Tasmania: 7-Day West to East Tour

Introduction

Tasmania is a wild, beautiful island that promises unforgettable landscapes, unique wildlife, and stories that go way beyond the usual tourist stops. This 7-day West to East Tour offers an in-depth look at the island’s most iconic spots, with a good mix of nature walks, scenic drives, and cultural highlights.

What we love about this tour: first, it’s designed to hit all the must-see locations like Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay. Second, the guides get rave reviews for their knowledge and friendly approach, making every stop more meaningful. Third, the variety of experiences—from rainforest hikes to wildlife encounters—ensures you’ll find plenty to love, even if you’re not the most active traveler.

One potential consideration is that this is quite an active itinerary—short walks, wildlife spotting, and some hiking are involved—so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness. Also, the group size is small, which enhances the experience but might not suit travelers seeking independence or complete privacy.

This tour really suits adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized way to see Tasmania’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Hayden, Phil, Lynna, and Evan make the experience more engaging and informative.
• Diverse Landscapes: From ancient rainforests and towering eucalyptus trees to rugged coastlines and alpine wilderness.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see wombats, Tasmanian devils, and penguins in natural or protected environments.
• Stunning Views: Iconic sights like Wineglass Bay, Cape Tourville lighthouse, and Crescent Bay.
• Balanced Itinerary: A good mix of hikes, cultural visits, and scenic drives, suitable for moderate walkers.
• Small Group: Intimate travel experience that encourages interaction and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan via Mount Field National Park

Starting from Hobart, the tour heads north towards Mount Field National Park, a favorite for its giant eucalyptus trees and cascading Russell Falls. Walking beneath some of the tallest trees on Earth is truly humbling, especially for nature lovers. The short, flat walk to Russell Falls takes about 25 minutes and is perfect for all ages and fitness levels—it’s a crowd-pleaser for its postcard-worthy scenery.

We loved the way guides shared insights into the park’s ecology and history, making the experience more than just a walk. Afterwards, the group visits Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, which offers tranquil vistas perfect for photos and reflection. The journey continues through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, with stops in Queenstown for a quick history lesson on Tasmania’s mining past.

Arriving in Strahan, a charming harbor town, you’ll find a relaxed vibe that sets the tone for the days ahead. Spending two nights here means you get time to absorb its historic charm and prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 2: Exploring the Rugged West Coast

The wild west coast is where Tasmania’s untamed spirit really shows. Whether you choose a guided rainforest walk through ancient trees or an optional Gordon River cruise (extra cost), you’ll experience the rugged beauty of this region.

The rainforest walk is guided, so expect stories about the flora and fauna, plus tips on spotting wildlife like wallabies. The sand dunes at Henty Sand Dunes and the endless stretch of Ocean Beach reveal the coast’s raw power and serenity. Reviewers like Diane loved her visit here, noting the “fantastic activity and knowledgeable guides,” making the experience feel both fun and educational.

Day 3: Cradle Mountain and Launceston

A highlight for many, Cradle Mountain National Park offers spectacular alpine scenery. The tour includes options like the Dove Lake circuit—a 6 km walk that takes 2-3 hours, with chances to see wombats, echidnas, and other native animals along the way. The landscape is a photographers’ dream, with rugged peaks and mirror-like lakes.

For those wanting a challenge, there’s the possibility to hike to Marion’s Lookout for panoramic views. Our reviews mention that the short walks are easy to moderate, providing the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.

Driving to Launceston later, the tour stops in Sheffield, known for its vibrant murals, which provide a colorful break from nature. It’s a brief but charming visit that adds a touch of local art and culture.

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Day 4: Launceston to Bicheno via the Bay of Fires

In Launceston, the Cataract Gorge is a must-visit, especially for wildlife enthusiasts—wallabies are often seen here. Then, the route takes you east to the Bay of Fires, famous for its pristine white sands and striking orange lichen-covered boulders. Walking along the shoreline, you’ll understand why this area is considered one of Tasmania’s most beautiful spots.

Spending the night in Bicheno, you’ll get a chance to see little penguins returning from the sea at dusk—a real treat that many reviews highlight. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and coastal scenery make it a perfect overnight stop.

