From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour

Imagine stepping back in time on a historic steam train, breathing in crisp mountain air, and then spending time with some of Australia’s most beloved animals. For around $123 per person, this 8-hour adventure takes you out of Melbourne’s hustle and straight into a landscape of lush rainforests and scenic valleys. Led by friendly guides, the trip combines a nostalgic train journey with a wildlife experience at Healesville Sanctuary, making it a fantastic choice for lovers of nature, history, and animal encounters.

What we love about this tour is how it balances scenic views with interactive wildlife encounters. The 1-hour Puffing Billy steam train ride offers a charming glimpse into Victorian railway history, with the added thrill of dangling your legs outside the carriage—a tradition many travelers find both fun and authentic. Afterward, wandering through Healesville Sanctuary provides a chance to see iconic animals like koalas and kangaroos up close, with plenty of time to enjoy the exhibits.

One thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included, so planning for snacks or a picnic might be a good idea. Also, the tour departs early from Melbourne, so if you’re not a morning person, adjusting your schedule might be necessary.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and wildlife — especially those who enjoy guided insights and a well-organized itinerary. Families, solo adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike will find something to love here.

Key Points

• Historic steam train ride: Enjoy a charming, nostalgic journey on Puffing Billy through rainforests and scenic valleys.
• Close wildlife encounters: Visit Healesville Sanctuary to see koalas, kangaroos, and more iconic Australian animals.
• Beautiful scenery: The Dandenong Ranges offer stunning views and lush rainforest walks.
• Expert guides: Tours are led by knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, entry fees, and the train ride, making it a convenient day out.
• Possible considerations: No meals included, so bring snacks; early start time might require adjustments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Victoria’s natural and cultural highlights in a single day. Starting from Melbourne, you’ll meet your guide at the Mail Exchange Hotel or at alternative pickup points around the city, with options for a slightly later pick-up if you prefer, making it flexible for different schedules. The morning begins early, typically with a prompt departure around 9am, giving you a full day of exploration.

The Journey to the Dandenong Ranges

Once on board the comfortable minivan or coach, your guide—whose enthusiasm and knowledge shine through in the reviews—will fill you in on what to expect. The drive to Belgrave, the starting point of the Puffing Billy experience, is scenic and relaxed. Expect to get some useful tips from your guide about what to look out for in the rainforests and valleys, making the journey informative as well as enjoyable.

Puffing Billy Steam Train Ride

The highlight for many is the 1-hour ride on Puffing Billy, which runs from Belgrave to Lakeside. This historic locomotive, built in the early 1900s, still operates today, pulling open-sided carriages that offer fantastic views and a nostalgic feel. Travelers consistently praise the “fun experience” of leaning out of the carriage, with many mentioning how it’s a “step back in time.” As one reviewer notes: “leaning out the open-sided carriages with the wind in my face felt like a step back in time,” which perfectly captures the charm of this journey.

The train traverses through temperate rainforests and lush scenery, with large windows and the option to dangle your legs outside—something many find irresistibly fun. The ash from the steam engine adds a rustic touch, so dressing appropriately and wearing sunglasses to shield your eyes from soot is advisable. Prepare for a sensory experience that’s both visually stunning and somewhat tactile.

Scenic Rainforest and Valley Views

The train offers excellent photo opportunities, especially at points where the train curves through dense forests and over bridges. Many reviews mention how the scenery is breathtaking, with some describing it as “beautiful through the rainforest,” and noting how the views are worth the ride even if you’re not normally a train person.

More Great Tours Nearby

Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary

After the train ride, you’ll head to Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary for a face-to-face encounter with wildlife. The sanctuary is renowned for its collection of native animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and various bird species. Tourists often praise the bird shows and the chance to see animals in naturalistic environments. Several reviews mention that the sanctuary is “great fun” and that seeing koalas for the first time remains a standout memory for many.

Some suggestions from reviews include considering whether to buy tickets to feed the kangaroos—something that isn’t included but could enhance the experience. The sanctuary’s layout allows enough time for photos, souvenir shopping, and relaxing cafes.

Additional Scenery and Convenience

The drive back to Melbourne usually includes scenic stops or a comfortable ride with plenty of commentary from your guide. The entire day is well-paced, with enough breaks to stretch, grab a snack, or just enjoy the views. Many travelers appreciate the smooth organization of the trip, as noted by those praising guides like LeeLee or Matt for their enthusiasm and helpfulness.

What to Expect and Practical Details

The tour price of $123 includes all transportation, wildlife park entry, and the 1-hour Puffing Billy train ride. It does not include food or drinks, so bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks is wise. The meeting point at the Mail Exchange Hotel is central and convenient, with alternatives at Southbank, Regent Theatre, or Her Majesty’s Theatre, making it adaptable for different schedules.

The tour lasts about 8 hours, typically starting early in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon. This makes it suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive day out without feeling rushed. The small group atmosphere (with reviews mentioning groups of around 23 people) ensures that guides can give personalized attention, answer questions, and keep the pace engaging.

The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep things lively. Whether it’s sharing anecdotes about the steam engine or pointing out wildlife, they significantly enhance the experience.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

Considering what’s included—transport, entry fees, and the train ride—the tour hits a sweet spot in terms of value. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and informative the trip is, with guides going above and beyond to ensure everyone has a good time. The combination of scenic train travel and animal encounters offers a well-rounded view of Victoria’s natural charm, especially for those who don’t want to spend hours planning multiple activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in Victorian history or scenic landscapes. If you enjoy guided tours that offer both entertainment and education, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to see native Australian wildlife in a relaxed setting, combined with a charming train journey that feels both nostalgic and exhilarating.

While it’s a full day, the pace is manageable, making it suitable for most fitness levels. If you prefer meals included or a more leisurely schedule, you might want to prepare accordingly, but for most, the experience offers good value and a memorable adventure.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring some snacks or plan to buy something at the sanctuary or along the way.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and since the train ride involves open-sided carriages, sunglasses and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable. Dressing in layers is smart, especially if rain is forecast.

Can I dangle my legs outside the train?
Yes, many travelers, as confirmed in reviews, enjoy hanging their legs outside the open-sided carriages for the full experience.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride lasts approximately 1 hour, from Belgrave to Lakeside.

What is the pickup process?
You meet at the Mail Exchange Hotel at 9 am, with options for alternative pickup points around Melbourne, which need to be confirmed via email 72 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children and having a great time, especially enjoying the train and wildlife encounters.

Are there enough breaks?
Yes, the itinerary includes breaks for coffee, light breakfast, or lunch, making the day comfortable and flexible.

How large are the groups?
Groups typically consist of around 23 people, ensuring a friendly and manageable experience.

What’s the main highlight?
Most travelers agree it’s the nostalgic steam train ride combined with the chance to see Australian animals face-to-face at the sanctuary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, nostalgic travel, and native wildlife encounters—all within a manageable day trip from Melbourne. The knowledgeable guides and smooth organization add to the experience, making it ideal for those looking to see Australia’s natural wonders without the hassle of multiple bookings. While packing your own snacks and planning for weather variations are wise, most travelers find this trip to be excellent value for the memories it creates.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a fun, scenic escape, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Victoria’s treasures. It’s a day that will leave you with lasting impressions of the natural beauty and friendly wildlife that Australia has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: