EXPLORING AUSTRALIA 19 DAYS FROM $5,279 US Details below or
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Welcome to Australia, a country where a casual, outdoor lifestyle intersects with cosmopolitan cities and scenic beauty. It offers you so much—unique wildlife, brilliant colors in the tropics, an Outback adventure, sumptuous restaurants, lively nightlife, fun shopping, and much more—and on this tour, you’ll have a chance to experience it all!
Discover some of Australia’s unique wildlife, including the famed Tasmanian Devil, a carnivorous marsupial with the appearance of a small, stocky dog; the iconic kangaroo, which number roughly 40 million in Australia; koala; crocodile; and Little Penguins, the world’s smallest penguin, which you’ll see emerge from the sea and march across the beach to their sand dune burrows during the Penguin Parade in Melbourne.
Learn about the way of life in the remote Outback with your visit to Alice Springs and a trip highlight—a journey on the Ghan Train. This overnight train journey will offer a fascinating perspective of the Outback as you travel from Alice Springs to Adelaide. Of course, this vacation also offers you the opportunity to see Australia’s most famous sights, including the remarkable and colorful Great Barrier Reef and Uluru (Ayers Rock). Also discover its most popular cities, including Melbourne, Cairns, Adelaide, Hobart, and Sydney.
If you want to explore Australia and experience the way of life here, this vacation is for you. You’re sure to return with lots of photos, memories, and stories to share with friends and family back home.
Day 1 Arrive in Cairns, Australia G’day and welcome to Australia! Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner at your hotel. (Dinner)
Day 2 Cairns. Great Barrier Reef Excursion
Board a fast catamaran for a CRUISE to Green Island, one of the many tropical islands on Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Here you can choose to SNORKEL, take a GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT TOUR, or walk through the island’s cool rainforest. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. You might consider upgrading to a full-day excursion to the Outer Barrier Reef. In the evening, consider a unique experience at the famous Flames of the Forest, where you enjoy tropical dining in an actual rainforest and authentic Aboriginal culture through storytelling and music (operates seasonally). Or, consider a sunset cruise followed by a delicious dinner at a waterfront restaurant. (Breakfast)
Day 3 Cairns–Darwin
This morning, enjoy a special visit to CAIRNS TROPICAL ZOO for your chance to meet Australia’s native animals. You’ll also enjoy breakfast in the park, a talk by a wildlife keeper, and will have the opportunity to have your picture taken with a koala! Afterward, you may choose to join our optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. See magnificent scenery, lush rainforests, and twisting waterfalls from the comfort of a restored, historic mountain train. For the return journey you may choose to take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Or, take a tour to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park—a fascinating portrayal of Aboriginal culture, dance, and folklore. Then, fly to the top end of Australia to Darwin, famous for its strategic importance during WWII. (Breakfast)
Day 4 Darwin–Kakadu National Park
Today, see giant termite nests on the way to KAKADU NATIONAL PARK. Explore parts of nearly 7,300 square miles of unspoiled waterways with a rich heritage of Aboriginal culture and stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre to learn about Kakadu’s habitats. CRUISE waterways where you may view crocodiles, and walk ancient trails to see Aboriginal rock petroglyphs. An optional light-aircraft flight over the park should not be missed. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Note:
During the wet season (December through April) it can be difficult to see crocodiles in the wild.
