Melbourne: Yarra Valley Hike with Kangaroos & Sunset Picnic

If you’re looking for a way to escape the city’s hustle and get a genuine taste of Australia’s wild side, the Yarra Valley Hike with Kangaroos & Sunset Picnic offers a memorable afternoon and evening adventure. This small-group guided tour takes you through some of Victoria’s most beautiful natural landscapes, where wildlife, stunning views, and a relaxed picnic come together in a package that’s both fun and enriching.

What we love about this tour is how it balances wildlife observation with scenic hiking and a generous dash of leisure — especially the chance to see kangaroos grazing in their natural habitat. We also appreciate the thoughtful addition of a sunset picnic with champagne, which provides a perfect end to the day. That said, a possible drawback might be the moderate fitness level required, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a 5km walk on uneven terrain.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a blend of outdoor activity and authentic wildlife encounters, paired with relaxed social moments and beautiful vistas. If you’re not into strenuous hikes or traveling with very young children, this tour fits well for those aged 12 and up who enjoy nature and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Guaranteed sightings of kangaroos and wombats in their natural environment.
• Scenic Views: Photos and breathtaking panoramas from the highest point of the trail.
• Authentic Experience: Small groups and guided commentary enhance the sense of connection with nature.
• Evening Relaxation: Sunset picnic with champagne or orange juice offers a relaxing, celebratory vibe.
• Moderate Hike: 5km loop through bushland and along the Yarra River, suitable for those with a medium fitness level.
• Value for Money: Includes transport, a picnic, and wildlife spotting, making it a well-rounded outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Transportation

The journey begins at Federation Square’s bus & coach pickup zone, a central and convenient Melbourne starting point. From there, a comfortable van whisks you off in about an hour to the Yarra Valley region. The ride itself is a good chance to get oriented and perhaps chat with fellow travelers about what’s ahead.

The small group size — usually not more than 10–12 people — means you’ll get personalized attention from the guide, who is knowledgeable and eager to share insights about local flora, fauna, and landscapes. The tour provider, The Yarra Valley Touring Co, has a solid reputation for trustworthy, engaging excursions.

Visiting Yarra Farm & Collecting Supplies

The first stop is a working farm, where you’ll pick up fresh regional fruit and supplies for your picnic. This is a nice touch, as it adds freshness and local flavor to your meal. It also includes a quick bathroom break before heading into the wilderness.

This farm visit sets the tone for the tour — authentic, local, and hands-on. It’s a good reminder that what you’re about to experience is rooted in the genuine countryside of Victoria.

The Mountain Loop Hike in Warrandyte State Park

The core of the tour is a moderate 5km hike through Mount Lofty in Warrandyte State Park, often praised for its stunning views and wildlife-rich environment. The trail undulates along the bushland and follows the Yarra River, offering a balanced mix of shaded wooded areas and open grassy fields.

Our guide walks with the group, pointing out wombat burrows, grassland grazing kangaroos, and colorful parrots. The guided commentary enriches the experience, turning a walk into an educational outing. The trail’s highest point affords panoramic views of the valley — a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable highlight for many.

According to reviews, “the guide was very knowledgeable and engaging,” helping us understand not just what we saw, but the ecological importance of the landscape. The trail’s undulating nature provides a gentle climb, so comfortable walking shoes or runners are advised.

Wildlife Spotting and the Guarantee

One of the most touted aspects of this tour is the money-back guarantee that you will see wild kangaroos. Our guide emphasized how these iconic animals are often seen grazing in grassy clearings, especially around dawn and dusk — perfect timing for a sunset-focused outing.

Along the trail, Wombat burrows are sometimes spotted, along with colorful parrots, making this a photographer’s delight. For animal lovers, this is a genuine chance to observe native wildlife in its natural habitat rather than in a zoo.

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The Sunset Picnic

As the walk concludes, everyone makes their way to the highest point of the trail, where a champagne or orange juice awaits. The timing couldn’t be better — just as the sun begins to dip behind the hills, casting a warm glow over the Yarra Valley.

The picnic consists of sandwich wraps and fresh fruit, simple but satisfying fare. Our guide pours the champagne, and everyone relaxes to soak in the breathtaking views. It’s a humble yet sophisticated moment, perfect for unwinding after a moderate hike.

Reviews consistently praise this part — “the picnic was lovely, with great views and good company,” said one traveler. The sunset enhances the experience, creating a memorable, almost cinematic scene.

Return Journey

After the picnic, the van takes you back to Melbourne, arriving at Federation Square in about an hour. The group often shares stories and photos from the day, bonding over the shared experience.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts around 5 hours, departing at 3:30 pm. This timing allows for a relaxed afternoon and evening, fitting well into a day of sightseeing or as a stand-alone experience.

Group Size and Guides

Small groups ensure more personal attention and easier conversation. The guides are live, English-speaking, and experienced, which makes a significant difference in the quality of the experience.

Price and Value

While the specific cost isn’t detailed here, the price includes transportation, wildlife spotting, the picnic, and guiding services — making it a competitive choice among similar experiences. The value is enhanced by the guaranteed wildlife sightings and the scenic vistas.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. A reusable water bottle is advised, and since the walk is moderate, most people with a medium fitness level can enjoy it comfortably.

Not Suitable For

Children under 12 and those with low fitness levels might find the walk challenging. The tour is designed for those who can handle a 5km hike over uneven terrain without issue.

This Yarra Valley hike and sunset picnic offers a well-rounded outdoor experience, combining wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and relaxed social moments. It’s a great way to connect with Australia’s natural environment in a way that feels both authentic and accessible. The guides’ knowledge and the guarantee of seeing kangaroos make it stand out, especially for first-time visitors eager to see native wildlife.

The value is solid, given that transportation, guiding, meals, and wildlife guarantees are included. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity and want a peaceful yet adventurous afternoon in nature. If you’re after a genuine Australian bush experience with a touch of luxury (champagne at sunset), this tour checks all those boxes.

For those seeking a scenic hike with wildlife, stunning views, and a celebratory picnic, this outing from Melbourne offers a memorable, well-organized escape into the wilds of Victoria.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes a coach from Federation Square and back, making it convenient and comfortable.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 5 hours, starting at 3:30 pm and returning in the early evening.

What is the group size? The tour is small-group, typically limited to around 10–12 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s recommended for those 12 and older with a medium fitness level. Not suitable for young children or those with low fitness.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes (runners are fine), weather-appropriate clothing, and a hat are advised.

Can I expect to see wildlife? Yes. The tour guarantees sightings of kangaroos, and guides are skilled at helping you spot wombats and parrots as well.

What’s included in the picnic? Sandwich wraps, fresh fruit, and a choice of champagne or orange juice.

What’s the best time for wildlife viewing? Dusk is ideal, which is why the sunset picnic is timed to coincide with animal activity.

Is the tour flexible if I want to cancel? Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Whether you’re in Melbourne for a few days or just passing through, this tour offers a chance to see genuine Australian wildlife and enjoy spectacular views — all in a relaxed, friendly setting perfect for nature lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby