Great Ocean Road Reverse Rainforest & 12 Apostles from Melbourne

Traveling along Australia’s famous Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list experience for many; the rugged coastlines, iconic limestone stacks, and lush rainforests are hard to beat. This particular tour from Melbourne offers a unique twist by taking you in reverse, meaning you’ll hit some of the most popular sights before the crowds arrive.

We’ve seen plenty of reviews and details about this trip, so if you’re considering it, here’s a straight-shooting look at what you can expect.

What we love? First, the chance to see the 12 Apostles early in the day, when they’re less crowded, provides amazing photo opportunities. Second, the combination of coastal views with a rainforest hike and wildlife spotting—especially wild koalas—is genuinely appealing.

One thing to consider? The length of the day — approximately 13 hours — can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long bus trips. But if you’re after a comprehensive experience with good scenery and knowledgeable guides, this might be right up your alley.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving, enjoy nature and wildlife in their natural environment, and appreciate seamless logistics with a small group. If you like a mix of sightseeing, light walking, and a touch of history, you’ll probably enjoy it.

Key Points

• Drive in reverse to avoid crowds and get better photo opportunities in the morning.
• Includes a picnic lunch, making it easy to enjoy the day without extra stops for food.
• Spot wild koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals in their habitat.
• Visit multiple iconic sights, from the 12 Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge and Otway Rainforest.
• Comfortable transportation with a small group, Wi-Fi onboard, and expert guides.
• A full-day adventure perfect for travelers who want to maximize scenery and experience without the hassle of self-driving.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting from Melbourne

The tour kicks off early at 7:35 am at the Immigration Museum, so you’ll want to be ready with your camera, hat, and curiosity. The coach is modern, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort, with onboard Wi-Fi—handy for some quick Instagram uploads or checking maps. With most groups capped at 28 travelers, you’re not crammed in, though reviews suggest that accommodation for larger groups in tight seats can be tight, so packing light is wise.

First Stop: WWI Memorial & Morning Tea

After about 10 minutes on the road, you’ll make a brief stop at the WWI Memorial for a stretch and a cuppa. It’s a nice way to ease into the day with a bit of local history and some fresh air. Most reviews mention the stops are well-paced, giving ample time to get a breather before hitting the main sights.

The Twelve Apostles: Early Morning Glory

Next, you arrive at the 12 Apostles, with about 45 minutes to marvel at their majestic limestone stacks. Since you’re driving in reverse, you’ll visit this spot early in the morning, often before the crowds. Many travelers rave about how spectacular the views are when the crowds are minimal, and the lighting is softer for photos. The reviews consistently mention that seeing the Apostles in the quiet morning makes a huge difference—”you can get the best shots without hundreds of other travelers blocking your view.”

Optional helicopter rides over the Apostles are available, but note these are payable on the day if you choose to add that experience.

Loch Ard Gorge: The Shipwreck's Tale

After the Apostles, stops at Loch Ard Gorge offer a chance to explore another iconic landscape and learn about the famous shipwreck story of Tom and Eva. With about 45 minutes here, you can walk down onto the beach, take photos, and soak in the natural beauty. Reviewers have commented on the emotional impact of this site—it's more than just a pretty view, it's part of Australia's history.

Otway Rainforest Hike

Post-lunch, the tour heads into the Great Otway National Park for a 45-minute walk through towering trees, lush ferns, and tumbling waterfalls. This segment is perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy a light hike amidst ancient forests. The scenery can be quite dramatic—misty mornings add a mystical quality, and many reviews highlight the tranquility of this part of the trip.

Wildlife Spotting at Kennett River

Wishing to see native wildlife? Stops at Wye River and Kennett River are key. With about 20 minutes at Wye River, your guide will look for wild koalas hanging out in the trees—though it's a bit of a wild card, as animals are unpredictable. Still, many travelers have reported lucky sightings, making this a highlight.

The Memorial Arch & Return to Melbourne

A quick stop at the iconic Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch celebrates the history of the road's construction, a WWII project built by soldiers. It’s a short photo op but worth it for the history buff or those wanting that classic shot.

Finally, the trip winds back to Melbourne, arriving around 8 pm. Most travelers find that the long day is worth it for the mix of scenery, wildlife, and history packed into a single trip.

The Value of This Tour

At $104 per person, the price covers transport, all entry fees into national parks, a light picnic lunch, and guided commentary. Considering the logistics of organizing such a trip independently—plus the cost of parking, fuel, and planning—the tour offers solid value. The reviews often mention how the guides go above and beyond, sharing stories and ensuring everyone is comfortable.

A common praise is the expert guides, like Kiwi, James, or Kiwi Chris, who provide not only factual information but also extra stories and local insights. Many reviews highlight that the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making the long day more engaging.

That said, the trip is long, and some reviews point out that the bus seats can be cramped, especially for larger adults. Bringing a small pillow or planning for some comfort may help. Also worth noting: meals are limited to the picnic lunch, so if you crave more substantial food, you might want to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the stress of driving. It suits those who prefer a relaxed, guided day with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife encounters. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those eager to beat the crowds will especially appreciate the early visits to key spots.

While families with older children could enjoy the rainforest walk and scenic stops, this isn’t tailored specifically as a family tour—it's more about the scenery and wildlife. If you're after a quick, efficient way to see the coast with an expert guide, this is a reliable choice.

FAQ

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The tour lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 8 pm.

Q: Is the tour suitable for children?
A: While not specifically designed as a family tour, older kids who enjoy nature and sightseeing will likely find it engaging. Keep in mind the long day and bus ride.

Q: Do I have to pay extra for activities like helicopter rides?
A: Yes, optional helicopter flights over the Apostles are payable on the day directly to the operator.

Q: Are meals included?
A: A light picnic lunch is included, but additional meals or snacks are not. You might want to bring extra food if you’re hungry.

Q: Can I see wildlife, like koalas, easily?
A: Wildlife spotting depends on luck, but stops at Wye River and Kennett River increase your chances of seeing koalas and kangaroos in their natural environment.

Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. Rain or shine, you’ll still get to enjoy the sights, though the rainforest walk might be more atmospheric in misty weather.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this Reverse Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne offers a fantastic way to explore some of Australia's most stunning coastal landscapes and natural wonders without the hassle of self-driving. The early visit to the 12 Apostles means you'll beat the crowds and capture better photos—an advantage many travelers value highly. The combination of scenic coastlines, lush rainforests, and native wildlife ensures a varied experience that’s both relaxing and invigorating.

While it’s a long day, the comfort of a small group, the knowledge of experienced guides, and the breathtaking views make it a worthwhile adventure for most travelers. If you’re after a well-organized, memorable day out that balances scenery, history, and wildlife, this tour deserves serious consideration.

In summary, this tour is best for those who want to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road efficiently and enjoy some of Australia's most iconic sights early in the day. It’s a great pick for nature lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone who prefers guided trips to self-drive. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with plenty of unforgettable moments.