Melbourne to Kangaroo Island Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 11 days

4.5

3 Reviews

Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

On this 11-day Aussie adventure, you’ll discover the everchanging landscapes of the south – from Melbourne to Kangaroo Island.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (5), Lunch (2),
Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights)

Highlights

Hike the beautiful Pinnacle Walk to the summit of Hanging Rock and discover sweeping views and interesting rock formations made famous by the Peter Weir film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’.
Visit a social enterprise – Wildlife Wonders – and join a conservationist guide to discover the lush fern gullies, eucalypt woodlands and spectacular ocean views of the Otways region.
Explore Budj Bim Cultural Landscape with a Gunditijmara guide to learn about First Nations culture first-hand, discover the unique volcanic landscape and dig into a bush tucker grazing plate.
Tick driving the Great Ocean Road, marvelling at the 12 Apostles and hiking through Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park off your bucket list, because this road trip does it all.
Spend a morning with some of the island’s most delightful creatures, the colony of sea lions that have resided at Seal Bay for hundreds of years.

Trip Details

Duration

11 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, Train

Guide Language

English

Starts

Hanging Rock Reserve to Daylesford to Ballarat, Australia

Finishes

Adelaide, Australia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanging Rock Reserve to Daylesford to Ballarat

Welcome to Melbourne! Or Narrm, in the language of the Wurundjeri people, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Melbourne is now located. Melbourne is the unofficial foodie capital of Australia, most famous for its fine-brewed specialty coffee. It's recommended that you arrive a few extra days before your adventure starts if you want to experience all this city has to offer. Today, you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers at 8 am for a welcome meeting. Then, start your journey along the Great Southern Touring Route. Your first stop today is Hanging Rock Reserve for the Pinnacle Walk and views over the Grampians and Halls Gap. Your leader will guide you to the summit and share the area’s importance to local First Nations groups. Next, drive to Daylesford to grab lunch and if it’s Sunday, wander the local fresh produce market. Your next destination is the historic goldfield town of Ballarat, where you’ll stay tonight. Perhaps visit Sovereign Hill or the Art Gallery of Ballarat, with the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Included Activities:

Hanging Rock - Summit Walk
Daylesford - Sunday Market

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Apollo Bay

Depart the highlands and say hello to the coast on the drive south this morning. Arrive in Anglesea and begin your drive along the Great Ocean Road in Eastern Maar country, which was recently returned to its Traditional Custodians in Victoria's first native title in a decade. Once you reach Apollo Bay, you’ll enjoy a guided experience at Wildlife Wonders – a social enterprise operated by the Conservation Ecology Centre working to develop and deliver solutions to the most urgent conservation challenges in the Otways region. Learn the secrets of the bush from your conservationist guide and spot local wildlife like koalas and wallabies and, if you’re lucky, a potoroo or bandicoot. Wildlife Wonders invests 100 per cent of profits into vital research and conservation projects to save local threatened species. After your visit, continue to your accommodation in the laidback Apollo Bay, where you’ll have free time for the rest of the day.

Included Activities:

Apollo Bay - Wildlife Wonders Guided Tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Port Campbell to Warrnambool

Today, you’ll discover why this stretch of road is known as Australia’s finest road trip. Travel from Apollo Bay to Warrnambool, taking time to stop and enjoy the Great Ocean Road’s well-loved scenery. There are plenty of lookouts and beach walks (if the weather permits) to break up the drive today, where you can get up close to the cliff views and breathe in the fresh ocean air. However, the highlight of today’s drive is the 12 Apostles. Created by the constant erosion from ocean swells and swirling winds that began approximately 10 to 20 million years ago, these rock stacks rise up to 45 m from the ocean. Spot the remaining seven apostles that are left standing before you continue to your hotel in Warrnambool.

Included Activities:

Great Ocean Road - Scenic Drive
Great Ocean Road - Twelve Apostles

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Budj Bim National Park to Halls Gap

Buckle up for another day on the great open road as you set your sights for Budj Bim – the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Victoria outside the Royal Exhibition Building. Within Gunditjmara Country, Budj Bim is both culturally and geologically significant. Learn about its history, bushland and wildlife on a landscape walking tour led by a Gunditjmara cultural guide. You’ll also hear about the local Creation Story and how the Gunditjmara people are considered to have made Australia’s earliest and largest aquaculture venture. After your guided walk, enjoy a grazing board at the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre & Café for lunch, where you can try all-Australian ingredients like grilled kooyang (eel), grilled macadamia nuts, pickled vegetables, kangaroo, emu and other local bush foods. With a belly full of bush tucker, hit the road to Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, where you’ll have the rest of the evening free to explore.

Included Activities:

Budj Bim National Park - Bush Foods Grazing Board
Budj Bim National Park - Cultural Landscape Walking Tour with Local Aboriginal Guide

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

Be sure to fuel up at breakfast today for a full day of exploring Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. You can expect to see waterfalls, sandstone ridges, mountains and ancient rock art sites on your walks today. Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest number of rock art paintings and shelters in Southern Australia. Today’s walks will feature these sites and likely introduce you to local wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. With a number of walking trails to choose from, your leader will pick the best, considering weather, track conditions and group ability. This evening, kick your feet up and relax after a full day of walking.

