

The tour includes snacks, beverages, entrance fees, an air-conditioned vehicle, rain ponchos, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Meeting and pickup options are available, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include a visit to the iconic 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps, a Grade 2 hike to Otways waterfalls, and an exploration of towering Californian Redwoods.

Scenic stops at Apollo Bay and Lorne are also part of the experience, as well as the opportunity to spot native Australian Koalas at Kennett River.

The tour offers a diverse range of activities:

• Admiring the majestic 12 Apostles rock formations

• Embarking on a moderate hike to discover Otways waterfalls

• Taking in the serene atmosphere of ancient Redwood forests

• Enjoying picturesque views along the Great Ocean Road

• Spotting unique Australian wildlife like Koalas in their natural habitat

Inclusions

The tour includes a range of amenities and services to enhance the hiking experience.

Snacks and beverages are provided, including organic fruit, healthy snacks, freshly-brewed coffee, and organic tea.

Entrance fees to key attractions like the 12 Apostles and Great Otway National Park are covered.

Travelers will also enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and the convenience of rain ponchos and first aid supplies.

The friendly, knowledgeable tour guide is on hand to ensure a smooth and informative journey.

These inclusive offerings allow participants to focus on seeing the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road without worrying about logistics.

Meeting & Pickup Information

Travelers can either opt for a direct meeting at the tour’s departure point or take advantage of the convenient door-to-door pickup service within the Melbourne CBD.

The tour departs from 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank, VIC 3004, which serves as the meeting point for those not requiring pickup. For those preferring a more seamless start, the tour operator offers a complimentary pickup service from locations within the city center. This ensures a stress-free beginning to the day’s adventure.

The tour concludes at the same meeting point, making it easy for participants to continue their journey or make their way back home.

• Direct meeting at 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank

• Door-to-door pickup service in Melbourne CBD

• Convenient departure and return location

• Hassle-free start and end to the tour

• Easy accessibility for all participants

Participant Requirements

For this tour, participants don’t need to be wheelchair users, but a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The hike to the Otways waterfalls is graded at level 2, so participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity.

Comfortable trainers or hiking boots, a 1-liter water bottle, cash/card for lunch (around $35), warm layers, sun protection, and an optional swimsuit and towel for summer ocean swims are recommended gear.

The tour is private, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility limitations may need to consider alternative options.

Tour Duration

Starting at 7:30 am, the private hiking tour from Melbourne concludes at the original meeting point, providing a full-day experience exploring the stunning coastal landscapes along the Great Ocean Road.

The tour’s duration allows ample time to:

• Marvel at the iconic 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps

• Set out on a Grade 2 hike to discover Otways waterfalls

• Wander through the towering Californian Redwoods

• Enjoy scenic stops at picturesque towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne

• Spot native Australian Koalas at the Kennett River

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this comprehensive tour ensures you make the most of your day, returning to the starting point by the end of the activity.

Activity Level

The hiking tour from Melbourne requires a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves a Grade 2 hike through the Otways to discover waterfalls.

Participants should be prepared for a full day of activity, including walking on uneven terrain and navigating stairs at key sights. While the overall pace is comfortable, the tour isn’t suitable for those with significant mobility restrictions.

Proper footwear and layered clothing are essential, as the weather can be unpredictable. Guests should also bring a water bottle and be ready to carry it throughout the day.

With the right preparation, the hiking tour offers a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Great Ocean Road at a manageable pace.

Tour Operator

This private hiking tour from Melbourne is operated by a reputable local tour company with extensive experience leading outdoor excursions in the region. They employ knowledgeable, friendly guides who are passionate about showcasing the area’s natural wonders and providing guests with a safe, memorable experience.

Key features of this tour operator include:

• Customized itineraries and small group sizes for a personalized experience

• Emphasis on eco-friendly, sustainable practices and minimizing environmental impact

• Commitment to safety, with first aid kits, rain ponchos, and other essential gear provided

• Excellent customer reviews and a track record of delivering high-quality tours

• Flexibility to accommodate special requests or dietary needs upon advance notice

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements the Tour Can Accommodate?

The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements. Organic fruit and healthy snacks are provided, and the guide is able to cater to vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs with advance notice.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour provider often offers custom itineraries and extensions for private groups. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour operator to tailor the experience to their specific needs and interests.

How Many People Typically Participate in the Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so only your group participates. The group size is flexible and can accommodate your preferences. The tour provider offers a personalized experience tailored to your needs.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way at Our Own Pace?

Yes, the tour allows participants to stop for photos at their own pace along the way. The private nature of the tour provides flexibility to accommodate individual interests and preferences during the scenic drive and hike.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum/Maximum Group Sizes?

This tour has no age restrictions, though a moderate fitness level is required. The group size is private, meaning only your party participates. The size is flexible to accommodate your group’s needs.

Recap

The private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road hiking tour from Melbourne offers an unforgettable journey through Australia’s stunning landscapes.

With moderate hikes, opportunities to spot native wildlife, and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, it’s the perfect way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road.

The tour’s inclusions, such as transportation and snacks, make for a seamless and enjoyable adventure.