Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney

Planning a trip to Sydney and looking for a way to escape the city buzz? This Wildlife, Waterfalls, and Wine Day Tour offers an engaging 11-hour journey into some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes, with plenty of unique animal encounters and local flavors. While it’s a full day that involves quite a bit of driving, the diversity of experiences makes it well worth your time—especially if you appreciate intimate wildlife moments, scenic hikes, and boutique wines.

Among the highlights are the chance to cuddle with koalas before the crowds arrive at Symbio Wildlife Park, breathtaking waterfalls in Morton National Park, and scenic coastal views from Bald Hill Lookout. What really makes this tour shine are the small-group size of just 11 travelers, which ensures a more personal, relaxed atmosphere, and the knowledgeable guides who elevate each stop with stories and insights.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration—11 hours is a long day, so it’s best suited to those who enjoy spending time on the move and don’t mind some bus travel. If you’re after a relaxed, varied experience that blends wildlife, nature, and wine, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly popular among those seeking authentic encounters and expert guiding without the crowds of larger tours.

Key Points

• Intimate group size enhances the personal feel and flexibility of the tour
• Up-close wildlife encounters at Symbio Wildlife Park, including early access with koalas
• Spectacular waterfalls in Morton National Park, with easy trails and amazing lookout points
• Breathtaking coastal views from Bald Hill Lookout and Sea Cliff Bridge
• Boutique wine tasting at a charming Bowral winery with local flavors
• Long day, full of variety—ideal for active travelers and wildlife lovers

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay, a central and accessible location. From there, a comfortable minibus whisks you out of the city, traveling along the scenic beaches of Botany Bay and through the Royal National Park. The small-group size of up to 11 travelers means you’re not just another face in a crowd, but part of a more relaxed and flexible journey.

Bald Hill Lookout: Coastal Vistas and Hang Gliders

Your first stop is Bald Hill Lookout, a popular launch site for hang gliders. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of the Illawarra coastline and the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. According to reviews, this spot can be quite lively with people watching and a great photo op—especially for those who enjoy dramatic coastal scenery. It’s a brief stop, but it sets the tone for the day with stunning vistas and a fresh ocean breeze.

Symbio Wildlife Park: Personal Encounters with Koalas and Kangaroos

Next, you’ll visit Symbio Wildlife Park, a family-run facility dedicated to koala conservation. What makes this stop stand out is the early access—many visitors mention it’s a chance to interact with animals before the crowds arrive. Reviewers highlight the personalized experience of petting and feeding koalas, wallabies, and kangaroos, which many say is a highlight of their trip.

One guest notes, “Getting into the park before it opened to the public was probably my highlight,” emphasizing how this early access offers a more intimate setting. The park’s focus on animal care and conservation also reassures visitors that these encounters are handled ethically and thoughtfully. Expect knowledgeable guides like Steve and Rowan, who share interesting facts about the animals and their environment.

Scenic Drive and Waterfall Hike in Morton National Park

After the wildlife encounter, your journey continues into Morton National Park. Here, the highlight is a short, easy hike that leads to a waterfall lookout. Reviewers describe it as a “beautiful waterfall,” with some mentioning the stairs involved, so sturdy shoes are advised.

The waterfall view is a peaceful spot, perfect for photos and appreciating nature’s raw power. The hike isn’t strenuous, but it offers a chance to stretch your legs and connect with nature. Guests mention the fresh air and lush surroundings make this a refreshing break from city life.

Seaside Lunch and Boutique Wine Tasting

Midday brings a seaside lunch, often enjoyed in a quiet setting with views of the ocean. While the details vary, it’s generally described as fresh, simple, and satisfying—perfect reset before the afternoon activities.

The wine tasting occurs at a boutique winery in Bowral, a charming town known for its cool climate wines. Guests consistently praise the local wines paired with crackers, cheese, and dried fruit, describing the experience as relaxed and informative. One reviewer notes that they appreciated the personalized attention and the chance to taste multiple wines in a peaceful setting.

Scenic Coastal Views and Wild Animal Sightings on Return

On the way back to Sydney, the guide often pulls over to show visitors wild kangaroos grazing, as well as local birdlife like cockatoos and rosellas. These spontaneous moments are frequently mentioned as highlights, adding an authentic touch to the day.

The Guides: Knowledge and Personal Touch

Multiple reviews sing praises about the guides, with names like Steve, Rowan, Tony, and Jackie mentioned. Guests appreciate their vast knowledge, friendly demeanor, and willingness to share stories—making the journey enjoyable and educational. One review mentions how Steve’s narration added depth to the experience, especially during the scenic drives and nature walks.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing at $254.25 per person might seem steep, but considering the full day filled with wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, a seaside lunch, and wine tastings, many find it offers good value. The inclusion of early access at Symbio Wildlife Park and the small group size makes the experience more personal and less rushed.

The 11-hour duration means you should be prepared for a full day out, including some bus travel. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as you’ll be walking about a kilometer at times and climbing approximately 50 steps during the waterfall visit. Packing essentials like closed shoes, sunscreen, hats, and water bottles is recommended, especially on hot days.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy small group tours for a more personalized touch. It’s perfect for those keen to see Australian animals up close, enjoy scenic landscapes, and indulge in local wines without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re looking for a diverse, active day that provides insights into Australia’s natural beauty and culture, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Wildlife, Waterfalls, and Wine tour offers a well-rounded taste of some of Sydney’s most captivating natural sights, combined with authentic animal encounters and local flavors. The small-group size creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want a more personal experience. The guide’s local knowledge and passion shine through, making each stop more meaningful.

While it’s a long day, the variety of activities—wildlife, hiking, scenic vistas, and wine—keeps interest high. It’s especially suited for active travelers, animal lovers, and anyone eager to explore beyond Sydney’s city limits without feeling rushed.

You’ll leave with great memories of cuddling koalas, stunning waterfalls, and tasting boutique wines—plus a little more insight into Australia’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first trip or a repeat visit, this tour delivers a memorable, authentic slice of what the region has to offer.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, wildlife encounters (like early access to Symbio Wildlife Park), scenic drives, a seaside lunch, and boutique wine tasting.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The physical activity involved is moderate, with walking and some stairs.

What should I bring?
Bring closed shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and optional items like a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim. Warm clothing is recommended from May to October.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 11 travelers, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Are the wildlife encounters ethical?
Yes, the wildlife park is dedicated to conservation, and the encounters are carefully managed to ensure animal welfare.

Is there any free time during the day?
Most of the day is structured with stops for wildlife, hikes, and tastings, but the guides are attentive to group interests and may include some flexible moments.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many guests mention the early access to Symbio Wildlife Park and the chance to interact with koalas and kangaroos before the crowds arrive, as well as the scenic waterfall views and boutique wine tasting.

This comprehensive tour balances adventure, wildlife, and relaxation, making it a fantastic way to see a side of Australia that many visitors miss—authentic, scenic, and full of surprises.