The Grampians Tour takes you into the region known as “Gariwerd” by the local Indigenous communities. This is the rugged mountain range to the west of Melbourne. It’s home to kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals living in this beautiful environment. You’ll see the stunning Silverband Falls and mountain views. We’ll take short walks to some of our favourite spots and visit the award-winning Brambuk Cultural Centre to learn about the indigenous people, the land, and the wildlife that make up this special place.
Join Grampian Tours for an unforgettable experience that delves into the Aboriginal culture and fascinating history of the region while taking in the mountain views and native wildlife. Suitable for all fitness levels, these tours give you the chance to explore the landscapes while learning about the traditions of the Aboriginal communities. Walk through ancient trails where the history of the Aboriginal people comes alive and connect with Australia’s Indigenous culture. Join us for an adventure that celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Grampians.
Highlights
- Discover the vibrant local culture at Brambuk Cultural Centre.
- Enjoy lunch in the delightful town of Halls Gap (at your own cost).
- Koala and wildlife spotting
- The Surf Coast offers beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns, and breathtaking coastal views.
- Historic Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
- Overnight in Torquay
- Ferry to Sorrento
- Mornington Peninsula Bathing Boxes
- Australian Wildlife Park
- Cape Woolamai Surf Beach
Grampians One Day Tour Itinerary
Why Grampians?
Join us for a day trip from Melbourne and explore the amazing Grampians National Park. As you walk through this ancient landscape with rugged mountain ranges and sandstone ridges, you’ll feel like you’re in a different era. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour leader, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the awesome scenery and aboriginal history.
Morning Tea in Country Victoria
We’ll depart the city and drive 250km west through the beautiful country of the Victorian Gold Rush. Our first stop will be in a small town where you can learn about the amazing history of mining and have morning tea or coffee.
Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Once in the Grampians National Park, we’ll head to the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Here, you can learn about the creation stories that are special to this area. Take a walk around the centre and keep an eye out for wallabies, emus and echidnas in their natural habitat. You’ll get an insight into the importance of Gariwerd to Indigenous communities.
Reeds Lookout & The Balconies
Reeds Lookout has amazing views of Lake Wartook, the Victoria Valley, and Mount Difficult Range. Next, we’ll walk along a shaded path with gum trees and interesting rock formations to The Balconies. See the Jaws of Death and the majestic views that inspired the Japanese Animation Princess Mononoke.
Hike to the Base of Mackenzie Falls
Mackenzie Falls, the most famous waterfall in Victoria Valley, is next. We’ll hike down to the base and back. See the picturesque waterfall and feel the mist. This hike is 250 steps to and from the base. If you’d prefer a flat walk along the top that’s an option too! If Mackenzie Falls is closed, we’ll replace it with a peaceful walk to Silverband Falls.
Boroka Lookout
Make a photo stop at the beautiful Boroka Lookout. Depending on the weather we may visit Lake Bellfield for a walk around the dam surrounded by mountain scenery.
Kangaroo and Wildlife Spotting
Fun fact: In Halls Gap, lawnmowers are unnecessary, as kangaroos mow the lawn in the evenings! You’ll see various Australian birds like kookaburras and emus, and we’re sure you won’t leave the Grampians without seeing a kangaroo. We may also see echidnas and wallabies.
Return to Melbourne
We’ll head back to the city. The drive from the Grampians takes about 3 hours, with a stop along the way for you to buy dinner (at your own expense). Take a moment to relax and think about the day. You’ll be dropped off back at your original pick up point or near public transport around 8:30pm.
Pricing Options
Price: $165 Adult (13+), $125 Child (6 to 12)
NOTE: Child rates apply from 6yrs to 12yrs old. Not suitable for children under the age of 6yrs old, due to the nature of the tour and safety reasons.
Itinerary is a guideline only and is subject to change without notice.
Keen to visit Grampians in a private group? Want to spend more time completing a certain hike? Contact our charters team today to help make it happen on [email protected].
Pickup Times
Please arrive at your designated pickup location 5–10 minutes before the scheduled time to ensure the tour proceeds smoothly and on time. Here are the pickup times and locations:
- 6:55 AM: Space Hotel, 380 Russell St, Melbourne
- 7:00 AM – Ibis on Therry, 15-21 Therry St, Melbourne
- 7:05 AM: Pegasus Apartments Hotel, 206 A'Beckett St, Melbourne
- 7:10 AM: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne
- 7:15 AM: Windsor Hotel, 111 Spring St, Melbourne (Exclusive to Hotel Guests)
- 7:25 AM: The Savoy Hotel, 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne
- 7:35 AM: Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St, corner of Market St, Melbourne
What To Pack
- Water Bottle - 2L
- Hiking shoes (recommended)
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Prescribed medications
- Camera
- All-weather clothing
- A sense of adventure!
- Binoculars for bird watching
Tour Inclusions
- National Park entry fees
- The driver/guide is friendly and provides informative tour commentary.
- Experienced DriverTour Guide
- Hotel pick up and drop off within the city.
Gallery
What To Bring
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Tropical strength insect repellent
- Swimwear and beach towel
- Refillable water bottle
- Comfortable walking shoes/boots
- Camera
- Money for lunch and snacks (alternatively BYO as we will have an eski onboard for chilled items)
- Small day bag
- Hand sanitiser
Important Notes
- This tour will only depart if we have 8 passengers or more. We will wait until one week before departure to cancel if minimum numbers aren’t met.
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to cultural reasons, seasonal weather changes, operational logistics and accessibility.
- Please email our Reservations Team ([email protected]) at least 48 hours prior to departure to confirm pick-up location and time.
- Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
- COVID-19 – together we can stop the spread, please seek medical attention and stay at home if you are feeling unwell
- Remember to double-check your exciting tour plans with the tour operator! Just ring them at 03 9393 1300 within seven days of your departure.
- Before you embark on your adventure, let the tour perform the operator's pre-existing medical conditions.
Check Availability & Book
FAQ
What to bring and wear?
Comfortable shoes, camera and clothes for the extreme weather conditions. Morning tea and dinner are included, but lunch is at your own expense, so bring some cash for Halls Gap. Bring a full day’s worth of gear and make sure your camera battery is charged for all the incredible scenery and abundance of wildlife.
Are the walks hard?
On our Grampians tours, the walks are moderate. The guide will choose the walks for the group, which may involve uneven terrain and uphill walking. You can stop at any time if you’re not feeling fit enough to continue.
Can I swim at Mackenzie Falls?
Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Mackenzie Falls. But the waterfalls are stunning.
What wildlife will I see?
The Grampians is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, echidnas and wombats.
Is Grampians National Park worth visiting?
Grampians National Park is a famous and heritage-listed site in Australia for its plant and animal life, Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty. You can hike or drive through to take in the stunning views.
When should I visit the Grampians?
Spring is the best time to visit. The park comes alive with wildflowers, the weather is mild and perfect for walking, and the skies are clear for panoramic views from the stunning lookouts.
Can I visit the Grampians in winter?
The tour will visit the main attractions in Grampians National Park, including Mackenzie Falls, The Balconies, Boroka Lookout, and the Brambuk National Park & Cultural Centre.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included in this tour, but we will stop along the way so you can buy food.
