Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles Tour – Less crowd more highlights

Exploring the Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles Tour – Less Crowds, More Highlights

Thinking about visiting the iconic Great Ocean Road but worried about the crowds? This particular tour offers a different take—starting early at the 12 Apostles before the crowds arrive, which means you’ll get those perfect photo moments and a more laid-back experience. It’s designed for small groups, with personalized attention from your friendly local guide, and covers the major highlights along the route.

We like that this tour includes all entry fees upfront—no hidden costs here—and features a flexible itinerary that lets you enjoy scenic stops, stunning coastal views, and some delightful local stories. Still, it’s worth noting that the experience might feel a bit rushed for some, given the full day packed with stops. Overall, it’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, intimate journey with fewer people and more meaningful sights.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour has mixed reviews about booking accuracy—so double-check your reservation details. If you’re okay with that small potential hiccup, this trip will deliver a memorable taste of one of Australia’s most beautiful regions, especially if you’re someone who values scenic views over crowds.

This experience suits those who want a more relaxed, less crowded way to see the iconic sights and don’t mind a full-day adventure. Perfect for small groups, couples, or families who appreciate a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Early start at the 12 Apostles means avoiding the crowds and capturing great photos.
• All entry fees are included, making the experience straightforward without surprise costs.
• Small group size (max 11 travelers) allows for a more personalized, flexible journey.
• A comprehensive itinerary covers major landmarks, scenic drives, and local stories.
• Some reviews highlight booking issues, so paying attention to your reservation is wise.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

If you’re considering this tour, it’s helpful to know what you’re in for—and what makes it stand out compared to typical bus trips. The most notable feature is the reverse itinerary, which starts early at the Twelve Apostles. Visiting this world-famous landmark before the crowds arrive means you’ll get those breathtaking photos without the throng of selfie-sticks and tour buses. You’ll love the tranquil vibe and the chance to soak in the limestone stacks from multiple viewpoints.

The Twelve Apostles: Early Morning Magic

The Twelve Apostles are the star of the show, and arriving first offers a real advantage. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, which is ample time to explore different viewpoints. Expect to see the towering limestone formations up close, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Given that this stop is included in your ticket, you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and you’ll likely appreciate the peace and quiet before the day’s crowds hit.

Loch Ard Gorge: The Tragedy and Beauty

Next, a visit to Loch Ard Gorge allows you to connect with stories of shipwrecks and survival. This site isn’t just visually stunning—its dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches tell a story of past maritime drama. Travelers have loved this stop for its blend of natural beauty and compelling tales, spending around 30 minutes wandering the area. One reviewer mentioned the gorge’s “dramatic cliff formations” and the fascinating shipwreck stories, which add an educational layer to the visit.

Scenic Coastal Drive and Highlights

After the gorge, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, taking in the stunning coastal vistas, small seaside towns, beaches, and clifftops. About 2 hours and 10 minutes are allocated to this part, so expect a relaxed ride with plenty of stops. You’ll have opportunities to snap photos, admire the scenery, and learn from your guide about the coastline’s history and geography.

The Razorback: A Striking Limestone Formation

One of the more eye-catching stops is The Razorback, a long, narrow limestone ridge carved over time by wind and sea. It’s a photographer’s dream and a favorite among travelers for its unique shape. The 30-minute stop here gives you enough time to take in the views and appreciate this natural sculpture, with all entry fees covered.

Rainforest Walk in Great Otway National Park

A highlight for nature lovers is the visit to Great Otway National Park. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful walk beneath towering eucalyptus trees, exploring Australia’s ancient rainforest. This stop underscores the tour’s focus on natural beauty and offers a break from coastal scenery—it’s a chance to breathe in some fresh forest air and enjoy the tranquility of this lush environment.

Lunch at Apollo Bay

Nearly halfway through the day, you’ll stop at Apollo Bay for about 45 minutes. This seaside village offers a charming setting nestled between green hills and the ocean. You’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy lunch (own expense). The stop provides a good rest and a chance to relax, people-watch, and soak in the laid-back coastal vibe. Many travelers find this a welcome break in the busy day.

