26 ECO-certified tours around Australia

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified tours.

When organising our travel, ensuring that we leave the area as good (or better) than before is so important. And nobody knows the environment better than the locals, which is why tours are such a great, hassle-free way to see the sights.

We’ve found the top ECO-certified tours in Australia that not only take the stress out of planning for you but are also proven to take sustainability seriously. Ecotourism Australia’s ECO-certified experiences are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices, so travellers are sure to find high-quality nature-based tourism experiences no matter what their interests are. Here are some of our favourites.

We’ve also covered the top ECO-certified attractions and accommodations in another article to help you round out your sustainable travel options.

1. AAT Kings – Inspiring Journeys

Discover ancient cultures and rugged destinations with the guiding hand of an expert at Inspiring Journeys. It offers the perfect balance of freedom from the stress of holiday planning, and just enough flexibility to shape your journey with a choice of optional experiences.

2. Coral Expeditions

As an Australian eco-accredited expedition cruise line, Coral Expeditions take small groups of eco-aware travellers to the most beautiful and remote destinations in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the South Pacific and Indian Ocean Islands.

3. Trek Tasmania, Tas

Trek Tasmania is a boutique tour company focused on taking small groups onto the paths less travelled and into the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness. Their specialty is offering quality, deep immersion wilderness experiences, and their commitment is to sustainable eco-tourism principles.

The Overland Track is an Australian bushwalking track, traversing Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It's walked by more than nine thousand people each year, with numbers limited in the warmer months (Image: Tayla Gentle)
Trekking through Tasmania is the best way to see it. (Image: Tayla Gentle)

4. Moonshadow Cruises, NSW

With vessels operating from Port Stephens Harbour, Moonshadow Cruises offer a range of scheduled cruises and private charter options. In port or at sea, for whale or dolphin watching, lunch or dinner, corporate events, birthdays, weddings or Christmas parties.

Couple enjoying a dolphin watching cruise with Moonshadow Cruises in Port Stephens. (Image: Destination NSW)
Spot a dolphin on a Moonshadow Cruise. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Elixir Journeys, Central Coast, NSW

At Elixir Journeys, they are all about private and small-group nature-based experiences that will engage the senses, hyper-local products with low-carbon impact and great hosts. All of the experiences are crafted with attention to detail, love, and little luxury touches, and ensure just the right balance of activity and relaxation.

6. Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Vic

On the Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, everything is taken care of. The only job is to put one foot in front of the other. They’ll show you the way, carry all the extras on their back and point out natural features. Plus, you’ll get scrumptious lunches, daypacks and walking sticks, cool lemonade and soothing foot baths at the end of each walk. Return each evening to the private eco-lodge where you’ll be served gourmet meals complemented by local wines and beers.

The Twelve Apostles at sunset (Image: Visit Victoria)
The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk is the ultimate tour. (Image: Visit Victoria)

7. Flinders Ranges Odysseys, SA

Tour guides from Flinders Ranges Odysseys, a sister company to Kangaroo Island Odysseys have the same passion for the outback of South Australia as they do for Kangaroo Island. When touring with Flinders Ranges Odysseys tour guides, you won’t believe the incredible mountain range spanning 430 kilometres, its ancient landscapes, significant aboriginal heritage, and its pioneering history.

8. SA Eco Tours, SA

Discover one of the world’s oldest landscapes, the vast areas of unspoilt wilderness, unique wildlife and rich traditional aboriginal culture that is Outback South Australia. Taking small group eco safaris to the Flinders Ranges and the Yorke Peninsula, SA Eco Tours offers high-end private charters and special interest groups. SA Eco Tours offers authentic encounters, allows maximum freedom and has the utmost respect for the environment, nature and local people.

9. Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures, SA

Having seen and experienced the island from both land and sea with its unspoilt beaches, breathtaking scenery and abundance of wildlife, Kangaroo Island Marine Tours can provide you with an insight into the true beauty of Kangaroo Island.

Dolphin jumping. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
See a dolphin at Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

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10. Untamed Escapes, SA and WA

Untamed Escapes connects travellers from all walks of life with adventure, wildlife, wellness and epicurean experiences in nature. Guided by the region’s most passionate storytellers, the small group and exclusive private tours roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia in the regions between Perth and Adelaide.

A 4WD on Untamed Escapes. (Image: Riley M Williams)
Roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia. (Image: Riley M Williams)

11. HeliSpirit, WA and NT

Multi-award-winning HeliSpirit operates a fleet of helicopters at key locations across the Kimberley including Kununurra, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) and Mitchell Falls, as well as Katherine Gorge and Karratha. Take to the air to discover the awe-inspiring landscapes with a scenic flight or an extended Luxury Helicopter Safari.

Helicopter at the Cockburn Ranges, Gibb River Road (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Take a scenic flight with HeliSpirit. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Margaret River Discovery Co, WA

The Margaret River Discovery Company offers personalised tours, hosted by expert local guide Sean Blocksidge and his luxury 4WD on a wine and scenic tour that takes you behind the tourist facade, away from the masses to discover people and places you won’t find on your own.

13. Lombadina Tours, WA

Set amidst a tropical oasis, Lombadina offers accommodation that gives you an opportunity to share community life, escape the harsh elements of the Kimberley and time to enjoy one of the most beautiful swimming beaches in the world.

Fishing with Aboriginal tour guide at Lombadina. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Go fishing with an Aboriginal tour guide at Lombadina. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive, WA

Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive provides tours and activities for guests of all ages and fitness levels to experience the Ningaloo Reef. The tours include an Interaction swim with a Whalesharks day tour, Swim with Humpback whale tours and the lovely relaxing Humpback sunset tour.

Female swimming with a Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) at Ningaloo Marine Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Go swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

15. Alice Springs Helicopters, NT

Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights and private charters, over Alice Springs township, East and West MacDonnell Ranges, Old Telegraph Station, Mt Gillen, Heavitree Gap, and Simpsons Gap, just to mention a few. All flights showcase the amazing natural landscapes of the Red Centre region and are available daily.

A visitor aboard a helicopter tour over Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Salty Aura)
Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights. (Image: Tourism NT and Salty Aura)

16. Nitmiluk Tours, NT

Consisting of 13 separate gorges, Nitmiluk Gorge is a maze of waterways sculpted from the sandstone over countless millennia by the Katherine River. Nitmiluk Tours is the specialist agent offering a great variety of tours that allow you to immerse yourself in the history, rugged beauty and culture of this majestic region.

Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Charlie Bliss)
Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Charlie Bliss)

17. Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris, NT

Mt Borradaile is a registered Aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. From floodplains to savannah woodlands, Davidson’s Arnehmland Safaris focus is on sustainable tourism showcasing the pristine natural environment and local indigenous culture of the Amurdak people.

A couple enjoying a tour with Davidson's Arnhemland safaris (Image: Tourism Australia and James Fisher)
Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris at Mt Borradaile is a registered aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. (Image: Tourism Australia and James Fisher)

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18. Venture North Safaris, NT

Venture North offer guided micro-group 4WD tours from Darwin in the Northern Territory. Catering to the higher end of the touring market they specialise in taking guests off the beaten track in style. Touring routes included Kakadu, Litchfield and Katherine but also the more remote area such as the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.

Venture into Arnhem Land and be immersed in Aboriginal culture on Venture North's 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. (Image: Tourism NT and James Fisher)
Venture into Arnhem Land and be immersed in Aboriginal culture on Venture North’s 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. (Image: Tourism NT and James Fisher)

19. Northern Territory Indigenous Tours, NT

Northern Territory Indigenous Tours offers an expert interpretation of the Top End’s natural and cultural environment from an Aboriginal viewpoint. Experience inspiration, education and adventure in comfort and safety on the owner, guide and former park ranger, Tess Atie’s rugged and beautiful country.

20. Kimberley Quest, WA

Kimberley Quest is a luxury cruise company operating a range of extended wilderness expeditions along the stunning Kimberley coast, cruising between Broome and Darwin. With a maximum of 18 guests, you will cruise in complete comfort and luxury on Kimberley Quest II, a 25-metre vessel custom-designed for relaxing and exploring.

21. Great Adventures Green Island Cruises, Qld

From Cairns, Great Adventures operates ecotourism-based cruises to tropical Green Island, which is also home to the eco-sensitive Green Island Resort. With Great Adventures, you can choose from full and half-day trips to Green Island.

Great Adventures runs daily cruises to tropical Green Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Great Adventures runs daily cruises to tropical Green Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

22. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Qld

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the ultimate eco-adventure for the traveller that enjoys experiencing wildlife in a natural setting. This award-winning attraction offers an activity-packed day with crocodile cruises and an array of wildlife presentations.

Aerial view of crocodile feeding from the boat cruise. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Feeding time… (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. Saltwater Eco Tours, Qld

Operating on the peaceful waterways of the Mooloolah River, Saltwater Eco Tours is the first of its kind on the Sunshine Coast. Combining Indigenous culture, maritime history, and live music, and surrounded by the beauty of the coastline and ocean in view, Saltwater Eco Tours truly captures the essence of the Sunshine Coast.

Group enjoying bush tucker inspired catering. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Enjoy the delicious catering with a bush twist. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

24. Ocean Safari Cape Tribulation, Qld

Ocean Safari offers an exhilarating 25-minute ride to snorkel the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef off the Daintree Coast at Cape Tribulation. This half-day eco-tour visits two different snorkel destinations, Mackay and Undine Reefs, each with an extraordinary array of marine life, turtles and coral species.

Ocean Safari Tour at Mackay Cay. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Do you know the difference between an island and a sand cay? (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

25. Sailaway, Qld

Sailaway sets off from Port Douglas and sets the highest level of nature experiences on the Great Barrier Reef. Offering first-class service, small numbers of guests, premium sailing and snorkelling experiences to Low Isles and Mackay/Undine Coral Cays.

Outer Reef Tour. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
The day trip from Port Douglas is dreamy. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

26. Ocean Freedom – Cairns Premier Reef and Island Tours, Qld

Ocean Freedom provides a first-class way to experience the Great Barrier Reef without the crowds. Ocean Freedom is the only boat in Cairns offering a full 6 hours on the reef, meaning there’s absolutely no rush in the day. Experience an adventure drift snorkel tour and jump on board for an informative glass bottom boat tour.

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Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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The best trails and natural moments around Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges boast some of Victoria’s most stunning natural scenery, making them a prime destination for outdoor experiences.

    There’s something very special about the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. A mix of rugged bush, mist-laden rainforest, gardens bursting with vivid blooms and a network of rivers and waterfalls, the landscapes here are layered and diverse. Late summer is a particularly good time to visit, when the days are long and the region’s outdoor offerings are ripe for sun-soaked adventures.

    The best part? Despite being only an easy one-hour drive from Melbourne, the area feels a world away from the hustle. You’ll be greeted by a slower pace with fewer travellers and more room to move – allowing you to truly switch off and take it all in.

    From rail trails to rainforest walks, this is where you’ll find nature at its most rewarding.

    1. Warburton

    Biking around Warburton is one best natural experiences in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
    Hit the trails at Warburton Mountain Bike Destination. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Perched at the top of the Yarra River, surrounded by pristine national park, the town of Warburton is a haven for nature lovers. It’s known for its towering redwoods, found in the Californian Redwood Forest just 15 minutes out of town. You’ll be in utter awe of these giant trees, some of which reach heights of up to 55 metres.

    The Warburton Rail Trail is another way to experience the town’s natural beauty. This flat, 40-kilometre route goes all the way to Lilydale and is ideal for a stroll or cycle past native bushland, wineries, farmland and parts of the Yarra.

    If you want to up the pace a little, head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, which encompasses 160 kilometres of purpose-built tracks amid wild bush terrain. For something a little more laid-back, the Rainforest Gallery is a standout spot for a wander. The gallery features statuesque Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech trees, moss-covered logs and tree ferns, and a 40-metre elevated walkway that brings you right into the centre of the forest canopy.

    2. Yarra Glen

    Yarra Glen is a beloved food and drink destination, but it offers far more than excellent produce and top-notch wines.

    A highlight is Alowyn Gardens, which stretches over seven acres. Inside, you’ll find nine different gardens with vivid floral and seasonal displays, plus a nursery featuring exotic plant species. The Wisteria Arbour is a crowd favourite, a curved walkway connecting the different gardens with a display of cascading lilac blooms.

    Intersecting with the Warburton Rail Trail, the first stage of the Yarra Valley Trail runs from the gateway town of Lilydale to Yering Station. A more manageable track of just 7.5 kilometres, it takes you through rolling farmland and pockets of native bush, with ample opportunities for wildlife-spotting.

    If you’re travelling with kids, McKenzie Reserve is a non-negotiable stop. The reserve encompasses a skate park, plenty of open grass to stretch little legs, and a nature-inspired adventure playground to suit every age and every energy level.

    3. Healesville

    One of the best natural experiences in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges is seeing a Koala upclose.
    Get up close and connect with koalas. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Healesville is the region’s best place to meet local wildlife. It’s home to Healesville Sanctuary, where you can get up close to kangaroos, koalas, emus, dingoes, reptiles and more. Beyond giving you front-row access to these gorgeous creatures, you’ll appreciate the scenic charm of the tracks and trails that meander through the wildlife park.

    To see even more birdlife, head over to Badger Weir for a picnic. Situated among soaring Mountain Ash trees and tranquil waterways, the area supports several bird species, including crimson rosellas, Australian king parrots and the elusive lyrebird. Barbecue facilities are available, and several tracks leading to Badger Weir are pram-friendly.

    Fernshaw Picnic Area, located in the Yarra Ranges National Park, is another idyllic setting for picnicking and short walks, also encircled by Mountain Ash trees. Compared to Badger Weir, though, Fernshaw provides a slightly more secluded experience, making it ideal for quieter outings.

    4. Olinda

    Cloudehill Gardens is a beautifully curated, year-round garden destination featuring nine terraced gardens filled with seasonal blooms and lush plant varieties.
    Wander through terraces of ever-changing blooms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Sitting more than 600 metres above sea level, the Dandenong Ranges have an enchanted feel and are shrouded in lush rainforest filled with tree ferns, mossy trunks and lingering mist.

    The town of Olinda is one of the finest places to experience this unique environment in all its verdant glory. At the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens, rhododendrons reign and drape the gardens in a riot of colour every spring.

    The nearby Cloudehill Gardens are well worth visiting any time of year. In each of the garden’s nine terraces, you’ll find an array of plant varieties that bloom and transform across the seasons, including weeping Japanese maples that have been growing here for nearly a century.

    Besides being a haven for arbory enthusiasts, the nearby RJ Hamer Arboretum is a spectacular spot to enjoy panoramic views. Here, more than 150 tree species grow and overlook the neighbouring Yarra Valley and Great Dividing Range.

    5. Emerald

    A lady eating with the view of Emerald Lake Park.
    Enjoy a lakeside picnic at Emerald Lake Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Set just behind the Dandenong Ranges, the foothills town of Emerald has a slightly more open feel, featuring rolling hills and open bushland. The town sits on the edge of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, with a patchwork of forested reserves and accessible bush trails on the Emerald side.

    You can also take to the water at nearby Aura Vale Lake, which is popular for sailing, canoeing, fishing for eel and perch, and picnicking on the grassy banks.

    The stand-out, though, is Emerald Lake Park, a sprawling green with multiple recreation zones. Across 52 hectares, there are walking tracks, playgrounds, paddleboats, a model railway, fishing sites and a family-friendly wading pool that comes to life every summer. The park also lies adjacent to the iconic Puffing Billy, making it a perfect stop if you’re travelling on the historic steam train.

    Start planning your next adventure at visityarravalley.com.au