Rottnest Island: Grand Bus and Train Tour with Lunch

Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Western Australia, is famous for its adorable quokkas, stunning beaches, and fascinating military history. While many visitors prefer exploring independently, a guided tour like the Rottnest Island Grand Bus and Train Tour with Lunch offers a comprehensive, hassle-free way to get the most out of a few hours on this beautiful island.

We’ve reviewed this experience based on numerous traveler feedback and official details, and it’s clear this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Rottnest’s natural beauty and cultural sites. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an educational overview, this tour balances fun and information with great value.

What we love most:

• The chance to see quokkas up close and personal — the island’s most beloved residents
• Visiting iconic spots like Jeannies Lookout and Mabel Cove for panoramic views
• The combination of bus, train, and walking, which keeps the pace lively and varied
• The inclusion of a light picnic lunch and entry to historic military sites

One key consideration: the tour is designed for those with a reasonable fitness level, especially when exploring outdoor sites and walking around. If you prefer a totally relaxed day or have mobility challenges, some aspects might be less suitable.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, engaging overview of Rottnest without the hassle of planning every detail. Families, first-timers, and wildlife lovers will find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Efficient exploration: Combines bus, train, and walking tours to cover major sights in 4 hours
• Wildlife encounters: Up-close views of quokkas and native birdlife
• Historical insights: Visits to Oliver Hill Gun Fortifications and tunnels reveal the island’s military past
• Breathtaking vistas: Jeannies Lookout and Mabel Cove offer unforgettable panoramic scenes
• Inclusive pricing: Ticket includes transportation, entry to key sites, and a simple, tasty lunch
• Flexible options: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at Settlement Railway Station, a convenient central location on the island. It lasts around 4 hours, making it perfect for a day trip without feeling rushed. The exact start times vary, so checking availability in advance is recommended.

The Transportation Mix: Bus, Train, and More

Traveling in air-conditioned comfort, the tour begins with a full circumnavigation of Rottnest by bus. The bus stops at all the major sights, allowing you to relax while absorbing stories and facts from your guide. One of the highlights is the train ride to Oliver Hill, a charming old-fashioned carriage that adds character to the experience. The continuation by bus ensures you don’t miss any important spots while keeping the pace manageable.

Wildlife Encounters: The Quokka Connection

The star of the show is, of course, the quokka—widely regarded as the “happiest animal on earth.” Many reviews highlight that guides like Nicky and Clive go out of their way to point out and share interesting tidbits about these adorable creatures. For some, spotting a quokka grazing freely is the tour’s highlight; others appreciate the chance to get close enough for photos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Historical and Military Sites

Your ticket grants access to Oliver Hill Gun Fortifications — a significant site where you’ll learn about the island’s military history. Tour guides, such as Ralph or Yvonne, are praised for their wealth of knowledge, making the visit both informative and engaging. You’ll explore tunnels and guns that showcase the island’s strategic importance, with some reviews mentioning the tunnels as a highlight, although inside the tunnels might feel a bit long for some.

Scenic Spots: Jeannies Lookout and Mabel Cove

Jeannies Lookout offers sweeping views over the island’s rugged coastline — perfect for photos and soaking in the natural beauty. The salt lakes and woodlands encountered along the tour give you a real sense of the island’s varied landscape. Mabel Cove is noted for its breathtaking vistas, where you can take a moment to relax and admire the scenery.

Lunch and Additional Time

A simple wrap and cookie lunch is included, providing enough energy to enjoy the tour without feeling overly full. After the tour, some guests choose to stay longer, explore the island’s settlement, or relax at the Hotel Rottnest Pub, which many reviews recommend for a casual drink and reflection.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $70 per person, you gain access to a curated experience that covers the island’s natural, historical, and wildlife highlights. Many reviewers point out that guides like Ted and Kevin are exceptionally knowledgeable, making the tour educational and fun. Guests also appreciate the flexibility of the reserve now & pay later option, especially given the dynamic nature of travel plans.

While some mention that spending extra time at certain stops would be ideal, the structured schedule ensures you see the key sights without the overwhelm of trying to do everything independently. The entry fees to Oliver Hill and the tunnels are included, which adds further value.

The tour’s mixture of transport modes keeps things lively and prevents fatigue, especially important when exploring outdoor sites or walking along uneven terrain. The small group setting, typically led by a live guide in English, fosters conversation and personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance since availability can vary, especially during peak times
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid rushing and to possibly chat with other travelers
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection — the tour involves outdoor walking and sightseeing
• Bring cash or card for optional purchases or extra drinks after the tour
• Check the weather forecast; sunny days offer the best views at lookout points and beaches
• If you love wildlife, arrive early in the day for the best chance to see quokkas and other birds
• Consider your fitness level — some walking and climbing is involved at lookout points and historic sites

The Perfect Fit: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Rottnest without the hassle of planning. Wildlife lovers will enjoy the abundant quokka sightings, and history buffs will appreciate the fortifications and tunnels. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to pack a lot into a short visit, with timings fitting easily into a half-day schedule.

Those who prefer a more relaxed experience or are less mobile might find some of the outdoor walking challenging, but overall, it’s accessible for most reasonably fit visitors. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an engaging, informative outing are sure to find value here.

Final Thoughts

The Rottnest Island Grand Bus and Train Tour with Lunch offers a well-balanced, engaging glimpse into this charming island’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history. The combination of guided commentary, scenic stops, and easy transportation makes it a practical choice for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Guides like Nicky, Ted, and Clive consistently earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. Plus, the included entry fees and simple lunch make it a cost-effective way to explore Rottnest’s key attractions without worrying about extra expenses or logistics.

If you’re eager to encounter quokkas, learn about military sites, and enjoy spectacular views—all within a manageable four hours—this tour delivers on its promise and more.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level. Kids who enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing will likely love the experience.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
No, a light picnic-style lunch (wrap and cookie) is included in the ticket price. You can bring additional snacks if desired.

Are ferry tickets included?
No, ferry tickets are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the island.

What is the cost of the Rottnest Island government landing fee?
This fee is paid directly to your ferry company and is not included in the tour price.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride is part of the tour and takes you to Oliver Hill, adding to the historical experience.

What sights will I see on the bus tour?
You’ll visit Jeannies Lookout, Oliver Hill Fortifications, salt lakes, and Mabel Cove, among other natural and historic spots.

Is there free time after the tour?
Yes, after the official tour, you can explore further, relax at the pub, or return to the ferry.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and casual clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing are recommended.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Many guests report seeing quokkas and various birds; early morning or daytime is best for wildlife sightings.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is guided in English by live tour guides.

To sum it up, this tour offers a smart, enjoyable way to experience the highlights of Rottnest Island in just a few hours. It blends wildlife, history, and scenic views into a package that’s both informative and fun — perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free, memorable day.

You can check if your dates are available here: