The World’s 6 Best Wildlife Trips

1.Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 640 reviews · 8 hours · from $140Our pick

Leave Melbourne by comfortable coach for a one-hour Puffing Billy ride from Belgrave to Lakeside, with open-sided carriages, rainforest views, and the famous leg-dangling tradition. Then explore Healesville Sanctuary for koalas, kangaroos, and bird shows. Guides such as Gary, Stuart, Anthony, and Gina add local stories and practical help throughout the day.

“We enjoyed the whole day. It was truly very enjoyable.”

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2.Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 605 reviews · 12 hours · from $145

This 12-hour tour pairs Puffing Billy’s steam train through the Dandenong Ranges with The Nobbies and Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade. English-speaking guides such as Gina, Alan, Jose, and Stuart lead the day, sharing wildlife tips and keeping the long transfers on track. General viewing is included, while Penguin Plus offers a closer view for an extra fee.

“Absolutely fantastic experience. Stuart was our guide, he’s knowledgeable and entertaining, he was very attentive to everyone’s needs and made sure we all had a good time.”

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3.1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 211 reviews · from $157

Travel from central Melbourne to Sherbrooke Forest, ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train with legs dangling from the carriage, then visit Healesville Sanctuary. Guides such as Gerry, Andy, Margaret, and Mark have added local stories, wildlife facts, and practical help. The day lasts about 8.5 hours and includes transport and admission.

“Matt was an excellent l guide and it was a fantastic trip. Beautiful views and a taste of the wonderful countryside surrounding Melbourne.”

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4.Puffing Billy Steam Train and Penguins Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 26 reviews · from $164Top rated

Travel from Melbourne to the Dandenong Ranges and Phillip Island on a 12-hour guided tour. Ride Puffing Billy for one hour, visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre and The Nobbies, then watch little penguins come ashore at sunset. Guides such as Darren, Gina, Stewart, Cat, and Leelee lead groups of up to 27 people.

“Our guide Darren was incredibly attentive and thoughtful throughout the trip. He gave us enough time at each stop — even though the schedule was quite packed — and shared valuable knowledge, especially about wildlife. You can truly feRead more”

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5.Puffing Billy Train Wildlife Zoo Private Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 4 reviews · 8 hours

Spend eight flexible hours with a private driver-guide, riding Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, visiting Moonlit Sanctuary, and stopping at Brighton Bathing Boxes. Transport and bottled water are included, but train and sanctuary tickets are extra. Guides speak English, Chinese, and French, with pickup from Melbourne CBD and nearby suburbs.

“Very very wonderful experience, my son and daughter really love. We saw train and many wildlife. The train tickets are extremely hard to get and our guide Tom helps us to purchase. Thank you team. Highly recommended.”

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6.[Private Tour] Healesville Sanctuary Wildlife & Puffing Billy Steam Train

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · from $502

Spend about eight hours with a private driver-guide visiting Healesville Sanctuary and riding Puffing Billy steam train. Expect hotel or port pickup, a luxury vehicle, included entry, bottled water, and a flexible route. English and French-speaking guides are available. Russell and Francois are named guides praised for their humor and care.

“Our guide was great. He even stopped to pick up ponchos for everyone because it was raining before he picked us up. He provided snacks and water as well. He went through the sanctuary with us, providing us with so much information about the animals. We had a wonderful time and would highly recommend this trip.”

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