Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: Beat the Crowds Early

From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+

Harshita

United States

Jul 2025

5/5

‌

The 12 apostles! OFCCC, It's the most surreal piece of nature! Vance is the sweetest tour guide! You have sufficient time to do it all. It's the perfect, one day trip from melbourne! keep in mind it takes the whole day, just be on time and make the most out of it!

David

Australia

Aug 2025

5/5

This is not the first time Pam and I have taken a cruise to see the seals. The newer, larger boat has more comfortable seating indoors that allows one to see the passing scenery out of the wind. there is plenty of outdoors deck space to view and photograph the myriad of seals when the colony is reached.

Australia

Nov 2025

4/5

The cruise was great. Although the inclusions mentioned cake with tea or coffee, we only received cake. Some staff members were not very friendly. Other than that, the scenery and the one-hour ride were enjoyable. The Penguin Parade was a bit of a disappointment. If you really want to see the penguins clearly, I’d recommend purchasing premium tickets, the view from there is much better I believe . The general viewing area wasn’t good at all; we could barely see anything, only shadows.

John

Australia

Nov 2025

5/5

We loved the trip. The crew were so friendly and helpful. There were plenty of seating for everyone. I haven't seen that side of Phillip Island before. This is a definite must do!

Anto

Australia

Aug 2025

5/5

I loved the tour. The guide is very helpful and his knowledge on things made the tour very much enjoyable as well as informative! Had a very good time. Overall amazing experience.

Miles

Jul 2025

4/5

Did this tour with my girlfriend. Views are next level, but it is a long day of driving. The guide was great and the stops were well spaced. Bring a good camera!

Stefan

Jul 2025

5/5

So so glad we took this tour. The guide (Ann) was super friendly and knew all the secret spots. Got amazing photos and saw kangaroos for the first time!

What’s different about the Reverse Route?

The reverse tour flips the traditional Great Ocean Road itinerary, starting with the Twelve Apostles instead of ending there.
This simple change means you arrive before the big crowds, enjoy better lighting for photos, and experience the rest of the coast at a more relaxed pace.
It’s all the same iconic highlights — just in a smarter, less rushed order.
Lunch stops are often quieter and more relaxed, as you’re not arriving at the same time as dozens of other groups. This can also mean better food availability and faster service.

Major stops along the way

1/6

The Twelve Apostles

The Apostles are busiest around noon when most tours arrive. With the reverse itinerary, you get there earlier, when the lookout is quieter and the light is softer for photography. It’s one of the best perks of this route and sets the tone for a less crowded, more enjoyable day.

Loch Ard Gorge

Site of the infamous 1878 Loch Ard shipwreck, which killed 52 of the 54 passengers and crew. Located just a few minutes from the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is one of the most historically significant and visually striking sites along the Great Ocean Road. Today, visitors can walk down to the sandy beach, explore interpretive signage about the shipwreck, and view the gorge’s sheer limestone walls carved by centuries of wave action. This stop offers a blend of natural beauty and compelling maritime history.

Razorback & Island Archway

Accessible via a short path from the Loch Ard Gorge car park, these iconic formations are prime examples of the Shipwreck Coast’s dynamic geology. The Razorback is a long, narrow limestone ridge that stands alone in the surf, with its shape sculpted by wind and saltwater over thousands of years.

Spot Koalas and Roos along the way

Koala spotting in eucalyptus trees around Kennett River is still part of the plan. With the crowds trailing behind you, you’ll often have better chances to see native wildlife in a more peaceful setting. Some tours also make a stop for kangaroo sightings on the return leg.

Walk through Rainforests in the Otways

Take a breather in Great Otway National Park, where fern-filled gullies and towering trees create a cool, green break from the coast. Most reverse tours stop here for a short rainforest walk, often with more flexibility in timing, as the schedule is less tight.

Coastal towns

Since you’re not racing toward the Apostles, you can enjoy longer, more relaxed stops at towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne. Grab a bite, browse local shops, or take a quick beach stroll — without worrying about the next big stop looming ahead.

Is the Reverse Tour right for you?

You want to beat the crowds

Visiting the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge earlier in the day means fewer people and more space to explore.

You care about smoother logistics

Less waiting at photo stops, facilities, and cafés—especially in peak season.

You’re into photography

The morning light along the Shipwreck Coast often makes for clearer, softer images without the glare of harsh midday sun.

You prefer avoiding coastal night driving

By heading inland later in the day, the drive back to Melbourne feels more relaxed.

