Escape Sydney for a private full-day tour through coastal escarpments, rainforest clifftops and cool-climate wineries in the Southern Highlands. Expect short walks to dramatic falls, a taste of Georgian-era towns and a relaxed winery lunch.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Sydney’s concrete edge and soon the Pacific’s restive roar fades to a whisper as coastal highways curve beneath the Illawarra Escarpment. The vehicle climbs through a green wall of eucalypt and rainforest; wind-twisted gums lean like old travelers pointing the way. Morning light finds you at a seaside lookout, then the road pushes inland and the landscape opens into the cool, undulating plateaus of the Southern Highlands.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approx. 10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires ability to do short, easy clifftop walks and tolerate extended vehicle time
Wildlife
History
The Southern Highlands grew as an early 19th-century inland district with Georgian stone townships like Berrima built using convict labour; vineyards are a newer layer, flourishing in cool-climate microregions.
Conservation
Protect fragile cliff edges and sensitive bushland by staying on marked trails; wineries and parks increasingly emphasize low-impact tourism and sustainable viticulture practices.
Reserve your spot on the Waves Waterfalls and Wineries Full-Day Southern Highlands Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate between stops
Carry a reusable water bottle — bottled water is provided onboard but refillable bottles are more sustainable and handy between stops.
Wear closed, grippy shoes
Walks to lookouts include uneven clifftop paths and short stair sections; closed shoes reduce slips and keep you comfortable.
Plan for photos and light
Early morning or late afternoon light is best for waterfalls and vineyards; ask your guide for timed stops to avoid crowds.
Respect wildlife and private properties
Do not feed animals at refuges or approach fences near falls—stick to designated viewing areas and follow guide instructions.
Closed hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers
Provide traction on short clifftop trails and uneven winery grounds.
Layered jacket
Highland weather changes quickly—layers keep you comfortable from coast to escarpment.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Exposed coastal lookouts and winery terraces get strong sun, even on cool days.
summer
Compact binoculars or camera
Bring optics for birdwatching (lyrebirds) and detailed vineyard or waterfall shots.