Animal Encounter Adelaide

Overview


Get ready to unplug and go off-grid on a three-day camping adventure through one of Australia's most biodiverse and beautiful landscapes. Just a short ferry ride from Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, affectionately known as nature's playground, is where native wildlife roams free, beaches look like postcards, and your days are filled with wild moments worth remembering.
Join our passionate Storyteller Guides and a small group of like-minded travellers as you hike windswept coastlines, meet endangered sea lions at Seal Bay, and marvel at 500-million-year-old rock formations in Flinders Chase National Park . Relax with tastings at a local honey farm and coastal winery, spot koalas in the treetops, and fall asleep under the stars.
You'll have the chance to contribute to citizen science through our Passport to Recovery partnership, and if you're craving an extra thrill, add an optional snorkel with wild dolphins or seals . Whether you're beach-hopping, stargazing, or helping keep this island wild with a meaningful beach clean-up, this trip strikes the perfect balance of adventure, connection, and purpose.
Hot tip: While summer brings the heat, the cooler months (April–September) offer epic wildlife encounters, clear skies, and fewer crowds. Trust us—winter on Kangaroo Island is a total vibe.

UNTAMED MOMENTS

· Explore Flinders Chase National Park's epic rock formations
· Wander amongst a fur seal colony at Seal Bay
· Immerse yourself in nature's playground on rewarding hikes
· Stargaze from your swag under the billions of stars of the Milky Way
· Swim at secluded white sandy beaches
· Taste the island's best local produce, from honey to wine
· Swim with seals or dolphins during an extraordinary wildlife experience (OE)

INCLUSIONS

· Accommodation - 2 x nights swag camping with amenities
· Return ferry from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
· Return SeaLink bus connection from Adelaide to Cape Jervis
· All activities and experiences, excluding the optional extra
· Meals as listed (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners)
· Wine and honey tasting
· All national park and entrance fees
· Storyteller Guide
· Transport – Air-conditioned coaster bus (max 20 people)


ITINERARY

Day 1 | Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
Wildlife & Coastal Wine Time
Rise bright and early to catch your 6:30 am SeaLink transfer from Adelaide to Cape Jervis . From here, jump on a 45-minute ferry ride across the Backstairs Passage to Penneshaw, where your Untamed Escapes guide will be waiting to welcome you to Kangaroo Island. After a group introduction and trip overview, learn how you can make a difference during your adventure by becoming a citizen scientist and contributing to wildlife conservation and recovery efforts in partnership with Passport to Recovery .
This morning, choose your own wild adventure:
Optional Extra – Swim with Dolphins or Seals
Join a two-hour marine safari with Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari and dive into crystal-clear waters to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins or long-nosed seals. Guided by passionate marine experts, this is a respectful, awe-inspiring experience that brings you face-to-face with nature at its most playful. Whether an experienced snorkeller or a first-timer, it's an unforgettable splash of adventure. (See more in Optional Extras below.)
Not snorkelling?
Set off on the Ironstone Hill hike, weaving through regenerating sheoak woodlands with sweeping coastal views steeped in history. Afterwards, visit a local honey farm to learn about Kangaroo Island's world-famous Ligurian bees, the only pure strain left on Earth. Enjoy a tasting and a relaxed picnic lunch before heading to Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery to discover the secrets behind this iconic Aussie product.
In the afternoon, the group reunites at Dudley Wines , a family-owned vineyard with sweeping ocean views located on the clifftop. Enjoy a wine tasting, kick back on the lawn with incredible ocean views, and toast to the start of your island adventure.
By late afternoon, we arrive at our eco-campsite, aptly named Happiness . Tucked into native bushland with private access to stunning Antechamber Bay, it's the perfect place to unwind. Walk to the beach, watch the sun dip low, and soak in the serenity.
Tonight, roll out your swag under the stars and fall asleep to the sounds of nature—pure, untamed magic.
Accommodation: Swag camping with amenities at our private campground, Happiness
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Distance Travelled: Approx. 280 km

