2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour

Traveling to Tasmania and seeking a way to experience its breathtaking natural beauty without wasting precious time or money? This 2-Day Cradle Mountain Tour from Hobart offers a well-balanced blend of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and rewarding hikes. With a reputation for being highly recommended (100% from 14 reviews) and a solid 5-star rating, it promises an unforgettable look at Tasmania’s most iconic landscapes.

What we love about this tour is how it gets you out of the city and straight into the wild, with small group sizes ensuring a personal touch. The knowledgeable guides seem to make every moment engaging—offering insights into Tasmania’s history and environment, along with plenty of tips for spotting animals like wombats and platypuses. The lakefront accommodations add a cozy, authentic touch, making it feel less like a rushed tour and more like a genuine adventure.

A potential consideration is the moderate physical fitness required, especially for the hikes like Marion’s Lookout. While the Dove Lake Circuit is accessible to most, the more challenging trails demand a bit of stamina. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want an immersive experience and don’t mind a busy schedule.

This tour is perfect for those who love nature, are interested in wildlife, and want to squeeze in a comprehensive Tasmanian adventure from Hobart without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Small group experience with a maximum of 13 travelers for a more intimate journey
• Expert guides who provide insightful commentary and practical tips
• Diverse itinerary covering waterfalls, rainforests, alpine regions, and historic towns
• Wildlife sightings including wombats, platypus, and echidnas in their natural habitat
• Comfortable accommodation by the lakeside for a restful night after a day of exploring
• Value for money considering the included transport, activities, and park entry fees

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Cradle Mountain Tour

The Allure of Tasmania’s Wilderness in Just Two Days

Tasmania is renowned for its unspoiled landscapes, and this tour packs the highlights into a manageable schedule. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the best without sacrificing comfort or spending all their time on logistics. From the moment you’re picked up in Hobart, the journey is filled with scenic views, fascinating stops, and meaningful wildlife encounters.

Day 1: From Hobart to Cradle Mountain via Historic and Wild Sites

The early start at 7:00 am means you’ll be on the road as the city wakes up. The first stop is Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park—one of Tasmania’s top waterfall sights. Here, the walk amongst towering trees and the chance to spot a platypus in the river adds an element of surprise. Reviewers like Sherry noted how the tour’s well-planned schedule allowed early access to stunning views of Cradle Mountain, emphasizing the value of the timing.

Next, the drive takes you through the Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area, a landscape that feels almost untouched. The stop at Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s rugged, pristine environment. Travelers like ArvinC_F appreciated the detailed overview provided by the guide, which helped them prepare for each stop and get the most out of their day.

The final stop before heading to the accommodation is Queenstown, a town with a hauntingly beautiful mining history. This brief visit offers a peek into Tasmania’s industrial past and a chance to stretch your legs before settling into lakeside accommodation near Cradle Mountain.

Day 2: The Heart of Tasmania’s Wilderness

The highlight of the tour is the second day at Cradle Mountain National Park. The drive through temperate rainforest sets the tone for the adventure ahead. Expect to see wombats grazing in the wild—this is a recurring highlight for many, as they frequently encounter these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.

The Dove Lake Circuit is the primary hike, a 6 km walk that takes 2-3 hours. It’s a relatively gentle trail with spectacular views of Cradle Mountain and surrounding forests. For those seeking more challenge, the Marion’s Lookout Walk offers a 3-hour climb with rewarding panoramic vistas. Reviewers like Sherry appreciated the early access to the views, which made the experience even more special.

For the more adventurous, Marion’s Lookout provides a challenging hike—an aspect that adds a layer of flexibility for different fitness levels. The guide’s expert commentary ensures you’re prepared, and the scenic vistas make the effort worthwhile.

Scenic Return and Final Stops

On the way back to Hobart, the tour makes a stop at Deloraine, a charming town, followed by a drive over the Tasmanian Central Highlands. The Great Lakes Lookout offers a final photo opportunity, often described as stunning, and a fitting end to the journey.

What You Really Get

This tour’s value lies in how it combines guided expertise, well-planned logistics, and authentic wildlife sightings. The small group size, often praised by travelers, ensures everyone receives personalized attention, making the experience more enriching.

Transportation and Comfort

The transportation is comfortable, and the timing is well coordinated—starting early and returning by evening. The inclusion of all admission tickets means you won’t need to worry about extra costs, and the accommodation is described as comfortable and lakeside, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

The Guide’s Role

Guests like ArvinC_F highlight the guide’s ability to provide rundowns and practical tips. Knowing what to wear or bring beforehand makes a big difference, especially when hiking or navigating unpredictable weather in Tasmania.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a balanced itinerary that hits the highlights without feeling rushed. It suits active travelers eager for scenic hikes and wildlife encounters, but also those who enjoy a bit of history and culture in the mix. The small group size makes it perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal, less crowded experience.

It’s also a great fit for those who want a hassle-free, guided trip that takes care of logistics—especially since the tour includes park entries and accommodation. If you’re willing to rise early and enjoy a full, active day, this experience offers excellent value for its price.

FAQ

How many people are in the group?
The tour has a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with your guide.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, all admission tickets for parks and attractions, and lakeside accommodation. Meals are not specified, so you might want to bring snacks or check with the provider.

Is this tour suitable for children or less active guests?
While the tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, some hikes like Marion’s Lookout are more challenging and might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

When should I book?
On average, travelers book about 57 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. It’s wise to reserve early, especially during peak seasons.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, Tasmania’s weather varies, and the scenery is stunning year-round. Summer and autumn tend to be popular for hiking and wildlife sightings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are subject to partial or no refund.

Are meals provided?
Meal details aren’t specified, so it’s safest to bring some snacks or plan for meals outside the tour.

What kind of footwear should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended, especially for the longer or more challenging walks like Marion’s Lookout.

How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is advised, as the hikes require some stamina and walking on uneven terrain.

Is wildlife spotting guaranteed?
While not guaranteed, reviewers frequently mention seeing wombats, platypus, and echidnas, thanks to the guided nature of the tour and visits to prime wildlife areas.

Final Thoughts

This 2-Day Cradle Mountain Tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience Tasmania’s wilderness in just a weekend. With a knowledgeable guide, small group intimacy, and thoughtfully planned stops, it strikes a great balance between adventure and comfort.

It’s a standout choice for travelers eager to see iconic landscapes, encounter native wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of Tasmania’s outdoors without the hassle of logistics or planning. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable escape, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Tasmania’s wild heart.

For those who thrive on active travel and crave authentic experiences, this trip is hard to beat. Just remember to pack your hiking boots and a sense of curiosity—you’re in for a rewarding journey.