Experience the Wild Side of Canberra: A Detailed Review of the Nature Tour with Lunch
If you’re looking to explore beyond Canberra’s well-known political and cultural sights, this Nature Tour with Lunch offers a genuine glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. Operated by Sapphire Nature Tours, this 7-hour adventure is designed for travelers eager to see native wildlife, walk through ancient forests, and learn about the area’s unique ecology—all with the comfort of a small group.
What we love about this experience is how it balances nature immersion with practical comfort. First, the inclusion of lunch at a local café keeps the day relaxed and provides a chance to enjoy authentic regional flavors. Second, the expert guidance of Sam Nerrie ensures you’ll not only see the sights but also gain insights into the flora and fauna that make Canberra’s bushland special.
One consideration? The tour involves up to 6 km of walking, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable on their feet. If you’re someone who prefers car rides with minimal walking, this might not be ideal. However, for those eager to experience native wildlife in their natural habitats, this tour hits the mark.
This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a meaningful, small-group adventure into Australia’s bushland. It’s especially well-suited for travelers wanting to combine a scenic day with educational insights and a taste of local cuisine.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic wildlife encounters in native reserves, with guaranteed kangaroo sightings.
- Walks through ancient forests of Blakely’s gum trees and other native flora.
- Visit to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Centre provides a fascinating contrast to natural sights.
- Small group setting (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.
- Included lunch and drinks at a local café make the day more enjoyable without extra costs.
- Up to 6 km of walking means it’s active but manageable for most physically able travelers.
A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary
The tour starts with convenient pickups from either the Canberra Centre or Canberra Airport, making it accessible whether you’re arriving by land or air. From there, your guide, Sam Nerrie, will whisk you away into some of Canberra’s lesser-known natural spots, offering a good mix of scenic views and wildlife spotting.
The initial drive, about 30 minutes, allows you to settle in and get a sense of the landscape. The first stop includes a photo opportunity or sightseeing—a perfect chance to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings. This part of the day sets the tone for the adventure ahead: scenic, relaxed, and filled with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Next, the group heads to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the heart of the activity. Here, you’ll spend approximately three hours exploring, with plenty of time for walking, wildlife viewing, and soaking in the natural beauty. The reserve is well-regarded for its native animals, and Kangaroos are guaranteed sightings—a big plus for most visitors.
During this part of the day, you might see Eastern Water Dragons, Emus, Swamp Wallabies, Gang Gang Cockatoos, Eastern Rosellas, Superb Parrots, and Kookaburras. The reserve’s environment offers a variety of habitats, making it a good chance to see different species. The tour mentions the possibility of encountering Echidnas and Potoroo, rare but exciting sightings for wildlife fans.
After a hearty lunch and some downtime, you’ll visit Red Hill and Mulligan’s Flat Woodlands for more sightseeing and guided exploration. These areas provide additional opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching, with views over native grasses and flowering plants—especially vibrant if you’re visiting during October or November.
On the return journey, a visit to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Centre offers an unusual but fascinating contrast to the natural focus of the day. This site highlights Australia’s role in space exploration, providing tech and science insights that may surprise those expecting only wildlife.
The tour concludes with drop-offs at your initial pickup locations—either the Canberra Centre or Canberra Airport—making it easy to continue your travels.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The tour’s small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized and relaxed experience. You won’t be part of a large crowd, which means more opportunities to ask questions, get closer to wildlife, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
The inclusion of entry fees to all parks and reserves adds value, as many similar tours charge extra for these access points. Plus, the lunch at a local café—with a non-alcoholic drink—keeps the experience comfortable and authentic. It’s a simple touch that elevates the day from a mere sightseeing drive to a genuine immersion into local life.
The tour is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on customer feedback, with particular praise for Sam’s knowledgeable guidance and the well-paced itinerary. Some reviews highlight how the tour exceeded expectations, especially for wildlife sightings and the scenic drives.
Practical Details and Tips
The total walking distance is up to 6 km, which is manageable for most active travelers, but it’s worth noting if you have mobility restrictions. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking involved.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes—preferably closed-toe walking shoes—and bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather. The tour doesn’t allow high heels, sandals, flip-flops, or anything that might compromise safety or comfort.
The duration of the tour is about 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning by early afternoon. It includes pickup within an 8 km radius of Canberra’s city center, making it accessible for most travelers staying in or near the city.
More Great Tours NearbyA Worthwhile Investment for Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts
Considering the included park entries, expert guide, small group size, and the variety of experiences—from ancient forests to space tech—the value for this tour is quite good. It’s especially attractive for those looking to get a deeper understanding of Canberra’s natural environment without the hassle of planning multiple visits or transport.
The experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy active outdoor adventures, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate nature but prefer a manageable pace, this tour fits perfectly. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children, but for most active adults and older kids, it hits the sweet spot.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers eager for guaranteed kangaroo sightings, nature enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive exploration of Canberra’s reserves, and curious travelers interested in learning about the region’s flora, fauna, and even space exploration. If you’re seeking a small-group, well-organized day into Australia’s bushland, this experience delivers.
Those with a sense of adventure and a need for a relaxed, engaging outdoor day will find it especially rewarding. And if you’re visiting Canberra and want to combine scenery, wildlife, and a taste of local life—all in one day—this tour is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since some walking is involved, plan for up to 6 km of walking, so be prepared accordingly.
Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch and a non-alcoholic drink at a local café, making the day easier and more enjoyable without extra costs.
Can I see kangaroos and other wildlife?
Yes, kangaroo sightings are guaranteed, and you may see other species like emus, wallabies, cockatoos, parrots, and possibly echidnas and potoroos.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 or travelers with mobility issues, mainly due to the walking involved and the nature of outdoor exploration.
What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and the opportunity for better wildlife viewing and interaction.
How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.
Final Thoughts
This Canberra: Nature Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. It’s a day well spent for those wanting to see Australia’s bushland through the eyes of an expert guide, enjoy a leisurely walk, and learn about the region’s ecology. The inclusion of a visit to the space communication center adds a touch of science and innovation to the natural experience.
For active travelers eager for wildlife sightings, scenic landscapes, and a bit of local flavor, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments. It’s a great way to escape the city and reconnect with Australia’s wild side, all while enjoying the comforts of a small-group adventure.
In essence, if you’re after an engaging, educational, and scenic day out in Canberra’s outdoors—this tour ticks all those boxes.
You can check availability for your dates here: