Adelaide is a fantastic base for exploring some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes. Its proximity to national parks like Coorong, Morialta, and Onkaparinga makes it easy to incorporate outdoor adventures into your trip. We love how these tours offer everything from kayaking through saltwater lagoons to spotting wild koalas and even climbing rugged cliffs. If you’re looking for a mix of wildlife, scenery, and active experiences, these tours deliver. For example, the Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park is a standout for its calm waters and rich birdlife. Meanwhile, the Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike offers a chance to see koalas and waterfalls in a more relaxed setting.
Whether you want to paddle, hike, or climb, Adelaide’s nearby parks have a tour to match your interests. The key is selecting one that suits your fitness level, preferred scenery, and time constraints. Now, let’s dive into the details of each top tour to help you decide which adventure fits your style.
- 1. Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park
- 2. Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike
- 3. Adelaide: Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike
- 4. Rock Climb and Abseil – Morialta National Park
- 5. Rock Climb and Abseil – Onkaparinga River National Park
- 6. Yorke Peninsula: 3-Day Coastal Wilderness Tour from Adelaide
- 7. SA Riverland: 3-Day Murray River & National Parks Eco Tour
- How to Choose Your Best National Park Tour in Adelaide
- Final Thoughts
1. Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park
At number 1, this Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park is perfect for travelers eager to experience South Australia’s unique saltwater lagoons by water, with minimal ecological impact. The tour includes all necessary equipment and guides who are knowledgeable about the area’s ecology. What sets this apart is the emphasis on having more time on the water than most other kayaking trips — up to six hours of paddling through quiet waters and stunning scenery.
The itinerary features a stop at the Murray Mouth Lookout, offering panoramic views of where the Coorong meets the ocean, and time exploring the sand dunes at Young Husband Peninsula on foot. Meals are included, with morning tea and a delicious lunch, so there’s no need to pack your own. The tour is especially good for those with a moderate fitness level, as paddling against tide or waves can be physical, but the reward is being immersed in one of Australia’s most protected and photogenic coastal environments.
Reviewers love the mix of wildlife spotting — seals, pelicans, and other birds — and the rich history the guide shares. One noted, “Brenton and Alex showed us the best spots and provided delicious snacks and lunch.” The value for money is high, considering the all-inclusive price and the intimate experience.
Bottom line: If paddling through salt lagoons and dunes sounds appealing, this tour offers a well-rounded, eco-friendly adventure with plenty of wildlife and scenic highlights.
2. Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike
Second on our list is the Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike, a half-day outdoor experience that gets you deep into one of Adelaide’s most scenic parks. Priced at just under $89, this tour is ideal for those wanting a more relaxed pace with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. The guide leads you through bush trails that pass by three waterfalls along Fourth Creek, with stops at Kookaburra Rock, Giant’s Cave, and Eagles Nest Lookout — all offering spectacular views.
What makes this hike stand out is the chance to see native animals like koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas in their natural habitat. The tour also educates about local flora and fauna, making it informative as well as scenic. The guide’s expertise is obvious, and with a small group, you get a personalized experience. Reviewers have noted how smooth the logistics are, with one saying, “Chris made the tour very easy and enjoyable.”
This tour suits travelers who want to combine light hiking with wildlife observation, especially those who prefer a more intimate, less strenuous experience. It’s a fantastic way for families or casual hikers to enjoy Morialta’s natural beauty without overexertion.
Bottom line: A relaxing yet wildlife-rich walk, perfect for nature lovers who want to see iconic Australian animals while enjoying stunning gorges and waterfalls.
3. Adelaide: Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike
In third place, this Adelaide: Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike offers similar delights but with more emphasis on the whole eco-system. This 4.5-hour tour is perfect for travelers looking for an immersive experience in one of South Australia’s most beautiful parks. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore rock faces, gorges, and waterfalls while learning about the native flora and fauna, including bird species and possibly wild koalas.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on native wildlife within their natural environment, giving a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a guided walk through scenic views without intense physical effort. The route covers some of the park’s most iconic features, and the guide’s insights make the outing educational as well as scenic.
If you’re interested in an eco-focused experience that emphasizes wildlife, this tour fits well. Since it’s a small-group tour, you’ll get personal attention and plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, eco-conscious walk perfect for those keen on understanding the local environment and observing native animals in their natural habitat.
4. Rock Climb and Abseil – Morialta National Park
Next is the Rock Climb and Abseil in Morialta National Park, ideal for adventure-seekers ready to challenge themselves. Located just 30 minutes from Adelaide’s city center, this 4-hour tour combines the thrill of scaling rugged rock faces with the safety of experienced guides. It caters to a range of skill levels, with options for beginners and seasoned climbers alike.
Participants are provided with all equipment, and guides emphasize safety and encouragement. The variety of climbing spots, combined with the chance to practice abseiling, makes this a memorable experience. The natural surroundings — native flora, fauna, and the dramatic scenery of Morialta — add to the appeal. Several reviews mention how well the guides tailor the experience, making even first-timers feel confident.
This tour is best for active travelers who want a hands-on challenge in a beautiful setting. It’s not suited for those with physical limitations, but for climbers of all levels, it offers a rewarding taste of outdoor adventure.
Bottom line: If you’re after an adrenaline rush with stunning scenery, this guided rock-climbing experience in Morialta is a great pick.
5. Rock Climb and Abseil – Onkaparinga River National Park
At number 5, this Rock Climb and Abseil at Onkaparinga River National Park offers a similarly exhilarating experience but in a different setting. The park features a gorge with cliffs up to 30 meters high, providing a dramatic backdrop for climbing and abseiling. The activity is suitable for all skill levels, with accredited guides helping throughout the day.
Participants get all climbing gear included, and while transportation from Adelaide isn’t included, the meeting point is accessible. The guides’ expertise ensures safety, while the natural wildlife — including potential sightings of koalas, kangaroos, and birds — adds to the adventure. Many guests appreciate the friendly instructors and the range of climbing options available.
This tour suits those who want to combine outdoor adventure with wildlife viewing in a less crowded environment. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting a memorable, active experience in a striking landscape.
Bottom line: A thrilling outdoor activity for climbers of all levels, set in a beautiful gorge filled with native wildlife.
6. Yorke Peninsula: 3-Day Coastal Wilderness Tour from Adelaide
Our sixth pick is the Yorke Peninsula 3-Day Coastal Wilderness Tour. This multi-day adventure showcases South Australia’s rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and picturesque scenery. With options to explore Aboriginal culture, go fishing, or visit local wineries, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of the region.
Highlights include wandering deserted beaches, swimming in clear lagoons, and exploring cliffs and wildlife along the coast. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine outdoor activities with cultural experiences and relaxation. The tour’s duration allows for a deeper immersion into the coastal environment, making it perfect for those seeking a more leisurely pace.
Since it covers several days, it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules and a love for multi-day outdoor trips. Reviewers comment on the stunning scenery and diverse activities, making it a well-rounded choice for adventure and culture.
Bottom line: For those wanting an extended, varied coastal experience, this tour covers all the essentials of Yorke Peninsula.
7. SA Riverland: 3-Day Murray River & National Parks Eco Tour
Finally, the SA Riverland 3-Day Eco Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of South Australia’s iconic Murray River and surrounding parks. Over three days, you’ll visit towns like Mannum and Swan Reach, cruise along the mighty river, and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife walks. The tour also includes visits to Murray River National Park and Banrock Station winery.
This eco-friendly trip is ideal for those interested in wildlife, scenic river views, and local culture. The itinerary features wildlife viewing opportunities, visits to historical towns, and tasting local wines. It’s suited for travelers with a few days to spare, those who appreciate quiet, natural settings, and a slower-paced experience.
The tour’s value lies in its diversity of activities and the chance to see both the river and the parks from multiple perspectives. The reviews highlight the scenic beauty and the variety of wildlife seen along the way.
Bottom line: An excellent multi-day choice for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a relaxed yet engaging tour of the Murray River and parks.
How to Choose Your Best National Park Tour in Adelaide
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, available time, physical fitness, and specific interests. For a quick, active water adventure, the kayaking tour (Tour 1) is unbeatable. If wildlife viewing is your priority, the Morialta hikes (Tours 2 and 3) provide excellent chances to spot koalas and birds with less physical strain. The rock climbing outings (Tours 4 and 5) are for those seeking adrenaline and outdoor challenge, while the multi-day coastal and river tours (Tours 6 and 7) suit travelers wanting a deeper immersion and diverse experiences.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your spot. If you’re traveling with children or have physical limitations, stick to the gentler walks or eco-tours. For those with more time and a sense of adventure, multi-day trips reveal even more of South Australia’s natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
Adelaide offers a remarkable range of national park tours, from paddling through salt lagoons to climbing rugged cliffs. Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, or active challenges, there’s something here for every outdoor enthusiast. For a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and gentle exploration, the Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike is a top choice, while thrill-seekers may prefer the rock climbing adventures. For those wanting a longer escape, the 3-day coastal or river trips promise a more comprehensive experience.
Whatever your style, booking your tour in advance ensures you’ll get the experience you want. These tours highlight the best of Adelaide’s outdoor treasures — so pick one that suits your interests and enjoy exploring this beautiful corner of Australia.