Solo Travel in Tasmania

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Food & Wine GatG, Nature GatG, Wildlife GatG

If you are planning a trip to Tasmania, below is our Tasmania travel guide including the best places to visit in Tasmania, where to stay in Tasmania, travelling in Tasmania, where to go in Tasmania as a solo, and which tour company to use. Find out how to get from the airports and what to do in Tasmania.

All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article for your solo Tasmania trip.

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Tasmania.

N.b. By booking through this page for your trips to Tasmania, you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping. 

Contents

• Solo Travel in Tasmania
• About Tasmania
• Accommodation in Tasmania
• Tasmania Tours
• How Long Do I Need?
• Travelling Around Tasmania
• From the Airport
• How To Get To Tasmania
• Conscious Travel in Tasmania
• FAQs
• Map of Tasmania
• Plan a Trip To Tasmania

Lavender fields in Tasmania

Solo Travel in Tasmania

If you're wondering “Is Tasmania Safe?” This island has the country’s friendliest locals and solo travel in Tasmania is incredibly safe for women to travel around Tasmania even at night. That's why we've given it 5 out of 5 stars. There isn’t a specific travelling trail and it doesn’t have the party scene that you find on the mainland Oz so it’s ideal for the quieter traveller.

For those backpacking Tasmania, Hobart has a number of hostels making it easy to meet other travelling here alone. The hostels can help arrange any Tasmania backpacking tours that you want to do, or just arrange day trips Tasmania style if you're only on the island for a short while. If you are planning on getting around Tasmania by renting a car, it is safe to camp alone within one of the territory’s National Parks.

Tasmania Australia has a great road network so it’s perfect for a self drive but watch out for the nocturnal wildlife. As on the mainland make sure to log any walks in the visitors books at national parks if walking alone. Discover all the best things to do in Tasmania below. 

The East Coast of Tassie (photo @ Petrina Wong)

About Tasmania

Tasmania is one of the states of Australia and is believed to have once been part of the mainland. Today it is an island 150 miles south of the continent and being Australia’s largest island we feel it deserves its very own destination page.

‘Tassie’ as known to the locals is a World Heritage Area and nearly half of the island is full of national parks and reserves with ancient rainforest and untouched landscapes. The island has five unique regions and the South-West is home to the world’s only temperate rainforest eco system.

If you’re into partying then this isn’t really the place for you but if it’s the great outdoors, convict history and wildlife that you’re into, Tassie is the place to come. Many miss it off their list but we think it’s worth a visit (and where else can you see a Tasmanian devil?)

If you only do one thing when you visit Tasmania, make sure it’s a visit to Port Arthur (a must do in Tasmania and one of the Tasmania attractions for history lovers). This old convict settlement holds the key to life back in the nineteenth-century. Its hidden past lays within haunted ruins and desolate buildings of the Port Arthur historic site. 

To be scared silly on your Tasmania travels, join the nightly ghost tour (but it is not for the faint hearted). Visit the historical site of the nearby Coal Mines for more convict history and free entry to the ruins.

* Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Tasmania

A Tasmanian Devil

Tasmanian Devil Park

Travel to Tasmania for the Tasmanian Devil Park to see the native animal unique to Tassie. You may be surprised to see these critters up close as the Tasmania devil actually isn’t that devil-like, and was named so because of their blood curdling screams and ability to eat through bones. They are more like small pigs than devils. You can see more of these little devils feeding at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Brighton.

Places To Visit in Hobart

Entry onto the island is either from Devonport, Launceston or Hobart. Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and sits in the south. Walk around Hobart waterfront with Mount Wellington in view as you sample the restaurants and bars of the capital or get arty at the modern art museum, one of the Hobart attractions. Each Saturday, Hobart holds a market at Salamanca Place where you can buy arts, crafts and handmade jewellery from all over the island. If you're here on a weekend, it's one of the things to do in Hobart. Other things to do in Hobart include seeing the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. 

A 10 minute drive from Hobart (Take buses 446, 447 or 449), is The Cascades Female Factory. This former workhouse tells the tales of Australia’s convict women who were forced to work here.

Port Arthur (photo @ Catharina Stam)

Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city in the north of the island with a seaport and vibrant cafes. Things to do in Launceston include visiting the nearby Cataract Gorge (one of the Launceston tourist attractions), a canyon landscape just a fifteen minute walk away via the boardwalk. This area of wilderness has great walking trails, panoramic views and is well worth a visit, and is close enough to the city to explore. Join one of the Launceston excursions to Cataract Gorge, Cradle Mountain or Wineglass Bay. 

