From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

A Day on the Great Ocean Road: An In-Depth Look at the Wildlife, Coastline, and Iconic Sites

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and crave a taste of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery, this Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, and Wildlife Tour might just be your best bet. For around $56, you’ll spend about 13.5 hours exploring one of the world’s most photogenic coastlines, with plenty of wildlife encounters and iconic sights along the way. Led by experienced guides—many of whom receive glowing reviews—this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Victoria’s stunning natural beauty.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances notable landmarks like the 12 Apostles with genuine wildlife sightings, such as koalas and parrots in their natural habitat. The inclusion of a guided forest walk through towering trees adds a quiet but powerful connection to the land. On the flip side, the long day means most travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of time in the vehicle, which can be tiring if you’re not a fan of bus travel.

This tour suits anyone looking to see the highlights without the stress of planning, especially solo travelers or small groups eager for lively, knowledgeable guides. It’s also ideal for those who value authentic wildlife encounters and picture-perfect scenery in one trip.

Key Points

• Value for Money: Affordable price for a well-rounded day trip filled with wildlife, scenic vistas, and iconic sites.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who are praised for their friendliness, humor, and local expertise.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see koalas, parrots, and even kangaroos in their natural environment.
• Stunning Stops: From the 12 Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge, every stop offers postcard-worthy views.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport with included morning tea, plus hotel pickup makes the day stress-free.
• Limited Food Options: Lunch is not included, so plan to purchase your own in Apollo Bay or bring snacks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Great Ocean Road with Local Guides

This tour offers more than just sightseeing — it’s about connecting with the land, wildlife, and the stories behind these famous sights. Starting with pickup from Melbourne CBD hotels, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ready to spend your day along the coast. Many travelers mention that the tour app provides commentary in multiple languages, ensuring you won’t miss a detail, even if you’re not fluent in English.

The Coastal Highlights

Your first stops will set the tone for the day. At Torquay Surf Beach, you’ll get a chance to see iconic beaches and breathe in the fresh seaside air. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and imagine the surf culture that makes the area famous. Next, the Bells Surfing Beach offers similar coastal vistas—great for photos and soaking up the unique atmosphere of Australia’s surfing mecca.

The Road to the Pole House

One of the unique architectural highlights is the Pole House, perched 40 meters above the ground and seemingly suspended over the cliffs. It’s the most photographed house on the Great Ocean Road and provides a fantastic backdrop for selfies. The guide usually takes a roadside photo here, and many reviews note how this spot captures the imagination.

Wildlife Encounters: Koalas and Parrots

A real highlight is the chance to see koalas and parrots in their natural environment. Guides take you to prime viewing spots—some reviewers say that their guides went the extra mile, even taking them to multiple places when wildlife was elusive. Several reviews praise guides like Warren, Felix, and Theo for their knack for wildlife spotting, making these moments memorable. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of kangaroos, which many travelers find to be a highlight.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Coastline and the 12 Apostles

The Gibson Steps allow you to see the limestone stacks from sea level, giving an immersive perspective of these natural formations. If tide and wind permit, you’ll be able to get close enough to feel like you could reach out and touch the 12 Apostles—unquestionably the most iconic feature of the tour. These towering limestone stacks are a photographer’s dream, with many reviews emphasizing the jaw-dropping scenery and the opportunity for stunning photos.

Loch Ard Gorge — Natural Marvels

The final stop, Loch Ard Gorge, is famed for its dramatic rock formations and history. The site features jagged razorbacks and the Island Archway, which collapsed in 2009 but still leaves striking stacks standing nearby. Many reviewers describe it as a “magnificent formation,” and ground-level views here pack a powerful punch—more intimate than the viewpoints from above.

The Town of Apollo Bay & Lunch

Midway through the day, you’ll arrive in Apollo Bay for lunch. This coastal town offers a range of cafes and restaurants, giving you the chance to taste local fare or simply wander around. Some travelers take a quick dip if the weather allows, adding a personal touch to their experience.

Guided Forest Walks and Tall Trees

One of the surprises on this tour is the guided forest walk, where you can see some of the tallest trees in the world. The fresh forest air and natural smells add an extra sensory layer to the experience. Several reviews mention how this walk deepens their appreciation for the land and provides a peaceful contrast to the coastal sightseeing.

The Experience of the Journey

The long 13.5-hour duration might seem daunting, but most guests find the time passes quickly thanks to engaging guides and diverse stops. The transportation is praised for its comfort, with many reviewers noting the air conditioning and smooth rides. However, one common point of feedback is the bus seats’ comfort level—some travelers found them a bit tight or hard for such a lengthy trip. If you’re sensitive to seating comfort, bring a cushion or plan some stretching.

Lunch and dinner aren’t included, so packing snacks or planning to buy in Apollo Bay makes sense. The included morning tea is appreciated, providing a nice start before the big day of sightseeing begins.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Enthusiastic

Reviews repeatedly highlight the guides’ deep knowledge, energy, and friendliness. Warren, Theo, and Tony, among others, are praised for their storytelling, wildlife expertise, and willingness to go the extra mile—such as finding wildlife or adjusting timings when weather is less cooperative.

Many reviews mention the guide’s sense of humor and personable manner, which really elevates the experience from just a bus ride to a lively, engaging day. As one reviewer said, “Warren is a great guide, fantastic knowledge, and jolly as well,” which captures the overall sentiment well.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love scenic views, wildlife, and iconic landmarks, this trip offers fantastic value. You’re not just ticking off sites; you’re experiencing the land in a lively, authentic way. It’s particularly well-suited for solo travelers or small groups who appreciate an energetic guide, scenic stops, and a mix of wildlife and landscapes.

However, if you’re not comfortable spending long hours in a vehicle or prefer more personalized experiences, you might find the duration a bit tiring. Also, since lunch isn’t included, be prepared to make your own arrangements or buy in Apollo Bay.

The Sum Up

This Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne delivers a satisfying blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic sights—all at a reasonable price. The experienced guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, turn what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure. The stops at the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and wildlife viewing spots are truly highlights, offering picture-perfect moments and genuine wildlife encounters.

For travelers who want a comprehensive day with lots of photo opportunities, wildlife moments, and engaging storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who prefer a well-organized, group experience with a local guide who genuinely loves sharing their corner of Australia.

If you’re after a stress-free, scenic, wildlife-filled day out that doesn’t break the bank, this tour is an excellent choice—and you’ll likely leave with plenty of stunning photos and stories to tell.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 13.5 hours, making it a full-day experience packed with sightseeing and wildlife spotting.

What’s included in the price?
Pickup from selected Melbourne CBD hotels, roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, morning tea, guided wildlife viewing, and the forest walk are included.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch and dinner are not included; you’ll need to purchase lunch in Apollo Bay or bring snacks.

Can I see wildlife, like koalas and kangaroos?
Yes, the guides take you to the best spots for wildlife sightings, and many guests have reported seeing koalas, parrots, and kangaroos in the wild.

How are the guides?
Reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, humor, and extra effort—many say guides like Warren and Theo made the trip special.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention traveling alone and appreciating the small group size and engaging guides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, an umbrella, a jacket, headphones, and a charged smartphone are recommended. Luggage or large bags are not permitted.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Victoria’s coast, wildlife, and iconic sites, perfect for those wanting a memorable, hassle-free day out from Melbourne.

You can check availability for your dates here: