Experience the Best of the Great Ocean Road for Backpackers Aged 18-35
If you’re looking to spend a day soaking up some of Australia’s most iconic scenery, this Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour offers a fantastic way to do it. Starting from St Kilda, Melbourne, for just $87.46 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours with a lively group of fellow young travelers. The tour features private transportation, multiple stops at famous sights, and plenty of opportunities for photos and wild animal encounters.
What we especially love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural beauty with informative guides and personalized moments. You’ll enjoy tea and coffee breaks, and the flexibility to stop anytime for photos, which means you can truly take in the scenery at your own pace. Plus, the chance to spot koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat makes this trip particularly memorable.
A possible consideration is the long day; at around 12 hours, it’s quite a drive. While the itinerary is packed with highlights, some travelers might find the pace a little intense. However, if you’re keen on seeing as much as possible in one day, this tour delivers excellent value.
This experience is perfect for adventurous young travelers, backpackers, or students who want a comprehensive taste of the Great Ocean Road with a lively group. If you’re someone who enjoys great views, wildlife spotting, and lively guides, you’ll find this tour just right.
Key Points
- Stunning Sights: Includes the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and other major landmarks.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see koalas, kangaroos, and birdlife in the wild.
- Flexible Photo Stops: The itinerary encourages stopping anytime for photos.
- Long but Worthwhile: Expect a full-day adventure with many memorable stops.
- Small Group Vibe: Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
- Value for Money: At just over $87, the tour offers a comprehensive day with admission tickets included.
A Deep Dive into the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour
The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives, famous for its dramatic cliffs, iconic rock formations, and lush forests. This tour makes sure you see the very best while keeping the experience lively and engaging.
Planning more time in St Kilda? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Meeting Early, Starting Strong
The day begins at 7:00 am in St Kilda, with a pickup from various hostels in Melbourne. The small group size—a maximum of 18 travelers—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The early start is ideal for avoiding the crowds and catching the best light for photos at key spots.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles
Your first stop is the Port Campbell National Park, home to the famous 12 Apostles. These limestone stacks are the star of many postcards, and you’ll have about an hour to marvel at their grandeur. The tour emphasizes erosion’s role in shaping these formations, and you’ll get the chance to walk along the cliffs, soaking in the views.
Next, at the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, you’ll learn about how natural erosion from the Southern Ocean carved caves and arches in the limestone, creating the iconic shapes. The 45-minute stop includes admission tickets, so no extra expense for this jaw-dropping scenery.
The Razorback and Gibsons Steps
The tour then brings you to The Razorback, a jagged rock formation that resembles its namesake. The 30-minute stop is free, and you’ll appreciate how these natural sculptures reveal the power of nature over millions of years. Not far away, Gibsons Steps offers a beach-level view, accessible via a historic staircase carved into sandstone cliffs—another 30-minute stop with admission included. Here, you can descend to the sands and better appreciate the scale of these cliffs.
Loch Ard Gorge and Apollo Bay
A one-hour walk along Loch Ard Gorge introduces you to a dramatic, partially hidden beach tucked within limestone cliffs. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and those seeking a quiet moment amid awe-inspiring scenery.
Apollo Bay and Kennett River
After a scenic drive, you’ll reach Apollo Bay, a charming seaside village perfect for a lunch break (own expense). The one-hour stop gives you time to explore or relax on the beach.
Continuing inland, the Kennett River stop is a highlight—famous for wild koalas and kangaroos. Expect around 30 minutes to try spotting these Aussie locals in their natural habitat, an experience highly praised by travelers (“we saw wild koalas and kangaroos in the wild” — Charlotte B).
Lorne Pier and Fairhaven Beach
The Lorne Pier offers 360-degree views and a chance to see seabirds and marine life. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, perfect for a short walk and photos. Then, Fairhaven Beach provides a serene stretch of gold sand for about 20 minutes, giving a peaceful conclusion to the sightseeing before the final stop.
Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway
The tour wraps up with a quick 10-minute stop at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, where you can snap a picture alone with the iconic sign. Many reviews praise the guide’s effort to make this a memorable photo moment.
What the Transportation Means for You
The use of private transportation makes the long drive manageable and comfortable, allowing the group to relax and chat along the way. This is especially valued on such a lengthy day, as it saves you from the hassle of public transit or car hire. Plus, the tour emphasizes flexibility, for example, stopping “any time for photos”—a simple but appreciated detail.
Guides and Group Experience
Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who are also personable, funny, and genuinely interested in sharing insights about Australian wildlife and scenery. Trip leader Matt, James, and Raph get high praise for making the long day enjoyable, providing emotional support, and taking photos for travelers. The small group size fosters a friendly, informal atmosphere, encouraging conversations and making it easier to connect with others.
The Wildlife Factor
Many travelers rave about spotting koalas and kangaroos in the wild. The stops at Kennett River and possibly other areas offer a genuine chance to see these animals in their natural environment, not just in zoos. Reviewers commend guides for going out of their way to find these animals, with some noting they saw echidnas too.
The Cost and Value
At $87.46, including admission tickets and tea/coffee breaks, this tour offers excellent value. It combines transport, guiding, and entry fees into a single price that’s more economical than self-organizing. The reviews consistently mention “great value for money”, and many say it’s a full-day adventure that feels well worth the cost.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits young, energetic travelers who want a comprehensive day of scenic beauty and wildlife. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with long days and want a guided, stress-free experience. The small-group nature makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy friendly, informal tours and personalized attention.
Final Thoughts
This Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour delivers a well-rounded, memorable experience for anyone eager to see some of Australia’s most famous natural sights without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. The combination of stunning coastlines, fascinating geology, and wildlife encounters makes it a compelling choice for backpackers and young travelers.
The knowledgeable guides and small group size enhance the overall experience, making it more than just a bus ride—it’s a shared adventure filled with stories, photos, and awe. Yes, it’s a long day, but many reviews suggest it’s absolutely worth it if you want to tick off major sights in one go and meet like-minded travelers.
If you’re after a value-packed, fun, and scenic journey with lots of opportunities for wildlife sightings and great photos, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s best suited for adventurous, social travelers eager to explore, learn, and make some memories along Australia’s most famous coastal route.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. It’s a full-day commitment, so be prepared for a long but rewarding adventure.
Where does the tour pick up from?
The tour offers pickup from several hostels in St Kilda and Melbourne. It’s designed to be convenient for backpackers staying in city accommodations.
Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level. You’ll be doing some walking and exploring at stops like Loch Ard Gorge and Gibsons Steps, but nothing overly strenuous.
Are the admission tickets included?
Yes, all admission tickets for major stops (like the Twelve Apostles and Gibsons Steps) are included in the price, so no extra costs are needed for the main attractions.
Can I see wildlife on the tour?
Absolutely. Many travelers report seeing koalas, kangaroos, and even echidnas. Guides often spot and help you find these animals in their natural habitat.
What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 18 travelers, making for a more personal and engaging experience compared to larger bus tours.
To sum it up, this tour provides a well-balanced blend of spectacular scenery, wildlife, and small-group fun at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s ideal if you’re a young traveler eager to experience the wild beauty of Australia’s coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, you’ll likely walk away with plenty of photos, stories, and impressions of the wild and rugged Australian coastline.