Planning a day in Burnie, Tasmania, and wondering what kind of adventures await? This Wings Wildlife Park and Scenic Tour promises an up-close encounter with Tasmania’s unique animals, stunning coastal views, and charming seaside towns—all with a friendly local guide. Based on glowing reviews and detailed tour info, we’ll break down what makes this experience stand out, the value it offers, and what you should keep in mind before booking.
What we love about this tour? First, the focus on Tasmanian wildlife, especially the chance to interact with kangaroos and see the famous big penguin. Second, the personalized, small-group setting—with a maximum of 6 travelers—means you get plenty of attention and flexibility. Third, the insider knowledge shared by guides like Sue, who keeps the experience fun and informative.
A potential consideration? The tour involves around 6 hours of activity, which can be a lot if you prefer relaxed, less structured days. Also, the timing is sometimes adjusted for cruise ship schedules, so it’s best to confirm your departure time if you’re on a tight cruise itinerary.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate wildlife, scenic drives, and small-group tours. It’s especially ideal for those wanting a mix of animal encounters and coastal exploration without heavy walking or complicated logistics.
Key Points
- Small Group Comfort: Tours are limited to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
- Wildlife Encounters: Get close to kangaroos, view Tasmania animals, and enjoy an interactive experience.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy beautiful views en route to Gunns Plains and Wings Wildlife Park.
- Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Sue make the experience educational and fun.
- Flexible Timing: Tour adjustments for cruise ship schedules help coordinate land excursions smoothly.
- Value for Money: With included admission and morning tea, the experience balances cost and quality well.
An In-Depth Look at the Wings Wildlife Park and Scenic Tour
Looking for more options in Burnie? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What’s Included and How Does It Add Value?
Starting at $151.24 per person, the tour offers a half-day adventure packed with wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and seaside charm. Included in the price are admission to Wings Wildlife Park and a delicious morning tea, giving you an authentic taste of local hospitality and Tasmania’s rich fauna. The small group size, capped at 6, means you get more personalized interaction—something that many travelers find makes a big difference when exploring nature and wildlife.
The Itinerary Explained
Stop 1: Wings Wildlife Park (3 hours)
The core of this experience is the Wildlife Park, home to Tasmania’s diverse animals like marsupials, birds, and farm animals. Reviewers describe the kangaroo encounter as “WONDERFUL” and highlight the opportunity to feed and get up close—something that’s often a highlight among visitors. One guest noted, “The kangaroo experience was the highlight of the tour,” emphasizing just how memorable this part is. The park’s animals are typical of Tasmania’s fauna, providing an educational and fun introduction to the region’s biodiversity.
Stop 2: Penguin in Penguin (45 minutes)
Following the wildlife park, the tour takes you to the seaside town of Penguin, which is not just a clever name but a charming locale. Here, you’ll get a chance to take photos with Tasmania’s famous big penguin, a fun photo opportunity that everyone seems to love. The town itself offers plenty of scenic views and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed walk. Visitors recommend stopping by the visitor information centre to pick up a souvenir and soak in the peaceful coastal vibes.
Stop 3: Gunns Plains (1 hour)
The scenic drive to Gunns Plains is described as “beautiful” by reviewers, with some going as far as calling it “stunning.” It’s an excellent chance to see some of Tasmania’s unspoiled countryside and listen to stories from your guide about the region’s history and landscape. Though the review mentions the drive, it’s clear that it’s more than just transportation—it’s part of the experience, giving you a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty.
The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size
The tour departs at 9:00 am from Burnie, with the timing adjusted if you’re a cruise ship passenger. If arriving by cruise, you’ll need to take the free shuttle bus to the meeting point at Burnie. This flexibility helps ensure you don’t miss out due to cruise schedules, a common concern for travelers relying on port excursions.
The maximum group size of 6 enhances the experience by allowing more interaction with your guide and less time waiting for others. The tour’s duration of about 6 hours balances a comprehensive look at the region without feeling rushed.
The transport is a minivan, which makes for a comfortable ride through scenic routes. One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Sue, was very accommodating, even customizing some stops to suit personal interests—a big plus for travelers seeking a tailored experience.
Comfort and Accessibility
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level as the tour involves a moderate amount of walking at the wildlife park and town explorations. Service animals are allowed, adding accessibility for those with needs. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.
The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying
Guests consistently praise the guide, especially mentioning Sue for her enthusiasm, knowledge, and flexibility. Marilyn called the kangaroo experience “the highlight,” and another guest appreciated the personal attention during their private tour.
Several reviews highlight the scenic beauty of Penguin and Gunns Plains, with visitors remarking on how picturesque and peaceful these spots are. One reviewer noted that even with limited time, the guide managed to show “some of Tasmania’s beauty,” indicating how well-organized and informative the day is.
Wildlife Interactions
Close encounters with kangaroos are repeatedly mentioned as a major highlight, with visitors able to feed the animals and enjoy up-close views. This hands-on aspect makes the wildlife park a memorable part of the trip, setting it apart from typical zoo visits.
Scenic and Cultural Highlights
The coastal town of Penguin isn’t just a quick stop; reviewers appreciate its scenic views and local flavor, including a popular bakery that’s busy with visitors. The drive through back roads to Gunns Plains is described as beautiful, giving travelers a glimpse of Tasmania’s rugged natural charm.
Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?
At $151.24 per person, the tour is priced competitively given the inclusions—admission to Wings Wildlife Park, morning tea, and personalized attention. When you consider the small-group setting, the interactive wildlife experiences, and the scenic coastal stops, many find the price justified.
Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see animals and scenery they wouldn’t easily access on their own. The tour’s flexibility for cruise schedules and option to customize stops** adds to the overall value.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for animal lovers, especially those interested in Tasmanian wildlife. It’s also great for travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed tour that combines nature, scenery, and local culture. The small-group setting makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate experience.
If you’re on a cruise, the tour’s scheduling adjustments mean it can fit into your port day without hassle—just be sure to confirm your ship’s arrival and departure times.
Final Thoughts
The Wings Wildlife Park and Scenic Tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and seaside charm—all led by passionate, knowledgeable guides like Sue. It’s clear from reviews that the small group size and personal touches make this trip stand out, especially for those eager to see Tasmania’s iconic animals up close.
While the tour involves a bit of walking and a full morning of activity, the variety of sights, the friendly atmosphere, and the well-organized nature make it a solid choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Tasmania’s coast and wildlife.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention, interactive wildlife experiences, and scenic coastal views. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your port day, especially if you love animals and beautiful scenery.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours, including stops at Wings Wildlife Park, Penguin, and Gunns Plains.
What is included in the price?
Admission to Wings Wildlife Park and a morning tea are included. The tour is priced at $151.24 per person.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 7 years old, and the tour involves moderate walking, making it suitable for children who can handle that.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities. Since it involves some outdoor exploration, layers are recommended.
Can cruise ship passengers join this tour?
Absolutely, with scheduled adjustments for cruise timings. Just catch the free shuttle bus to Burnie’s stop 1.
How many people are in my tour group?
A maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
Is it possible to customize the stops?
Guides like Sue have been known to be flexible and accommodating, adjusting stops based on guest interests.
In the end, if you’re looking for an authentic, charming glimpse of Tasmania’s wildlife and coast, this tour delivers. It’s a well-rounded, friendly, and value-packed way to experience Burnie’s natural beauty and animal life—something you’ll remember long after your trip ends.