Hobart: Mt Wellington, Mt Field, Bonorong and Richmond Trip

Imagine a day where you get to stand atop a mountain, stroll past giant waterfalls, cuddle a kangaroo, and wander through a charming historic town—all in one trip. That’s exactly what this 9-hour adventure from Hobart offers, expertly organized by iWander Tasmania. For just $118 per person, you’re whisked through some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

We’ve found this tour especially appealing because of its focus on Tasmania’s wildlife and natural beauty—you’ll be hand-feeding kangaroos, meeting Tasmanian Devils, and marveling at lush rainforest and waterfalls. Plus, the visit to Mt Wellington delivers jaw-dropping views, weather permitting, which many reviews note as a highlight.

One little caution—the Mt Wellington summit depends on weather conditions, so if clouds roll in or roads are icy, your panoramic vista might be limited. Still, the overall experience is well worth it, especially if you love outdoor adventures, wildlife, and picturesque towns. This trip suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s diverse scenery.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Tasmania’s top sights in a single day.
• Expert guides like Brett and Scott receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Wildlife experiences, including hand-feeding kangaroos and meeting Tasmanian Devils, add a special touch.
• Stunning scenery at Mt Field and Mt Wellington offers memorable photo opportunities.
• Good value for money with all entrance fees included and a well-organized schedule.
• Small groups ensure a more personal, flexible experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tasmania in a Day: An Authentic Overview

Planning a day trip that hits all the major highlights can seem ambitious, but this tour manages it smoothly, giving you a taste of Tasmania’s wild beauty and cultural charm. The journey begins early in the morning with pickup from your Hobart hotel—most conveniently from central locations like the Grand Chancellor or Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre. This punctual pickup, between 7:35 and 7:50 am, gets you into the scenic Derwent Valley quickly, where the landscape begins to reveal Tasmania’s lush and rugged character.

The Drive Through Derwent Valley

The tour’s opening stretch offers a chance to admire the countryside. As you drive past Australia’s oldest operating pub, your guide will start sharing stories—not just about the sights but Tasmania’s history and local legends. Many reviewers mention how guides like Brett and Scott enrich the trip with their enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge.

Mt. Field National Park and Russell Falls

Next up is Mt. Field National Park, famed for its waterfalls and ancient forests. Russell Falls, a favorite among visitors, is a perfect short hike—easy enough for most, yet stunning enough to justify the trip. You’ll walk underneath enormous fern forests and among some of the world’s tallest trees, which makes for both a photo op and a peaceful nature break.

Reviewers consistently praise Mt. Field’s scenery, with comments like, “beautiful landscapes and incredible trees,” and “spectacular waterfalls within easy walking distance.” Be prepared for some walking and don’t forget water and comfortable shoes.

Lunch and Historic New Norfolk

After exploring the rainforest and waterfalls, your guide will lead you to New Norfolk for a quick history lesson. This charming town once thrived on timber and agriculture, and it still displays that heritage with friendly pubs and historic buildings. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and enjoy local food before the next wildlife encounter.

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Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream

By mid-afternoon, it’s time for Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you get up close to Tasmania’s iconic creatures. The reviews highlight hand-feeding kangaroos as a true highlight, along with meeting Tasmanian Devils—a rare opportunity. Visitors often comment on how knowledgeable guides like Hans and Brett make the experience come alive, explaining animal rescue stories and conservation efforts.

Many reviews mention a delightful sense of connection when feeding and observing animals that are often endangered or rescued. Bonorong’s work supporting and caring for animals adds a meaningful aspect to the visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Mount Wellington: Panoramic Views (Weather-Dependent)

The trip culminates with a drive to Mt Wellington, where the views are breathtaking—if the weather cooperates. The summit offers sweeping vistas over Hobart and the surrounding landscape. Several reviews mention the spectacular scenery and crisp air, describing it as a highlight. However, some note that weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for clouds, wind, or even cold temperatures, especially if the roads are icy or closed.

The Charm of Richmond

Finally, the tour visits Richmond, a picture-perfect town with historic buildings, a well-preserved bridge, and quaint cafes. Many reviewers find Richmond to be the perfect spot for a relaxed stroll, a quick coffee, and some photos of its old-world charm.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day starts bright and early, with most travelers being picked up from central Hobart locations. The ride through Derwent Valley is scenic, setting the tone for the day ahead. The driver’s commentary often adds historical context, which enhances the sightseeing.

