Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s cultural hub often overshadows its incredible proximity to some of the country’s most stunning national parks. With easy access to diverse landscapes—rugged mountains, lush forests, wildflower valleys, and pristine beaches—Melbourne is a perfect starting point for exploring nature. Whether you’re seeking a full-day adventure in the Grampians, a wildlife cruise at Wilsons Promontory, or multi-day journeys along the Great Ocean Road, Melbourne offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and fitness levels.
One standout in our list is the Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour, which combines eco-friendly travel with a chance to see kangaroos, waterfalls, and spectacular lookouts. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personal experience with a knowledgeable guide. For wildlife lovers, the Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Day Tour offers close encounters with native animals on scenic walks and beach visits.
Quick Overview of the Best National Park Tours in Melbourne
Our list includes full-day tours, small-group adventures, luxury cruises, and multi-day road trips. You’ll find options that focus on mountain hikes, waterfalls, wildlife spotting, and cultural insights. Most tours are around 12 to 13 hours long, with some including lunch and transport, making them perfect for day-trippers. For more comprehensive experiences, check out the Great Ocean Road 3-Day Tour, which combines iconic coastal sights with inland wilderness.
1. Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne
At number 1, this full-day eco tour offers a truly immersive experience of the Grampians. Starting from Melbourne, it takes you through dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and wildflower valleys. The tour includes visits to Halls Gap, the Silverband Falls, and MacKenzie Falls, with a short but rewarding hike into the Grand Canyon. The small-group format—limited to a handful of travelers—ensures personalized attention and expert commentary.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of bushwalking, wildlife viewing (including wild kangaroos), and cultural insight, with a friendly guide sharing stories and pointing out native flora and fauna. A highlight is the MacKenzie Falls, which is often called the “jewel” of the park. You’ll also stop at Reed Lookout and Boroka Lookout for panoramic views.
Guests rave about the guide “Bluey,” citing his jokes, local knowledge, and care during the day. The tour includes onboard Wi-Fi and hotel pickup, making logistics smoother. The $105.09 price offers excellent value for a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want an active day with plenty of scenic stops, wildlife, and a small-group vibe. Suitable for travelers who enjoy hiking and engaging with nature in a relaxed setting.
2. From Melbourne: Grampians National Park Group Tour
Number 2 on our list is a group tour that shares many features with the eco tour but with a slightly larger crowd. For $102, this 13-hour adventure is led by local guides who provide expert insights into the park’s geography, wildlife, and history.
This tour covers MacKenzie Falls, the Grand Canyon, and other iconic spots, with plenty of opportunities to spot native kangaroos and birdlife. It features a mix of guided walks and scenic stops, along with audio guides in 16 languages, making it accessible to international travelers. Guests report that the guides impart a lot of local knowledge and the day is well-paced.
What makes this tour attractive is the balance between comfort and adventure. The upgraded vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and the guides’ enthusiasm keeps the energy high. The tour is suitable for those who appreciate a more social atmosphere without sacrificing depth of experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, guided group tour with multilingual support and a good mix of nature and cultural insights.
3. Melbourne: Wilsons Promontory Morning Wilderness Cruise
Number 3 offers a rare opportunity to see Wilsons Promontory from the water. This 2.5-hour boat cruise departs from Melbourne and explores the park’s granite coastlines and marine wildlife. The cruise is conducted on a custom-built amphibious boat, providing a unique vantage point that’s hard to match from land.
The tour highlights include Skull Rock, Inverloch, and the chance to see seals, dolphins, and seabirds. The guides provide stories about the area’s geology and marine ecosystems, enriching your appreciation of this rugged landscape. Reviewers love the scenic views and the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
This experience suits those who want a short, scenic escape and aren’t keen on long hikes. It’s also ideal for travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer a more relaxed way to experience Wilsons Prom.
Bottom Line: A scenic, marine-focused tour that offers a different perspective of Wilsons Promontory’s rugged beauty, perfect for a morning outing.
4. From Melbourne: Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Tour
Number 4 is an all-encompassing day tour exploring Wilsons Promontory’s landscapes, wildlife, and beaches. The tour includes scenic lookouts, Squeaky Beach, and optional self-guided hikes at Mt Oberon, Mt Bishop, or Lilypilly.
The small-group format (around 12 people) allows for a personalized experience. Travelers can enjoy wildlife sightings like emus, kangaroos, and wombats while wandering through lush forests or lounging on Squeaky Beach, renowned for its “singing sands”. The guide shares local stories and points out wildlife along the way.
At around $94, this tour offers good value considering the inclusiveness of wildlife spotting, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace. It’s suited for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and nature photography, with options for self-guided exploration.
Bottom Line: A balanced, comprehensive day trip ideal for those who want to see the best of Wilsons Prom with minimal hassle.
5. From Melbourne: Grampians National Park Bushwalking Tour
Number 5 focuses on hiking and culture. For around $102, this tour takes you into the heart of the Grampians, with walks to Mackenzie Falls, the Balconies, and Boroka Lookout. It emphasizes Aboriginal culture and native wildlife, with opportunities to spot kangaroos in the wild.
This tour is particularly suitable for active travelers who want to spend most of the day walking in nature. Guides share indigenous stories and point out geological formations like the Jaws of Death. The routes vary in difficulty but generally include moderate hikes with rewarding views.
Guests mention how the scenery and wildlife are fantastic, and the experience is enriched by personalized attention from guides. The focus on culture and natural beauty makes this a well-rounded option.
Bottom Line: Excellent for hikers and culturally curious travelers eager to combine outdoor activity with storytelling.
