Sydney: Flying Fox Tour, Australia’s Largest Bats

If you’re anything like us, you probably love discovering unique wildlife encounters when traveling, and this Sydney-based Flying Fox Tour promises just that. It’s a rare chance to see thousands of Australia’s largest bats—the flying foxes—in their natural habitat during daylight hours. We’re here to give you the real scoop on what makes this experience stand out, plus some practical tips to help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

What we really like about this tour is the close-up encounters with the bats—getting within about 10 feet of these impressive creatures is pretty special. The small group size and the professional guide are another big plus, making the experience both informative and personal. Plus, the fact that high-quality zoom cameras are supplied means you can leave with stunning photos—something many wildlife lovers truly appreciate.

A potential consideration is that this is a daytime tour, so if you’re expecting a nocturnal experience or lots of quiet, restful moments, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, since it’s outdoors, you’ll want to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. It’s generally suitable for anyone who’s comfortable walking and being outdoors, but it’s not a tour designed specifically for families with very young children.

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone curious about Australia’s fascinating wildlife. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy learning from passionate guides and capturing memorable photos of animals in action.

Key Points

• Close wildlife encounters: Get within 10 feet of Australia’s largest bats during active daytime hours.
• Expert guide and personalized experience: Small group, friendly guide sharing insightful info.
• High-quality photography equipment: Supplied zoom cameras to help you capture detailed shots.
• Flexible booking options: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Comfortable transport and ease of access: Pickup near Circular Quay makes it simple to join.
• Suitable for outdoor lovers and photography fans: Clear weather and comfortable shoes recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Flying Fox Tour

What Is This Tour All About?

This 3.5-hour experience is the only bat-focused tour in Sydney, led by Perfect Day Sydney. It’s all about witnessing the largest bats in Australia, the flying foxes, in their natural environment during daylight. The tour promises a close, almost eye-level view of these creatures as they climb, squabble, and take flight with impressive wingspans of about 3 feet.

The tour isn’t just about seeing bats—it’s about understanding them. Your guide shares professional photos and plenty of interesting facts, making the experience engaging whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for something different during your Sydney visit.

Starting Point and Transportation

The meeting point is conveniently located near Circular Quay — in front of the Thomas Sutcliffe Mort Statue on Bridge Street. The guide will pick you up in a small white bus (XP48AA), making pickup straightforward if you’re staying downtown or nearby.

The journey to the bat habitat takes about 25 minutes in a comfortable van. After about 75 minutes at the wildlife viewing spot, you’ll return to the starting point, making the overall experience manageable without feeling rushed.

What’s the Itinerary Like?

• Meet at Circular Quay: You’ll gather in front of the Thomas Sutcliffe Mort Statue.
• Bus ride to the site: About 25 minutes to a hidden wildlife viewing area.
• Wildlife viewing: Spend roughly 75 minutes observing the bats in their environment.
• Return trip: About 20 minutes back to the meeting point.

The focus is on wildlife observation—you’ll see the bats climbing trees, fighting, and flying in huge numbers. The guide often shares pro tips for photography, especially since high-zoom cameras are provided free of charge.

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What Will You See and Experience?

During the tour, you’ll get up close to the flying foxes during their most active period. Many reviews highlight how surprisingly active these bats are during the day—climbing, fighting, and even in flight, with many hanging from the trees or fighting over space.

One reviewer mentioned, “There was thousands of these massive bats, very few seemed to be sleeping, hundreds flying around, climbing up the trees and fighting with their neighbors.” This vibrant activity makes for a fascinating scene that’s quite different from the typical night bat experience.

Photography and Wildlife Observation

One of the tour’s standout features is the high-quality zoom cameras supplied to guests. These cameras allow you to capture fine details of the bats, such as their faces, claws, and wingspans. Several reviews mention how helpful these cameras are, and that photos are shared with you afterward at no extra charge.

Even if you prefer to use your own camera or phone, the guide is experienced in helping you get the best shots. Some reviewers noted that, even with rainy weather, the guide’s equipment and tips brought home fantastic images.

Guide and Group Size

Reviews consistently praise the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. “Dave was a great host & guide,” said one reviewer, highlighting his ability to remember names and go beyond expectations. The small group size (usually just a handful of people) makes it easier to ask questions and move around for optimal viewing.

Suitability and Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most outdoor enthusiasts. Since it involves walking and being outdoors, dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. The guide also provides umbrellas, snacks, and water, which adds to the comfort and convenience.

Pricing and Value

Most reviews agree that this tour offers good value. You get a unique wildlife experience, professional photography equipment, and a knowledgeable guide—all included in the price. The option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before makes it a low-risk choice.

What Could Be Better?

For some, the daytime nature of the tour might not be as magical as a nocturnal bat experience. Plus, because it’s outdoors and weather-dependent, if rain or wind are heavy, the viewing might be less optimal. Still, guides are prepared with umbrellas and rain gear.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is especially suited for wildlife lovers, photographers, and curious travelers wanting a close-up look at Australia’s largest bats. It’s perfect if you enjoy small group tours with an engaging guide. While not specifically tailored for families, older children who are comfortable outdoors should enjoy the activity.

It’s also ideal for those interested in nature photography—the supplied zoom cameras and tips help you get incredible shots. If you’re after a less conventional Sydney experience, this tour offers a memorable perspective on Australian wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if children are comfortable outdoors and interested in wildlife. Just keep in mind the tour involves walking and some climbing around wildlife viewing spots.

Do I need prior experience with photography?
Nope. The supplied high-zoom cameras and guide tips make capturing great shots accessible to everyone, even beginners.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather—outdoor clothing, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a hat or rain gear if needed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, guide, high-zoom cameras, and sharing of photos afterward. Snacks and water are also provided.

How active is the wildlife viewing?
Very active. You’ll see bats climbing, fighting, and flying during daylight hours, which is quite unusual and exciting.

How many people are in each group?
It’s a small group, making the experience more personal and flexible.

Will I get to see baby bats?
Many reviews note the presence of baby bats hanging onto their mums, which adds a cute element to the viewing.

Can I do this tour if it’s raining?
Rainy weather is manageable with umbrellas provided. However, very heavy rain might affect the visibility and comfort. The guide is prepared with rain gear and offers a good experience despite the weather.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique wildlife encounter with a focus on Australia’s largest bats, this tour is a solid choice. The combination of a friendly, knowledgeable guide, close-up views, and professional photography options makes it stand out. The small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the overall value for money seems well regarded by past guests.

While it might not be the most traditional Sydney experience, it offers something genuinely different—an up-close look at these fascinating creatures during the day. It’s particularly well-suited for nature enthusiasts, birders, photographers, or anyone wanting a memorable wildlife story to tell.

If you’re okay with outdoor conditions and are curious about Australia’s flying foxes, this tour could well become a highlight of your trip—and a story you’ll tell friends about for years.

You can check availability for your dates here: