Tasmania packs a lot into one day. This guided circuit from Hobart strings together Mount Field’s rainforest walks, iconic waterfalls, and the Kunanyi / Mt Wellington viewpoint in one smooth plan.

I really like the structure: you get interpretive guidance on the walk, plus enough time at key stops to actually enjoy them, not just rush through.

My other favorite part is the wildlife stop at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. You can see native animals like wombats and Tasmanian devils, and some days include close-up kangaroo moments. The only real drawback: it’s an active, cold-weather day with walking that includes steps and steep bits, so bring proper shoes and be honest about your fitness.

Key highlights you’ll remember

• Three Falls Circuit at Mt Field: Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Lady Barron Falls
• Tall Trees Trail: Swamp Gums stretching about 80 meters into the air
• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: guided access with Tasmanian fauna (including wombats and Tasmanian devils)
• Kunanyi / Mt Wellington summit views: panoramic lookout over Hobart and the Derwent River system
• Guides who teach as you walk: expect plant-and-nature talk that makes the scenery easier to understand
• Weather can change the day fast: wind, rain, and winter snow can shape what you see

One-day Tasmania in a single circuit from Hobart

This tour is built for people who want Tasmania’s “wow” moments without renting a car. In one day, you’ll go from temperate rainforest and waterfalls to a wildlife sanctuary, then finish with a high-mountain viewpoint above Hobart. It’s a full itinerary, but it doesn’t feel like a stop-and-sprint when the guide keeps the pace steady.

What makes it especially good value is what’s wrapped into the day: park and sanctuary entry, plus professional guides and guided walks. You’re also traveling in a small group, so you’re not just one face in a huge crowd.

One more thing I appreciate: the day is paced around what matters. You’re not trying to cram ten “maybe” moments into twelve hours. The focus stays on a handful of high-impact locations you can actually experience.

Pickup, timing, and how to plan your day

You’ll meet at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre at 20 Davey Street, Hobart. Pickup time is 7:25am, and the tour returns to the same place around 5:30pm. The tour departs promptly, so show up early enough to get settled and use the restroom before the bus rolls.

The bus ride to the first big nature area takes about 1.5 hours. That’s long enough to get comfortable, but not so long that you feel stuck on the road all morning. Once you hit Mount Field, the day shifts into guided walking and stop time for the falls.

Also plan for the practical stuff: meals and drinks are not included. Bring snacks and water, because you’ll want energy for the walks. And the tour is designed for a day pack only—so travel light.

Mount Field National Park: Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and the Tall Trees Trail

Mount Field is one of those places where the first step into the forest makes you slow down. The park is described as having lush temperate rainforest, plus moody alpine moorland and cascading waterfalls. In other words: you’re not just sightseeing—you’re walking through a real ecosystem.

Your Mt Field highlight is the Three Falls Circuit. The walk takes you to Russell Falls first, where water drops over rock in three tiers. The path then continues through dappled light and fern-like green pockets, moving you toward Horseshoe Falls.

Next comes the Tall Trees Trail section. This is the moment you understand why Swamp Gums are famous: you’re walking where towering trees stretch up roughly 80 meters. Even if you’re not a “tree person,” standing under that kind of height does something to your sense of scale.

What to watch for on the trails

Most walks are labeled easy, but don’t treat that like “no effort.” Reviews mention a walk of around three hours in total, with some small steep sections and stairs. One person even called out close to 500 steps on the Mt Field side. You can go at your own pace, but you should still expect an upright, active day—especially if it’s wet and slippery.

If you’re the type who hates uneven ground, bring trekking-ready shoes, not soft sneakers. And if it’s raining, your “easy” turns into “careful,” fast.

Russell Falls and fern glades: why the walk feels different each day

Waterfalls are dramatic, but they get even better when conditions change. In wetter weather, the falls can look louder and more dramatic, and you might even catch a rainbow when the air is right. The forest also shifts mood: the same path can feel calm in sun and moody in rain.

This tour’s value here is that the walking is guided, so you’re not just looking at a pretty trail—you’re learning what you’re seeing. People repeatedly mention guides pointing out plants and explaining the environment as you go. That turns the walk from “pretty photos” into a place you understand.

One practical note: pack for cold. Mt Field can feel brisk even when Hobart is mild. Bring a jacket and a hat, and assume you’ll be taking a few stops where you stand still long enough to chill.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Tasmania’s animals up close with staff guidance

After Mt Field, you’ll head to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. This isn’t a quick glance-and-go. You get a guided experience conducted by the wildlife staff, which makes a huge difference if you want context and not just animal spotting.

Bonorong is where Tasmania goes from scenery to living creatures. Based on the experiences people shared, you may see a wombat and a Tasmanian devil, and some days also include moments with kangaroos—like feeding and even touching when the staff allow it. There’s a strong “learn while you watch” feel to the visit.

The best part of doing wildlife here (instead of DIY chasing) is the human element. Staff can guide you on what’s special, what’s rare, and how to behave around animals. You’re also less likely to waste time trying to figure out where to go next.

