Peaks, Falls & Furry Locals: Mt. Field & the Derwent

For those dreaming of experiencing Tasmania’s wilderness and wildlife without the hassle of planning, the Peaks, Falls & Furry Locals tour offers a carefully curated taste of the island’s best. With a 5-star rating based on 14 reviews, this trip combines stunning landscapes, close-up wildlife encounters, and optional gourmet dining — all in just one day.

What we love about this tour is its balance of nature, wildlife, and culinary experiences. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to showcase Tasmania’s lush rainforests, iconic waterfalls, and adorable native animals. The knowledgeable guides make a significant difference, bringing the stories and secrets of the region to life. Plus, the private tour nature ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cost ($654.67 per person) might seem steep for some travelers, but considering the inclusions — particularly the wildlife sanctuary visit and the potential for a delicious farm-to-plate lunch — many find it offers solid value. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a flexible, intimate experience of Tasmania’s highlights.

Key Points

• Tailored Experience: Private tour with your group only, allowing for a more relaxed, customizable day.
• Diverse Highlights: Includes rainforest walks, waterfalls, wildlife encounters, and optional gourmet lunch.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Angus or Penny are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Value for Money: Combines multiple attractions and experiences, making the overall price worthwhile.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Pickup offered, near public transport, with a duration of 8–9 hours to fit into your day.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up with Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, and more in sanctuaries, not just zoos.

The Itinerary in Detail

Exploring Mount Field National Park

Your adventure begins at Mount Field National Park, often regarded as one of Tasmania’s most beloved parks. This scenic area is a highlight for nature lovers, thanks to its ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and mountain lakes.

The walks and hikes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring all fitness levels can enjoy the scenery. Expect to see Russell Falls, one of the region’s most iconic cascades, renowned for its ethereal beauty. Reviewers like Angus, one of the guides, have shared that walking among the Eucalyptus trees and towering ferns offers a chance to feel both humbled and awe-inspired.

The 4-hour visit is designed to allow ample time for exploration and photography without feeling rushed. With free admission, the focus remains on enjoying the scenery and learning from your guide about the park’s flora and fauna, which they often do with a contagious enthusiasm.

Wildlife Sanctuary: Bonorong

Next, the tour heads to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, a favorite among visitors for its dedicated conservation work. This visit is a fantastic opportunity to get up close with native Tasmanian animals, including Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, and echidnas.

Reviewers frequently mention how engaging and well-informed guides like Noah or Penny enhance the experience. They note that the sanctuary provides a more personal encounter with the animals, as opposed to a typical zoo setting. This is a real chance to see these creatures in environments that mimic their natural habitats.

Most visitors find the one-hour visit perfect for appreciating the animals and learning about their unique behaviors and conservation challenges. Plus, the sanctuary’s work with native species gives this part of the tour a meaningful purpose beyond just sightseeing.

Optional Farm-to-Plate Lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen

The tour offers the chance to enjoy a farm-to-plate lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen, a highly praised, food-focused restaurant in New Norfolk, open Friday to Sunday. This experience is not included in the tour price but is highly recommended by travelers for its locally sourced, seasonal dishes.

If you choose to indulge, you can expect a delightful meal paired with Tasmania’s best produce, often highlighted for its quality and freshness. Previous visitors appreciated guides like Penny for accommodating dietary preferences and making the dining experience effortless.

Flexibility & Personalization

The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup offered from your accommodation or a central location. The private nature of the trip means your party can enjoy a more relaxed pace, linger in favorite spots, or skip certain parts if preferred.

Groups generally are small, and the duration of 8–9 hours allows for a leisurely experience while still fitting into a day’s schedule. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is designed to be inclusive and engaging.

Why This Tour Works for You

You’ll love the way guides like Angus and Penny bring Tasmania’s stories to life with their local knowledge and enthusiasm. Their insights turn a scenic drive into an educational adventure.

The stunning scenery and wildlife encounters are genuine highlights, especially the chance to see iconic animals like Tasmanian Devils up close. The park walks are accessible and inspiring, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a bit of everything.

The optional lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen adds a delicious local flavor, perfect for foodies wanting to taste Tasmania’s farm-fresh produce.

However, the price tag might be a consideration if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Some might prefer a less inclusive, lower-cost alternative, but many find the value in the curated, high-quality experience.

Overall, this tour fits best for those who prioritize nature, wildlife, and culinary experiences, and want a private, flexible day out without the stress of organizing multiple activities.

Final Thoughts

This trip offers a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s natural splendor. The stops at Mount Field and Bonorong are thoughtfully chosen, giving you a perfect blend of stunning landscapes and fascinating animals. Guides receive high praise for their local expertise and friendliness, which makes the experience all the more memorable.

The optional farm-to-plate meal provides an authentic taste of Tasmania’s vibrant food scene, elevating an already impressive day. The private format means your group can wander at your own pace and indulge in the moments that matter most.

While the price is on the higher side, the multi-activity approach, personalized attention, and quality of experiences make it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for those who value a balanced mix of adventure, education, and gourmet delights.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic taste of Tasmania—with the bonus of expert guides and wildlife encounters—this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as it’s designed with a gentle pace and accessible walks, it’s suitable for most ages, including families and seniors.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation, guide services, and admission to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. The farm-to-plate lunch is optional and not included.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 8–9 hours, starting at 9:00 am with pickup included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor parts of the day to your interests, such as spending more time in certain spots or skipping others.

Is transportation comfortable?
Most travelers find the vehicle comfortable and suitable for the day’s activities, with convenient pickup options.

Are meals included?
No, the gourmet lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen is optional and paid separately, but many travelers choose to indulge for a true farm-to-plate experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and some snacks or water for the day.

Is there any free time?
Yes, the itinerary includes time for lingering at viewpoints or enjoying a picnic if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, and various bird species, depending on the time of year and wildlife activity.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is private, so only your group participates, providing an intimate experience.

This carefully curated day offers a fantastic way to experience Tasmania’s raw beauty and vibrant wildlife—a memorable journey perfect for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.