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How To Choose a Great Ocean Road Tour

Read on for more about how to choose a Great Ocean Road tour.

How to Choose a Great Ocean Road Tour
Hi, I'm Nicole!

Nicole R. Zimmerman, born in São Paulo, Brazil and raised (mostly) in Northern California, is a queer Bay Area–based travel journalist, copywriter, and essayist. Nicole has written for Viator/Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, TripSavvy, Grove Collaborative, Insider, and the Los Angeles Times. Her work appears in anthologies such as The Best Women’s Travel Writing and in numerous literary journals including Creative Nonfiction and The Rumpus.

Admire some of the world’s most dramatic coastal scenery on a tour of the Great Ocean Road, located in the state of Victoria. Australia’s famous stretch of coastline includes the sea stacks known as the Twelve Apostles, situated in Port Campbell National Park. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the right tour for you.

1. For the First-Timer

Travelers making their first foray to this popular destination should opt for a full-day tour with multiple stops en route. Possibilities include the seaside towns of Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, Loch Ard Gorge on the Shipwreck Coast, and wildlife viewing in Great Otway National Park. While it makes for a long day from Melbourne, you’ll have more time to linger.

2. For the Independent Traveler

Those traveling with friends or family or simply wanting a less “touristy” experience can enjoy a more intimate excursion on a small-group tour. These include the added benefits of better window views and personalized commentary without the crowds, plus the comfort of transport by minivan or minibus along each bend in the road.

5. For the Natural-History Buff

Aside from glorious photo ops, nature lovers can learn more on an ecotour while exploring the rugged cliffs or visiting koalas and kangaroos. Ask questions catered to your personal interests during a private tour, and benefit from individualized attention while you discover the ecological processes that erode the famous limestone pillars.

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