A hiker enjoying the serene views on a trail leading to Fortress Falls in the Blue Mountains, a destination known for the best Blue Mountains tours. The expansive valley and dense forest create a picturesque backdrop.
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10 Best Blue Mountains Tours: Abseiling, 4×4, Stargazing, E-Bike, And More!

The Blue Mountains is one of those places that seems to have it all – jaw-dropping landscapes, charming wildlife, and just the right amount of adventure.

We spent a few months there and never got bored! Because when it comes to tours, they’re all brilliant in their own way.

You’ve got everything from guided hikes through lush rainforests to thrilling abseiling adventures, and even glow worm spotting at night!

Woman standing at the top of a small cascade in Fortress Falls surrounded by lush greenery, a must-see spot featured in the best tours in the Blue Mountains. A perfect setting for nature lovers.
Look at those views!!! Fortress Falls, Blue Mountains

But here’s the trick: the best tour for YOU depends on what you’re after.

So, we’ve rounded up the absolute best Blue Mountains tours to help you choose the one that fits your vibe.

This guide has two sections – one with 7 half-day or full-day tours from any of the towns in Blue Mountains (Katoomba, Blackheath, Wentworth Falls, etc), and another with 3 tours from Sydney.

So regardless of what you’re after, we’re sure there’s something here that you will absolutely love!

Let’s get started:

In a hurry? Here are some EPIC tours in the Blue Mountains, NSW

7 Incredible tours in the Blue Mountains

We recognise the traditional owners of this land, the Darug and Gundungurra peoples.

If you’re already in the Blue Mountains and are looking for some epic things to do, check out these tours:

Note: Most of the links included are GUARANTEED to have the lowest price available, 24-hour free cancellation, and “Reserve Now, Pay Later” features. Take advantage of that!

1) Beyond Skyway Experience (Scenic World)

Sunset Tour | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Thrill-seekers looking for something different – stand atop the Scenic Skyway cable car 270 metres above the Jamison Valley!

This is one of the most thrilling things we’ve ever done!

You’ll climb onto the roof of the Scenic Skyway in Scenic World, to watch the sunset with an unobstructed 360-degree view of the Blue Mountains.

It’s very intimate (only 4 people allowed) and you feel very safe at all times. They tether the cameras and phones to you – if you drop it, you’ll never see it again!

It’s pricey, but so worth it. You can either book the experience for a specific date, or purchase the flexible pass which is valid for a year.

2) Abseiling Adventure in Blue Mountains National Park

Half-Day | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Thrill-seekers eager to experience the Blue Mountains from a vertical perspective, abseiling cliffs up to 30 metres high!

An adventurer abseiling down a rugged cliff in the Blue Mountains, part of an exhilarating and great tour in the Blue Mountains. The steep rock face and lush surroundings amplify the thrill.
Abseiling in the Blue Mountains is a bucket-list item

Abseiling in the Blue Mountains is incredible, and an excellent place to try this out if it’s your first time!

This tour is perfect for beginners, as it starts with a gentle 5-metre abseil to help you get comfortable with the ropes and techniques.

As your confidence builds, you’ll move on to a 15-metre descent. Then you’ll finish by going down a 30-metre cliff!

The guides will give you all the training you need and make sure you have an epic (and safe) experience. Are you ready for some adrenaline?

Pros:

  • Fully qualified instructor

  • Small group size allows for personalised instruction.

  • Progressive difficulty levels cater to both beginners and thrill-seekers.

  • All technical equipment is provided.

  • Lowest price guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • Starts from Katoomba, no pick-up and drop-off from Sydney

Had a great time! Gemma was amazing, would definitely book again. She was extremely knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a great time.

-Jazmine

3) Scenic World 1-Day Unlimited Discovery Pass

Full-Day | Self-Guided | Check tour here

Best for: Visitors keen on riding all the rides of Scenic World at their own pace.

The Scenic World Cableway gliding through the lush forested cliffs of the Blue Mountains, offering unique perspectives on great Blue Mountains tours. A must-try experience for visitors.
A ride on the Scenic World Cableway in the Blue Mountains

This pass grants you all-day access to the four main attractions of Scenic World, with unlimited access throughout the day:

  • Scenic Railway: The world’s steepest passenger railway!

