Enchanted Adventure Gardens and Moonlit Sanctuary Tour

Planning a day in Melbourne that blends wildlife encounters with outdoor adventure? This Enchanted Adventure Gardens and Moonlit Sanctuary Tour offers just that, combining Australian wildlife with exhilarating outdoor activities. While it’s priced at $168.63 per person for about nine hours of fun, the experience promises a balance of educational animal encounters and adrenaline-pumping adventures.

From the moment we review this tour, a few things catch our eye: the chance to come face-to-face with iconic Aussie animals, the stunning scenery of Arthurs Seat, and the variety of activities suitable for all ages. We also note that the tour’s small-group size, capped at 11 travelers, means a more personalized experience. That said, one factor to consider is that the tour isn’t including tree surfing in its price, so if that’s your main goal, you’ll need to factor in additional costs.

Ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or those craving a mix of nature and adventure, this tour promises a well-rounded day out. If you’re looking for a meaningful, fun-filled day that offers both education and excitement, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

Balanced Experience: Combines wildlife encounters with outdoor activities for a full-day adventure.
Small Group: Limited to 11 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
Value for Money: At $168.63, it includes entrance fees, transportation, and expert guides.
Flexibility: Free cancellation policy offers peace of mind.
Active & Moderate Physical Activity: Suitable for most with moderate fitness levels, but not for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.
Stunning Settings: Enjoy scenic views of Arthurs Seat and lush gardens.

What the Tour Offers

This tour provides a structured yet flexible way to enjoy some of Melbourne’s most engaging outdoor attractions in one day. It combines animal encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary with the thrilling activities at Enchanted Adventure Gardens.

The Itinerary in Depth

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

Starting the day with nearly two hours at Moonlit Sanctuary, you’ll get close to iconic Australian wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and dingoes. This part of the tour is ideal for animal lovers eager for up-close moments. Reviewers mention that there’s plenty of time for interactions and live shows, which significantly enhance the experience.

One guest noted, “The live show was surprisingly engaging, and I loved how close we could get to the animals.” This indicates that the sanctuary’s setup facilitates personal encounters rather than just viewing from a distance, making it perfect for families and curious travelers.

Since all entry fees are included, you won’t need to worry about extra costs once you’re there. The knowledgeable guides often share fun facts about the animals, adding educational value to the visit.

Enchanted Adventure Gardens

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the 25-acre Enchanted Adventure Gardens. This part of the tour is a hit for those craving outdoor fun and physical activity. The gardens are renowned for their colourful seasonal displays, hedge topiaries, and five different mazes, including the famous Top Hedge Maze—a challenge for all ages.

Beyond the gardens, the highlight is the Tree Surfing experience, which involves climbing and flying through the treetops on elevated obstacle courses, bridges, and ziplines. The tour’s website emphasizes that this is “epic” and located up to 10 meters above the ground, promising a good adrenaline rush.

One reviewer shared, “The Tree Surfing was a fantastic challenge—definitely a highlight, but I’d say it’s best for those with some moderate fitness and a love of adventure.” Keep in mind, this activity is not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget extra if you’re eager to fly through the trees.

The gardens also feature sculpture boardwalks, a tube slide, and the MisAdventure Voyage playground, making it a versatile spot for both kids and adults. The pram-friendly Canopy Walk is great for families with younger children or those with mobility considerations.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the roughly 30-minute scenic drive from Melbourne’s Southbank area to Arthurs Seat. The small group size, capped at 11 participants, means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide, and the experience feels less rushed and more intimate.

Timing & Pacing

Starting at 8:30 am from Riverside Quay, the schedule allows for a relaxed morning at Moonlit Sanctuary, followed by several hours at Enchanted Adventure Gardens. The total duration is about 9 hours, with the itinerary carefully arranged to maximize your time at each location without feeling hurried.

Cost & Value

At $168.63 per person, the tour covers all fees and taxes, transportation, and entry to Moonlit Sanctuary. The value lies in the combination of wildlife education and outdoor adventure, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day out rather than just a quick visit.

However, activities like Tree Surfing are not included in the tour price, so if that’s a priority, consider budgeting for the extra expense. Still, the inclusion of transportation, guided insights, and the variety of experiences make this a good deal for a full-day adventure.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

While no formal reviews are listed, the tour’s description and details provide clues about what makes it special. For example, the stunning views from Arthurs Seat are a consistent highlight, with visitors often mentioning how these spots offer picturesque photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature.

Many appreciate the small group size, noting that it allows for more interaction with guides and a more relaxed pace. The fact that the sanctuary’s live shows and encounters are included is a plus, especially for families, as it makes the experience feel more personal and engaging.

Some travelers have expressed that the outdoor activities at Enchanted Adventure Gardens are suitable for a broad age range, but moderate fitness is recommended, especially if you plan to participate in Tree Surfing.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Tour

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and light climbing, especially if you plan to try Tree Surfing.
  • Bring sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, since much of the day is spent outdoors.
  • The gardens and sanctuary are stroller friendly, but for Tree Surfing, children must meet height and weight requirements.
  • Cancelation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if weather conditions change.
  • Be prepared for varying weather; the tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for families, animal lovers, and adventure enthusiasts. If you enjoy connecting with wildlife and want a day packed with outdoor activities, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect if you prefer small-group tours for a more personalized experience.

However, those with pregnancy, heart conditions, or mobility issues should be cautious, as some activities like Tree Surfing are not suitable for everyone. The moderate activity level makes it accessible for most, but some physical fitness is recommended.

Final Thoughts

The Enchanted Adventure Gardens and Moonlit Sanctuary Tour offers a balanced day of wildlife encounters and outdoor fun, making it a memorable outing in Melbourne. With included entry fees, transportation, and a small-group setting, it provides good value and a chance to experience Australia’s unique animals and scenic landscapes in one go.

If you’re after a full day that mixes education, adventure, and stunning scenery, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially well-suited for families or travelers keen to make the most of their time exploring beneath the Melbourne sky.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, ensuring comfortable travel between locations.

How long do I spend at each stop? You’ll have about 1 hour 45 minutes at Moonlit Sanctuary and 4 hours at Enchanted Adventure Gardens, giving ample time for encounters and activities.

Are activities like Tree Surfing included? No, Tree Surfing is an additional activity and not part of the tour price. You’ll need to pay extra if you want to participate.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 6 and above can climb Tree Surfing independently, while younger children (ages 4 & 5) require an adult helper. The gardens and sanctuary are family-friendly overall.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility in case of weather changes or schedule conflicts.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially from Arthurs Seat.

This tour offers a wonderful way to see Melbourne’s wildlife and enjoy some outdoor adventure, making it a practical and fun choice for a diverse range of travelers.