Day 5 Kakadu National Park–Darwin
Depart your hotel this morning and stop at WINDOWS ON THE WETLANDS VISITOR CENTRE, an interactive display of Kakadu fauna. Return to Darwin for sightseeing. See the elegant colonial architecture of the city’s historic buildings that survived Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Visit the splendid BOTANIC GARDENS and beautiful East Point, an area rich in WWII memorabilia. Also visit the ART GALLERY to view fine collections of Aboriginal art. (Breakfast)
Day 6 Darwin–Alice Springs–Ayers Rock
During a brief stop in Alice Springs, enjoy a visit to the SCHOOL OF THE AIR to learn how education services are provided to children living in the vast Outback. Then, visit the OLD TELEGRAPH STATION to discover how the locals live in this remote area and to learn the history of how the early settlers developed communication. On to Anzac Hill, a tribute to the war heroes of Australia and New Zealand. Afterward, fly to Ayers Rock. Travel to a popular lookout to enjoy views of the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological splendor of some 30 brilliant monoliths. There is time to take photos before returning for a TOUR around the base of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and to “Sunset Strip” for a drink, canapés, and to witness the changing colors of the rock. (Breakfast)
Day 7 Ayers Rock–Alice Springs
For an unforgettable experience, rise early for an optional camel ride to watch the sunrise at Uluru. Then, fly to Alice Springs and visit the ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE to appreciate how medical service are provided to those in remote regions. The afternoon is at leisure. You may want to visit the Desert Park to learn more about the flora and fauna of the Australian desert. Tonight, enjoy a unique Aussie experience—an OUTBACK BARBECUE that features a meal of typical campfire fare, fascinating tales of the Outback, and Aboriginal folklore. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 8 Alice Springs–Ghan Train
This morning, enjoy free time to relax. Later, a highlight of your vacation begins as you board the GHAN TRAIN for an overnight journey that offers a fascinating perspective of the Outback. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9 Ghan Train–Adelaide
Arrive in Adelaide for a city tour along the wide tree-lined streets and well-manicured gardens. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (Breakfast)
Day 10 Adelaide
The day is at leisure. You may choose a full-day trip to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. (Breakfast)
Day 11 Adelaide–Barossa Valley–Melbourne
Today, drive to the BAROSSA VALLEY with its Bavarian villages, baroque Italianate chateaux, and stunning vineyard scenery. Breathe in the beauty of the Adelaide Hills in the leafy greenness of the quaint yet charming villages. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch and sample some of Australia’s premium wines at a LOCAL WINERY. Later this afternoon, fly to Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city. (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 12 Melbourne
Today’s tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful FITZROY GARDENS and then drive past the lush Royal Botanic Gardens. You’ll soon discover the differing architectural influences of this city as you see the Victorian Arts Centre and other buildings of significance. For a unique dining experience, join an optional outing on board a historic tramcar restaurant as it winds its way through the streets of Melbourne. Later this afternoon, drive to Phillip Island to see a PENGUIN PARADE from an exclusive viewing platform. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 13 Melbourne
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s passionate food and wine scene—or walk along Chapel and Brunswick Streets, famous for great shopping. Take a trip outside of town to sample award-winning wines in the Yarra Valley or drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road to see the “Twelve Apostles.” (Breakfast)
Day 14 Melbourne–Hobart
Fly to Hobart, Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian Devil. (Breakfast)
Day 15 Hobart. Excursion to Port Arthur
Today’s tour of the scenic Tasman Peninsula features the blowhole, the Devil’s Kitchen, and the Tasman Arch coastal formations. Visit PORT ARTHUR, where the first convicts arrived in the 1830s. A guided tour of the Penal Settlement shows you the ruins of the 4-story penitentiary and the model prison—grim reminders of Australia’s days as a penal colony. Also included is a short stop at a nearby WILDLIFE SANCTUARY to see the famous Tasmanian Devil, the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial. (Breakfast)
Day 16 Hobart–Sydney
Today, fly to Sydney, the largest city in Australia. The afternoon is at leisure for you to discover this exciting and beautiful city on your own. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for optional activities. (Breakfast)
Day 17 Sydney
Today, explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Travel to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair in the city’s BOTANICAL GARDENS for a great photo opportunity of the harbor, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Then, take a guided tour of the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a visit to one of the country’s leading OPAL COMPANIES to discover how the beautiful gems are mined. You will also take a CRUISE on Sydney Harbour that highlights this bustling waterway and will tour the world-famous BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB and enjoy a lifesaving demonstration! Along the way you will also see some of the city’s original suburbs and the historic Rocks area, home to Sydney’s original convicts. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (Breakfast)
Day 18 Sydney