You like a fresh take on popular routes

Seeing the landscapes in reverse gives you a new perspective and often a quieter, more personal connection with the sights.

Frequently asked questions about the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour

What time does the reverse tour usually start and end?

Most reverse tours depart Melbourne early, around 6:30am and return by 7pm to 8pm. It’s a full-day experience designed to make the most of daylight hours.

Do I still get to see all the major sights on the reverse route?

Yes, you’ll visit all the key stops — Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park, Kennett River, Razorback, and koala spotting areas. The difference is just the order of the itinerary.

Is lunch included in the reverse tour?

Some tours include a meal or stop at a coastal café, while others allow time to buy your own. Check the inclusions before booking to see what works best for you.

Will there be photo stops along the way?

Yes, your guide will make regular stops for photos, walks, and short breaks — especially at scenic points along the Shipwreck Coast and the rainforests.

Can I book a reverse tour with hotel pickup?

Many reverse tours offer hotel pickups from central Melbourne locations. You can confirm the pickup point and timing while booking your ticket.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, the reverse tour is suitable for most age groups. It's a coach tour with short walks, scenic breaks, and comfortable pacing — just remember it’s a long day on the road.

Beat the crowds and travel in a luxury transport on a small-group reverse tour.

Book this experience between Feb 7 to Mar 10, 2025 and travel anytime to make use of this exclusive 5% off promo.
Great for: Families and senior travelers looking for a premium, relaxed, and well-paced tour with expert commentary and uncrowded views.
What you'll get: Luxury deluxe bus, small group setting, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, expert guide, guided rainforest walk.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, Razorback, Mutton Bird Lookout, Loch Ard Gorge, Mait’s Rest, Kennett River, Anglesea.
Don't miss: Rare yellow-bellied gliders flying from tree to tree during your guided rainforest walk at Great Otway National Park

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Small group of up to 5 or 13 people (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
Expert guide
Guided rainforest walk
Luxury deluxe bus
Vanilla flavor coke zero

Tip: Stop at Apollo Bay Seafood Cafe for lunch to savor their fresh oysters and fresh flake, blue grenadier and potato cakes.
The minibus tour for 5 people is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years, while the minibus tour for 13 people is restricted for guests under the age of 6 years.
Pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.
The central meeting point for this tour will be the Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).
The tour will stop at Apollo Bay for lunch and at Anglesea for evening tea and ice cream (at own expense).

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better views of the 12 Apostles, and a picnic lunch.

Great for: Travelers who value quieter stops and front-row views. And those who want to enjoy lunch on the go.
What you'll get: Picnic lunch, live commentary by an expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio and text translation app in 10 languages.
Must-see sights: Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mutton Bird Island, Razorback Lookout, Melba Gully, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Spotting the Otway Black Snail and swamp wallabies on your guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
Live commentary by expert driver guide
Picnic lunch
Morning tea and snacks
National Park entry fees
Audio & text translation app in 10 languages

Tip: See the Tom and Eva limestone rock formations, named after the two survivors of the 1878 shipwreck at Loch Ard Gorge.
Your safety comes first. So, visitors with mobility issues are restricted from participating in this experience.
Guests under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult or guardian
As this tour includes a light lunch, please notify the operator of any dietary requirements or food allergies before departure.
The tour will stop for a picnic-style lunch at Loch Ard Gorge or the 12 Apostles.
The tour starts at 7.35am from select pick-up points in Melbourne inner city. If your hotel is not in the pick-up zone, you can reach the meeting point, Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better light.

Great for: Solo travelers and families looking for a relaxed tour with personalized attention from their guide sans the crowd.
What you'll get: Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road, round-trip transfers from Melbourne CBD, expert guide, a small group setting.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Kennett River, Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, Mutton Bird Island, Teddy’s Lookout, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Enjoying the view of the Saint George river winding down fern covered valleys from Teddy’s Lookout at Lorne.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Small group of up to 12 people
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne CBD
Round-trip hotel transfer from Melbourne CBD (as per option selected)
Expert guide
Guided forest walk

Tip: Take the 10-minute drive from Lorne to see Erskine Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls of Great Ocean Road.
Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years.
The tour starts at 6.50am from State Theatre in Arts Centre Melbourne.
The tour stops for lunch at Port Campbell or Apollo Bay (at your own expense).

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A 1-hour sunrise hot air balloon flight over Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula with return transfers and buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong Hotel.

