Blue Mountains Small Group Tour with Lunch, Zoo and Scenic World

If you’re dreaming of lush landscapes, iconic rock formations, and Australian wildlife all in one day, the Blue Mountains Small Group Tour with Lunch, Zoo and Scenic World might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally booked it, the comprehensive reviews and detailed itinerary tell a compelling story of a well-organized day out in one of Australia’s most breathtaking regions.

What we love about this experience is its small group format—making everything feel more personal and less rushed. The knowledgeable guides (all named Dave, apparently) add a layer of authenticity and local insight that big tours often lack. Plus, the combination of wildlife, scenic rides, and iconic sights offers great value at a reasonable price. One consideration to keep in mind is the pace of the day; some reviews mention feeling a bit hurried, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this is worth noting.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those eager to see the Blue Mountains without the hassle of planning. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife, scenic vistas, and cultural experiences—all rolled into one action-packed day.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary on geology, history, and local stories.
• Diverse itinerary covering wildlife, scenic rides, and iconic vistas offers great value.
• Includes meals and entry fees, making it a convenient all-in-one day trip.
• Paced for most travelers, but some may find the schedule a little rushed.
• Highly rated for professionalism, fun, and stunning scenery.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Sydney Zoo: Australian Wildlife Up Close

The day kicks off with entry to Sydney Zoo, where you’ll be guided around Australian exhibits. Expect to see koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals. Reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed this part—“Sydney Zoo stop was so enjoyable,” as one reviewer put it, highlighting the opportunity to get up close to iconic animals in a well-maintained environment. The inclusion of admission tickets and a guided tour means you avoid the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to see.

Lincoln’s Rock and Sublime Point: The Best Photo Ops

Next, you’ll stop at Lincoln’s Rock or similar lookouts such as Sublime Point, for a 30-minute photo opportunity. These spots are renowned for their sweeping vistas of the Blue Mountains. Reviewers love the timing—visiting when it’s less crowded and the clouds have cleared—“the views are breathtaking” and perfect for memorable photos. Expect to get a quick but impactful look at the rugged terrain and lush valleys.

Lunch in Leura: A Charming Mountain Town

Midday is reserved for a delicious included lunch with a drink in Leura, a picturesque town known for its boutique shops and cozy cafes. Reviewers praise the quality of the meal and the beautiful setting—“lunch was lovely,” and the choice of options like wagyu cheeseburgers or fresh salads. The fact that this is included makes it a good value, especially considering the scenic location.

Josophan’s Fine Chocolate: Sweet Tooth Heaven

After lunch, a quick stop at Josophan’s Fine Chocolate offers a hot chocolate from an award-winning chocolatier. This little treat is a highlight for many—“sample award-winning chocolate,” which adds a decadent touch to the day. It’s a sweet pause that keeps spirits high and energy up.

The Three Sisters: The Iconic Formation at Sunset

Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Three Sisters, perhaps the most famous rock formation in the Blue Mountains. Visiting later in the day means fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs, especially with the sun casting shadows that highlight the rock’s details. Reviewers mention that the best photos are often taken when the clouds have lifted, making this a prime time for your camera.

Scenic World: Two Rides and Breathtaking Views

The finale features Scenic World, where you’ll enjoy entry, the Railway, and the Cableway, both included in the tour price. The two rides offer unique perspectives—riding the historic railway down into the valley and crossing via cableway over the treetops. Expect “breathtaking views” and a chance to see the rainforest from above. Reviewers consistently note these rides are a highlight, providing a fun and scenic perspective of the region.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour offers great value for money with all entry fees, rides, lunch, and a sweet treat included for $188.47 per person. It’s an all-inclusive experience, removing the stress of extra costs and planning, which often makes day trips feel rushed or fragmented. The air-conditioned vehicle makes traveling comfortable, and the small group size (maximum of 21 travelers) ensures more personalized attention and better group dynamics.

However, the tour doesn’t include breakfast or bottled water, so plan accordingly. Some travelers mentioned feeling a bit hurried, especially on longer driving stretches, so if you prefer a leisurely pace, it’s worth considering that the schedule is packed.

The Guide Experience: Knowledge & Fun

Multiple reviews praise the guides—each “Dave” is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. One reviewer said, “Our guide shared lots of details on our itinerary during the drive to the zoo and had even more knowledge to share about the Blue Mountains as we made our way.” This personalized commentary makes the experience more enriching and memorable.

The Balance Between Activity & Relaxation

While the itinerary is designed to pack in as much as possible, some reviewers noted it felt a little hurried. If you’re someone who likes to take your time soaking in views or wandering around, be prepared for a brisk pace. That said, most found the schedule well-organized, with only a few mentioning the need for a more relaxed tempo.

The Overall Experience and Why It Works

This tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to the Blue Mountains—combining wildlife encounters, scenic rides, iconic vistas, and tasty food. The small group setting fosters a more intimate atmosphere, allowing for genuine interactions with guides and fellow travelers. The inclusion of meals, rides, and entry fees means you won’t be surprised by additional costs, making budgeting simpler.

The reviews consistently highlight the safety, professionalism, and enthusiasm of the guides, which adds considerable value. From featuring “breathtaking views” to the delicious food options and chocolate treats, this tour balances adventure with comfort and fun.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and expert guidance. If you’re after great photo opportunities, wildlife encounters, and scenic rides, this tour ticks all those boxes. Keep in mind the pace might be a little quicker than some prefer, so if you want a slow, relaxed day, this might need some slight adjustments.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and value-packed day in the Blue Mountains, this tour delivers. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, wildlife, and inclusive meals offers a seamless experience that hits most of the highlights without the stress of planning. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see the best of the Blue Mountains—from iconic rock formations and lush rainforests to charming towns and delicious chocolates—all in one fun-filled day.

While some may find the schedule a touch hurried, the overall experience is highly praised for its professionalism, authenticity, and memorable sights. This tour suits travelers eager to explore, learn, and capture incredible photos, making it a worthwhile addition to your Australian itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, making travel between sites stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time between destinations.

What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 21 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are all entrance fees and rides included?
Yes, the tour includes entry to Sydney Zoo and Scenic World, plus two rides at Scenic World—the Railway and Cableway.

What food options are provided?
A delicious lunch with a drink is included, along with a hot chocolate from Josophan’s Fine Chocolate after lunch. No breakfast or bottled water are included.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available if canceled early enough.

Ready to explore the Blue Mountains with confidence? This tour combines the right mix of adventure, scenery, and comfort, making it a great choice for those seeking a memorable day in nature.