Small Group Tour of 2-7pax in Phillip Island & Churchill Island

Experience the Wild Side of Victoria: A Small Group Tour of Phillip Island & Churchill Island

If you’re craving a day filled with nature, wildlife, and a touch of history, this small group tour of Phillip Island and Churchill Island offers a personalized way to see some of Australia’s most iconic sites. For around $256 per person, you’ll spend about 8 to 12 hours exploring lush landscapes, meeting koalas, and watching adorable penguins waddle home at sunset. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is perfect for families, friends, honeymooners, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate experience with flexible options tailored to your wishes.

Two things we love about this tour are the personalized itinerary, which allows you to focus on the spots that excite you most, and the opportunity to have your photos taken by the guide—a thoughtful touch that makes your trip truly memorable. Also, the inclusion of major attractions like Churchill Island and the Penguin Parade at no extra cost enhances value and convenience.

However, a potential drawback is the variable length of the trip, which can stretch up to 12 hours, possibly making it a long day for travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules. Also, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that during your day.

This tour suits those seeking a relaxed, flexible day immersed in nature and Australian wildlife, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and personalized attention. If you enjoy spontaneous choices and intimate group settings, this might be your ideal day trip.

Key Points

• Personalized itinerary allows focus on your interests
• Small group size (2-7 people) ensures a relaxed, intimate experience
• Includes major highlights such as Churchill Island, Koala Reserve, and Penguin Parade
• Flexible duration of 8-12 hours accommodates different pacing preferences
• Good value for wildlife lovers and those interested in authentic, guided experiences
• No lunch included, so plan ahead

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Visiting Churchill Island: A Historic and Natural Treasure

Our journey begins with Churchill Island, a tranquil spot just off Phillip Island, where the wide-open spaces are perfect for stretching your legs and soaking up the fresh air. Known for its historic farm, the island offers a chance to explore farming activities and walk along bay trails with stunning water views. It’s a peaceful start, ideal for those who enjoy a mix of gentle strolling and learning about early Australian farm life.

The admission ticket included means you can wander freely, and your guide will likely help you capture the perfect photos amid the scenic backdrop. One reviewer appreciated the calm atmosphere here, noting that the open spaces calm the mind and make for a relaxing visit.

Encountering Koalas at the Conservation Reserve

Next, you’ll head to the Koala Conservation Reserve, where tree-top boardwalks give you close-up views of koalas in their natural surroundings. Wandering through the woods, you’ll also spot birdlife, wallabies, and echidnas, which add to the feeling of discovery. This part of the tour highlights the importance of conservation and offers authentic wildlife encounters.

Travelers who appreciate up-close animal sightings will love this stop. One reviewer mentioned the abundant birdlife and the chance to walk through woodlands, making it a favorite for nature lovers.

The Highlight: Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Parks

No visit to Phillip Island is complete without witnessing the Penguin Parade—the largest Little Penguin colony in the world. As dusk falls, you’ll watch these adorable seabirds waddle from the ocean to their burrows, a truly charming spectacle. This two-hour experience, included in your ticket, is a highlight, especially if you’ve dreamt of seeing these tiny creatures in their natural habitat.

While the Penguin Parade is a major draw, some travelers might find the experience somewhat commercialized, but most agree that the stunning views and unique wildlife encounter make it worthwhile. One reviewer called it “the magic of watching these amazing seabirds,” emphasizing the unforgettable nature of this event.

Additional Activities and Flexibility

Beyond the main itinerary, there are opportunities to explore other attractions like Chocolate Factory, Amaze N Things, Cowes Beach, Nobbies Centre, Go Kart, and Seal Rocks. Please note that booking those activities in advance is necessary, and they are not included in this tour price. This flexibility allows you to tailor your day further if time permits.

Transportation and Group Size

With private transportation, your journey is smooth and comfortable. The small group of 2-7 people ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and your guide can provide personalized insights and photo assistance. This intimacy makes the experience more engaging and less rushed than large bus tours.

Duration and Pacing

The length of the tour varies from 8 to 12 hours, depending on your interests and the activities you choose to include. This makes it adaptable for different travelers—those wanting a quick overview or those wishing to linger longer at each site.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $256 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with admission tickets included for Churchill Island, Koala Reserve, and Penguin Parade. When you consider the cost of individual tickets and transportation, the price provides good value, especially for travelers seeking a personalized, guided day rather than a crowded, impersonal bus trip.

However, the lack of lunch means you’ll need to budget extra time and money for food during the day. This can be a minor inconvenience but also allows you to choose a meal that suits your tastes and dietary needs.

Insights from Travelers

One reviewer, Julie, found the trip “excessively expensive” for their family of three, and felt it was “unnecessarily long” and “uninspiring”, mainly due to a lack of insight from the driver about the places visited. This suggests that not all experiences are equally engaging, especially if the guide isn’t as knowledgeable or enthusiastic.

On the flip side, Kristina described the tour as “quiet, easy-going, relaxing, and comfortable,” praising the guide’s flexibility in allowing guests to choose activities. This highlights that the tour can be tailored to different expectations: some prefer a more laid-back, self-directed approach, others might find the longer durations a bit tiring.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This small group tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, couples, or families looking for a personalized, relaxed day exploring Phillip Island and Churchill Island. If you’re someone who appreciates customizable experiences and enjoys having a guide assist with photos and insights, you’ll likely find this tour worth the cost.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a shorter, more structured trip, you might consider other options. Also, those expecting a highly educational commentary from the guide might want to clarify the guide’s approach beforehand, as some reviews hint at varying levels of engagement.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, and history with plenty of opportunities for authentic encounters and memorable photos. It’s perfect for travelers who value small group intimacy and flexibility, making it a fine choice for a laid-back day in Victoria’s most famous wildlife hotspots.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey between sites.

How long does the tour last?
The duration typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours, depending on your preferred pace and the activities you choose.

Are tickets to Churchill Island, Koala Reserve, and Penguin Parade included?
Yes, admission tickets for all three major attractions are included in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour offers a customized itinerary based on your interests, and guides often assist with planning your day.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal during the day.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 2-7 people, making it an intimate experience with personalized attention.

This small group journey to Phillip Island and Churchill Island is a chance to connect with Australia’s wildlife and history in a relaxed, flexible setting. Whether you’re keen on photographing koalas, watching penguins waddle home, or simply enjoying the peaceful countryside, this tour offers a genuine taste of Victoria’s natural wonders.