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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: AUD
- Languages: English
- Climate: Temperate Oceanic
- Timezone: Australia/Melbourne
- Population: Approximately 220,000 people live in the Central Highlands region of Victoria.
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and many other countries typically require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa to enter Australia, which can be obtained online before travel. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival, but most tourists must apply in advance. A valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds are commonly required.
About Central Highlands
The Central Highlands of Victoria, Australia, is a captivating region known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a peaceful escape from urban life with its pristine natural landscapes and charming small towns. Visitors are drawn to the Central Highlands for its unique blend of outdoor adventure, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting, alongside cultural experiences such as visiting historic gold rush towns and indigenous heritage sites. The region’s temperate climate makes it an ideal year-round destination, with vibrant wildflower displays in spring and stunning autumn foliage. The Central Highlands is also renowned for its artisanal food and wine, providing a taste of local produce in cozy cafes and wineries. Whether seeking tranquility in nature or engaging in active exploration, travelers find the Central Highlands a rewarding and authentic Australian experience.
Top Attractions
1. Lake Daylesford – A serene lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths, perfect for picnics and relaxation. 2. Hepburn Springs – Famous for its natural mineral springs and spa retreats offering rejuvenating wellness experiences. 3. Wombat State Forest – Offers extensive trails for hiking and mountain biking through ancient eucalyptus forests. 4. Daylesford Sunday Market – A vibrant market showcasing local crafts, fresh produce, and gourmet foods. 5. Mount Franklin Reserve – A scenic volcanic crater with walking tracks and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on well-maintained trails through forests and reserves. Wildlife watching is popular, with opportunities to see native animals in their natural habitats. The region’s mineral springs provide spa and wellness experiences. Cultural tours include exploring historic gold mining towns and indigenous heritage sites. Seasonal festivals and local markets offer immersive cultural and culinary experiences.
Central Highlands Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Guatemala
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on well-maintained trails through forests and reserves. Wildlife watching is popular, with opportunities to see native animals in their natural habitats. The region’s mineral springs provide spa and wellness experiences. Cultural tours include exploring historic gold mining towns and indigenous heritage sites. Seasonal festivals and local markets offer immersive cultural and culinary experiences.
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes and comfortable walking shoes for outdoor activities. Respect local customs and natural environments, especially in protected areas. Carry sufficient cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards. Stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors. Always check weather conditions before hiking or outdoor excursions.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $220
563 Available Tour Excursions in Central Highlands
You´ll discover the unique flavors of the local cooking while learning about traditional ways of life. As part of this class, you will visit a local market, choose exotic ingredients, and learn to cook 5 typical dishes. (3 main dishes and 2 complements) We will bring you to the local market where you can sample a lot of the exotic fruits. Maybe you had no clue what half the fruits were. Without a local guide, you would’ve missed out on so many food opportunities! If you are interested in Private options contact directly the supplier.
Price: $85.00
Duration: 4 hours
On this tour you will learn the artisanal process of coffee from seed to cup, with one of the small coffee farmers in this region. This activities support small farmers and their families allowing economical growth for the whole community. You will taste a high quality coffee and you will have the opportunity to make the complete process of roasting and grinding it.
Price: $30.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
Antigua and Guatemala City are connected by and excellent highway (30 Mls). Book safely and promptly your ground transfer from your hotel in Antigua to the airport with us. All our units are recent models, with A/C, reclinable seats, passenger insurance and GPS monitored. Morning traffic to enter Guatemala City is something to always have in mind. To calculate your pick up time, please take your flight´s departure time and consider 2 hours prior take off, please also add 1:30hrs “road time” for flights that leave from 5 to 7am or from 11am or later and 2hrs (road time) for flights that leave from 7am to 10am
Price: $25.00
Duration:
Visit our organic, self-sustaining farm located just 15 minutes from the heart of Antigua! Here, you will roast, grind, brew and enjoy a cup of local Guatemalan coffee. Learn about fermentation and drying processes and experience our pulp remover in action during harvesting season. Explore our avocado plantation and make your own guacamole (seasonal) and corn tortillas. Discover the latest honey production technology and learn about the bees' critical role in food production. Learn about sustainable farming principles, including composting, fertilizing, and recycling. During the tour you will also meet the farms newest addition: Our chickens and ducks, producing organic eggs and natural fertilizer for all our plants and trees. Our passionate owner, fluent in English and Spanish, is deeply invested in the tour, offering an engaging and educational experience for all. Join us and learn about the (delicious!) benefits of organic farming! Bring a hat, sunscreen & insect repellent.
