Phillip Island Penguin and Koala Highlights Day-Trip from Melbourne
Overview
Available languages
9 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Take in the spectacular Phillip Island Penguin Parade as you watch the colony of Little Penguins crosses the shoreline from the ocean. Heading out to Penguin Parade, we begin our day at a Koala Reserve to meet some furry Australian favourites. Take a tour and get up close and personal with our native Australian wildlife. Travel to Phillip Island Nature Parks, known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and unique wildlife experiences. The island is home to a colony of around 32,000 little penguins. Phillip Island Tour is one of the popular and must-watch tourist attractions in Victoria.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No photography or filming is permitted at the Penguin Parade. Penguins have sensitive eyes and a bright, sudden flash or unusual light can frighten or disorientate a penguin.
Child and infant fare prices apply from 0 to 12 years old. Child protective seats are free of charge, subject to availability and must be requested at time of booking.
Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person. Our vehicles are not wheelchair, prams or child stroller accessible please refrain from bring on tour.
Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Melbourne
Our coach will depart from Melbourne City and head southeast for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with our first stop being the Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island.
Phillip Island Nature Parks - Koala Conservation Reserve
At the Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island, guests will have 45 minutes to explore the lush surroundings and stroll along the elevated boardwalks that wind through the treetops. Here, you’ll have the chance to get up close to koalas in their natural habitat, spotting these iconic creatures as they rest in the eucalyptus trees. The knowledgeable staff will provide fascinating insights into the conservation efforts that protect these beloved animals. It's a peaceful and educational experience, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Australia's wildlife.
What‘s Included
Experienced local driver guide to assist you throughout the day
Air-conditioned premium coach travel and comfort
Comprehensive live commentary in a fun and social atmosphere
Admission to Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve
Admission to Phillip Island Nature Park with Penguin Parade (general viewing)
Meals not included, guests will have an opportunity to support locals and buy lunch along the way.
Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
Travel insurance is highly recommended
Personal expenses
Options
General Viewing Admission
Australian wildlife experience
Mid-range seat in coach travel
Duration: 9 hours: This tour operates on a seasonal departure schedule, pick up times change when daylight savings clocks are adjusted.
Roundtrip to & from Melbourne
24-seater Mitsubishi Rosa Bus: This vehicle makes for a safe & comfortable journey (air-conditioned), with large passenger windows for unobstructed views.
Reviews
822 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Thanks Andy!
professional1959,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had great service despite the horrible weather. Andy did a great job! On time pick up and return Very informative. Thanks!
Penguin parade experience
W5713WDjuliek,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful experience. Anthony is an excellent guide.
Penguins
RosaElena L,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00We had a great guide and she did a great job. But, we were kind of deceived because we didn't see lots of Penguins... For the largest colonie of blue pinguins, we didn't see more than 30 going out of the sea and close to their nests. This was our second time in the island. The first time it was great with so many Penguins. But that's nature. It was only deceiving to have a long journey not to see what we saw the first time around 5 years ago. But definetely, I recommend.
Best tourguide ever!
lloydk921,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great experience but the best part of the visit was the tour guide fiona, hearing all the great travel stories and experiences is really inspiring. Would do it again, even just for chats!
Awesome day
SteveDebbieSalsbury,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great day! Paul was our tour guide and he was awesome. Once he parked the bus he offered to take whatever guests that wanted a tour of whatever stop we were at. This was helpful as he knew what to look for and where to look. He also wasn’t in a rush at the end of the day giving us ample opportunity to observe the penguins on their journey back up to their Knowles. Got to see lots of wallaby’s along the way. The koalas were adorable.
Fiona Philip Island Tour
P2848SRalanab,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Everything was very organized and strategic. The tour guide (Fiona) was very clear on everything and we had the opportunity to enjoy everything at its full potential.
The koalas were great....
Gunnar40,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The koalas were great. But watching the penguin parade in bad weather without possibility to take pics were so so. However, er saw quite a few penguins...
Awesome experience
Deby A,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Joel is an awesome guide! Very communicative and willing to assist
First meeting with koalas
Dreamer47068821911,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Interesting tour and Joel is a very knowledgeable, easygoing and sympathetic guide. The koalas and wallabies were the highlight for the two of us, haven't seen them before.
Penguin parade perfection
Graham F,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Joel was a great driver and a lot of fun. Definitely recommend this tour
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