  • Scenic Skyway: Glide between clifftops and gaze at the rainforest canopy through the glass floor, with views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, and Mt Solitary.

  • Scenic Cableway: Descend into the Jamison Valley, with a different perspective of the Blue Mountains.

  • Scenic Walkway: A 2.4-kilometre elevated boardwalk through lush rainforest.

This pass is very convenient as you can fully explore the area at your own pace and ride these epic cable cars whenever!

Pros:

  • Unlimited access to all attractions allows for flexible exploration.

  • Same price for kids and adults.

  • Operates in all weather conditions.

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • No hotel pickup or drop-off.

  • No food included.

This was an excellent day out comprising of walking the Cliff Top Walk, riding the Sky Way, the funicular Scenic Railway (steepest in the world) and walking the trails at the bottom. Very good value for money, as you can ride the attractions as many times as you like within your ticket day/s.

-Alison

4) Stargazing tour with an astrophysicist in the Blue Mountains

Evening Tour | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Anyone keen to explore the Southern Hemisphere’s night sky under the guidance of an experienced astrophysicist.

A clear night sky in the Blue Mountains showcasing the Milky Way, perfect for stargazing during the best Blue Mountains tours. The dark sky offers an unforgettable celestial view.
Stargazing tours are life-changing

If you’ve ever looked up at the stars and wondered what’s out there, this tour is for you!

The guide is a passionate astrophysicist, who will teach you how to spot constellations, planets, and galaxies with the naked eye and through a powerful telescope.

Depending on the night, you could even see planets like Saturn or Jupiter, the moon’s craters, or even distant galaxies!

Pros:

  • Small group for a more personal experience.

  • Expert guide.

  • Astronomical binoculars and professional telescope included.

  • Hot chocolate and warm blankets to keep you warm.

  • Lowest price guarantee if you book through this link

Cons

  • Non-refundable if you cancel.

  • If there’s bad weather, they don’t do refunds but you can either get a gift voucher to reschedule your tour (valid for 3 years and transferable) OR attend their indoor Planetarium Astronomy tour.

What an excellent way to spend an evening! A fascinating and well-run event! Tom and Alka were extremely knowledgeable and friendly, they helped answer all our questions and really engaged with the group! Would highly recommend and would definitely return!

-Holly

5) Army Truck 3-Hour Guided Tour

3-Hour Tour | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: History buffs and adventure seekers who want to explore the Blue Mountains in an open-air ex-army Land Rover, enjoying off-road trails and scenic views.

A woman standing on the edge of Burramoko Ridge with panoramic views of the Blue Mountains, a highlight of great tours in the region. Towering cliffs and endless forests create a dramatic scene.
Awe-inspiring views from Burramoko Ridge

This unique tour takes you off the beaten path of the Blue Mountains, while riding a vintage ex-Australian Army Land Rover!

You’ll go through lesser-known spots that can only be accessed by these types of vehicles, offering unique vantage points and incredible scenery far from the main tourist areas.

Plus the vehicle has open-air seating, so you’ll feel fully immersed in the natural surroundings as your guide navigates rugged trails, sharing insights about the region along the way.

Pros:

  • Small group size for a more personalised experience.

  • Thrilling ride in an open-air ex-army Land Rover.

  • Access to remote areas not covered by standard tours.

  • Lowest price guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • Minimum two travellers per booking.

  • No hotel pickup or drop-off.

We cannot rate this experience highly enough – it is simply the best tour you can pick for your time in the Blue Mountains. Paul was a brilliant tour guide; knowledgeable and interesting. The army truck was comfortable and safe and allowed excellent views as we drove to each look out point. (…) 10/10 all round.

-MRSSM

6) Hanging Rock Self-Guided E-Bike Tour

Half-Day | Self-Guided | Check tour here

Best for: Mountain bikers who want to explore one of the Blue Mountains’ most stunning trails with ease, thanks to the assistance of an electric mountain bike.

A woman with a white dress standing on the iconic Hanging Rock / Burramoko Ridge, a popular destination for the best tours in the Blue Mountains. The precarious rock formation offers jaw-dropping views.
Burramoko Ridge (taking this picture was thrilling, scary, and worth it!)

This self-guided e-bike tour is perfect for those who want the thrill of mountain biking without the extra physical strain.

Starting in Blackheath, you’ll follow the Burramoko Ridge Trail, which leads to Baltzer Lookout and the famous Hanging Rock.

