26 ECO-certified tours around Australia

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
hero media
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)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

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)
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)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

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)
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.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
View profile and articles
Delta Aquariids meteor shower
Australia

A double meteor shower is about to light up Australian skies, but there’s a catch

Two separate meteor showers are set to peak on the very same night this year. The catch? A very bright moon might crash the party.

Read more
falls creek
Australia

Australia’s ski season is finally here, just in time for the school holidays 

After a dry spell in June, Australia’s ski fields are finally blanketed in snow – and there's more powder on the way.

Read more
Cabin Fever in Margaret River, WA
Australia

What’s on around Australia in July 2026

If 2026 won't slow down, we won't either. Consider your July calendar booked.

Read more
the aurora australis (southern lights) from Southern Ocean Lodge
Australia

These luxury lodges give you a front-row seat to the sky’s greatest light show

The hottest new accommodation amenity is 400 light-years away – and it might be the most compelling reason yet to book a holiday this season.

Read more
hero media

Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

    Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
    Continue
    Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

    Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

    Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

    Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

    Getting there, and around

    Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
    Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

    The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

    Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

    Where to stay

    Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
    Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

    Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

    Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

    Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

    pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
    Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

    The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

    For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

    Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

    Where to eat

    coca chu on hamilton island
    Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

    Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

    Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

    Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

    Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
    Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

    For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

    Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

    Where to explore

    hamilton island couple running on trail
    Explore the island’s walking trails.

    There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

    One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

    For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

    E-mountain biking on hamilton island
    Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

    Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

    Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

    Where to play

    heart reef
    Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

    Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

    Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

    Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

    Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

    More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

    Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

    To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.