Great Ocean Road: Wildlife Wonders Walk & Conservation Guide

Summary

Wander Otways bushland, meet wildlife & learn from local guides

You’ll wander peaceful Otways bushland with a conservationist guide, spot wild kangaroos or even a sleepy koala, and pause at the research hub to see real conservation in action. With binoculars in hand and stories from locals, you’ll feel connected to both wildlife and place—plus there’s time for coffee or lunch after your walk.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so quiet inside walking that path above the Great Ocean Road. There was this soft crunch under my shoes and a smell—sort of eucalyptus but earthier, almost smoky. Our guide, Jess (she grew up nearby), handed out binoculars and just grinned when someone asked about snakes. “You’ll see more kangaroos than snakes,” she promised. I believed her, but still watched my step anyway.

The walk itself isn’t long—1.4km, maybe 75 minutes—but it’s packed. We moved through grasslands where wallabies froze mid-chew, then into these cool fern gullies that felt like another planet. Jess pointed out a koala wedged in a forked tree (“He’s been there all morning,” she whispered), and for a minute everyone just stood listening to the wind. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t capture how blue the sky looked behind those leaves.

We stopped at the Conservation Ecology Centre halfway through. There was this table covered in maps and tracking collars—real science stuff—and one of the researchers showed us how they monitor endangered species here along the Great Ocean Road. I liked that part more than I thought I would; it made me feel like what we were doing actually mattered. Afterward, some folks grabbed lunch at the café (I just had a flat white), and I wandered the gift shop thinking about that silent koala. Still do sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided wildlife walk and conservation visit

• Join 75-minute guided walk
• Walk 1.4km on all-abilities path
• Explore grassland, forest, bushland
• Spot unique wildlife with guide
• Learn about Otways ecology
• Visit Conservation Ecology Centre Hub
• See conservation projects and research
• Relax in cafe and browse gift shop

Top questions

How long is the Wildlife Wonders guided walk?

The guided walk is approximately 75 minutes along a 1.4km all-abilities path.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Are binoculars provided during the tour?

Yes, all participants receive binoculars for wildlife spotting during the walk.

What kind of wildlife might I see on this Great Ocean Road tour?

You may spot kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other native animals living freely.

Does this tour include a visit to the Conservation Ecology Centre?

Yes, you’ll pause at the Research Hub to learn about ongoing conservation projects.

Is there food or drink available before or after the tour?

Yes, you can enjoy light lunch or refreshments at the onsite café before or after your walk.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted throughout all areas of the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes a 75-minute guided walk with a local conservationist along an easy 1.4km path through grasslands and fern gullies; use of headsets to hear your guide clearly; binoculars for spotting wildlife; a stop at the Conservation Ecology Centre Research Hub; plus time to relax in the café or browse for mementos after your tour.