Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles kangaroo, koala and chocolate tour

Travelers looking for an affordable, full-day adventure from Melbourne will find this Great Ocean Road tour offers a blend of spectacular scenery, native wildlife, and local treats. It’s a popular choice, especially for those short on time but eager to see some of Australia’s most iconic coastal sights. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 250 reviews, it’s clear many travelers appreciate the value and authenticity this tour provides.

Two things we really like about this experience are its well-organized stops at renowned landmarks like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, and the opportunity to spot native wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas in the wild—a rare treat for travelers. As with any group tour, a possible downside is the long drive (around 12 hours) which might feel a bit exhausting if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each stop. Still, this tour suits travelers eager to cover a lot of ground on a budget, especially those interested in scenery, wildlife, and local food.

Key Points

• Value for money: At approximately $57, this tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing and wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see kangaroos and koalas, but note they are wild animals, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
• Rich itinerary: Stops include the famous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Apollo Bay, and the Memorial Arch.
• Flexible food options: While lunch is on your own in Apollo Bay, the tour stops at a chocolate shop and offers bottled water.
• Guide quality varies: Many reviews praise knowledgeable, friendly guides, while some mention inconsistent engagement.
• Travel logistics: Round-trip transport from Melbourne and selected hotels simplifies planning, but be prepared for a full day’s journey.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins early, with pickups from central Melbourne and a stop at BP Southbound Geelong Bypass around 8:15-8:30 am. This makes it easy for travelers staying downtown or near the city center. The journey is around 500 km, so expect a full day of travel—most trips conclude between 7 pm and 9 pm, depending on traffic and the day’s pace. The small group size, limited to 45 travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from guides.

The Itinerary, Step by Step

First Stop: Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
A sweet way to kick off the day—here, you can sample chocolates, enjoy a hot chocolate, or pick up a few treats for later. Many reviews highlight this as a delightful start. It’s a 30-minute stop with free admission, giving travelers a chance to stretch and indulge before the scenic drive continues.

Second Stop: Anglesea Golf Club
This spot isn’t just about golf; it’s a chance to see Australian native kangaroos grazing freely. We loved the way guides often go looking for these iconic animals, making wildlife viewing more than just a possibility—it feels like a mini adventure. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and is also free to explore.

Third Stop: Memorial Arch at Eastern View
This historic monument honors the 3,000 workers who built the Great Ocean Road. It’s a quick but meaningful photo opportunity, often praised for its significance and photo-worthy views. Expect about 15 minutes here, included in your tour.

Lunch in Apollo Bay
A highlight for many, Apollo Bay offers a chance to try local seafood and diverse cuisines. The town itself is charming, with options to suit various dietary needs. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving ample time to explore, eat, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Wildlife Viewing Along the Road
Between Apollo Bay and the 12 Apostles, guides often make brief stops to look for koalas and kangaroos—not guaranteed, but many travelers have enjoyed seeing them in the wild based on reviews. The sightings depend on timing and luck, but the guides put effort into seeking out these animals, which adds a special touch to the journey.

The Twelve Apostles
The centerpiece of the tour, these limestone stacks emerge dramatically from the ocean. Visitors typically spend about 45 minutes here—enough time to walk around, take photos, and marvel at these natural sculptures. Many reviews commend the clarity of the guide’s explanations, making the experience more meaningful.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers universally praise the knowledgeable guides, with some emphasizing their ability to share interesting facts and anecdotes. For instance, “Neil was highly professional and cooperative,” and “Richard, the guide, kept us engaged with stories and even singing,” are common sentiments.

Some travelers mention that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, which is important to keep in mind. Several reviews clarify that animals like koalas and kangaroos are wild, and sightings cannot be guaranteed, but guides make efforts to find them.

Comfort and Transportation

The bus is air-conditioned, with bottled water provided, which is a thoughtful touch on such a long day. Group sizes are manageable, making the experience less cumbersome than large coach tours. The journey’s length can be tiring, but most travelers find the stops well-paced and the scenery captivating enough to warrant the long hours.

Value and Price

At just under $60, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the inclusivity of most major stops, the guide’s expertise, and the convenience of round-trip transport. It’s a cost-effective way to see some of Australia’s most famous coastal sights without having to rent a car or plan multiple days.

Notable Downsides

While many reviews sing praises, there are some concerns worth noting. A few travelers found the schedule tight, with short stop durations at key attractions like the Twelve Apostles. Others felt the wildlife sightings were not always guaranteed, which is natural with free-ranging animals. Plus, a minority experienced disorganization or unenthusiastic guides, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers, families, or those short on time but eager to see the highlights of the coast. It suits people who are comfortable with a full day of travel and don’t mind the possibility of brief stops. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, even if sightings are not guaranteed every time.

If you’re looking for luxurious, in-depth exploration or more flexible stops, you might prefer a private or multi-day tour. But if you want a well-organized, value-packed experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

This Great Ocean Road tour balances affordability, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters in a way that appeals to many travelers. The stops at the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Apollo Bay offer memorable moments, while the guided commentary adds context and entertainment. The chance to see kangaroos and koalas in the wild elevates it beyond just a sightseeing trip, making it a true taste of Australian nature.

Most reviews highlight the value for money and the expertise of the guides, with many saying they would do it again or recommend it to friends. Yes, the schedule is long, and wildlife sightings depend on luck, but the overall experience remains a solid choice for those seeking a comprehensive day out from Melbourne.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour pickup is around 8:15-8:30 am from central Melbourne and selected hotels. Be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is on your own in Apollo Bay. The town offers a variety of options, and the stop lasts about 45 minutes.

Can I see koalas and kangaroos?
Wild animals are unpredictable, but guides make an effort to find them at specific locations like Anglesea Golf Club and near the 12 Apostles. Sightings are not guaranteed but are often enjoyed.

What about wildlife viewing stops—are they guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on animal behavior, weather, and luck. Guides will do their best to seek out animals, but there are no guarantees.

How long does the tour last?
Most trips run about 12 hours, ending around 7-9 pm, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water are included. Lunch and personal expenses are not.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Bringing snacks or additional drinks is fine, just keep everything wrapped.

Is this a suitable tour for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, but keep in mind the long hours and that wildlife sightings are based on nature.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, well-organized way to tick off many of Australia’s coastal highlights. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to see famous sights without fuss, enjoy a bit of wildlife, and experience Australia’s natural beauty—all at a price that won’t break the bank.