Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. Hotel (11 nights)

Meals

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

Guide

AUSTRALIA LEADERS: All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. In Australia your group leader is often also your driver, taking you from start to finish. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, as well as recommend great local eating venues. They will also introduce you to our local friends along the way. Please be aware they will be juggling many things on your tour and on some days may have less time to spend with you. But they will always be working hard to ensure you and your group have a fantastic time exploring Australia!

Transport

DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA: Australia is a BIG : country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that’s why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates. HOT WEATHER: From October to March it is likely that you will experience temperatures over 35C/95F. These extreme temperatures place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your leader will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping cool and hydrated. Private vehicle , Boat

Others

Sydney - The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour Wentworth Falls - Wentworth Falls Lookout Katoomba - Scenic Skyway Katoomba - Scenic Walkway Katoomba - Three Sisters Walk Katoomba - Echo Point Lookout Katoomba - Scenic Cableway Katoomba - Scenic Railway Sydney – Harbour to Manly return ferry Sydney – Exploration of Manly Beach Tjoritja-West MacDonnell Ranges - Simpsons Gap Guided Aboriginal Cultural Walk Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Creek Walk Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Light Towers by Night Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Kata Tjuta Walpa Gorge Walk Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Rim Walk Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru Sunset Viewing Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole with local Anangu Guide Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru Sunrise Viewing Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Cultural Centre Kuranda - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Kuranda - Kuranda Markets Kuranda - Kuranda Village Visit Port Douglas - Leader-lead Orientation Walk Daintree National Park – Solar Whisper Daintree River Wildlife Cruise Daintree National Park - Jindalba circuit track Daintree National Park - Cape Tribulation Lookout & Beach Walk Port Douglas - Full-day Great Barrier Reef tour Mossman Gorge - Ngadiku Dreamtime walk

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Day 1 Day 1: Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Sydney

Welcome to Sydney, Australia – or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Sydney is now located. Your adventure starts today with a welcome meeting at your hotel at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and fellow travellers for a walkabout tour with an Aboriginal guide in and around The Rocks. Walk through Hicksons Reserve, Campbells Cove, Cumberland Walk and more as your guide teaches you about this area’s history, land and water use and spiritual connection with the First Nations peoples. After your journey into the Dreaming, head out on a leader-led orientation walk to Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, the Botanical Gardens, Hyde Park and the Sydney Tower Eye. Join your group for an included welcome dinner along Darling Harbour and then settle into your hotel for the night.
Day 2 Day 2: Blue Mountains / Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Blue Mountains / Sydney

This morning, head out on a day trip to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains – a land of rugged peaks, soaring waterfalls and dense eucalyptus forest. Stop at Wentworth Falls for grand valley views at Fletchers Lookout. Head to Katoomba and visit Echo Point Lookout, which overlooks the iconic Three Sisters. Walk the Three Sisters track, which takes you up close to the sisters and enjoy the expansive views of the national park below. You might like to stop for lunch at the famous Lookout Restaurant and enjoy the views overlooking Echo Point Escarpment as you eat. Or maybe head into Katoomba town to check out the bohemian shops and find a small café to set up for lunch. This afternoon, you’ll head to Scenic World – a private, family-owned tourism spot boasting sweeping views of the mountains. Hop aboard the steepest railway in the world and ride into Jamison Valley, where you can explore the many boardwalks through the rainforest, looking out for lyrebirds and ancient tree ferns. Ride the cableway, which cruises past the sandstone escarpment and Orphan Rock. See Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters again, but from above, on the fantastic Scenic Skyway, which soars through the mountains. Tonight, return to your accommodation in Darling Harbour.
Day 3 Day 3: Manly / Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Manly / Sydney