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join our optional excursions to the Blue Mountains or to Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s leading wine-growing regions. You can even climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge! Your Tour Director will help you make the most of this exciting city. Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fantastic views of the highlights of Sydney. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 19 Sydney
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
INCLUDED FEATURES
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef cruise with choice of activities; visit Cairns Tropical Zoo, welcome dinner
Darwin
Orientation tour; visit to the botanic gardens and art gallery
Kakadu National Park
Sightseeing tour; Yellow Waters Cruise; Windows on the Wetlands Visitor Centre
Ayers Rock
Sightseeing tour around the base of the rock and a sunset toast
Alice Springs
Sightseeing tour; visit the School of Air, the Old Telegraph Station, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service; Outback barbecue
Alice Springs-Adelaide
Travel in Gold Service on the legendary Ghan train
Melbourne
Sightseeing tour; visit Fitzroy Gardens; witness the Penguin Parade
Hobart
Excursion to Port Arthur; visit a wildlife sanctuary
Sydney
Sightseeing tour; Sydney Harbour cruise; visit the Opera House, botanical gardens, Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club, and an opal company; farewell dinner
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
MEALS
American breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 6 dinners, including a welcome dinner in Cairns, an Outback barbecue in Alice Springs, and a special farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour
SUPERIOR HOTELS - (D) Deluxe (SF) Superior First-Class (F) First-Class
CAIRNS Novotel CAIRNS Oasis (F), DARWIN Crowne Plaza (SF), KAKADU NATIONAL PARK Holiday Inn Gagudju Crocodile (F), AYERS ROCK Desert Gardens Hotel (F), ALICE SPRINGS Lasseters Hotel (F), GREAT SOUTHERN RAILWAY The Ghan train, ADELAIDE Majestic Roof Garden Hotel (F), MELBOURNE The Swanston Hotel, Grand Mercure (MF), HOBART Wrest Point Hotel (SF), SYDNEY The Grace (SF)
Optional Excursions
Important Note:
the following list of optional excursions are examples only for this vacation as they are the excursions that are being offered for this vacation in the current travel year. These optional excursions might or might not be offered next year, as well as new optional excursions might be offered. Information about what optional excursions will be offered for your vacation will be available later this year into next year. If no example excursions are listed, please check back later.
Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency.
CITY: Adelaide
Kangaroo Island Full day tour
Explore one of the world's last unspoiled habitats.
Approximate value: AUD $250 per person
CITY: Alice Springs
Alice Springs Desert Park
Stop, relax and share in the stories of the desert as they unfold before your eyes. Take a walk and discover the wonder of arid Australia.
Approximate value: AUD $42 per person
CITY: Ayers Rock
Camel To Sunrise
Ride your camel through the sand dunes before enjoying a local breakfast watching sunrise on Uluru.
Approximate value: AUD $119 per person
Ayers Rock and Olgas by Helicopter (30 Min)
By Helicopter, your bird's eye view will take in Uluru and the magnificent red desert, all the way to the striking rock formations of Kata Tjuta.
Approximate value: AUD $250 per person
CITY: Cairns
Explore the Outer Great Barrier Reef
The complete reef and island experience awaits with this exciting cruise.
Approximate value: AUD $148 per person
Crocodile Explorer
Calm Water Cruise and Crocodile Farm Tour
Approximate value: AUD $62 per person
Kuranda Scenic Rail, Skyrail Cableway and Tjapukai Aboriginal Park
A visit to the rainforest village of Kuranda, Tjapukai Aboriginal Centre and a gondola ride above the rainforest complete a special day.
Approximate value: AUD $202 per person
CITY: Darwin
Kakadu National Park Scenic Flight (60 min)
Your opportunity to view the raw beauty of Kakadu National Park.
Approximate value: AUD $225 per person
CITY: Melbourne
Experience Melbourne aboard the Tramcar Restaurant
Dine aboard the converted 1927 tram that has become The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant as it cruises the scenic streets of Melbourne.
Approximate value: AUD $82.5 per person
CITY: Sydney
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
The Bridge Climb is the ultimate Sydney experience.
Approximate value: AUD $220 per person
Blue Mountains Explorer
For wilderness and wildlife, the magnificent world heritage listed Blue Mountains is a must see for any visitor to Sydney, and all just 90 minutes from the centre of the city.
Approximate value: AUD $188 per person
See Sydney from above with dinner
Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the city, the harbor and the Sydney Opera House over dinner at Sydney's highest revolving restaurant.
Approximate value: AUD $75 per person
The Rocks Pub Tour
Get a taste of Sydney's history, in one of its most interesting and vivacious precinct. Try the local brew and visit some of the city's most atmospheric pubs on this tour through the Rocks' winding lanes and cobblestone alleys.
Approximate value: AUD $44 per person
DEPARTURE DATES January - April
September - December
PRICES From approx $5,279 US
per person double occupancy
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Australia Tours available on request To book or for more
information please complete the INQUIRY FORM
Welcome to Australia, a country where a casual, outdoor lifestyle intersects with cosmopolitan cities and scenic beauty. It offers you so much—unique wildlife, brilliant colors in the tropics, an Outback adventure, sumptuous restaurants, lively nightlife, fun shopping, and much more—and on this tour, you’ll have a chance to experience it all!
