One big thing to plan for: your $43.03 safari price excludes general admission, so you’ll need to budget for entry separately. If you’re price-checking, that’s the main catch.

Key points before you go

• Off-road 4WD time (about 75 minutes): you spend real minutes out on the plains, not just driving past exhibits
• Smaller experience feel: max 20 people on the tour means less crowd pressure at viewing points
• Live guide storytelling: you’ll get on-board commentary while you search for rhinos, giraffes, zebra, and more
• Closer than the regular ride: the deluxe option is built for stop-and-look moments off the main track
• Weather matters: this experience requires good conditions, so have a flexible day

Open-Range at Werribee: why this safari feels real

Werribee Open Range Zoo is set up so animals move through open country, not behind bars. That alone changes your whole mindset. Instead of scanning through fences, you’re watching wildlife behaving like wildlife—sometimes calmly, sometimes with a little attitude.

The deluxe safari is where the format gets more “this is the savanna” than “this is a zoo.” You’re in a vehicle that goes off the dirt roads and helps you reach better viewing positions, and you’re doing it with live commentary, so the stops feel purposeful rather than random.

If your travel style is “show me the real habitat,” this fits. And if you’re bringing kids, it’s an easy sell because you’re looking for recognizable animals on the spot—giraffes, rhinos, zebra, and antelope-type species are the headline act.

The 75-minute off-road flow: what you’ll do on the plains

Your tour starts at Werribee Open Range Zoo on K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030. From there, you board the safari vehicle with your driver/guide and settle in for the ride (about 1 hour 15 minutes, give or take).

Next comes the best part: the vehicle heads off road so you can get a more natural-feeling route across the open plains. This is also where you’ll slow down. The guide’s job is to help you spot animals quickly and then explain what you’re seeing while you’re close enough to notice behavior, not just silhouettes.

During the safari, you’ll look for animals that share the open-range setup. The big names you should expect to hear about are rhinos, giraffes, zebra, plus other African-style species (the tour description also calls out antelopes). Some sightings can include other animals within the zoo’s broader areas too, depending on where the day’s route lands and what the animals are doing.

After the off-road viewing time, you head back to the meeting point to end the experience. The whole arc stays simple: board, head out, stop often to see animals up close, then return.

Comfort and viewing angles: the “deluxe” part you actually feel

The word deluxe can mean many things, but here it’s mostly about how the ride treats your body and your eyes. People highlight that the truck seating setup helps everyone get a view and that you’re not wedged in like a standard transport bus. That matters when you’re trying to photograph fast-moving action or simply keep your line of sight on a rhino that decides to wander.

There’s also a practical comfort layer that shows up in real-world conditions. On cooler or rainy days, you may want to plan as if you’ll need extra warmth. One report specifically notes blankets, and it makes sense: in open-air vehicles, weather hits harder than you expect.

Size helps too. This tour caps at 20 travelers, which usually means more manageable viewing at stops. You’re not constantly pushing past elbows to see what the guide has spotted.

Wildlife spotting: what you can realistically hope to see

Werribee’s open-range animals can be anywhere, and the guide will shift the route based on what’s out on the plains. Still, the tour is clearly structured around the classic “savanna stars.”

Expect the guide to actively point out and explain:

• Giraffes: often the easiest win for big, close-up photos
• Rhinos: a highlight for many people because the proximity can feel intense (and because the guide is careful about timing and distance)
• Zebra: great for pattern shots and for seeing how they move as a group

Your day could also include other animals living across the broader zoo habitats. One account mentions hippos, lions, kangaroos, bison, camels, and Mongolian horses. You shouldn’t count on all of those on your exact departure, but it’s a good reminder that your guide may connect the “African safari vibe” to other species within the park as you travel.

How to make your sightings better:

• Keep your camera ready and stay alert during the driving segments, not only during stops.
• Listen for the guide’s cue words when animals appear, because that’s when you’ll want to reposition for the best angle.
• Don’t panic when you miss something small. The guide’s commentary is part of the value, and it’s often tied to what you’re about to see next.

