Frequently Asked Questions – Sydney Private Tours
Private Touring Frequently Asked Questions
Led by a guide with private touring experience dating back to 2009, we launched Escape Scenes in 2019. Every question comes straight to us — every answer here is based on real experience on the road. Whether you're planning a Blue Mountains day trip or something further afield, get in touch if you don't find what you're looking for below.
Vehicles & on-board comfort
What's included in a private day tour package from Sydney?
An Escape Scenes private day tour includes exclusive use of a premium private vehicle, a personal driver-guide, door-to-door hotel or terminal transfers, and a fully customised itinerary. You'll have individual climate control and leather seating throughout the day — just your group, no strangers, no shared stops.
Are there other vehicles available, or just the Mercedes?
Our flagship vehicle is a premium luxury vehicle, used for the vast majority of tours. On the occasion we need to call on a trusted premium partner during peak periods, we guarantee they'll match the same five-star standard of safety, space and comfort. We never use standard minibuses or generic transport vans.
How much luggage can the vehicle hold?
Our premium luxury vehicle has a spacious, secure cargo area that easily fits four large suitcases plus carry-on bags. Your luggage stays locked in the vehicle for the duration of the tour, which makes it a great option for pre-flight or post-cruise sightseeing.
Are these tours suitable for passengers with limited mobility?
Yes. A big advantage of a private tour is door-to-door service — we can drive right up to scenic viewpoints and landmarks, cutting down walking distances and avoiding unnecessary stairs.
Itineraries & flexibility
Can a private driver provide a customised Sydney day trip itinerary?
Yes, absolutely. We tailor the day to your exact interests, with time for premium restaurants, hidden scenic lookouts and the landmarks you actually want to see.
What happens if the weather is bad?
One of the biggest benefits of a private tour is flexibility. If it rains, we adjust the itinerary on the day — pivoting to indoor attractions, a longer lunch, or alternative sights so your day still holds up. We've even switched from a low-visibility day in the mountains to covering Sydney on the fly.
Will we see kangaroos or native wildlife on the tour?
Kangaroos aren't reliably spotted in the wild across Blue Mountains National Park, but we can arrange a stop at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, where you can hand-feed kangaroos and get up close to native animals.
Are the private tours suitable for children?
Absolutely. Since you're not sharing the vehicle with strangers, we can build the day around family-friendly stops and adjust the pace for younger travellers. Child seats are available on request.
Rates, booking & logistics
How much does a private tour in Sydney or the Blue Mountains cost?
Pricing is tiered by group size rather than charged per person individually — a couple travelling together pays a different rate to a full group of seven, but everyone within that tier shares one cost rather than paying separately. Sydney sightseeing tours run as a half day or full day, while Blue Mountains tours typically run 6–9 hours depending on the itinerary and stops chosen. Get in touch with your group size and dates for a tailored quote.
Where do we meet for the tour?
We provide a complete door-to-door service — we meet you in the lobby of your Sydney hotel, at the cruise terminal arrivals area, or at the airport, holding a sign with your name.
Are private tours available departing directly from Sydney Airport?
Yes, tours can start straight from Sydney Airport — ideal if you've landed on an early flight and can't check into your hotel until the afternoon. We securely stow your luggage in the vehicle while you get straight into sightseeing.
Is tipping expected?
Tipping isn't mandatory in Australia and is entirely at your discretion. Honestly, we're just grateful you found us and booked in the first place — but if you feel we've provided outstanding, five-star service, a gratuity is always appreciated.
Do you only operate in Sydney and the Blue Mountains?
No — while Sydney and the Blue Mountains are our most popular tours, we also run private tours to Canberra, the Hunter Valley, and the Southern Highlands, with extended itineraries available further afield across New South Wales.
Still Have Questions?
Ask via the contact form below.