26 Day Grand Aussie Explorer

Summary

"From cosmopolitan cities to the rugged outback; and the golden beaches to the tropical rainforests, you'll be seeing all this and more over this 26 day trip. Combine these fabulous sights from Sydney to Darwin with fellow travellers who will become life-long friends and you’ve got an amazing experience ahead of you!"

Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney to Central Coast

We start in Australia's largest city and head northwards. We'll make a quick stopover in Kempsey (home of the 'Akubra' hat), before arriving at the untouched beaches of the Central Coast. Take in the shimmering Pacific Ocean with a surfing lesson, or just kick back and enjoy the natural scenery.

Meals: D

Day 2: Central Coast to Byron Bay

We hit the beach early for another surf lesson, before heading up the coast. We'll check out Coffs Harbour, the Banana Capital of Australia, before reaching Byron Bay, the easternmost point on the mainland. World renowned for its gorgeous beaches and eclectic lifestyle, it's a popular resort town.

Meals: B

Day 3: Byron Bay

A full day in Bryon leaves you with a veritable cavalcade of options: try out beach fishing, sea kayaking or diving, perhaps? Maybe you'd prefer to experience the arts and crafts of the local area, or take a walk to Cape Byron. Then again, the beach could be calling your name...

Meals: B

Day 4: Byron Bay to Gold Coast

We start the day with a gourmet brunch before we make the short trip to the Gold Coast, one of Australia's most popular destinations. On the way we stop at the 'Natural Arch', a spectacular waterfall and an extraordinarily beautiful site. Then get a taste of the best nightlife this side of the equator, as we hit the Gold Coast.

Meals: B, D

Day 5: Gold Coast

We've got a free day – give the debit card a workout at the nonstop shopping options, thrill your inner adrenalin junkie with a visit to the theme parks, or make some new friends with a visit to Australia Zoo. Whatever you choose, you're bound to enjoy a slice of true Australian hospitality.

Meals: B

Day 6: Gold Coast to Fraser Island

We stop off in Brisbane today, capital of the state of Queensland. Enjoy a walking tour of the city, indulge in a spot of shopping or just relax over a coffee. Then we pass the Glasshouse mountains before catching the ferry across to Fraser Island, where our stop for the night is nestled amongst the eucalyptus trees.

Meals: B, D

Day 7: Fraser Island - Great Sandy National Park

A World Heritage site and the world's largest sand island, Fraser Island continues to amaze visitors with its natural beauty. Travel through sand dunes hundreds of metres high, explore rainforests teeming with wildlife. Then join our half-day 4-wheel drive tour that stops at pristine inland lakes ideal for swimming.

Meals: B

Day 8: Fraser Island to Kroombit Park

We return to the mainland today, heading for Central Queensland and a taste of 'Outback hospitality' on a 10,000 acre cattle station. Expect to see kangaroos bounding over wide open spaces, with views that stretch on for miles. Perhaps try your luck on the mechanical bull? Then this evening we'll gather round the campfire and swap stories.

Meals: B, D

Day 9: Kroombit to Emu Park

Try your hand at some optional activities this morning: goat mustering, quad bike riding or trap shooting, before we take off from the farm. Pay a visit to Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia, before we arrive in the coastal resort town of Emu Park. Swim in the pool, walk along the dazzling beach and prepare yourself for a 'reef & beef' dinner tonight.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 10: Emu Park to The Whitsundays

Today we're heading for some of the most beautiful islands found anywhere in the world, the Whitsundays. We drive to the lively resort town of Airlie Beach, before boarding the yacht we'll call home for the next two nights. Prepare to be impressed by the spectacular scenery on show.

Meals: B, D

Day 11: The Whitsunday Islands

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have arrived in Paradise. Sail across azure waters, discovering remote beaches and colourful coral reefs. Soak up the sun, swim in the tropical ocean, take a turn at the helm and indulge in some stargazing by night.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 12: The Whitsundays to Cairns

Taking our leave from these idyllic islands, we set sail for dry land and Airlie Beach. Then we'll head north, travelling through Townsville to our final destination of Cairns. Get a feel for the local nightlife with dinner at a local restaurant (own expense) and a visit to the night markets.

Meals: B

Day 13: Cairns

An exhilarating combination of reef meets rainforest, Cairns offers fun for all kinds of visitors. Today you've got plenty of optional activities to choose from, including diving on the Great Barrier Reef, white water rafting, skydiving, quad biking or even hot air ballooning! Tropical North Queensland is your oyster – tell us all about it over dinner (own expense).

Meals: B

Day 14: Cairns

Get a feel for the rainforest today, as we visit the nearby village of Kuranda – discover the community's arts and crafts. We'll all visit Koala Gardens and get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife, including an optional koala cuddle. Then you can take the optional Skyrail back to Cairns, which glides metres above the rainforest canopy.

Meals: B

Day 15: Cairns to Alice Springs

This morning we fly from our tropical surrounds to the outback climate of Alice Springs. After checking into our accommodation, you're free to spend the day exploring at your own pace. We'll meet up at sunset to feed the friendly Rock Wallabies near our lodge. Note: internal domestic flight not included in tour price.

Meals: B

Day 16: Alice Springs to Ayers Rock

We commence our voyage by heading south to the Outback Camel Farm, for an optional camel ride. Then we head to our Yulara accommodation, before meeting fellow travellers from the nearby airport. Get a feel for Uluru (the traditional owners' name for Ayers Rock) in the afternoon, with a guided tour of the rock's base and the ancient paintings that abound.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 17: Ayers Rock to Kings Canyon

We start early today, in order to catch the sunrise at Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). This dramatic collection of 36 domes is a world-renowned site of natural beauty, with plenty of flora and fauna to discover. Then we'll pay a visit to Kings Creek Station, a working cattle farm in the middle of the Red Centre, before arriving at our destination of Kings Canyon Lodge. Cool off with a swim before dinner perhaps?

