What does the tour involve?
At Bicheno Penguin Tours, our friendly team will check you in before a short bus ride takes you to our private penguin rookery.
Established over 30 years ago by rehabilitating farmland into penguin-friendly habitat, the rookery is a special place where you can witness the unique behaviours of little penguins in their natural environment. Your guide will accompany you on a walk through the rookery, sharing interesting facts about penguins and their habitat while also discussing the steps we can take to protect and improve the lives of these wonderful birds. The tour involves walking approximately 500 meters over 50 minutes, allowing plenty of time to observe the penguins.
What time do tours start?
Bicheno Penguin Tours timings change seasonally. In Winter, the tour can begin between 5-7pm while in Summer, it can between 7-9pm.
Please check the start time when you book your tickets.
What is the ticket price?
Summer Season (September – January):
Adults = $76.00
Children = $32.00
(Children under 4 are free)
Winter Season (February – August):
Adults = $56.00
Children = $27.00
(Children under 4 are free)
Where do Bicheno Penguin tours depart?
Bicheno Penguin Tours is located at 1/70 Burgess St Bicheno. In the centre of town, across the road from the IGA.
Do you offer group bookings?
Yes! Please email office@bichenopenguintours to enquire about group bookings.
Is there parking available at the Bicheno Penguin Tour shop?
Yes, we have plenty of free parking available outside of the shop.
Do I need to book in advance?
We recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment as our tours tend to book out several weeks in advance.
Can I be picked up from my accommodation?
No, all guests must meet at our shop, Bicheno Penguin Tours is located at 1/70 Burgess St Bicheno.
Can children go on the tours?
People of all ages are welcome to participate in our tours. Although, Children are required to be accompanied by an adult and remain quiet and seated (at times) during the tour and we do not have a quiet space available.
Are there toilets available?
We have toilets at our reception (where you check in) which we encourage you to use before the tour begins. There are no toilets available at the rookery.
Can I take photos and videos during the tours?
Photography is permitted with Mobile Phone or Camera (no flash).
Do you accommodate for guests with mobility / physical needs?
Our tour requires guests to walk 500 metres over an hour. Seating is available at various points during our tour.
Wheelchairs can be accommodated on our boardwalks on a case by case basis (with discussion about bus transport vs private transport at the individual customer level).
We do everything we can to accommodate guests with specific needs.
I have heard that there has been a decrease in penguin numbers, are you currently running tours?
Yes, we are currently running tours. We had a decrease in numbers in the summer but we are pleased to see penguins returning and thriving. So we are conducting tours as normal.
Do you accept Concession Cards?
Unfortunately, we do not accept Concession Cards. All tickets are priced at our standard rates.
Do you accept Companion Cards?
We appreciate the importance of Companion Cards, but unfortunately, we are unable to accept them at this time. All guests will need to purchase a standard ticket.
Do you accept Seniors Cards?
Unfortunately, we do not accept Seniors Cards. All tickets are priced at our standard rates.
How do I buy a gift voucher for Bicheno Penguin Tours?
Simply click ‘Book Now’ on our website, choose the number of people you’d like to purchase for, and then select “Buy Gift Card.” On the next page, you’ll see the booking form where you can enter your details or the recipient’s details if you’re buying the gift card for someone else.
Please note that ticket prices vary between peak season (September 1 – January 31) and off season (February 1 – August 31).
How do I redeem a gift voucher for Bicheno Penguin Tours?
Choose the number of participants, then select your preferred date. Click “Book Now.” Enter your contact details, then apply your voucher by entering the voucher code in the “Add Promo Code/Voucher” section.
How do I join the waitlist?
Click ‘Book Now’ on our website, select the number of people, and choose “Join the Waiting List.” On the next page, complete the booking form with your details — no payment or payment details are required. You will be notified by email if availability opens.