Sydney: Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Small Group Tour

A quick snapshot of what this tour offers

Set for an 11-hour journey from central Sydney, this small-group tour (max 11 travelers) brings you face-to-face with koalas and kangaroos, takes you along the scenic Royal National Park, and shows off some of the region’s most impressive waterfalls and sandstone gorges. It also caps the day with a tasting at a boutique Southern Highlands winery.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: First, the early access to Symbio Wildlife Park means you get to pet a koala and feed native animals before crowds arrive. Second, the combination of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and wine makes for a well-rounded day that caters to a variety of interests.

A consideration? The day involves a fair bit of walking, including some short hikes and walking up to 1 kilometer at a time, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light outdoor activity. This tour works best for travelers craving an authentic, diverse taste of Australia’s nature and wildlife, especially those who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Close wildlife encounters with koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies, with early park access.
• Stunning scenic stops like Bald Hill Lookout, Sea Cliff Bridge, and Fitzroy Falls.
• Balanced mix of activities from wildlife, rainforest hikes, waterfalls, to wine tasting.
• Knowledgeable guides consistently praised for their engaging storytelling and local insights.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minibus helps keep the day smooth and relaxed.

A detailed look at this nature and wildlife adventure

Starting the day: meeting your guide and heading south

The tour kicks off early from Circular Quay, just a short hop from most central Sydney hotels, with a quick walk to the Sydney Harbour Marriott and a short ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. The small group size means you won’t be squeezed in like sardines, and the guide’s friendly demeanor helps everyone settle in quickly.

We appreciated how punctual the departure was—except during busy holiday times when they start slightly earlier. The first part of the drive is scenic, taking you past Botany Bay and into the Royal National Park, Australia’s first national park and a wonderful patch of wilderness just outside the city.

Bald Hill Lookout and Sea Cliff Bridge: iconic coastal views

Our guide took us to Bald Hill Lookout, where the views are simply breathtaking. You see the Illawarra coastline sprawling below, with the Sea Cliff Bridge stretching out over the ocean—a perfect spot for photos. These stops are brief but packed with scenery, and they give you a real sense of Australia’s rugged coast and natural beauty.

From reviews, we know visitors love the way guides like Emma or Tony add storytelling to these vistas, sharing interesting facts about the landscape and local history. It’s a great way to start the day on a high note, literally and figuratively.

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Symbio Wildlife Park: Australia’s animal paradise

The highlight for many is the early access to Symbio Wildlife Park—a family-run operation dedicated to koala conservation. We loved the way this private encounter felt exclusive. Our guide explained that this early entry allows us to interact with animals while they’re still relaxed and less crowded.

Here, you can pet a koala with a keeper’s help and take that classic photo with one of Australia’s most beloved animals. Feeding kangaroos and wallabies is another favorite activity, and reviews show visitors really appreciate the chance to get up close with native wildlife, often saying it’s a memory for a lifetime.

The park also features other native animals, and the dedicated conservation efforts add a meaningful layer to the experience. Many reviewers comment on the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, making the wildlife encounters feel genuine and educational rather than just touristy.

The scenic drive and lunch at Bulli Beach

Post wildlife viewing, we follow the Grand Pacific Drive, a truly scenic route along the coast. Passing the Sea Cliff Bridge, the views continue to impress, with waves crashing below and cliffs towering overhead. Our guide pointed out interesting sights along the way, making the drive as much a part of the experience as the stops.

Lunch happens at a popular beachside café at Bulli Beach, overlooking the ocean and an ocean pool. Many reviews mention how relaxing it is to enjoy a local-style meal with fresh seafood or a casual sandwich, all while watching the surf roll in. If the weather is warm, you’ll love bringing your swimmers for a quick dip pre-lunch, which several travelers do.

Exploring the waterfalls and sandstone gorges

In the afternoon, the tour heads into the Southern Highlands, where lush temperate rainforests surround a gentle hiking trail. The short hike rewards you with spectacular views of sandstone gorges and a towering waterfall, often compared favorably to the dramatic scenery seen in more remote spots.

Reviewers consistently praise the easy nature of the hike—accessible even for those with moderate fitness—and the amazing vistas. Guides like Emma or Steve show us details about the local flora and fauna, adding depth to the experience. One reviewer mentions Fitzroy Falls as “bigger than expected,” with a size and power that leave a lasting impression.

The final stop: boutique wine tasting

Wrapping up the day, we drive to a small, family-run winery in the Southern Highlands. Here, you’ll sample some locally-produced, cool-climate wines—notably the sparkling Shiraz, which gets rave reviews for its unique flavor. The setting is calm and scenic, perfect for a relaxing end of the day.

Guests report that the wine tasting is genuinely enjoyable, with guides sharing insights into the wine-making process and regional specialties. It’s a great way to unwind after a full day of activity.

Returning to Sydney

By around 6:30 PM, you’ll be back at Circular Quay, having experienced a well-paced day full of wildlife, landscapes, and local flavors. Many reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs and how attentive the guides are, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed.

What makes this tour stand out?

This tour’s real strength is its balanced itinerary. You’re not just visiting one or two highlights but getting a comprehensive snapshot of Australia’s diverse scenery and wildlife in one day. The early access to Symbio Wildlife Park allows for a more intimate animal encounter, and the scenic coastal drives and waterfalls showcase the natural beauty beyond the city.

