Port Macquarie day tour to Ellenborough Falls & Comboyne Rock

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Port Macquarie: Ellenborough Falls & Comboyne Rock

If you’re after a day full of natural beauty, this private tour from Port Macquarie to Ellenborough Falls and Comboyne Rock offers an engaging mix of majestic waterfalls, breathtaking lookout points, and charming rural towns. Priced at around $108.61 per person for an roughly 8-hour journey, this experience combines comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery in ways that big group tours often can’t match. What’s especially appealing is the personalized touch: you get to decide how long to linger at each spot, and the private transport allows access to areas larger groups might find off-limits.

Two aspects stand out. First, the expert guidance, which is praised for local knowledge and a friendly attitude—one reviewer called the guide “great fun,” adding a personal element to the adventure. Second, the stunning scenery—from the towering Ellenborough Falls plunging over 200 meters to the sweeping views from Comboyne Rock, this tour is a visual feast.

One consideration to keep in mind is the 8-hour duration with plenty of driving off the beaten path. If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long hours on the road, this might be something to prepare for. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of exploring nature’s quieter corners, especially those who love the outdoors, photography, and small-town charm.

This tour is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a tailored day out that highlights some of New South Wales’ most impressive natural sights, away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allowing you to decide how long to stay at each location
• Access to exclusive areas that larger groups might not reach, thanks to private transportation
• Spectacular scenery at Ellenborough Falls and Comboyne Rock, offering great photo opportunities
• Knowledgeable guides who share local insights and keep the day fun and informative
• Comfortable, modern transport with air conditioning and flexibility to bring your music or relax in peace
• Longer day with lots of driving—ideal for those who love exploration but worth considering if you prefer a slower pace

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

You’ll meet your guide at the Port Macquarie Coach Stop at 9:00 am, ready for a full day of adventure. The tour lasts about eight hours, which includes scenic stops, some walking, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the views. The journey is designed for comfort—traveling in modern, air-conditioned vehicles—and because it’s a private tour, your group gets the exclusive benefit of a flexible itinerary.

Ellenborough Falls: Majestic Waterfall and Scenic Views

The first stop, Ellenborough Falls, is a highlight that truly lives up to its reputation. As one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s an awe-inspiring sight. Over 200 meters of cascading water creates a thunderous roar that resonates deep within you. It’s a scene that demands a camera, with well-maintained viewing platforms offering multiple angles to capture the power and beauty of the falls.

What makes Ellenborough Falls particularly special is the chance to get close—if you choose to take the walking trail to the base of the falls, you’ll feel the refreshing mist and appreciate the raw strength of the water. Many visitors describe the experience as “mesmerising,” and several reviews mention how the falls are a perfect spot for photos—“stunning scenery and great photo opportunities” was a common refrain.

Flexibility and Personalization

The tour’s small, private format means you’re not stuck with a rigid schedule. One review appreciated that the itinerary was “well planned, offering stunning scenery, great photo opportunities, and a relaxed pace.” You can decide how long you want to spend at Ellenborough, making it great for those who love to linger and take their time. Whether you want to soak in the view or snap every shot possible, your guide will accommodate.

Lunch in Comboyne: Charm and Local Life

After the waterfall, your journey continues to the charming rural town of Comboyne. Here, you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some local flavor—although lunch isn’t included in the tour price, the stop provides an excellent opportunity to explore or pick up a snack. The town’s relaxed vibe offers a nice break from the drive, with a chance to browse shops or just enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

Comboyne Rock: Breathtaking Vistas

As you head back toward Port Macquarie, the tour’s highlight is the Comboyne Rock lookout. Offering 360-degree views, this spot is truly breathtaking—rolling hills, dense forests, and distant coastlines come together in a sweeping panorama. Tourists and locals alike appreciate the visual feast—one reviewer pointed out that the views “are fantastic,” and they’re right. It’s an ideal place to snap photos, relax, and take in the natural beauty.

Cultural and Natural Significance

Beyond the scenery, Comboyne Rock also holds historical and cultural significance, adding depth to your visit. The natural environment around the lookout is teeming with native wildlife, making it an enriching experience for those interested in local flora and fauna.

What Our Reviewers Loved Most

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable, friendly guides—“Ian is a great host, friendly and knowledgeable”—who make the day both fun and informative. The stunning scenery at both stops and the chance to explore hidden areas that are inaccessible to larger groups** are recurring praises.

Another reviewer noted, “This trip is amazing. As locals, we saw places we could never get to by ourselves, and our visitor from London was blown away.” This underscores the value of having a local guide who knows the best spots and can tailor the experience.

Practical Details and Value

At $108.61 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the private nature and personalized service. The tour includes transportation, bottled water, and the convenience of pickup from Port Macquarie, making it a stress-free day. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly, but there are plenty of options in Comboyne or you might bring a picnic.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the long duration—8 hours including travel time and scenic stops. If you prefer shorter outings or are sensitive to long days, this could be tiring. Also, since the tour involves off-road driving and some walking, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and uneven terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a personalized day exploring natural wonders at their own pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, local insights, and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re a photographer or landscape enthusiast, the stops at Ellenborough Falls and Comboyne Rock are perfect for capturing memorable images.

It’s also a great option for locals or repeat visitors looking to discover hidden gems without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads. The guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach makes it accessible for all ages and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and the flexible timing allows you to plan activities that suit children or vary your pace.

How long is the drive to Ellenborough Falls?
The entire day involves some driving off the main roads, in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, but the exact drive time depends on your starting point and stops.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops in Comboyne where you can purchase food or bring your own.

Can I listen to my own music during the trip?
Yes, the vehicle allows for your own music choices if you prefer to relax or sing along during the drive.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves some walking, the main viewpoints at Ellenborough Falls and Comboyne Rock are accessible from viewing platforms. If you have specific needs, it’s best to contact the operator beforehand.

What is the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, offering a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, sun protection, and perhaps a light snack or water bottle for the day.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to bad weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Final Thoughts

This private Port Macquarie tour to Ellenborough Falls and Comboyne Rock offers a compelling mix of spectacular scenery, expert guidance, and flexible planning. Better suited for those who enjoy longer nature excursions and stunning viewpoints, it provides a chance to discover parts of New South Wales that are often overlooked by larger tours.

If you’re after a personalized, comfortable day out with authentic experiences and breathtaking vistas, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s especially rewarding for photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager to explore at their own pace and see some of the region’s most impressive natural sights.

For anyone seeking a full day of scenic beauty and cultural insights in a private setting, this tour from Port Macquarie offers excellent value and memorable moments. Just be prepared for a day on the road, and you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural riches.