Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour - Max 12 Guests
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Melbourne, Australia
- 12 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Experience the Great Ocean Road’s top attractions on this guided excursion that follows the iconic road in reverse. Embark on your journey and beat the crowds while learning about the region’s scenic landscapes and pretty coastal towns from an informative guide. Visit sites including the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Apollo Bay, and Gibson Steps.
- Explore Victoria’s Great Ocean Road on an all-day reverse tour
- Discover the region’s history and culture with a knowledgeable local guide
- Get going early and enjoy a small-group experience that beats the crowds
- Experience 12 Apostles, Great Otway, Apollo Bay, and other sites
Why Travelers Choose This Tour
An early start and reverse route means you beat the crowds to the Twelve Apostles.
What's Included
- National Park fees
- Live commentary on board
- Professional guide
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Guaranteed to skip the long lines
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Bottled water
- Multilingual Interactive Audio Guide + a complimentary Melbourne City Self-Guided Audio Guide Tour
- Food and drinks
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
For your convenience, our pickup locations are available within 15 minutes walking distance from any point in Melbourne CBD. 1. At 6:30 am from 196 Flinders Street – Opposite Federation Square, and near Flinders St Station 2. At 6:40 am from 313 La Trobe Street – Near Melbourne Central Station 3. At 6:50 am from 44 Spencer Street – The Great Southern Hotel, near Southern Cross Station. Your pickup time and location will be as selected during the booking process. If you need to change the location, please notify us at least 24 hours before the tour departure. Please arrive at the pickup location at least five minutes before departure, as these are public parking spots and the minibus cannot wait. The drop-off points in the afternoon will be along Flinders Street.
Operating hours.6:50 am
Itinerary
Make your own way to the meeting point for your early morning departure from Melbourne. Settle into the minivan and head inland toward the Twelve Apostles.
Arrive at the Twelve Apostles ahead of the crowds and enjoy the magnificent limestone formations at their most peaceful.
Follow Gibson Steps down to the beach below the vertical cliffs and take in a different view of the giant limestone stacks rising up out of the sea. Make a stop at the Loch Ard Gorge and snap photos of the Razorback, the most impressive formation.
Continue along the Great Ocean Road, through Great Otway National Park, to Maits Rest for a walk through the rainforest. Stop at Apollo Bay Stop for lunch (own expense) before continuing to Kennet River Koala Walk to spot the cute marsupials and orange-bellied parrots.
After a final photo stop at Teddy’s Lookout, your tour ends back where you began.
Arrive at the Twelve Apostles ahead of the crowds and enjoy the magnificent limestone formations at their most peaceful.
Follow Gibson Steps down to the beach below the vertical cliffs and take in a different view of the giant limestone stacks rising up out of the sea. Make a stop at the Loch Ard Gorge and snap photos of the Razorback, the most impressive formation.
Continue along the Great Ocean Road, through Great Otway National Park, to Maits Rest for a walk through the rainforest. Stop at Apollo Bay Stop for lunch (own expense) before continuing to Kennet River Koala Walk to spot the cute marsupials and orange-bellied parrots.
After a final photo stop at Teddy’s Lookout, your tour ends back where you began.
1
Winchelsea
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
The Twelve Apostles
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
3
Gibsons Steps
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
4
The Razorback
25 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
5
Loch Ard Gorge
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Port Campbell National Park (Pass By)
6
The Great Ocean Road
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Great Otway National Park (Pass By)
7
Mait's Rest
25 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
8
Apollo Bay
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
9
Kennett River Nature Walk
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
10
Teddy's Lookout
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- We are not able to accommodate children under 7 years of age on this tour, as according to VicRoads regulations they must travel on child restraints, which are not available in our minibuses. Passengers who show up with under 7 years old kids will be refused boarding without refund.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- This is a small groups tour and the vehicles are 12 seaters minibuses Toyota Hiace or similar. In case extra room is required, send us a message so we can arrange large coaches option.