Meals: B, L, D

Day 18: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Bring your walking shoes today. We go for a hike through Kings Canyon, visiting towering sandstone cliffs, idyllic watering holes and lush greenery on the valley floor. It's a true highlight of the trip, bringing the natural world to bear in all its magnificence. After lunch back at Kings Canyon Resort, we head over rolling sand dunes towards 'the Alice'.

Meals: B, L

Day 19: Alice Springs

Get a taste of the bright morning sky with an optional hot air balloon ride today – the views are spectacular! Take in the MacDonnell Ranges, including the towering Simpsons Gap, and the foreboding Standley Chasm (it's over 5 metres wide). We'll return to Alice for lunch and some free time: check your emails, go quad biking, even a spot of shopping. Tonight we'll feed rock wallabies just before dinner.

Meals: B, D

Day 20: Alice Springs to Renner Springs

Today we'll make tracks northwards, with an afternoon visit to the rock outcropping known as the Devil's Marbles a real highlight. This isolated geological formation is a spectacular sight and we'll also get an insight into its meaning to the indigenous people. Then we'll stop in at Tennant Creek, before making our way to Renner Springs where we'll get a taste of outback hospitality.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 21: Renner Springs to Katherine Manyallaluk

First stop today is the Daly Waters pub, a local beacon of culture and an important historical point: Qantas used this point to refuel planes in the early days of aviation. We'll then make our way to the oasis of Mataranka, where a swim in the cool blue waters is very much a possibility. Then we finish up in Katherine, where tonight the indigenous people will give us an insight into the journey from the 'dreamtime'.

Meals: B, L, D)

Day 22: Katherine To Gunlom (Waterfall Creek)

We start early today, first making our way through Katherine Gorge by canoe (or you can upgrade to a cruise). Expect towering cliffs surrounding lush vegetation, while we sweep across the azure waters. Then it's on to Edith Falls for another chance to get in the water, and a great place to stop for lunch. We then travel further north, arriving at Gunlom in the evening.

Meals: B, D

Day 23: Gunlom To Jabiru

Today we visit the World Heritage site of Kakadu National Park, one of the true highlights of any Australian trip. Take in the ancient paintings of Nourlangie Rock, then get a view from on high at the nearby lookout. We'll then visit the Bowali Visitor's Centre for a look at the bigger picture, before turning in for the night.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 24: Kakadu

Get a feel for Kakadu, where wetlands meets sub-tropical wildlife. There's an optional scenic flight in the morning before we travel to Ubirr, an important site for the Indigenous people. Take in the sunset over an inland version of paradise, before trying local delicacies such as crocodile or kangaroo.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 25: Kakadu To Mt Bundy Station

We take part in a relaxed Guluyambi cruise along the East Alligator River – expect breathtaking scenery and an introduction to the indigenous culture and mythology of the region. We'll stop in Arnhem Land and be treated to a demonstration of traditional hunting and gathering, before heading back along the river. After lunch we'll make a stop at the Adelaide River Inn, before arriving at our homestead for the night – go for an optional horse ride!

Meals: B, D

Day 26: Mt Bundy Station To Darwin Via Litchfield

First stop on our voyage today is Litchfield National Park, an irresistible combination of lofty waterfalls, cool rainforests and peaceful swimming holes. We'll spend some time here, drinking in the oasis, before heading up to Darwin, the biggest city in the Top End. A charming combination of cosmopolitan ambience and tropical colony, it's well worth exploring as our trip together has ended.

Meals: B, L

Further Information

Sydney Departures

Wake Up!, 509 Pitt St, Sydney at 6.30 am, Travelodge Hotel Sydney, 27-33 Wentworth Ave, Sydney at 6.45 am .

What's Included

25 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 16 Dinners, 7 Nights Hotel, 12 Nights Cabins, 2 Nights Live-aboard Sailing Ship in The Whitsundays, 2 Nights Camping, 2 Nights Camping in Permanent Tents, Return Ferry Crossing to Fraser Island, Modern Air-Conditioned Coach, Springbrook National Park, Guided City Tour of Brisbane, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Experience, National Park Fees, Sunrise at Kata Tjuta, Sunset at Uluru, Guided Tour of Kings Canyon, Canoeing in Katherine Gorge, Crocodile Spotting Cruise on Yellow Water River, Tjapukai by Night Dinner & Show, Escorted Services of a Fully Trained Trip Leader and Driver .

Live-Aboard Sailing

For this trip, we ask that you pack an overnight bag. Remaining luggage will be stored on the coach. .

What to Bring

The following clothing list is suggested based on our experience. The basic rule however is "pack light"., Smart Casual Evening Wear , 1 Pair Sandals/Thongs, 2 Pairs of Jeans , Pair of Walking Shoes , 2 Sweaters/Jumpers , 1 Warm Jacket , 4 Shirts/T-Shirts , Rainproof Jacket , 2 Pairs of Shorts / Skirts , Swimming Costume , Washing Powder , Basic Medical Kit (inc. Aspirin, Plasters...) , Towel , Beach Towel , Toiletries , Hat, Insect Repellent, Sunscreen , Personal Audio Player, Camera, Sunglasses .