Top Sydney Wildlife Encounters

The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks—but much of it remains hidden to visitors without tickets to a performance. This guided walking tour offers a closer look inside the UNESCO World Heritage–listed building, with access to spaces typically reserved for showgoers. As you explore, your guide shares entertaining stories about the venue’s design, history, and the productions that bring it to life.

Escape the city and see Sydney’s marine life up close on a whale-watching cruise from Darling Harbour. Cruise through Sydney Harbour in search of migrating humpback whales, with live onboard commentary and insights into the local marine environment. A small vessel offers a more intimate experience and better viewing opportunities on the water.

Join a morning or afternoon excursion to Manly to snorkel in the calm waters of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. Just a short hop from Sydney, see diverse marine life on a guided snorkeling tour from Shelly Beach. After a swim test, your guide leads your small group into the water from the beach, so you can snorkel with confidence. Also stroll along the headland for great Northern Beaches views.

Experience a close encounter with humpback whales—without having to leave the city—on this thrilling speedboat tour from Sydney. Hop on board the city’s fastest commercial ship and set off across Sydney Harbour, past landmarks such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Head out into the Tasman Sea, where you have the chance to spot whales swimming and playing in their natural habitat.

Experience wine and wildlife on this comprehensive day trip from Sydney. Admire gorgeous coastal views on a scenic drive to Royal National Park, snap a selfie with a koala in Symbio Wildlife Park, and hike to a waterfall lookout in Morton National Park. Plus, enjoy a seaside lunch and boutique wine tasting—all included in the tour price. Enjoy a more personal experience with a small-group maximum of 11.

Take in all the big, well-known sights, as well as secret, out-of-the-way vantage points! This is your personalised, private tour of the Blue Mountains - far from the heavily-worn tourist trail. Get up close to Australian wildlife at Featherdale Wildlife Park - entry fees included! This adventure will take you on gentle strolls to serene waterfalls, lush rainforests, and to spectacular secret lookouts. We can also stop at Mrs Macquaries Chair to get the perfect shot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Lunch is at a quintessential Australian teahouse, nestled in the "outback" of beautiful Megalong Valley. Travel with a knowledgeable local guide in a comfortable SUV. We drive along unpaved roads to windswept caves, look for ancient Aboriginal artwork hidden in the bush, and visit the pretty village of Leura with cafes and boutique shopping. Optional stop (own expense): visit Scenic World to experience sweeping views from a cable car and ride the world’s steepest railway.

Located on the shoreline of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Taronga Zoo is home to thousands of fascinating animals, including Australian natives such as the koala, kangaroo, and platypus. Check the schedule for daily keeper presentations, or book an animal encounter or guided tour (own expense) for a more in-depth experience.

Be immersed in the beauty of the UNESCO–listed Blue Mountains National Park for a day. During this day trip from Sydney, go off the beaten track while exploring magnificent valleys, rivers, and gorges with an expert guide. Visit Featherdale Wildlife Park en route, then hike in the Jamison Valley in the Blue Mountains and take in the views from several lookouts. Round-trip hotel transfers are included for your convenience.