G’day, I’m Damien from EcoTreasures! For over 15 years, I’ve been guiding groups through the breathtaking Blue Mountains, and every tour is a new adventure. The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park is a natural wonder, but it’s also a place under real pressure—and that’s why exploring it thoughtfully, in a small group and on your own terms, matters more than ever.
The Magic—and the Challenge—of the Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are home to over 400 animal species and nearly 1,000 plant species, many found nowhere else on Earth. UNESCO calls it a “place of extraordinary beauty and rich Aboriginal heritage.” But this beauty is fragile. Invasive weeds are a huge threat to native plants and animals, with teams working year-round to control them and protect endangered species.
And then there’s climate change. The 2019–20 bushfires devastated 80% of the World Heritage Area, killing millions of native animals and leaving our bushland a green strip surrounded by burnt land. Scientists say these extreme fires, droughts, and floods are only getting worse unless we act fast to reduce emissions. The Blue Mountains are particularly vulnerable, sandwiched between growing urban areas and exposed to some of Australia’s highest bushfire risks.
New Pressures: Airport Expansion and the Dam Wall
It’s not just nature fighting for survival—development is adding new pressures. The Western Sydney Airport, being built nearby, brings concerns about air quality, noise, and impacts on the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Conservation groups warn that increased pollution and habitat loss could threaten both wildlife and the health of local communities.
Even more immediate is the proposal to raise the Warragamba Dam wall. If approved, it would flood up to 4,700 hectares of national park and 65 kilometres of wild rivers, destroying habitats for at least 48 threatened species—including the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater—and hundreds of Indigenous cultural sites. Once these habitats are gone, there’s no getting them back.
Why Group, Custom Tours Matter
So, what can we do? For me, the answer is to tread lightly and travel with purpose. Eco group tours mean less impact on the environment and more meaningful experiences for you. With Ecotreasures, every tour is tailored to the group’s interests and abilities—whether you want to chase waterfalls, spot rare birds, learn about local culture, or just soak up the views.
We’ve celebrated birthdays on clifftops, helped school groups log wildlife sightings for conservation, and guided families on gentle strolls or epic hikes. With so many walks to choose from, we can always find a route that suits your group size and what you’re keen for—while avoiding overcrowded tracks and giving nature the respect it deserves.
Conservation in Action
We’re not just visitors here—we’re part of the story. On our tours, we use reusable gear, stick to marked trails, and share the latest conservation stories. I’ll tell you about the Wollemi pine, a “dinosaur tree” rediscovered in a secret Blue Mountains valley, and how local teams are fighting to save it. Or how a group of kids helped track a glossy black cockatoo, contributing to real conservation science1.
Let’s Make Your Blue Mountains Adventure Count
The Blue Mountains are facing real challenges, but there’s still so much to discover and protect. By choosing a small group, custom tour, you’re helping keep this World Heritage treasure wild and wonderful for future generations.
Ready for your own adventure? After 15 years, I’ve got stories, secret spots, and conservation tales to share. Let’s explore the Blue Mountains your way—and make a difference while we’re at it.
See you on the trail!
— Damien, EcoTreasures