Melbourne’s diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for Hiking and Trekking Tours, offering everything from rugged mountain vistas to serene coastline. Unlike many other cities, Melbourne’s proximity to national parks like the Grampians and Wilsons Promontory means you can experience wilderness just a short drive away. We particularly love tours that combine wildlife encounters—like spotting kangaroos or koalas—with breathtaking views, such as the Balconies rock formation or Mt. Oberon. For example, the Small-Group Grampians Great Wildlife Escape Day Trip offers a well-rounded experience with hiking, wildlife spotting, and aboriginal cultural insights.
If you’re after a coastal adventure, the Wilsons Promontory Hiking Day Tour provides stunning ocean views and two engaging hikes, including one up Mt. Oberon with spectacular marine vistas. For those seeking a mix of mountains and beaches, the Mornington Peninsula Hike and Hot Springs Day Tour combines scenic coastal walks with relaxing dips in natural hot springs. Smaller, more personalized tours like these are ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible, intimate experience with expert guides.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each of the nine top hiking and trekking options around Melbourne, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you choose the perfect adventure.
1. Small-Group Grampians Great Wildlife Escape Day Trip with Hiking
At number 1, this full-day tour takes you deep into Grampians National Park, a place known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The tour begins early from Melbourne, with a stop at Beaufort for morning tea before heading into the park. Your guide will lead you to major viewpoints like Reeds Lookout and Boroka Lookout, which offer sweeping valley vistas. You’ll bushwalk through diverse habitats, increasing your chances of spotting kangaroos, emus, and native birds.
A highlight is visiting the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the area’s indigenous rock art and cultural traditions. The tour also includes stops at MacKenzie Falls and other waterfalls for photo ops and a chance to cool off. This tour’s small-group setting—max 24 people—means more personalized attention and flexibility.
What makes this trip stand out is its combo of wildlife, scenery, and cultural education all in one day. While the price of around $105 and 12.5 hours of activity offers great value, the focus on genuine wildlife sightings and the chance to learn about indigenous heritage make it a top pick for nature lovers.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a full experience of mountain vistas, native wildlife, and cultural insights with a friendly group.
2. Wilsons Promontory Hiking Day Tour – 8 Person Max Small Group
Number 2 on our list offers an immersive day of coastal hiking and mountain exploration at Wilsons Promontory, one of Victoria’s most beloved parks. This tour includes two scenic hikes: one from Tidal River to Little Oberon Bay, and another to the summit of Mt. Oberon. The tour’s focus on small group size (max 8) allows for personalized guides and quicker access to the best spots.
The tour kicks off with a visit to the Big Drift—an impressive sand dune system—followed by the 6.8 km return trek to Mt. Oberon, which rewards you with stunning coastal and island views. Afterwards, you’ll relax on Squeaky Beach, renowned for its white quartz sand that squeaks underfoot. Snacks and entrance fees are included, making it a hassle-free adventure.
Reviewers often mention how the mountain vistas and beach scenery combine to create a truly memorable experience. The guide’s insights add depth to the natural beauty, and the manageable distances make it accessible for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking mountain peaks and coastal charm in a small group, with all logistics sorted for you.
3. Small Group (8 ppl) – Grampians Hiking Day Tour from Melbourne
Number 3 offers a convenient full-day trip into the Grampians, with a focus on hiking on two trails. This tour includes visits to iconic spots like the Pinnacles, MacKenzie Falls, and Boroka Lookout. The small-group format—up to 8 participants—ensures a relaxed pace and personalized guidance.
Hiking two trails in one day is a good option for active travelers who want to maximize outdoor time without the hassle of planning. The Pinnacles hike is about 4.2 km and moderately challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. MacKenzie Falls offers a shorter but steep 2 km trail, culminating in one of Victoria’s most beautiful waterfalls. Your guide takes care of all logistics, so you’re free to focus on the scenic views and wildlife sightings.
Reviewers note that the guide is knowledgeable, and the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate different paces. The price of $148.48 for 12 hours includes all entrance fees and snacks, making it a good deal.
Bottom line: Suited for active, independent travelers who appreciate hiking with expert guidance and a hassle-free experience.
4. Mornington Peninsula Hike and Hot Springs Day Tour – 8 people max
Number 4 combines scenic coastal hikes with relaxation at one of Victoria’s premier hot springs. Starting with a morning tea break at Arthur’s Seat, you’ll then hike through Bushrangers Bay, a rugged stretch with rocky shoreline, a lighthouse, and abundant birdlife. The tour continues with a walk at Cape Schanck Lighthouse before winding down at the Peninsula Hot Springs, famous for its natural thermal pools.
This tour is especially appealing for those who want diversity in their day—nature walks, a scenic lighthouse, and a relaxing soak. It’s limited to 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience, and the price of $189.16 includes all entrance and park fees, plus a plant-based lunch. The hike along Bushrangers Bay is about 8 km round trip and showcases real coastal scenery.
Reviewers repeatedly praise the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, as well as the inclusion of hot springs as a perfect finish. The mix of adventure and relaxation makes this ideal for those wanting a full but not overwhelming day in nature.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want coastal hiking paired with hot springs relaxation in a small-group setting.
5. Melbourne wildlife nature hike with Kangaroos and sunset picnic!
Number 5 offers a unique wildlife-focused evening experience. This small-group tour explores the Yarra Valley, where you can see kangaroos, koalas, and local birdlife while enjoying an outdoor picnic at sunset. The tour begins at a fruit farm for fresh supplies, then moves into Mount Lofty State Park for a scenic 5 km hike along the river and up to a viewpoint.
