Tasmania is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife. Our local Tasmanian tour company, Under Down Under, understands the appeal of renting a car and exploring our island at your own pace, but we want to encourage you to consider why a guided group tour can offer a far more enriching experience. We’ve been guiding visitors around Tasmania for over 25 years, and here’s why we think joining a guided tour with us is the superior way to discover Tasmania.

1. Expert Guidance and Local Insights

One of the greatest advantages of a guided tour is the access to expert guides who bring Tasmania to life with their deep knowledge and passion. Under Down Under’s guides are our local experts – our reviews online tell it all. Our guides are great storytellers and provide fascinating insights into the island’s history, culture, and ecology that you simply wouldn’t get on your own, transforming your trip into an educational adventure. They’ll help you to understand the significance of local culture, such as the importance of larapuna / Bay of Fires to Tasmanian aboriginal people, to learning about the unique flora and fauna at Cradle Mountain. They’ll also know the best place to get good coffee or to buy local honey!

2. Hassle-Free Travel

Visiting a new place can be daunting. Visitors to Tasmania are always surprised by how ‘big’ our small island is – our roads take longer to travel than you expect. They are windier and sometimes there’s just no wifi to navigate. Joining one of our guided tours means that the logistics are taken care of, including transportation, accommodation, and meal arrangements (or at least knowing the best places to dine). This means a less-stressful experience.

3. Safety and Comfort

While self-driving can be adventurous, guided tours are designed with safety in mind, offering reliable transport and experienced drivers who know the roads and weather conditions well. Our driver guides are careful to manage fatigue levels and we are comfortable saying that it would not be possible for self-drivers to see and do as much as what we do on our tours in a short amount of time.  We are conscious of guest’s comfort and make regular stops and focus on giving you as much time as possible in Parks and attractions.

4. Access to Hidden Gems

Tasmania is filled with hidden gems that are often overlooked by self-drive tourists. Our guided tours led by our expert local guides include stops at lesser known but equally stunning locations. Whether it’s a secluded beach, a hidden waterfall, or a rural town, these off-the-beaten-path experiences provide a deeper connection to Tassie’s charm and character.

5. Social Experience

Traveling in a group offers the added benefit of meeting new people and making friends from around the world. Whether it’s walking to the summit of Marion’s Lookout or enjoying a pub meal together in Launceston, the camaraderie of a group adds a social dimension to your adventure that you wouldn’t get traveling alone. That said, there are plenty of opportunities if you just need a bit of time to yourself. For example, many guests love finding a quiet spot on the lichen-clad rocks at the Bay of Fires to gaze out to sea. We are delighted to be able to bring diverse travelers from around the world together for their five or more days discovering Tasmania.

6. Comprehensive Itineraries

Our guided tours are meticulously planned to maximize your time and experiences. We understand that most visitors want to see and do as much as they can in a short amount of time. We cover all the must-see spots without you having to spend hours on research and planning – it’s just a matter of how many days you can give Tasmania (the more you give, the more you get in return). We offer itineraries for a minimum of 5 days/4 nights and a maximum of 10 days/9 nights (plus you must arrive in Hobart at least the day before your tour starts). 

7. Environmental Responsibility

Many guided tours in Tasmania prioritise eco-friendly practices and there are certification programs that provide credibility. At Under Down Under, we are an Advanced eco-certified operator with Ecotourism Australia. We’re a member of their Hall of Fame for being certified for over 20 years! You can find us on their website and Green Travel Guide. By joining a guided tour with us, you gain the peace of mind that you’re helping to preserve Tasmania’s pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Lastly…

Although a self-drive itinerary offers flexibility and independence, we hope to provide guests with a richer, safer, and more convenient way to explore Tasmania. With expert guidance, hassle-free logistics, and the chance to uncover hidden gems, Under Down Under’s guided tours ensure that you make the most of your Tasmanian adventure. So, book a trip, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the best of Tasmania without the stress and worry of going it alone. Are you convinced yet?!