About this tour
This 12-hour private tour from Melbourne tackles the Great Ocean Road's most striking landmarks without fighting peak-hour crowds. You'll walk among the towering 12 Apostles limestone formations, descend Gibson Steps to the beach below, and venture into Great Otway National Park for a Grade 2 rainforest hike to a secluded waterfall. The route also includes the Californian Redwoods and coastal villages where koalas, king parrots and kangaroos roam freely. Your itinerary flexes to match your group's pace and interests.
Highlights
- Early start beats crowds at 12 Apostles boardwalk
- Steep Gibson Steps descent to pristine beach
- Guided rainforest hike through ferns and myrtle beech
- Hidden waterfall few tour operators reach
- Giant Californian Redwoods among native trees
- Wildlife spotting at Apollo Bay and Kennett River
- Entirely flexible routing for your group
What to expect
You'll be collected early and driven south toward the coast, arriving at 12 Apostles when light and foot traffic are still manageable. The 1km boardwalk gives you solid views of the rust-coloured stacks. Gibson Steps demands careful footing—70 metres of steel-railed stairs descend the cliff face to sand and rock pools below. After lunch (your cost), the mood shifts as you enter the Otways' cool, dense rainforest. The walk to the waterfall is moderate but muddy underfoot; the payoff is isolation and the sound of falling water. You'll loop back via the towering redwoods, then cruise the Great Ocean Road proper, stopping to spot wildlife in the villages.
Good to know
Moderate fitness required; poor cardiovascular health not suitable. Wear proper hiking boots or trainers with grip. Pack 1L water, sunscreen, hat, and warm layers—coastal weather shifts fast. Summer swimmers should bring togs and towel. Lunch costs around $35 (cash or card). Transport by air-conditioned vehicle throughout.
Frequently asked
- How long does Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne take?
- Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne runs for approximately 12 hours.
- How much does Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne cost?
- Prices start from AUD $1300 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne run?
- This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs Private 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Hiking Tour from Melbourne?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. VIC Travel earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original VIC Travel summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.