The Great Otway National Park, along the stunning Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia is a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Tall forests, ancient rainforests and stunning views: it’s an experience in natural beauty. Waterfalls, cliffs, rocky platforms and dense rainforest, it’s a nature lovers’ paradise. Many visitors combine their trip with a Great Ocean Road tour which often includes a visit to Port Campbell National Park and other iconic spots. But how much does it cost to visit? Let’s break it down so you can have an exhilarating experience without breaking the bank.

Entry Fees

The best thing about the Great Otway National Park is that entry is free. Unlike some national parks that charge an entry fee this park is free to visit. But be aware of any closures, park closures or temporary closures as weather conditions or conservation works may impact some areas. If you’re doing a Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne it’s best to check for closure signs and emergency situation hours in advance so you can have a safe experience.

Accommodation Costs

Whether you’re a budget traveller or luxury seeker the park and surrounding areas have various accommodation options:

• Camping – Parks Victoria manages several camping sites within the park. Prices range from $15 to $50 per night depending on the site and available amenities. Camping in a campsite means you can be surrounded by dense rainforest, lush ferns and native wildlife.
• Caravan Parks & Holiday Parks – Nearby towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne have well equipped caravan and holiday parks, prices start from $40 per night.
• Hotels & Lodges – Mid range options in the surrounding areas range from $120 to $250 per night, many with coastal views and native plants and mini-ecosystems.
• Luxury Stays & Eco Lodges – If you want to splurge premium accommodations like eco-lodges and boutique stays, they start at $300+ per night, with views of coastal cliffs, ocean views and nearby viewing platforms.

Transport Costs

Getting to and around the Great Otway National Park involves different transport options:* Car Rental – Renting a car from Melbourne to drive the Great Ocean Road costs between $50 and $100 per day plus fuel. This way you can drive along coastal tracks, rock platforms and forest floor trails at your own pace. A 3-day Great Ocean Road tour is another great option if you want a guided experience of the area.

• Petrol – Expect to spend $50 to $80 on fuel.
• Tours & Guided Trips – Joining regular tours from Melbourne costs between $100 and $200 per person, often including visits to iconic waterfalls, native plants and historic lighthouses. Many guided tours also include a Great Ocean Road sunset making the experience even more special.

Food & Dining

• Self-Catering – Self catering costs $50-$100 per week, perfect for quiet estuary areas and everyday park life.
• Cafés & Restaurants – Eating out costs $15-$40 per meal, for awesome sea views, coastal views and fresh local produce.

Activities

While many of the park’s attractions are free, some activities will cost:

• Tree Top Walk (Otway Fly Treetop Adventures) – $28 per adult, $25 per child to walk through the rainforest canopy and enjoy the rainforest views.
• Zip-lining at Otway Fly – $120 per person for an adrenaline rush above the mossy trees.
• Wildlife Tours & Kayaking – From $80 per person to see amazing wildlife, platypus and native animals.
• Historic Lighthouse Tours – $20 per adult for an hour to explore a historic lighthouse and learn about the indigenous people and the ecosystem.
• Multi-day hikes – Free but plan for food, accommodation and gear. These hikes take you through rainforest, waterfalls and animal habitats.
• Mountain bike rentals – $40-$80 per day to bike on forest floor trails, coastal cliffs and elevated platforms.

Additional Costs

• Emergency Situations – Be aware of sudden weather changes, like lightning storms which may close the park.
• Mobile Reception – Mobile service is limited in some parts of the park, so download maps and guides hours in advance.
• People with Disabilities – Some trails and attractions are accessible; check for accessibility options before you visit.
• Companion Animals – Pets are not allowed in the park to protect the native animals and the ecosystem.

Total Cost for a 2-day visit

Here’s an estimate for a 2-day visit per person:

• Budget Traveller: $100-$200 (Camping, self-catering, minimal transport costs)
• Mid-Range Traveller: $300-$600 (Hotel, eating out, guided tour)
• Luxury Traveller: $800+ (Luxury accommodation, fine dining, premium activities)Costs vary, but with free entry and many budget options it’s an affordable destination. Check for temporary closures, park closures and emergency situations before you visit.

FAQ

Is there an entrance fee for the Great Otway National Park?

No, it’s free for everyone.

What’s the cheapest way to visit the Great Otway National Park?

Camping, bringing your own food and using your own car or a rental car instead of joining a guided tour. Walking forest floor trails, coastal cliffs and dramatic cliffs are also free.

How much does a guided tour of the Great Otway National Park cost?

Tours from Melbourne generally cost between $100-$200 per person depending on what’s included such as native wildlife habitats, marine life zones and waterfalls. Many people do a 3 day Great Ocean Road tour which includes the park.

Are there any additional costs for activities within the park?

Most hiking trails and waterfalls are free but attractions like the Otway Fly Treetop Walk and wildlife tours require paid tickets.

What’s the best time to visit the Great Otway National Park?

The park is lovely all year round but the best time is spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) for calm weather, beautiful views and safe experiences. Avoid during lightning storms or emergency situations and always check for temporary closure hours ahead of time.