Brisbane: Springbrook and Mt Tamborine Glow Worm and Skywalk
Exploring the Gold Coast Hinterland and the Scenic Rim with a trusted guide offers a way to experience Queensland’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. This full-day tour from Brisbane combines lush rainforests, breathtaking viewpoints, and unique attractions like glow worms and skywalks—all in one seamless trip.
What genuinely sets this experience apart are the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive, the chance to walk high above the rainforest canopy, and the inclusion of local treats like fudge and honey. The total package is a fantastic value at $148 per person, especially considering the variety of sights and activities packed into just one day.
However, be aware that this tour involves around 1.5 hours of driving each way and some walking on uneven, sometimes steep, paths. This makes it best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness and a sense of adventure. Ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone eager to capture Australia’s lush landscapes in a single day, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Queensland’s scenic treasures.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Balanced Itinerary: Combines rainforest walks, scenic viewpoints, glow worm caves, and skywalks.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Tania and Mark add layers of fun and knowledge, enriching the experience.
- Comfortable Transport: Small group sizes (max 12) ensure a cozy, personalized feel.
- Value for Money: Includes lunch, snacks, water, and multiple attractions at $148.
- Physical Activity: Some walking, stairs, and inclines mean moderate fitness is recommended.
- Authentic Experiences: Hands-on tasting at galleries and a glow worm cave tour provide memorable moments.
Looking for more options in Brisbane? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Discovering Queensland’s Best Natural Attractions
Starting just 1.5 hours from Brisbane, this tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights of Springbrook National Park and Mount Tamborine without the stress of self-driving or planning. From the moment you hop into the comfy, air-conditioned van, you’re set for a day full of stunning scenery, fascinating wildlife, and fun facts from your guides.
Exploring Springbrook National Park: The Natural Bridge & Waterfalls
The journey begins with a visit to the Springbrook National Park, a UNESCO-listed rainforest that’s known for its dramatic rock formations and lush greenery. The highlight here is the Natural Bridge, a natural rock arch carved by flowing creek and underground volcanic activity. The walk to this formation takes around 30 minutes, rated easy to moderate, but be prepared for some stairs and inclines.
Reviewers often mention how the guides keep the tone lively and informative—no boring tree lectures here. One traveler shared, “We learn a lot and had a great time,” which speaks to the engaging storytelling that guides like Tania bring. The area is also dotted with waterfalls and scenic spots perfect for snapping photos.
Scenic Drive & Mt Tamborine: Views and Village Charm
After the rainforest adventure, the tour takes you through the beautiful Scenic Rim, a region renowned for its rolling hills, farms, and panoramic views. The drive lasts around an hour, giving you ample opportunity to soak in the landscape. You’ll often see paragliders soaring from Mt Tamborine, which adds a splash of excitement to the scenery.
Reaching Mount Tamborine, a charming village perched 525 meters above sea level, offers sweeping views from multiple lookout points, including vistas stretching to the Great Dividing Range and Lamington National Park. It’s a perfect spot for those photos that make everyone jealous.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch & Gallery Walk Shopping
A hearty, cafe-style lunch is included, giving you a well-deserved break amid your busy day of sightseeing. Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, describing it as “yummy” and “filling,” which helps recharge for the afternoon adventures.
Post-lunch, you’ll have a brief stop at Gallery Walk, a vibrant shopping strip known for local art, crafts, and tasty treats. Many reviewers recommend tasting the freshly made fudge and honey here—an authentic experience that adds flavor to your trip.
The Magical Glow Worm Cave Experience
One of the tour’s standout moments is the visit to Cedar Creek Estate’s Glow Worm Cave. The guides explain the lifecycle of glow worms and why they emit light—facts that fascinate kids and adults alike. The cave is home to over 3,000 glow worms, creating a starry, magical atmosphere.
Reviewers like Jessica from Australia noted, “Very cool to see the glow worms,” describing it as a highlight. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make this moment both educational and mesmerizing, especially after a day of walking and exploring.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk: Walking Among the Canopy
The day concludes with the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, a 1.5 km circuit through the treetops of a privately-owned 30-acre rainforest. This includes a 40-meter cantilever bridge soaring 30 meters above the creek and rainforest canopy—an experience that will thrill everyone, from kids to adults.
The steel bridges are high-tech and lightweight, offering a safe but exhilarating perspective of the forest from above. Reviewers mention spending around 45 minutes here at a leisurely pace, enjoying the flora and fauna displays along the way. The views and fresh air make this a fitting finale to a day rich with natural wonders.
Practical Details & Tips
Transport & Group Size: The small group setting (max 12) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The air-conditioned vans make the long drives comfortable, and guides like Mark and Tania are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
Duration & Timing: The full-day tour lasts about 8 hours, starting early around 8:40-8:45 AM from Brisbane. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a flexible, active itinerary, and the timing allows for a leisurely exploration of each site.
