This guided walk takes small groups through a conservation park on the Great Ocean Road near Apollo Bay, where koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals live in natural bushland. The tour lasts about 75 minutes and is led by guides who talk about the animals, the habitat and the conservation work behind the park. It is aimed at visitors who want a close and well-organised wildlife encounter rather than a chance sighting by the roadside. The booking page shows 4.9 out of 5 from 167 reviews, and it is marked as likely to sell out, so book ahead for summer, school holidays and weekends. The walk is easy and suits most ages and fitness levels.
How it compares with wild koala spotting: Kennett River is free and gives you wild koalas in the trees, but sightings depend on luck and the animals are high up. A guided walk like this trades that unpredictability for guides who know where the animals are and can explain what you are seeing. The two experiences complement each other, so many visitors do Kennett River on the way and the guided walk as a planned stop on the Otway side of Apollo Bay.
Practical details
The walk runs on set tour times, and the number of places on each tour is limited, which keeps groups small. Wear closed shoes and a layer, because the weather at Apollo Bay changes quickly and the bush can be cool in the shade. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer. Follow the guide on how close to approach the animals and do not feed them. Check the booking page for the start time, the meeting point and what is included, and arrive a little early.
Who it suits
Families with children, wildlife lovers and anyone who wants a dependable animal encounter on a route where weather can spoil outdoor plans. It works well as a morning or afternoon stop and fits easily into a day around Apollo Bay, the Otway Fly and Cape Otway Lightstation. If you want to see animals that are active after dark, a separate dusk tour at the same park is also sold, but for a first visit the daytime walk is the simpler choice.
If you only have time for one wildlife stop, choose this walk for certainty and Kennett River for the free, wild alternative.
What to expect
The experience
A 75-minute guided walk in small groups through a conservation park, with commentary on the animals and their habitat.
Best time
Book early for summer, school holidays and weekends, since tours are marked as likely to sell out.
How long
About 75 minutes, so allow a little extra for arrival and parking.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and a layer, bring sun protection, follow the guide on how close to approach and do not feed the animals.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and wildlife lovers who want a dependable close encounter with native animals near Apollo Bay.
- Families
- Easy walking and an engaging format make it a good fit for children, though check any age or pram notes when you book.
- Couples
- A relaxed activity that pairs well with lunch in Apollo Bay afterwards.
- Pair with
- Pair it with Kennett River for wild koalas and the Otway Fly or Cape Otway Lightstation in the same day.
- Time needed
- About two hours including arrival and parking.
Good questions
How long is the walk?+
The guided tour takes about 75 minutes and runs at set times, so check the start time when you book.
Which animals will I see?+
Native animals such as koalas, kangaroos and wallabies are the focus. Exactly what you see on the day depends on the animals and the guide.
Is it better than looking for wild koalas?+
It is more dependable and comes with a guide, while Kennett River is free but relies on luck. Many visitors do both.
Do I need to book ahead?+
Yes. The tour is marked as likely to sell out and group sizes are limited, so book early for summer and weekends.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation is offered, so check the cut-off time on the booking page.
