Sydney: Blue Mountains Kangaroos, Wilderness and Sunset Tour - Transport, Timing, and Cost

8 Top-Rated Sydney National Park Tours

Discover the best Sydney national park tours, from iconic Blue Mountains adventures to private wildlife explorations—perfect for every explorer.

Sydney’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. The city is surrounded by stunning parks and wilderness areas, making it a perfect base for exploring Australia’s iconic landscapes. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure in the Blue Mountains, a private wildlife experience, or a scenic coastal trip, Sydney offers options that cater to every interest. We particularly love the Blue Mountains with river cruise, which combines breathtaking scenery with a relaxing boat ride, and the private Blue Mountains tour, for those wanting personalized attention and insider access. These tours showcase the area’s rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and Aboriginal stories—truly some of Australia’s best.

For travelers craving a more intimate experience, the Private Guided Tour from Sydney to Blue Mountains offers luxurious comfort and tailored routes, perfect for families or couples. Meanwhile, if wildlife encounters excite you, the Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Late Start Tour provides excellent chances to see kangaroos, koalas, and more. With so many options, there’s a perfect Australian escape waiting just outside Sydney’s city limits.

1. Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River Cruise

Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River Cruise

Explore the Blue Mountains on this full-day guided trip from Sydney. The tour includes visits to well-known sites like Three Sisters, Scenic World, and Wentworth Falls, plus a stop at the Sydney Zoo for Australian wildlife. What sets this tour apart is the river cruise along the Parramatta River that brings you back to Sydney Harbour, a relaxing way to end a busy day. The itinerary combines scenic drives, bushwalks, and cultural stories, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 from over 650 reviews, this tour is praised for its well-rounded mix of iconic sights and hidden corners. The inclusion of a river cruise, a visit to Sydney Zoo, and insider tips on Aboriginal legends make it a comprehensive experience. The tour runs about 10.5 hours, with hotel pickups at multiple locations, offering convenience for visitors staying in the city. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of sightseeing with a bit of everything—views, wildlife, history, and relaxation.

Bottom line: This tour offers a classic Blue Mountains experience with the added bonus of a river cruise for a relaxed, full-day overview of what makes this region special.

2. Sydney: Blue Mountains Kangaroos, Wilderness and Sunset Tour

Sydney: Blue Mountains Kangaroos, Wilderness and Sunset Tour

At number 2, this small-group tour (max 10) focuses on authentic encounters with native wildlife and the wilderness of the Blue Mountains. The tour includes guided walks through rainforests, views from Sublime Point, and sunset vistas from Narrow Neck Plateau—the kind of experience that gets you into the heart of Australia’s natural landscape. The day also features a traditional Aussie picnic lunch, making it ideal for nature lovers who want a more personal, less crowded trip.

Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5, guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, the intimate setting, and the chance to see wild kangaroos and native birds. Starting from Circular Quay, the tour lasts about 10 hours and emphasizes the region’s indigenous heritage along with its scenic beauty. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic encounters.

Bottom line: If you want a more intimate, wildlife-focused Blue Mountains outing with a local touch and stunning sunsets, this tour delivers a memorable, personal adventure.

3. Wilderness, Waterfalls, Three Sisters BLUE MOUNTAINS PRIVATE TOUR

Wilderness, Waterfalls, Three Sisters BLUE MOUNTAINS PRIVATE TOUR

For around $369 per person, this private Blue Mountains experience offers undivided attention from your guide. The tour includes a visit to the Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls, and the chance to walk along native creek paths reminiscent of Charles Darwin’s footsteps. The highlight is the flexibility—your guide adapts the itinerary to your interests, whether that’s more hiking, wildlife, or scenic overlooks.

Guests love the personalized approach, with many reviews highlighting the guide’s insightful commentary and the ability to spend extra time at favorite spots. You’ll also have the option to visit the Sydney Zoo for hands-on encounters with Australian animals, or enjoy a ferry ride upon conclusion, adding variety to your experience. The day runs about 9-10 hours, with a focus on natural wonders and cultural stories.

Bottom line: If you prefer a tailored, private tour that adapts to your pace and interests, this full-day outing provides a flexible, immersive Blue Mountains experience.

4. Royal National Park Private Tour

Royal National Park Private Tour

Number 4 on our list is the Royal National Park Private Tour, ideal for those seeking exclusivity and customization. With private transportation, you’ll visit Wedding Cake Rock, Bald Hill, and Wattamolla lagoon, all at your own pace. The tour includes optional activities like walking on the Royal Coast Track or relaxing at quiet beaches.

Rated 5.0 out of 5, travelers appreciate the flexible itinerary, personalized attention, and the opportunity to capture stunning coastal views. The tour lasts around 9 hours, with lunch and snacks included, plus digital photos afterward. This experience suits travelers who want to avoid crowds and tailor their day to specific interests, whether it’s photography, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the scenic coastline.

Bottom line: Perfect for privacy seekers and those eager to explore Australia’s dramatic coastlines with a flexible, tailored approach.

5. PRIVATE Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Late Start Tour

PRIVATE Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Late Start Tour

This exclusive private tour, costing about $732 per person, is designed for travelers who want to enjoy the Blue Mountains’ waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic spots without the rush. It includes visits to Calmsley Hill Farm for native animal encounters, bushwalking in Wentworth Falls Lake, and viewing the Three Sisters at sunset. The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to customize stops and even enjoy an included dinner in Leura.

Rated 5.0 out of 5, reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness, local knowledge, and the tailored experience. You’ll get to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, with options for hikes, wildlife, and local dining, all in a private setting.

Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a personalized, leisurely day of nature, wildlife, and gourmet dining with total control over the itinerary.

6. Private Guided Tour from Sydney to Blue Mountains National Park

Private Guided Tour from Sydney to Blue Mountains National Park

This luxury private tour covers the Blue Mountains’ highlights in about 9 hours, with personal pickup from your hotel. The guide will take you through Katoomba Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Jamison Valley, with the flexibility to add stops based on your interests. The highlight for many is riding the Scenic Railway and Skyway, which provide spectacular views of the rainforest and waterfalls.

Rated 5.0, reviews cite the guide’s detailed commentary and seamless logistics. This tour is well suited for travelers who want a stress-free, comprehensive experience with private transportation and expert insights.

Bottom line: If you prefer a luxurious, private exploration that covers all the Blue Mountains’ top sights, this is an excellent choice.

7. Sydney: Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai National Park Tour

Sydney: Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai National Park Tour

Number 7 blends coastal scenery and native bushland in a 7-hour trip. You’ll visit Narrabeen Beach, see Aboriginal rock art, and take a ferry from Manly back to Sydney Harbour. Rated 4.8, travelers praise the mix of beaches, scenic coastal drives, and indigenous stories. The tour includes multiple stops, ideal for those who want to combine beach lounging with a cultural experience.

Starting from Circular Quay, the tour offers a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights. Perfect for travelers wanting a day that balances nature, culture, and iconic Sydney scenery.

Bottom line: For a mix of beaches, Aboriginal heritage, and coastal views, this tour hits the mark, especially if you enjoy a leisurely, educational day.

8. Sydney: PRIVATE Blue Mountains, Wildlife & Cruise Luxe Tour

Number 8 offers a luxurious private experience, blending iconic sights like Lincoln’s Rock, Wentworth Falls, and The Three Sisters with wildlife encounters and a scenic cruise. The 10-hour trip is designed for those seeking comfort and exclusivity, with private transport and personalized attention.

Rated 5.0, reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the quality of the itinerary, which includes walking beneath cliffs and visiting secluded waterfalls. It’s suitable for travelers eager for an indulgent day of scenic beauty and cultural storytelling.

Bottom line: For those wanting a high-end, private tour with a focus on natural splendor and native wildlife, this tour offers a seamless, memorable experience.

How to Choose Your Ideal Sydney National Park Tour

When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For example, the Blue Mountains with river cruise provides a comprehensive day with scenic views and wildlife, ideal for first-timers. If privacy and customization matter most, the Private Blue Mountains experience or luxury private tour are perfect options.

For those wanting a more active, wildlife-focused adventure, the Blue Mountains Kangaroos, Wilderness and Sunset Tour offers a small-group setting and authentic encounters. Budget travelers should look at the Ku-ring-gai National Park with hike, beach & picnic, which balances scenic spots with cultural highlights at a lower price point.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like private experiences and summer weekends, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out.

Final Thoughts

Sydney’s surrounding parks offer a remarkable range of experiences—whether you’re after a full-day exploration of the Blue Mountains, a private wildlife encounter, or a scenic coastal trip. For an all-in-one adventure, the Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River Cruise is a standout for its balanced itinerary. If you prefer exclusivity, the Private Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Late Start Tour provides a tailored, relaxed day.

For travelers looking to combine nature with culture, the Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai offers a scenic, educational escape. Whichever tour best suits your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable Australian landscapes.