26 ECO-certified tours around Australia

For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified tours.

When organising our travel, ensuring that we leave the area as good (or better) than before is so important. And nobody knows the environment better than the locals, which is why tours are such a great, hassle-free way to see the sights.

We’ve found the top ECO-certified tours in Australia that not only take the stress out of planning for you but are also proven to take sustainability seriously. Ecotourism Australia ’s ECO-certified experiences are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices, so travellers are sure to find high-quality nature-based tourism experiences no matter what their interests are. Here are some of our favourites.

We’ve also covered the top ECO-certified attractions and accommodations in another article to help you round out your sustainable travel options.

1. AAT Kings – Inspiring Journeys

Discover ancient cultures and rugged destinations with the guiding hand of an expert at Inspiring Journeys . It offers the perfect balance of freedom from the stress of holiday planning, and just enough flexibility to shape your journey with a choice of optional experiences.

2. Coral Expeditions

As an Australian eco-accredited expedition cruise line, Coral Expeditions take small groups of eco-aware travellers to the most beautiful and remote destinations in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the South Pacific and Indian Ocean Islands.

3. Trek Tasmania, Tas

Trek Tasmania is a boutique tour company focused on taking small groups onto the paths less travelled and into the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness. Their specialty is offering quality, deep immersion wilderness experiences, and their commitment is to sustainable eco-tourism principles.

The Overland Track is an Australian bushwalking track, traversing Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It's walked by more than nine thousand people each year, with numbers limited in the warmer months (Image: Tayla Gentle) — Trekking through Tasmania is the best way to see it. (Image: Tayla Gentle)

4. Moonshadow Cruises, NSW

With vessels operating from Port Stephens Harbour, Moonshadow Cruises offer a range of scheduled cruises and private charter options. In port or at sea, for whale or dolphin watching, lunch or dinner, corporate events, birthdays, weddings or Christmas parties.

Couple enjoying a dolphin watching cruise with Moonshadow Cruises in Port Stephens. (Image: Destination NSW) — Spot a dolphin on a Moonshadow Cruise. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Elixir Journeys, Central Coast, NSW

At Elixir Journeys , they are all about private and small-group nature-based experiences that will engage the senses, hyper-local products with low-carbon impact and great hosts. All of the experiences are crafted with attention to detail, love, and little luxury touches, and ensure just the right balance of activity and relaxation.

6. Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Vic

On the Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk , everything is taken care of. The only job is to put one foot in front of the other. They’ll show you the way, carry all the extras on their back and point out natural features. Plus, you’ll get scrumptious lunches, daypacks and walking sticks, cool lemonade and soothing foot baths at the end of each walk. Return each evening to the private eco-lodge where you’ll be served gourmet meals complemented by local wines and beers.

The Twelve Apostles at sunset (Image: Visit Victoria) — The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk is the ultimate tour. (Image: Visit Victoria)

7. Flinders Ranges Odysseys, SA

Tour guides from Flinders Ranges Odysseys , a sister company to Kangaroo Island Odysseys have the same passion for the outback of South Australia as they do for Kangaroo Island. When touring with Flinders Ranges Odysseys tour guides, you won’t believe the incredible mountain range spanning 430 kilometres, its ancient landscapes, significant aboriginal heritage, and its pioneering history.

8. SA Eco Tours, SA

Discover one of the world’s oldest landscapes, the vast areas of unspoilt wilderness, unique wildlife and rich traditional aboriginal culture that is Outback South Australia. Taking small group eco safaris to the Flinders Ranges and the Yorke Peninsula, SA Eco Tours offers high-end private charters and special interest groups. SA Eco Tours offers authentic encounters, allows maximum freedom and has the utmost respect for the environment, nature and local people.

9. Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures, SA

Having seen and experienced the island from both land and sea with its unspoilt beaches, breathtaking scenery and abundance of wildlife, Kangaroo Island Marine Tours can provide you with an insight into the true beauty of Kangaroo Island.

Dolphin jumping. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission) — See a dolphin at Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

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10. Untamed Escapes, SA and WA

Untamed Escapes connects travellers from all walks of life with adventure, wildlife, wellness and epicurean experiences in nature. Guided by the region’s most passionate storytellers, the small group and exclusive private tours roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia in the regions between Perth and Adelaide.

A 4WD on Untamed Escapes. (Image: Riley M Williams) — Roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia. (Image: Riley M Williams)

11. HeliSpirit, WA and NT

Multi-award-winning HeliSpirit operates a fleet of helicopters at key locations across the Kimberley including Kununurra, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) and Mitchell Falls, as well as Katherine Gorge and Karratha. Take to the air to discover the awe-inspiring landscapes with a scenic flight or an extended Luxury Helicopter Safari.

Helicopter at the Cockburn Ranges, Gibb River Road (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — Take a scenic flight with HeliSpirit. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Margaret River Discovery Co, WA

The Margaret River Discovery Company offers personalised tours, hosted by expert local guide Sean Blocksidge and his luxury 4WD on a wine and scenic tour that takes you behind the tourist facade, away from the masses to discover people and places you won’t find on your own.

13. Lombadina Tours, WA

Set amidst a tropical oasis, Lombadina offers accommodation that gives you an opportunity to share community life, escape the harsh elements of the Kimberley and time to enjoy one of the most beautiful swimming beaches in the world.

Fishing with Aboriginal tour guide at Lombadina. (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — Go fishing with an Aboriginal tour guide at Lombadina. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive, WA

Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive provides tours and activities for guests of all ages and fitness levels to experience the Ningaloo Reef. The tours include an Interaction swim with a Whalesharks day tour, Swim with Humpback whale tours and the lovely relaxing Humpback sunset tour.

Female swimming with a Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) at Ningaloo Marine Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — Go swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

15. Alice Springs Helicopters, NT

Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights and private charters, over Alice Springs township, East and West MacDonnell Ranges, Old Telegraph Station, Mt Gillen, Heavitree Gap, and Simpsons Gap, just to mention a few. All flights showcase the amazing natural landscapes of the Red Centre region and are available daily.

A visitor aboard a helicopter tour over Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Salty Aura) — Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights. (Image: Tourism NT and Salty Aura)

16. Nitmiluk Tours, NT

Consisting of 13 separate gorges, Nitmiluk Gorge is a maze of waterways sculpted from the sandstone over countless millennia by the Katherine River. Nitmiluk Tours is the specialist agent offering a great variety of tours that allow you to immerse yourself in the history, rugged beauty and culture of this majestic region.

Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Charlie Bliss)

17. Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris, NT

Mt Borradaile is a registered Aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. From floodplains to savannah woodlands, Davidson’s Arnehmland Safaris focus is on sustainable tourism showcasing the pristine natural environment and local indigenous culture of the Amurdak people.

A couple enjoying a tour with Davidson's Arnhemland safaris (Image: Tourism Australia and James Fisher) — Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris at Mt Borradaile is a registered aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. (Image: Tourism Australia and James Fisher)

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18. Venture North Safaris, NT

Venture North offer guided micro-group 4WD tours from Darwin in the Northern Territory. Catering to the higher end of the touring market they specialise in taking guests off the beaten track in style. Touring routes included Kakadu, Litchfield and Katherine but also the more remote area such as the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.

Venture into Arnhem Land and be immersed in Aboriginal culture on Venture North's 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. (Image: Tourism NT and James Fisher) — Venture into Arnhem Land and be immersed in Aboriginal culture on Venture North’s 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. (Image: Tourism NT and James Fisher)

19. Northern Territory Indigenous Tours, NT

Northern Territory Indigenous Tours offers an expert interpretation of the Top End’s natural and cultural environment from an Aboriginal viewpoint. Experience inspiration, education and adventure in comfort and safety on the owner, guide and former park ranger, Tess Atie’s rugged and beautiful country.

20. Kimberley Quest, WA

Kimberley Quest is a luxury cruise company operating a range of extended wilderness expeditions along the stunning Kimberley coast, cruising between Broome and Darwin. With a maximum of 18 guests, you will cruise in complete comfort and luxury on Kimberley Quest II, a 25-metre vessel custom-designed for relaxing and exploring.

21. Great Adventures Green Island Cruises, Qld

From Cairns, Great Adventures operates ecotourism-based cruises to tropical Green Island , which is also home to the eco-sensitive Green Island Resort. With Great Adventures, you can choose from full and half-day trips to Green Island.

Great Adventures runs daily cruises to tropical Green Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

22. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Qld

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the ultimate eco-adventure for the traveller that enjoys experiencing wildlife in a natural setting. This award-winning attraction offers an activity-packed day with crocodile cruises and an array of wildlife presentations.

Aerial view of crocodile feeding from the boat cruise. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Feeding time… (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. Saltwater Eco Tours, Qld

Operating on the peaceful waterways of the Mooloolah River, Saltwater Eco Tours is the first of its kind on the Sunshine Coast. Combining Indigenous culture, maritime history, and live music, and surrounded by the beauty of the coastline and ocean in view, Saltwater Eco Tours truly captures the essence of the Sunshine Coast.

Group enjoying bush tucker inspired catering. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Enjoy the delicious catering with a bush twist. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

24. Ocean Safari Cape Tribulation, Qld

Ocean Safari offers an exhilarating 25-minute ride to snorkel the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef off the Daintree Coast at Cape Tribulation. This half-day eco-tour visits two different snorkel destinations, Mackay and Undine Reefs, each with an extraordinary array of marine life, turtles and coral species.

Ocean Safari Tour at Mackay Cay. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — Do you know the difference between an island and a sand cay? (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

25. Sailaway, Qld

Sailaway sets off from Port Douglas and sets the highest level of nature experiences on the Great Barrier Reef. Offering first-class service, small numbers of guests, premium sailing and snorkelling experiences to Low Isles and Mackay/Undine Coral Cays.

Outer Reef Tour. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — The day trip from Port Douglas is dreamy. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

26. Ocean Freedom – Cairns Premier Reef and Island Tours, Qld

Ocean Freedom provides a first-class way to experience the Great Barrier Reef without the crowds. Ocean Freedom is the only boat in Cairns offering a full 6 hours on the reef, meaning there’s absolutely no rush in the day. Experience an adventure drift snorkel tour and jump on board for an informative glass bottom boat tour.

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.