Included Activities:

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Day Walks

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Stawell to Adelaide

Enjoy breakfast with your fellow travellers before a short drive to Stawell. Here, you’ll visit Bunjil’s Cave – a significant cultural site in Australia and one of the most prominent rock art sites in southern Victoria. In local First Nations culture, Bunjil was the main Dreaming Being of south-eastern Australia. It’s believed that he produced the natural features of the landscapes, from the rolling mountains to the peaceful open ranges. He also gave each tribe their country and created the laws, customs and rights. Then continue the drive to Adelaide, making a stop along the way at a winery where you’ll sample some local varietals. Arrive in Adelaide, or Tandanya in the language of The Kaurna people, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Adelaide is now located, in the late afternoon and check into your hotel for the night. Enjoy a free night before the next leg of your journey starts tomorrow.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Adelaide

As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will likely change at this location. This stage of your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at your hotel in Adelaide at 9 am where you’ll link up with your local leader and the other travellers joining you on this part of your adventure. Find out what’s in store over the coming days, then board your transfer bound for Cape Jervis (approximately 2 hours), from where you’ll jump aboard a ferry and travel to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island (approximately 45 minutes). Be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins swimming alongside the ferry! From the ferry landing, it's a short walk to your hotel. Drop your luggage, then perhaps get to know your group over lunch on the island. In the afternoon, get your first taste of the island’s unique nature by joining your leader and heading out onto the Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail, positioned in the dunes overlooking Hog’s Bay. Keep an eye out for wildlife! This evening you'll visit the Penneshaw Penguin Centre for an evening walk to search for the world’s smallest variety of penguins.

Included Activities:

Kangaroo Island - Penguin tour
Kangaroo Island - Penneshaw Sculpture Trail

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Penneshaw

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third-largest island and a paradise for wildlife lovers. It’s not just kangaroos you can find here – wallabies, sea lions, echidnas and sheep live here too! This morning, travel to Dudley Peninsula, where you’ll visit a local farm, see how sheep are shorn and meet the owner’s super sweet kelpie dogs. Then, stop by the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse – the oldest lighthouse in South Australia. After, visit a family-owned eucalyptus oil refinery and a honey farm, before heading to the Kangaroo Island Gallery – a community gallery specifically for the promotion, encouragement and exposure of local artists and craftspeople. Tonight, if there’s time maybe visit a local winery and enjoy a glass of shiraz or chardonnay before heading to Kingscote for the night.

Included Activities:

Kangaroo Island - Full-day trip to Dudley Peninsula
Kangaroo Island - Cape Willoughby Lighthouse
Kangaroo Island - Sheep Shearing & Sheep Dog Experience
Kangaroo Island - Honey Farm
Kangaroo Island - Eucalyptus Oil Distillery
Kangaroo Island - KI Community Gallery

Optional Activities:

Kangaroo Island – American River Prospect Hill - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Kingscote

After breakfast, swing by Salt Lagoon to snap some pictures of this scenic spot, then continue towards Emu Bay Beach. Spend some time exploring the white sand, then beach hop over to the secluded Stokes Bay – a gorgeous spot for a swim and voted Australia's most beautiful beach in 2023. Explore the Stokes Bay region, which is still recovering from the early 2022 bushfires which damaged much of the island. After an afternoon on the beach, you’ll return to Kingscote and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Included Activities:

Kangaroo Island - Full Day Trip to Emu Bay & Stokes Bay

Optional Activities:

Kangaroo Island - Lavender Farm - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Kingscote

Start the day with a visit to Seal Bay. There are no actual seals here, but there are plenty of sea lions! The sea lion colony you see today has existed at Seal Bay for thousands of years. Join an up close and personal ranger-led wildlife experience which will allow you to observe the lives of these endearing creatures as you watch them swim, play and bask in the sun. Next up is something really special – head to Vivonne Bay, which is not only one of the most stunning beaches on Kangaroo Island but the whole of Australia. Venture into the Flinders Chase National Park and come face to face with the aptly named Remarkable Rocks, made up of naturally sculpted granite boulders. You’ll also check out the impressive Admirals Arch and take some time to explore the park before heading back to Kingscote.

Included Activities:

Kangaroo Island - Flinders Chase NP Incl Remarkable Rocks & Admiral's Arch
Kangaroo Island - Seal Bay Wildlife Experience with local ranger
Kangaroo Island - Vivonne Bay

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Adelaide

Start the day by heading to American River, where you’ll find a schooner boat first built in 1803 called 'Independence'. Learn about the boat’s history and see how it’s being rebuilt, then take a scenic walk through coastal scrub towards the remains of an old fish cannery – keep an eye out for the rare and striking glossy-black cockatoos along the way. Get ready to say goodbye to Kangaroo Island as you make the drive back to Penneshaw and catch the ferry back to the mainland. Dock in Cape Jervis for your trip back to Adelaide, where your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to stay in Adelaide longer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Included Activities:

Kangaroo Island - American River ‘Rebuild Independence’ Boathouse Visit
Kangaroo Island - American River bushwalk

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,870

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 11 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

On this 11-day Aussie adventure, you’ll discover the everchanging landscapes of the south – from Melbourne to Kangaroo Island.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 18 Apr 2027

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Chris

Traveled, March 2025

04/06/2025

A truly exceptional trip that provided a wonderful first introduction to Australia. Made possible by the two brilliant tour leaders, Geof and Alvaro, across the two stages of the trip, this adventure provides a fantastic blend of natural beauty, exploration and local culture. 10/10.

4.5

Anita

Traveled, January 2024

02/08/2024

Great Ocean Road was one of the best tours I have done. Our leader - Simon, was very knowledgeable, experienced and enthusiastic. Everyday he done extra mile to ensure we all have best holidays ever. Unfortunately Kangarroo Island guide - was very opposite. Her lack of knowledge, experience and willingness to actually learn for us makes me wonder how much i actually have missed. If the group wasn’t such a amazing, I would definitely regret taking this trip.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now