Private Wildlife Tour Wombats Kangaroos and Waterfalls

Traveling to Australia offers an incredible chance to see native wildlife in their natural environment, and this private tour promises just that—plus breathtaking scenery and expert guidance. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews give us a clear picture of what to expect.

What really stands out are the opportunity to see wombats and kangaroos in the wild, the chance to explore stunning landmarks like Fitzroy Falls, and the flexibility of a private guide to tailor your experience. We love the focus on authentic encounters, the scenic drives with plenty of stops, and the inclusion of a picnic lunch for a true Aussie day out.

However, keep in mind that with roughly 5 hours of driving in total, this tour demands a good deal of time on the road. If you’re not a fan of long car rides or have limited mobility, that might be a consideration.

This experience suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a personalized adventure in the New South Wales countryside. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with chances to spot native animals and explore iconic waterfalls, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

  • Personalized Experience: Private tour with tailored guidance ensures a flexible, intimate day.
  • Wildlife Encounters: One of the best opportunities in NSW to see wombats and kangaroos in the wild.
  • Stunning Scenery: Panoramic views, waterfalls, and historic bridges make for memorable photo moments.
  • Comprehensive Itinerary: Multiple stops with diverse landscapes, from coastal lookouts to lush valleys.
  • Value for Money: All transportation, guides, and entrance fees are included, plus a picnic lunch.
  • Long Travel Time: Expect about 5 hours of driving, with frequent stops to keep it comfortable.

An In-Depth Review of the Itinerary

Starting at Wollongong: Mount Keira Lookout

The day kicks off early from Sydney’s central area, with a roughly 1.5-hour drive to Mount Keira Lookout. From the moment you arrive, the sweeping views of Wollongong, the coastline, and the Illawarra Escarpment are enough to make you forget about the early start. The lookout provides a fantastic panoramic perspective—perfect for catching the morning light reflecting off the ocean. A short nature walk here is a highlight, allowing you to appreciate the local flora and perhaps spot some birds or insects thriving in this part of the world.

Travelers have commented on the “breathtaking views” and how the guide often stops along the way, which adds an extra layer of comfort and engagement. The drive itself is a chance to relax and chat with your guide, who typically has a wealth of local knowledge.

Carrington Falls: A Refreshing Short Walk

Next, the tour visits Carrington Falls, a spectacular spot where water drops 90 meters into the valley below. The short 300-meter return walk makes this accessible for most visitors, and the sound of rushing water combined with lush greenery makes it a peaceful pause. The falls are a popular photo spot, and many guests mention how impressive the volume of water is, especially after recent rains.

This stop offers a quick but memorable encounter with nature, and the included admission fee means no extra cost. Expect to spend around 40 minutes here, giving enough time for photos and a bit of stretching.

Fitzroy Falls: A Waterfall Masterpiece

One of the tour’s highlights is Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the well-maintained trails and viewing platforms. From here, the waterfall plunges over 80 meters into the lush valley below—a sight that truly captures the power and beauty of nature.

The trails are suitable for most fitness levels, but the main attraction is the view from the lookout. Wildlife sightings are possible, with reports of native birds and even wallabies nearby. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photos.

Hampden Bridge: A Historic Landmark

A short 15-minute drive takes you to Hampden Bridge, Australia’s only surviving wooden suspension bridge. Built in 1895, this charming structure holds historical significance and offers picturesque views of Kangaroo Valley. Photographers will love the chance to frame the bridge with the surrounding landscape—a perfect spot for capturing memories of the day.

Guests often describe Hampden Bridge as a “quintessential piece of Australian history,” adding a cultural element to the nature-focused tour.

Kangaroo Valley: Wombats and Kangaroos in the Wild

The final major stop is Kangaroo Valley, where wildlife sightings are the main event. This part of the tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving visitors a decent window to observe wombats and kangaroos in their natural habitats.

It’s worth noting that wildlife in the wild is unpredictable—sightings are not guaranteed, but most guests have seen wombats or kangaroos, sometimes both. The tour guides emphasize keeping a respectful distance and not patting the animals, but many travelers manage to get great photos and close-up views.

The drive to this spot is just 10 minutes, and the area is known for being one of the best places in NSW to see wombats during the day.

Return Journey to Sydney

After the wildlife viewing, the group heads back to Sydney, with a roughly 2-hour drive. The trip typically concludes around early evening, making this a full, satisfying day out. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive more pleasant, and the guide often shares local stories or additional insights during the return.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers most essentials: guidance, private transport, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and a picnic lunch. The lunch is a thoughtful addition, giving you energy for the active day.

Extras like restroom facilities on board and WiFi are not included, so plan accordingly. The tour is designed for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each stop.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At around $991.93 per group (up to 11 people), this experience offers a good value considering it includes a private guide, transportation, entrance fees, and a picnic lunch. For wildlife lovers and those wanting a personalized, flexible day with expert guidance, this price reflects the convenience and quality of the experience.

Compared to larger group tours, the intimacy here allows for more tailored attention—your guide can focus on your interests, whether that’s wildlife photography or simply leisurely enjoying the scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private wildlife adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts eager to see wombats and kangaroos in the wild, photographers seeking iconic landscapes and wildlife shots, and families or couples wanting a relaxed, curated experience. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and driving and who appreciate the flexibility that private tours offer.

FAQ

How long is the total activity?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, with about 5 hours of active exploration and a total of around 5 hours of driving, including stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Central Station Kiss and Ride Bay, Haymarket, Sydney, and finishes back at the same location.

Is food included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is included, providing a convenient and tasty meal during your day.

What kind of vehicle is used?
An air-conditioned private vehicle ensures comfort throughout the long drive and stops.

How much wildlife might we see?
While sightings are not guaranteed, most guests have seen wombats or kangaroos, with many seeing both during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the walking involved at various stops might be challenging for some. It’s best to discuss specific needs with the provider.

Final Thoughts

This private wildlife tour from Sydney offers a carefully curated mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural landmarks. Combining expert guiding, a relaxed pace, and stunning locations, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic, personalized Australian adventure. The inclusion of a picnic lunch, all fees, and private transport makes it a hassle-free way to explore some of NSW’s most iconic natural sights.

If your goal is to see wombats, kangaroos, and waterfalls without the crowds, and you value a guided experience tailored to your interests, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want in-depth, authentic encounters with Australia’s unique outdoors and native animals.

In summary, this tour offers a well-balanced day of scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and cultural stops—all with the comfort and flexibility of a private guide. It’s suited for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the gorgeous landscape surrounding Sydney in a relaxed, meaningful way.