Cost & Value: At $148 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included lunch, snacks, bottled water, and multiple attractions. Reviewers frequently mention that it’s a worthwhile expense for the quality of experiences and guided insights.
Physical Considerations: Expect some walking on uneven, sometimes steep, paths, and stairs—moderate fitness is recommended. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or altitude sickness.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, umbrella, and a small daypack. Large bags aren’t permitted, so pack light.
Extras: You can bring snacks and beverages on board, which is handy during the long drives. Special dietary requests, including gluten-free or vegan options, can be accommodated on the day.
Insights from Reviews
Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many mentioning specific guides like Tania and Mark by name. Their ability to weave interesting facts into the day makes the trip educational and fun.
The skywalk and glow worm experiences are often highlighted as highlights, with many saying they exceeded expectations. Jessica from Australia called the glow worm cave “very cool,” and others appreciated how the guides explained the creatures’ lifecycle, making the experience more meaningful.
Lunch and shopping at Gallery Walk receive positive remarks too, with guests enjoying the local flavors and crafts. The included lunch is described as generous and tasty, making the trip feel like good value overall.
Some reviews mention the long drives—about 1.5 hours each way—but most agree the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. A few noted that the walks involve stairs and inclines, so those with mobility concerns might want to consider their fitness level.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for nature lovers eager to see Queensland’s forests, waterfalls, and wildlife with a knowledgeable guide. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle walks, scenic views, and interactive stops.
If you’re interested in unique wildlife experiences like glow worms or want to walk among the treetops on a skywalk, this tour delivers in spades. It’s also a good option if you prefer a stress-free day with transportation, lunch, and expert commentary included.
However, those with mobility issues or low fitness levels might find some parts challenging, particularly the stairs and inclines during the rainforest walk and skywalk.
FAQs
How long is the drive from Brisbane?
The drive to Springbrook National Park is about 1.5 hours each way, providing scenery between stops that many guests enjoy.
What is included in the tour?
The price covers transportation, a guide, lunch at a local cafe, a snack, and bottled water. Attractions like the glow worm cave and skywalk are part of the experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for walking. Bringing sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and an umbrella is also recommended, as weather can vary.
Is this tour suitable for kids?
Many reviews mention families enjoyed the day, especially children interested in wildlife and nature. However, some walking involves stairs and inclines, so consider fitness levels.
Can I buy souvenirs or taste local products?
Yes, Gallery Walk offers local art, crafts, fudge, and honey to sample and purchase. It’s a great opportunity to support local artisans.
What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. The rainforest and skywalk are outdoor attractions, so waterproof clothing and umbrellas are advisable.
Is the tour physically demanding?
Moderate fitness is recommended due to walking, stairs, and inclines. Those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level before booking.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, special dietary requests like gluten-free or vegan options can usually be arranged on the day, sometimes for an extra charge.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Queensland’s natural beauty, combining adventure, scenic views, and local flavors. The small group size and expert guides foster a personal and engaging environment, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore without the hassle of planning.
You’ll leave with a camera full of photos, a head full of interesting facts, and memories of some truly breathtaking sights. For anyone looking to see the lush rainforests, experience glow worms, and walk among the treetops—all in one day—this tour provides excellent value and an authentic taste of Australia’s scenic gems.
Whether you’re visiting Brisbane for a short stay or looking for a meaningful day trip into nature, this tour ticks many boxes and offers a balanced, enjoyable experience for all ages.
Source: GetYourGuide
You can check availability for your dates here:More Dolphin Watching Tours in Brisbane
More Cycling Tours in Brisbane
More Tour Reviews in Brisbane
- Brisbane Luxurious pop up picnic at the City Botanic gardens
- Moreton Island: Tangalooma ATV Quad Bike and Dolphin Viewing
- Brisbane: Vertigo Dinner Dining on the Edge
- Brisbane: Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea
- Brisbane: Private Brisbane Tour with Stops
- From Brisbane: Day Trip to Noosa, Glass House Mtns and Zoo
Still browsing? Here are more Brisbane experiences we've covered recently
- Brisbane Luxurious pop up picnic at the City Botanic gardens
- Moreton Island: Tangalooma ATV Quad Bike and Dolphin Viewing
- Brisbane: Vertigo Dinner Dining on the Edge
- Brisbane: Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea
- Brisbane: Private Brisbane Tour with Stops
- From Brisbane: Day Trip to Noosa, Glass House Mtns and Zoo
- Sunshine Coast: Scuba Dive the Ex-HMAS Brisbane Ship Wreck
- Moreton Island: Tangalooma Day Trip Marine Discovery Cruise
- Brisbane: University of Queensland Guided Walking Tour
- Brisbane: Springbrook and Mt Tamborine Glow Worm and Skywalk
- From Brisbane: Maiala Rainforest Private Tour
- Roma: Lost World Carnarvons and Wallaroo Day Tour