Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls with Bonorong Wildlife

Exploring Tasmania’s Wilderness: Mt Field National Park, Russell Falls & Bonorong Wildlife Tour Review

If you’re considering a full-day adventure from Hobart that combines waterfalls, rainforests, and native wildlife, this guided coach tour offers a solid way to tick those boxes. Promising a mix of scenic hikes, wildlife sightings, and historical sites, it’s aimed at travelers who want a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

We’re drawn to the way this tour showcases some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights—like the stunning Russell Falls and the unique Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary—and appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and a guided experience. The chance to see 600-year-old trees and encounter the native Tasmanian Devil up close are definite highlights.

However, not everything is perfect. Some travelers have found the schedule a bit disjointed, with a couple of hours feeling less meaningful due to the activity lineup. If you’re after a seamless, in-depth experience, this might feel a little rushed or uneven. Still, for those who want a taste of Tasmania’s wild side in one day and don’t mind a few longer travel stretches, this tour offers good value.

It’s especially suitable for first-timers or families eager to explore multiple highlights without the effort of self-organizing.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of waterfalls, rainforest walks, and wildlife encounters
• Convenient hotel pickup and guided commentary
• Includes iconic Russell Falls and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
• Some reviews mention uneven pacing, especially during travel times
• Good value if you want a rundown in one day
• Moderate physical activity required for walking parts

What You’ll Experience on the Tour

This tour begins bright and early at the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart at 9:00 am, setting the tone for a day packed with nature and learning. You’ll be traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus equipped with WiFi—something many travelers find handy for sharing photos or checking messages—as you make your way out of the city.

Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery and Gardens are your first stop. It’s a peaceful entry point into Tasmania’s history of fish farming—the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere—set within beautifully maintained English-style gardens. Here, you’ll get about an hour to walk around, see the hatchery, and possibly learn about the local trout species.

One visitor highlighted that the visit to the salmon ponds is a chance to step back in time, but some found the organization of stops could be clearer.

Next, you arrive at Mount Field National Park, a highlight for most visitors. The main attraction here is the easy walk through rainforest and fern glades leading to Russell Falls. The path is accessible and manageable for most fitness levels—one review even mentioned that the walk to the falls was “very easy,” making it suitable for families or those with limited mobility.

The view of the waterfalls is spectacular, especially after rain, with water cascading over mossy rocks and towering trees. The serenity of this spot makes it a perfect photo opportunity and place to breathe in the pure mountain air.

The short walk to Russell Falls is often described as “beautiful” and “easy,” and it’s clear why it’s Tasmania’s favorite waterfall. The trail winds through a mixed rainforest, with Swamp Gums and the tallest flowering plant on Earth along the route, adding to the sense of walking through a living, breathing plant museum.

A guest said, “The walk was very easy to the falls and the nature walk to see the 600-year-old trees was easy with little effort,” underlining how accessible and rewarding this part of the trip is.

The Mount Field Visitor Centre provides a brief chance to stretch your legs, explore the Curiosity Room, or pick up souvenirs. It also marks the start of the trail to Russell Falls, making it a logical stop to learn a bit more about the park’s ecology and history. Visitors appreciate this relaxed interlude, although some noted that the overall schedule might feel a bit rushed.

The final major stop is Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you’re given about an hour to get up close with native Australian animals, including the famous Tasmanian Devil. Many visitors find this part of the tour particularly memorable, as it offers a rare chance to see these creatures in a caring environment and learn about their conservation.

One reviewer shared excitement about the opportunity to see the Devil “up close,” emphasizing how engaging the guides can be.

Transport and Group Size

The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and comfort. The coach is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the long travel stretches more pleasant. The pickup service is available at selected hotels, simplifying logistics for visitors staying in Hobart.

The journey from Hobart to the national park involves some travel time—about 2 hours each way—so be prepared for a fair amount of sitting.

Price and Value

At about $150.62 per person, this tour is a decent deal considering it includes transportation, several key destinations, and admission to Salmon Ponds and Bonorong Sanctuary. The full-day format (around 8 hours) offers a lot of variety—waterfalls, rainforest, wildlife—that would be challenging to organize yourself without extra planning and expense.

That said, some reviews point out that portions of the day, especially during transit, may feel less engaging. One traveler mentioned spending roughly two hours on “useless activities,” which could be a matter of how the itinerary is managed or perceived. But overall, for those who want a guided, hassle-free introduction to Tasmania’s highlights, the cost reflects a fair opportunity for value.

Considering the Reviews

A couple of reviews paint a more cautious picture. One critic noted that the bus was uncomfortable, especially sitting near the wheel, and felt the schedule was somewhat inefficient. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, highlighting that the natural sights are truly world-class.

The most positive feedback tends to focus on the ease of seeing Russell Falls and the wildlife sanctuary, along with friendly guides who share insights into the local flora and fauna. The less enthusiastic opinions often cite comfort issues on the bus or a sense that some parts of the day could be better organized.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love nature and wildlife, and prefer not to worry about logistics while enjoying Tasmania’s top sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview or families seeking a manageable day out. However, if you’re after a more in-depth or physically challenging experience, you might find the schedule a bit limited or the pace too relaxed.

This tour also appeals to those who value guidance and structure, as the coach provides a comfortable way to travel between spots, with commentary included. But be prepared for some long travel periods, especially if you’re sensitive to bus discomfort or prefer more flexible, self-paced exploration.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Hobart offers a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s natural beauty and wildlife, all wrapped in the convenience of guided transport and included admissions. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see iconic waterfalls, walk through ancient rainforests, and meet native animals without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions.

While the schedule might feel a little uneven—some travelers comment on wasted time or bus discomfort—the core experiences are memorable and authentic. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery truly shine, making this a valuable introduction for those new to Tasmania or short on time.

If you’re looking for an easy, guided way to connect with Tasmania’s wilderness, this tour is a solid choice—just keep your expectations in check about some of the logistical quirks.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, with the main sightseeing activities packed into the day.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from selected Hobart hotels, which helps simplify your day.

Are the walks suitable for most fitness levels?
Yes, the walks, including those to Russell Falls and the rainforest, are described as easy and manageable for most people, including families.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, a local driver guide, WiFi on the bus, full-day touring, and admissions to Salmon Ponds and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

Can I expect to see wildlife?
Absolutely. The sanctuary features native animals, including Tasmanian Devils, and the guides share insights about their conservation.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a camera for the scenic views. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so layered clothing is advisable.

To sum it up, this guided tour offers a practical and engaging way to see Tasmania’s highlights—if you’re comfortable with some long travel stretches and are eager to experience waterfalls, rainforest, and wildlife in one day. Its value lies in the convenience and insight provided, making it a good choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a broad overview of Tasmania’s natural treasures.