Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and craving a straightforward way to experience one of the world’s most famous coastal drives — plus some wild Australian animals — this Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour might catch your eye. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours, I’ll tell you this one packs a lot into a day, mostly well and with a good vibe for young adventurers.

What I really like about this tour is that it offers private transport with a small group (max 18 people), which keeps the trip feeling personal and manageable. Plus, you get to see iconic sights like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Loch Otway National Park, all while potentially spotting koalas and kangaroos in the wild — something quite a few reviews emphasize as a highlight.

On the flip side, it’s a long day, clocking in around 12 hours, so be prepared for a lot of riding and walking. It’s also geared toward young travelers, backpackers, and students, so if you’re older or looking for a more relaxed pace, this might not be your best fit.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a cost-effective, lively day trip that hits the main scenic and wildlife highlights of the coast without breaking the bank or sacrificing the social aspect.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just over $90 makes this a good value for such an action-packed day.
• Small group size ensures a friendly, less rushed experience and easier group management.
• Multiple photo stops mean you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture the scenery.
• Wildlife encounters with koalas and kangaroos are a major bonus, often highlighted in reviews.
• Expert guides keep the day engaging, informative, and lively.
• Long but fulfilling day, perfect for those who want a deep dive into the coast’s highlights in one go.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Preparation and Pickup

Starting bright and early at 7:00 am, you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers at Melbourne pickup points. The tour is designed for young backpackers and travelers aged 18-35, which means the vibe tends to be casual and energetic — perfect for anyone looking to make new friends on the road. The small group size (up to 18 people) means you won’t get lost in a crowd, and the intimate setting helps create a more relaxed atmosphere, whether you’re traveling solo or with friends.

The Transport and Pace

The transport is private, so no worries about cramped buses or crowded vans. This allows for more comfort during the long day. Expect a pretty full schedule, but with frequent stops, giving you chances to stretch, relax, and take photos. The driver, who often earns praise in reviews, is not just a driver but also a guide who shares interesting facts and stories about Victoria and Australian culture, making the long drive almost feel like part of the adventure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Now, let’s walk through what makes each stop special — and the potential downsides.

Port Campbell National Park & The Twelve Apostles

This is the star of the show, and it’s easy to see why. The limestone formations carved by erosion over millions of years are truly breathtaking. You’ll have about an hour here at the 12 Apostles, giving you time to snap some photos from various viewpoints and soak in the scenery. The harsh weather conditions from the Southern Ocean are what shaped these iconic towers, making each view a dramatic reminder of nature’s power.

Reviews often mention how impressive these formations are — one traveler called it “an amazing limestone cliff face” — but keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, sometimes cloudy or rainy, which might affect visibility and photos. Still, even in less-than-ideal weather, the rugged beauty remains.

The Razorback & Gibson’s Steps

Next, you’ll see The Razorback, a jagged rock formation that’s as awe-inspiring as it sounds, and Gibson’s Steps, where you’ll descend a staircase carved into sandstone to explore the beach below. Both sites offer fantastic photo opportunities, and the steps reveal a different perspective of the cliffs.

Some reviews note that these are quick stops, so if you’re a serious photographer, you may want to be ready early. The free admission here means no extra costs, which adds value to the experience.

Loch Ard Gorge & Apollo Bay

Loch Ard Gorge is a favorite for many, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and historical shipwreck story. It offers a tranquil spot for a walk and some reflection. The hour here tends to go quickly, but it’s enough to appreciate the rugged beauty.

Afterward, the tour spends about an hour in Apollo Bay — a charming seaside village ideal for a lunch break (own expense). The scenery here is picture-perfect, with water just steps away from cafes and shops. Many reviews mention how relaxing and picturesque this stop is.

Wildlife Encounters: Kennett River, Koalas & Kangaroos

The wildlife stop at Kennett River is frequently highlighted as a highlight — people love seeing koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. Some guests mention that their guides go out of their way to find animals and even bring special zoom cameras to ensure good pictures, which really enhances the experience.

Keep in mind, though, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Some reviews rave about seeing multiple animals, while others note that it can be hit or miss. Still, with knowledgeable guides, your chances are pretty good if you’re patient and lucky.

The Lorne Pier & Fairhaven Beach

The Lorne Pier offers panoramic views, perfect for photos and birdwatching, while Fairhaven Beach provides a long stretch of golden sand, ideal for a quick walk and some fresh sea air. Both stops are brief but memorable.

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch & Final Photos

The tour ends at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway, where you’ll get that iconic shot next to the sign, a perfect way to wrap up the day. The 10-minute stop is quick, but it’s a must-have photo opportunity.

The Day in Perspective

This tour’s itinerary is quite full, with many stops packed into a 12-hour window. It means you’ll get a broad overview of the coast, with many highlights, but it’s definitely a fast-paced experience. The reviews often reflect this — some mention the long day and suggest that a two-day trip might be more relaxed if you prefer a slower pace.

The Guide Experience

Multiple reviewers praise the guides — calling them “friendly,” “knowledgeable,” and “hilarious.” They’re key to making the day enjoyable, keeping the energy high, answering questions, and sharing insights. One review even mentioned that the guide brought a professional zoom camera to help with animal photos, which shows their dedication.

Value for Money

At about $92.52 per person, this tour offers a good deal considering the length of the trip, the multiple highlights, and the inclusions like the majority of admission tickets. The reviews consistently mention that the value is high, especially compared to the amount of scenery, wildlife, and local knowledge packed into the day.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: The tour is dependent on good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.
• Physical fitness: Moderate is enough — you’ll be walking at each stop but nothing too strenuous.
• Group size: Small groups make it easier to connect and get personalized attention.
• Age range: Designed for 18-35, so expect a younger, energetic crowd.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits young travelers, backpackers, students, or anyone on a budget who wants to see the main sights of the Great Ocean Road in one day. If you’re okay with a long, busy day and love the idea of a social, lively atmosphere, this is a great pick.

It’s also a solid choice if wildlife sightings are a priority, since many reviews mention lucky encounters with koalas and kangaroos. If you prefer a more relaxed, less rushed experience with plenty of time to explore at your own pace, you might want to look for a longer, less packed tour.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from several hostels in Melbourne, making it convenient to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day trip.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 18, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Is this suitable for travelers outside the 18-35 age range?
The tour is designed primarily for ages 18-35, so if you’re outside this range, the vibe might not be as suited to your preferences.

What’s included in the price?
Most admission tickets for stops like the Twelve Apostles and Gibson’s Steps are included. The tour also features stopovers at key scenic spots, and you can expect friendly guidance.

How is the weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I see wildlife?
While sightings of koalas and kangaroos are common and often a highlight, they are not guaranteed, but guides usually do their best to find and photograph animals.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a value-packed, energetic day exploring the highlights of the Great Ocean Road with a friendly guide and a small group, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for young backpackers or solo travelers looking to mingle and share an adventure. The combination of stunning coastal scenery and wildlife encounters makes for memorable photos and stories.

That said, be prepared for a long day on the road and a tight schedule — it’s fast, but it covers a lot. If you prefer a more laid-back pace, consider a longer or multi-day option. But for those wanting to tick off the main sights on a budget and with new friends, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

Happy travels, and enjoy the wild, scenic beauty of Australia’s coast!