Exceptional Kangaroo Island
Exceptional Kangaroo Island
Exceptional Kangaroo Island
5
4WD, ATV & Off-Road ToursEco ToursPrivate ToursNature & Wildlife ToursDay Trips
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Full view
About
Exceptional Kangaroo Island is a family-owned eco-friendly tour company on Kangaroo Island off of the coast of South Australia. We are locals who understand travellers and know you want to make the best use of your limited holiday or vacation time. We know where to find the wildlife, all the cool spots, and importantly, can share the back-story of Kangaroo Island as it is the people you meet and stories you share that really make a trip memorable. Our business has been in operation since 1986 and we focus on bringing you the best experiences our Island home offers - the wildlife encounters, rural and wilderness landscapes, fresh local produce prepared by our in-house Executive Chef, travelling in comfortable four wheel drive vehicles and hosted by our enthusiastic local guiding team. The Island is big and there are lots of choices to make so our experienced planning team can assist in co-ordinating the travel, accommodation and experience sectors to ensure you have a relaxing trip.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia
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Travellers' Choice
2023
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Exceptional Kangaroo Island
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5.0
469 reviews
Excellent
430
Very good
24
Average
10
Poor
2
Terrible
3
Robert D
Brooklyn, New York2,683 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Solo
I was picked up when I arrived at Kangaroo Island airport and enjoyed a small group tour of the island. (I had wanted to do an overnight tour, but the second day was fully booked.) There were only five people on my tour and our guide was excellent.
Among the animals we saw on Kangaroo Island were several koalas and kangaroos, as well as several species of birds. It was nice to visit some remote spots that were off-the-beaten-path. A highlight of the day was the opportunity to walk on the same beach as the Australian sea lions. Lunch was lovely with grilled whiting and salad.
Exceptional Kangaroo Island also booked a shuttle bus to the ferry terminal after my tour. I caught the evening ferry to the mainland and then had a two hour bus ride to Adelaide. It was a long, but enjoyable day.
Among the animals we saw on Kangaroo Island were several koalas and kangaroos, as well as several species of birds. It was nice to visit some remote spots that were off-the-beaten-path. A highlight of the day was the opportunity to walk on the same beach as the Australian sea lions. Lunch was lovely with grilled whiting and salad.
Exceptional Kangaroo Island also booked a shuttle bus to the ferry terminal after my tour. I caught the evening ferry to the mainland and then had a two hour bus ride to Adelaide. It was a long, but enjoyable day.
Written 27 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mnbugs
Lleida, Spain2 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Couples
We are an older couple from the US. We visited Kangaroo Island in September of 2023. We had a private tour for two days through Extraordinary Kangaroo Island with Mark Watson as our guide. The experience was outstanding across the board - pleasant accommodation, comfortable transport, interesting lunch stops and so on, but the highlight was Mark and his amazing knowledge and skill. It was hard to believe we could see so much in just two days. We are especially interested in wildlife, especially birds, and we saw at least 40 species of birds, about one on every page of the nice bird identification booklet he gave us. Many were common birds that were exciting to us foreigners, but many were also shy or rare species we would never have found on our own. Mark seems to know them all personally and knows where to find them. We also saw lots of other wildlife, some rare and some common. He even found an echidna along the side of the road and we were able to watch it feeding. Amazing that he can drive briskly along a dirt road and spot a small slow-moving camouflaged creature. He’s a very good driver, and very patient and friendly. He covered a lot of ground quickly, but without making us feel rushed. He’s great with wildlife, but also very knowledgeable about the history and geography of the island. We enjoyed every minute and felt it was an excellent value.
Written 15 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your comprehensive review. You certainly chose the right tour given your specialist interest in our birdlife and we are pleased that you enjoyed Mark as your host. He combines a high level of knowledge and skill with a calm and friendly disposition and we know we are lucky to have him on our team. I will pass on your kind words.
Happy birding,
Craig
Written 20 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kathryn
New Hampshire54 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
We took two full day tours with Exceptional Kangaroos; one with Lee and one with Franck. Both were excellent and gave us a very clear overview of the Island. Lee shared his long-term experience as a native of KI, he has a fascinating background and provided great information. We saw the spectacular Remarkable Rocks, Admiral's Arch and koalas in the trees. Franck was equally informational, and, on his tour, we went to Seal Bay to get up close to the Sea Lions. It was magical and Franck taught us all about their habits. We also visited Stokes Bay where Franck led us through a tunnel of rocks, the only access to the beach. It was stunning. He took us through a field to a hidden spot where there was a covered picnic area and grilled some delicious fish, potatoes and halloumi. On both days, we had lovely lunches, white linens and wine.
I highly recommend the tours...be aware that there is a lot of driving time, but it is well worth it.
I highly recommend the tours...be aware that there is a lot of driving time, but it is well worth it.
Written 8 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your review and for giving potential travellers the heads up about the size of the Island and the driving time. We struggle to convey just how large the Island is. Hopefully the conversations and storytelling make the journey interesting and set you up for the next experience.