The e-bike makes it easier to tackle hills and longer distances, letting you focus on the breathtaking views of the Grose Valley!

Everything you need is provided, including a quality e-bike, helmet, and trail map. You can set your own pace, enjoy peaceful stops along the way, and experience the natural beauty of this less-travelled route.

Pros:

  • E-bike assistance makes the ride accessible to various fitness levels.

  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace.

  • Stunning views at Baltzer Lookout and Hanging Rock.

  • Lowest price guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • Self-guided, so no guide support during the ride.

  • No pick-up or drop-off.

The organization was excellent and very professional sights were amazing Sam was excellent and had an enormous amount of knowledge

-Carol

7) Blue Mountains Hop On Hop Off Tour

3-day Pass | Self-Guided | Check tour here

Best for:  Budget-friendly travellers who are not driving to the Blue Mountains and are spending a few days there (up to 3).

A wooden sign for the historic Katoomba Coal Mine from 1878, a heritage highlight of the best Blue Mountains tours. The sign is set against rugged rock walls.
Exploring the historic Katoomba Coal Mine in the Blue Mountains

There’s excellent public transport from Sydney to the Blue Mountains, so thankfully you don’t need to bring your car.

However, you do need to move around the area! Which is where this Hop-On, Hop-Off bus comes in.

It takes you all over 29 locations of the Blue Mountains between Leura and Katoomba, including highlights like the Three Sisters, Echo Point, Scenic World, Leura Cascades, and more!

Plus, the buses run every 30 minutes so you won’t be waiting long. And you can hop on and off as much as you want for 3 days.

They also offer an upgrade that includes unlimited rides to Scenic World. This is cheaper than purchasing them separately, so it’s a great option if you want to save some money!

Pros:

  • Flexible schedule with buses running every 30 minutes.

  • Hop on and off as much as you want for 3 days.

  • Live commentary from knowledgeable drivers.

  • Upgrade to include Scenic World (very cost-effective).

  • Lowest price guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • Transport to the Blue Mountains not included, you’ll need to get there on your own.

  • No hotel pickup or drop-off.

The bus was great way to get around the area if you don’t want to rent a vehicle, and the drivers were personable and helpful. The schedule was actually every half hour instead of every hour, which was really convenient.

We thoroughly enjoyed Scenic World as well, and it definitely added value to the experience.

-Jennifer

3 Epic tours from Sydney to the Blue Mountains

If you don’t want to drive or plan anything, these are the best Blue Mountains tours that include pick up and drop off from Sydney:

8) From Sydney: Blue Mountains Day Trip All-Inclusive

Full-Day | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Travellers staying in Sydney who want to check out the highlights of the Blue Mountains without the hassle of planning.

The iconic Three Sisters rock formation in the Blue Mountains, framed by lush greenery and bright blue skies, often featured in the best tours of the Blue Mountains. A symbol of local Aboriginal legend.
The legendary Three Sisters rock formation in the Blue Mountains

This is perfect if it’s your first time in Sydney and want a taste of the stunning Blue Mountains!

It’s a great tour for those who’ve never visited, as it includes all the highlights – Echo Point and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, plus Scenic World (and hop on all the rides).

You’ll also visit either the Featherdale Wildlife Park or Sydney Zoo, so it’s excellent for the little ones. The adventure wraps up with a relaxing ferry cruise back to Sydney along the Parramatta River.

It includes lunch with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options!

Pros:

  • Small group for a more intimate experience.

  • All-inclusive: Entry fees, Scenic World rides, lunch, and ferry cruise.

  • Convenient pickup from central Sydney locations.

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • No hotel pickup or drop-off, you have to go to one of the 3 different locations (they’re very accessible though).

Rin was an excellent guide, keeping us entertained and humored between destinations. We reached all of the destinations safely and on time. We did a lot and consequently I will sleep very well tonight!

-Dana L

9) From Sydney: Blue Mountains Tour with Waterfall Walk

Full-Day | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Nature enthusiasts who want to do some hiking while exploring the area, plus lunch included!

The majestic Wentworth Falls cascading down a steep cliff face in the Blue Mountains, a must-visit stop on the best Blue Mountains tours. The surrounding bushland enhances its beauty
The breathtaking Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains

Looking for a nature-focussed, less-touristy tour? This is it!

