Private Kiama, Kangaroo Valley & Southern Highlands Escape

Traveling around Sydney doesn’t mean you have to stick to the city’s busy streets. For those craving a day out that combines natural beauty, charming towns, and a touch of history — all without the hassle of group tours — this private day trip offers a compelling option. The Private Kiama, Kangaroo Valley & Southern Highlands Escape by Escape Scenes promises a smooth, personalized experience in a spacious Mercedes V-Class, perfect for travelers who value comfort and flexibility.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private nature of the trip allows you to avoid the crowds and customize the stops to your interests. Second, the itinerary is thoughtfully balanced — from panoramic mountain views and stunning blowholes to quaint towns and historic villages. The combination of scenery, small-town charm, and relaxed pace makes it ideal for those who want to soak in the scenery without too much walking or rushing.

A potential consideration? Since the tour is about 9 hours long, you’ll want to be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Also, note that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning a stop for a meal is recommended.

This tour suits travelers looking for a stress-free, private day trip that offers enough flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially those keen on scenery, small towns, and local history. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a tailored experience outside the hustle of Sydney.

Key Points

• Private transport means personalized service and a comfortable ride in a Mercedes V-Class.
• Scenic highlights include panoramic mountain views, the famous Kiama Blowhole, and Fitzroy Falls.
• Charming towns like Berry, Berrima, and Kangaroo Valley offer relaxed strolls and boutique shopping.
• Flexible itinerary allows for leisure time at each stop, with optional visits depending on your interest and timing.
• All national park fees are included, removing extra costs and surprises.
• Pickup and drop-off at your Sydney accommodation offer convenience, especially for those staying in the city.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The Drive and First Lookout: Bald Hill

Your day begins early, with pickup from your Sydney accommodation. The journey kicks off with a scenic drive to Bald Hill Lookout, a popular spot known for its stunning panoramic views over Wollongong and the Illawarra Region. We loved the way this spot offers an instant sense of the landscape — the sprawling coastline, rolling hills, and distant mountains. It’s a great way to start your day, soaking in the scenery before heading inland. This stop is only about 15 minutes, but the views linger long after.

Kiama Blowhole: Nature’s Waterworks

Next, you’ll head to Kiama, a small coastal town famous for its blowhole — the largest of its kind in the world. When conditions are right, this natural spectacle can shoot water high into the air, sometimes with a thunderous roar. The 45-minute stop here gives you enough time to stroll along the coast and watch the blowhole in action. Many reviews highlight how impressive this natural feature is — “You might find yourself mesmerized watching the water spout and the waves crash,” one visitor noted.

The Charm of Berry

The next stop is the delightful town of Berry, renowned for its boutique shops and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for a brief stroll and some leisurely browsing. Whether you want to pick up local crafts or just enjoy a coffee, you’ll appreciate the slower pace here. The 30-minute window is enough for a quick explore, but many visitors say they’d love to linger longer — “Berry has a cozy, inviting feel and lovely shops,” one reviewer mentioned.

Kangaroo Valley: A Picturesque Village

Your next destination is Kangaroo Valley, often praised for its postcard-perfect scenery. The small village offers a peaceful setting, with lush greenery and scenic river views. You’ll have about 30 minutes to take in the calm surroundings and snap photos. It’s a quiet spot that feels worlds away from the busy city, ideal for those who want a peaceful moment in nature.

Fitzroy Falls: The Highlight of Morton National Park

From Kangaroo Valley, the tour heads inland towards Morton National Park, with a key stop at Fitzroy Falls. Here, the views are truly breathtaking — the waterfall plunges into a deep gorge, surrounded by lush forest. The Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre provides some context, but the real star is the scenery. We loved the way the views seem to change with the light and weather. The 30-minute visit is enough to admire the falls and take photos, leaving you with a sense of awe. This stop is included in the price, making it excellent value for such spectacular scenery.

Berrima: Step into Colonial History

If time permits, the final stop is Berrima, a historic village dating back to early colonial days. Known for its well-preserved architecture and history, it offers a glimpse into Australia’s past. The 30-minute visit here allows for a quick walk around, with many appreciating the chance to learn about the region’s colonial roots. Several reviews praise Berrima as a charming, atmospheric village that feels like stepping back in time.

Practicalities: What This Tour Means for You

The Mercedes V-Class ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, especially after a long day of exploring. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be hurried or rushed through stops; instead, you can tailor your experience based on your interests. The inclusion of all national park entrance fees is a thoughtful touch, alleviating worries about extra costs.

The tour starts at 8:00 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of opportunities to grab a bite at each stop — from cafes in Kiama and Berry to small eateries in Berrima. The onboard fridge offers bottled drinks, which is handy after walking around in the sun.

How About Value?

At $428.55 per person, this private tour offers significant value, especially considering the personalized service, private transportation, and inclusive fees. Compared to crowded group tours, the private experience is often more relaxing and flexible. Plus, the stops cover a broad swath of scenery and local culture, making it a well-rounded day trip.

What Are the Drawbacks?

The main consideration is the length — nearly 9 hours — so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road. Also, since lunch isn’t included, plan ahead. Some reviews say they would have appreciated more time at certain stops, but the itinerary strikes a good balance for most.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or friends looking for a personalized, relaxed day away from Sydney. It’s especially suitable if you prefer comfort, flexibility, and scenic variety over a packed, rush-through schedule. If you’re interested in small towns, nature, and photo opportunities, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQs

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and return to your Sydney accommodation, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

What’s included in the price?
All national park entrance fees, private transportation in a Mercedes V-Class, and a selection of bottled drinks are included.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during your stops.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can generally adjust the itinerary somewhat, depending on your preferences and timing.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as it’s a relaxed, mostly scenic tour with minimal walking, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families and seniors.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a camera, some snacks, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for outdoor stops.

How do I book?
You can book through Viator or contact Escape Scenes directly via email or phone.

Final Thoughts

The Private Kiama, Kangaroo Valley & Southern Highlands Escape offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and historical sights, all in the comfort of a private vehicle. It’s a fantastic way to step outside Sydney’s urban energy and see some of Australia’s most scenic areas without the stress of group tours or public transport.

This tour is especially valuable for those who appreciate flexibility, personalized service, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply after a relaxing day with spectacular views, this trip delivers that and more. Just remember, it’s a full day — but for the scenery and relaxed pace, it’s more than worth it.

Enjoy the ride and the views — this trip promises a memorable escape into the heart of Australia’s stunning south!