Price: $59.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
Come discover the wonders of the Guatemalan countryside by mountain bike. We focus on ensuring your experience is incredible, offering you quality services with safety and the best care. On our scheduled treks, we explore incredible mountain routes with wonderful villages, magical ancient sites, forests, paths, trails, rivers, bridges, and mountains, all with spectacular views, for levels ranging from beginners to intermediates. You're always accompanied by the best group of guides with extensive mountain knowledge and certified paramedics, all of whom are expert cyclists. The next crossing is: Saturday July 26 - 38Kms - Strong Beginner Level, Not First Timers. "Iximché Pueblo Real" We leave by private bus from Guatemala City included. More information in the "What to Expect" section
Price: $145.00
Duration: 13 hours
Lake Atitlan without a doubt is one of the most beautiful destinations in Guatemala. Book your private transportation to this place quickly and safely and enjoy the comfort of our vans and well experienced staff. Pickups are available from any hotel in Guatemala city or Antigua. If your travel plan implies to go directly from Guatemala city airport to Lake Atitlan, don´t forget to send your arrival information.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 3 hours
We will pick you up at your Hotel and the guide will take you around some beautifull towns around Antigua that you probably wouldn't visit without a local guide. There you will try incredible and unique street food dishes made by the locals themselves, each place will be a delicious surprise for you. You will learn about the history and culture of each town you visit. All locations are family businesses with unique recipes. Not recommend for vegetarian, vegans or gluten free.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 3 hours
We present you Guatemala City the way you like it, by bike. You will get to know its green areas, monuments, history and current lifestyle in a flat and pleasant tour. 98% use of safe cycle paths in an environment of trees and nature.
Price: $70.00
Duration: 4 hours
Pacaya volcano is one of the many (active) located around Antigua, the former capital of Guatemala, and perhaps the most accessible. The last big eruption of Pacaya volcano was in 2010. Until 2016, it was actually possible to see lava from up close during the hike – different tour companies took different routes. During sunset hikes, as soon as it got a bit dark, the volcano could be seen throwing smoke and lava.
Price: $106.67
Duration: 6 hours
Getting to know Guatemala City at Night in a Classic Safari vehicle is a wonderful experience where you will find another way of knowing around, taking pictures of the beautiful classic and modern buildings, not only on the contemporary part of the metropolitan area but also on the historical district. The lighting of the architecture of Guatemala at Night is something that you´ll always remember.
Price: $50.00
Duration: 1-1 hours
Our Pacaya Day tour starts at 7:00 am. Our driver will pick you up at your hotel´s door. The transportation services are private for you and your companion or group. All our vans are A/C, reclinable seats and cooler on board. The drive from Antigua to Pacaya Volcano National Park takes 1:30hrs. The activity difficulty is moderate, taking around two hours. Once you go down, you have free time for refreshments. The detailed itinerary goes as follows: 07:00 am - Antigua hotel pick up 08:30 am - Arrival at Pacaya National Park 08:45 am - Guide meeting and Hiking tour at a place 11:00 am - Arrival to the top and time to enjoy the view 11:30 am - Return to the van 12:30 am - Free time for refreshments (Bottled water and Soda or beer included per person) 01:00 pm - transfer from Pacaya NP to Antigua Guatemala 02:30 pm - Arrival at hotel in Antigua
Price: $95.00
Duration: 7-8 hours
If you´re looking for the best way to travel from Antigua to Lake Atitlan or, vice-versa, this is an excellent choice. These two beautiful locations are 2 1/2 hours apart. To make your trip comfortable and pleasant, all our minivans are equipped with A/C and reclinable seats. They are recent models with insurance for passengers and our drivers are friendly and well experienced. With our private one-way shuttle service, you can book our minivans exclusively for your family or group of friends. To make your time on the road less exhausted, the driver can do 1 or 2 stops along the road. There are good restaurants with small handicraft exhibits, and it might be a good idea to stop for some minutes, stretch legs, buy good cup-of-coffee, use facilities or shop for local products. This is a great option if you want to book a safe, comfortable and reliable transport.
