Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne: Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Learn plant knowledge and customs from an Aboriginal guide in the Gardens

The Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a 90-minute guided tour led by an Aboriginal guide through the ancestral lands of the Kulin Nation. You learn how First Peoples traditionally used native plants for food, tools and medicine, and gain insight into their living culture and ongoing connection to country. The walk starts at 11:00am from the Visitor Centre and is fully hosted; check in 15 minutes early.

Step-by-step itinerary

Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Gardens

• Meet at Visitors Center
• Begin walk with Aboriginal guide
• Explore Melbourne Gardens cultural sites
• Learn about native plants and uses
• Discover Aboriginal customs and heritage

The Experience

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne holds deep cultural significance for the Kulin Nation, and this walk moves through that landscape with an Aboriginal guide who interprets the plants and history you encounter. Rather than reading plaques, you're learning directly about traditional plant uses—what grew here, what it was used for, how it shaped life on this country. The walk won an award for face-to-face interpretation and is also a Victorian Tourism Award winner, which reflects the depth of what the guide brings to the experience.

The 90-minute journey starts at 11:00am and covers the significant native plants within the Gardens. You'll develop an understanding of First Peoples' customs and heritage through the plants themselves, which is a different way of learning than a standard botanical tour. The guide's knowledge connects the landscape to the living culture of Aboriginal Australians, not just the historical record. All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and the walk suits all physical fitness levels, so the terrain isn't a barrier to participation.

Check in 15 minutes before the start time at the Visitor Centre. Dress for the season—wet weather gear in winter, sunscreen and a hat in summer. Public transportation options are available nearby if you're not driving; the Gardens are in central Melbourne. Infants can ride in a pram or stroller, and service animals are welcome.

What’s included

• Fully hosted Aboriginal-led walking experience.
• interpretation of traditional plant uses and Kulin Nation culture.
• access to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne during the walk.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Is this one for you?Book this walk if you want to learn directly from an Aboriginal guide rather than read about First Peoples' heritage—the guide's knowledge and interpretation is what makes the difference between a botanical tour and a cultural one.

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Top questions

What will I learn about the plants in the Gardens?

The Aboriginal guide teaches you the traditional uses of native plants for food, tools and medicine, and explains the Kulin Nation's ongoing connection to the country and the plants that grow there.

What time does the Aboriginal Heritage Walk start?

The walk starts at 11:00am from the Visitor Centre; you'll need to check in 15 minutes early.

How long is the walk?

The walk runs for 90 minutes and covers the significant native plants within Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

Is the walk accessible for people with mobility needs?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and the walk suits all physical fitness levels. Infants can ride in a pram or stroller, and service animals are allowed.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the Gardens?

Public transportation options are available nearby. The Gardens are in central Melbourne, and you'll arrange your own transport; hotel pickup is not included.