Skip to main content
Backpackers
Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Small Group Tour
Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Small Group Tour image 2
Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Small Group Tour image 3

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Small Group Tour

4,416 Reviews

12 hours

Overview

This is a full-day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne that flips the usual route, heading straight to the Twelve Apostles first instead of arriving later with the big crowds. The main draw is seeing the Shipwreck Coast in the quieter morning light, then working back through other classic stops including Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge and the Razorback. You also pass through Apollo Bay and Lorne, with a professional guide, national park fees and air-conditioned minivan transport included.

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Why backpackers love it

For travellers with limited time, this is an easy way to do the Great Ocean Road without hiring a car or dealing with route planning. The reverse schedule is the real advantage, giving you the biggest sights before the usual rush, which means a better shot at decent photos and a less crowded experience. The small-group setup feels more manageable than a big coach, and the included guide, park fees and transport keep the day straightforward. It’s not a cheap-budget trip, but for a 12-hour day covering a lot of ground, it offers solid value.

What to expect

It’s a long day out, travelling in a small-group minibus with commentary along the way. The reverse itinerary means you start with the headline sights around the Twelve Apostles and wider Shipwreck Coast area, including at least four stops: the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge and the Razorback. After that, the day continues through coastal towns including Apollo Bay and Lorne, with wildlife spotting along the route and guaranteed koala sightings. Pickup and drop-off are available from designated meeting points, and the tour runs in all weather, so bring layers and dress for the conditions.

What's included

  • Bottled water
  • Professional guide
  • National Park fees
  • Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
  • Guaranteed to skip the long lines
  • Live commentary on board
  • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • Multilingual Interactive Audio Guide + a complimentary Melbourne City Self-Guided Audio Guide Tour

Features

  • Reach the Twelve Apostles in the morning light before the usual tour bus crowds
  • Includes four Shipwreck Coast highlights, from Gibson Steps to Loch Ard Gorge and the Razorback
  • Small-group minibus travel with guide commentary, park fees and designated pickup points included

Details

Additional details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 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.

Prices, availability, and cancellation policies are managed by the tour provider and may change. Please confirm all details on the booking page before purchasing.

From A$137.64A$148.00

Book