South Australia shines brightest when it comes to full-day touring options. Unlike other regions that focus mainly on scenic drives or quick visits, South Australia offers immersive experiences that go deep into its renowned wine regions, rugged outback, and charming towns. Whether you’re a wine lover eager to explore premium vineyards, a cruise passenger wanting a tailored day out, or an adventure seeker craving the wild outback, this state has something for you. We particularly enjoy the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour because it combines luxury, intimate tastings, and a region famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours that cater to different interests and budgets. From exclusive private outings to organized cruise excursions and outback adventures, each offers a distinct perspective of South Australia’s diverse landscape. Read on for our carefully curated list of the best full-day tours in the region.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of luxury private wine tours, like the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour, a cruise-friendly wine tasting experience in the Barossa Valley, a customizable private tour ideal for cruise passengers wanting flexibility, and a scenic outback adventure exploring the Painted Desert. Each offers a different way to experience South Australia’s highlights, ensuring there’s something for all.
1. Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour With Lunch
At number 1, this luxurious private wine tour perfectly combines indulgence with comfort. Priced at around $220 per person, it’s a full six-and-a-half hours of exploration in the famous Coonawarra region, renowned for its terra rossa soil and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Your journey is made special by traveling in a Mercedes-Benz V-Class, ensuring privacy and style.
The tour includes visits to up to five cellar doors, like Parker Estate, Zema Estate, Ottelia, and Wynns Coonawarra Estate. Each winery offers a unique peek into winemaking traditions, with private tastings and engaging conversations with passionate winemakers. Highlights include tasting award-winning wines and enjoying a set menu lunch at Ottelia, which pairs seasonal dishes with regional wines.
This tour stands out for its personalized experience and emphasis on quality over quantity. Reviewers love the friendly staff and the luxurious transport, with one noting it as “one of the best wine tours” they’ve been on. For those seeking a relaxed, intimate day with excellent wine and food, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and exclusive tastings. Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a premium experience.
2. Shore Excursion: Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour
At number 2, this tour is designed exclusively for cruise ship passengers, offering a well-timed experience in Barossa Valley—one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. Priced at about $146, it’s an 8-hour adventure that aligns perfectly with your ship’s schedule, so you won’t miss your departure.
The day includes stops at Kersbrook Hill Wines & Cider, a family-owned boutique winery, and the Barossa Valley Chocolate Factory, a treat for the senses. The highlight is visiting Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, a culinary destination where you can sample locally made treats and learn about the region’s food culture. The tour concludes with a visit to Chateau Dorrien, a family-run winery with a rich history.
Guests praise the smooth organization and the opportunity to visit renowned spots without the hassle of planning. One reviewer calls the tour “a great alternative to the ship’s standard excursions.” The value lies in combining wine, food, and charming towns in a compact day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a relaxed, well-organized day that offers authentic local flavors and scenic stops.
3. Full Day VIP Private Tour (Cruise Passengers Only)
Number 3 is a fully customizable private tour tailored for cruise passengers, offering the flexibility to explore the wine regions, charming towns like Hahndorf, or even scenic coastal spots like Victor Harbor. With a price of around $577 for up to four people, this tour offers a truly bespoke experience lasting 6 to 8 hours.
The key feature is flexibility. You can choose whether to focus on the Barossa Valley, the Adelaide Hills, or even make a scenic drive along the coast. For those who wish to include a lunch at the Haus Restaurant in Hahndorf or enjoy leisurely winery visits, the itinerary can be adjusted on the fly. Pickup and drop-off are arranged around your ship’s schedule, making this a stress-free way to see South Australia at your own pace.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to craft their ideal day. The guide’s local knowledge and ability to adapt make it a favorite for travelers seeking a highly tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting complete control over their day, especially cruise passengers with specific interests or time constraints.
$577.00 per group (up to 4)
4. Full day The Painted Desert Tour in Outback South Australia
Number 4 takes you off the beaten path to explore the stunning Painted Desert in Outback South Australia. Priced at approximately $217 per person, this 10-hour journey begins in Coober Pedy, famous for its underground dwellings and moon-like landscapes. The tour includes stops at the Arckaringa Hills, Moon Plains, and the Breakaways country, showcasing the dramatic geological formations and vibrant colors shaped by ancient seas and erosion.
Led by experienced guides, you’ll walk through this remote landscape, seeing majestic mesas and unique formations that look like they belong on another planet. The tour offers a look into the natural beauty of South Australia’s outback, with plenty of photo opportunities and some free time to explore.
Guests love the comprehensive itinerary and the informative guides who bring the landscape to life. The tour is ideal for those interested in geology, photography, or simply wanting a full day immersed in natural wonder.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure travelers eager to experience South Australia’s rugged outback and geological marvels, with a full day of exploration and scenery.
$217.22 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect South Australian Full-Day Tour
Deciding between these options depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. If you’re after a luxurious, intimate wine experience, the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour offers unmatched comfort and quality. For cruise travelers, the Barossa Valley Wine Tour provides a well-organized, scenic day with food and wine highlights. The VIP Private Tour is best if you want a fully customizable experience, while the Painted Desert caters to those craving natural landscapes and geological wonders.
Consider your budget: private tours tend to cost more but offer more personalized service. If your time is limited, a well-organized cruise excursion might be best. Think about your interests: wine lovers will gravitate toward the vineyards, while adventure seekers should opt for the outback trek.
Booking early is a good idea, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and tour type.
Final Thoughts
South Australia offers a wide array of full-day tours that showcase its vineyards, countryside, and rugged outback. For a luxurious wine day, the Private Coonawarra Tour is hard to beat. If you’re a cruise passenger, the Barossa Valley provides a convenient, flavorful adventure. And for those who want to escape into nature, the Painted Desert delivers breathtaking scenery and geological marvels.
No matter your choice, early booking is recommended to secure your spot. South Australia’s diverse landscapes and rich flavors make for memorable full-day adventures—so pick the one that suits your style and get ready for a fantastic day in this remarkable part of Australia.