wildlife wonders, otways
/Only 5km outside of Apollo Bay an extraordinary, family-friendly adventure awaits. Join a 75-minute guided wildlife tour in pristine Otways landscape. Spot wallabies, koalas, cockatoos, emus and more (Mamma even saw the elusive Christmas beetle!) as you learn about conservation, native flora and fauna and how to spot a koala (hint, smell their poo)!
Everyone will be equipped with a set of binoculars and a headset tuned to your guide’s station so even if you lag behind, you won’t miss any info. The kids love wandering through the thoughtfully created tour: between tall mountain ash gums, down into fern gullies, then up towards the wide expanse of the big, blue Bass Strait and the incredible coastline we all long for when we head down the Great Ocean Road.
This walk is steadily paced and suitable for all ages (seats are only available towards the end of the trip with the stop at the Conservation Centre) and is wheelchair and pram accessible. Mamma’s 4 and 2 year olds managed the walk with ease, and Mamma’s 4 year old really enjoyed wearing his own headset and learning all sorts of facts about the surrounding fauna and flora. Tours run daily, with different options including a twilight and photographer’s tour. It’s a beautiful way to see Australian native animals up close and in their natural environment.
The tour takes you on a loop back to the visitor’s centre where you can purchase some gorgeous souvenirs from the gift shop and let the kids colour in and have fun in the kids’ corner. Mamma highly recommends hitting the Emu Cafe. With a cake cabinet stocked by local artisans and a seasonal menu with fresh, local produce, a visit here is a must. Mamma highly recommends anything supplied by The Potoroo Pantry, and her littlies absolutely demolish the homemade sausage rolls every time.
If you’ve got friends or family visiting who are after the true Aussie experience, this is an absolute must-visit. Pop in for a coffee, or book a tour - any visit to Wildlife Wonders is sure to be a wonderful one!
the nitty gritty
475 Great Ocean Road,
Apollo Bay
Gadubanud Country
wanna know more? (including prices) click here
Mamma’s special mention: You’re in the Otways! Adventure is the name of the game here. Down the road towards Cape Otway is Maits Rest, a beautiful, short rainforest walk perfect for little legs. And of course, Californian Redwood Forest in Beech Forest is incredible.
And head here for a recommended Perfect Day in Apollo Bay, which is just 5km down the road.