Devonport

North of Launceston is the arrival point of Devonport and Nabowla, home to the islands' acres of lavender farms. If you’re in need of an inspirational boost, this is one of the things to see in Tasmania for a calming display of purple hues. It's also one of the free things to do in Tasmania but make sure to time your visit right as they aren't year round.

Devonport may not be as popular as Hobart but it’s worth a stay for a night or two especially if it’s your first port of call onto the island. Art lovers can see Tasmanian crafts and artwork at the Devonport Regional Gallery, or sail on a 20th century steamer (on a simulation), at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre. Other things to do in Devonport include experiencing the sea for real on a 2.5 hour sailing trip on The Julie Burgess.

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain

Tasmania is a place for reflection and rejuvenation. Cradle Mountain National Park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It's located in the north and is one of the island's (or possibly even Australia’s) most beautiful areas. There are a variety of walks around spectacular scenery, past rivers or around the top of the Cradle’s summit. Plus log cabins set within the wilderness for some pampering and relaxation in green rolling landscapes, lavender fields and mountains.

Dove Lake is nearby and also lies in St Clair National Park. This gorgeous dark blue lake has a 6km walking track that takes you around the lake and offers views of Cradle Mountain. Take your walking boots for this one as the 3 hour circuit has some steep areas. 

Wineglass Bay (photo @ Catharina Stam)

Wineglass Bay

Tasmania has one of the most photographed beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay, aptly named after its curved shape. The bay lies in the coastal wilderness of Freycinet National Park on the East coast peninsula and is the best place in Tasmania to visit as it is so picturesque. Admire from the lookout point or walk the five hour circuit around Mount Mayson. Coles Bay is a great town to base yourself in to see Freycinet Park. 

Sailing boats in Hobart

History, Adventure & Nature

There is plenty for those who like adventure too; try white-water rafting, surfing, abseiling, caving or off-road touring at Huon Valley, South of Hobart. For a slower pace of life, cruise along the Gordon river or relax at the thermal pool at Hastings Cave, the largest tourism cave in Oz. For wildlife spotters, visit the historical village of Stanley to see the island’s penguins and seals.

For mountain peaks, gorges and rivers on your Tasmania travels, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is one for the fitness solo with spectacular gorges and rugged wilderness. There is also an easy walk where you can stroll along the Franklin Nature Trail, a 30 minute walk through its mossy rainforest that takes you past the banks of the Franklin River. The park is an hour’s drive from Strahan and is named after the two rivers that run within the park.

One of the islands’ oldest national parks and a Tasmania must see is Mount Field National Park with constant changing views and some of the tallest eucalyptus forests in the world. It markets itself as being ‘the park for all seasons,’ from the autumn colours on the hillsides, to the snowy slopes on Mount Mawson. It has a large network of walking trails and you can also stay overnight. Tasman National Park is another Tasmania tourist attraction. 

For a coastal village where you can meet friendly locals, Binalong Bay is near St Helens on the north east coast of Tasmania. From here you can easily reach the Bay of Fires, a conservation area of coastal wilderness where vibrant orange-coloured granite builders meet the blue sea. You can hike here, kayak, surf or dive, or just enjoy some seafood at one of the restaurants after relaxing on a white sand beach. This area is perfect for pitching your tent and seeing the sun as it rises at Humbug Point reserve.

For one of the unique things to do in Tasmania, hop aboard a steam train on the West Coast Wilderness Railway and journey through an ancient rainforest hearing stories of the locals that live along the routes. You also have the chance to take a walk through the rainforest and pan for gold.

Tasmanian Cuisine

One of the things to do in Tasmania is enjoy its fresh produce. You cannot beat the food and wine here (even the food on the Tasmania ferry crossing is divine). The champagne rivals that of French regions and fresh oysters can be sampled at the island’s oyster farm – try Tasmanian Blue Mussels at Freycinet Marine Farm. You won’t need to go without your five a day here as fruit sellers sell freshly picked fruit at the roadsides, just remember to carry some change.

The Tamar Valley Wine region in the north of the island has a long history of wine production. Thanks to its cool climate it produces Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir amongst others, and it’s even been classed ‘one of the top 10 wine routes in the world’ by Essential Travel magazine. It’s an ideal place to visit a winery or two.

Islands in Tasmania

Tasmania even has its own islands, Maria Island, a small island which can be reached by plane or a 40 minute ferry ride and Flinders Island with pink granite cliffs and green pastures (also accessible by ferry or plane).

If you are on a self drive, the roadhouses will remind you that you’re still in Oz but Tasmania really does have a different feel from the rest of the mainland so don’t be surprised if all the gorgeous scenery and fresh air inspires you to stay longer.

