South Australia’s 5 Best Full-Day Tours: Which To Choose?

South Australia offers one of the most diverse and rewarding landscapes for full-day tours. Whether you want to sip world-class wines, explore scenic villages, or venture into the Outback, this region delivers. We especially love the Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour for its personalized touch and luxurious transport, and the Full Day VIP Private Tour for ultimate flexibility—perfect if you prefer a tailored experience. These tours give you a chance to engage directly with passionate winemakers or customize your day around your interests. Plus, with options like the Painted Desert tour or the Barossa Valley experience, there’s something for every traveler craving adventure or fine wine.

Quick Overview

South Australia’s full-day tours span luxury wine tastings, guided scenic explorations, and Outback excursions. Whether you’re relaxing at exclusive cellar doors, discovering charming towns like Hahndorf, or exploring rugged desert landscapes, these options highlight the region’s best. Below, we take a closer look at each of the top five tours to help you pick your perfect day out.

1. Private Coonawarra Full Day Wine Tour With Lunch

At number 1, this private wine tour offers a stylish way to explore Coonawarra’s famed “Terra Rossa” vineyards. Traveling in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz V-Class, your group gets exclusive access to up to five cellar doors. The itinerary includes visits to iconic wineries like Parker Estate and Wynns Coonawarra Estate, both celebrated for their rich reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. You also enjoy a taste of Ottelia’s seasonal menu, featuring dishes made with ingredients from their kitchen garden, and sourdough pizzas—perfect for a relaxed, gourmet lunch.

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized focus. Unlike larger group tours, this one allows you to engage directly with winemakers and enjoy private tastings. With a total duration of about 6.5 hours, it offers a leisurely pace that’s ideal for couples or small groups who prefer comfort and tailored experiences. Reviews highlight the excellent service and high-quality wine, with one traveler noting: “Every winery had friendly staff and great wine. Lunch was also excellent.”

Bottom Line: If you value comfort, privacy, and a curated wine experience, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a luxurious way to indulge in South Australia’s top wines and regional charm.

2. Shore Excursion: Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour

At number 2, this tour is designed specifically for cruise ship passengers, making it a hassle-free way to experience the famous Barossa Valley. For about $154, you’ll visit 3-4 cellar doors including Kersbrook Hill Wines & Cider, known for its cool-climate wines and artisanal ciders, and Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, a culinary icon. The tour includes a delectable winery lunch and some time at the Barossa Valley Chocolate Factory for a sweet treat.

This tour’s advantage is its timing and convenience—matching your ship’s schedule while offering a full day of wine, food, and local culture. The small-group size enhances the experience, and the focus on boutique wineries makes it a great choice for those seeking authenticity without over-crowding. One reviewer mentioned, “This is an excellent full-day tour of the Barossa Valley,” praising the guide and the relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Australia’s premier wine region without the worry of logistics, this tour combines quality wine, food, and scenic stops in a compact package.

3. Full Day VIP Private Tour (Cruise Passengers Only)

Number 3 on our list is a high-end, fully customizable experience for cruise guests who want complete control over their day. For around $609 per group (up to 4 people), this tour can include visits to Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, or even McLaren Vale—whichever you prefer. You’ll be picked up from the Port Adelaide Passenger Terminal and can shape your itinerary with your personal driver.

The flexibility is the key feature—whether you want to visit charming towns like Hahndorf, explore scenic vineyards, or see coastal sights like Victor Harbor. You can add on lunch at a winery or enjoy local cafes, making each trip unique. The guide will confirm your schedule 24 hours prior, ensuring your preferences are front and center. One reviewer enjoyed the freedom this tour offered, noting it was a great alternative to large group excursions.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a tailored, private experience and are willing to invest a bit more for complete control over their day in South Australia.

4. Premium Adelaide Hills Full Day Shore Tour Cruise Port Pick-up

Number 4 focuses on cruise visitors seeking a scenic and cultural day in the Adelaide Hills. Starting at $179 per person, this 8.5-hour tour begins with sweeping views from Mount Lofty Summit and a guided visit to Cleland Wildlife Park, where you can see kangaroos and koalas up close. Afterward, the charming town of Hahndorf offers time for wandering, shopping, and lunch at your leisure.

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of wildlife encounters, stunning vistas, and local flavor. Visitors appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to see native animals in a natural setting. The visit to Melba’s Chocolate & Confectionery and Cobb’s Hill Estate provides the perfect mix of sweet and savory tastings. As one reviewer put it, “Liz was awesome with her knowledge about Adelaide and the animals.”

Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for cruise travelers wanting a scenic, wildlife-rich experience combined with some charming town exploration.

5. Full day The Painted Desert Tour in Outback South Australia

Number 5 takes you deep into the Outback for about 10 hours of exploration. Starting from Coober Pedy, this tour reveals the Painted Desert, Moon Plains, and Arckaringa Hills—landscapes formed over millions of years with vibrant colors and striking geological formations. Led by experienced guides, you’ll walk through remote terrain, viewing majestic mesas and ancient landscapes.

This tour appeals most to adventure seekers and geology enthusiasts. It offers a chance to experience authentic Outback scenery without the hassle of self-driving. The stops at Breakaways country showcase rugged beauty that’s unlike anything else in Australia. The tour is free to join, making it an excellent value for travelers eager to see the raw power of nature.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full immersion into Outback landscapes, especially if you enjoy geology, photography, or remote wilderness.

How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in South Australia

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. Do you want a luxurious, private experience, like the Coonawarra wine tour? Or are you seeking a tailored, flexible day like the VIP private tour—perfect if you want control? For cruise travelers, options such as the Barossa Valley tour or the Adelaide Hills tour provide seamless scheduling.

If your interests lean toward adventure and landscape, the Painted Desert tour offers an unforgettable Outback journey. Think about your fitness level, how much time you want to spend at each stop, and whether you prefer a guided group or a private experience.

Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons. While some tours are ideal for budget-minded travelers, others are perfect for those seeking premium comfort or customizable options.

In summary, South Australia offers a wide array of full-day tours, from intimate wine tastings in Coonawarra to scenic Outback explorations. For classic wine lovers, the Private Coonawarra tour stands out for its elegance and personal attention. If you’re a cruise passenger, the Barossa or Adelaide Hills tours provide hassle-free, scenic adventures. For those wanting a bespoke experience, the VIP private tour offers unmatched flexibility. Whichever you choose, booking early guarantees your spot in these memorable experiences.