Tasmania: Wilderness and Wildlife Guided 6-Day Tour

Exploring Tasmania in six days through a guided tour promises a whirlwind of awe-inspiring landscapes, captivating wildlife, and authentic local encounters. While I haven’t personally been on this exact journey, the detailed itineraries and glowing reviews paint a picture of a truly memorable experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk along some of Tasmania’s most iconic beaches like Freycinet and the Bay of Fires. Second, exploring the rugged West Coast’s remote wilderness and alpine mountains offers a sense of adventure few other tours can match. Third, the opportunity to learn about Tasmania’s unique animals—like devils, wombats, and wallabies—straight from passionate guides truly enriches the trip.

One potential consideration is the active nature of the tour; with numerous short walks and some challenging hikes, it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. It’s certainly not a trip for someone seeking a relaxed, sit-back vacation.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives, especially if you’re eager to experience Tasmania’s best natural highlights in a well-organized, guided format.

Comprehensive Route: Covers Tasmania’s east and west coasts, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Active but Accessible: Most walks are easy to moderate, suitable for good mobility and fitness.
Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see devils, wombats, wallabies, and penguins in their natural habitat.
Stunning Landscapes: Beaches, waterfalls, alpine lakes, mountains, and lush rainforests.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides who enhance the experience with local insights.
Value for Money: Includes accommodation, park entrance fees, and wildlife sanctuary visits, making it convenient and cost-effective.

Day 1: From Hobart to Strahan via Mount Field National Park

This opening day sets the tone with a mix of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and mountain scenery. The journey begins in Hobart, heading northwest into Tasmania’s Western Wilds. A highlight is walking among some of the world’s tallest trees at Mount Field National Park, where the famous Russell Falls make a perfect photo stop. The park’s path is easy, with a 25-minute walk suitable for most visitors, and delivers a stunning cascade framed by lush greenery.

Next, you’ll explore Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. Its tranquility is mesmerizing, and it’s a great place to absorb Tasmania’s pristine wilderness. The drive through Franklin-Gordon National Park offers incredible views of rainforest and mountain ranges, with the old mining town of Queenstown providing a glimpse into Tasmania’s industrial past before arriving in the charming waterside town of Strahan.

Review Insight: Many travelers appreciate the diversity of scenery packed into Day 1, noting that the combination of rainforest, waterfalls, and mountain views makes for a well-rounded start.

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Day 2: Wilderness of the West Coast

This day dives into the raw beauty of Tasmania’s untouched West Coast. The Henty Sand Dunes are a standout—gigantic, eerily beautiful, and perfect for some fun photo moments. Alternatively, a guided walk through ancient rainforest offers a peaceful contrast, showcasing Tasmania’s lush, untouched flora.

An optional Gordon River cruise at an additional cost gives you an insight into the region’s history and pristine waters. The day wraps up with a visit to Ocean Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear air and vast, empty sands—an ideal spot to breathe deeply and appreciate the wild landscape.

Review Insight: Guests rave about the unspoiled wilderness and the serenity of Ocean Beach, with one saying, “The untouched wilderness of Tasmanias West Coast is today’s playground.”

Day 3: Cradle Mountain – Alpine Wonders

Cradle Mountain National Park is a highlight for many. The tour offers a range of hikes— from the Dove Lake circuit, a 6km, 2-3 hour walk with stunning mountain reflections, to the more challenging climb to Marions Lookout. Many reviewers mention the excellent opportunities to spot wombats at Ronny Creek, which feels like a wildlife lover’s jackpot.

The landscape here is dramatic—glacial-carved mountains, serene lakes, and lush alpine forests. The day concludes with a scenic drive through Sheffield, famous for its murals, before arriving in Launceston.

Review Insight: Guests appreciate the flexibility of walks suited for different fitness levels and describe Cradle Mountain as “incredible,” noting that the scenery is like nowhere else in Australia.

Day 4: East Coast and Bicheno

Traveling east, you’ll visit the Cataract Gorge in Launceston, a natural sandstone formation that’s perfect for spotting local wallabies. Then it’s off to the picturesque fishing village of St Helens for lunch, followed by a walk along the Bay of Fires—famous for its white sands and striking orange lichen-covered rocks.