The highlight is the sunset picnic, where you can unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the region. Transport is included, removing any worry about driving. The tour is designed for adults and emphasizes food, drink, and wildlife, making it perfect for nature-loving foodies.
Reviewers appreciate the informative guide, the casual outdoor setting, and the chance to see native wildlife in their natural habitat. The tour’s price—about $101.86—reflects its focus on combining nature and casual dining, rather than intense hiking.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who prefer wildlife, good food, and a relaxed sunset rather than strenuous hikes.
6. Small Tour (8 ppl) Phillip Island Hike & Penguin Parade Day Tour
Number 6 is a compact day out that combines hiking with wildlife viewing on Phillip Island. Starting with a scenic walk along Cape Woolamai’s rugged coast, you’ll explore rock formations known as the Pinnacles. Afterward, the tour visits the Koala Conservation Reserve and the Nobbies Centre for coastal views and wildlife spotting.
The trip culminates with the Penguin Parade at sunset, where hundreds of penguins waddle ashore after a day at sea. The tour’s small group size (up to 8) ensures a more personal experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the island’s unique ecosystem. The total cost, roughly $189, includes all entry fees, snacks, and lunch.
Guests praise the variety of wildlife encounters along with the stunning landscapes. The combination of coastal hikes, koala sightings, and the famous penguin parade makes this a well-rounded day for animal enthusiasts and nature hikers alike.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a mix of hiking, wildlife, and iconic Australian experiences in one day.
7. Private Mornington Peninsula Hike and Hot Springs Tour
Number 7 offers the luxury of a customized private tour. You can design your day around your interests, whether that’s more coastal walking, scenic views, or relaxing in the hot springs. Starting at Arthur’s Seat with panoramic ocean vistas, the tour then takes you to Bushrangers Bay for a scenic 8 km round trip hike, followed by a smaller walk at Cape Schanck.
The highlight is the lunch at an award-winning cafe, plus the hot springs experience. Your guide ensures a flexible pace, so you can spend more time at the spots that interest you most. This tour is perfect for families, groups, or couples seeking a bespoke experience, with a price of around $1,005 for up to 8 people.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the ability to customize destinations. The flexibility makes it suitable for a range of fitness levels and interests.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want full control over their day and enjoy luxury, privacy, and customized experiences.
8. Phillip Island: Hike and Penguin Parade – 8 pax Small Tour
Number 8 combines coastal hikes and wildlife encounters in a small-group setting. Starting with a walk along Cape Woolamai’s rocky coast, you’ll explore the famous Pinnacles rock formations. The tour then visits the Nobbies Centre for breathtaking views and wildlife spotting, including kangaroos and koalas.
The tour’s highlight is the Penguin Parade at sunset, when you watch hundreds of penguins emerge from the sea. The small group size allows for more interaction and a relaxed pace. This tour offers good value at roughly $184, with all entrance fees included.
Perfect for travelers who want a combination of hiking and wildlife, it gives a well-rounded look at Phillip Island’s varied scenery and animal residents.
Bottom line: Suited for those who want a peaceful, wildlife-filled day with the memorable penguin parade as a finale.
$184 per person
9. 4 Day Mornington Peninsula Treks
Number 9 is a longer, multi-day experience, ideal for serious hikers and nature enthusiasts. Over four days, you’ll explore Point Nepean, Sorrento, and Bushrangers Bay, with plenty of time to enjoy flora, fauna, and local attractions like beaches and hot springs. The itinerary allows for relaxed pacing and is designed for all ages with a reasonable fitness level.
This extensive trek offers a deeper dive into the Peninsula’s landscapes, including walking through historic sites, forests, and coastal cliffs. Each day includes lunch and free time for relaxing or exploring further.
While the price reflects the length and depth of the experience, this is more suited for serious hikers or those wanting to enjoy nature over several days. Reviewers who have taken this trip mention the opportunity to “enjoy flora and fauna without feeling rushed,” making it ideal for those wanting a slow-paced adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for dedicated hikers seeking a comprehensive, multi-day exploration of Melbourne’s nearby natural environments.
$1,477.54 per person
How to Choose the Best Hiking and Trekking Tour in Melbourne
When selecting your ideal outdoor adventure, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interests. For a quick escape into wildlife and waterfalls, the Small-Group Grampians Great Wildlife Escape Day Trip offers great value. If coastal scenery and mountain views are your priority, the Wilsons Promontory Hiking Day Tour shines with its small-group intimacy and stunning vistas.
For those seeking a luxury or private experience, the Private Mornington Peninsula Hike and Hot Springs Tour allows customization, ideal for families or couples. Budget travelers should consider options like the Small-Group Grampians or Phillip Island Tours which offer comprehensive day trips at a reasonable price.
Timing is also key—these tours run year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder weather and better wildlife viewing. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy the best of Melbourne’s outdoor treasures.
To sum it up, Melbourne’s outdoor scene provides something for all—whether a quick wildlife-filled day, coastal hikes, or multi-day treks. If you’re after adventure, scenery, and local wildlife, the options above give you a variety of ways to explore this natural wonderland. Consider your interests and fitness level, and you’ll find a tour that makes the most of your time in Victoria’s vibrant outdoor playground. Remember, some of the best trips fill quickly, so booking early is always a good idea.