The guide makes or breaks it: live commentary in plain language

This safari isn’t silent. You get live commentary on board, and that’s a key part of the “why pay extra” question.

In the feedback you provided, guide quality shows up again and again: people call out that the presenter was friendly, informed, and willing to accommodate questions. Two names come up specifically—Brontë and Jill—as examples of guides who brought energy and strong animal knowledge to the experience.

The commentary style can also be broader than just species facts. One person highlights that the guide tied the zoo’s work to conservation goals and also referenced First Nations people whose land the zoo is on. That kind of context helps the safari feel less like sightseeing and more like understanding why this open-range approach matters.

So if you’re the type who likes your travel with a story attached, you’ll likely enjoy this format.

Price and value: is $43.03 worth it without entry?

Let’s do the honest math: $43.03 per person is only for the safari experience, not general admission. That means your total day cost depends on what you pay for entry tickets separately.

Now the value argument:

• You’re paying for off-road routing plus repeated stop-and-look moments.
• You’re paying for a smaller group experience (max 20 people).
• You’re paying for a guide who gives live commentary while you’re actually out on the plains.

In plain terms, it’s the upgrade from “see animals in an open setting” to “see animals and spend more time close-up while someone actively helps you notice things.”

But here’s the fair counterpoint: some people point out there is also a free open-range option at Werribee. If you’re very cost-sensitive, you might decide that free option covers the basics. If you care about getting closer, getting more viewing time, and want the comfort and structure of the off-road safari vehicle, the deluxe price usually makes sense.

My practical take: if you’re going all-in on Werribee and want the best shot at close rhino and giraffe moments, pay for the upgrade. If you’re just doing a quick visit or you’re traveling on a tight budget, weigh it against the free option.

Getting there smoothly: timing, transport, and where to show up

Your meeting point is at Werribee Open Range Zoo, and the tour ends back where you started. That makes logistics simpler than tours that whisk you off somewhere else.

Still, show up with a sensible buffer. One bad-experience note says the person arrived very early, then ran into confusion because there was no clear instruction about where to go next. So don’t plan to stroll in at the last minute. Get there early enough to find the correct check-in spot and settle.

If you’re not driving, plan transport carefully. The area is near public transportation, and one report mentions a bus from the Metro station that doesn’t run very often. Taxis are waiting at the Metro station, but the same report says there are no taxis waiting at the zoo for the trip back. There’s also a tourist information center by the entrance that can help you sort out options on the ground.

Pack for weather. Even when it’s not extreme, the safari is outside and the ride can feel colder than you’d expect. If your day’s forecast looks iffy, double-check that the experience can operate.

Who this safari suits best (and who might skip it)

This is a strong fit for:

• Families with kids age 8 and up (children must be with an adult)
• People who want the open-range feel but also want a closer, more structured ride than a standard option
• Anyone who likes animal spotting plus a guide who explains what matters

It might be less ideal if:

• You’re very budget-focused and already feel comfortable with a standard viewing tour
• You hate weather-related uncertainty, since the experience can be canceled due to animal welfare or weather conditions

If you’re celebrating something, this kind of “big animal, close-up habitat” outing often lands well—rhino and giraffe moments are the kind you remember.

Should you book the Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee?

Book it if your goal is closer animal viewing with a guide, not just a drive-by look. The combination of off-road routing, live commentary, and a max 20-person group is exactly what turns a zoo day into something safari-like.

Skip or reconsider if the deluxe cost plus entry tickets feels too steep. In that case, you might prefer the free open-range experience and spend your money on other zoo time or food.

My “best decision rule” is simple: if you’re already buying into a Werribee day and you want the most you can get from the open plains, the deluxe safari is a smart upgrade.

FAQ

Is zoo entry included with the deluxe safari?

No. The safari price excludes general admission, so you need to purchase the zoo entry ticket separately.

How long is the deluxe safari adventure?

It runs for about 75 minutes.

What is the minimum age for this tour?

Children must be at least 8 years old, and they must be accompanied by an adult.

How many people are on the safari vehicle?

The tour has a maximum of 20 travelers.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Does the tour include a guide and commentary?

Yes. You’ll have a driver/guide and live commentary during the safari.

I love how the schedule mixes cheese, wine, and chocolate instead of turning into one long tasting room sprint. I also like that the group stays small (up to 12), so guides like Craig, Kurt, Aliot, Tom, and Steven can actually talk to you by name.

The main thing to consider: it is not a pure wine immersion day. You get wine tastings, but lunch at Chandon is extra and the day is built around food plus kangaroos.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Small group size (max 12) for a more personal, chat-friendly day
• Chandon + Yarra Valley views with sparkling wine tasting options and paid add-ons
• Yarra Valley Dairy cheese tasting with both cow and goat cheeses made onsite
• Yering Station cool-climate wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz
• Private chocolate tasting followed by time to browse a shop and cafe
• Kangaroo safari at Kangaroo Ground at the end of the tour for great photo chances

Yarra Valley from Melbourne: how the timing feels

This tour starts in Melbourne at Federation Square, with pickup/drop-off at the bus and coach zone on Russell Ct. Your start time is 11:30am, and the whole day runs about 7 hours (give or take depending on traffic and timing between stops). There’s a mobile ticket, which is handy if you like to travel light and skip paper.

What I like about the timing is that it’s late enough to avoid the early-morning scramble, but not so late that you lose the best daylight for views and photos. Once you leave the city, you get that classic Yarra Valley rhythm: quick breaks, short tastings that actually matter, then a big wildlife payoff at the end.

Stop 1: Farm Fresh produce stop for strawberries

Before you even hit the wineries, you get a quick hit of local farming at Farm Fresh Yarra Valley Produce. The plan is a short stop (about 15 minutes) to try strawberries from the strawberry farm, with the ticket included.

This is a smart warm-up. It gets you thinking about the ingredients you’ll taste later, and it breaks up the drive from Melbourne. If you’re the kind of person who likes to snack between long sits on the road, this early stop helps. It’s short, though, so don’t count on it for a full meal.

Chandon at Yarra Valley: sparkling wine, big views, and paid add-ons

Domaine Chandon is usually the star of the day for many people, and it’s easy to see why. You arrive for about an hour with a lounge setup and stunning Yarra Valley views. This is also where you sample Chandon sparkling wine.

One practical note: the tour includes the structured tasting experience, but things like lunch and extra pours can cost extra. The schedule makes room for you to purchase lunch from the lounge, so you’re not forced to eat before you arrive, but you should expect to pay if you want a sit-down meal here.

If you care about photos, this is one of your best bets. Reviews highlight that the winery setting is a great place to shoot pictures, and even if you’re not buying anything, the view plus tasting makes it feel like you’re getting value for the travel time.

Yarra Valley Dairy cheese tasting: cow and goat, not just one quick bite

Next comes Yarra Valley Dairy, where you get about an hour for cheese tasting at a boutique operation in the valley. The standout here is the variety: you sample a generous range of cows and goats cheeses made onsite.

This is the stop that often convinces people who are not strict wine fans that the tour still makes sense. Cheese tastings give you a different pace. You can slow down, compare flavors, ask questions, and not feel like you’re racing to the next place the minute you leave your seat.

Also, because cheese is the kind of thing you can actually buy and take home, this is a very practical tasting. If you’re planning on a cheese board for later, this is the moment to decide what you want to bring back.

Yering Station winery tasting: Pinot, Chardonnay, Shiraz

After dairy, you head to Yering Station for another hour (about). This is one of the winery stops built around classic cool-climate varieties. Expect tastings that include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz, plus more.

If your idea of wine is more than just one pour, this stop fits well. You’re not stuck doing the same flavor profile over and over, and you get a chance to learn the style differences between the grapes. The tour includes the wine tasting here, which matters for value: you’re not paying extra on top of the base price just to taste.

One more point I’d keep in mind: since the day is packed with cheese and chocolate too, pace yourself. It’s easy to overdo it when everyone around you is buying a few bottles to bring home. Plan to taste, enjoy, and keep room for the sweeter stuff later.

Chocolate and ice cream stop: private tasting, then time to browse

The final food stop before wildlife is Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. You’ll have about an hour here, starting with an exclusive private chocolate tasting, and then you get free time to visit the shop and cafe.

This is where the experience leans playful. People describe the chocolate factory setup as a fun, candy-like dream, and the private tasting is the part that makes it feel more than just a drive-by shop stop. The sampling format gives you the chance to compare flavors instead of just buying the first thing that looks good.

If you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t drink wine, this stop does a lot of the heavy lifting. It also works well for families and mixed groups because chocolate and ice cream are the universal language of I want that.

Kangaroo Ground safari: the best ending to the day

The day closes with Kangaroo Safari time at Kangaroo Ground. You get about 30 minutes to join the safari to a secret spot to see wild kangaroos.

This is a key part of why this tour is different from a standard Yarra Valley wine route. The driving takes you through rural areas, and the guide brings you to a specific viewing spot for the wildlife portion. Many people mention seeing large numbers of kangaroos and getting close enough for strong photos.

A realistic tip: it can be easier to get great shots when you’re ready for quick movements and short bursts of viewing time. Keep your phone/camera charged, and don’t be shy about stepping a little closer when the group stops and the guide signals it’s okay. The whole point is to catch that moment while they’re out and active.

Price and value: what $125.52 really covers

At $125.52 per person, this tour is priced as a mid-range half-day-style excursion from Melbourne, even though the day runs about 7 hours. The best value comes from what’s included:

• Cheese tastings at Yarra Valley Dairy
• Wine tastings at Yering Station
• Chocolate tasting at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
• Round-trip transfers from Melbourne (Federation Square pickup/drop-off)
• A strawberry tasting stop en route

Lunch at Chandon is the big item that is not included, and Chandon-related purchases (like additional drinks or meals) are also your call. But the core tasting content across four major stops is already built in.

When I think about value, I look at the mix. If you only want one type of experience, you might question the price. If you want a day that gives you multiple tastes—wine, cheese, chocolate—plus wildlife, the ticket price starts to make sense quickly. People rate this tour extremely high overall, and the consistent theme is that it packs a lot into a well-paced afternoon.

Group size and the guide factor (why it feels easy)

The tour is capped at 12 travelers, which is a big deal in the Yarra Valley. Small groups generally mean less waiting, more time for questions, and a smoother flow between places. You’ll also feel the difference in the way guides manage timing and keep everyone together.

Guides seen in recent experiences include Aliot, Craig, Kurt/Curtis, Tom, and Steve/Steven. The common thread is a friendly, organized approach, with explanations along the drive and at each stop. Even when you’re just there to sample and take photos, a good guide helps you get the most out of the time you have.

Also, because the day includes multiple tastings, the guide’s pacing matters. Too fast and you miss the flavor comparisons; too slow and you run out of time for the kangaroo stop. This itinerary is built to avoid both extremes.

What to do before you go (practical tips that help)

If you want the day to feel smooth, do these things:

• Eat something light before pickup. There are tastings, but lunch at Chandon is at your own expense.
• Wear shoes you’re comfortable standing in, especially for the kangaroo viewing portion.
• Bring a camera setup you can actually use quickly; the kangaroos can move, and the viewing window is short.
• If you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy wine tastings. Just keep expectations realistic: tastings are part of the schedule, but the day also leans hard into cheese and chocolate.

If you’re sensitive to noise or crowds, the small-group cap will help. It still is a tour day, so you’ll move in a group between venues, but it’s not a huge bus scenario.

Who should book this tour

I’d put this on your shortlist if you want:

• A fun Yarra Valley food-and-wine day without driving
• A mix of cheese + wine + chocolate, not just winery hopping
• A memorable ending that isn’t another tasting room
• A small-group experience from Melbourne with transfers handled for you

I’d think twice if:

• You expect the day to be mostly wine-focused, with long winery time
• You’re not interested in chocolate or cheese at all
• You want an unstructured day for shopping only (this tour is scheduled with tastings and a set order)

Should you book this Yarra Valley Foodies Tour?

If you like variety, this is an easy yes. The itinerary is built around included tastings across Chandon, dairy cheese, classic cool-climate wine, and chocolate, then caps it with a kangaroo safari that gives the whole day a clear climax. At $125.52, you’re paying for transportation plus multiple tasting experiences, not just a single venue.

If you’re a wine-only person, you might feel it’s too balanced with food and wildlife. But if you want a day that tastes like the Yarra Valley and ends with something you can’t buy in a shop, this one fits the bill.

FAQ

Is lunch included on the tour?

Lunch is not included. At Chandon, you can purchase lunch from the lounge at your own expense.

What’s included in the tastings?

The tour includes cheese tastings at Yarra Valley Dairy and a private chocolate tasting at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Wine tastings at Yering Station are included too.

Does the tour include Chandon sparkling wine?

You’ll visit Domaine Chandon for a tasting experience. The tour notes that trying Chandon sparkling wine can involve additional expense, so it’s smart to plan for optional purchases.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 7 hours.

Where does the tour start in Melbourne?

Pickup and drop-off are at Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone, Russell Ct, Melbourne VIC 3000. The start time is 11:30am.

How many people are on the tour?

The maximum group size is 12 travelers.

Is there a kangaroo safari?

Yes. The final stop includes a Kangaroo Safari at Kangaroo Ground for about 30 minutes at a secret spot to see wild kangaroos.

The possible drawback is simple: lunch is not included, and the on-site options at Chandon are more limited than you might hope. If you’re picky with food or have dietary needs, it pays to plan ahead so you feel relaxed instead of stuck making do.

Key things to know before you go

• Small group (max 11–12) keeps the vibe friendly and the stops fast
• Late-morning start from Federation Square lets you enjoy Melbourne before you leave
• Chandon at Domaine Chandon includes a complimentary sparkling wine and boutique time
• Classic tastings in “food order”: cheese → wine → chocolate, with built-in breaks
• Golden-hour kangaroo viewing at a known spot in the lower Yarra, plus a money-back kangaroo promise

A late start that still delivers the right kind of light

This tour is built for people who want the Yarra Valley experience without sacrificing your morning in Melbourne. It departs at 11:30am, so you can brunch, shop, or just take your time getting oriented in the city first.

Then, the timing works in your favor. Most of the day is set up so you arrive for sunset kangaroo viewing when the animals are more likely to be out and about. In practice, that means the day feels like an afternoon you’ll actually enjoy, not a frantic sprint.

Federation Square pickup and a comfortable small-group drive

You meet behind Federation Square, near the NGV rear entrance on the corner of Flinders Street and Russell Street. Look for the white bus with Yarra Valley Touring written on the side.

The group size is capped at max 11 guests, and that matters more than you might think. With fewer people, tastings happen quicker once you arrive, and you spend more time listening to your guide and less time waiting in line or cramming into awkward seating.

Strawberry farm stop: quick fresh break on the way out

About an hour into the drive, you’ll make a bonus stop to buy fresh strawberries from a strawberry farm for everyone to share. It’s not the longest stop, but it adds a fun local touch early in the day and helps break up the travel.

If you’re the type who likes to snack while you move, this is a good moment to pick up something simple and seasonal. Also, remember you’ll be tasting a lot later, so don’t overdo it here.

Domaine Chandon: sparkling wine, views, and time for lunch plans

Domaine Chandon is one of those stops that feels special even if you’re not a hard-core wine person. You’ll get a table with a view, plus a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, and you’ll learn how champagne-style bubbles are produced and what Chandon’s story looks like within the Moët et Chandon group.

What I like here is the balance. You’re not just handed a glass and left to wander. You also get time to explore the boutique and, importantly, you can choose how you handle lunch.

Lunch is not included, and there’s a practical note to keep in mind: the lounge menu can be fairly limited. If you’re coming with a strong appetite or you have dietary preferences, I’d plan for it by eating a fuller breakfast, packing a small snack, or bringing cash for a flexible lunch decision on-site.

Yarra Valley dairy: generous soft-cheese tastings

Next up is a cheese tasting at a small family-owned boutique dairy. You’ll sample a range of cheeses made onsite, and the experience is designed so you can actually taste, not just nibble a token piece.

This stop is a big part of why the tour feels like real “foodies” rather than just drinking wine. Cheese pairs with wine naturally, and tasting it earlier helps you notice flavors better later when you switch to cool-climate reds and whites.

If you’re sensitive to strong flavors, start with the milder cheeses first and work your way toward stronger ones. That way you can enjoy the full spread instead of getting overwhelmed too early.

Yering Station Winery: private tasting in a historic setting

At Yering Station Winery, you’ll enjoy a private tasting. It’s a great match for the rest of the day because the wines you sample are rooted in the Yarra Valley’s cool-climate style—think classics like Pinot Noir.

This is where your guide’s personality can make a real difference. Guides such as Kurt, Craig, Steve, Tom, and others are mentioned again and again for keeping things fun, paced, and personal—one reason people remember this tour as more than just a tasting run.

A smart move: use this stop to ask what to try if you’re unsure. At least some guides specifically call out options like a Shiraz and Viognier blend at Yering Station. Even if the exact lineup varies, the key idea is the same: go in curious and let your guide point you to a tasting that fits your taste.

Chocolate and ice cream at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

After wine and cheese, it’s a relief to switch to something sweet. The tour includes private chocolate tastings at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, plus time for a break and exploring the shop.

This stop isn’t just about tasting a couple of pieces and moving on. You’ll learn about coverture chocolate (a style where chocolate is formed over ingredients) and sample a wide range of flavors. One standout detail: ingredients are described as coming from their own gardens, which helps explain why the flavors can feel more distinctive than standard mass-produced chocolate.

And yes, the shop is big—over 200 chocolate, truffle, and ice cream products made onsite. If you’re buying gifts, this is your main opportunity. If you already know you’re the “I’ll grab one thing” type, set a budget before you get tempted by the full display.

The kangaroo safari: golden hour in the lower Yarra

The afternoon ends with what most people are really here for: wild kangaroos at sunset. You’ll travel into the lower Yarra Valley, where kangaroos tend to hide out during the day, and you’ll stop at a place where you can walk as close as possible for photos.

Here’s the nuance you should know before you pin your day on a perfect outcome. The operator advertises an exclusive money back guarantee that you’ll see wild kangaroos. At the same time, they also note that wildlife sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed. The best chance comes from visiting a known location during golden hour, which is exactly how the tour is timed.

In real-world terms, this is still one of the best ways to experience kangaroos without trying to figure out the logistics yourself. And it’s memorable even when you only spot a few, because you’re not looking at zoos—you’re watching them in their natural routine.

Practical tip for photos: keep your camera ready when you arrive at the stop. The best moments can happen between “let’s get settled” and “we’ll start walking,” so don’t wait until you’ve fully found your settings.

How the day stays fun instead of food-coma

The tour lasts about 7 hours, but it doesn’t feel that long because the stops are spaced out with clear pacing. You’ll start with travel, then a fresh strawberry break, then Chandon, cheese, wine, chocolate, and finally the safari.

It also helps that the tastings are designed to be ready quickly after arrival. Many people note that tastings are set up efficiently once you get there, so your day doesn’t stall with long waits.

One more thing: the tour’s order makes sense. If you eat the sweeter stuff later, you don’t end up with your palate dulled too early. And having cheese before wine tends to make you more aware of texture and flavor shifts when you start tasting cool-climate grapes.

Price and value: why $123 can work (if you like tastings)

At $123 per person, you’re paying for more than transportation. You’re paying for a full schedule of paid tastings and a guide who keeps the day flowing—plus small-group comfort that’s usually pricier than big-bus tours.

Here’s the value math in plain terms:

• Multiple tasting experiences: sparkling at Chandon, wine at Yering Station, cheese, and chocolate/ice cream.
• Time efficiency: you don’t need to coordinate separate bookings across the valley.
• Sunset kangaroos: you get the best timing without doing the searching yourself.

The main thing to factor in is lunch. Since lunch is not included, you’ll likely add some extra spend depending on what you choose at Chandon or other stops. If you plan for that cost (and don’t assume lunch is bundled into the price), the overall value feels fair for the amount you fit in.

Who this tour is best for (and who should rethink it)

This is a great pick if you like the “try a bit of everything” style of travel. You’re mixing wine, cheese, chocolate, and animals, all in one afternoon, and the small group size keeps it social without feeling chaotic.

It’s also a good option for people who want a lighter morning in Melbourne. The late departure means you won’t feel like you must rush your first half-day in the city.

A couple of fit notes from the provided info:

• Alcohol is served, so you must be 18+ to buy or drink in licensed venues in Australia.
• Kids aged 3+ are welcome, but it’s not suitable for children under 2.
• Wheelchair users aren’t listed as suitable for the tour.

Tips to make it smooth without overthinking

Bring what they ask for: passport or ID, a camera, cash, and a reusable water bottle. Having cash helps if you want to buy lunch or grab extras in the boutiques and shops.

For food planning, treat the day like a tasting-heavy experience. Eat enough before you go, and don’t assume the Chandon lunch option will feel like a full restaurant meal.

Also, wear shoes you’re comfortable walking in. The safari stop includes walking close to kangaroos, and you want to stay focused on the experience, not your feet.

Should you book it?

I think you should book this tour if you want a structured Yarra Valley day that’s actually built around taste and timing. The standout combo is Chandon + Yering Station + cheese + chocolate, with the kangaroo safari as the emotional closer.

Skip it—or at least reconsider—if you hate tasting sessions or you need a very flexible schedule with long free time. And if lunch options are a big deal for you, plan around the fact that lunch isn’t included and menus may be limited.

If you match the vibe—food, wine, small group, animals at sunset—this is one of the more satisfying ways to spend a day just outside Melbourne.

FAQ

What time does the tour leave Melbourne?

The tour departs Melbourne at 11:30am from the pickup point behind Federation Square near the NGV rear entrance.

Where exactly is the meeting point?

Meet behind Federation Square, at the corner of Flinders Street and Russell Street (NGV rear entrance). Look for the white bus with Yarra Valley Touring written on the side.

How long is the tour?

The total duration is about 7 hours, returning to the same pickup point in the early evening.

How big is the group?

It’s a small group with a maximum of 11–12 participants.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included. You’ll have time to purchase food at Domaine Chandon or at another stop during the tour.

What tastings are included?

You’ll have sparkling wine at Chandon, a gourmet cheese tasting, a private wine tasting at Yering Station, and chocolate (and ice cream) tastings at the chocolaterie.

Can children join?

Children aged 3 years and above are welcome. It’s not suitable for children under 2.

Do I need to be 18 to drink alcohol?

Yes. You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol or drink in licensed venues in Australia.

Is the kangaroo viewing guaranteed?

The operator advertises an exclusive money back guarantee that you’ll see wild kangaroos. They also note that wildlife sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed, so they visit a known location during golden hour for the best chance.

What should I bring?

Bring passport or ID, camera, cash, and a reusable water bottle.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you may have the option to reserve and pay later.