Hobart: Mt Wellington, Mt Field, Bonorong and Richmond Trip

Planning a day out in Tasmania? This tour offers a fantastic way to get a taste of the island’s natural beauty, wildlife, and charming towns without feeling rushed. Whether you’re keen to see iconic waterfalls, meet Tasmanian devils, or soak in panoramic mountain views, this trip covers it all.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the knowledgeable guides who bring Tasmania’s stories alive, the chance to feed kangaroos in a sanctuary, and the stunning scenery at Mt Field. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the Mt Wellington visit is weather-dependent—so clouds or wind might affect your views.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, value-packed taste of Tasmania’s wilderness and culture. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive day out with plenty of wildlife encounters and scenic views, all with expert guidance.

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Key Points

All-inclusive value at $118 covers major attractions and entry fees.
Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and enthusiasm.
Flexible itinerary adjusts for weather, especially on Mt Wellington.
Wildlife interaction includes hand-feeding kangaroos and spotting Tasmanian devils.
Scenic highlights like Russell Falls and panoramic mountain views are unforgettable.
Time-efficient 9-hour trip maximizes your day in Tasmania.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hobart Day Trip

This tour, operated by iWander Tasmania, packs a lot into a single day—covering Tasmania’s lush landscapes, iconic wildlife, and historic towns. Starting early from most Hobart hotels, the journey quickly sets a relaxed yet exciting pace.

Looking for more options in Hobart? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting with the Derwent Valley and Old Pubs

The trip kicks off with a scenic drive through the Derwent Valley, a landscape dotted with farms, rolling hills, and historic buildings. One of the highlights is passing Australia’s oldest operating pub, a charming piece of local history. This sets the tone for the day—blending natural beauty with cultural insights.

Mount Wellington: Breathtaking or Cloudy?

The visit to Mt Wellington is often a major highlight, offering sweeping views over Hobart and the surrounding landscape. However, the timing can shift depending on weather conditions—sometimes the summit is shrouded in clouds or windy. That’s a common theme with mountain excursions, but it’s worth the risk for the chance to stand atop one of Tasmania’s most iconic peaks.

Reviewers frequently mention the views being spectacular when clear. One traveler noted, “The view from Mount Wellington was amazing, even with a little snow and rainbow,” emphasizing that even fleeting moments of good weather make this a worthwhile stop.

Exploring Mt Field National Park

Next, the tour heads to Mt Field National Park, famous for its waterfalls and towering trees. Russell Falls is a must-see, with many describing it as a “beautiful waterfall within easy walking distance.” The walk through fern forests and among some of the world’s tallest trees is a highlight for nature lovers.

Travelers often say that the rainforest walk feels like stepping into a fairytale, with enormous ferns and lush greenery. One reviewer shared, “The walk at Mt Field was stunning, with beautiful waterfalls and fresh mountain air.” The park’s diverse scenery provides plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.

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The Wildlife Sanctuary: Bonorong

A big draw is Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can meet and even feed some of Tasmania’s most beloved animals. The experience of hand-feeding kangaroos and discovering Tasmanian devils is both fun and educational. The sanctuary’s focus on rescue and rehabilitation adds a meaningful dimension to the visit.

Multiple reviews highlight how much they enjoyed this part of the trip. One traveler commented, “Feeding kangaroos was such a cool experience,” while another appreciated the chance to see Tasmanian devils up close. Guides like Brett, who is praised for his passion and knowledge, make this segment especially engaging.

There's plenty more to explore in Hobart

Discovering Richmond’s Charm

The tour wraps up with a visit to Richmond, a quaint town famous for its historic bridge and colonial architecture. Many find strolling the cobbled streets a delightful way to soak in Tasmania’s heritage. Some reviewers mention enjoying local cafes and tasting the town’s charming atmosphere—though the stop is often brief, it leaves a lasting impression.

One guest summed it up: “Richmond is a lovely place to walk around and take photos. The old buildings are beautiful, and it feels like stepping back in time.”

Practicalities and Comfort

The trip includes transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entry to Russell Falls and Bonorong Sanctuary. It’s a full 9 hours of exploration, making it a good value for the price of $118 per person. The group sizes tend to be small, led by friendly guides who keep the experience personalized.

Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Scott and Garry for their friendliness, extensive knowledge, and humorous storytelling. They not only explain Tasmania’s flora, fauna, and history but also share personal insights, making the experience more genuine.

Transportation and Timing

Vans are comfortable but note that the trip can be tight for some—like one reviewer who mentioned the bus was a bit snug but still enjoyed the day. The timing is flexible around weather conditions, especially for the Mt Wellington visit, which might be early morning or late afternoon depending on clouds and wind.

What to Bring & Additional Tips

Travelers are advised to pack comfortable shoes and water for the day. The tour operates in English, and cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What Makes This Tour a Top Choice?

Value for Money: For $118, you get a comprehensive day that includes major natural attractions, wildlife encounters, and a historic town. The reviews consistently mention how much is packed into the nine hours, making it a cost-effective way to see Tasmania’s highlights.

Expert Local Guides: Guides like Brett and Scott earn high praise for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience. Their stories about Tasmania’s plants, animals, and history make the trip engaging and educational.

Wildlife Experiences: The chance to feed kangaroos and see Tasmanian devils is a real treat. The sanctuary is noted for its rescue work, and many visitors appreciated the opportunity for close animal encounters in a responsible setting.

Scenic Diversity: From waterfalls to mountain views to historic towns, the tour captures many facets of Tasmania’s natural and cultural landscape. The varied scenery keeps the day interesting and photo-worthy.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the tour offers great value and variety, weather can influence some parts, especially Mt Wellington. If you’re visiting during a season with unpredictable weather, be prepared for the possibility of cloud cover or wind at the summit.

Plus, the trip is quite full, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch could enhance your experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers with limited time who want to see Tasmania’s key sights efficiently. It appeals to wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. If you appreciate guided tours that combine scenic vistas with engaging stories and wildlife encounters, this is a smart choice. It’s also ideal for families or small groups who enjoy a personable, informative day out.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected Hobart hotels and transportation during the day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with starting times typically between 7:35 and 7:50 am, depending on your pickup point.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there will be opportunities to grab a bite during the stop in New Norfolk or Richmond.

Can I see wildlife at Bonorong?
Absolutely. Visitors often hand-feed kangaroos and see Tasmanian devils. The sanctuary is focused on rescue and rehabilitation.

What if the weather is bad at Mount Wellington?
Your guide will adjust the schedule. The summit visit depends on weather conditions—and sometimes clouds or wind can prevent the views, but other stops remain unaffected.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if your kids enjoy wildlife and nature walks. Just be aware that some walks, like at Mt Field, can be leisurely but involve some walking.

Final Thoughts

This Hobart day trip offers a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic charm. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get insider stories and plenty of memorable moments—whether it’s feeding kangaroos, marveling at waterfalls, or standing atop Mt Wellington.

If you’re after a practical, engaging, and value-packed way to experience Tasmania’s highlights in a single day, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything, without sacrificing quality or authenticity.