Cradle Mountain (photo @ Petrina Wong)

Accommodation in Tasmania

There are so many options for Tasmania accommodation whether you prefer apartments, country retreats, motels, or cosy cabin accommodation Tasmania. Booking.com has an extensive choice of Tasmania accommodation for all budgets including hostels. Airbnb Tasmania has rooms in local’s homes and many of them offer the entire home or flat to stay in. Save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link.

For the best places to stay in Tasmania for women travelling alone, all of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodation in Tasmania, click on the link below. 

* Check prices, dates and availability for all Tasmania accommodation

Balmoral On York, Launceston

In a good location near the shops and waterfront, you won’t be short of places to eat here. This hotel Tasmania offers great customer service and each room has a comfy bed with your own sofa to chill out after a day of sightseeing in Launceston. Choose from a deluxe double room or a premier double room with a city view. 

• Prices from £112 / A$ 209 for a deluxe double room
• Check prices, dates and availability: Balmoral On York
  

Peppers Seaport Hotel

If you're feeling flush, treat yourself to one of the top places to stay in Tasmania. Peppers Seaport Hotel is one of the 4.5-star stylish hotels in Tasmania on the waterfront of Launceston. The hotel has views of the river or the city and is only 20 minutes from Cataract Gorge (they also have a Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge too). I personally stayed here and loved it! Choose from a standard double or twin studio with a city or river view, a suite with a city or river view or a luxury suite with a marina view.

• Prices start from £123 / A$ 229 as a standard double studio with a city view
• Check prices, dates and availability: Peppers Seaport Hotel

Lake St. Clair Lodge, Cradle Mountain 

In one of the stunning locations in Tasmania, this Cradle Mountain accommodation near the lake at Cradle Mountain is cosy and warm with friendly, helpful staff. Meet others whilst sat at the fireplace in the Lodge Bar. Choose from a double or twin wilderness room or lakeside room, a studio lakeside with a spa bath or a suite with views.

• Prices from £193 / A$ 359 for a double or twin wilderness room
• Check prices, dates and availability: Lake St. Clair Lodge

The Tasman Peninsula (photo @ Catharina Stam)

Tasmania Tours

G Adventures

With Australia being such a sociable country, you’ll never be short of company travelling Australia alone. But if you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers and offers tours around Tasmania and Australia. 

Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company. 

Intrepid Tasmania 

If you’re looking for some company on all or part of your tour of Tasmania, consider taking a Tasmania tour. Intrepid Travel is a responsible tour company and over 50% of people using their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use Tasmania hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation and offer a 6 day Taste of Tasmania tour including hiking at Cradle mountain. Read our Intrepid Travel Reviews

Tasmanian Expeditions – Tasmanian Expeditions are a Tasmania travel company who offer small group active tours Tasmania such as Tasmania hiking tours and rafting tours.

World Expeditions – If you're looking for Tasmania adventure holidays, World Expeditions offers Tasmania wilderness tours. Join a group of other women on the Women’s Overland Track including the Three Capes Track, one of the finest walks in Australia over 6 days.

Experience Tasmania –  Tasmania bus tours offering Tasmania tours from Hobart to the popular Tasmania tourist attractions. They can be a bit touristy but they are a good way to meet others and see Tasmania on half and full day trips.

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and Tasmanian day tours. Choose from a Port Arthur ghost tour, a World Heritage cruise on Gordon River or a Bruny Island day trip from Hobart. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are several day tours in Tasmania to book as a solo and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check all tours and prices here

How long do I need? 

How many days to visit Tasmania? For a Tasmania itinerary, realistically you'll need at least five days to a week. Fly into Hobart then depart from Devonport to make your way from the south to the north.

(photo @ Hanna Tiensuu)

Travelling Around Tasmania

For Tasmania travel, travelling around Tasmania by car is the best way to travel around Tasmania. If you're wondering how long does it take to drive around Tasmania? The island isn’t that small so driving in Tasmania only takes approximately seven hours to drive from East to West. Driving around Tasmania is easy with road signs and good infrastructure but because of nocturnal animals, it's safer not to drive at night. Make sure you carry your driving licence with you.

How to get around Tasmania without a car – If you’re unsure how to travel Tasmania independently, the bus network is great for Tasmania solo travel. You can travel from Devonport to Cradle Mountain in 6.5 hours, and Port Arthur Historic Site to Coles Bay will take you 4.5 hours by bus. The timetables can change for Tasmania public transport depending on which season you visit. Find out more here

* To hire a car for your Tasmania trip we recommend pre-booking car rental with Avis for your road trips so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

From the Airport

• Hobart – A bus shuttle departs outside the terminal after every flight. If you’re travelling to Tasmania outside of office hours it’s better to pre-arrange a transfer for the 15 minute drive to the city.
• Devonport – NorthWest Shuttles offer on demand services from the airport and ferry terminal to the city which is 7 miles from the airport.
• Launceston – The airport shuttle meets all daily flights for the 9 mile journey.

