bicheno penguin tours reviews

Bicheno Penguin Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Bicheno Penguin Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Bicheno Penguin Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

BICHENO PENGUIN TOURS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Bicheno Penguin Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Bicheno Penguin Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Bicheno Penguin Tours

What You Will See

Embark on a guided walk through our specially rehabilitated penguin rookery, where the stars of the show, the little penguins, waddle ashore after a day’s fishing. Under the guidance of our experienced tour guides, you’ll learn about the penguins’ behaviors, their habitat, and the conservation efforts to protect these charming birds. The tour’s gentle walk covers approximately 700 meters and lasts around 50 minutes, providing plenty of time to marvel at these creatures in their natural setting.

General Information

Duration : The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.

Booking : Secure your spot through our website or by calling us during office hours.

What to Bring : For your comfort and safety, please wear enclosed shoes without prominent heels and dress in warm, comfortable clothing. A weatherproof jacket is advisable during cooler months. Despite the weather, our tours proceed, ensuring you don’t miss out on this magical experience.

Photography : Capture memories of your visit with mobile phone photography (no flash allowed). If you’re unsure, we’re happy to provide photos free of charge.

How do I book a tour?

You can book your tour at the bottom of this page!

What should I wear?

Please wear enclosed, comfortable shoes and warm clothing. The tours are entirely outdoors, so a weatherproof jacket is recommended during cooler months.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography with mobile phones (without flash) is permitted. We aim to protect the penguins’ natural behavior, so we ask for your cooperation with this rule.

What makes Bicheno Penguin Tours unique?

They are proud to offer the only penguin tour on Tasmania’s East Coast, focusing on conservation and education. Our tours are conducted in a safe and responsible manner, ensuring a minimal impact on the penguins and their habitat.

• Activity Duration
• 1 hour 10minutes

• Explore Explore places to stay Watch Video 7 Day Luxury Getaway 4 Day Tasmania Luxury Getaway Eat & Drink the World's Best Watch Video 5 Day Tasmania's Gourmet Trail 3 Day Gourmet Hobart & Surrounds History and Culture Watch Video 8 Day History, Art and Nature Self Drive Package 7 Day Icons of Tasmania Coasts & Waterways Watch Video 8 Day Wilderness and Beaches Self Drive Package 5 Day East Coast Self Drive Package Explore Ancient Lands Watch Video 8 Day Tasmanian Wildlife and Wilderness Encounter Tour 6 Day Tasmanian Devil Encounter
• Where To Go Regions Hobart & South Launceston & North North West West Coast East Coast King Island Flinders Island Day Drives Huon Valley Day Drive Derwent Valley Day Drive Tamar Valley Day Drive Cradle Mountain Day Drive Bruny Island Day Drive Self-drive Itineraries Hobart to Port Arthur Port Arthur to Freycinet Freycinet to Launceston Launceston to Cradle Mountain Launceston to Stanley Stanley to Cradle Mountain Cradle Mountain to Strahan Strahan to Hobart Popular Places Hobart & South Hobart Richmond Port Arthur Bruny Island Three Capes Track Huonville Salamanca Markets Battery Point View All Launceston & North Launceston Grindelwald Tamar Valley Cataract Gorge Beaconsfield Mole Creek Derby Mountain Bike Park View All North West Overland Track Burnie Port Sorell Cradle Mountain Devonport Stanley View All East Coast Wineglass Bay Bay of Fires Freycinet Bicheno Maria Island Pyengana View All West Coast Strahan Queenstown View All King Island King Island View All Flinders Island Flinders Island View All Attractions North Cataract Gorge Overland Track Tarkine / Takayna Rainforest The Nut in Stanley Grindelwald World Heritage Sites Gunns Plains Caves Cradle Mountain Tamar Valley View All South Salamanca Markets MONA kunanyi / Mt. Wellington Cascade Brewery Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Tahune Air Walk Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tessellated Pavement Three Capes Track View All East Coast Wineglass Bay Bay of Fires Bicheno Blowhole Painted Cliffs Track Coles Bay Friendly Beaches Douglas-Apsley National Park Scamander Whalers Lookout Old Convict Road View All West Coast Gordon River West Coast Wilderness Railway Gordon River Dam Wall in the Wilderness Zeehan Horsetail Falls Nelson Falls Sheffield Iron Blow Lookout View All
• Things To Do Activities Outdoor Activities Hiking & Walking Mountain Biking Cycling Fishing Golf Kayaking & Canoeing View All Nature & Scenery National Parks Waterfalls Wildlife kunanyi / Mt. Wellington Scenic Flights & Helicopters Cruises & Boat Tours View All Wildlife Tasmanian Devil White Wallaby View All Multi-day Tours Top Picks 10 Day Deluxe Self Drive Package 7 Day Wild West Coast Self Drive Package Self Drive Tours 10 Day Deluxe Package 9 Day Tassie Icons - Hobart 8 Day Wilderness and Beaches 8 Day History & Nature 7 Day Wild West Coast 7 Day East Coast View All Bus Tours 7 Day Icons of Tasmania 4 Day Icons Tasmania 8 Day Tasmanian Wildlife and Wilderness 5 Day of Icons Tasmania 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter View All Luxury Private Tours 7 Day Private Luxury Getaway 4 Day Tasmania Luxury Getaway 3 Day Gourmet Hobart Surrounds 7 Day Best of Golf Tasmania Tour 5 Day Luxury Self Drive Package View All Hikes, Outdoor & Adventure Overland Track Blue Derby Pods Ride Tarkine & Cradle Mountain Explorer Three Capes 3 Day Walk The Walls of Jerusalem Experience Wineglass Bay Beach Hike View All Popular Day Tours Top Picks Gordon River Cruises Tasmanian Seafood Seduction Cruises Tasman Island Cruise Wineglass Bay Cruise Gordon River Cruises Bruny Island Cruise Seafood Seduction Cruise Leven River Cruise Cataract Gorge Cruise Maria Island Cruise & Walk View All Sightseeing Tours Hobart City Scenic Flight West Coast Wilderness Rail Red Decker City Loop Port Arthur Day Tour Cliffs & Beaches Kayak kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Port Arthur Richmond & Nature View All Food and Drink Bruny Island Gourmet Tour Highlights of Tas Wine Tour Tasmanian Seafood Experience Tamar Wine & Gin Tour Derwent Wine, Whisky & Cider Tamar Food and Wine Day Trip View All Adventure Tasman Peninsula Kayaking Scenic Flights and Helicopters Leven Canyon Day Trip King River Raft & Steam Bruny Island Day Sail Tahune Airwalk & Hastings Cave Tour View All
• Places To Stay Regions Top Picks
• Food & Drink Eat & Drink Drinks Whisky. Beer Wine and Vineyards Vodka Gin Pubs and Bars Cider View All Food Seafood Fresh produce and Farm Gates Markets in Tasmania Cheese Tasmanian Atlantic Salmon Oysters View All Our Picks 3 Day Signature Gourmet Trail 5 Day Signature Gourmet Trail 5 Day Wild Tasmanian Seafood Tour Events Food and Drink Bicheno Food and Wine Festival Devonport Food and Wine Chocolate Winterfest Tasmanian Whisky Week A Taste of The Huon Fliners Island Food and Crayfish Festival Taste of Tasmania Huon Valley Mid-Winter Feast View All Arts & Culture Dark Mofo Agfest Festivale Steamfest View All Music Cygnet Folk Festival Devonport Jazz Mona Foma View All Sporting Targa Tasmania Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race V8 Supercars Royal Hobart Regatta View All Our Picks Bruny Island Safaris - Foods, Sightseeing and Lighthouse Tour
• Packages & Tours Deals 10 Day Tassie Icons Package DEAL From Hobart 7 Day Tassie Icons Package DEAL From Hobart 14 Day Tassie Long Lap Package DEAL From Hobart View All Luxury 3 Day Signature Gourmet Trail 5 Day Signature Gourmet Trail 7 Day Luxury Self Drive Package View All Self-Drive 5 Day East Coast Self Drive Package 10 Day Deluxe Self Drive Package 8 Day Wilderness and Beaches Self Drive Package View All Guided Walk Overland Track Three Capes 3 Day Walk wukalina Walk View All Bus 5 Day Icons of Tasmania Tour 8 Day Tasmanian Wildlife and Wilderness Encounter Tour 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter View All
• Plan Your Trip Day Drives Huon Valley Day Drive Derwent Valley Day Drive Tamar Valley Day Drive Cradle Mountain Day Drive Bruny Island Day Drive View All Self-Drive Itineraries Hobart to Port Arthur Port Arthur to Freycinet Freycinet to Launceston Launceston to Cradle Mountain Launceston to Stanley Stanley to Cradle Mountain Cradle Mountain to Strahan Strahan to Hobart View All Multi-Day Self Drive Tours
• Maps Regions Hobart & South Launceston & North North West West Coast East Coast King Island Browse Maps Hobart & South Hobart Map View All
• Call Us 1300 282 762
• Booking Concierge
• Book Yourself

Privacy Overview

Bicheno Penguin Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

BICHENO PENGUIN TOURS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Bicheno Penguin Tours Review – Inspire Family Travel

A privately-owned company formed in 1992, Bicheno Penguin Tours is a brilliant way to see fairy penguins.

While staying at Bicheno, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to marvel at these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.

Continue reading for more information.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.

Table of Contents

Bicheno Penguin Tours Review

What to Expect on a Bicheno Penguin Tour

Starting at the Bicheno Penguin tour office in Bicheno, we jumped on board the shuttle bus at dusk for the short drive to the private penguin rookery.  

As we made our way along the dimly lit boardwalk, our first stop overlooked Redbill Beach to watch the penguins’ groups disembark from the water and make their way up to the burrows.

The penguins were tentative on our tour as the moonlight shone over the beach, and even though it is not the ideal setting for these timid creatures, it did cast a glorious backdrop for our tour.

Our local guide on the Bicheno penguin tour was extremely informative and answered everyone’s questions with enthusiasm and passion.

After our patient way to watch the penguins head for their homes, we continued along the path to see penguins in the burrows. As we travelled to Tasmania in “chick raising” season, we were given a special treat of seeing two babies – one was four weeks, and another fluffy brown fur ball, huddled into its mother was only a mere 1-2 weeks old.

There were two more stops along the path to see the penguins disembark from the water in different areas. Some were quite close to the track by this time, and the guide reminds us that they can be quite curious creatures and may venture close if there are no loud noises or sudden movements.

The one hour tour passed very quickly, and before we knew it, we were returning to the bus on such a high from witnessing a magical encounter with nature.

Age Suitability

The Bicheno Penguin Tour is one of the best things to do in Tasmania for families , but something to note is depending on the time of year you visit, it can be a late night with some waiting involved if the penguins have not ventured onto the beach.

Where Does the Tour Leave From

Town Centre, Shop 1-70 Burgess Street Bicheno

How to Book the Bicheno Penguin Tour

The Bicheno Penguin Tour is one of the most popular attractions along the east coast of Tasmania . As each group has relatively small numbers (approximately 20 on our tour), I would recommend booking in advance to not miss out.  

When Does the Tour Operate

Operating seven days a week (except Good Friday, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve).

Cost of the Tour

Adults $40 Children $20 (under 4 years free). Prices are subject to change, and I would suggest viewing the companies website to confirm.

Photography

As there is no photography permitted on tour, the office provides a card if you would like to request photos as a keepsake.

Tips on What to Wear

Not knowing what to expect, this was one of the questions I asked before the tour. The pathways are firm underfoot, so covered in walking shoes are suitable. Depending on the time of the year, the amount of layered clothing you bring may differ. In summer, long pants and a jumper were appropriate.

Best Time of Year to See Fairy Penguins

The Bicheno Penguin Tours website offers a seasonal calendar giving you fabulous information on how many penguins you may encounter, what time you would embark on the tour, and the penguins’ cycle.

How to Get to Bicheno

Bicheno is a small coastal town ad one of the best hubs for exploring the eastern side of Tasmania . The fairy penguin experience is only one of the brilliant things to do in Bicheno.

You May Also Like: Find a 14-day self drive itinerary for Tasmania here

Where to Stay in Bicheno

We opted to stay in this Airbnb in Bicheno as it was less expensive than other accommodation options at the time. Our host offered great insight into the attractions and dining in the area, and even though we were slightly out of town, we loved staying near Denison Beach .

Find more top Airbnb’s in the Bicheno area here !

Alternatively, if a motel, hotel, or resort is more your thing, you can opt for the Diamond Island Resort , which offers private access to the nearby beach where you may spot a penguin.

Join the Inspire Family Travel community full of passionate families obsessed with hearing more tips and advice for travelling with (and without) kids. Delivered to your inbox via eNewsletter. 100% spam-free, we promise!

Thank you to Bicheno Penguin Tours for providing these photos when we were unable to take them.

Inspire Family Travel

I hope Inspire Family Travel fuels your wanderlust for new destinations, makes you return to old ones you love, and, ultimately, acts as a practical guide for your next getaway.

A Guide to Historic Port Arthur For Kids

Featherdale wildlife park vs taronga zoo – which is best with kids, you may also like, an unforgettable bruny island day trip – (things..., 13 amazing day trips from hobart you need..., 12 awesome things to do in hobart with..., 37 best things to do in tasmania with..., spectacular beaches in tasmania to visit, the most popular things to do in strahan..., the ultimate list of things to do in....

I saw Bicheno in the title and just had to read this. Still remember this awesome place for its phenomenal waterhole. Our kids couldn’t get enough watching it, and we had so much fun watching them. Unfortunately, we didn’t do the penguin tour at that time as the kids were too young. But his looks like an amazing experience!

My girls also had a brilliant time at the Bicheno blowhole. We spent most of one afternoon there as it was a fantastic place to explore. The Penguin tour was fabulous and if you return to Tasmania again I would highly recommend it. :-)

i’m currently planning my family trip to Tasmania with an overnight in Bicheno to see the penguins. any recommendations on where to stay. 2 adults 1 toddler

Hi Emma, that sounds wonderful! We stayed at an Airbnb just outside of Bicheno. If you search Airbnb it is under “Beach Bungalow Bicheno” and the host is Binny. We loved our stay there as it is in walking distance to Denison Beach and Binny is a fabulous host. If you haven’t stayed in an Airbnb before, click on the Airbnb link (you’ll find it on my website) as it offers a $55 AUD credit for new members on your first booking. If you have any other questions, please send me an email. :-)

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We use cookies on this website so we can provide you with a better experience when you visit us online. Accept Read More

Bicheno Penguin Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Bicheno Penguin Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Bicheno Penguin Tours

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

Bicheno Tasmania 7215

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

We were staying in Freycinet so decided to take the tour to see the penguins. We were originally booked on a 9 pm Saturday excursion but as the forecast was for steady rain, I sent an email and the penguin folks were able to switch us to the 9:15 on the following evening. That was really nice. The meeting spot is right off the Main Street in bicheno -it's not hard to spot, there are flags and a big parking lot. You board a mini bus with 20ish other folks to be driven to the penguin viewing spot. NOTE: they have a strict no photos, no camera policy-lights can disturb the birds but they will email you some photos if you first send an email request. The tour itself lasts about an hour led by a guide with a Special flashlight that doesn't impact the little blue penguins (the only species in Australia). You are guided sllowly around a path stopping at various points for interesting information and if you are lucky, see penguins fat from feasting waddling back up from the beach to their nests. At only $AUD 40 per person, it's not too expensive.

We decide to see the penguins since we were staying in Freycinet.

This was a very informative and enjoyable tour. Richard, our guide on the 9:40 tour, really knows his stuff and is very passionate about preserving local wildlife with special emphasis on the penguins. The BPT folks take you to areas not accessible to the public, and they are working very hard to help with conservation of the Fairy/ Blue Penguin habitat and to keep them safe from predators. They help with chick rearing only when the parent pairs are unable to do so, and then release them when fully grown. At $30 AUD it is totally worth it, especially when you find out that this helps the penguins so much!

Went to Bicheno for one night to see the Penguins. We went to the waterfront and were very still, they came by us in groups and even walked over our shoes. No tour necessary. However, DO NOT use a flashlight as this will scare the little fairy penguins. Ask your hotel or a restaurant for recommendations.

People Also Viewed

Freycinet Adventures

Wintersun Gardens Motel

Saffire Freycinet

Freycinet Lodge

Apartments on Fraser Bicheno

Beachfront at Bicheno

Eagle Peaks at Freycinet

Brighton Motel

Meredith House & Mews

Bicheno’s Ocean View Retreat

Tour Agencies Near Me

Other Travel Agents Nearby

Find more Travel Agents near Bicheno Penguin Tours

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

See penguins in the wild

Tours departing from 06:00 pm tonight book now, penguins arrive in, summer season.

September - January

Tours Depart 7:30pm - 9:10pm

During breeding season, the penguins are very busy preparing for their offspring. The male penguins are especially busy during this time, as they take on the important task of building burrows to protect their growing families. They work tirelessly to create a safe and cozy home that meets the expectations of their mates and their offspring.

(Children under 4 are free)

Winter Season

February + April - August

Tours Depart 5:00pm - 7:30pm

During the Winter Season, penguins are focused on maintaining their burrows, building better nests, and taking a break from the constant stress of being in the ocean. This season is generally quieter for both our penguins and guests, providing a unique opportunity for a more personalised experience in the penguin rookery. It's worth noting that February is typically the moulting season for our penguins, during which they stay home.

Tours Depart 7.45pm

During the month of March, the penguins are splitting their time between the rookery and the sea, as they recover from the task of raising their young. This period typically sees smaller groups of penguins in the rookery, creating a more intimate and peaceful environment for visitors to experience. It's a wonderful time to witness the daily routines of these fascinating birds and gain an appreciation for their resilience and hard work.

Book your tour today!

• [email protected]

• Your cart is empty

Bicheno Penguin Tour

from 0 review

1 Hr Duration

Book the Bicheno Penguin Tour and get up close with the world’s smallest and cutest penguins at Bicheno!

Centrally located on Tasmania’s East Coast, Bicheno is home to the world-famous little penguins. This penguin tour is the best way to see little penguins up close and safely without disturbing them in their natural habitat. Your tour begins at dusk with an expert guide giving an informative commentary and introduction to the penguin colony. Then watch carefully as these adorable small creatures come back to the shore, making their way to the dunes after a day of fishing.

Bicheno Penguin Tour inclusive:

• Penguin night tour
• Experienced guide
• Expert commentary
• Free Cancellation 5 Days Before

Come see the adorable penguins march up onto the shore – book your spot with us today at Discount Price!

Assembling arrangement

Meeting point: 70 Burgess St, Bicheno TAS 7215, Australia This tour does not include hotel transfers. Please make your way to the tour location. Tour operates daily except for Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.

Booking Information

Upon booking this product, you will receive confirmation in the form of a tour voucher. Please present the voucher on your mobile device on the day of the tour. Your tour operator's contact details are included on the tour voucher.

Child ticket: Ages 4 - 14 years Infants aged 0 - 3 years can take part in this tour for free. Strictly no cameras or videos are allowed during the tour. Loud noises can scare the penguins away. Please wear warm clothing in winter and covered footwear.

Cancellation

• Full refunds will be issued for cancellation or revision made at least 5 days before use.
• No cancellation or revision within 4 days before use.
• If you do not show up at the required time, you will be considered to have forfeited your booking and will not be entitled to a refund.

Included/Excluded

• Hotel transfers
• All other personal expenses

Prominent words

Tour's location.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Afternoon Wildlife Tour – Penguin Plus

iVenture Card Melbourne Flexi 5 Attractions Pass

Rottnest Island Same Day Return Ferry from Fremantle

Sydney Airport to Hotel Shared Transfer – Airport to Sydney CBD Hotel (One Way)

or continue with

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.