Everything you get: A 1-hour hot air balloon flight at sunrise over Geelong and the Bellarine region. Includes return transfers between Rydges Geelong Hotel and the launch/landing sites, balloon inflation viewing, assistance with pack-down, and a post-flight buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong.
Why choose this: A great option for those exploring the Great Ocean Road and surrounding areas, this balloon flight offers a rare aerial view of Victoria’s coastal and rural landscapes, with breakfast and transfers included.

Inclusions

1-hour sunrise hot air balloon flight
One-way hotel pick-up from the CBD (must be pre-booked)
Round-trip transfers between the meeting point and launch/ landing sites
Buffet breakfast after the flight

Exclusions

Breakfast for non-ticket holders

Transport costs to the meeting point
Cancellation or disruption expenses
Pick-up outside the CBD

Bring a copy of your ticket and a valid ID.
The following are not permitted: high heels, open-toed shoes, bare feet, pets, weapons, sharp objects, smoking, vaping, large bags, littering, or unaccompanied minors.
This experience is not suitable for those with certain physical limitations or for individuals who are heavily pregnant.
You must be physically able to climb in and out of the balloon basket with minimal assistance.
The meeting point is Rydges Geelong Hotel. The exact meeting time will be shared the evening before your flight—usually 1.5 hours before sunrise.

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Beat the crowds and travel in a luxury transport on a small-group reverse tour.

Book this experience between Feb 7 to Mar 10, 2025 and travel anytime to make use of this exclusive 5% off promo.
Great for: Families and senior travelers looking for a premium, relaxed, and well-paced tour with expert commentary and uncrowded views.
What you'll get: Luxury deluxe bus, small group setting, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, expert guide, guided rainforest walk.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, Razorback, Mutton Bird Lookout, Loch Ard Gorge, Mait’s Rest, Kennett River, Anglesea.
Don't miss: Rare yellow-bellied gliders flying from tree to tree during your guided rainforest walk at Great Otway National Park

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Small group of up to 5 or 13 people (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
Expert guide
Guided rainforest walk
Luxury deluxe bus
Vanilla flavor coke zero

Tip: Stop at Apollo Bay Seafood Cafe for lunch to savor their fresh oysters and fresh flake, blue grenadier and potato cakes.
The minibus tour for 5 people is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years, while the minibus tour for 13 people is restricted for guests under the age of 6 years.
Pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.
The central meeting point for this tour will be the Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).
The tour will stop at Apollo Bay for lunch and at Anglesea for evening tea and ice cream (at own expense).

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better views of the 12 Apostles, and a picnic lunch.

Great for: Travelers who value quieter stops and front-row views. And those who want to enjoy lunch on the go.
What you'll get: Picnic lunch, live commentary by an expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio and text translation app in 10 languages.
Must-see sights: Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mutton Bird Island, Razorback Lookout, Melba Gully, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Spotting the Otway Black Snail and swamp wallabies on your guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
Live commentary by expert driver guide
Picnic lunch
Morning tea and snacks
National Park entry fees
Audio & text translation app in 10 languages

Tip: See the Tom and Eva limestone rock formations, named after the two survivors of the 1878 shipwreck at Loch Ard Gorge.
Your safety comes first. So, visitors with mobility issues are restricted from participating in this experience.
Guests under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult or guardian
As this tour includes a light lunch, please notify the operator of any dietary requirements or food allergies before departure.
The tour will stop for a picnic-style lunch at Loch Ard Gorge or the 12 Apostles.
The tour starts at 7.35am from select pick-up points in Melbourne inner city. If your hotel is not in the pick-up zone, you can reach the meeting point, Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better light.

Great for: Solo travelers and families looking for a relaxed tour with personalized attention from their guide sans the crowd.
What you'll get: Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road, round-trip transfers from Melbourne CBD, expert guide, a small group setting.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Kennett River, Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, Mutton Bird Island, Teddy’s Lookout, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Enjoying the view of the Saint George river winding down fern covered valleys from Teddy’s Lookout at Lorne.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
Small group of up to 12 people
Round-trip transfers from Melbourne CBD
Round-trip hotel transfer from Melbourne CBD (as per option selected)
Expert guide
Guided forest walk

Tip: Take the 10-minute drive from Lorne to see Erskine Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls of Great Ocean Road.
Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years.
The tour starts at 6.50am from State Theatre in Arts Centre Melbourne.
The tour stops for lunch at Port Campbell or Apollo Bay (at your own expense).

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A 1-hour sunrise hot air balloon flight over Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula with return transfers and buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong Hotel.

Everything you get: A 1-hour hot air balloon flight at sunrise over Geelong and the Bellarine region. Includes return transfers between Rydges Geelong Hotel and the launch/landing sites, balloon inflation viewing, assistance with pack-down, and a post-flight buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong.
Why choose this: A great option for those exploring the Great Ocean Road and surrounding areas, this balloon flight offers a rare aerial view of Victoria’s coastal and rural landscapes, with breakfast and transfers included.

Inclusions

1-hour sunrise hot air balloon flight
One-way hotel pick-up from the CBD (must be pre-booked)
Round-trip transfers between the meeting point and launch/ landing sites
Buffet breakfast after the flight

Exclusions

Breakfast for non-ticket holders

Transport costs to the meeting point
Cancellation or disruption expenses
Pick-up outside the CBD

Bring a copy of your ticket and a valid ID.
The following are not permitted: high heels, open-toed shoes, bare feet, pets, weapons, sharp objects, smoking, vaping, large bags, littering, or unaccompanied minors.
This experience is not suitable for those with certain physical limitations or for individuals who are heavily pregnant.
You must be physically able to climb in and out of the balloon basket with minimal assistance.
The meeting point is Rydges Geelong Hotel. The exact meeting time will be shared the evening before your flight—usually 1.5 hours before sunrise.

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guided Tours

NaN

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour

Beat the crowds and travel in a luxury transport on a small-group reverse tour.

Book this experience between Feb 7 to Mar 10, 2025 and travel anytime to make use of this exclusive 5% off promo.
Great for: Families and senior travelers looking for a premium, relaxed, and well-paced tour with expert commentary and uncrowded views.
What you'll get: Luxury deluxe bus, small group setting, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, expert guide, guided rainforest walk.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, Razorback, Mutton Bird Lookout, Loch Ard Gorge, Mait’s Rest, Kennett River, Anglesea.
Don't miss: Rare yellow-bellied gliders flying from tree to tree during your guided rainforest walk at Great Otway National Park

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

12 hr.

Transfers included

Guided Tours

NEW

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour with Lunch

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better views of the 12 Apostles, and a picnic lunch.

Great for: Travelers who value quieter stops and front-row views. And those who want to enjoy lunch on the go.
What you'll get: Picnic lunch, live commentary by an expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio and text translation app in 10 languages.
Must-see sights: Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mutton Bird Island, Razorback Lookout, Melba Gully, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Spotting the Otway Black Snail and swamp wallabies on your guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

13 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Guided Tours

NaN

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour

Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better light.

Great for: Solo travelers and families looking for a relaxed tour with personalized attention from their guide sans the crowd.
What you'll get: Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road, round-trip transfers from Melbourne CBD, expert guide, a small group setting.
Must-see sights: 12 Apostles, Kennett River, Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, Mutton Bird Island, Teddy’s Lookout, Great Otway National Park.
Don't miss: Enjoying the view of the Saint George river winding down fern covered valleys from Teddy’s Lookout at Lorne.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

12 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Hot Air Balloon

NEW

Great Ocean Balloon Flight - Geelong/Bellarine at Sunrise

A 1-hour sunrise hot air balloon flight over Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula with return transfers and buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong Hotel.

Everything you get: A 1-hour hot air balloon flight at sunrise over Geelong and the Bellarine region. Includes return transfers between Rydges Geelong Hotel and the launch/landing sites, balloon inflation viewing, assistance with pack-down, and a post-flight buffet breakfast at Rydges Geelong.
Why choose this: A great option for those exploring the Great Ocean Road and surrounding areas, this balloon flight offers a rare aerial view of Victoria’s coastal and rural landscapes, with breakfast and transfers included.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

4 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Meals included

Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: Beat the crowds and catch the best views

From happy customers

Top things to do in Melbourne

What’s different about the Reverse Route?

Major stops along the way

The Twelve Apostles

Loch Ard Gorge

Razorback & Island Archway

Spot Koalas and Roos along the way

Walk through Rainforests in the Otways

Coastal towns

Is the Reverse Tour right for you?

You want to beat the crowds

You care about smoother logistics

You’re into photography

You prefer avoiding coastal night driving

You like a fresh take on popular routes

Frequently asked questions about the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour

Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: Beat the crowds and catch the best views

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour with Lunch

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Reverse Tour

Great Ocean Balloon Flight - Geelong/Bellarine at Sunrise