1-day tour to Blue Mountains National Park & Sydney Zoo from Sydney with admission ticket included Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the thrilling Scenic Railway and Scenic Cableway at Scenic World to experience the steep cliffs and deep valleys from unique angles.

• Stand at Echo Point Lookout to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation.

• Meet native Australian animals like koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles up close with your included admission to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.

• Take a refreshing stroll through the ancient eucalyptus forests to breathe in the famous blue haze and spot native birdlife.

Hidden Gems

• Keep an eye out for the superb lyrebird mimicking sounds in the dense rainforest sections of the Scenic Walkway.

• Visit the Leura Cascades just a short drive from Echo Point for a stunning, less-crowded waterfall viewpoint surrounded by lush ferns.

• Look closely at the valley haze, which is actually a beautiful optical illusion created by the refraction of light through eucalyptus oil droplets released by the forests.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy a seamless combination of city-based wildlife education and expansive national park exploration without the hassle of organizing separate transport.

• Gain unlimited access to all four Scenic World attractions, allowing you to experience the mountains from the sky, the cliff edge, and the valley floor.

• Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with an expert guide who provides engaging commentary on the region's geography and Indigenous history.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

This full-day tour departs early in the morning, which is perfect for beating the midday crowds at the zoo and the main mountain lookouts. Autumn and Spring offer the most comfortable hiking weather and clearest skies for viewing the famous blue haze, while summer brings warmer days and larger holiday crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the vastness of the Jamison Valley from Echo Point just before midday when the sun illuminates the deep ravines and enhances the blue haze.

• Use the Scenic Cableway for sweeping, unobstructed panoramic shots of the cliff faces and Katoomba Falls without the interference of safety railings.

• Remember to turn off your camera flash when photographing the nocturnal and sensitive animals inside the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo enclosures.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Show respect for the deep Indigenous heritage of the Blue Mountains by staying on marked trails and not disturbing any natural rock formations or flora. When interacting with the wildlife at the zoo, follow the keepers' instructions carefully and avoid tapping on the glass enclosures. Tipping is not strictly expected in Australia, but it is always appreciated if your tour guide provides an exceptional and memorable experience.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the magical Blue Mountains Yulefest from June to August, where local venues celebrate a traditional European-style Christmas in the middle of the Australian winter.

• If visiting during May or June, you might catch the vibrant Vivid Sydney festival illuminating the city, making your evening return to Sydney extra spectacular.

• Expect peak crowds and a festive atmosphere during the Australian summer school holidays from mid-December to late January.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always stay behind the safety barriers and fencing at Echo Point and other cliff-edge lookouts, as the sandstone edges can be unstable.

• Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry a water bottle, as the Australian sun can be surprisingly strong even on cooler mountain days.

• Hold onto the handrails tightly when riding the Scenic Railway, and ensure loose items like hats and phones are securely stored before the steep descent.