This morning after breakfast, you’ll hop on the public ferry from Sydney Harbour to Manly. Departing regularly from Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House before passing Kirribilli House (the Prime Minister’s official residence), Bradleys Head and South Head before arriving at Manly Wharf. From here, you’ll walk to Manly Beach where you can enjoy the cafes and laidback beach lifestyle or join your leader for a coastal walk to the nearby Shelly Beach. This afternoon, take the ferry back to Circular Quay and take a short walk back to your accommodation. Say goodbye to you Leader and any group members who may be finishing their travels here in Sydney. You will be unaccompanied until the Welcome Meeting in Alice Springs tomorrow at 6pm.
Day 4 Day 4: Sydney / Alice Springs
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Sydney / Alice Springs

Your included airport transfer will take you from the hotel to Sydney Airport this morning. Fly to Alice Springs (flight not included), or Mparntwe, in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Alice Springs is now located, is the quintessential laidback Aussie town and your launching pad to reach some of the top spots on the agenda over the next few days. The next part of your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your new group leader and new travel companions. Until then, feel free to check out some of the town’s sights or tuck into an Outback inspired meal at one of the quirky local cafes.
Day 5 Day 5: West Macdonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: West Macdonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon

This morning, you’ll hit the road for Simpsons Gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja). Keep an eye out for rock wallabies as you take part in a guided walk through the important spiritual site. A First Nations guide will share their insights on the local flora and fauna and will tell the story of the great Tjunba (Perentie) totem that protects the gorge and its present importance to the Eastern and Northern Arrernte People. The walk will also take you along the riverbed that marks the boundary between the Eastern and Northern Arrernte tribes. Next, drive along the Stuart and Lasseter Highway and through the colourful semi-desert to Watarrka National Park, home of the majestic Kings Canyon. Your leader will take you along the Kings Creek Walk, following the trail between soaring cliffs and ethereal rock formations. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place! Tonight enjoy an included dinner before visiting the Light Towers - an immersive visual and aural display.
Day 6 Day 6: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara

Spend the morning exploring the rugged landscape of Kings Canyon and enjoy the 3-hour rim walk up and across the famous Kings Canyon plateau, from the sandstone domes of the ’Lost City’ to the oasis of the ’Garden of Eden’. You’ll walk across the red rock cliffs that protrude from the land and take in views of the palm forest below. Then hit the road again for a scenic drive across the red landscape to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Keep your eyes out, there’s chance that you might spot brumbys, camels or wallabies on the drive. First up today, you’ll arrive in Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations. Here, you’ll embark on a walk to a popular lookout to admire the stunning red formations that make up Kata Tjuta – these ochre-coloured shapes are a mesmerising sight. After, you’ll make your way to one of Australia’s most spiritually significant and iconic sites, Uluru. From a prime location, you’ll enjoy the view as the sun sets over the epic sandstone monolith – watching the incredible landscape shift in colour is a sight you won’t soon forget!
Day 7 Day 7: Uluru / Yulara
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Uluru / Yulara

You’ll start the day early in one of the best ways imaginable – watching a spectacular sunrise over Uluru. Embark on a short walk across the rust-coloured landscape to a nearby waterhole and marvel at some of the traditional art sites. Your leader will shed light on the history and nature here and explain how the Anangu people are deeply connected to the lands. After, stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to continue learning about First Nations culture. Head back to Yulara to your hotel and say goodbye to your Leader and any group members who may be finishing their travels today. You will be unaccompanied until the Welcome Meeting in Cairns tomorrow at 6pm.
Day 8 Day 8: Yulara / Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Yulara / Cairns

The free resort airport shuttle will take you from the hotel to Yulara Airport today, then fly to Cairns (flight not included). Cairns is also known as Gimuy, in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Cairns is now located. This is the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the gorgeous Daintree Rainforest. The next part of your adventure officially starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your trip leader and your new fellow travellers. If you arrive in Cairns with time to spare, why not check out the Cairns Botanical Gardens – just five minutes from the CBD, you’ll find yourself in a lush tropical wonderland. Or simply wander the waterfront promenade, popping into any local bars that take your fancy. Later, head out with your group for an included dinner. 
Day 9 Day 9: Kuranda / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Kuranda / Port Douglas

This morning after breakfast, soar over the world’s oldest tropical rainforest via the Skyrail that connects Cairns to the picturesque mountain village of Kuranda. You’ll glide along 7.5 km of cableway and admire the ancient landscape from a truly unique perspective. You’ll have some free time to explore this charming rainforest town and its surroundings – Kuranda is a delightful mix of colourful characters and natural beauty, perched at the top of a rainforest-clad mountain. You might like to check out the famous Kuranda Markets and village shopping or kick back and relax at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes, where outdoor dining is one of the joys of the cooler mountain climate. Drive along the coast to Port Douglas, taking in the ocean views and the cliffs covered in native flora. Tonight, head out on an orientation walk around Port Douglas, stopping at Trinity Bay Lookout Point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf. Then, head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to your accommodation for the evening. 
Day 10 Day 10: Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas

Today, you’ll visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest. When you arrive, head out on a one-hour crocodile and wildlife spotting boat tour along the Daintree River (Julaymba). On the electric Solar Whisper, you’ll hear the sounds of nature around you as you look out for crocs, birdlife, snakes, frogs, crabs and fish. Your experienced guide will be accustomed to the nuances of the river, the rainforest and the mangroves, meaning you’ll be able to find wildlife you wouldn’t be able to find on your own. After you find some feathered friends and long-toothed foes, head north to Cape Tribulation, stopping at Jindalba Boardwalk and a local ice cream factory on the way.  
Day 11 Day 11: Great Barrier Reef / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Great Barrier Reef / Port Douglas

This morning, you’ll head out on a fantastic full-day boat tour from Port Douglas. Explore the stunning Coral Cays on the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing boat guided by marine biologists, who will share their passion and knowledge of the reef as you float along the expansive blue waters. Learn about the fragile environment, enjoy presentations on the reef by experts on board and head to an exclusive site for a spot of wildlife-focused snorkelling (equipment provided). There are vast coral gardens to explore at your own pace – as a protected and shallow area, you’ll see corals, giant clams, turtles and fish in their natural habitat. Enjoy a buffet lunch (including prawns) and afternoon tea on board (including local Daintree produce) while you continue to spot wildlife from the glass-bottomed boat. Tonight, enjoy a night to relax in Port Douglas after a spectacular day on the water.
Day 12 Day 12: Mossman Gorge / Palm Cove / Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Mossman Gorge / Palm Cove / Cairns

This morning, you’ll head to Mossman Gorge for a fascinating Ngadiku Dreamtime walking tour, led by a local Aboriginal guide. Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul) means stories and legends from a long time ago in the local Kuku Yalanji language and you’ll learn about these stories on a guided walk along private, gentle tracks, visiting culturally significant sites, traditional bark shelters and cool rainforest streams. Witness a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse and ward off bad spirits and then stroll through the lush rainforest, learning about traditional plant use, bush food sources and the connection to this unique tropical environment. After, enjoy a traditional bush tea and damper (a loaf or cake of flour and water that’s baked in wood ashes). Drive south to Palm Cove, stopping along the way to explore the scenic beachside town where you can grab some lunch. You can end your trip here or carry on to Cairns, where your trip will come to an end at approximately 4pm.

12 days tour

Best Of Australia

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip Best Of Australia

Day 1: Sydney

Day 2: Blue Mountains / Sydney

Day 3: Manly / Sydney

Day 4: Sydney / Alice Springs

Day 5: West Macdonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon

Day 6: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara

Day 7: Uluru / Yulara

Day 8: Yulara / Cairns

Day 9: Kuranda / Port Douglas

Day 10: Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas

Day 11: Great Barrier Reef / Port Douglas

Day 12: Mossman Gorge / Palm Cove / Cairns

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