Discover the untamed beauty of the Great Ocean Road at Wildlife Wonders. Join a knowledgeable conservationist guide and witness wildlife thriving in a breathtaking natural setting by the ocean.
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Additional service & facility | Barrier free |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Forest bathing, Eco-tourism |
| Transport | Walking |
The Wildlife Wonders experience is a 1.4 km, 75-minute guided tour along a gently sloping and meandering path. The path is formed with a gentle gradient which can be managed by people of all fitness levels. It is suitable for tough prams and is wheelchair friendly. Please notify Wildlife Wonders of any accessibility requirements when booking.
We recommend wearing comfortable, enclosed walking shoes. In summer we recommend bringing sunscreen and wearing a hat.
We recommend visitors arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the tour. The Great Ocean Road is often busy, and travel times can be longer than anticipated. If running late, please call ahead so options can be discussed. All efforts will be made to accommodate visitors on subsequent tours, but this cannot be guaranteed
The Great Ocean Walk offers varying levels of difficulty across its sections. Some parts feature gentle terrain suitable for casual walkers, while others involve steeper ascents, descents, and uneven paths, requiring a moderate to good level of fitness. It's advisable to research specific sections to match your fitness level and experience, ensuring an enjoyable journey.
Currently, eight of the original limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles remain standing. Natural erosion continually reshapes this iconic coastline, leading to the collapse of some stacks over time. Visitors can observe these magnificent formations from various viewing platforms located at the main Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.
Popular highlights of the Great Ocean Walk include the stretches offering breathtaking views of the 12 Apostles, such as the segment leading to Gibson Steps or the walk around Princetown. Other notable sections feature diverse landscapes, from lush forests to dramatic clifftop vistas, providing unique coastal flora and fauna observation opportunities. Each portion offers distinct rewards.
The shoulder seasons, typically autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), are often considered ideal for visiting the Great Ocean Road. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and you'll experience fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Winter (June to August) can offer dramatic stormy seascapes and whale-watching opportunities, though it is cooler and wetter.
To fully appreciate the Great Ocean Road and its significant attractions, a 2-to-3-day itinerary is highly recommended. This allows ample time to stop at key viewpoints like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge, explore charming coastal towns, and engage with specific experiences such as a guided wildlife tour at Wildlife Wonders without feeling rushed.
Designated parking areas are available at various access points along the Great Ocean Walk. Key starting or ending points like Apollo Bay, Blanket Bay, Cape Otway, Johanna Beach, Ryans Den, and Gibson Steps often have dedicated car parks. It's recommended to check official park information or local visitor centers for specific parking locations and any associated fees for your chosen section.
At Wildlife Wonders, visitors can observe a range of Australian wildlife living freely in their natural, cage-free habitats. This includes iconic species such as koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, potoroos, bandicoots, and various native bird species. Guided tours led by conservationists provide insightful information about these animals and their unique ecosystem, offering memorable close-up encounters.
The most common and flexible way to travel between the Twelve Apostles and Apollo Bay is by car, offering the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road. While public transport options are limited in this more remote area, some private tour operators or shuttle services might offer transfers. Planning ahead or booking a guided tour that includes transfers is advisable for convenience.