Kennett River: Koalas and Wildlife

A real treat is the Kennett River stop, famous for its wild koalas resting in the eucalyptus trees. Spending around 30 minutes here, you might even spot these adorable creatures up close. It’s an authentic wildlife encounter, and many visitors find it a delightful part of the drive.

The Iconic Memorial Archway & Optional Stops

Next, the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway serves as a photo-worthy symbol of the route. Built to honor returned soldiers, it offers a commemorative pause and a scenic backdrop. The 15-minute stop is included and gives you a chance to snap some shots and learn a bit about the history.

Depending on timing and weather conditions, the tour might include a visit to Split Point Lighthouse or a stop at a chocolate factory—though these are optional and subject to change. The lighthouse is a classic photo stop and adds a maritime touch to your journey.

Scenic Return via the Coast

Finally, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back, offering more beautiful views of the coastline and a relaxing end to a long, fulfilling day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour runs approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day experience. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which helps keep everyone comfortable, especially on warm days. With a maximum of 11 travelers, the small-group setting allows for more flexibility and personalized attention from your guide. The cost per person is quite modest at $3.59—especially considering all the entry fees are included, and the number of highlights covered.

However, the tour’s reviews highlight some booking issues, with one traveler noting they didn’t get into the tour they expected. Double-check your reservation details, especially if you’re booking to avoid larger groups. The tour’s description indicates that it’s designed for those who prefer fewer people and a more relaxed pace, but the actual experience might vary based on how the booking is handled.

What the Tour Includes

• All entrance fees are covered, so you can focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about extra costs.
• The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially nice on hot days.
• Parking and government fees are included, simplifying the process.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch, which gives you the freedom to choose your preferred spot and pace.
• Coffee or tea—so bring your own if you love a quick caffeine boost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals mostly to those who want a personalized, relaxed experience with fewer crowds. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group, family, or a partner who appreciates a calm, scenic journey. If you’re keen on capturing photos early in the day, avoiding the crowds at the Twelve Apostles makes this an especially good choice.

Travelers who value knowledgeable guides and detailed stories about the area will also find this appealing. However, those expecting a perfectly smooth booking process might want to double-check their reservation details or consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more intimate way to see the Great Ocean Road, especially if avoiding the crowds is a priority, this tour offers a good balance of highlights and comfort. The early start at the Twelve Apostles is a clear advantage, giving you the chance to see this icon without the crowds, and the small group size makes for a more relaxed, flexible day.

While there are some concerns about booking accuracy, the overall experience—guided by knowledgeable locals, with all entry fees included—delivers a memorable journey through one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines. The stops are well-chosen, offering a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural landmarks.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, want a relaxed pace, and value personalized attention over large bus crowds. If that sounds like your style, it’s definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops like Loch Ard Gorge, Kennett River, and Otway National Park are suitable for children who enjoy nature and wildlife. Keep in mind that the full day might be long for very young kids.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 11 travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience compared to larger coach tours.

Are all entry fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Razorback are included in the price.

Can I see the Twelve Apostles without the crowds?
Yes, this tour starts early, so you’ll visit the Apostles before most other travelers arrive, giving you better photo opportunities and a quieter experience.

What’s the duration of the entire tour?
Approximately 12 hours, from early morning to late afternoon, including stops and drives.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, with time allocated for you to eat in Apollo Bay or bring your own snacks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, sunscreen, water, and maybe a hat. A light jacket may help in cooler weather.

Are there any optional stops?
Yes, depending on weather and timing, the tour might include visits to Split Point Lighthouse or a chocolate factory.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking, but the tour doesn’t specify accessibility details. It’s best to inquire directly if mobility is a concern.

How reliable is the booking process?
One reviewer mentioned booking issues, so confirm your reservation details carefully. Double-check your booking if possible.

This tour offers a compelling way to see the Great Ocean Road with fewer crowds and more personal attention. It’s a good pick for travelers prioritizing scenic beauty, a relaxed pace, and a small-group experience, even if it requires some diligence with booking.