Tasmania: 7-Day West to East Tour

Tasmania: 7-Day West to East Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into one of Australia’s most captivating islands. Over seven days, you’ll journey from Hobart across lush national parks, rugged coastlines, charming villages, and historic sites like Port Arthur. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a mix of easy walks, wildlife encounters, and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, active experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Two features we especially appreciate are the guided walks at Cradle Mountain and visits to wildlife sanctuaries such as Bonorong. These moments let you connect authentically with Tasmania’s natural environment and local fauna. Plus, the choice of optional hikes, like Wineglass Bay or Mt Amos, allows for flexibility based on your energy level and interests.

A potential consideration is that this is a fast-paced tour with some days feeling somewhat rushed, especially for those who prefer more leisurely exploration. Also, accommodations vary, with some reviews noting that certain stays could be better, so managing expectations here is wise.

This tour suits those who enjoy active travel, are curious about wildlife and landscapes, and want a structured yet flexible itinerary. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a rich taste of Tasmania should find it a great match.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From rainforests and waterfalls to rugged coastlines and mountain wilderness.
• Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see Tasmanian devils, wombats, and little penguins.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to include everyone.
• Flexible walks: Options for easy strolls and more challenging hikes tailored to different fitness levels.
• Cultural insights: Visits to heritage villages and the Port Arthur convict site provide context beyond just scenery.
• Value for money: All national park entry fees and some attractions included, making it an economical way to see Tasmania.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of Tasmania’s 7-Day West to East Tour

An Overview of the Experience

This 7-day tour takes you through the heart of Tasmania, starting in Hobart and making your way across the island’s diverse landscapes. Led by guides like Evan Thomas, Brendan, or Justin (all highly praised), you’ll visit iconic sites such as Mount Field National Park, Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park, and Port Arthur. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient rainforests, walk along pristine beaches, and learn about Tasmania’s unique wildlife and history.

The tour typically costs a reasonable amount considering the scope—covering transportation, accommodations, national park fees, and entry to key attractions. Travelers report that the value is clear, especially given the broad range of experiences packed into each day.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan via Mount Field and Queenstown

We begin in Hobart, heading northward to Mount Field National Park, a highlight for anyone interested in giant trees and waterfalls. Here, you walk among some of the world’s tallest eucalyptus trees and stand before the celebrated Russell Falls—a short, flat walk perfect for all fitness levels. This early experience sets the tone with lush greenery and the soothing sound of cascading water.

Next, you visit Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, and pass through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, where the scenery turns more rugged and wild. A brief stop in Queenstown reveals Tasmania’s mining past, giving cultural context to the landscape.

This first day gets you into the natural heart of Tasmania, with the added bonus that many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling, making the scenery come alive with history and local insights.

Day 2: The Rugged West Coast and Wild Nature

On the west coast, the landscape shifts dramatically. Expect to see ancient rainforests, sand dunes, and long beaches like Ocean Beach or Henty Sand Dunes. You can choose to walk among these dunes or take a guided cruise on the Gordon River (at your own expense)—a trip many find worthwhile because of the stunning scenery and tranquil waters.

Travelers frequently mention the west coast’s raw, untamed beauty, with some describing it as “wild and rugged,” ideal for those who love unspoiled nature. The guided nature walk gives you a chance to experience Tasmania’s rainforest up close, while the optional Gordon River cruise offers a different perspective—more leisurely and scenic.

Day 3: Cradle Mountain and Launceston

The day focuses on Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania’s most iconic sights. The park features glacial-carved landscapes, lakes, and abundant wildlife. You’ll have the option to hike to Marions Lookout or circle Dove Lake—both offering breathtaking vistas. Expect to see wombats, echidnas, and possibly devils in the wild.

The journey continues via Sheffield, famed for its vibrant murals, into Launceston, where a walk through Cataract Gorge is a highlight. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed spotting wallabies in the gorge and appreciating the charming town.

Day 4: Launceston to Bicheno via the Bay of Fires

Travel south to Bicheno, a seaside town famous for its little penguins. On the way, you’ll visit the Bay of Fires/Larapuna, known for its white sands, turquoise waters, and striking orange boulders—some consider it the most beautiful beach in Tasmania. Walking along these shores, you’ll understand why the land has such a spiritual significance for Tasmanian Aboriginal people.

Many travelers rave about the pristine sands and vibrant scenery, calling it a highlight of the trip. Spending the night in Bicheno offers a relaxed end to the day, with chances to see penguins returning to shore at dusk.

