25 Day Grand Aussie Tour

overview

Travel from Sydney to Darwin via Australia’s Red Centre  - that’s a lot of territory to cover with heaps of awesome sights thrown in! You’ll come away with memories that will last a lifetime.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Sydney to Myall Lakes

Our journey commences bright and early when we depart Sydney via the Harbour Bridge. We’ll stop off to take one last look at the Harbour City – an awesome Kodak moment to start off the tour before returning to the Pacific Highway heading north. Crossing the mighty Hawkesbury River, we travel past Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park before heading into the well known Hunter Valley wine region. Here we’ll undertake our own hands-on research as to why this region is so well known and enjoy a picnic
lunch. We then head north again to Myall Lakes. Here our Eco-Resort is situated on the lake front, in a pristine natural environment. On arrival we make the most of this location and hit the water – in kayaks! We’ll have half an hour to explore the area before returning to watch the sunset and enjoy a BBQ dinner by the pool. This is an awesome way to spend your first night on tour! After dinner you can kick back and get to know fellow passengers by a campfire under the stars.

Overnight: Myall Shores Resort (Cabins), Myall Lakes
Meals - Dinner

Day 2 - Myall Lakes to Byron Bay

Our journey commences bright and early, when we depart this pristine region and make our way northwards along the Pacific Highway. With the Great Dividing Range to our west and the Pacific Ocean to the east, you’ll travel through some picturesque rural regions today – be sure to keep your eye out for the “Big Banana”! We travel through the Northern Rivers towns of Grafton and Ballina before reaching the buzzing, resort town of Byron Bay, Australia’s most easterly township. Renowned for its surfing beaches, beautiful rainforests and eclectic lifestyle, Byron Bay oozes a relaxed vibe that “hooks” many a traveller. Some have been known to visit and never leave. After checking into our cabins, we head off to explore this vibrant town to see what the fuss is all about!

Overnight: Glen Villa Resort (Cabins), Byron Bay
Meals - Breakfast

Day 3 - Byron Bay

A full day ahead to enjoy what Byron Bay has to offer. Famous for its great beaches and counter culture, we have plenty of optional activities here to keep us busy. Try a surfing lesson*, go diving* sea kayaking* or just chill out on the beach. The galleries and craft shops are also sure to fascinate, as are the many cafes and alternate cuisines that are available here. A great scenic walk is to the lighthouse at Cape Byron where the views are breathtaking. It’s even possible that you may see some dolphins or whales as they pass by. No matter if you do too much or too little here, you are certain to enjoy it.

Overnight: Glen Villa Resort (Cabins), Byron Bay
Meals: NA

Day 4 - Byron Bay to the Gold Coast

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before we depart Byron Bay. Our short journey takes us up the highway to Surfers Paradise and the “Gold Coast”. This region is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations with its great climate, famous surf beaches, meter maids, and awesome laidback lifestyle. The restaurants and nightlife here are pumping every night of the week, and you are free to explore them this evening!! Take a short walk to Cavill and Orchid Avenues where you can try some different pubs and clubs.

Overnight: Paradise Resort, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
Meals: NA

Day 5 - Gold Coast to Fraser Island

A short drive this morning to Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane. We will make a stop at Kangaroo Point Cliffs Lookout for the best view of this river city, then crossing the Brisbane River via the Story Bridge we take some time out in the city centre. Hit the Queen Street Mall (last shopping fix for a few 1000 kms!!), relax in a nearby coffee shop or just take a walk around this relaxed city. Heading further north along the Bruce Highway we pass the world famous Glasshouse Mountains, the old gold mining town of Gympie and the heritage township of Maryborough before arriving at Hervey Bay. Here we board our ferry to cross the Great Sandy Straight, bound for Fraser Island. Perfectly located at Kingfisher Bay, the Wilderness Lodge accommodation is set in a eucalypt forest at Kingfisher Bay Resort, on the western side of the island.

Overnight: Kingfisher Bay Resort – Wilderness Lodges (Share Facilities), Fraser Island
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6 - Fraser Island – Great Sandy National Park

Fraser Island – Great Sandy National Park is World Heritage Listed and is the world’s largest sand island. It was home to the Badtjala Aboriginal people for some 5000 years and was known as ”K’gari”. This special place supports an extraordinarily diverse rainforest, wildflower heath, mangroves, birds and a large population of dingoes. The island has dunes that reach 240 metres in height and about 40 dune lakes – half the number in the world. A great way to see this magnificent national park is on an optional 4-wheel drive tour* along the unspoilt surf beaches and to pristine inland freshwater lakes that are ideal for swimming. Whale watching* is also an option usually between the months of July and November where you can see hump back whales on their annual migration. At the end of the day, why not enjoy a cocktail at the jetty bar, while watching the sun set over the bay.

