2 Day Great Ocean Road Tour and Platypus paddle

Planning a trip along the iconic Great Ocean Road often promises breathtaking coastal views, famous landmarks, and a healthy dose of wildlife encounters. This 2-day guided tour from Melbourne offers a no-fuss way to experience its highlights without the stress of driving yourself. With a focus on intimate small-group travel, wildlife spotting, and the chance to see the elusive platypus, it’s tailored for travelers who want more than just the typical tourist snaps.

What makes this tour compelling are three aspects: a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the major sights, the opportunity for wildlife encounters—koalas, parrots, and platypuses, and the small-group format capped at just seven travelers—which ensures a more personal experience. Its flexibility and inclusion of unique moments like the dawn paddle for platypus are definitely appealing. However, one potential consideration is that meals are not included, so budget-minded travelers should factor in extra costs for food and drinks.

This tour will suit those who love nature, scenic drives, and cozy group vibes. If you’re after a well-organized adventure that balances iconic sights with lesser-known wildlife moments, this could be a good pick. But if you’re craving luxury lodges or a more flexible schedule, you might look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with just seven travelers maximizes personal attention.
• Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate chances to see koalas, parrots, and platypuses.
• The dawn paddle on Lake Elizabeth offers a rare opportunity to spot the platypus in its natural habitat.
• Iconic stops like The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge are included.
• Accommodation in Forrest is covered, but meals are at your own expense.
• The tour offers a mix of scenic views, outdoor activities, and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for nature lovers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Exploring the Coast and Wildlife

The tour kicks off early with a pickup in Melbourne—a smart move to dodge city traffic and set a brisk pace for the day. We loved the way the guide kept the energy high right from the start. The first stops are all about the signature landmarks of the Great Ocean Road: The Arch and London Bridge. These iconic rock formations immediately grab your camera’s attention and are perfect for snapping some memorable photos.

A highlight for many is Loch Ard Gorge, where you get a full hour to take in the scenery. The gorge’s rugged cliffs and the story behind the shipwreck make it a compelling stop. The tour then takes you to the Twelve Apostles, probably the most famous stretch of the coast. Although helicopter rides are extra, walking along the boardwalk allows you to appreciate these limestone stacks up close. Reviewers like Debra_D, who called it a “great experience,” noted the tour guide Walter’s knowledge and friendly approach as a real plus.

Lunchtime at Yatzies in Port Campbell offers a chance to relax, enjoy the gardens, and spot local parrots—an unexpected delight. Afterward, the journey continues inland through lush rainforests, where Mait’s Rest stands out as a peaceful walk among towering trees, perfect for nature lovers. The day ends in Forrest, a charming town nestled in the Otway Ranges, where your included accommodation provides a cozy base. Dinner is at your own expense, giving you flexibility to explore local options.

Day 2: Platypus Paddle and Forest Adventures

The second day begins with the tour’s most unique feature: an early morning paddle on Lake Elizabeth in search of the elusive platypus. As one reviewer mentioned, “it was all great,” and many appreciated the chance to see wildlife in its natural environment. The dawn wilderness walk and kayak trip are the core of this experience, offering a rare and intimate encounter with Australian wildlife.

Post-paddle, the tour moves to Forrest Brewing Company for breakfast—an opportunity to relax and fuel up. Then, it’s time to walk among the towering redwoods in Otway Forest, an awe-inspiring sight that’s perfect for photo buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Hopetoun Falls offers a scenic waterfall experience, with plenty of time to enjoy the views.

The trip winds down with a stop in Colac and a quick bathroom break at Cafe La Hoot before heading back to Melbourne, arriving around 4 pm. This straightforward schedule balances scenic stops, wildlife, and travel time effectively.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

Transport is via comfortable coach, and with only seven travelers, the experience feels more like a trip with friends than a crowded tour. This small size enhances interaction, allows the guide to tailor commentary, and makes stops more flexible. The price of around $393.46 per person may seem steep at first glance, but includes one night of accommodation and the platypus paddle experience—both valuable for wildlife lovers and those seeking authentic moments.

It’s important to note that meals are not included—a factor to consider if you prefer all-included packages. However, the flexibility means you can pick places that suit your taste and budget, from casual cafes to local pubs.

The Guide and Experience Quality

From reviews, the guide—specifically Walter—receives praise for being knowledgeable and personable. This kind of insight enhances the experience, especially when spotting wildlife or explaining the geological wonders of the coast. The tour’s focus on small groups and intimate nature experiences makes it stand out among larger, more generic trips.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress in layers; weather along the coast can change quickly, especially in the morning.
• Be prepared for some walking, especially at Loch Ard Gorge, Mait’s Rest, and Hopetoun Falls.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks for the day since meals aren’t included.
• Book early if traveling solo, as the group size is limited, and availability might be tight.
• Consider adding extra activities like helicopter rides over The Twelve Apostles if budget allows.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurous nature lovers who want a mix of iconic sights and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group settings, personalized attention, and authentic experiences like spotting the platypus at dawn. Active you will appreciate the short hikes and outdoor kayaking, while those seeking a relaxed pace will enjoy the scenic drives and peaceful forest stops.

It’s less ideal for travelers needing all-inclusive amenities or those who prefer more flexible schedules. Also, if you’re not comfortable with moderate physical activity, some parts of the tour—like walking or paddling—might be challenging.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a compelling way to see Australia’s most famous coastal landmarks, plus the chance to encounter unique wildlife like platypuses and koalas. Its small-group format provides a intimate, enriching experience, especially with a guide like Walter who clearly knows his stuff.

While the price isn’t the cheapest, the inclusion of overnight accommodation and the paddle make it a solid value for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The balance between scenic highlights and wildlife encounters makes this tour an appealing choice for those who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of the Otways and Great Ocean Road.

If you’re after a personalized, wildlife-focused adventure with the convenience of a guided tour, this option deserves a spot on your shortlist.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included. The tour uses a coach to take you along the coast and into the Otways, with pickup from Melbourne.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is seven travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, though there are stops at cafes and local eateries.

What wildlife might I see?
You may spot koalas in trees, parrots, and other birdlife. The highlight for wildlife lovers is the chance to see the elusive platypus during the dawn paddle.

Is the paddle activity suitable for beginners?
While the tour description mentions a paddle on Lake Elizabeth, it’s a guided activity. Expect some physical activity, but it’s designed for those with moderate fitness levels.

Can solo travelers join this tour?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome, but confirm availability beforehand as the group size is limited.

This guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Australia’s scenic coast and wildlife, perfect for those who want a more intimate, authentic adventure without the hassle of self-driving.