10 Days Ultimate Guided Tour of Tasmania – Comfort Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery without the hassle of planning every detail, this 10-day guided tour might just be your ideal trip. While I haven’t done the tour myself, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for those who want to see Tasmania’s highlights, from rugged national parks to historic sites, all while enjoying a comfortable, stress-free experience.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are the expertly led guided experiences—your guide Anthony, in particular, receives glowing reviews—and the variety of landscapes covered. You’ll explore everything from ancient rainforests and alpine lakes to wild coastlines and convict-era ruins. However, it’s worth noting that this is a motels-only tour, meaning no luxury lodges or camping options. If you prefer a more flexible, independent style or are on a tight budget, this might not be the right fit.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized way to see Tasmania’s most iconic sights without the stress of driving or booking accommodations. It’s also suitable for those who love nature, wildlife, and a bit of history, especially since it includes several nature cruises, wildlife sanctuaries, and UNESCO sites. Keep in mind, it’s a group tour with a maximum of 20 travelers, so it’s more social than private, but the pace is manageable and the stops varied enough to keep everyone engaged.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with many meals, guided walks, and entry tickets included, offering great value for a 10-day trip.
• Expert guides like Anthony are highly praised for their knowledge and flexibility, enhancing the overall experience.
• Diverse landscapes from rainforests, alpine lakes, rugged coastlines, to historic towns and islands.
• Eco-friendly focus through Ecotourism Australia certification, appealing to responsible travelers.
• Comfortable motels provide a relaxed base, but don’t expect luxury accommodations.
• Long days and extensive travel—with some 12-hour days—so it suits energetic travelers comfortable with a busy schedule.

A Deep Dive into the Tasmania Tour

An Overview of the Itinerary

The core appeal of this 10-day tour is the balance between guided exploration and free time. Starting in Hobart, the journey quickly pushes into Tasmania’s wild heart, showcasing some of the most iconic and lesser-known spots. The first day focuses on the rainforests of the Tasmanian Wilderness, with a visit to stunning Russell Falls and the massive Lake St. Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. You’ll get your first taste of Tasmania’s lush, verdant landscapes—perfect for walking and photography.

A highlight that many reviews mention is the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, where you’ll see the striking tannin-colored Franklin River. The day ends in Queenstown, a historic mining town perched against the mountains, with views of Mt. Lyell and Iron Blow Lookout. The long travel time (about 12 hours) makes it a full but rewarding day, and the group dinner helps everyone unwind after the day’s adventures.

Day 2: Gordon River and Strahan

Day 2 is dedicated to the famous Gordon River Cruise. Departing from Strahan, this cruise offers a fantastic way to see the UNESCO World Heritage rainforest from the water, complemented by a guided walk through the ancient forest. Travelers consistently mention the quality of the cruise and the knowledgeable guides, which makes it a real highlight. Strahan, a charming harborside village, acts as a picturesque gateway into the wilderness.

The afternoon involves traveling to Tullah, where you stay on the shores of Lake Rosebery, with a lovely lakeside chalet as your base. Reviews praise the scenery and the peaceful setting, perfect for relaxing after the cruise.

Day 3: Exploring the North West Coast

Heading further north, the tour takes in Hellyer Gorge’s stunning views and the quaint town of Stanley, famous for The Nut. Here, you get some time to explore, have lunch, and soak up the coastal charm. The Edge of the World at Arthur River is a raw, natural spot where the air feels invigorating, and the landscape feels untouched.

Continuing to Marrawah and Smithton, the tour showcases Tasmania’s rugged coastline and a local favorite surf spot. The stay outside Smithton at Tall Timbers provides a comfortable resting point amid scenic surroundings.

Day 4: The Tarkine Wilderness and the North West

This day is a deep dive into the Tarkine, one of Tasmania’s most impressive natural areas. You’ll walk through rainforests to see the unique Trowutta Arch, a geological marvel. The drive through the Tarkine drive itself offers views of ancient forests, relics of flora and fauna, and a chance to truly feel immersed in wilderness.

Stops at Table Cape Lookout serve up sweeping vistas over Bass Strait, and Boat Harbour Beach reveals some of the island’s best white sands and turquoise waters. The day wraps up in Penguin, a charming coastal town, with a relaxed evening in a small community.

Day 5: Cradle Mountain and Launceston

Cradle Mountain is a standout highlight, offering stunning alpine scenery and the chance to walk around the iconic lake. The tour provides flexible options for exploring, so you can enjoy the landscape at your own pace. Reviewers mention that guides are helpful in maximizing the experience, whether that’s spotting wildlife or choosing the best vantage points.

Afterward, the tour takes you through Sheffield’s famous murals, then on to Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city. Here, you can explore at leisure—this is a good chance for some relaxed sightseeing and sampling local cafes.

Day 6: The East Coast: Bay of Fires & Bicheno

The day begins with a scenic stop at Cataract Gorge Reserve, where you might spot wallabies and enjoy a peaceful walk. Then it’s off to the Bay of Fires, with its iconic orange boulders and pristine beaches—one of Tasmania’s most photographed spots.

Bicheno is known for its coastal charm and the adorable little penguins you might see at dusk. It’s a lively town with a friendly vibe, and many guests enjoy the chance to stroll along the waterfront and soak in the scenery.

Day 7: Freycinet National Park

Freycinet is often called Tasmania’s East Coast jewel, and it doesn’t disappoint. The highlight for many is the walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, which offers postcard-perfect views of the curved white beach and bright blue waters. Other activities include visiting Honeymoon Bay and Cape Tourville Lighthouse, both offering panoramic vistas.

In the evening, you spend three nights in Hobart. The city itself is lively, with lots of restaurants, bars, and galleries to explore. The tour’s flexibility lets you enjoy Hobart’s culinary scene or simply relax.

Day 8: Wildlife & Local Culture

This day combines wildlife encounters—at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll meet Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos—and some local culture in Richmond, a beautifully preserved colonial village. Walking over the oldest convict-built bridge adds a historical touch. Many reviews mention that guides make these visits informative and engaging.

In the evening, you could visit the Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating brewery, for dinner and drinks in a historic setting.

Day 9: Bruny Island Adventure

Crossing to Bruny Island, you’ll explore its stunning coastlines, enjoy panoramic views from Truganini Lookout, and visit South Bruny National Park. Cape Bruny Lighthouse and the chance to spot white wallabies are among the highlights. The scenery here is rugged and striking, giving you a real sense of Tasmania’s wild corners.

Back in Hobart, the lively Salamanca precinct beckons for dinner, with plenty of options to unwind and reflect on the trip.

Day 10: Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula

The final day takes you to Port Arthur, one of Australia’s best-preserved convict sites. Walking through the ruins and gardens offers a tangible connection to Tasmania’s past. Then, the tour explores notable viewpoints like Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen, dramatic natural formations along the Tasman Peninsula.

This comprehensive final stop leaves you with a sense of Tasmania’s diverse landscapes—both natural and historical.

Why This Tour Works Well

What travelers consistently rave about are the knowledgeable guides, especially Anthony, whose flexibility and expertise help make the experience memorable. Reviews mention how he brought the landscape alive with stories and kept the group engaged during walks and driving stretches.

The scenic diversity is impressive: rainforests, mountains, beaches, wildlife, and historic sites—all packed into 10 days. You’ll get a true taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning or driving long distances yourself.

The inclusion of key activities like wildlife sanctuaries, cruises, and walks adds depth to the experience, making it more than just sightseeing. The tours are paced well enough to enjoy relaxed mornings and evenings, with some long travel days balanced by restful stays in comfortable motels.

On the Price and Value

At $2,397.10 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions—many meals, entry tickets, guided walks, and transport. For travelers who want to maximize their time and minimize logistics, it’s a solid investment. Many reviews highlight that the arrangements are smooth and well-organized, especially for those unfamiliar with Tasmania’s geography.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the long days and extensive travel—some days last up to 12 hours. If you prefer a slower pace or travel with young children, this might feel rushed. Also, since it’s motel-based, if you’re used to luxury lodges, this might seem more basic, though most find the accommodations comfortable and functional.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Tasmania’s highlights. It appeals especially to those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and history, and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you value having everything arranged, with knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour offers a hassle-free way to see Tasmania in style.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth considering whether the long travel days suit your style. But for those eager to explore Tasmania’s wild landscapes comfortably and efficiently, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, the easy-to-moderate walks and engaging activities could be enjoyable for older children. However, the long days and full itinerary might be tiring for younger kids.

Are meals included?
Yes, many meals are included as part of the tour, which helps reduce the planning and expense on your end.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
The tour stays in motels, offering a comfortable base after full days of exploring. While not luxury lodges, reviews say the accommodations are clean and functional.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, making it small enough for personalized attention but large enough for a social atmosphere.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about three months in advance—on average around 93 days—so it’s wise to plan early.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so make sure your plans are firm before booking.

Is there any eco or responsible travel emphasis?
Yes, the company is eco-certified through Ecotourism Australia, so you can travel with a peace of mind knowing sustainability is a priority.

This tour offers a balanced, in-depth way to explore Tasmania’s wild side, with expert guidance and a comfortable setup. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just want to see Tasmania’s most iconic sights without the planning stress, it’s worth considering.