Overnight: Kingfisher Bay Resort – Wilderness Lodges (Share Facilities), Fraser Island
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Fraser Island to Rockhampton

This morning we say our last goodbyes to Fraser Island, board our ferry and return to the mainland. Continuing our journey northwards through sugar cane country, we make a stop for lunch then arrive into the beef capital of Queensland - Rockhampton (Rocky). This major regional town is situated on the banks of the Fitzroy River and lies on the Tropic of Capricorn. Tonight we explore the local “Rocky” nightlife – if we’re lucky we’ll check out a real life Rodeo! Giddy up!!! Hope you’ve packed your Akubra!

Overnight: Sundowner Rockhampton, Rockhampton
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8 - Rockhampton to The Whitsundays

It’s a big day today as we head off for the gorgeous Whitsundays where you’re in for a real treat. We travel on to Mackay - commercial centre of Queensland’s huge sugar industry. Here we'll stop for lunch at one of the beaches - your first taste of North Queensland. It’s then on to Airlie Beach, the heart of the thriving Whitsundays. The town overlooks the beautiful Whitsunday Passage and the 74 nearby tropical islands. If there’s a heaven on earth, it’s definitely in the Whitsundays so prepare to enjoy! And the best way to experience this gorgeous region is onboard a boat – your home for the next 2 nights! You’ll be watching the sunset over the water tonight from the heart of paradise. (For any landlubbers, there is an option to stay in Airlie Beach*)

Overnight: Liveaboard Sailing - Multi-share (bunk) accommodation, Whitsundays
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

NB: Landlubbers Option Days 8 & 9*
If you’re certain you can’t stay onboard for 2 nights, you do have the option to stay on the mainland and enjoy Airlie Beach at Club Crocodile Resort. You’ll have the chance to experience a day cruise to Whitehaven Beach onboard Camira – otherwise you can hang with locals at the gorgeous man-made lagoon and make the most of this idyllic location. (Inc. 2xB,1xL, 1xD)

Day 9 - The Whitsunday Islands

Wake up in one of the many sheltered coves that make up the Whitsundays. You’ll set sail for golden sandy beaches, snorkel over island coral reefs and soak up the sun in this tropical wonderland. A visit to the famous Whitehaven Beach and Blue Pearl Bay will also hopefully be an option – depending on the weather. For the budding sailors, help set the sails and have a turn on the helm as we explore the islands. By night you’ll star gaze the Milky Way and forget about your life back home. You’re in heaven!

Overnight: Liveaboard Sailing - Multi-share (bunk) accommodation
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 - The Whitsundays – Airlie Beach

This morning we set sail again for another idyllic location before sadly returning to the mainland and the resort town of Airlie Beach. Here our Landlubber Friends will rejoin us and we’ll get to experience a night out in “Airlie” – famous for it’s laid back lifestyle, colourful characters and toad racing!!

Overnight: Club Crocodile Resort Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11 - Airlie Beach – Undara Outback Experience

It’s a big day today as we leave the sand behind us and head for the outback and Savannah country! We’ll have an early start from Airlie Beach and make our way north through the small town of Bowen (home of the new Baz Luhrmann Movie, Australia) and onto Townsville for a quick lunch break. Then it’s back on the road, heading inland over the Great Dividing Range to the Great Inland Way and north to our outback experience like nothing you’ve seen before! Undara is famous throughout the world for Lava Tubes – plus its unique outback style accommodation, gorgeous bush setting and abundance of native wildlife. As the sunsets you’ll get to experience a Wildlife at Sunset Tour with your Savannah Guide**. Enjoy a drink as the sun sets over the ranges and spot many of the local native animals at dusk. Then after dinner kick back by the campfire – feel free to join in the entertainment. This will be a highlight of your 25 days!

Overnight: Undara Outback Experience, Savannah Country ** Seasonal – subject to sunset times
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Undara Outback Experience - Cairns

This morning you have a few options – take one of the Lava Tube Tours* and learn more about this intriguing natural formation, check out the many nearby bush walks or simply chill out in the pool. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the local hospitality before we make our way back to the coast, and the North Queensland city of Cairns. Cairns is located on the edge of two extraordinary natural environments, the reef and the rainforest, and is the perfect base for a load of activities to suit everyone. Go wild and crazy with optional activities ranging from adventurous white water rafting* on the Tully River or Tandem Skydiving*, to a day trip* to the World Heritage listed Daintree Region.

Overnight: Hides Resort (Hotel), Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Cairns - Optional Great Barrier Reef

Today you also have the option to discover the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef, aboard a maxi-catamaran*. The day includes lunch, all snorkelling equipment, optional introductory* and certified Scuba Diving* plus the thrill of sailing on a thoroughbred machine. Once anchored at the reef, slip over the side and explore this underwater paradise at your own pace.
You’ll be amazed by wonders of the reef that’s brimming with life! Tonight after your day touring, you'll meet the local Tjapukai people and see how they showcase their culture. In an evening tailormade especially for Connections Adventures, you will be taken on a journey that commences with the effects of European settlement on the Tjapukai people in the History Theatre. You will then be joined by a member of the Tjapukai dance troupe as they engage you in a discussion on the evening’s highlight event– Tjapukai by Night where Fire explosions, spectacular special effects, music, dance and giant spirits come to life to take you on a dreamtime journey. The evening finishes with a sumptuous buffet dinner and performance by the world famous Tjapukai dancers. This is a pretty special and unique way to spend your last night on tour.

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14 - Cairns

Today we head off to explore the tropical rainforest and Kuranda via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. The Skyrail Experience, spanning 7.5kms travels over heritage listed, pristine rainforest, allowing you to explore the wonders of an ancient tropical rainforest and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth. Gliding just metres above the rainforest canopy in comfortable six-person gondola cabins, the Skyrail journey immerses you in an intimate rainforest experience where you’ll see, hear, smell and become part of the tropical rainforest environment. You’ll then arrive in Kuranda where you can explore the local arts and crafts of this rainforest village.

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 15 - Cairns to Alice Springs

Today you make your own way to Alice Springs - the heart of Australia's Red Centre - where you'll meet your 'Territory' crew. The day is yours free to explore at your own pace. (Note: internal domestic flight ot included in tour price)

Overnight: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Lodge), Alice Springs
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16 - Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Campground

Your outback adventure begins in Alice Springs as we travel south crossing some of the oldest river systems in the world on our way to Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park, home of mighty Uluru (Ayers Rock). We will break our journey at Mt Ebenezer Roadhouse before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort where we are joined by any additional passengers and then head to our private campsite for lunch. The afternoon is spent exploring Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), before travelling to Uluru (Ayers Rock) to take in a spectacular sunset. Let’s enjoy some wine and nibbles here as we relax and witness the fascinating change of colours as an outback sun sets on Australia’s largest sandstone monolith. You’ll feel a million miles away from the Tropical North Queensland Coast of yesterday.**

Overnight: Permanent Private Campsite (twin share – share facilities), Ayers Rock
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 17 - Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park to Kings Canyon

It’s an early start to the day this morning to enjoy sunrise inside the National Park. A chance to explore Uluru and its many wonders. You’ll have the option to enjoy this spectacular region in many ways. For the energetic - climb to the top of the rock; others may wish to explore Uluru by walking around the base; or perhaps just sit back and take in the wonder of this magnificent formation.** You’ll also have some time to visit the Cultural Centre before heading off to our next destination. This time we’re bound for Kings Creek Station – an operating cattle/camel station in the heart of the outback and the gateway to Watarrka National Park. Before commencing our exploration of the park tomorrow, you can settle into our tranquil, private campsite and possibly enjoy some of the optional activities available if time permits. This is a truly Aussie experience where you will enjoy a traditional camp oven dinner and also have the option to sleep under a blanket of stars.

Overnight: Kings Creek Station Permanent Private Campsite (twin share – share facilities), Kings Creek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 18 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

You’ll need your sturdy walking shoes today! After entering Watarrka National Park and arriving at Kings Canyon we begin ascending the track that takes us above massive sandstone cliffs overlooking the valley floor. The spectacular rim walk takes us to the heart of Kings Canyon and descending to the humble beginning of Kings Creek. Here and along the walk we can see some unique and ancient vegetation, tranquil water holes and some amazing examples of nature’s own geological handiwork - sure to be a highlight of your visit to Australia’s Red Centre. We return to Kings Creek Station for lunch before travelling through sand dune country as we head back to Alice Springs.

Overnight: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Quad share), Alice Springs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 19 - Alice Springs

Today you’re free to explore Alice Springs at your own pace. Maybe make a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park where native animals can be seen in their natural habitats, plus you’ll learn about Aboriginal arts, crafts, food and weaponry; or maybe make a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor and the School of the Air – two iconic attractions in the outback. Otherwise, if “R&R” is more your style, kick back by the resort pool at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges and grab some rest. This afternoon make sure you visit the local wallabies that come down to feed at the resort before heading out to experience the nightlife in “Alice”.