Day 5: Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

One of the tour’s crown jewels, Freycinet National Park, features the iconic Wineglass Bay. You can hike to the lookout for a picture-perfect view or challenge yourself with the Mt Amos climb—an exhilarating yet demanding trek that rewards you with sweeping vistas of the bay.

Visitors like Laetitia appreciated the flexibility, mentioning she loved both the walk and the summit climb. The Cape Tourville lighthouse offers a scenic walk with panoramic views of the coastline, adding variety to your day.

Day 6: Wildlife, Heritage, and Hobart

Back in Hobart, the tour includes a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see and learn about Tasmanian devils, wombats, and other native animals. The guides here, like Phil and Lynna, are praised for their warmth and knowledge.

A walk through Richmond Village provides a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past, with historic buildings and charming streets. Climbing Mount Wellington/kunanyi offers sweeping views of Hobart and beyond—a fitting way to round off the day.

Day 7: Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula

The final day focuses on Port Arthur, one of Australia’s most well-preserved convict sites, offering a tangible link to Tasmania’s early history. The rugged coastlines and cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula are breathtaking, especially at Crescent Bay. The walking tour here combines natural beauty with historical storytelling, making it a fitting conclusion to the trip.

The Value in Details

The small group size is a real advantage, allowing for a more personalized experience and easier movement during walks. The guides—like Evan, Phil, and Lynna—are frequently praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, making each stop more engaging. Reviews mention that guides share stories, environment insights, and tips on spotting wildlife, which elevates the tour from just sightseeing to a learning experience.

The transportation is comfortable, with enough space for luggage (up to 20kg), and the itinerary is paced well, balancing travel and exploration. Most walks are classified as easy to moderate, suitable for travelers with a reasonable fitness level. For example, the walk to Russell Falls is short and flat, ideal for all ages, while the Dove Lake circuit offers a longer, more scenic route.

The accommodation options, ranging from motels with private rooms to hostels, are generally well-reviewed. Some feedback highlights that the Hobart hostel was a bit noisy, but overall, guests found the lodgings comfortable and fitting for the adventure.

Price and Overall Value

While the cost isn’t explicitly stated, reviews consistently mention the tour’s excellent value—a comprehensive way to see Tasmania without the hassle of organizing transport and accommodations. Included highlights, guided walks, and access to national parks mean you’re paying for a curated experience rather than just transportation. The added bonus of knowledgeable guides and small group intimacy makes this a worthwhile investment for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day West to East Tasmania tour offers a well-rounded adventure that combines stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and historical insights. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy moderate activity levels, appreciate guided storytelling, and want to maximize their time on the island without the stress of planning every detail.

The experience is enriched by expert guides who go beyond surface-level commentary, making each location come alive. The variety of landscapes—from rainforests to rugged coastlines—ensures no two days feel the same, and the small group setting fosters a warm, inclusive atmosphere.

If you’re after a flexible, engaging, and visually stunning way to discover Tasmania’s highlights, this tour truly delivers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 8 years due to the active nature and walking involved.

What level of fitness is required?
Moderate fitness and good mobility are recommended since most walks are easy to moderate; some options like Mt Amos are more challenging.

Are the walks optional?
Yes, all walks are optional, allowing flexibility for different energy levels and interests.

How many guides will I have?
You’ll have different guides for different parts of the trip, with highly praised guides like Hayden, Phil, Lynna, and Evan.

What should I pack?
Bring warm clothing, sun protection, hiking shoes, swimwear, a towel, and weather-appropriate outdoor gear.

Can I store my luggage?
Yes, you can bring up to 20kg of luggage, stored in a trailer during travel days.

What about accommodation?
Options include hostels and motels, with private rooms available. Some reviewers noted noise issues at Hobart’s hostel but overall accommodation was considered good.

Is food included?
The itinerary doesn’t specify meal inclusions, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase meals along the way.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, Tasmania’s weather varies, so packing appropriately and checking local conditions is advised.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Tasmania’s highlights with expert guides, in a small group setting that emphasizes authentic experiences. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, wildlife, and scenic landscapes, and who want a well-organized trip that balances activity with comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby