Mt. Field goes from waterfalls to furries fast. This private day pairs Russel Falls rainforest walking with time at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you meet iconic Tasmanian species up close. It is a long, satisfying outing that feels like Tasmania in one hit: temperate rainforest beauty plus hands-on wildlife time.

Two things I really like: you get real time outdoors at Mt. Field (about 4 hours), not a rushed drive-by. And you do Bonorong afterward for an easy 1-hour slot that’s built around seeing native animals, including Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, and echidnas.

One thing to consider is the weather. Mt. Field can be cold, and one guide’s Snow at the top experience came with low temperatures, so pack warm layers even if Hobart looks mild.

Key highlights

• Russel Falls in Mt. Field National Park with rainforest walking that suits different fitness levels
• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary focused on native species, including Tasmanian Devils, wombats, and kangaroos
• Optional Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk (Fri–Sun) if you want a farm-to-plate lunch add-on
• Private tour format so your guide can adjust pacing for your group
• Pickup offered in Hobart plus mobile ticket convenience

Mt. Field and Bonorong: A Hobart Day That Makes Sense

This tour works because it mixes two Tasmania favorites without forcing you into a full-day hike. You start with rainforest scenery and waterfalls at Mt. Field, then switch gears to a wildlife sanctuary that’s easier on your legs.

I also like the flow: you get a solid block for the outdoors, then a focused animal visit. It is not “check the boxes and go.” The pacing gives you room to slow down and actually enjoy what you’re looking at.

The day has a private-tour feel too. Reviews and tour design point to guides who go beyond basics, including guide names like Daniel, Sonia, Noella, Angus, Penny, and Noah, each praised for making the day run smoothly and adding extra context.

Mt. Field National Park: Russel Falls and Ferny Rainforest Walks

Mt. Field is one of the Island’s best-loved national parks for a reason, and your first stop is built to show you why. You get about 4 hours here, with access to waterfalls, vast lakes, and walking or hiking that fits different fitness levels.

Russel Falls is the headline, and you’ll want to plan for short stops to take it in. The setting is temperate rainforest, with ancient ferns and tall gumtrees, so even the “in-between” moments on the walk feel like part of the attraction, not just transit.

A good way to think about your Mt. Field time is as two layers. First is the waterfall experience, which you should prioritize because it anchors the visit. Second is the rainforest walking, where you can choose how much effort to put in based on your group’s comfort.

Practical expectations on the ground

This is a place where conditions can change quickly. One of the most memorable guide notes came from snow at the top, plus low temperatures, which is a reminder that Tasmania’s weather has a sense of humor.

Bring layers, not just one warm thing. Wear shoes with grip, and if you’re the type who hates wet socks, toss a rain shell in your day bag.

What I’d watch for at Mt. Field

• If you want more walking, you’ll have time to stretch your legs within the 4-hour window.
• If you want to move slower, you can still enjoy the falls and scenery without turning the day into a fitness test.
• If it is chilly, you’ll get more out of the walk by dressing for it early, before you’re already cold.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Furry Locals Up Close (and Sometimes Interactive)

After Mt. Field, you shift to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary for about 1 hour. This stop is built around native species and the work a sanctuary does, and it gives you a concentrated dose of Tasmania’s famous animals without the stress of trying to find them yourself.

The standout is the variety. Your sanctuary time is specifically described as a chance to see Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, and dozens of other native species.

Why this stop feels different from a typical zoo visit

I like that Bonorong is presented as a wildlife sanctuary doing active work, not just an observation-only place. It also has an “up close” energy. In the accounts of the day, animal experiences were described as including petting and feeding kangaroos, which is exactly the kind of hands-on moment you’ll remember.

Do keep your expectations realistic, though. This is still a set 1-hour block, so focus on what matters most to you in that time: seeing the animals you came for and staying present rather than trying to sprint through every exhibit.

A tip that saves time

If you have strong preferences (for example, you really want to see the Tasmanian Devils or spend extra time with wombats), tell your guide what you care about. The private format helps, because your guide can steer your order so you don’t waste time.

Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk: Optional Lunch That Changes the Mood of the Day

Your third stop is the optional Agrarian Kitchen Cooking Classes in New Norfolk. It is not included, and it only runs Friday to Sunday, subject to availability.

This is the “slow down and eat well” part of the day. Mt. Field is active and outdoorsy, and Bonorong is focused and fun. The Agrarian Kitchen add-on turns the day into something more like a complete experience instead of back-to-back sightseeing.

If you’re choosing whether to add it, think about the trade-off. You are already getting a full outdoors day, so lunch here only makes sense if you genuinely want a farm-to-plate meal experience in New Norfolk, and your schedule matches the Friday–Sunday window.

Timing reality check

Because it’s optional and availability-dependent, you should treat it as a plan to look forward to, not a guaranteed box. Your guide will be the best person to coordinate how it fits your day once you’re on the ground.

Pace, Pickup, and How the Day Actually Feels

This is a 9:00 am start, and the overall duration is 8 to 9 hours. That means you’ll likely be out for most of the day, with travel between sites and time that’s clearly allotted for each stop.

Pickup is offered, which is a big deal in Hobart. With a day like this, it’s less about saving minutes and more about avoiding stress.

The private tour format is also a real advantage for pacing. One big theme in the experience feedback is that people appreciated not feeling forced to rush through spots they wanted to linger at. Even if your group is the opposite, a private setup gives your guide flexibility to keep everyone comfortable.

About groups and tickets

You’ll have a mobile ticket, and admission is listed as free for Mt. Field and included for Bonorong. That matters for value because you’re not stacking additional entry fees on the same day.

There are also group discounts, which can make a big difference if you’re traveling with friends or family and can share the private format.

Price and Value: Is $710.07 per Person Fair?

At $710.07 per person, you should judge this tour on what it replaces. You’re paying for a private day with pickup support, full-day driving, planned time at two major nature anchors (Mt. Field and Bonorong), and included entry at Bonorong and free admission at Mt. Field.

Here’s how I’d frame the value:

• If you want a private guide for a day that combines walking and wildlife without navigating logistics, the price can feel justified.
• If you have limited time in Hobart and want a high-impact itinerary, it can be cost-effective compared with piecing things together.
• If you’re only interested in one stop, or you’re traveling on a strict budget, it’s harder to see the value.

The “booked about 273 days in advance” detail also hints that this isn’t a casual last-minute plan for most people. It suggests demand, which usually comes from itineraries that work well and guides that know the best way to run the day.

The biggest value lever: your guide

A private tour is only as good as the person steering it. The names that came up most clearly in the experience feedback were Daniel, Sonia, Noella, Angus, Penny, and Noah, with strong praise for going the extra mile and handling questions quickly. If you care about a day that feels guided, not just transported, that’s a major part of the pricing story.

Who Should Book This Tour (and Who Might Skip It)

This tour is a strong fit if you want a classic Tasmania day that includes both nature scenery and wildlife. Mt. Field gives you the rainforest and waterfalls side, and Bonorong brings the furry locals.

It’s also a good choice if you like having structure. You know the major stops, you have about 4 hours for Mt. Field, 1 hour for Bonorong, and an optional lunch slot in New Norfolk (Friday–Sunday).

You might skip it if:

• You don’t want to spend most of a day away from Hobart.
• You’re not comfortable with walking outdoors, even if Mt. Field is described as suitable for different fitness levels.
• You’re traveling on a day when Agrarian Kitchen isn’t available, since the lunch add-on only runs Friday to Sunday.

Quick Tips to Get the Most from the Day

These are the practical things that make a long day feel easy.

First, dress for cold at Mt. Field. Snow was mentioned in the guidance experience, and even without snow, you can expect cooler conditions at elevation.

Second, pack for the walk. You’ll enjoy the rainforest more if you’re warm, dry, and steady on your feet.

Third, plan your priorities. If you care most about Russel Falls, focus your Mt. Field time there. If you care most about specific animals, tell your guide so you spend your 1-hour Bonorong slot efficiently.

Finally, use the fact that it is private. If you want a little more time at a waterfall viewpoint, that’s where a private guide can be helpful. If you want to keep moving, you can ask for that too.

Should You Book Peaks, Falls & Furry Locals: Mt. Field & the Derwent?

I’d book it if you want one organized day that hits Mt. Field National Park and Bonorong without hassles, and you value the comfort of a private guide. The combination makes sense: waterfalls and rainforest walking first, then close-up wildlife next, then optional New Norfolk dining if your timing matches Friday to Sunday.

You should rethink it if you’re looking for a low-cost outing or you hate chilly weather and long days. Also, if Agrarian Kitchen availability matters a lot to you, double-check that your day falls on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

If you do book, go in with the right mindset: dress warmly, wear good shoes, and pick what you want to linger on. With the right guide, the day feels like Tasmania, not just a checklist.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour runs about 8 to 9 hours.

What time does it start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

Where does the tour go?

The stops are Mount Field National Park, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, and an optional visit to Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk.

Is pickup included?

Yes, pickup is offered.

Are tickets included for all stops?

Admission for Mt. Field is listed as free, and admission for Bonorong is included. The Agrarian Kitchen option is not included.

Is lunch included at Agrarian Kitchen?

Lunch at Agrarian Kitchen is optional and not included. It is available Friday to Sunday, subject to availability.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It is a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

When will I receive confirmation after booking?

You should receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Is the tour suitable for most people?

The information says most travelers can participate.

If I cancel, do I get a refund?

No. This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.