A tip so you don’t miss the moment

Bring snacks and water so you’re not hungry during the wildlife section. The day runs on a rhythm, and when your energy dips, it’s harder to enjoy the animals slowly. Treat breaks like part of the experience, not an interruption.

Kunanyi / Mount Wellington: the windy summit above Hobart

The final nature hit is the Kunanyi / Mount Wellington summit. It sits behind Hobart at 1,271 meters (4,170 feet). From there, you get wide-ranging views: Hobart, surrounding mountains, and the Derwent River system.

This is also the part that reminds you Tasmania can be serious about weather. Multiple experiences mention windy conditions, and people report that the top can feel icy. If your eyes are watering at the summit, that’s not a dramatic tourism effect—it’s just the wind doing its job.

Winter reality check

If you visit in winter, expect the possibility of rough weather. One account noted that snow can lead to closures of parts of Mount Wellington, while the lower portion of the outing still feels worthwhile. So if you’re someone who plans around perfect conditions, build flexibility into your expectations.

The good news: even when the summit approach changes, the viewpoints you do access still deliver. That elevation makes a big difference, and you can feel it even before you reach the top.

Price and value: what $130 gets you on a busy day

At $130 per person for a full day, the value mainly comes from three things:

• Included entry fees: national park access plus wildlife sanctuary entry
• Guided interpretation: professional guides and guided walks, not just transportation
• Time efficiency: you hit multiple major sites without coordinating driving and parking yourself

You’re paying for a curated circuit, and the day is intentionally packed with places that usually require separate planning. If you’ve only got a short time in Hobart and want a balanced nature day—waterfalls + wildlife + mountain views—this is the kind of cost that makes sense.

The main thing that’s not included is meals and drinks. So the real decision isn’t only the base price—it’s how you plan your food and warmth. Pack well and the day feels like a fair trade.

Best for: who this tour suits (and who should think twice)

This tour is a strong fit if you want a guided outdoors day and you’re comfortable with some walking on uneven ground. The parks-and-summit combo is ideal for people who like both short hikes and bigger viewpoints.

It’s also a good choice if you like learning as you go. Guides are repeatedly praised for plant and nature facts, and the rhythm of the day makes it easy to stay engaged.

But don’t force it if you’re not suited. It’s not suitable for children under 8, and it’s also not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The walking is active, and even when sections are “easy,” there are stairs and some steeper moments.

If you’re recovering from an injury or you know you struggle with stairs, you’ll likely regret it later. This isn’t the tour for a “mostly sit in the bus” day.

Practical tips that make the day smoother

Here’s how you get the most out of the full-day pacing without suffering unnecessarily:

• Wear closed-toe shoes with grip. Wet forest paths happen, and stairs are part of the deal.
• Bring layers: jacket is essential. Mt Field and Mount Wellington can feel much colder than you expect.
• Pack water and snacks since meals aren’t included. A few bites at the right time keeps your energy up for the next stop.
• Use a hat and sunscreen even in cooler weather. Outings can still include bright breaks between clouds.
• Bring a day pack only. The tour is set up for that, and it keeps the day easier.

And one small mindset shift helps: treat the walking as part of the sightseeing, not something you rush through. You’ll get better photos, better views, and fewer annoyed thoughts about the steps.

Should you book this Hobart day tour?

Book it if you want a well-structured day that delivers three big hits: Mt Field waterfalls in a rainforest setting, a guided wildlife experience at Bonorong, and panoramic views from Kunanyi / Mt Wellington. The included park and sanctuary fees plus the guided walks make it a practical way to see a lot without the stress of coordinating driving.

Skip it if walking with stairs and uneven ground is a problem for you, or if cold wind on an exposed mountain viewpoint would ruin the day. Also, if you’re traveling with very young kids, this one isn’t built for them.

If you want a single day that feels like Tasmania’s best ideas—nature, animals, and height—this tour is a solid bet. Just dress like the weather might be moody, because it often is.

FAQ

What time do we get picked up in Hobart, and when do we return?

Pickup is at 7:25am at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre, and the tour returns there around 5:30pm.

How long is the tour?

The tour runs for 1 day.

What’s included in the $130 price?

It includes national park entrance fees, wildlife park entrance fees, and professional guides with interpretive walks. The tour also runs in small friendly groups.

Are meals and drinks included?

No. Meals and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring food and drinks, plus snacks.

How much walking is involved?

The tour involves walking and is described as active. Even though many walks are easy, it still requires general health and fitness, and you should expect some steep parts and stairs.

Is the tour suitable for children?

It is not suitable for children under 8 years.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Is there a cancellation option if plans change?

Yes. There is free cancellation up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Hobart: Wineglass Bay, Freycinet Park, and Richmond TourUluru 15-Minute Helicopter ExperienceWhale Watching Cruise from Busselton, Augusta or DunsboroughGreat Barrier Reef Full Day Tour from Cairns