Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney

If you’re craving a day outside the urban hustle of Sydney, this tour offers a balanced mix of Australian wildlife, spectacular scenery, and local flavors. For around 11 hours, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus with a small group of up to 11 people, exploring some of New South Wales’ most beautiful spots—including Royal National Park, Symbio Wildlife Park, Fitzroy Falls, and a boutique winery—and finishing with a relaxed wine tasting experience.

What we love about this tour is its personal touch and focus on nature. First, the early-access wildlife encounters at Symbio are a real treat—getting up close with koalas and kangaroos before the crowds arrive is a highlight. Second, the scenic hikes and lookout points, especially the waterfall in Morton National Park, are stunning without demanding too much physical effort.

A possible consideration is the extensive driving involved—up to 11 hours in the van might be a long day for some. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or less travel time, this might feel a bit full.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in a taste of Australian countryside and wine culture—all wrapped into one action-packed day. If you enjoy guided trips that combine education, scenery, and good company, this one is especially worth considering.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with small groups for more interaction and flexibility
• Early access at Symbio Wildlife Park for up-close encounters with koalas and wallabies
• Scenic hikes and lookout points offer excellent photo opportunities and fresh air
• Diverse highlights including national parks, waterfalls, and boutique wineries
• Includes seaside lunch and wine tasting, providing value for money
• Long day with significant driving; plan for comfort and energy

An In-Depth Look at the Wildlife, Waterfalls, and Wine Tour

If you’re into wildlife, stunning scenery, and local wine, this tour combines all three into one well-rounded experience. Starting from Sydney, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus—small enough to keep things intimate and engaging—driven by guides who truly know their stuff.

The Journey Begins: Coastal Views and Bald Hill Lookout

Your day kicks off with a scenic drive along Botany Bay and through the Royal National Park, Australia’s oldest national park. The highlight here is Bald Hill Lookout, a popular spot for hang gliders, and a perfect place to snap sweeping views of the Illawarra coastline and the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Reviews often mention how much travelers appreciate the scenery; one reviewer notes the “beautiful waterfalls” and “impressive views” that make the drive worthwhile. It’s a good warm-up for what’s to come and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Symbio Wildlife Park: Koalas, Kangaroos, and Conservation

Next, you’ll visit Symbio Wildlife Park, a family-run, conservation-focused zoo with a very personal approach. Many travelers mention the early access—before it opens to the general public—as a real highlight, allowing for up-close encounters with iconic Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos.

One reviewer reflects, “Getting into the park before it opened, you might find, is a big advantage—there’s no screaming crowd, and you can pet and feed the animals at your leisure.” The wildlife park is particularly loved for its interactive experiences, such as feeding kangaroos and wallabies and cuddling koalas, which are often a lifelong memory for visitors.

The Scenic Hike to Fitzroy Falls

From wildlife, the tour heads into Morton National Park, where a short, manageable hike leads to a spectacular waterfall lookout—Fitzroy Falls. While the walk isn’t demanding, be prepared for about 50 steps and a walk of around 1 km. The views are often described as breathtaking, with reviewers noting how the “beautiful waterfalls” and “crystal-clear pools” make the effort worthwhile.

Travelers appreciate the informative commentary from guides who share insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the area. One guest notes that their guide “shared nature and history info” that made the walk more engaging.

Lunch by the Sea and Wine Tasting

After all that outdoor activity, it’s time for a seaside lunch. Many reviews mention how lovely the lunch at the beach is—fresh, relaxed, and with good quality food. The tour then visits a boutique winery in Bowral, where guests enjoy sampling local wines paired with crackers, cheese, and dried fruit.

The wine tasting is considered a great value addition, allowing travelers to relax and indulge in some of Australia’s best small-batch wines. Reviewers often say it’s the perfect way to cap a day full of active sightseeing and wildlife encounters.

Final Stops and the Return Journey

On the way back to Sydney, guides often pull over to show wild kangaroos in their natural habitat, and you’ll see various native birds along the roadside—cockatoos, lorikeets, and more. Many guests mention how the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing stories and making everyone feel comfortable and informed.

What This Tour Means for You

This experience is especially valuable if you want a day that covers a lot of ground—wildlife, scenery, and local wine—without the hassle of planning or driving yourself. The small-group setting ensures more personal attention from guides and an opportunity to ask questions.

While the day is long, the variety of stops keeps it engaging, and the value for money is evident when you consider the included activities—early wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, and tastings.

The main consideration is the extensive driving; if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has mobility issues, it’s worth noting the walks involve about 50 steps and a kilometer of walking.

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and food and wine fans who enjoy a guided experience that paints a well-rounded picture of the Australian landscape and culture.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines Australian wildlife, breathtaking natural scenery, and boutique wine, this tour delivers on all fronts. The small-group approach fosters a more intimate and flexible experience, allowing you to connect more deeply with your guides and the environment. The early wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, and the chance to sample local wines make it a value-packed outing for those eager to see more of what New South Wales has to offer.

This trip is particularly well-suited for travelers who want to go beyond the usual city sights and experience a mix of nature, animals, and local flavors in one day. It’s perfect if you appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and relaxed, friendly atmospheres.

Overall, it offers a genuine taste of Australia’s natural beauty and wildlife with enough comfort and variety to satisfy most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, making it a full-day experience from start to finish.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, early access at Symbio Wildlife Park, wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, seaside lunch, and boutique wine tasting.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years. Guests under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Bring closed shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Layered clothing is recommended for varying weather.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 11 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

Are walkable distances easy?
Yes, expect to walk about 1 km and climb around 50 steps. Guides can advise if mobility is a concern.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What is the departure point?
The tour starts at the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code—just comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions.

What if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

This tour provides a genuine taste of Australia’s nature, wildlife, and local flavors—all packed into a thoughtfully curated day that leaves travelers with memories to cherish. Perfect for those who like a mix of adventure and relaxation, and who appreciate guides that share their passion and knowledge.