This tour offers a more active adventure compared to the first, focusing on a 90-minute guided walk to the base of Wentworth Falls – a 187m cascade nestled within lush rainforest.

The hike is ~2km long and has lots of stairs, which can be challenging for some. But there’s plenty of time to stop and rest!

Plus, along the way, you’ll see several other waterfalls and breathtaking views over the Jamison Valley.

The itinerary also includes visits to iconic lookouts like Echo Point and the Three Sisters, plus Lincoln Rock, also known as Flat Rock.

A fresh, locally made picnic lunch is provided, catering to all dietary needs.

Pros:

  • Small group (15 people max).

  • Unique 90-minute waterfall walk to the base of Wentworth Falls.

  • Iconic lookouts like Echo Point and Lincoln Rock.

  • Lunch included.

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • No hotel pickup or drop-off, but the meeting point is accessible.

  • No time to visit Scenic World.

Awesome tour! Saw a lot of from several view points of the blue mountains. Guide grew up there so he was very knowledgeable, and he was loads of fun with lots of stories of the area and Aussie slang. Lunch was also excellent.

-Stefani

10) From Sydney: Glow Worm Night Tour

Night Tour | Small Group | Check tour here

Best for: Nature lovers who want to see the mindblowing glow worms at night, with a nice hike and a knowledgeable guide.

A hiker walking up a stone staircase surrounded by lush greenery and trees on the Leura Cascades Infinity Pool hike, a hidden treasure in the best tours in the Blue Mountains. The serene forest pathway invites exploration.
The hikes around Leura Cascades are also lovely

This night tour is absolutely epic! After picking you up from Sydney, your guide will take you on a nocturnal hike of the Blue Mountains to a glow worm cave.

These harmless insects literally glow in the dark, creating the most magical ambience. It’s a bucket-list thing to do for sure.

On the way, the guide shares insights about the area’s flora, fauna, and local bush survival techniques. You may even spot nocturnal wildlife during the hike!

It’s a great tour for everyone – from first-time visitors to those who know the area well. It’s something completely different to what most of us are used to.

Pros:

  • Small group size, making the experience more intimate.

  • Pick-up and drop-off from Sydney (8 pm to midnight).

  • Visit a glow worm cave and chance to see nocturnal wildlife.

  • Gear included (headlights with red light mode and water).

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance AND “Reserve Now and Pay Later” if you book through this link

Cons

  • Not kid-friendly, only participants +18 years old

Our glow worm tour was so good! Seeing them all in a cave was really cool it was like the glow in the dark stars you have as kids!! The walk to the cave we did was quite chill it was a bit rocky up and down but nothing crazy. Our tour guide Antonio was lovely and very informative. Would really recommend this tour.

-Daisy

Top Tips

When booking a tour in the Blue Mountains, look for flexible options like “Reserve Now, Pay Later” to secure your spot without upfront payment – this is especially useful if your plans aren’t set in stone!

Also, look into the cancellation policies of the tours. Being able to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance can be very helpful if your plans change.

Did you know?

The Blue Mountains aren’t technically mountains but a vast plateau that has been carved by millions of years of erosion!

Despite this, the dramatic cliffs and valleys make it feel like you’re surrounded by towering peaks.

Their name comes from the iconic blue haze that hovers over the landscape. This is caused by sunlight refracting through tiny droplets of eucalyptus oil released by the abundant gum trees in the region.

It’s a natural phenomenon unique to areas with dense eucalyptus forests.

FAQs

How much time do you need in the Blue Mountains?

We recommend at least 2 days in the Blue Mountains region.

A full-day tour is great to see the highlights (Scenic World and Echo Point), but the best way to enjoy this area is by hiking! You’d need at least 2 days for this.

The sweet spot would be 5 days though, as this would allow you to do more hikes and check out the waterfalls!

The bottom line

No matter what kind of adventure you’re after, there’s a Blue Mountains tour with your name on it!

Whether you’re gazing at glow worms under a starlit sky, hiking down to a cascading waterfall, or hanging off a 30-metre cliff (with a guide, of course), there’s something for everyone in this spectacular slice of New South Wales.

If you’ve been before or have a favourite tour from this list, let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear your thoughts or tips for others planning their Blue Mountains escape.

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