Day 2 | Kangaroo Island
Sea Lion Encounters & Coastal Icons
After breakfast, it's time to kick off the day with one of Kangaroo Island's most iconic wildlife encounters. At Seal Bay, join a guided 45-minute tour with National Parks & Wildlife rangers and get up close with Australia's third-largest colony of endangered sea lions—around 800 call this place home. Wander the boardwalk through coastal dunes, spotting sea lions snoozing in the sun, sprawled across the beach, or even lying right across the path. Learn about the species' fight for survival and the conservation efforts helping to protect them.
Next up: an island icon. We head west to Flinders Chase National Park, a wild wonderland of rugged cliffs, native bush, and jaw-dropping rock formations. Stroll the boardwalk at Admirals Arch, keeping an eye out for New Zealand fur seals lounging below. Then prepare to be wowed by the legendary Remarkable Rocks—500 million years in the making and as photogenic as they come.
After a full day of wild beauty and epic sights, we roll back to camp for a chilled evening. Take some time to relax, swap stories with your travel mates, or wander down to the beach before dinner under the stars.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Swag camping with amenities at our private campground, Happiness
Distance Travelled: Approx. 350 km

Day 3 | Kangaroo Island to Adelaide
Koalas, Coastlines & Hidden Beaches
Kick off the final day with a refreshing morning bush walk near camp before packing up and hitting the road. First stop is Cape Willoughby , home to South Australia's first lighthouse. Perched above dramatic cliffs, it offers sweeping views and stories from Kangaroo Island's rich maritime past.
Next up is Pennington Bay , where powerful swells crash against the southern coastline. From here, tackle the 500 steps up to Prospect Hill , one of the island's highest vantage points. The panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort.
Afterwards, at Kingscote Jetty , there's time for a refreshing swim if you're keen before we head inland to Duck Lagoon. A peaceful spot surrounded by bushland and known for its laid-back vibe and koala sightings.
By lunchtime, we roll into Stokes Bay , a local favourite with a hidden rock tunnel leading to a seriously stunning beach. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take some time to unwind on the sand.
Before we wrap, we make one last stop at Emu Bay, voted Australia's best beach! With its long stretch of white sand and clear blue water, it's the perfect spot for a stroll, a quick dip, and a meaningful beach clean-up to help keep this pristine coastline wild and beautiful.
After an unforgettable few days, we arrive back in Penneshaw to catch the 5:30 pm ferry to Cape Jervis. From there, your bus connection will have you back in Adelaide by around 9:00 pm. A little salty, a lot inspired, and glowing from three days of island adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance Travelled: Approx. 340 km

Optional Extras

Snorkel with Dolphins or Seals – $195 pp
Hop aboard a 2-hour marine adventure with Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari and get ready for a wildlife encounter like no other. Cruise along the coastline and keep your eyes peeled for resident dolphin pods and long-nosed seals lounging on the rocks. Then dive in for an unforgettable snorkelling session—either with playful seals, wild dolphins, or if the wildlife is being elusive, along a stunning stretch of reef.
These animals are wild and free, so each experience is unique and entirely dependent on their behaviour on the day. Whether it's a dolphin swim, a seal snorkel, or a coastal reef exploration, it's guaranteed to be a splash of adventure.
Includes:
- 2 hour guided marine tour
- Wetsuits, snorkels, masks, and fins
- All safety gear and expert instruction
Add this experience when booking to secure your spot.


KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

General Information

· Tour timing: This tour begins in Adelaide on Day 1 between 6:15 am and 7:15 am and concludes in Adelaide between 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm on Day 3. The exact times depend on the time of year you are travelling and connecting SeaLink ferries. Our Customer Service Team will notify you of your pick-up and drop-off times two days before your departure.
· Ferry & Transfers: You will be picked up either by an Untamed Escapes bus or SeaLink connecting bus in Adelaide on Day 1 to take you to Cape Jarvis for your ferry. This will also be confirmed 2 days before you depart.
· Dietary requirements: Please let us know about any dietary needs when booking. We cater for most preferences and aim to provide fresh, varied meals. Snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are not included.
· Luggage limits: Each guest is allowed one soft travel bag or backpack (max 15 kg) plus a small daypack or piece of hand luggage.
· Minimum numbers: This tour requires a minimum of four travellers to run. If we need to cancel due to low numbers, we'll offer a transfer to a future date or a full refund.
· Before you book: Please read the information below and our full Booking Terms & Conditions to ensure this experience is right for you.