- If you are traveling with people, not in the same booking, please let us know at least 24 hours in advance. We operate with multiple buses and can't guarantee sitting together without being informed.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 4,504 reviews
Denise_D, May 2026
My husband and I went on the Great Ocean Road tour with Hit the Road Tours. They do the tour in reverse and it was nice to avoid a lot of the crowds doing it this way. We had Marty as a tour guide and he did a great job explaining the history of the Great Ocean Road. We stopped for coffee and a great "Brekki". We drove through some great country side with a lot of animals. Marty knew all the good areas to stop to see kangaroos in the field, Koalas in the trees and kookaburras on the beach. We even walked in a rainforest. Our second stop was twelve apostles which were so impressive. It's one of those sights that pictures don't capture the complete beauty of it. We saw so many amazing coast and cliff views. We heard great information about the shipwreck alley. Enjoyed lunch near a beach. Last stop was at a chocolate factory which was a great ending to an amazing tour. We'd recommend this tour. It's a long day but very much worth it.
llkoerner, May 2026
This is a great full day tour, well worth the early pickup time. Our driver Ann was just great, very knowledgeable. Great beautiful ocean views, koalas, kangaroos and birds. The max 12 size and going reverse order is important because Ann our driver could get us in and out before crowds showed up.
Giorgio_H, May 2026
Highly recommended experience! The reverse route was very effective and helped avoid large crowds at several attractions, making the trip much more enjoyable and relaxed. Mark was a great guide, everything was well organized and on time throughout the day. We also had enough time at each stop to properly enjoy and explore all of the attractions mentioned in the itinerary. The scenery was absolutely beautiful, and the overall experience exceeded expectations. I would be very happy to join this tour again in the future.
Aleksandar_P, May 2026
Great experience, great guide, don't miss it. You avoid the crowds. The group is 12 people. The program is tight. Places to stop for rest and food are well selected. Last but not least, during the trip, in addition to the detailed stories of the guide, well-chosen music is also played.
Mark_R, May 2026
This reverse itinerary really made the day spectacular, getting the day started with the longer drive out while we were all still half asleep was definitely the move. We got out to the first few sites just as coffee was kicking in and then it was back to back hit after hit of amazing sites. This has truly been the highlight of my month long trip to Australia... The most stunning coastal drive I've ever witnessed, getting my feet wet by the Antarctic/Southern Ocean, seeing Koalas just hanging out doing their thing in the wild, seeing a couple of wild mobs of kangaroos too... So much better than going to a zoo to see the wildlife. I don't remember my guides name, but he was definitely a fun man (maybe mid 50s bloke) and knew his stuff. Don't skip this tour, it was well worth every minute and penny.
Asif_S, May 2026
We had an amazing time on the Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour! The weather was absolutely perfect, and the entire experience was unforgettable. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, shared great stories throughout the journey, and helped us spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild — such a highlight of the trip!
They were also a very safe driver, kind, friendly, and made sure everyone was having a great time from start to finish. The reverse itinerary was a fantastic idea as it helped avoid the crowds and made the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Melbourne!
Miranda_B, May 2026
We saw so much amazing nature on the tour and our guide, Peter, was so charismatic! We got out often in order to get better wildlife sightings and avoid crowds. It was truly one of my favorite tours I’ve ever been on, I’m already looking to go again!
Subramanian_R, May 2026
Very professional and entertaining tour. Was picked up at appointed spot around 6.30 in a nice Mercedes van. Number of fellow travelers was small so made the trip more relaxing. Our tour guide Marty was excellent...all of us enjoyed his commentary and personality.
I was evaluating driving by myself but after taking this trip I believe I made a wise decision as I could admire the sights better and go to some lesser known spots to watch koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat.
Georgia_W, May 2026
Marty was an amazing tour guide! We got to see so many things including koalas, kangaroos and a kookaburra. It was a long day but so much was packed in and I absolutely loved it. Definitely book and make sure you wear sensible clothes because it gets windy on the coast!
Denise_G, May 2026
I rarely leave reviews. This is an excellent tour - it takes you to multiple beautiful/interesting destinations, including stops to see koalas and kangaroos!) More importantly, this tour company went the extra mile to help me. I realized I had left my raincoat in the restaurant where we had lunch about 10 minutes before we got dropped off back in Melbourne. Our very friendly, knowledgeable and fun driver/guide suggested I call the tour company as it runs this tour every day of the week. I called and ended up texting with the nicest person - he had one of the other guides pick up my jacket (some nice person had turned it in) and then mailed it to our next hotel. We had rain several days of our trip, and it was wonderful to have the rain jacket once again. Highly recommend.
Nick_C, May 2026
We had a beautiful day riding the ocean road - looking for wild koalas and kangaroos. Peter was inciteful. Thank You
Pranay_T, May 2026
Fabulous experience. The tour was well organised and our guide peter was a gem and extremely knowledgeable. He literally knows everything about Australian history and weather.
Shira_S, May 2026
This is the tour to book if you only have one day to explore the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles were a stunning first stop, and working our way back to Melbourne felt like the perfect route. Our guide Peter was a highlight, with his sharp eyes for wildlife (multiple koalas, a family of wallabies, and dozens of kangaroos up close!) and a great sense of humor to carry the group through a long day. Small group size made all the difference for quick, easy stops. Highly recommend!
Connie_S, May 2026
Fabulous day enjoying all the sights on Ocean Road! Loved that it is a war memorial and loved the story about it!
Mariana_B, May 2026
We had an incredible time on the Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary tour! Doing the route in reverse was a game-changer for avoiding the biggest crowds at the main sights. Our guide, Marti, was fantastic—knowledgeable, engaging, and made the whole day run smoothly. Since it’s a boutique tour with a small group, it felt much more personal and relaxed than the big bus tours. Highly recommend!
CJ_J, May 2026
What an amazing day! A lot of driving, but so many cool sights. The Twelve Apostles were stunning. Our driver even helped us find some koalas and kangaroos on the way back — what a delight! Punctual pickup and dropoff.
Jiong_H, May 2026
We didn’t expect to see so many highlights in one day — kangaroos, koalas, the 12 Apostles, and the rainforest all in a single trip. We originally thought a 12-hour tour would be exhausting, but it really wasn’t, since most of the attractions didn’t require very long walks.
There were some steps at Gibson Steps, but it was absolutely worth it. It was a great spot to take photos on the beach with the rock stacks, and there were no railings, which made it feel even more natural and scenic.
The view of the 12 Apostles was truly breathtaking. Our driver was excellent and even found several spots where we could see wild koalas and kangaroos up close — which ended up being the best part of the trip.
We would definitely recommend this day tour to anyone visiting Melbourne for the first time.
Laurie_S, Apr 2026
Mark was a great guide! He spoke clearly, knowledgeable, kept us on time schedule and took us to great sights without the hordes of tourists. He found a wild koala in a tree right by the road then 5-6 koalas in trees close to our lunch town. He also stopped at a pasture with wild kangaroos. The day was filled with beauty, peace, and animals exactly as advertised. The day ended exactly as he said it would at 6:30pm.
Manas_V, Apr 2026
Really amazing experience with a fantastic tour guide. Aside from the seeing the landmarks along the coastline, we also got to learn about the history of the area.
kikimoseley2014, Apr 2026
Wha an amazing day! Ann was a great guide and gave us many opportunities to walk, take photos and explore this beautiful area. She provided great information and tips about the various sites and had planned stops for food/drinks/toilets. We had perfect weather and my dream of seeing the 12 Apostles was fulfilled. Thank you!
Timothy_N, Apr 2026
Guide (Barbara) was knowledgeable and made it fun. Itinerary and extra stops were what I wanted and enjoyed each. Well planned and executed tour. The small van was uncomfortable and the seats hard. Make sure to get one of the newer and larger vehicles.
Mavis_S, Apr 2026
We are lucky to have Jimmy as our driver cum guide. He knows the place very well and took us to spot the wild life. Throughout our whole day trip, he is responsible and helpful. The vehicle is clean and in good condition. We are all delighted and satisfied with the Great Ocean Road trip. $ well spent!
