Puffing Billy & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne | Victoria
Step aboard the Puffing Billy steam train for a scenic ride through the lush rainforests of the Dandenong Ranges!
- Stroll through the serene grounds of the Grants Picnic Reserve
- Take a ride through the rainforest on the Puffing Billy Steam Train
- Meet adorable Australian wildlife at the Healesville Sanctuary
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Forest bathing, Eco-tourism |
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
Choo Choo Choose this tour!
Experience the magic of the past as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the lush rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges on board the legendary Puffing Billy steam train. Behold the breathtaking vistas and breathe in the fresh, crisp air, taking in the beauty of the historic locomotive as it chugs along on its hour-long expedition from Belgrave to Lakeside. And if that’s not enough, after the ride, wander through a wildlife sanctuary where you can encounter some of Australia’s most beloved creatures face-to-face, including koalas, kangaroos, and soaring birds of prey. This adventure will transport you out of the hustle and bustle of city life and into the serene magic of the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley’s natural wonders.
Duration: ~9 hours
Pause for a delightful break at Grants Picnic Reserve in Sherbrooke Forest. Wander amid majestic Mountain Ash, & lush fern gullies. Encounter vivid rosellas, galahs, cockatoos, and perhaps a lyrebird. Tasmanian Devils, and of course, Koalas!
Enjoy a 1-hour journey through lush rainforests, embracing the time-honoured tradition of dangling your legs out of the train.
Encounter the fascinating Australian wildlife up close and personal at Healesville Sanctuary Wildlife Park
Purchase Notice
- Please refer to voucher for final confirmation of pickup location and time
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Please refer to the voucher for the exact time and location for the pick-up service
Please note that changes to the booking cannot be made within 48 hours of departure
FAQ
The Puffing Billy is renowned for being a historic narrow-gauge steam railway, offering a nostalgic journey through the lush Dandenong Ranges. Its fame comes from the unique experience of dangling legs out of the open-sided carriages as it traverses picturesque bridges and dense eucalyptus forests. It's a preserved railway operating on its original mountain track, providing a glimpse into Australia's railway heritage and a memorable scenic adventure.
Visitors to the Puffing Billy steam train can immerse themselves in a unique vintage rail journey. The highlight is the opportunity to sit with legs dangling out of the carriage windows, experiencing the passing rainforest scenery up close. The journey takes you over trestle bridges and through fern gullies, providing stunning photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. It's an iconic Australian experience, especially popular for families and those seeking a charming, scenic escape.
The Puffing Billy steam train is situated in the Dandenong Ranges, approximately an hour's drive east of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Its main departure station is Belgrave. The railway line stretches through beautiful forested areas, offering picturesque views and a refreshing escape from the city. The entire railway runs between Belgrave and Gembrook, passing through several small towns.
You can conveniently book tickets for the Puffing Billy steam train ride through an online travel platform. Booking through KKday allows for a streamlined process, often providing comprehensive tour packages that include transportation from Melbourne and visits to other attractions, making your planning hassle-free. This ensures your spot on the popular train and simplifies coordinating your entire day trip.
To reach the Puffing Billy departure station in Belgrave by public transport, you can take a Metro train from Flinders Street Station in Melbourne directly to Belgrave Station. The journey typically takes about 60-70 minutes on the Belgrave Line. Once you arrive at Belgrave Station, the Puffing Billy station is just a short walk away, clearly signposted. This is a convenient and direct way to access the attraction without a car.
The typical duration of the Puffing Billy steam train ride varies depending on the route chosen. A popular round trip from Belgrave to Lakeside takes approximately 2 hours, including a stop at Lakeside. If you travel the full line from Belgrave to Gembrook, a round trip can be longer. Passengers can choose to disembark at various stations to explore the surrounding Dandenong Ranges.
The Puffing Billy is a historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive. Its key features include its original open-sided carriages, allowing passengers to sit with their legs dangling over the side, providing an unobstructed view of the surrounding rainforest. It operates on a 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) narrow-gauge track, which was originally built to serve the local communities in the early 20th century. Its authentic steam engine operation is a major draw, offering a nostalgic and immersive experience.
At Healesville Sanctuary, visitors can expect to encounter a wide array of native Australian wildlife in a natural bushland setting. This includes iconic animals such as koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and platypuses. The sanctuary is dedicated to wildlife conservation and often features interactive exhibits and keeper talks, allowing for close-up views and educational opportunities about Australia's unique fauna.
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