Koalas, Kangaroos and Lyrebirds

If you’re heading to New South Wales and love the idea of seeing native Australian animals in their natural environment, this Koalas, Kangaroos and Lyrebirds tour from Sapphire Nature Tours might just be worth considering. It promises a chance to spot some of the country’s most iconic creatures while exploring the stunning landscapes of Mallacoota, all in a manageable 6.5-hour day trip.

What really caught our eye are the opportunities to see adorable wildlife like koalas and lyrebirds, and the scenic coastal vistas and towering eucalyptus forests that make this area so special. Plus, the visit to historic sites such as the Seahorse Inn and Boyd Town adds a touch of local history to the natural beauty. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some walking—about 5 km—and that it’s not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine wildlife spotting with leisurely sightseeing without overloading their day. If you’re into nature, birdwatching, or just love the idea of wandering through Australian forests and along coastlines, this trip could be a great fit. Just keep in mind the walking involved and the need for comfortable shoes.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot koalas, lyrebirds, and other native animals in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas and large eucalyptus forests.
• Historical Stops: Visit the Seahorse Inn and Boyd Town, established in 1843.
• Flexible Walking: About 5 km of walking, mostly optional, with options to minimize exertion.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from multiple NSW locations, small group size, includes water and binoculars if needed.
• Great for Nature Lovers: Ideal for those who enjoy birdwatching and scenic drives.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What the Tour Offers

This guided tour through Mallacoota showcases the area’s natural charm, with a focus on local wildlife, forests, and coastal scenery. The tour lasts about 6.5 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and some walking. Starting from various pickup points in Merimbula, Eden, Tathra, Pambula Beach, and Pambula, the experience is designed to be flexible and intimate, with private group sizes that make the day feel personalized.

The Journey Begins

After being picked up in a comfortable white Mercedes Sprinter van, you’ll head towards the hidden gems of Mallacoota. One of the first stops is a brief photo opportunity and guided walk, giving you a chance to soak in the environment and get a feel for the area’s landscape before fully diving into wildlife spotting. This part of the trip is highly praised for the scenic views and peaceful ambiance.

Exploring the Natural Beauty

Next, you’ll spend several hours exploring the southern coast of Mallacoota, walking along boardwalks and forest trails. Expect to see towering eucalyptus trees, which form some of Australia’s most iconic forests, and coastal vistas that stretch endlessly. The area is less crowded, offering a sense of solitude that makes wildlife encounters feel more authentic.

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Wildlife Encounters

This is the main event. Keep an eye out for koalas, often spotted lounging in trees, and lyrebirds, renowned for their impressive songs and ability to mimic other sounds. The tour guides are generally knowledgeable and enthusiastic, providing insights into the animals and their habitats. Several reviews mention that wildlife sightings can vary depending on the day, but the chances are good given the tour’s focus on natural habitats.

Historical and Coastal Stops

Around the halfway point, the tour visits Boyd Town, established in 1843, and the Seahorse Inn, where you can learn about the area’s history and enjoy a quick refreshment. The tour also includes a stop at Quarantine Bay, perfect for a few photos and perhaps spotting a large stingray gliding beneath the water—an awe-inspiring moment for many.

Lunch and Relaxation

A highlight for many is the included lunch at a local cafe. It’s a good chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy regional cuisine while discussing the morning’s sightings. The tour provides local snacks and regional food, which adds to the experience.

The Return

On the way back, you’ll enjoy more scenic views and a bit of downtime before being dropped off at your original pickup points. Throughout, the small-group setting means conversations are easy, and the guides can tailor some of the walking or sightseeing to your preferences.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers praise the stunning views and the chance to see wildlife like koalas and lyrebirds, often calling the experience “worthwhile.” One reviewer mentions that “the scenery was absolutely breathtaking,” while another appreciates the “knowledgeable and friendly guide” who kept everyone engaged.

A common tip is to bring binoculars—although the tour supplies them if needed—to make wildlife viewing easier. Some mention that the walking can be a bit strenuous if you’re not used to it, but most found it manageable, especially since the walk is around 5 km and optional where possible.

Downsides

A few reviews note that sightings depend on luck—wildlife can be elusive, especially during certain times of day. Also, the walks involve some moderate fitness, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light hiking or those willing to take it at a relaxed pace.

Is It Worth It?

When considering the value, think about the included transportation, guiding, and the opportunity to see iconic Australian animals and scenery that are often hard to access alone. The price reflects a well-organized, small-group experience with a focus on quality sightings and local insights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone curious about Australian wildlife. It suits travelers comfortable with walking moderate distances and those eager to learn about local history as well as wildlife. While not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s perfect for adults looking for a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

FAQ

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: It’s not recommended for children under 8 due to the walking involved and the nature of the experience.

Q: Is there much walking involved?
A: Yes, around 5 km, mostly optional. The tour can be tailored a bit to your comfort level, but some walking is necessary to fully enjoy the sights.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Comfortable shoes are a must. Water bottles are recommended, though water and binoculars are supplied if needed.

Q: Can I see koalas and lyrebirds easily?
A: Wildlife sightings depend on the day and luck, but the guides will do their best to point out animals and bird species in their natural environment.

Q: Does the tour include food?
A: Yes, there is a lunch stop with regional snacks and a meal at a local cafe, providing a good break and a taste of regional flavors.

Q: What if I want to minimize walking?
A: You can request to walk less, and the guides will do their best to accommodate you, although some walking will be necessary.

Q: Where does the tour pick up from?
A: Pickups are available from Merimbula, Eden, Tathra, Pambula Beach, and Pambula, making it convenient for many travelers in the area.

Q: Is this a private tour?
A: Yes, it’s operated as a private group experience, giving it a more personal touch.

If you’re after a relaxing day of wildlife watching combined with scenic coastal views, this tour offers a genuine taste of what New South Wales has to offer. It’s especially good for those who enjoy birdwatching and want a good chance to see koalas and lyrebirds in the wild. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable way to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While it’s not a guaranteed wildlife sighting tour, the combination of nature, history, and stunning scenery makes it a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Australia’s natural wonders without a full-day commitment. Just remember to bring your patience, comfortable shoes, and an eye for the small details that make this landscape so uniquely Australian.

Whether you’re visiting the area for a limited time or looking to add a nature-focused day to your trip, this experience should leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and many chances to say you saw a real koala in the wild.

You can check availability for your dates here: