Tasmania: Wilderness and Wildlife Guided 6-Day Tour

Tasmania: Wilderness and Wildlife Guided 6-Day Tour — A Complete Review

Imagine traversing Tasmania’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged West Coast’s alpine mountains to the pristine sands of the East. For six days, this guided tour delivers a thoughtfully curated experience, with expert guides leading the way through some of Australia’s most scenic and wildlife-rich areas. Prices hover around a level that offers good value for what you get — five nights of accommodation, guided walks, entrance fees, and a focus on Tasmania’s natural icons, including the famous Tasmanian devils.

What we really appreciate are the variety of landscapes, from forests and waterfalls to beaches and mountains, and how each day offers a new perspective on Tasmania’s natural beauty. Another highlight? The knowledgeable guides, who bring stories, wildlife facts, and local insights that turn a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.

One potential consideration is the active nature of the tour. While most walks are manageable, the itinerary features some moderate hikes and outdoor activities, so it’s best suited for travelers with decent mobility and a love for walking. This isn’t a sightseeing bus tour with a quick glance at highlights — it’s for those eager to walk, explore, and truly experience Tasmania’s wilderness.

If you’re aiming for an immersive, well-organized journey that balances adventure with comfort, this tour suits nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those who want a structured way to see Tasmania’s best without the hassle of planning every detail.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From the West Coast’s alpine vistas to East Coast beaches, the scenery is stunning throughout.
• Wildlife encounters: You’ll see Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, and other native animals in sanctuaries and wild habitats.
• Active exploration: Most days include short, manageable walks, with options for more challenging hikes.
• Expert guides: Guides like Brendan and Justin receive high praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Accommodations: Choices include motels with private amenities or hostels, offering flexibility based on your preference.
• Value for money: With entrance fees, guided walks, and wildlife sanctuaries included, you get a lot for the price.

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan — Into Tasmania’s Western Wilds

We start our adventure by leaving Hobart behind and venturing into Tasmania’s rugged west. The drive itself is part of the charm, as we pass through Franklin-Gordon National Park, a landscape of rainforest and mountain scenery. The highlight is the stop at Mount Field National Park, where we walk among some of the tallest trees in the world and admire the iconic Russell Falls — a short, flat walk that captures Tasmania’s lush beauty. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this tranquil waterfall, describing it as “beautiful” and “a favorite spot.”

Next, we visit Lake St. Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, where the reflections of surrounding mountains create perfect photo opportunities. We also explore the old mining town of Queenstown, with its striking industrial landscape contrasting with the natural scenery. The day concludes in Strahan, a charming harborside village that feels like stepping back in time.

Day 2: West Coast Wilderness and Gordon River Cruise (Optional)

The West Coast is where Tasmania’s untamed wilderness truly shines. We explore the Henty Sand Dunes, which offer a surreal landscape of towering sand formations. For those interested in history, a cruise along the Gordon River is available at your own expense, providing a different perspective of the ancient rainforest and river wilderness.

Later, at Ocean Beach, you’ll breathe Tasmania’s cleanest air, a subtle but noticeable benefit of this remote area. The reviews rave about the “world’s freshest air,” making this a highlight for those craving pure nature and solitude. It’s a good day for those who love a mix of scenery and potential wildlife spotting.

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Day 3: Cradle Mountain — Alpine Splendor

Cradle Mountain National Park is a highlight for many. The Dove Lake Circuit is often called one of Australia’s best short walks, offering incredible views of Cradle Mountain’s jagged peaks and reflective lakes. For the more energetic, the climb to Marions Lookout offers panoramic vistas, but it’s more demanding. We loved the opportunity to see wombats at Ronny Creek, a favorite for wildlife fans.

The landscape here is a showcase of alpine lakes, glacial valleys, and ancient forests. The tour then moves to Sheffield, dubbed the Town of Murals, for a dash of local art and culture before arriving in Launceston for the night.

Day 4: Launceston to Bicheno — East Coast Beaches

Starting with a visit to Cataract Gorge, we spot local wallabies and enjoy unique views of the gorge’s cliffs and river. Afterward, we head east, stopping in St Helens for lunch and then to the iconic Bay of Fires. Here, the white sands and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for photos and beach walks. Many reviews mention the white sands as “spectacular,” and the chance to walk along these pristine beaches is a major draw.

Later, we arrive in Bicheno, a quaint fishing village where penguins emerge from the sea at dusk, a magical wildlife experience often praised by visitors.

Day 5: Freycinet National Park and Hobart

Freycinet is Tasmania’s most famous coastal national park. We explore Honeymoon Bay with its pink granite Hazards Mountains in the background. For those wanting a challenge, a climb to Mt Amos rewards hikers with sweeping ocean views. Alternatively, many prefer the more relaxed walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout, which has been called “breathtaking” by many.

The day ends with stunning views from Cape Tourville, overlooking rugged coastlines and white sands, before returning south to Hobart by the scenic Great Eastern Drive.

Day 6: Wildlife and Wellington Park — End of the Journey

The final day begins at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where we meet Tasmanian devils, wombats, and other native animals. Many reviews highlight how engaging and well-informed the guides are here, making it a highlight for wildlife lovers.

Next, we stroll through Richmond, a colonial village with charming architecture and local history. The tour wraps up with a visit to Wellington Park, known locally as The Mountain or kunanyi. Here, we explore diverse landscapes, from fern glades to rocky lookouts, culminating in a final spectacular view before the tour ends.

What This Tour Means for You

This tour strikes a good balance between guided expertise and self-exploration. We particularly appreciated the expert guides, who bring a warm enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge that makes each stop come alive. As one reviewer put it, “Brendan and Justin are passionate about Tasmanian wilderness,” which truly elevates the experience.

The scenery, from crystal-clear lakes to ancient rainforests and white-sand beaches, is the kind of natural spectacle that sticks with you. The wildlife encounters, especially with the Tasmanian devil, are both unique and memorable, offering a glimpse into a fragile ecosystem that many travelers never see in the wild.

The accommodation options provide flexibility, with choices that range from private motels with ensuite bathrooms to shared hostel rooms. This makes the tour accessible for different budgets and comfort preferences.

One area to consider is the physical activity level — while most walks are classified as easy or moderate, some hikes, like the climb up Mt Amos, are more challenging. Travelers should be comfortable with short hikes and uneven terrain.

Price and Value

At a cost that includes entrance fees, wildlife sanctuary visits, guided walks, and accommodation, this tour offers very good value. It’s a structured way to see Tasmania’s highlights without the stress of planning each day or navigating unfamiliar roads. Many reviews mention how well-organized the schedule is, with a good mix of activities and free time.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive view of Tasmania’s most iconic sights. It suits those who enjoy short, manageable walks and are comfortable with some active outdoor exploration. It’s also perfect if you prefer having a knowledgeable guide show you around, rather than renting a car and exploring independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 years are not suitable for this tour, mainly due to the active nature and walking involved.

What kind of accommodation is included?
Guests can choose between hostel rooms or motel rooms, with private or shared options. Motels offer private rooms with ensuite facilities, while hostels provide gender-specific dorms or private rooms with shared bathrooms.

How much luggage can I bring?
You can bring up to 20kg, which is stored in a trailer on travel days, so pack essentials and a bit extra for comfort.

Are the walks optional?
Yes, all walks are optional. However, most are short and manageable, with options to skip more challenging hikes like Mt Amos.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, swimwear, a towel, camera, water, a jacket, long pants, and sunscreen. It’s a good idea to prepare for variable weather.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The reviews mention friendly groups and guides who foster a welcoming atmosphere.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You’ll need to bring or buy your own food along the way.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Tasmania tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes. From the spectacular beaches of Freycinet and the Bay of Fires to the mountains and waterfalls of Cradle Mountain, each day unlocks a new facet of Tasmania’s wild charm. The opportunity to see native wildlife, including the elusive Tasmanian devil, is a rare treat, especially in the wild.

The guides consistently receive high praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to adapt to the group’s pace, making the journey more engaging and educational. The flexible accommodation options help travelers tailor the trip to their comfort level without sacrificing the adventure.

This tour provides excellent value for anyone eager to see Tasmania’s best bits with a knowledgeable companion, a well-paced schedule, and a focus on authentic nature experiences. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a bit of activity-packed fun in exchange for the chance to truly connect with Tasmania’s wilderness and wildlife. If you’re ready for a journey that’s both adventurous and enriching, this tour will more than meet your expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here: