Dandenong Ranges Tour | Melbourne
Head only 1 hour east of Melbourne, and explore the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Let us show you what the area has to offer, and experience nature at its best.
- Visit the magnificent rainforest full of lush greenery and exotic wildlife
- See the mighty Mountain Ash trees
- Stroll through some of the local shops in the quaint villages
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Transportation method | Hotel transfer |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Forest bathing, Eco-tourism |
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
Head east out of Melbourne and our first stop will be Grant’s Picnic Ground! Your first activity of the day will be a short stroll through the magnificent rainforest. Remember to look out for the elusive Lyrebird. You will need to be quiet. After the forest walk sit down to Devonshire Tea with Wattle Seed Scones while you take in the splendours of our natural wonderland. The forest is home to a variety of birds life including the parrot and the lyrebird, so make sure to look out for them. We then head to Puffing Billy to drop off the passengers that opted in for the train ride. After Puffing Billy we take a slow drive through the remainder of the forest stopping to visit one of the quaint villages along the way. Here you will have time to get some lunch or just browse through the local shops. We then return directly back to Melbourne
— Important Info —
- Depart Melbourne at 7:00 am
- Note: Pickup starts 45 minutes prior to departure time
- Arrive in Melbourne at approx 2:00 pm
Interact with friendly parrots
Experience being with nature on this tour
Purchase Notice
- What to bring:
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Rain jacket (just in case)
- Warm clothes (just in case)
- Camera (spare battery and memory card – you will need it)
- Phone charger and cable
- Comfortable walking shoes
- For free hotel pickups, please note your hotel when booking
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 5 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Route and stops might vary due to unforeseen circumstances
Tours may change or be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances
The service provider does not take responsibility for any injuries sustained whilst on our tour; all activities done at own risk
The service provider does not take responsibility for the loss or damage of any personal property
Travel insurance for all passengers is highly recommended
All passengers, including children need to have a seat. (Baby seats available on request)
For free hotel pickups, please note your hotel when booking
Cancellation Policy
- For cancellations made at least 22 day(s) prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 10% will apply
- For cancellations made 8 to 21 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 25% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–7 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
The Dandenong Ranges are beautiful year-round. Spring (September-November) offers blooming flowers and mild weather, while autumn (March-May) showcases vibrant foliage. Summer (December-February) is ideal for outdoor activities, and winter (June-August) provides a mystical, misty atmosphere, especially appealing for forest walks.
While heavy snowfall is rare, the higher elevations of the Dandenong Ranges can occasionally experience light snow during the colder winter months, typically from June to August. This usually results in a dusting rather than deep snow, adding a unique charm to the forest landscape.
From Melbourne, you can take a Metro train (Belgrave Line) to Belgrave Station. From Belgrave, local buses operate within the Dandenong Ranges, connecting to various villages and attractions like Puffing Billy. Alternatively, joining a guided tour is a convenient option for exploring without personal transport.
The name "Dandenong" is believed to derive from the Aboriginal Wurundjeri language, potentially meaning "high mountains" or "low hills." The area was traditionally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people before European settlement, and the name reflects its geographical characteristics.
The Dandenong Ranges rainforest is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot native birds such as the lyrebird, kookaburra, and various parrots like rosellas. Wallabies and echidnas are also common sightings. Keep an eye out for these unique creatures amidst the lush vegetation.
Yes, the magnificent Mountain Ash trees are widely accessible. Many walking trails and scenic drives throughout the Dandenong Ranges pass through areas where these towering trees, among the tallest flowering plants in the world, can be admired up close. Popular spots include Sherbrooke Forest.
The quaint villages like Sassafras, Olinda, and Belgrave offer unique experiences. Visitors can explore charming local shops, discover artisan crafts, enjoy cozy cafes and restaurants, and stroll through beautiful gardens. These villages provide a delightful contrast to the surrounding natural forests.
The Dandenong Ranges hold deep cultural significance for the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of the land. It served as a vital area for hunting, gathering, and cultural ceremonies, rich in resources and sacred sites, reflecting a long-standing connection to the Country.
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