Hobart: Waterfalls, Wilderness & Wildlife – Active Day Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Hobart that offers a true taste of Tasmania’s rugged beauty, this Waterfalls, Wilderness & Wildlife tour might just be your ideal choice. Designed for travelers eager to see beyond the city’s charming streets, this guided journey covers some of the most breathtaking natural sights in the region—all in one day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it combines easy access to iconic sites like Russell and Horseshoe Falls, with up-close encounters with native wildlife at Bonorong Sanctuary. Second, the guide’s insights bring a layer of understanding and connection to Tasmania’s wilderness that you simply wouldn’t get from a self-guided visit.

One possible consideration? The day involves some walking along uneven forest tracks and climbing stairs, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a more relaxed excursion. Still, for outdoor enthusiasts and those with a decent level of fitness, this trip offers exceptional value for a full day of exploration.

This tour is well-suited for nature lovers, families, and adventurous travelers eager to see Tasmania’s legendary waterfalls and wildlife in a single, well-organized day. If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to the island’s natural highlights, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining waterfalls, wildlife, and mountain views
• Includes all admission fees, so no surprises
• Knowledgeable guides provide extra context and insights
• Small groups ensure a more personal, engaging experience
• Accessible to most travelers with moderate fitness levels
• Ideal for outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts seeking authentic encounters

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour offers a thoughtful sequence of stops, each designed to showcase Tasmania’s natural diversity.

Mount Field National Park: A Natural Gem

Just 1.5 hours from Hobart, Mount Field National Park is the tour’s first stop. As one of Tasmania’s oldest parks, it’s home to lush temperate rainforests and alpine moorlands. Expect a landscape that feels both ancient and pristine, with towering trees and moss-covered undergrowth. We loved the way the guide explained the park’s ecological significance, enriching our walk through the forest.

While the park itself is free to enter, it’s the features within—like the waterfalls—that steal the show. The scenery here sets the tone for the day: wild, unspoiled, and full of surprises.

Russell Falls: Tasmania’s Iconic Waterfall

After a brief walk, you’ll arrive at Russell Falls, arguably Tasmania’s most recognizable waterfall. With its three-tiered cascade, it’s a picture-perfect spot. The easy walk along a forested track makes it accessible and enjoyable, with the sound of rushing water filling the air.

Reviewers have noted how this walk is both scenic and manageable—”an easy and enjoyable walk among mixed forest and temper”—making it perfect for most visitors. The falls are stunning in all weather, and many say it’s even more impressive in person than in photos.

Horseshoe Falls: A Majestic Close-Up

Just a short climb beyond Russell Falls, you’ll find Horseshoe Falls, a striking, horseshoe-shaped cascade. Some visitors consider it even more beautiful than Russell Falls—“snuggled in the forest,” it offers a more dramatic spectacle. The ascent involves a manageable set of stairs, but be prepared for a bit of a workout. The reward? A chance to see one of Tasmania’s most impressive waterfalls up close, in a setting that feels wonderfully untouched.

Tall Trees Walk: Giants of the Forest

The highlight for many is the Tall Trees Walk along the Three Falls Circuit. Here, you’ll walk beneath Swamp Gums that soar around 80 meters high—some of the tallest flowering plants in the world. This part of the tour is a real treat for anyone interested in natural wonders and forest ecology.

The guide’s commentary adds context, explaining how these giants have thrived for centuries. The walk itself offers a sense of awe and connection to Tasmania’s ancient forests. Be ready for some moderate hiking—the track is well-maintained but involves walking through uneven terrain.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Meet Tasmania’s Unique Animals

Next, a 2.5-hour visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary provides a change of pace. Here, you’ll see Tasmanian devils, wombats, and echidnas—and learn about conservation efforts that are vital for these species. Many reviews praise the sanctuary staff for their expertise and passion, making the wildlife encounter both educational and memorable.

While the animals can be shy, visitors appreciate the chance to see and learn about creatures that are hard to spot in the wild. The tour’s inclusion of this stop adds a meaningful layer of understanding about Tasmania’s rare fauna.

Mount Wellington: The Mountain View Finale

To cap off your day, you’ll drive about an hour to the summit of kunanyi/Mt. Wellington, standing at 1271 meters. The panoramic views across southern Tasmania are breathtaking. You’ll spend roughly 30 minutes at the top, soaking in the scenery and capturing photos of the rugged landscape below.

The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the diverse terrain that Tasmania has to offer. The summit visit is a highlight for many, providing a sense of scale and wilderness that’s hard to match.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—”Hannah was very knowledgeable”—and the efficient itinerary planning that maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed. The small group size (max 20 travelers) ensures a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

Some reviewers mention the challenging steps at the waterfalls—”The last step climb in national park is a killer”—so a reasonable level of fitness is helpful. Others note the wildlife sightings are sometimes limited, but that’s part of nature’s unpredictability, not the tour’s fault.

Most travelers find the value for the price ($132.69 per person) excellent, considering all the included activities, entrance fees, and the expertise of the guides. The experience is well-rounded: scenic walks, wildlife encounters, and mountain vistas, all packed into a single day.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour departs at 7:30 am from Hobart’s Davey Street, with the day ending back at the same spot. It’s a full 12-hour adventure, so be prepared for a long day filled with walking and sightseeing. The tour mainly targets travelers with moderate fitness levels, given the walks and stairs involved.

You’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes, some snacks or a packed lunch (the tour stops at a regional bakery en route), and a camera for all those spectacular vistas. Since the tour covers several outdoor locations, good weather is essential—if it’s canceled due to rain, they offer a different date or a full refund.

Transportation is included via a comfortable vehicle, and the small-group setting makes it more engaging than a large bus tour. All admission fees are covered, so there’s no extra expense once you’re on the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited to outdoor lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see Tasmania’s natural scenery in depth. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking, don’t mind a few stairs, and want a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s wilderness. Families with kids comfortable on forest walks will find it manageable, while travelers with a keen interest in ecology will value the guide’s insights.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day or prefer to avoid hikes, this might be a bit too active. But for those who want a full, immersive experience in Tasmania’s wild places—without the hassle of planning logistics—this tour delivers excellent value.

This Waterfalls, Wilderness & Wildlife tour from Hobart offers a well-rounded, engaging day in Tasmania’s stunning outdoors. It balances scenic hikes, wildlife encounters, and mountain vistas, all led by passionate guides who enrich every stop with stories and insights. The small group setting ensures a friendly vibe, and the inclusion of all entrance fees means you won’t be caught off guard by extra costs.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience Tasmania’s rugged beauty firsthand—whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking a meaningful adventure outside the city. The tour’s combination of carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences makes it good value for the price.

If you’re in Hobart and craving a day of fresh air, spectacular views, and encounters with iconic Australian wildlife, this trip is a solid, well-organized option that won’t disappoint.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation between stops is provided in a comfortable vehicle as part of the tour.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 20 Davey St, Hobart TAS 7000.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience runs approximately 12 hours, from 7:30 am until back in Hobart.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the cost covers all admission fees to parks and wildlife sanctuaries visited.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, snacks or a packed lunch, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers with moderate fitness levels will be comfortable, including older children, but check your family’s comfort with walking and stairs.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the tour can be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is kept small, with a maximum of 20 travelers.

Will I see wildlife during the tour?
Wildlife sightings depend on the day, but the sanctuary provides ample opportunities to see animals like devils, wombats, and echidnas.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not provided; a stop at a regional bakery allows you to purchase food to take along.

This tour offers a genuine and exciting way to experience Tasmania’s natural highlights, making it perfect for those eager for a full day of adventure and discovery.