Accommodation & Camping

· This is a participatory camping tour , meaning guests are encouraged to get involved by helping with basic tasks, such as meal preparation and packing up camp.
· Camping accommodation is at a private property called Happiness at Antechamber Bay. Here, you can roll out your swag and camp under the stars in the camping area. The property also has a camp kitchen, bathroom and lounge facilities. It is only a 10-minute walk down a bush track to a magical beach.
· Swags: When camping, you'll sleep in a traditional Aussie swag —a sturdy canvas bed roll with a built-in mattress, used under the stars or in wet weather tents.
· Sleeping bags: We prefer passengers to provide their own sleeping bag and pillow to insert into the swag. Alternatively, you can hire a used one for $20. These options need to be added to your cart at the time of booking. We donate old and unused sleeping bags to a homeless charity, ensuring they go to good use after their time with us.
· Weather conditions: Be prepared for extreme weather, including high temperatures, cold temperatures, and exposure to the elements. In the event of wet weather , group tents will be provided for shared shelter. Should extreme weather affect the camping experience, alternative accommodation may be arranged . Any additional costs will be shared 50/50 between Untamed Escapes and guests .

Fitness & Mobility
Our adventure tours are best suited to travellers who love nature, hiking, and spending time outdoors, with a good dose of fun and group camaraderie. To get the most out of your experience, please consider the following:
· Fitness requirements: A moderate level of fitness is needed. On some days, you may be walking between 3 and 5 km, often on uneven ground and in hot or wet conditions.
· Mobility considerations: While there's no upper age limit, all travellers should self-assess their mobility and comfort with activities such as hiking, swimming, and swag camping. You'll need to be able to lift yourself from ground level, as swags are traditional ground-based bedding.
· Medical conditions: If you have any mobility concerns or pre-existing health conditions, we strongly recommend speaking with your doctor before booking. Please also inform our Customer Service Team and Guides of any relevant conditions before travel, so we can offer the right support.
· Fit for Travel declaration: All travellers must complete an online check-in, including a mandatory 'Fit for Travel' declaration, at least 24 hours before departure. This confirms you are free from illness and physically able to join the tour.
If you're unsure whether this trip is the right fit for you, please reach out, we're here to help.

Itinerary Changes
At Untamed Escapes, your safety and experience are our top priorities. Our guides are trained to adapt plans as needed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, rain or shine, or even in the face of a surprise detour. Here's what to keep in mind:
· Experienced Guidance: Our storytellers continually assess local conditions, such as weather, road access, and group dynamics, to deliver the best possible experience. For example, if it's wet or too cold for beach activities, we may substitute indoor experiences, such as a visit to the Lavender Farm, honey tasting at Island Beehive, or wine tasting at False Cape Wines.
· Dynamic Weather: Kangaroo Island's coastal climate can be unpredictable. We stay flexible and ready to respond to any sudden changes.
· Adjustments for Comfort & Safety:
– Itinerary changes may occur to improve your overall experience or respond to unexpected conditions.
– During warmer months (December to March), hikes may be scheduled earlier in the day to avoid the heat.
· Clear Communication: Your guide will always communicate any changes as early as possible and ensure the group is informed and supported throughout.
Rest assured—every adjustment is made with your comfort, safety, and experience in mind.

There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather...
Just Inappropriate Clothing
Sure, summer may be peak season on Kangaroo Island, but for nature lovers, the cooler months deliver just as much wild beauty and adventure. As the saying goes, "There's no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing."
In autumn, the winds drop and the skies stay bright and clear, making it an ideal time for snorkelling, bushwalking, and slow, scenic exploration. The calm weather creates postcard-perfect days on both land and sea.
Winter brings its own kind of magic. Birdlife is abundant, the coastline feels even more dramatic, and wildlife activity ramps up. Kangaroo joeys peek from their mothers' pouches, and young koalas cling to their mums' backs in the treetops. It's also whale season, with Southern Right Whales often spotted resting in sheltered bays during their annual migration.
Meanwhile, the island's bushland comes to life with vibrant wildflowers and native blooms—a dream for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who doesn't mind swapping sunshine for something a little more raw and real.