Mt. Field National Park and Russell Falls

Upon arrival, you’ll have about an hour to explore. The short walk to Russell Falls is accessible, but it’s also a chance to breathe in Tasmania’s clean mountain air. Many reviews describe the rainforest walk as “beautiful” and “incredible,” with towering trees and lush fern growth. This is a real highlight for nature lovers who enjoy a gentle walk amid ancient forest.

Lunch and New Norfolk

A quick stop in New Norfolk allows for a sit-down meal or a snack. Many travelers love the opportunity to try local food and enjoy the peaceful environment of this historic town. It’s a nice contrast to the wilderness and offers a window into Tasmania’s past.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

The wildlife sanctuary is a must-see. Visitors love that they can interact directly with animals—hand-feeding kangaroos and spotting the elusive Tasmanian Devil. The sanctuary’s focus on rescue and conservation adds depth to the experience, making it more meaningful than just a tourist attraction. Many describe their visit here as “amazing,” “interesting,” and “heartwarming.” Guides like Brett and Hans are praised for their passion and knowledge, making animal encounters even more engaging.

Mount Wellington

The ascent to Mt Wellington (weather permitting) offers panoramic views that are often described as breathtaking. The mountain’s rugged terrain and cool climate provide a stark contrast to the lush rainforest below, showcasing Tasmania’s diverse landscape.

Richmond

The final stop in Richmond is a lovely walk through history. With its well-preserved buildings and bridge, it’s a perfect place to wind down, take photos, and enjoy some local treats. Several reviews mention Richmond as a “highlight,” especially for those interested in Tasmania’s colonial architecture.

Evaluating the Value

While $118 might seem steep for a day trip, reviews consistently emphasize the value for money. All entrance fees are included, and the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide saves you the hassle of planning individual visits. The small-group feel, often praised in reviews, ensures you get personalized attention and flexibility.

The tour strikes a good balance between guided commentary and free time—many reviewers mention how guides like Brett and Scott go beyond just facts, sharing stories and personal insights that enrich the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for wildlife lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs who appreciate a well-rounded view of Tasmania. It’s also ideal for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their experience without renting a car or planning multiple excursions.

If you enjoy scenic walks, wildlife encounters, and charming towns, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if weather at Mt Wellington is poor, you might miss out on the stunning views, so flexible travelers should be prepared for that possibility.

Final Thoughts

This Hobart day trip delivers an enjoyable blend of nature, wildlife, and history, with most reviews praising its well-organized schedule and passionate guides. It offers a taste of Tasmania’s diverse scenery—from mountain summits to rainforest floors—and creates opportunities for genuine animal interactions.

While it’s not a wilderness expedition for the hardcore hiker, it strikes a satisfying balance for those wanting to see the best of Tasmania without spending days away from Hobart. The experience is especially valuable for first-timers or anyone eager to learn about Tasmania’s unique environment and rich wildlife.

If you’re after a fun, informative, and scenic day out that covers Tasmania’s top highlights and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting early in the morning with pickup around 7:35 am and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
All entry fees—like those for Russell Falls and Bonorong Sanctuary—and transportation are included. You’ll need to bring your own food and drinks.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Brett, Scott, and Hans for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendly approach.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking at Mt. Field and possibly at Mt Wellington if weather allows.

Is Mt Wellington accessible?
Yes, but the summit depends on weather. Cloud cover or icy roads might limit visibility or accessibility.

Can I visit Richmond?
Absolutely. Richmond’s historic buildings and bridge are a highlight, perfect for a relaxed stroll and photos.

What about wildlife?
You can expect to feed kangaroos and see Tasmanian Devils, which many reviewers say is a memorable part of the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most families find it enjoyable, especially wildlife and scenery. However, check the walking distance and weather conditions for comfort.

How crowded are the groups?
Most reviews mention small, friendly groups, which allows for a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, this Hobart day trip offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural charm. It’s perfect for those wanting to make the most of their day in Tasmania without feeling rushed, and the enthusiastic guides make each stop engaging and informative. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a landscape lover, or simply eager to see Tasmania’s highlights, this tour provides a memorable and worthwhile experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: