Steam trains, native wildlife and mountain air
A fun, flexible day out in the Dandenong Ranges
This private day tour blends two of Victoria’s most loved experiences – a heritage steam train ride through the forest, and an up-close visit with some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife. Puffing Billy is a scenic, slow-moving train that winds its way through tall mountain ash trees and fern gullies in the Dandenong Ranges.
At Healesville Sanctuary, you’ll get the chance to meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and more – all in a bushland setting that feels worlds away from the city. It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and full of local character.
Price: This is a private tour. Enquire for price (varies based on group size)
Duration: ~ 9 hours
Pick up: Anywhere in Melbourne CBD – hotel, apartment, or accommodation
Drop off: Back at your location around 6pm
Included: Private guide, luxury vehicle, Puffing Billy train ticket, Healesville Sanctuary entry, bottled water
Vehicle: Comfortable 12-seater minibus with reclining seats and USB chargers
A classic Melbourne day trip, done right
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Details
This tour is great for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to escape the city for a day and breathe in some fresh mountain air. Puffing Billy is one of Australia’s oldest and most charming steam trains, and Healesville Sanctuary is the best place near Melbourne to see native animals in a natural setting.
You’ll be picked up in the morning and head east into the hills. First stop: Puffing Billy, where you’ll hop aboard for a relaxed ride through the forest. It’s all open-air carriages, classic charm and great views. You can even dangle your legs over the side if you feel like it.
After the train, it’s off to Healesville Sanctuary – a wildlife park set in the bush, where you’ll see animals like kangaroos, dingoes, emus, platypus, and wombats up close. It’s a great chance to get photos, learn a bit about conservation, and maybe even spot a few joeys.
There’ll be time to stop for lunch at a local café (own expense), take some quiet walks, and enjoy the peaceful pace of the Dandenongs.
We offer door-to-door pickup from anywhere in Melbourne – your hotel, apartment or even the airport. Standard pickup time is 9am, and we aim to have you back around 6pm. If you have a specific schedule in mind, just let us know – we’re happy to adjust.
Upgrade your day with optional extras like:
Just let us know what interests you most and we’ll tailor the route.
*varies depending on number of people
Scenic, peaceful and plenty to see
This isn’t a rushed group tour or a full-day hike. It’s a relaxed, private day trip that’s perfect for anyone wanting to ride a historic steam train, meet native animals, and enjoy the Dandenong Ranges without trying to cram too much in.
Stop 1
This 100+ year-old steam train is all charm and nostalgia. You’ll ride through fern gullies and forest, waving at walkers and soaking up the mountain air.
Ride the iconic Puffing Billy Railway through the forest
Sit in open-sided carriages and feel the wind in your hair
Learn the story behind one of Australia’s most-loved railways
Stop 2
We’ll stop at a local café or bakery – relaxed, simple, tasty – with views of the valley or bush.
Grab a fresh, local lunch
Enjoy time to sit, chat and take in the surroundings
Ask your guide anything – they're full of tips and stories
Stop 3
See Australia’s wildlife up close in a peaceful bushland setting. No fences in your photos, just a calm, authentic experience.
See kangaroos, wombats, koalas, emus, dingoes and more
Catch the “Spirits of the Sky” bird show if timing allows
Learn about animal rescue and conservation in Australia
End
Back in the van for an easy return to Melbourne by around 6pm. Time for a nap, photo sort or start planning your next trip.
Hear from guests who joined our Puffing Billy & Healesville day out.
From first enquiry to final drop-off, we keep it simple. Whether it’s a coastal drive, wine region, or wildlife day trip, booking your private tour is quick, personal, and completely hassle-free.
Tell us your preferred date, group size, and any special requests - it only takes a minute.
We’ll reply within 24 hours with your quote and all the details you need.
Once you’re happy with the details, we’ll lock in you date and send you confirmation.
We’ll handle the rest, from hotel pickup to drop-off, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
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Tell us your travel dates and group size and we’ll get back to you with a quote.