Day 5: Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

No trip to Tasmania is complete without a visit to Freycinet National Park. You can walk to Wineglass Bay, one of the most picturesque beaches in the world, or climb Mt Amos for even more spectacular views. The Cape Tourville lighthouse provides an easy, scenic walk with panoramic vistas.

Reviews highlight how stunning the views are from these hikes, with some describing photos that simply don’t do justice to the real thing. Returning to Hobart the same day, this stop is often cited as a must-see for its sheer natural beauty.

Day 6: Wildlife Encounters and Heritage Towns

The day starts with a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll see Tasmanian devils and other native animals up close. This is a favorite among animal lovers, with many reviews noting the caring and knowledgeable guides.

Next, explore Richmond, a heritage village filled with historic buildings, cobbled streets, and an impressive 11-arched stone bridge. Later, a climb or drive up Mount Wellington (also called kunanyi) gives you sweeping city and mountain views.

That evening, you can unwind in Hobart’s historic pubs or dine at local restaurants, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Day 7: Port Arthur and Tasman Peninsula

The final day dives into Tasmania’s convict history at Port Arthur, one of Australia’s best-preserved penal settlements. Walking through the site, many find the stories of the past both sobering and fascinating. You can also enjoy a harbor cruise, which offers quiet views of the rugged coast.

The trip concludes with a walk to Crescent Bay, a beautiful spot with craggy cliffs and pristine beaches, before returning to Hobart.

What to Expect: Practical Details and the Experience

This tour is designed for active travelers who enjoy short walks and wildlife spotting. Most walks are classified as easy to moderate, with a few challenging options like the Mt Amos summit. The group size is manageable, and guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and inclusiveness.

Transportation is by comfortable coach, with luggage storage in a trailer during travel days. Accommodation varies between hostels and motels, with some reviews noting that motels with private bathrooms are a plus. Expect to bring weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, including hiking shoes, sun protection, and warm layers.

Meals aren’t included, but you’ll have ample opportunity to try local foods in towns like Bicheno and Hobart. Day-to-day schedules are tight but balanced to allow flexibility and optional activities, depending on your interest and energy level.

The guided commentary enriches each stop, often including stories about Tasmania’s history, flora, fauna, and culture—making your sightseeing more meaningful.

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The Value of This Tour

Given that all national park entry fees and Bonorong Sanctuary are included, plus port and site admissions, the tour is a strong value. Some reviews highlight that, despite occasional critiques about accommodation or the bus’s comfort, the quality of scenery and expert guidance makes up for these minor inconveniences.

Travelers consistently mention that the group atmosphere fosters camaraderie, making the experience more enjoyable. For solo travelers, it’s a chance to meet like-minded adventurers, while couples and small groups appreciate the shared memories.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is ideal for active, curious travelers who want a structured way to see Tasmania’s highlights without the stress of planning. It suits those comfortable with moderate walks and eager to learn about wildlife, history, and landscapes. If you’re traveling with children under 8 or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Those seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania—covering coastlines, mountains, wildlife, and cultural sites—will find this tour covers a lot of ground in a manageable timeframe.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t like walking?
Most walks are easy to moderate; some optional hikes are more challenging. If you prefer minimal walking, you might choose just the guided drives and sightseeing.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Reviews suggest that motel options are private and clean, while hostels provide shared dorms. Expectations are generally realistic, but some travelers mention that certain stays could be better.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, accommodations for six nights, national park fees, and entry to Bonorong Sanctuary and Port Arthur are included. Food, drinks, and optional Gordon River cruises are extra.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s active but generally suitable for those with moderate fitness. Short walks, like Russell Falls, take about 25 minutes, while others like Dove Lake can take 2-3 hours with some rough terrain.

Is the group size large?
Group sizes are manageable, and guides are praised for their personal attention and humor.

Can I customize the experience?
Walk options are flexible, allowing you to choose more or less challenging hikes based on your preference.

Are there options for wildlife viewing?
Yes, visits to Bonorong Sanctuary and the chance to see penguins and wallabies make wildlife a highlight.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, hiking shoes, sun protection, swimwear, towel, and a daypack are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Tasmania tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, history, and local culture. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a moderate level of activity and want to experience a broad range of what Tasmania has to offer in a structured, guided format.

Many travelers rave about the guides’ expertise and friendliness, which often makes the trip special. The scenery, from towering forests to pristine beaches, is breathtaking and well worth the journey. Though it might feel a bit busy at times, the ability to see so much of Tasmania in a week makes it an attractive choice for those with limited time.

For those looking for a travel experience that combines adventure and education, while keeping logistics simple, this tour hits the mark perfectly. It’s a chance to make friends, learn local stories, and leave with unforgettable memories of Tasmania’s wild and beautiful landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: