Melbourne: 2-Night, 3-Day Tour Schedule

Imagine exploring the rugged coastlines of the Great Ocean Road, marveling at the iconic 12 Apostles, then venturing into the lush wilderness of the Grampians with a band of fellow travelers—all in just three days. For $1,049 per person, this all-inclusive journey offers a thoughtfully curated escape into some of Victoria’s most breathtaking scenery. Led by knowledgeable guides (think friendly locals rather than robotic narrators), the trip balances scenic highlights, wildlife encounters, and cultural stops, all within a small group setting.

Two things we love are the personalized experience thanks to small group sizes—limiting to just 11 travelers—and the opportunity to get up close with native Australian animals at the Wildlife Reserve. The other standout? The chance to enjoy free wine tastings at local wineries, which adds some welcome relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor activity, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essentials. It’s best suited for those who love natural beauty, wildlife, and a laid-back but well-organized itinerary.

This tour works well for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Victoria’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after a mix of scenic landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences in a small-group setting, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small group intimacy: Limited to 11 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Diverse experiences: Includes wildlife encounters, scenic walks, and iconic landmarks.
• All-inclusive value: Meals, park fees, and major attractions covered.
• Flexible add-ons: Optional experiences like zip lines, hot springs, or dingo encounters.
• Comfortable transport: A modern 12-seater van with a sound system makes travel enjoyable.
• Wildlife and scenery: Witness kangaroos, koalas, and stunning coastlines in one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road

Your adventure begins in Melbourne, where you’ll meet your guide and small group early in the morning. From there, the drive along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, kicks off. Traveling in a comfortable van, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with an all-inclusive package—meals, water, and entry fees are covered, so you can focus on the views.

The first major highlight is the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Reserve, a perfect place to see kangaroos, koalas, emus, and wombats in a natural setting. Many reviews praise the chance to see these animals up close—their encounters are often a favorite part of the tour. One traveler shared, “Seeing the koalas and kangaroos in the reserve was a highlight; it felt very authentic.”

Later, the group explores landmarks such as London Bridge, a natural rock formation with a fascinating history—once a complete arch, parts collapsed in 1990, leaving some sections isolated. The journey continues along the coast, with plenty of photo stops, before arriving at your cozy 3-star+ accommodation for the night.

Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and the Otway Rainforest

The second day is packed with iconic sights and immersive experiences. After breakfast, you’ll visit The Otways Fly Treetop Adventures, where a treetop walk offers a perspective of the rainforest canopy that’s both tranquil and exhilarating. If you opt for the Zip Line Tour, you’ll get a rush zipping through the treetops—an added experience that many reviews recommend.

Next, the tour takes you to Trentham Falls and MacKenzie Falls, two of Victoria’s most stunning waterfalls. These natural spectacles are perfect for stretching legs and soaking in the scenery. We loved the way these stops contrast the rugged coast with lush, verdant forests—showcasing Victoria’s diverse landscape.

In the afternoon, it’s time for a guided bush walk, where our guide shared stories about native plants and animals, making the experience both scenic and educational. The day concludes with a visit to a winery for free wine tastings—a relaxing way to unwind and enjoy local flavors.

Day 3: The Great Ocean Road’s Famous Landmarks and Return

On the final day, your journey includes the famous Lighthouse along the coast, offering sweeping views over the ocean—an ideal photo opportunity. Following that, your guide takes you to the Razorback, a dramatic rock formation that’s a favorite among visitors for its striking silhouette.

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Wildlife Reserve again, for those who want a second chance at wildlife sightings, and some free time in the charming town of Warrnambool. Optional activities like the Hot Springs experience or a Dingo Encounter can be added for an extra fee, allowing you to tailor the trip to your interests.

By late afternoon, you’ll return to Melbourne, tired but enriched by a well-rounded experience of Victoria’s highlights.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guide, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, makes a big difference—adding context and stories that bring each site to life. The small group size ensures you don’t feel like just another face in a huge bus, creating a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The itinerary strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, wildlife, and leisure, giving plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife encounters, and quiet reflection.

The inclusion of meals and park fees simplifies planning and budgeting. Many travelers appreciate the value of everything being paid for upfront, especially when dealing with popular sites that can be crowded or expensive to visit independently.

The Not-So-Perfect Bits

One consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of outdoor activity—some walking, hiking shoes recommended—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity. Also, since the tour is focused on natural sights and wildlife, it might not be ideal for travelers seeking urban or cultural experiences.

Weather can be unpredictable; packing layers and rain gear is advised. Some reviews mention that the schedule can be tight, especially if weather causes delays, but overall, most find the balance of activities well managed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed but rundown of Victoria’s highlights. It’s a good fit for travelers comfortable with moderate outdoor activity and small group settings. If you’re after a well-organized, all-inclusive trip that covers iconic landmarks and gets you into nature—you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

It’s also ideal for those who appreciate local insights and personal stories during their travels. If you’re traveling on a budget but want to maximize value through included meals, park fees, and experiences, this package is a strong choice.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne 2-night, 3-day tour offers a carefully balanced mix of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural highlights—all in a comfortable and intimate setting. The small group size and experienced guides make it a relaxing way to see Victoria’s most famous sights without the stress of self-planning.

While it’s physically active and weather-dependent, the variety of stops—from waterfalls to wildlife reserves—keeps the experience engaging and rewarding. The inclusion of meals, park fees, and optional activities provides good value, making it suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free adventure.

In the end, if you’re eager to see Australia’s coast and wilderness in a way that feels personal and authentic, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them.

FAQ

Does the tour include accommodation?
Yes, all accommodation rated 3-star+ is included in the package, providing a comfortable place to rest after busy days of sightseeing.

Are meals provided?
The tour includes 4 dinners, 3 lunches, and 4 breakfasts, so you don’t need to worry about finding places to eat during your trip.

Can I customize the experiences?
Optional activities like the Dingo Encounter, Warrnambool Hot Springs, and Zip Line Tour are available for extra fees, allowing you to tailor your adventure.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see kangaroos, koalas, emus, and wombats at the wildlife reserve. Encounters depend on luck and timing, but many travelers find it rewarding.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is geared toward adults and older teens, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or heart issues, or those with mobility challenges.

How physically active is the tour?
Expect some walking and outdoor activity, including bush walks and treetop adventures. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 11 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, travelers under 19 years old are not suitable for this tour.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, camera, water, and clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. A waterproof bag is also recommended.

This small-group tour through Victoria offers a manageable blend of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty—perfect for travelers looking to see Australia’s highlights without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: