Travelers seeking an authentic encounter with Australia’s night-time ecosystem will find this Southern Highlands: Nocturnal Wildlife Experience a compelling choice. Set in the picturesque New South Wales countryside, this 3.5-hour adventure offers a unique peek into the hidden world of native animals after sunset. From the warmth of a fireside welcome to the thrill of spotting elusive creatures through thermal vision, it promises an engaging mix of education and entertainment.
What makes this tour stand out? We appreciate the use of thermal monoculars to reveal wildlife that’s otherwise hidden in the dark, the relaxed, friendly atmosphere fostered around the firepit, and the chance to listen for iconic sounds like kookaburra laughter. It’s also a great value at $109, combining guided wildlife spotting with local food and drinks. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience requires a certain level of outdoor mobility and is not suitable for children under 10, which could limit some family groups.
This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts, couples, or groups looking for a peaceful, educational evening in the bush. If you’re after a genuine, family-friendly wildlife experience and don’t mind some uneven terrain, this adventure could be just the thing. For travelers wanting a more active, hands-on wildlife encounter or a focus on daytime sightseeing, other options might be preferable.
Key Points
- Wildlife at Night: Experience Australia’s nocturnal animals with guided walks and thermal vision.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy a warm welcome with drinks and snacks around the firepit.
- Educational & Fun: Listen for native bird calls and learn about local wildlife.
- Suitable for Adults & Older Kids: Not recommended for under 10s, due to outdoor conditions.
- Accessible Activities: Use of thermal monocular adds a high-tech twist to wildlife viewing.
- Value for Money: Combines wildlife, food, drinks, and an authentic bush experience at a reasonable price.
What to Expect on the Tour
Starting with a Fireside Welcome
The experience begins at Scribbly Farm, where you’re greeted with a warm Aussie welcome around a firepit. Here, you’ll enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or a soft drink, setting the relaxed tone for the evening. The friendly guides, including the personable host (you might meet someone like guide Chris, who’s known for his enthusiasm and local knowledge), make everyone feel comfortable from the start. This part of the evening is a chance to settle in, chat about what’s ahead, and get familiar with your surroundings.
The Guided Twilight Walk
After the initial welcome, the real adventure starts with a 90-minute walk across the farm’s 30-acre Untouched Paddock, bordered by the Nattai National Park. The terrain is uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended, but this walk offers a wonderful opportunity to see and hear native animals as they begin to emerge.
Expect to see animals like echidnas, wombats, and kangaroos grazing—”I loved how natural it felt,” a review noted, appreciating how the animals appeared in their usual habitat without the distraction of crowds. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sounds of kookaburras’ laughter fill the air, adding to the sense of being in a true wilderness setting.
Using Thermal Monoculars
Once darkness falls, the highlight of the tour kicks in: the use of thermal monoculars. This high-tech equipment allows you to spot wildlife that’s otherwise camouflaged in the shadows. Wildlife watchers have appreciated how this technology makes animals like wombats or koalas more visible, even from a distance. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing a wombat through the thermal scope was extraordinary—like peering into another world.”
It’s worth noting that the guide’s expertise plays a big role here; they can identify animals and share fascinating facts about their behaviors and habitats, adding educational value to the visual thrill.
More Great Tours NearbyFireside Snacks and Toasting Marshmallows
After the walk, you’ll gather around the open fire once more, where you’ll enjoy a grazing platter and hot chocolate or a glass of wine. Toasting marshmallows over the open flames is a charming, nostalgic touch, perfect for unwinding after the walk. This part of the tour encourages conversations about what you’ve seen and heard, and the relaxed ambiance makes for memorable moments.
Additional Details and Practicalities
- The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, generally scheduled for the evening, aligning with wildlife activity.
- Transport to the meeting point at Scribbly Farm is not included, so plan accordingly.
- The experience is guided in English, with a focus on educational storytelling and wildlife spotting.
- It’s not suitable for children under 10 and isn’t wheelchair accessible due to uneven outdoor surfaces.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $109 per person, this experience offers good value considering it combines guided wildlife viewing, high-tech equipment, local food and drinks, and a peaceful outdoor setting. For wildlife lovers, the opportunity to see native species in their natural environment, especially with the aid of thermal vision, justifies the cost. Compared to typical bushwalks, the added element of night vision and the social aspect around the fire elevate the experience beyond a simple walk.
What You’ll Gain
You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Australian nocturnal animals, a collection of unique photos (thanks to thermal imaging), and a sense of connection to the landscape. The combination of gentle walking, wildlife observation, and fireside relaxation makes this a well-rounded evening activity.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits adults and older children who are comfortable outdoors and interested in wildlife and nature. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers keen on eco-tourism and authentic Australian bush experiences. Families with children under 10 might find it less suitable due to uneven terrain and outdoor conditions, but older kids with a keen interest in animals would enjoy it.
It’s especially ideal for those looking for something different from typical daytime tours—something peaceful, immersive, and educational. If you’re after a relaxed pace, great stories from knowledgeable guides, and a chance to see Australia’s wildlife after dark, this tour ticks those boxes.
FAQ
Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transport is not included. You’ll need to organize your own way to Scribbly Farm, which is part of the experience’s flexibility.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, with the main activities including a guided walk and the fireside gathering.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to uneven surfaces and outdoor terrain.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and weather-appropriate clothing is advised since the outdoor conditions can vary in the evening.
What drinks are included?
A glass of sparkling wine or soft drink is offered during the welcome, and hot chocolate or wine is available afterward.
Are thermal monoculars safe?
Yes, they’re a safe, non-intrusive way to see wildlife at night, providing a fascinating view of animals in their natural habitat.
Can I take photos?
While thermal imaging produces unique visuals, standard cameras might not capture the thermal images well. It’s best to enjoy the moment and ask the guides if photos are allowed.
Is there a focus on education?
Absolutely. Guides share details about the animals’ behavior, environment, and the significance of nocturnal wildlife.
What’s the main highlight?
Using thermal monoculars to spot animals like wombats or kangaroos in the dark, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of the bush at night.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; in case of heavy rain or storms, check the cancellation policy or consider rescheduling.
The Southern Highlands Nocturnal Wildlife Experience offers a thoughtfully curated evening in the Australian bush, blending wildlife observation, local storytelling, and fireside relaxation. It’s an authentic way to connect with nature after sunset, especially if you’re eager to see native animals in their natural environment with some technological help.
While it’s not designed as a high-adventure activity, its charm lies in the peaceful, educational, and visually captivating moments. For those wanting an evening out that’s both fun and enlightening—without breaking the bank—this tour offers solid value. Just come prepared for outdoor conditions, and you’ll leave with new insights and memories of Australia’s elusive nighttime creatures.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, couples, and anyone curious about the natural world after dark. It’s a gentle, authentic experience that highlights the magic of the bush at night, perfect for slowing down and appreciating the quieter side of Australian wildlife.
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