6. From Melbourne: Grampians National Park & Kangaroos
Number 6 offers a full-day blend of scenery and wildlife spotting. You’ll visit key sites like The Balconies, MacKenzie Falls, and enjoy a guided bush walk to see kangaroos and other native animals.
This tour prioritizes wildlife encounters alongside sightseeing, making it ideal for those who want a more natural experience. With a focus on native animals, it’s perfect for families or first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of the park’s highlights.
The tour, costing around $89, is praised for its friendly guides and informative commentary. The itinerary’s flexibility allows you to enjoy photo stops and wildlife sightings at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to combine landscapes and wildlife, particularly those new to the region.
7. Grampians National Park with MacKenzie Falls and Kangaroos
Coming in at number 7, this full-day tour offers visits to MacKenzie Falls, with time to enjoy hiking, lookouts, and wildlife sightings. The itinerary includes stops at Halls Gap, Boroka Lookout, and the Balconies.
The tour emphasizes personalized experiences in a small-group setting, and guests rave about the fantastic views and kangaroo sightings. The guide shares local stories, and the pace allows for photo opportunities. Priced at about $91.53, it’s a solid value considering the range of highlights covered.
For those who enjoy nature walks and want to see iconic waterfalls, this is a reliable choice. It’s also suitable for families and those with moderate fitness levels.
Bottom Line: A dependable, scenic tour for nature lovers keen on waterfalls and wildlife.
8. Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Day Tour
Number 8 is a day dedicated to Wilsons Prom on a small group basis. It features stops at Gippsland towns, lookouts, and Squeaky Beach. The highlight is the self-guided hike options at Mt Oberon or Mt Bishop, with wildlife sightings along the way.
Priced at $107.97, this tour emphasizes personal attention and flexibility. Travelers love the friendly guide and the chance to explore at their own pace. The stops for wildlife include emus, kangaroos, and wombats.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy moderate hikes combined with relaxing beach time and scenic vistas. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day exploring Wilsons Prom’s beaches and viewpoints.
9. Wilsons Promontory National Park Full-Day Eco Tour
Number 9 offers a comprehensive eco experience at Wilsons Prom, with opportunities to spot wildlife like kangaroos and wombats, and walk along secluded beaches. The 12-hour day is designed for travelers interested in nature, wildlife, and scenic trails.
Highlights include hiking scenic trails and engaging stories from guides who share facts and history. The tour’s eco focus emphasizes sustainable travel and native flora and fauna.
Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those wanting a more educational experience, it’s valued at $105 per person. Many reviewers mention the beautiful coastal scenery and wildlife encounters as key highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers eager to explore Wilsons Prom’s natural beauty in depth.
10. Great Ocean Road & Grampians 3-Day Tour from Melbourne
Number 10 is the extended option, combining coastal scenery and mountain landscapes over three days. Starting from Melbourne, it includes Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Hiking in the Grampians.
Priced at $471.78, it offers overnight accommodation, meals, and park entry fees. Guests love the chance to see less-visited spots and enjoy multiple hikes and wildlife encounters. It’s suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, multi-day adventure with a mix of coastal and inland sights.
This tour is best for adventurers with time to spare and those who want a deep dive into Victoria’s natural wonders.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a multi-day immersion blending coastal and mountain landscapes.
11. Melbourne: Private Grampian National Park Tours
Number 11 offers a customizable private experience for groups up to 13. Starting from $1,184.06, it includes stops at MacKenzie Falls, Reed Lookout, and The Balconies. The private guide tailors the day to your preferences.
This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a flexible, personalized adventure. The itinerary includes scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and photo opportunities. Guests appreciate the luxury and exclusivity that come with a private tour.
While it’s the most expensive option, it offers full control, making it perfect for travelers with specific interests or those celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a bespoke, exclusive experience, this private tour delivers tailored adventures.
$1,184.06 per group (up to 13)
12. Melbourne: Private Wilsons Promontory Day Tours
The final entry is a luxury private tour designed for up to 13 guests, offering a full-day exploration of Wilsons Prom. Highlights include sunset views from Mount Oberon, Squeaky Beach, and wildlife encounters with kangaroos and emus.
At approximately 13 hours and 15 minutes, it’s perfect for travelers wanting intimate, flexible, and comprehensive experiences with a personal guide. The tour emphasizes photography, nature walks, and the chance to visit less-visited spots.
This tour is best suited for luxury travelers or special occasions, looking for a tailored itinerary combined with premium service.
Bottom Line: A top-tier, private experience ideal for those who want a bespoke day in Wilsons Prom with all the comforts of personalized travel.
$1,184.06 per group (up to 13)
How to Choose the Right National Park Tour in Melbourne
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a full immersion with lots of hikes and wildlife, options like the Grampians Small-Group Eco Tour or the Bushwalking Tour are excellent choices. For a more relaxed day with scenic views and wildlife spotting, the Wilsons Prom cruises or self-guided walks at Wilsons Promontory will suit you well.
Budget-wise, the tours range from around $89 to $471.78 for the multi-day experience, with private tours at a premium. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne’s proximity to diverse national parks makes it a perfect base for exploring Victoria’s natural beauty. For active travelers, the full-day hikes in the Grampians are hard to beat, while wildlife lovers will appreciate the Wilsons Promontory tours. If you’re short on time, the scenic boat cruise offers a compact but memorable experience.
Whether you’re after adventure, wildlife, or peaceful scenery, these tours provide a well-rounded selection. For a truly unforgettable trip, consider combining a couple of options—like a waterfall hike followed by a wildlife cruise—and remember to book early to secure your spot in these sought-after adventures.