Dushyanth_H, Apr 2026
This was a great one day tour, loved it. Kevin , our driver and guide was good fun as well.
After seeing the sites realised that a one day tour doesn’t do justice - would recommend just a day for the 12 apostles and nearby sites to just sit and marvel. Teddys lookout is another place I would spend a day.
Peter_M, Apr 2026
Great day out, saw all the planned sights and a few more.
Only downside was being dropped off at a point quite distant from where we were picked up.
David_A, Apr 2026
Very well organized tour. Breaks and stops at attractions were well spaced out. Tour guide Marty was great, always had fun and interesting commentary. The reverse tour seemed to legitimately beat the crowds. Also made a lot of effort to help us find wildlife like Koalas and Kangaroos.
Graham_B, Apr 2026
This was a great day especially starting at the furthest point and slowly returning to base. The itinerary was well planned and everything went smoothly. Not only did we see the 12 Apostles and other interesting structures rising from the sea, but we also saw kangaroos and koalas. Our driver was excellent, the pickup was on time, he kept us well informed throughout the day and everything was well explained. A great day.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your great review!
We’re glad you enjoyed the reverse itinerary and a smooth, well-planned day. Seeing the 12 Apostles, plus kangaroos and koalas, really makes it special.
Fantastic to hear your guide made the experience even better!
Warm regards,
Hit The Road Tours
Chris_H, Apr 2026
Do not get picked up at the last stop in the morning. You will get stuck in the rear seats. The rear seats are very uncomfortable (they sit very upright where every other seat has some built in recline). There is little space between your face and the headrest in front of you (about 6-8 inches) making sight seeing from the vehicle difficult at best, and there is the hump for the wheel well where your feet go. The trip was great, the sights were awesome, Wayne our tour guide was also great BUT, my wife and I were so uncomfortable for the whole day (13 hours in the van) which ruined the tour for us. This would have been a 5 star review but was spoiled by the accommodation. What a shame. Maybe offer a two tiered pricing for good seats and not so good seats.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
DUPLICATE REVIEW, DUPLICATE RESPONSE!
Dear Christopher,
Thank you for your feedback. We are thrilled that our Great Ocean Road tour was the highlight of your Melbourne visit and that you enjoyed the scenery, our reverse itinerary, and Wayne’s professional service.
Regarding your comments on seating, we would like to clarify our policy. To ensure passenger comfort, we categorically always leave at least one seat vacant so that no one is required to sit in the rear seat above the wheel. On the day of your tour, that seat was indeed available. While we understand you preferred to sit together, the discomfort you experienced was a result of choosing to occupy the back row rather than utilizing the extra space we provided.
For guests who prioritise specific seating or extra convenience, we recommend our Premium Tour, which includes smaller groups and hotel pick-up/drop-off.
We appreciate your recommendation to others and are glad that, despite your seating choice, the beauty of the tour remained a standout memory of your trip.
Kind regards,
Orlando
Marion_G, Apr 2026
Be prepared for a long day
It is a very interesting and exciting day but by end you can be very tired
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your review!
It is a big day, but we’re glad to hear you found it interesting and exciting. We always aim to make the journey as comfortable and rewarding as possible.
Hope to see you again on another adventure!
Warm regards,
Hit The Road Tours
Mark_C, Apr 2026
Excellent with a great tour guide. Best doing it in reverse as you miss the crowds. We would highly recommend.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your review and recommendation!
Warm regards,
Hit The Road Tours
John_L, Apr 2026
It’s a long bumpy ride but breathtaking scenery . Time to replace the van I think . Rafi did fine . The app was absolutely fantastic and you just download and listen to it. A great value. Well worth it
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your review!
We’re glad you enjoyed the breathtaking scenery and found great value in the experience. It’s also great to hear you liked the audio guide and that Rafi looked after you well.
We appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again soon.
Warm regards,
Hit The Road Tours
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