Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Escape Melbourne on an unforgettable adventure with the Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour. Begin at Grants Picnic Ground, where native birdlife and serene rainforest trails await. Then, board the iconic Puffing Billy Railway at Belgrave Station, and feel the thrill as you dangle your legs over open carriages during a magical one-hour journey through lush forests. At Lakeside Station, explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, discover steam train history, and enjoy lunch (own expense) surrounded by picturesque views. Perfect for nature and history lovers, this tour promises timeless memories for all ages.
*At times train may operate in reverse
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1 hour train journey on Puffing Billy
Return transfers to/from Melbourne in modern vehicle
Friendly & informative guide
Lunch is available to purchase from a local cafe
Beverages are available to purchase from a local cafe
Grants Picnic Ground
Discover native birdlife and tranquil rainforest trails at Grants Picnic Ground, a serene escape in the Dandenong Ranges. This includes travel time from Melbourne to the Dandenong Ranges
Board Puffing Billy at Belgrave Station, a historic steam train that whisks you into the heart of the rainforest.
64 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Lukasz L,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
Highly recommend this trip. Very relaxed, friendly atmosphere and beautiful nature. Well and easy organised.
Jennifer I,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
We very much enjoyed our Puffing Billy ride through the beautiful Dandenong ranges, sitting on the window ledge with our feet dangling out! Margaret was a fun, enthusiastic guide, who clearly has a passion for her job. A hint when boarding the train… head straight to your carriage to grab a good spot and try to sit on the side facing the platform (the views are better!).
Robert R,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
The walk through the woods was mostly flat and well worth it. The open steam engine train ride was through a National Park. You can sit on the side of the train car.


Ena A,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
I wanted to thank Gina and the crew - what a fantastic day today. Gina is a very kind, happy and knowledgable guide - I thoroughly enjoyed today’s tour to the Rainforest and the Puffing Billy Train Ride through the Dandenong Ranges. The experience was fantastic and something that I will take with me forever. I also thoroughly enjoyed the Indigenous knowledge that she possesses - it’s something that I am interested in, and have learnt a lot from Gina today. It has been an amazing birthday week in Melbourne for me. Topped off with this amazing experience today. Whilst I move on the Sunshine Coast and then back to Perth - the memories that I have gained from this experience will stay with me forever. I want to wish Gina and the crew all the best for the future.
DianaSL P,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
Good introductory experience to Victorian rainforest, towns and heritage railway. Friendly and experienced tour guide, Gina, shared stories and provided good advice throughout the trip.
Martin I,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
It was an awesome experience, super accessible for everyone. The walk was easy and fun. The ride on "Puffing Billy" was top-notch—so much fun and pretty interesting, especially for us train enthusiasts. Our guide (sorry, can’t remember his name) was a legend—super funny and friendly. We had an amazing morning and I’d definitely recommend it!
736eam,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A fun little outing. Worth going. Everyone was very jolly. Great for a range of ages. Highly recommend for a family. You go through towns where people wave. Really liked the tour operator too, he was fun.








Shelagh L,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
Relaxing and fun trip. We had one of the volunteers in our carriage, who had a wealth of knowledge from start to finish. Good for solo or group.
daliduvel,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was a super nice reception from Matt the excursion leader! He is a very good funny animator with knowledge! Was friendly to everyone and hugely funny, nice start to the day! He entertained all the guests! You would repeat the trip for his presence! What a great guide! Great! Greetings from the Belgian Team! 👌🤣❤️💋




154becd,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Thanks Explore Australia Tours for fitting us in at the very last minute we thought the tour was the highlight of our Melb trip and even great for kiddos thanks again. Matt was a brilliant guide







Operated by Explore Australia Tours