Melbourne: Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Royal Botanic Gardens

Summary

Walk with an Aboriginal guide in Melbourne’s gardens learning plant wisdom and culture

You’ll walk through Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens with an Aboriginal guide, learning firsthand about native plants used for food and medicine and hearing stories from Kulin Nation culture. Taste leaves, listen to language you’ve never tried before, and feel the connection between land and people—it’s more personal than you might expect.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the smell first—something earthy and sharp, like eucalyptus but softer. We’d barely stepped into the Royal Botanic Gardens when our guide, Aunty Joy, greeted us with “Womin djeka.” She smiled and waited for us to try saying it back (I definitely mangled it). The light was gentle that morning, not too hot yet, and there was this hush under the big trees. I hadn’t realized how close these gardens are to the city until I heard trams in the distance—then just birds again.

Aunty Joy showed us a tree whose leaves you can crush for medicine. She passed one around; my fingers smelled peppery after. Someone asked if people still use these plants today and she just nodded—“Every day.” It hit me then how much history sits in plain sight here. Kids ran past on a school trip, their teacher whispering to keep quiet. We learned which roots were food, which bark made tools. At one point she laughed at my attempt to say another word in her language—honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever get those sounds right.

The walk wasn’t long—maybe an hour or so—but it felt like we’d stepped sideways into someone else’s story for a bit. There was something grounding about hearing her talk about Country while standing on that soft grass. The sun came out stronger by the end and I noticed how everyone lingered instead of rushing off. I left thinking about what it means to really belong somewhere—not sure I have an answer yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Melbourne Gardens

• Meet at Visitors Center
• Begin walk at 11:00am
• Explore Melbourne Gardens with guide
• Learn about Kulin Nation culture
• Identify native plants and uses
• Understand Aboriginal customs and connection

Top questions

How long is the Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Melbourne Gardens?

The walk lasts about an hour and starts at 11:00am from the Visitor Centre.

Is the Aboriginal Heritage Walk wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers and prams are welcome.

What should I wear for the Aboriginal Heritage Walk?

Dress for weather conditions—bring wet weather gear in winter or sunscreen/hats in summer.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the experience.

Do I need to check in before the tour starts?

Please check in 15 minutes prior to your experience at the Visitor Centre.

What’s included

Your experience includes a fully hosted Indigenous walking tour through Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens with an Aboriginal guide sharing stories and knowledge along the way; all paths are accessible for wheelchairs or strollers so everyone can join comfortably.