I will pass your kind words on to Lee and Franck.
Keep travelling!
Written 13 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
C-S-TravelersFromCA
Sacramento, CA171 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
Cannot rave enough about the two one-day tours we booked, Island Life and Flinders Chase Focus. Both were truly exceptional and first-class.
We had different guides for each tour - Lee and Franck, respectively. They both provided thorough and fascinating information about KI, its history, the sights and wildlife. They both took us to spots off the beaten path, where we could see wildlife. The Remarkable Rocks (Flinders Chase) were truly - remarkable! The freshly prepared and delicious lunches were served on a white tablecloth, with cloth napkins and real dishes. And wine - as well as a selection of other beverages. In addition, they provided gluten free food for my husband (celiac), including at morning tea.
We were especially fortunate to be the only ones to have booked Flinders Chase Focus on that date, so it ended up being a private tour. And Franck was great at accommodating our last-minute request to enable us to leave a bit earlier to catch an earlier ferry.
Communication with the company prior to the tour was excellent and they provided many helpful suggestions, including transportation information, recommended tours based on our interests, and other logistics. The caliber of these tours made KI one of the highlights of a 5-week trip to Australia & NZ.
We had different guides for each tour - Lee and Franck, respectively. They both provided thorough and fascinating information about KI, its history, the sights and wildlife. They both took us to spots off the beaten path, where we could see wildlife. The Remarkable Rocks (Flinders Chase) were truly - remarkable! The freshly prepared and delicious lunches were served on a white tablecloth, with cloth napkins and real dishes. And wine - as well as a selection of other beverages. In addition, they provided gluten free food for my husband (celiac), including at morning tea.
We were especially fortunate to be the only ones to have booked Flinders Chase Focus on that date, so it ended up being a private tour. And Franck was great at accommodating our last-minute request to enable us to leave a bit earlier to catch an earlier ferry.
Communication with the company prior to the tour was excellent and they provided many helpful suggestions, including transportation information, recommended tours based on our interests, and other logistics. The caliber of these tours made KI one of the highlights of a 5-week trip to Australia & NZ.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your comprehensive review - and the fact that you enjoyed the touches provided by the whole team - the reservations crew, catering and guiding. Our team takes pride in offering an integrated experience so it is pleasing to see you appreciate the full suite of services.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CJS
Florida5 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
We took the 2 full day excursion. Lee was a terrific guide; very knowledgeable and keen on ensuring that we experienced all the highlights of the island. His local knowledge definitely enhanced the experience. The beautifully prepared, and relatively healthy, lunches were a plus. They coordinated our stay at the lovely Providence guest house which was one of the highlights. The hosts were friendly and accommodating, and the home cooked meals were a delight. Highly recommend it.
Written 8 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nice of you to review our tours, Lee's hosting and also the experience from Tony and Lianne at Providence. Glad you enjoyed the food - I will pass that on to the catering team in our kitchen. Keep travelling!
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Inspiration784051
2 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
Lee gave my family a magical tour of Kangaroo Island. With his extensive knowledge of the island, its history and its wild animal life, he was able to bring the island to life for us. We don't know how he was able to spot all the wildlife we saw - kangaroos, koalas, a goanna, amazing birds (rosellas, gallahs, kuckaburras, parrots and more) and sea lions. He did more than spot wildlife for us - he gave us great background on how the animals we saw live; provided fascinating details on the history of the island; and explained how plant life evolved and adapted. And, his cooking skills were incredible too! We can't imagine a better guided tour.
Written 29 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your enthusiastic review - Lee will be pleased to know you enjoyed travelling with him. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gabster130913
Greater Sydney, Australia102 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Couples
A small group tour eco adventure. Well catered, personal service and good company. Embraced island life and ocean views over 3 days travel across the island learning from environmental experts passionate about island wildlife. Spotted kangaroos, echidnas, wallabies and koalas in their natural habitats as well as the many fur seals lining the coastline.
Written 29 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your enthusiastic summary of your time with us. Come back and see us again soon.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Freedom537856
1 contribution
Jul. 2023 • Family
Amazing tour with Tim Williams as an amazing and knowledgeable guide. Tim is very good at spotting koala's! We recommend the tour to everybody travelling to Kangaroo Island
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks - will pass your kind words on to the enthusiastic Tim
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ferne A
2 contributions
Jul. 2023 • Couples
The 2 day tour showed us some awesome views and sites. What a beautiful Island. Although the weather was rainy and very windy, it gave us Mother Nature at its finest, WOW! - The Seals, Admirals Arch etc. What an experience. Morning Tea and Lunch was beautiful and delicious. Thanks Michael for the wonderful experience on our tour, you spoilt us rotten. We would definitely recommend this tour company.
Written 15 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So glad you could enjoy the Island and the elemental nature of our rugged coastline. Glad you enjoyed touring with Michael - he is a gem!
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pat
Decorah, IA24 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
Roberta, our guide and driver, was fantastic. She was knowledgeable and fun. We saw so much of the island, had time to explore (as at Remarkable Rocks), and were treated to mid morning tea—white tablecloth and lamingtons, and an equally wonderful lunch,
cooked by Roberta, in the outdoors.
So glad we did tours with this company.
cooked by Roberta, in the outdoors.
So glad we did tours with this company.
Written 7 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks @PatfromIowa - appreciate you taking the time to review your tour with Roberta. So glad you enjoyed your time with us.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We have 3 days and 2 nights could someone please advise us some good accommodation such as a hotel or motel for the trip where we can see most attractions and have a great couple of days sight seeing and wondering around thanks.
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
There are a range of places to stay - larger properties with restaurants like Ozone or Kangaroo Island Lodge. Good value is the KI Seaside and if you want to splurge look at Molly’s Run or Stranraer Homestead. These properties are east of centre but not as much travel compared to staying at either extreme. The Island is MUCH bigger than many people expect.
trinamon
Sydney, Australia12 contributions
Hi, I have a car for about 8 hours, picking up from Penneshaw. Not sure where to go in this time frame. Would like to see wild life and also swim at a safe beach as it will be February. Tours do not suit me as I am travelling with my autistic son and we are not comfortable in groups or crowds, so I hired our own car. I suppose they will give me a map and some advice but I thought I would ask here as well.
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
Hi sorry for the delay in responding. February can be a challenge for wildlife on a self-drive - cruise ships by definition have you on the Island through the middle of the day which is the toughest time to find wildlife. You should be able to spot kangaroos around Pelican Lagoon - make sure you pull well off the road. You might encounter echidnas or goannas crossing the road anywhere on the Island.You will need to go at least as far as Cygnet River to find koalas - Duck Lagoon and the road leading off the highway to it is a good spot. Emu Bay is a great swimming beach - very safe. Many people make the mistake of trying to see too much in a one day cruise visit - to get to Remarkable Rocks and back you could potentially cover well in excess of 300km... Hope this helps
artisteaucoeur
Harrisburg104 contributions
From what I am seeing, we definitely want to book a tour. That said, How would we make such arrangements if we are staying in Adelaide? It sounds like the Ferry takes too long, and if we fly into Kingscote, how do we get to a location from which a tour leaves? Do you have suggestions? This is a priority part of the trip for us, and we haven't yet made any accommodations or interior flight plans. We would be coming in July. Do you recommend certain accommodations there? Any assistance is appreciated. Thanks!
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
Hi there,
I am the owner of Exceptional Kangaroo Island and happy to assist you with any questions. We are able to book the tour, plus accommodation (room only or dinner/bed/breakfast) and air ex Adelaide. Our tours connect with the Regional Express flight which arrives at 1005 daily. Accommodation properties we use regularly for small group share touring guests are Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Ozone, Kangaroo Island Seaside Inn, Stranraer Homestead, Molly's Run and Wanderer's Rest. Our website has information on these properties and we can package it up for you. I am travelling in the US at present and depart home tomorrow so might be a little slow to respond over the next 24-48 hours.
Regards,
Craig
MKP5456
Ahmedabad, India554 contributions
Hi, We (Husband and wife) coming to Melbourne on 10.02.2015 and will stay in Travelodge Dockland for a week.
1. What are your tours and charges?
2. Any concession if we take more than one trip?
3. How far you are located from Hotel? Will you pick us from hotel.
5. My wife has little back problem so she prefers to sit in front seats. Is it possible to ensure?
6. Can I pay once I come there.
7. Any difference in price if it is cash or card?
Mukesh Padia
New Delhi India
+91-995302544
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
We are nearly 700 km from Melbourne...
Venkat G
Mumbai, India185 contributions
Would like advise on how to plan a day trip from Adelaide to Kangaroo island. Can this be done on our own (taking a ferry) without taking one of the tour companies?
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
Hi there,
It is certainly possible to visit the Island for a day but you will need some means of transport unless you are content to do some town walks in Penneshaw (spectacular beach) or fly into Kingscote and then get a transfer 14 km into town.
The Island is huge - same size as Bali, Puerto Rica or Long Island NY - it really depends on the experience you seek. Some folks self drive, some take a coach tour and others a 4wd tour. There is a significant dissatisfaction rate amongst day trippers when compared to overnight and longer stays. To get the best experiences takes time...
bishtkaran
Melbourne, Australia2 contributions
Hi i would like to know where can i stay in kangroo island which is not too expe sive. I am going there with my parents. Any links for tours and accommodation.
Bernadette C
Adelaide, Australia14 contributions
Also sa tourism will help
Jessica S
Boston, MA
Hi - I am planning a visit around Easter of 2015. Will Paul's place be open? How soon do I need to notifiy with an exact time and date?
CraigWickham
Cygnet River, Australia41 contributions
Hi there,
Not sure about Paul's Place and it depends on your group make-up as to the relevance of this attraction. I know they had stopped allowing children in due to an insurance issue. Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park will certainly be open. We have plenty of availability at this stage for our touring programme and can assist with accommodation and travel as well.
Regards,
Craig