Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls with Bonorong Wildlife

Introduction

Planning a trip to Hobart and want to explore Tasmania’s wild side? This Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls tour with Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary promises a full day of nature, waterfalls, and native animal encounters.

What we love about this experience is its blend of scenic beauty, educational wildlife stops, and ease of access—plus the chance to witness Tasmania’s famous waterfalls up close. However, one consideration is that some travelers have found the bus journey less comfortable and a bit lengthy, which can impact your overall enjoyment.

This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of wildlife, easy walks in lush rainforests, and a taste of Tasmania’s famous waterfalls without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s perfect if you’re after a low-stress day that hits key highlights of the island’s natural wonders.

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Good To Know

• Beautiful waterfalls: Russell Falls is a highlight with an easy walk leading to stunning scenery.
• Wildlife encounters: Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers chances to see iconic Tasmanian animals up close.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned coach with WiFi provides a relaxed way to see the sights.
• Informative guides: Experienced drivers and guides enhance the experience with local knowledge.
• Mixed reviews on bus comfort: Some travelers noted discomfort due to seating arrangements.
• Timed for convenience: The tour’s schedule allows ample time at each stop, balancing sightseeing and travel.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery and Gardens

Your day begins with a visit to the Salmon Ponds, the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere. Located amidst historic English-style parklands, this stop provides a peaceful start, with the opportunity to learn about fish breeding and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Travelers have appreciated this stop for its historical charm and the chance to see native fish in action. According to a review, “se amidst historic surrounds within the original and stunning English parklands,” making it a tranquil introduction. The admission is included, and spending about an hour here allows for a relaxed exploration.

Mount Field National Park and Russell Falls

The heart of the tour is the walk through Mount Field National Park. Expect a gentle hike through lush rainforest, where towering trees and fern glades create a true sense of wilderness. The walk culminates at Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s most photographed waterfalls—and for good reason.

Travelers describe the walk as “very easy,” with a short, accessible trail that anyone with moderate fitness can enjoy. The waterfall is indeed breathtaking, with reviewers noting it as “Tasmania’s favourite waterfall” and praising the surrounding rainforest for its towering Swamp Gums and massive trees. The walk takes roughly 30 minutes, giving you time to soak in the view and take photos.

Mount Field National Park Visitor Centre

Following the waterfall visit, you’ll spend around 30 minutes at the Visitor Centre. Here, you can explore the Curiosity Room, browse the gift shop, and gather some local insights. This stop offers a relaxed break, especially if you want to learn a bit more about Tasmania’s flora, fauna, and geological history.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

The final major stop is the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where the focus shifts to native animals. You’ll have roughly an hour to meet iconic creatures like the Tasmanian Devil, wombats, and pademelons.

According to reviews, this part is a highlight: “get ready for your up-close encounter with the iconic Tasmanian Devil,” and the chance to learn about the unique wildlife that makes Tasmania special. Guides at the sanctuary are knowledgeable, offering insights that enrich your understanding of conservation efforts and animal behavior.

Transportation and Duration

The tour runs for about 8 hours, including travel time. It departs at 9:00am from Brooke Street Pier and returns there at the end of the day. The coach is air-conditioned, with WiFi onboard, making the long bus rides more comfortable.

However, some guests, like one reviewer, expressed discomfort with the seating: “we had to sit where the wheel was,” leading to a less-than-ideal experience.

The small group size—limited to 30 travelers—helps keep the experience intimate, but it also means early booking is recommended as it’s booked around 32 days in advance on average.

Pricing and Value

At $150.62 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of multiple stops, entrance fees, and transportation. The combination of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and informative guides makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a comprehensive, yet manageable, taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Authentic Experiences from Guests

The reviews highlight both positives and areas for improvement. One traveler praised the “easy walk to the falls” and the “opportunity to see the 600-year-old trees,” making the experience accessible to most. Conversely, another mentioned discomfort on the bus and questioned the value of some activities, implying that the tour could be streamlined.

A key insight is that guides and wildlife staff are well-regarded, with guests appreciating their knowledge and enthusiasm, which adds real value to the wildlife stop.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who want to see Tasmania’s waterfalls and native animals without the stress of organizing independent visits. It’s well-suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness—since the walks are easy—and those who enjoy guided commentary.

However, if you prioritize the most comfortable bus ride or longer, more challenging walks, you might find this tour a tad limited. It’s a solid choice for a quick, scenic, and wildlife-focused day out from Hobart.

Final Thoughts

This Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls tour with Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a dependable way to enjoy Tasmania’s natural highlights in a single day. It balances scenic beauty with wildlife encounters, guided by knowledgeable staff who add context and personality to your experience. Though some may find the bus ride less comfortable, the easy walks, stunning waterfalls, and chance to meet iconic animals make it worthwhile.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, value-packed day that showcases Tasmania’s wilderness without too much hassle, this tour hits a good sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and gentle outdoor activity—delivered in a convenient, guided package.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at selected hotels, a local experienced driver guide, an air-conditioned coach with WiFi, and all entrance fees to Salmon Ponds and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, including travel and stops.

Is the walk to Russell Falls difficult?
No, the walk is described as very easy and suitable for most fitness levels, taking approximately 30 minutes round trip.

Are the stops well-paced?
Yes, each stop is allocated enough time for sightseeing, photos, and brief exploration—around 1-2 hours, depending on the site.

What are some potential drawbacks?
Some travelers have noted discomfort with the bus seat arrangements and felt that some activities were less engaging or took longer than necessary.

Is it suitable for children or older travelers?
Generally, yes, as the walks are easy and the activities are accessible. Moderate fitness is recommended.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the tour is booked an average of 32 days ahead, early booking is advisable, especially in peak seasons.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. A small backpack with water and snacks is also useful.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience some of Tasmania’s most scenic spots and wildlife, with the right mix of ease, education, and natural beauty. It’s an accessible choice for those wanting a guided day tour that hits the highlights without over-complication.