Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Reverse Tour London Bridge Wildlife

Introduction

Our review focuses on the Melbourne Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with London Bridge and Wildlife, a popular choice for travelers eager to see Australia’s iconic coast without the rush or crowds. This tour, offered by Wild OZ Adventures, combines breathtaking scenery, adorable wildlife encounters, and a thoughtfully reversed itinerary that promises better photo opportunities and fewer fellow travelers.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the expert guides who bring the journey to life with engaging stories and local insights, and the careful itinerary planning that avoids the usual crowds at busy spots like the Twelve Apostles. However, it’s a long day — expect 12 to 13 hours of travel and sightseeing — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with an early start and a full schedule. If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and a mix of natural beauty with cultural highlights, this tour will likely hit the right notes.

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Key Points

• Reverse route helps beat crowds and provides ideal lighting for photos
• Includes unique stop at London Bridge, often skipped by other tours
• Offers a balance of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and coastal towns
• Suitable for various budget preferences with different group sizes
• Guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous approach
• Long but well-organized day, ideal for those who enjoy full-day adventures

The Route and Its Highlights

This tour is a comprehensive way to see the best of the Great Ocean Road, but what truly sets it apart is the reverse itinerary. Instead of starting with the Twelve Apostles early in the morning, this tour begins with a special stop at London Bridge, offering a less crowded experience and capturing better photographs under the afternoon light. This small change in route can make a noticeable difference in how relaxed and rewarding your day feels.

London Bridge – A Hidden Gem

Most day tours don’t visit London Bridge, making it a real highlight here. This natural rock formation, famous for its dramatic arches and interesting history, is a photo opportunity and a peaceful spot for a quick walk or some quiet reflection. As one reviewer noted, the stop here is “a hidden gem most day tours don’t visit,” which keeps it feeling special and less congested.

Loch Ard Gorge

Next, the tour takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, a site with stunning cliffs and clear blue waters. It’s a top choice for photos and short walks, and you’ll appreciate the timed visit that avoids the mid-morning crowds. According to reviews, the stops here are “beautiful,” with plenty of opportunities to wander along the scenic trails or relax on the beach.

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The Twelve Apostles

Of course, no trip to the Great Ocean Road would be complete without the 12 Apostles. On this tour, you’ll visit during the afternoon, when the lighting is perfect for photography — a common theme in reviews praising the tour for avoiding the busy morning rush. You’ll get ample free time to admire these towering limestone stacks, take pictures, and enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas.

Loch Ard Gorge and Scenic Views

As you continue, the journey passes by Great Otway National Park, offering scenic vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife. The tour includes a “secret stop” — a wildlife viewing point where you’re likely to see koalas, kangaroos, and parrots. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ success in spotting animals in their natural habitat, adding a genuine wildlife experience to the day.

Apollo Bay – A Coastal Break

Midday, the tour reaches Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a late lunch around 3 PM, with many opting for fresh seafood or local specialties. Reviewers often mention the leisurely pace in this town as a highlight, providing a much-needed break during the long day.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View

In the afternoon, the tour stops at the Memorial Arch, a historic landmark commemorating the construction of the Great Ocean Road. It’s a quick photo stop, but one that offers a chance to reflect on the history behind this spectacular drive.

The Transportation and Group Sizes

This tour offers three options: a Classic Coach, a Mid-Size Coach, and a Premium Small-Group Mercedes Benz Van. Each suits different preferences, but the key takeaway is comfort and intimacy. The small-group option (limited to 15 guests) gets rave reviews for a more personalized experience, while the Mid-Size Coach (maximum 35 guests) provides a good balance of price and space.

What’s in the vehicle?

All options feature air-conditioned coaches, with the small-group tour providing a more relaxed, less crowded environment. Many reviewers mention the cleanliness, comfort, and safety of the coaches, noting that good-quality transportation impacts the overall enjoyment.

Guides and Commentary

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They not only share facts about the scenery but also engage with the group, making it a lively and informative day. Many reviews highlight guides who show wildlife in the wild, and some even share local stories that add personality to the trip.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

One of the main draws of this tour is its wildlife spotting. The tours are timed to maximize your chances of seeing koalas, kangaroos, and parrots, especially during the secret wildlife stop. Reviews are full of praise for guides who successfully find animals in their natural environment, turning a sightseeing trip into a memorable wildlife safari.

Wildlife in Focus

Expect to see koalas lounging in trees, kangaroos hopping across open fields, and native parrots filling the skies with color and noise. Many travelers have expressed delight at seeing animals in the wild, which adds an authentic touch to this scenic journey.

Food and Dining Options

While the tour price doesn’t include lunch, the schedule allows for a late lunch around 3 PM in Apollo Bay. Many travelers have enjoyed fresh seafood and local dishes, making it a relaxing and tasty break during the long day. For those wanting to keep snacks handy, bringing some energy bars or fruit is recommended, especially since the tour is quite packed with stops.

The Value for Money

At $46 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the length, the guided commentary, wildlife encounters, and the chance to visit less crowded spots. Many reviewers note that the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides make this a worthwhile expense, especially when compared to the cost of private transport or self-drive.

Long days can be tiring, but the comfortable transportation and timely stops help keep fatigue at bay. The inclusion of optional helicopter rides at extra cost offers an even more memorable perspective if you’re looking to splurge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who value a guided experience, want to see key sights without the hassle of driving, and enjoy wildlife viewing and photo opportunities. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Melbourne wanting a comprehensive, yet manageable, introduction to the coast. Because it covers a lot in one day, it’s ideal for those who don’t mind a full, energetic schedule.

Travelers who prefer a more intimate setting will appreciate the small-group option, while budget-conscious travelers will find the classic and mid-size tours a good fit. However, if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer a more leisurely pace, the long duration might be a consideration.

The Sum Up

In all, the Melbourne Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with London Bridge and Wildlife offers a thorough, well-organized way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines. The clever reverse route means fewer crowds, better lighting for photos, and a more relaxed atmosphere at key stops. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, travelers rave about wildlife sightings, scenic views, and the overall value.

This tour is a fantastic pick for those wanting a full day of natural beauty, wildlife, and coastal charm without the stress of planning or driving themselves. It’s especially appealing to those who love capturing photos in prime conditions and want to learn about Australia’s natural environment from passionate guides.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and local flavor at a reasonable price, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure for a day packed with unforgettable sights and stories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes air-conditioned coach transportation, wildlife viewing opportunities, and visits to key sights like Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, and London Bridge.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a late lunch around 3 PM in Apollo Bay, which many travelers enjoy. Bringing snacks is also recommended.

What are the different group options?
You can choose from a Classic Coach, a Mid-Size Coach (up to 35 guests), or a Premium Small-Group Mercedes Benz Van (up to 15 guests). The small group provides a more intimate experience.

How long is the tour?
Expect a long day, approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting early around 7-8 AM and finishing late afternoon or early evening.

Is wildlife viewing reliable?
Yes, many reviews mention guides who successfully spot koalas, kangaroos, and parrots, especially during designated wildlife stops.

Can I join the tour with a pickup?
Yes, pickups are offered in Melbourne CBD, but note that St Kilda Road is not included due to its remote location.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, it can be enjoyable for families comfortable with full-day outings. Unfortunately, wheelchair users may find this experience unsuitable.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and some walking.

In sum, this tour is a reliable way to experience the scenic beauty and wildlife of the Great Ocean Road with a careful balance of comfort, insight, and authentic moments. Whether you’re snapping photos at the Twelve Apostles or spotting a koala in the wild, you’ll come away with memories worth cherishing.

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