Price: $65.00
Duration: 3 hours
Come to be part of this Guatemalan community where love is shown through food, sharing and enjoying a delicious dish living a unique experience with a family. Learning unique Guatemalan stories and traditions of this beautiful town that you will discover.
Price: $35.00
Duration: 3 hours
Pepian is one of Guatemala emblematic dishes, however on this cooking experience, you will learn how to make the Mayan San Antonio Aguas Calientes recipe: An explosion of flavors thanks to Mayan techniques. A unique experience you won’t see at any restaurant or cooking school.
Price: $69.00
Duration: 2 hours
Our adventure starts at 6:00 am with our team picking you up at your hotel. The transportation service included in this tour is private, exclusively for you and your companion or group. All our vehicles are recent models with A/C, reclinable seats, and a cooler on board. The guide will accompany you along the tour to share the fascinating history and secrets of these destinations. The detailed itinerary goes as follows: 07:00 am - Antigua hotel pick up 09:30 am - Arrival at Chichicastenango and tour at the village visiting the following places: Market, churches and typical stores 12:30 pm - Tour ending and free time to have lunch (meal not included in price) 02:00 pm - Transfer from Chichicastenango to Iximche 03:30 pm - Arrival at Mayan ruins and tour 05:00 pm - Transfer from Iximche to Antigua Guatemala 06:30 pm - Arrival at Antigua
Price: $120.00
Duration: 10-11 hours
Interesting walking tour through Antigua Guatemala and an important village in the volcano skirt. Culture and architecture going to be part of it, including beautiful landscapes and local gastronomy.
Price: $35.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
How do locals eat? On this food tour we’ll visit one of Guatemala’s biggest markets to taste some of our famous local “Antojitos” and see the variety and colors of fruits and vegetables on market days. Then a hands on experience of making your own criollo corn tortillas with a delicious traditional lunch.
Price: $90.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
This is the best sightseeing adventure tour around Antigua! This unique tour is done on Motorcycles were you choose to be a driver or a back seat rider. Visit 5 Mountain attractions around Antigua and an amazing dirt trail through one of the mountains, which includes El Cerrro de San Cristobal El Alto, an organic farm that has the best view of the valley. Hobbitenango a unique ¨Hobbitt¨ theme lodge and restaurant located in one of the highest mountain in Antigua, ¨Earth Lodge¨ a relaxing EcoLodge Avocado farm that has unique and wonderful views of the valley, volcanoes, and nature, and finally Santa Maria de Jesus, a completely indigenous village located over a mile above sea level. There are plenty of stops to grab a drink, snacks and food, the tour covers about 50 km of riding all over the valley. The last stop of the tour is ¨El Cerro¨ de La Cruz the most popular landmark of antigua for a great aerial view of Antigua and the villages around the valley.
Price: $79.00
Duration: 5 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Central Highlands.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
The Central Highlands cuisine emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with a focus on artisanal and farm-to-table dining. Signature dishes include hearty Australian pub fare, fresh trout from local streams, and seasonal vegetable dishes. The region is also known for its cool-climate wines and craft beers. Noteworthy dining spots include boutique cafes in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, where visitors can enjoy gourmet breakfasts, organic produce, and innovative menus reflecting the region’s culinary creativity.
Getting Around
The Central Highlands is accessible by car from Melbourne, approximately a 90-minute drive. Regional buses and limited train services connect some towns, but public transport is sparse. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and ease of exploring the area. Local taxis and ride-sharing services are available in larger towns. Road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained highways and rural roads.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes and comfortable walking shoes for outdoor activities. Respect local customs and natural environments, especially in protected areas. Carry sufficient cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards. Stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors. Always check weather conditions before hiking or outdoor excursions.
Culture & Customs
The Central Highlands has a friendly, laid-back culture with strong ties to nature and local heritage. Social customs emphasize respect for the environment and community. Indigenous culture is celebrated through art and festivals, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect Aboriginal heritage. Local events often feature music, food, and crafts, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Politeness and casual greetings are common social norms.
