In the mood for a change of scenery? Discover the captivating Cactus Country, the Australian desert paradise that brings the beauty of Mexico all the way to Victoria. With heaps of towering and eye-catching species of cacti at every corner, you’ll have a hard time picking just one photo for your IG post! Besides the photo ops, there are also some fun things to try and enjoy with the entire fam.
Have we piqued your interest? Here’s everything you need to know about Cactus Country:
- What is it?
- How do I get there?
- Why is it Insta-worthy?
- What walking trail should I take?
- Are there any places to eat?
- What are the best things to do there?
- What else is good to know?
What is it?
Why fly all the way to Mexico when you can head to the Murray Valley for stunning desert vistas. Credit: vera.abba
You may have seen it on your friend’s Instagram stories or on TV (Better Homes and Gardens, anyone?), but Cactus Country is an incredible desert oasis that has to be seen to be believed. As the largest cactus garden in the country, it’s home to more than 4,000 species of plants from Africa, North, and South America. Throughout its decades-long history, the massive 12-acre farm has become a social media staple because of its picturesque landscapes.
How do I get there?
With fun activities and special treats like cactus ice cream, even the kids will enjoy a trip to the farm.
Cactus Country’s address is 4986 Murray Valley Hwy, Strathmerton, Victoria 3641.
To reach Australia’s desert oasis from Melbourne, there are two options:
By car
- Take the Hume Highway M31 and exit at Shepparton. Then, drive along the Goulburn Valley Freeway/Highway until you reach the cactus farm. The trip will take you just 3 hours.
By public transport
- Board the train from Southern Cross station. You can take either one of the trains, two of which will go to Shepparton, and the other two will go to Seymour. With both stations, catch a bus the rest of the way to Strathmerton. From the bus stop in Strathmerton, there is about a 30-minute walk to Cactus Country.
Klook tip: Only one train departs in the morning, so make sure to catch it to make the most out of your day at the cactus farm! Check the V/Line website for the latest schedule.
The farm is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am – 5pm for most of the year except on holidays, like Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Good Friday.
Why is it Insta-worthy?
The sprawling farm boasts not just cacti but also succulents. Credit: cactus country
Ever thought there wasn’t much to see in the desert? Let Cactus Country change your mind. The garden boasts thousands of different species of vibrant green cacti that look incredible next to the beige sandy walking trails. The plants come in different shapes and sizes. You’ll spot cacti with bright red and yellow flowers, funky shapes, and even some that are 15 metres tall!
Speaking of scenic destinations, we’ve put together a list of the best camping spots in Victoria, perfect for admiring and relaxing in nature.
What walking trail should I take?
With over 4,000 species of eye-catching cacti, there are heaps of photo spots to choose from. Credit: aliciaflegphotography
Don’t know where to start? Don’t fret—choosing from one of Cactus Country’s eight trails can be overwhelming, but we’ve done the work, so you’ll know what to expect from each one:
- Green Trail - This trail is also called the “Cactus Reef” because it’s where all the cacti that look like corals are found. Most plants here are succulents and have groovy shapes. Make sure to spot the Teddy Bear Cristate!
- Pink Trail - Aka “The Andes Walk,” this is where you’ll find cacti that grow in cold climates (yes, they’re not just in the deserts). You’ll see plants from Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador!
- Blue Trail - You’ll be welcomed by two towering Cereus plants when you start “The Wedding Walk.” In this trail, you’ll see vibrant flowers, interesting hairy plants, and cacti that are around 10 metres tall.
- White Trail - This walk, also called “Theo’s Collection,” features 14 fascinating species of cacti that range from massive Cereus to smaller types like the Fat Trichocereus Bruchii.
- Orange Trail - You’ll understand why it’s also called “The Valley of the Giants” when you see a massive cactus at every turn while exploring this trail.
- Yellow Trail - Enjoy a glimpse of Mexico on your visit. Here, you’ll see unique trees like the Pony Tail, Agave plants, cacti that look like hedgehogs, and so much more. “Little Mexico” is one of the walks that can’t be missed.
- Red Trail - When you think of cacti, you’ll probably think of cacti with arms that curve upward called Saguaro. You’ll find that and more at the “Arizona Trail” where there are spikes and agaves galore.
- Purple Trail - Welcome to “The Land of Succulents,” where you can admire 14 different kinds of plants in various shapes and colours. As you stroll along this trail, you’ll see various plants from Africa.
Want to unwind after all the walking? De-stress at one of Victoria’s finest hot springs for a spa day you deserve.
Are there any places to eat?
Cool off with a refreshing scoop of handmade cactus ice cream. Credit: cactus country
After exploring the 12-acre farm, you deserve a break! Thankfully, Cactus Country has a bar and restaurant which features classic Mexican drinks and dishes like nachos with toppings of your choice (we’re partial to chilli con carne), frozen margaritas, Mexican guava-flavoured soda, and more.
Of course, no visit to the garden is complete without trying out its famous cactus ice cream made from the fruit of Cereus plants. There’s also a cactus cake made from Opuntia!
What are the best things to do there?
Explore the cactus farm’s eight different trails and discover the wacky shapes of the plants. Credit: bmonks10
Make sure to bring your camera because the picture-perfect views at the farm are sure to inspire. Strike a pose by the tall Saguaro cactus and watch your likes on Insta go up by the minute. Bringing the kids with you? They’ll enjoy the Spotto Game, where they’ll be tasked to find different species of plants along the trails. Don’t forget to stop by the shop so you can bring home your very own cactus and start your own garden.
If you can’t get enough of fun and exciting activities, we’ve made a handy list of more of the best things to do in Victoria.
What else is good to know?
Bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun! Credits: @nomii.tobiasson and @svens.photography
Cactus Country is a place for everyone. It’s wheelchair accessible as well, so you can enjoy going through all the trails. But, check the weather beforehand because some trails may be difficult to navigate in wet conditions.
You’re also welcome to bring along your dogs and enjoy the farm with the entire fam.
The best times to visit the farm is from October to November when most cacti are in bloom.
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