Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls with Bonorong Wildlife

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines breathtaking waterfalls, lush rainforests, and native wildlife encounters, this tour promises a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty. For around $142 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring three key spots: Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery, Mount Field National Park, and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in certain areas, guided commentary, and transport in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

What we like most about this trip are the accessible nature walks through the rainforest, offering stunning views of Russell Falls, and the chance to get up close with iconic Australian animals at Bonorong. The easy walk to Russell Falls is a highlight, especially with the guide pointing out the towering Swamp Gums and the tallest flowering plant on Earth. Another plus is visiting the historic Salmon Ponds, where the peaceful setting and heritage displays add a charming touch.

However, a notable drawback is the time spent on activities that some travelers might find less engaging, according to a review that mentions about two hours of what they called “useless activities”. This suggests the itinerary may feel somewhat bloated or inefficient for those eager to spend more time in nature and wildlife encounters.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy varied experiences in one day—from wildlife and waterfalls to heritage and rainforest walks—but it may be less appealing for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of Tasmania’s wilderness. If you’re looking for a straightforward, family-friendly outing that covers the essentials, this could work well. But if you prefer longer, more immersive experiences, you might want to consider alternatives.

Key Points

• Diverse stops include heritage ponds, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuary, offering a well-rounded day.
• Comfortable transport with WiFi makes the journey more pleasant.
• Good for wildlife lovers, especially those interested in native Australian animals like the Tasmanian Devil.
• Timing may feel rushed with some less engaging activities, according to reviews.
• Accessible walks make the natural scenery easy to enjoy for most fitness levels.
• Group size is limited to about 30 travelers, balancing intimacy and social atmosphere.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins early with a pick-up around 9:00 am at Brooke Street Pier in Hobart, with the tour usually lasting about 8 hours. The first stop is at Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery and Gardens—a peaceful spot set in historic surroundings. As the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere, it offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s freshwater fishing heritage. The admission is included, and you can take a leisurely hour exploring the heritage displays and grounds.

Next, the journey continues to Mount Field National Park, a highlight for many visitors. Here, we love the easy walk through rainforest that concludes at Russell Falls—a truly photogenic cascade, often called Tasmania’s favorite waterfall. The walk is short and accessible, with the guide pointing out the towering Swamp Gums and other native flora. Expect to spend about two hours here, soaking in the serenity and spotting wildlife. The waterfall’s crystal-clear waters are especially striking after rain, and the setting offers excellent photo opportunities.

The tour then moves to the Mount Field Visitor Centre, where you get a chance to browse exhibits and pick up souvenirs if you wish. It’s a practical stop that helps frame your experience and offers some local insights before heading to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

The final stop is at Bonorong, where you’ll get to see and learn about native animals, including the famous Tasmanian Devil. The hour here is packed with close encounters, making it a memorable experience for all ages. You might appreciate the knowledgeable guides who explain the importance of conservation efforts and the sanctuary’s role in protecting these unique creatures.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned coach with WiFi onboard, which makes the trip comfortable, especially during the drive between locations. The group size is capped at around 30 travelers, striking a decent balance between social interaction and personal space. The pickup service is available only at selected hotels, so it’s worth confirming your location in advance.

The Experience for Different Travelers

You’ll find this tour particularly good if you’re short on time but want a broad overview of Tasmania’s wilderness. The stops are well-chosen for their scenic and cultural value, making it suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who appreciate easy nature walks. But be aware that some reviewers find that the overall schedule includes activities that feel less meaningful, which could leave you wishing for more time enjoying the natural beauty or wildlife.

Price and Value

At $141.68, the price reflects the full-day guided experience, including admissions and transportation. For those seeking a curated introduction to Tasmania’s highlights, it’s a reasonable cost, especially considering the includes like hotel pickup in select locations. However, the perceived value depends on how much you enjoy the planned stops versus the time spent on less engaging activities, as some travelers have noted.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s natural attractions without the hassle of organizing individual visits. Families with children will appreciate the easy walks and wildlife encounters. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, especially interested in seeing Tasmanian Devils, this tour is a solid choice.

However, if you prefer more time in nature or less time in transit and heritage sites, you might find this tour somewhat rushed or overly structured. The review feedback about wasted time suggests that it’s better suited for those happy to accept a somewhat tidy, organized itinerary rather than a deeply immersive experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced introduction to parts of Tasmania’s wilderness, combining waterfalls, rainforest walks, and native animals in one package. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of Tasmania’s natural charm. It’s perfect for those who enjoy easy walks, wildlife interactions, and learning about local conservation efforts—all in a well-organized, comfortable setting.

But if you’re craving more time in the wilderness or a less structured itinerary, you might want to consider other options. The value is fair given the inclusions, but how much you get out of it depends on your expectations for depth and pace.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at selected hotels, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does each stop last?
The Salmon Ponds get about an hour, Mount Field about two hours, and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary roughly one hour, with the visitor center stopping for about 30 minutes.

What should I bring for this tour?
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the rainforest walk, bring water, and dress appropriately for the weather, especially since Tasmania’s weather can change quickly.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, the walks are described as easy, making it accessible for most travelers with moderate fitness levels.

Will I see native animals like the Tasmanian Devil?
Yes, at Bonorong, you’ll have the chance to see and learn about native wildlife, including the iconic Tasmanian Devil.

Are the activities included in the price?
All admissions to Salmon Ponds, Mount Field National Park, and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary are included.

How large are the tour groups?
Groups are limited to around 30 travelers, balancing a friendly atmosphere with enough space to move comfortably.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The easy walk to Russell Falls and the wildlife encounters at Bonorong are often regarded as the highlights.

Can I customize this tour or extend my time at certain stops?
This tour is pre-arranged, so any customization would need to be arranged in advance or via a different provider.

What is the main drawback according to reviews?
Some travelers feel that about two hours are spent on activities they find less worthwhile, which could affect overall satisfaction.

In summary, if you’re eager to see Tasmania’s waterfalls, rainforest, and wildlife without spending too much time planning, this guided tour offers a practical and scenic introduction. It’s especially suited for families, wildlife lovers, and first-timers who appreciate a structured, comfortable day out—just be prepared for a few less engaging moments along the way.