* Feel more confident traveling in Tasmania with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa, a reliable and safe service for solo females.

Where can I go from here?

• Sydney 2 hrs
• New Zealand 3 hrs
• Melbourne 1 hr

How To Get To Tasmania

How to get to Tasmania from Sydney – There aren’t any ferries from Sydney to Tasmania but you can either fly from Sydney to Hobart, or into Launceston or Devonport, depending on where you want to start your Tasmania trip.

How To Travel to Tasmania From Melbourne – To reach Tasmania, you can either fly from Melbourne to Devonport, Launceston or Hobart or take The Spirit of Tasmania, an overnight journey which sails from Melbourne to Devonport. You can take a hire car with you on this 11 hour trip but make sure you book early. Check the ferry times and pre-book before you travel from Tasmania.

Conscious Travel in Tasmania

Social Impact Projects

Hamlet Hobart Café – Hamlet is an adorable café filled with fun vibes and a mission! Their mission is to provide work experience for Tasmanians and empower people in their local community. Enjoy a tasty dish, order their scrumptious jams online, or donate a meal to someone in need! 

Stay Eco in Tasmania

Hobart Hideaway Pods 

These eco-friendly pods were built with a focus on low-impact design. The two pods offer gorgeous views of the lush Tasmanian landscape and are only located 20 minutes from Hobart. The accommodation provides the perfect getaway for the eco-conscious solo traveler.

Additionally, to being equipped with luxurious (who knew they could be luxurious!) composting toilets and a self-sufficient water supply, every night that you stay at Hobart Hideaway Pods means 1$ is donated to Wildcare Tasmania!

• Prices from £91 / AUS $170 p/n for a deluxe double/twin with ocean view
• Check prices, dates and availability: Hobart Hideaway Pods

Forest Walks Lodge 

This hotel oozes charm and comfortability. Surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, located in a World Heritage Area, and managed by a husband-and-wife team who are passionate about the local scenery and food, Forest Walks Lodge offers an extraordinary stay filled with fresh, local Tasmanian produce (the dishes are prepared by Sean, the husband!) and plenty of activities. Go on walks, attend environmental workshops, and enjoy the splendid scenery. This is definitely a memorable stay. 

• Prices from £106 / AUS $198 p/n for a deluxe queen room
• Check prices, dates and availability: Forest Walks Lodge

Issues affecting vulnerable Girls in Tasmania

• Migrant children and aboriginal children’s rights go often unrecognized. They are often the targets of discrimination, physical and sexual abuse, as well as lack of access to education and health care. Read more… 
  
• –  Australia still struggles with establishing true gender equality in areas such as pay and female political empowerment. Furthermore, 1 in 3 women are said to have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15, according to the Australian Human Rights Commission. Read more… 

FAQs

• Can I drink the water? Of course!
• Is tipping expected? No.
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
• Any ATMs? Yes.
• Which side of the road do they drive? When you're travelling Tasmania, make sure to drive on the left-hand side. 
• Good for vegetarians? Yes if you like fish. Hobart has more for vegetarians.
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.
• Is it safe to travel to Tasmania? Yes, it's completely safe. The only thing you need to watch out for is driving at night with the nocturnal animals. 

Tasmania Map

Plan a Trip To Tasmania

If you are ready to solo travel Tasmania here are some useful links to help you to plan your Tasmania trips including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Facts

Budget – £50 a day (if you are exploring Tasmania on a budget and staying in hostels)

Capital – Hobart Tasmania

Population – 512,000

Official Language of Tasmania – English

Local Currency – Australian Dollar

Do I Need a Visa?

Vaccinations Required

Flying Time to Tasmania – 22 hrs 

Useful Info

Airlines to Tasmania

Best Time To Travel To Tasmania – The best time to visit Tasmania Australia is December to February

What Plugs Do I Need?

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tasmania

Events and Festivals in Tasmania

Living Cost in Tasmania

Local Customs & Etiquette

Driving Distances

Did you know? More than 20% of Tasmania is World Heritage listed.

Stay Eco

Freycinet Eco Retreat

Rainbow Retreat Eco Cabins

Volunteering

Save the Tasmania Devil

Mind Body & Soul

Stay At a Yoga Retreat at Thousand Lakes Lodge

Stay At a Meditation Retreat

Stay At a Health Retreat

Spa Treatments at Hidden Cove Day Spa

Weather in Tasmania – Below is the annual weather for Tasmania from January to December