Horse Riding, Koalas & Kangaroos – Wild Australia: Private Tour

If you’re visiting Sydney and want a full-day experience that combines iconic city sights with genuine Australian wilderness, this private tour might just be the perfect fit. Designed for those with limited time but a love for nature and authentic encounters, it offers a blend of sightseeing, wildlife, and outdoor fun — all in a comfortably private setting.

What we love about this tour: first, the personalized touch of a private guide ensures you get tailored attention and a flexible pace. Second, the variety — from the Sydney Opera House to kangaroos and koalas, to horseback riding in lush landscapes — means there’s never a dull moment.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s price, at around $662 per person, reflects the private, all-inclusive nature, which might be a stretch for some budgets. Still, many find the range of experiences and personal attention well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day that covers both city landmarks and Australia’s unique wildlife and scenery. It’s ideal if you prefer a private, customizable experience over larger group tours.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Enjoy exclusive attention from a professional guide tailored to your interests.
• All-in-One Day: Combines iconic Sydney sights, wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and outdoor activities.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes private roundtrip transportation and hotel pickup.
• Authentic Encounters: Meet koalas, kangaroos, and see Aboriginal rock art in a wildlife sanctuary and cultural sites.
• Scenic Highlights: Views of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, and remote natural landscapes.
• Value for the Price: All-day, private tour with multiple stops, professional photos, and included wildlife entry.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This private tour begins early, with a pickup from your Sydney accommodation, setting a tone of personalized service that continues throughout the day. The flexibility of a private guide means you can focus more on what interests you, whether it’s capturing the best photos of Sydney’s skyline or spending extra time with wildlife.

Sydney Landmarks with a Personal Touch

Your day kicks off with a visit to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, an iconic viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the Sydney Harbour. Perched on a sandstone ledge crafted by convicts in 1810, this spot provides a perfect introduction to the city’s scenic charm. We’ve read comments from travelers like Donna, who appreciated the “fantastic tour” and especially the professional photos taken at this site.

Next, you’ll step into the world-famous Sydney Opera House. It’s more than just a photo op; it’s an architectural marvel that symbolizes Sydney. The guide captures your best angles, leaving you with a memorable image against this world-renowned backdrop — something many visitors cherish, as Emily noted, “a stunning professional photograph.”

Crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a highlight that offers an exhilarating moment of transition from city to nature, and it’s especially satisfying knowing you don’t need to navigate the traffic or public transport.

Venturing Outside the City

The journey continues to Berowra Waters, where a bushwalk reveals a different side of Sydney. This part of the tour, guided by an expert, explores Berowra Valley National Park with walks through lush bushland and Aboriginal carvings, offering a glimpse into the indigenous culture and the area’s natural beauty. The 45-minute visit allows for quiet appreciation of flora and fauna, with a chance to see well-preserved rock art.

The Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary is a true highlight, especially for nature lovers. Encounter koalas, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and other native creatures in a setting designed to protect and showcase Australia’s diverse wildlife. The included entry makes this a cost-effective stop, and visitors have praised the sanctuary for its inspiring and authentic experience. One reviewer shared that they loved petting animals and having photos taken, a testament to the sanctuary’s hands-on approach.

Outdoors, Horseback Riding, and Unique Wildlife

Glenworth Valley is where the tour turns more adventurous. Here, you get to horseback ride through pristine landscapes, rainforests, and native bushland for approximately two hours. The guided ride offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with Australia’s landscape in a way few other activities allow. Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, the tour caters to all levels, making it accessible for most.

Another captivating stop is Warrah Lookout, where you witness an impressive colony of flying foxes or fruit bats. Watching thousands of these creatures in flight is a sight that sticks with many visitors — a reminder of the fascinating and complex ecosystems Australia hosts.

Coastal Beauty and Cultural Sites

On the afternoon leg, the tour takes you to Wamberal Beach and Terrigal, where the scenery shifts to coastal beauty. You might enjoy relaxing on the golden sands, with optional whale watching, or simply soaking in the vibrant seaside vibe.

Further cultural insights come from a visit to the Bulgandry Aboriginal Engraving Site. Here, ancient rock art and engravings reveal a sacred landscape. Many travelers find this site a meaningful addition, providing deeper understanding of Aboriginal history and art.

Tasting and Relaxation

The tour also includes a visit to Distillery Botanica, where you can sample artisan gin in a peaceful setting. This stop offers a delightful break and a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship. The complimentary wine and chocolate add a touch of indulgence as you unwind.

Ending the day at Blues Point Reserve affords spectacular views of Sydney’s skyline and Harbour Bridge, perfect for photos to cap off your adventure. Optional visits to Firescreek Fruit Wines and Pearl Beach allow for further tasting and relaxation, rounding out your full day of experiences.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $662 per person, this private tour offers significant value considering the variety of experiences included. The cost covers private transportation, a dedicated guide, wildlife park entry, professional photos, and multiple scenic and cultural stops. The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas as the highlights, with many acknowledging the good value for what is provided.

The tour’s length — 11 to 12 hours — ensures you cover a lot without feeling rushed. Its flexibility allows you to skip certain stops if you prefer, tailoring the day to your interests.

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Having your own guide means you get more personalized stories and can ask questions freely. It also means the schedule adapts to your pace, which is especially valuable when visiting sites like the wildlife sanctuary or scenic viewpoints. Many reviewers noted the guide’s friendliness, humor, and willingness to go the extra mile, such as taking photos and making extra stops.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits those who want an intimate, comprehensive day that balances city sights with genuine Australian nature. It’s particularly good for travelers who prefer private, flexible arrangements to avoid crowded group tours. Families with children over 7 will appreciate the mix of wildlife, outdoor activities, and scenic sightseeing, provided their children meet the minimum weight requirement for horseback riding.

It’s ideal for visitors who want to see iconic landmarks, but also explore lesser-known natural and cultural sites, making their trip both memorable and authentic.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes — children aged 7 and up can participate in horseback riding, provided they meet the weight limit of 220 pounds (100 kg).

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers all entry fees (wildlife sanctuary), professional photos, private transportation, and horseback riding fees if you choose to ride.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since this is a private tour, you can opt to visit specific locations or skip others based on your interests.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is there a lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options to purchase food at seaside cafes or pack snacks.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
Most travelers find good weather year-round, but check the local forecast as outdoor activities are weather-dependent.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Yes, pickup from your Sydney accommodation is included, making logistics simple.

What type of transportation is used?
Travel is in a private SUV or van, ensuring comfort and privacy.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but check the minimum age and weight restrictions for horseback riding.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
The tour is typically booked 71 days in advance on average, so last-minute bookings may be difficult but are worth checking directly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full day that combines Sydney’s iconic sights with hands-on wildlife experiences and outdoor adventure, this private tour delivers on all counts. The flexibility, personalized attention, and variety of stops make it a smart choice for those who want to maximize their time and see the best of what Australia’s east coast has to offer.

The price might seem high, but when you consider the private transport, expert guide, wildlife encounters, and scenic vistas, many travelers find it a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, wildlife, and nature-based activities without the hassle of organizing multiple arrangements themselves.

This tour is perfect for couples, families with older children, or small groups seeking a tailored, memorable day in Sydney and beyond. Expect a day full of discovery, fun, and authentic moments — a true taste of Australia’s wild side.