Perth Hills Explorer Private Day Tour

Planning a day out in the Perth Hills? This private tour offers a personalized look at one of Western Australia’s most scenic and diverse regions. Whether you’re into lush waterfalls, charming hill towns, or award-winning wineries, this experience is designed to give you control over your itinerary, making it perfect for those who want a tailored day with the comforts of a guided trip.

What we love most about this tour is its flexibility—you’re free to choose your stops based on your interests and the season, from wildflowers in spring to autumn leaves. Plus, the inclusion of transportation from Perth means no fuss over parking or navigation, especially when you’re eager to soak in the views.

On the flip side, because it’s a private tour, it tends to be pricier than group packages, which could be a consideration for budget travelers. Still, the personalized approach and knowledgeable guide make it a worthwhile investment for those craving an authentic, stress-free day exploring the Hills.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate a customized experience, love nature, and want to enjoy Western Australia’s countryside at their own pace. Whether you’re visiting for a day or want a flexible introduction to the region, this tour offers a thoughtful and engaging way to see the best of Perth Hills.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: Choose your stops, from waterfalls to wineries, tailored to your preferences.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enrich your experience with local insights and stories.
• Comfortable Transport: Pickup and return from Perth make logistics simple and stress-free.
• Seasonal Highlights: Opportunities to see wildflowers, autumn leaves, or waterfalls at their best.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit heritage sites and taste local wines, adding depth to your trip.
• Private Tour: An exclusive experience with just your group for a more intimate adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Perth Hills Explorer Tour

The Perth Hills Explorer Private Day Tour covers roughly six hours of carefully curated explorations, with enough flexibility to customize your visit. The tour’s main appeal is that it’s private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a relaxed pace and personalized conversations with your guide. At $344.28 per person, it’s a premium option, but the value comes from the tailored itinerary, expert guiding, and the comfort of door-to-door pickup.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Araluen Botanic Park
We start with a visit to this beautifully maintained garden, known for its stunning display of native and exotic plants. You’ll spend about an hour and a half wandering among manicured gardens and scenic spots. The admission fee is included, so you can appreciate the lush greenery without extra costs. Visitors often comment on how well-kept the gardens are and how peaceful the atmosphere can be, a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of the Hills.

Stop 2: Lesmurdie Falls
Next, it’s off to Lesmurdie Falls for bush walks and breathtaking waterfall views. This stop takes around an hour, with free access. The trails can vary in difficulty, so moderate fitness is recommended, but the payoff—stunning vistas and the roar of falling water—is well worth it. We loved the way the guide explained the local flora and fauna, making the walk more enriching.

Stop 3: Zig Zag Scenic Drive
One of the tour’s highlights is the winding Zig Zag Road, offering panoramic views of rolling bushland and Perth’s skyline in the distance. This scenic drive is about 45 minutes, and the vistas are fantastic—perfect for photos or just soaking in the landscape. It’s a relaxing way to experience the Hills from the comfort of the vehicle, especially if weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities.

Stop 4: Mundaring Weir
The historic Mundaring Weir provides a glimpse into the region’s engineering past. A bush walk here takes about an hour, with views of the dam and the surrounding bushland. The story of the weir and its role in Western Australia’s water supply adds an interesting historical layer to your day, and some visitors find the setting extremely photogenic.

Stop 5: Kalamunda
A charming hill town, Kalamunda offers a quick drive-through or a chance to stretch your legs. You might pop into the Haunted Hotel or Zig Zag Gallery, or simply enjoy the local atmosphere. It’s a nice spot for a casual break and some window shopping or conversation with locals. The guide often recommends this as a relaxed interlude before lunch.

Stop 6: La Fattoria
For lunch, this cozy Italian restaurant provides hearty, home-style meals and excellent share plates. With outstanding wines and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a good value stop that can be booked on request. The relaxed setting allows for a leisurely meal, giving you time to enjoy the regional flavors and perhaps some local wine.

Stop 7: Tonon Vineyard & Winery
A highlight for wine lovers, Tonon is credited as the first grower of Prosecco in the Perth Hills. It’s a small family-run vineyard with a reputation for award-winning sparklings. A tasting here offers a chance to enjoy some of the best wines in the region and chat with the owners about their craft. It’s an authentic, down-to-earth experience that surpasses many commercial wine tastings.

What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer describing Peter as “amazing” and passionate about his work, particularly noting his care during a rainy trail walk. The other reviewer appreciated Peter’s friendliness, punctuality, and responsible attitude, making the outing both fun and safe. These comments underscore the importance of a good guide when exploring unfamiliar terrain and scenery.

Many guests also praised the stunning views, especially from the Zig Zag Drive and the waterfalls, which are often described as picture-perfect. The inclusion of wine tasting at Tonon Vineyard tends to be a favorite, appreciated for the award-winning sparklings and friendly ambiance.

Some reviewers mention the value for money — while the price is on the higher side, the personalized service, private transportation, and curated stops make it a worthwhile expense. The tours are described as convenient and comfortable, with excellent attention to detail.

Possible Considerations

Because this is a private tour, it’s naturally more expensive than group options, which might be a barrier for budget travelers. Also, moderate physical fitness is recommended for some stops like bush walks and hikes. Weather can influence the experience, but the flexibility built into the itinerary means you can adapt as needed—your guide will help tailor the day to conditions.

Practical Details

The tour operates daily, with pickup from your accommodation in Perth or the inner metro region. It’s a full-day experience, approximately six hours, perfect for those who want an in-depth, personalized look at the Hills. The tour includes bottled water and offers the freedom to select activities based on your interests.

Lunch and winery visits are flexible; you can choose whether to dine at La Fattoria, visit other local eateries, or bring your own snacks. The tour is not suitable for travelers seeking a quick visit—it’s meant for those wanting a relaxed, customizable exploration.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Perth Hills adventure is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who value a tailored experience and want to skip the crowds. It suits travelers with moderate fitness levels who enjoy nature, scenic drives, and good food or wine. If you’re after an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the Hills’ beauty and heritage, this tour delivers.

It’s particularly good for those who prefer a flexible itinerary — able to pick and choose stops depending on weather, mood, or seasonal highlights. If you’re after a relaxing yet comprehensive day with knowledgeable guides and the ability to customize, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most stops involve some walking, moderate fitness is recommended, especially for bush walks. The itinerary is flexible, so you can tailor activities to your energy level.

Can I choose my lunch spot?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility for lunch. La Fattoria is recommended, but you can also decide on other options or bring your own snacks.

What are the main highlights?
Expect beautiful gardens at Araluen Botanic Park, waterfalls at Lesmurdie, scenic drives on Zig Zag Road, historic views at Mundaring Weir, and wine tasting at Tonon Vineyard.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Perth or the inner metro region are included, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

How long is the tour?
It runs for approximately six hours, giving plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are tickets included for attractions?
Admission to Araluen Botanic Park is included; other sites like waterfalls and the scenic drive are free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

The Perth Hills Explorer Private Day Tour offers a thoughtfully arranged, flexible way to see one of Western Australia’s most picturesque regions. Its appeal lies in the combination of expert-guided touring, scenic beauty, and the ability to customize your day—whether that’s visiting waterfalls, heritage sites, or tasting local wines.

For those who value comfort, personalized attention, and authentic experiences, this tour provides excellent value. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the standard tourist spots and enjoy a tailored day that reflects their interests and seasonal highlights.

While it’s a pricier option, the quality of guidance, the exclusivity, and the opportunity to craft your own adventure make it a memorable way to experience the Perth Hills. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and highly personalized day in nature, this tour is well worth considering.