In Bicheno, you’ll find a charming seaside village where you might see penguins emerging from the sea at dusk—a magical moment for wildlife enthusiasts.

Review Insight: Reviewers mention the sheer beauty of the Bay of Fires and the chance to spot penguins as personal highlights, with one traveler sharing, “Penguins emerging from the sea was a magical moment.”

Day 5: Freycinet National Park

Undoubtedly Tasmania’s most famous coastal park, Freycinet offers a mix of beaches, forests, and panoramic lookouts. You’ll visit the Hazards mountain range, where you can either enjoy a leisurely walk to Honeymoon Bay or challenge yourself with a summit climb of Mt Amos.

Most opt for the walk to Wineglass Bay, often called one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with its curved white sands. From Cape Tourville, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the ocean, mountains, and the pink granite peaks.

Review Insight: Many describe Freycinet as jaw-dropping beautiful, with one saying, “You’ll love the views from Cape Tourville and the white sands of Wineglass Bay.”

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Day 6: Wildlife and Scenic Return to Hobart

The final day combines wildlife and scenic landscapes. Visiting Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary allows close encounters with Tasmanian devils, wombats, quolls, and kangaroos. Many reviewers highlight the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and the guides’ passion.

Walking through the historic village of Richmond offers a peek into Tasmania’s colonial past, with its iconic bridge and charming streets. The tour concludes at Wellington Park, known locally as kunanyi, with spectacular lookout points and diverse ecosystems—from fern glades to rocky outcrops.

Review Insight: Guests mention the wildlife sanctuary as a “highlight,” appreciating the opportunity to see animals up close and learn about conservation efforts.

This tour is designed to balance active exploration with relaxing scenic drives, making sure you see Tasmania’s highlights without feeling rushed. The accommodation options vary from hostels to motels, catering to different budgets—most with private rooms and en suite options.

Transport is comfortable, with a trailer for luggage, and group sizes are small enough to foster camaraderie without feeling crowded. The itinerary’s walk levels are mostly easy to moderate, making it accessible for most travelers in good health.

One of the most praised aspects from reviews is the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Guides like Brendan, Hayden, and Justin are noted for their ability to share insights with patience and humor, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The inclusion of park entrance fees and the wildlife sanctuary entry makes this a hassle-free, value-packed option, especially considering the diversity of locations visited and the quality of accommodation.

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews consistently mention the tour as offering excellent value for money. Given that it includes accommodation, national park fees, and a wildlife sanctuary visit, it simplifies planning and ensures you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs.

Travelers should consider that the tour is an active, outdoor-focused experience—perfect for those who enjoy walking and exploring. If you’re after a leisurely holiday with minimal physical activity, this might not be your best fit.

This adventure suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and active travelers eager to see Tasmania through a curated, guided lens. It’s particularly well-suited for those comfortable with short walks and moderate hikes, ready for diverse scenery—from beaches and rainforests to alpine landscapes.

Families with children over 8 years old who enjoy outdoor activities will also find it rewarding, but those with mobility issues or back problems might want to consider other options.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized journey that balances adventure with comfort, this tour offers tremendous value and authentic Tasmanian experiences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 8 years old, especially those comfortable with active walks and outdoor environments.

What kind of accommodation is included?
Guests can choose between hostels or motels, with options for private rooms or shared dorms, all with shared bathrooms.

How much luggage can I bring?
You can bring up to 20kg of luggage, which is stored in a trailer during travel days.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to plan for meals and snacks during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
Most walks are easy to moderate; however, those with mobility issues should evaluate the specific walk requirements before booking.

Can I see wildlife like Tasmanian devils?
Yes, the tour visits Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll see devils, wombats, and other native animals.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified here, Tasmania’s climate varies, but most travelers find spring and summer ideal for outdoor activities.

Is the tour highly customizable?
The itinerary is fixed, but there are optional activities like the Gordon River cruise or climbing Mt Amos.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most walks are classified as easy or moderate, suitable for most people with good mobility and fitness.

Will I have free time?
The schedule is packed but balanced with scenic drives and free time at key locations, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere.

In essence, this Tasmania tour offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activity—perfect for travelers wanting a genuine taste of Tasmania’s wild side.