On top of that, the wine tasting at a boutique vineyard provides a relaxed and authentic taste of regional produce, often praised for its quality and setting. The guides are repeatedly described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making the experience both informative and fun.

Possible drawbacks or considerations

This tour does involve a fair amount of walking, including some short hikes and standing at viewpoints, so it’s best suited for those in good health who don’t mind outdoor activities. The journey is long—about 11 hours—so travelers should be prepared for a full day on the road, and perhaps some slight discomfort if they’re sensitive to tight seating in the vehicle (though reviews suggest the minibuses are generally comfortable).

Please note that the tour departs early in the morning and is not suitable for children under 12. Also, the timing can be tight if you prefer a more leisurely pace, but the comprehensive nature of the tour makes it a good value for those wanting to see a lot in one day.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience suits travelers who want a diverse, authentic snapshot of the region—from wildlife to waterfalls to wine—all in one day. It’s especially ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to combine outdoor adventure with some leisurely wine tasting. If you’re short on time but eager to cover a broad swath of Sydney’s surroundings, this tour will definitely fit the bill.

In-depth review of the experience

Transportation and group size

Traveling in a small, air-conditioned minibus creates a comfortable environment and allows the guide to personalize the experience. With just up to 11 travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and it’s easier to ask questions. The guide’s contemporary commentary and friendly attitude make for a relaxed atmosphere.

Wildlife encounters: up close and personal

The early entry to Symbio Wildlife Park is a standout feature. Many travelers mention how touching a koala and taking that selfie are memories that stick with them. The private presentation with a keeper offers a behind-the-scenes feel rather than a rushed, crowded zoo experience.

Feeding the kangaroos and wallabies is another highlight, with visitors often describing it as a surreal opportunity to connect with Australia’s iconic animals. Several reviews mention that their guides are extremely knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts and stories to deepen the experience.

Scenic coastal and rainforest stops

The drive along the Grand Pacific Drive is more than just transportation; it’s part of the scenery. The Sea Cliff Bridge is a marvel of engineering with spectacular ocean views. Stops at Bald Hill Lookout provide sweeping vistas perfect for photos, and stories from guides enhance the visual experience.

In the Highlands, the short hike leads to spectacular waterfalls and sandstone gorges. The ease of this walk appeals to a broad range of travelers, with many reviewers highlighting how breathtaking and accessible the scenery is.

Lunch and water activities

The beachside café at Bulli Beach offers a casual, scenic setting for lunch. Many visitors comment on the quality of the food and the chance to bring swimmers for a quick dip, which can be a refreshing break from the busier sightseeing.

Waterfalls and wine: a perfect finale

The Fitzroy Falls or other waterfalls are often described as bigger than expected, with some reviews noting the power and size of the falls. The visit to a boutique winery is a relaxing end, with the chance to taste local, cool-climate wines like the sparkling Shiraz, a regional specialty that many reviewers rave about.

The setting is peaceful and scenic, providing a perfect contrast after a day full of activity and exploration.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience blending wildlife, coastal scenery, waterfalls, and wine tasting. It’s carefully curated to maximize what you see and learn without feeling rushed. The small group size and knowledgeable guides are key to making the trip memorable, and the variety of attractions ensures you’ll experience Australia’s natural beauty in a truly authentic way.

Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those short on time but wanting to see a bit of everything, this tour delivers excellent value—combining multiple highlights in one affordable package.

Who should consider booking?

If you’re looking for a full, engaging day with plenty of wildlife interaction, stunning landscapes, and a touch of regional wine, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. Keep in mind the physical requirements—some walking and outdoor activity—so it’s best for active, fit travelers.

FAQ

• What does the tour include? It includes a private koala experience, lunch with a drink, wine tasting at a boutique winery, entrance fees to Symbio Wildlife Park and the national park, and transportation in an air-conditioned minibus.

• What is the departure time? The tour departs at 7:30 AM from the Sydney Harbour Marriott (or 7:15 AM from December 16 to January 31). Be ready 10 minutes early.

• Is this tour suitable for children? The minimum age is 12 years old, and those under 18 need ID for alcohol service.

• How physically demanding is the tour? Expect to walk up to 1 kilometer with some steps. The hike to the waterfalls is easy but requires comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

• Can I swim during the tour? Yes, at Bulli Beach, many bring their swimmers for a quick dip before lunch if the weather permits.

• What should I bring? A passport or ID, comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, water, and optional swimwear.

• Is the tour flexible with timings? The itinerary is quite structured, but guides are attentive and accommodating within the schedule.

• What about transportation? Travel is in a small, air-conditioned minibus, which is generally comfortable but can be warm during hot days.

• Can private tours be arranged? Yes, private departures from your Sydney hotel are available—you’ll need to contact the operator directly.

Final words

In just one day, this tour packs a lot of local flavor, wildlife magic, scenic beauty, and regional wine into a manageable and enjoyable experience. The combination of expert guides, exclusive wildlife encounters, and stunning landscapes make it a smart choice for travelers who want to get a broader sense of Australia’s natural treasures without overextending their schedule.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a scenery seeker, or just eager to taste some regional wines in beautiful surroundings, this tour offers genuine value and unforgettable memories. Prepare to be inspired by Australia’s wild side and waves, and perhaps even get a new favorite photo or two.

You can check availability for your dates here: