Sydney Botanical Gardens and Harbour Walk

Discover natural beauty, surprising stories, and breathtaking harbour views on this on this private guided walking tour of Sydney’s Royal Botanical Gardens.

This immersive tour blends botany, history, agriculture and gastronomy into an engaging experience for all the senses. 

From pristine wilderness to Sydney’s first farm to a world-class public garden, this Botanic Gardens tour tells the story of the city itself.

We begin at the striking Bara sculpture, where you’ll learn how Indigenous Australians lived sustainably from land and sea for thousands of years.

As we wander through the 30-hectare gardens, you’ll encounter a mix of unique Australian plants and fascinating imports, each with its own story — from early scientific discovery to global exploration. 

 Along the way, we explore:

• early encounters between Europeans and Australia’s unique wildlife
• the hungry origins of Australia's first farm
• caves once used by Indigenous people for shelter
• and the impressive sandstone seawall built by convicts

Reaching Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, we pause to take in one of Sydney’s most iconic harbour views.

In the First Encounters Garden, discover the contrast between Indigenous food plants and those introduced by early settlers, and how each shaped life in the colony.

We finish with the option to enjoy a drink or snack at the Farm Cove Eatery, right in the heart of the gardens — just a short walk from Circular Quay.

Contact me today to book your private Botanical Gardens walk!

Duration: about 3 hours. Moderate difficulty, around 10,000 steps.

Cost: $350 Australian per group, food and drinks are not included.

Maximum group size: 20 people.

Season: Available during the Australian summer.

Meeting point: At the Bara sculpture (or near Circular Quay by arrangement).

End point: Circular Quay ferry wharves.

"I had a wonderful time on Philip's tour of the Sydney Botanical Gardens. Philip's love for Sydney is clear, and he shares his knowledge in an educational and entertaining way. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Sydney or even locals looking to see the gardens in a new light." Erika Tuktens, Sydney

"Philip, a native of Sydney, was a highly informative, knowledgeable and humorous guide and when next visiting Sydney, I'd highly recommend Philip's tour." Richard Denieffe, Kilkenny, Ireland