Overnight: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Quad share), Alice Springs
Meals: Breakfast

Day 20 - Alice Springs to Darwin

We say goodbye to the Red Centre today and make our way to the Northern Tropics with a domestic flight. Your guide will be carrying on with you for the journey and will continue to be your guide to show you around the Top End. (Note: Internal domestic flight not included). Tonight we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant to meet the locals and soak up the atmosphere of this colourful town.

Overnight: Travelodge Mirambeena, Darwin
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 21 - Darwin To Kakadu National Park

After welcoming any newcomers this morning, it’s an early start as we leave Darwin and head out to explore a whole new environment – very different to that of the arid Red Centre. Our first adventure is a crocodile spotting cruise. We stop for a visit at a typical “Territory” Roadhouse and then continue on into well known Kakadu National Park. We cross the South Alligator River before heading to Ubirr Rock where we see classic examples of Aboriginal rock art and spectacular 360° views. At the end of the day we travel to our private campsite in Kakadu and enjoy a hearty dinner and share stories around the camp.

Overnight: Kakadu Permanent Private Campsite (twin share – share facilities), Kakadu National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22 - Kakadu To Katherine

After breakfast we will head out to explore one of the many magnificent natural attractions in the National Park, dependent on the season and weather conditions. You will have the opportunity to swim in cool clear water, walk through bush tracks and explore spectacular sandstone country. After lunch travel south out of the park into the historic mining area of Pine Creek. On the way we stop in at Edith Falls for a refreshing swim. We finish the day by travelling to our campsite at the historic Springvale Homestead. Again you can enjoy a dinner under the stars and soak up the atmosphere of this idyllic location.

Overnight: Springvale Homestead Permanent Private Campsite (twin share – share facilities), Katherine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 23 - Katherine To Mt Bundy

It’s an early start today as we make tracks to the majestic Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) for a choice of a two hour cruise or a canoeing adventure. The waters are clear and the gorge is truly spectacular with awesome cliffs up to 70 metres high and lush tropical scenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park once you’ve returned and recharge your batteries. After lunch we travel back up towards Darwin and continue on to our campsite at Mt Bundy Station. We’ll bed down in a Bush Camp tonight for a real Aussie experience on an outback Cattle Station.

Overnight: Mt Bundy Station Homestead Bush Camp (twin share – share facilities), Mt Bundy
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Dinner

Day 24 - Adelaide River To Darwin Via Litchfield National Park

This morning after breakfast we depart for Litchfield National Park. Litchfield is famous for its scenic beauty, waterfalls and safe swimming. We visit Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockholes and walk through beautiful rainforests – plenty of time for swimming and sunning in this gorgeous natural water park. On the way back to Darwin, we visit the township of Batchelor and return to Darwin. Tonight you have time to explore Darwin again, one last time before saying goodbye to your group of friends tomorrow.

Overnight: Travelodge Mirambeena, Darwin
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 25 - Darwin

There’s no group activities planned today so you’re free to depart at any time. If you have the time why not take in a city tour or try one of the cultural walking tours. Otherwise kick back at your resort before it’s time to move on to your next adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Futher Information

Optional Extras

All activities marked with and asteriks (*) are optional extras

What's Included

2 nights at vibrant Byron Bay, Experience Springbrook National Park and the "Natural Arch", Sightseeing on the Gold Coast, Sightseeing in Brisbane, Entrance fee to Forest Glen Wildlife Park, Return ferry crossings to Fraser Island and Long Island, Visit Central Station and Lake Birrabeen in a 4 wheel drive vehicle on Fraser Island, A night at Capricorn CavesEnvironmental Park, 3 nights on Long Island in the Whitsunday Passage at Club Crocodile Resort, Sightseeing in Cairns, Sightseeing in Alice Springs, Entrance fee to Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (Ayers Rock and the Olgas), Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Base, Explore the Devils Marbles, Hike Standley Chasm, Explore Kings Canyon, Experience Kakadu National Park, Cruise of Yellow Waters Billabong, View Aboriginal paintings at Ubirr and Nourlangie Rocks, Explore Litchfield National Park, Sightseeing in Darwin. Meals included are 25 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 18 Dinners

Notes

**Our experienced guides will tailor all of the activities based on seasonal & cultural conditions throughout the year, to maximise your experience and enjoyment. Any deviation from this itinerary will be made with serious consideration and your best interests and safety our priority.