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 BYRON BAY

Our journey commences bright and early, when we depart Sydney via the Harbour Bridge and begin our trek northwards along the Pacific Highway. Crossing the mighty Hawkesbury River, we travel past Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, stopping for lunch along the way (own expense) as we head further north. This afternoon we continue on through the towns of Kempsey, birthplace of the “Akubra” hat, and Coffs Harbour, the Banana growing capital! With the Great Dividing Range to our west and the Pacific Ocean on our east, the highway takes us past the Northern Rivers towns of Grafton and Ballina before reaching the 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 accommodation, we head off to explore this town.

Overnight: Glen Villa Resort (Cabins), Byron Bay
Meals: N/A

Day 2: 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 today. 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. Take a great scenic walk 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. Whether you do too much or too little here, you are guaranteed to enjoy it.

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

Day 3: BYRON BAY to GOLD COAST

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before we depart Byron Bay. Our short journey takes us inland via Murwillumbah and across the state border beside Lamington National Park. Here we enter Queensland. We will make a stop at the “Natural Arch” – a natural feature where a spectacular waterfall plummets through a stone archway into a rock pool below. The short walk here is a must. We then travel through the Numinbah Valley and Nerang, 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, extreme adventure activities* and well known Theme Parks*. Tonight we regroup for dinner.
The restaurants and nightlife here are pumping every night of the week, and we will take you to some of the Gold Coasts’ Hot spots!! Take a short walk to Cavill and Orchid Avenues where you can try some different pubs and clubs.

Overnight: Vibe Hotel Gold Coast (Hotel), Surfers Paradise
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: GOLD COAST

A full day to take in the sights and thrills of Australia’s holiday playground. Take a scenic flight* or grab a board and hit the surf*. There are a number of theme parks* here to visit if you choose – Sea World, Movie World, Dreamworld and Wet ‘n Wild; as well as great shopping and cafes. Visit Australia Zoo* for an ultimate wildlife adventure. Cuddle a koala, hand-feed elephants, walk with a Tiger and watch a crocodile launch from the waters edge. Of course there are also the endless beaches that make this stretch of coastline so famous and, as they are only a short walk from our hotel, it makes it all so easy to enjoy.

Overnight: Vibe Hotel Gold Coast (Hotel), Surfers Paradise
Meals: Breakfast

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 dingos. 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 bus 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: Travelodge (Hotel), 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 (own expense) for 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.

Overnight: Liveaboard Sailing – bunk accommodation, Whitsundays
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

NB: Landlubbers Option*
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, and 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, Whitsundays
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: THE WHITSUNDAYS to AIRLIE BEACH

This morning we set sail again for another idyllic location before returning to the mainland and the busy resort town of Airlie Beach. Tonight we’ll get to experience a night out in “Airlie” with plenty of bars and clubs so you can dance the night away.

Overnight: Crocodile Resort , Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: AIRLIE BEACH to CAIRNS

It’s a big day today as we bid farewell to this beach paradise and head north to Townsville. We break our journey for some lunch (own expense) before checking out The Strand – made up of 2.5km of beaches, parks, and cafes. If time permits, we will take a drive up Castle Hill for breathtaking views overlooking the city and Magnetic Island. Then the final stretch of the Bruce Highway unfolds before us on our way to Cairns. We will stop in at Cardwell taking in the views of Hinchinbrook Island National Park. With Cairns not far away, we pass the highest mountains in Queensland, Mt Bartle Frere (1622m) and Mt Bellenden Kr (1580m) as the Great Dividing Range joins the coast. Upon arrival
into colourful Cairns, we’ll check in to our resort and enjoy some dinner (own expense). This evening you're free to visit the night markets, or if you prefer, kick back, relax and enjoy tropical North Queensland in one of the many nearby restaurants, bars or cafes!

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12: 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. Explore all that tropical North Queensland has to offer – the world is your oyster! Go wild 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. There’s Horse Riding*, Quad Biking*, Bungy Jumping*, Hot Air Ballooning* – the list goes on and on! If you want some time out, the centre of Cairns has some great cafes and shopping. The swimming lagoon is close by and is a great place to cool off. At the day’s end, we can exchange our adventure stories over dinner (own expense).

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: CAIRNS – OPTIONAL GREAT BARRIER REEF

Today you 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 tailor-made performance where you will 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.

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, allows 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. This is a pretty spectacular way to spend another amazing day.

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 15: CAIRNS to ALICE SPRINGS

A morning flight* (own expense) from Cairns takes us to the contrasting scenery of Alice Springs. After arriving, we transfer to our accommodation which is situated at the base of the range and beside the normally dry riverbed of the Todd River. We can check into our rooms and have the rest of the day free to relax and prepare for the next leg of this adventure. At sunset, check out the Rock Wallabies that live amongst the rocks, as they come out to feed. Tonight, you’re free to grab a meal in town or relax at the resort.

*Note: internal domestic flight not included in tour price.. We recommend you book Qantas flight QF1949 departing at 11.25am.

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

Day 16: ALICE SPRINGS to AYERS ROCK CAMPGROUND

Your outback adventure begins in Alice Springs as we head south, stopping for a short visit at the Outback Camel Farm (rides at own expense). We then head straight to our campsite at Yulara for lunch before we meet and greet passengers joining us from Ayers Rock Airport. The afternoon is spent exploring Uluru (Ayers Rock) a World Heritage listed area. Join your knowledgeable guide for a base tour of Uluru, exploring ancient caves where Aboriginal paintings can be seen and learning about one of the oldest cultures in the world. At sunset, you will marvel at the spectacular colour changes of Uluru. Later we return to camp for a traditional Aussie meal. After dinner, relax around the camp under starry desert skies.

Overnight: Camping – Shared Facilities - Ayers Rock Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 17: ULURU–KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK to KINGS CANYON

It’s an early start this morning to enjoy sunrise at magical Kata-Tjuta (The Olgas). Go for a walk to appreciate the beauty of the 36 domes and learn about unique fauna, flora and fire management of the national park. This afternoon 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. If time permits, you’ll enjoy some of the optional activities available. Tomorrow we’ll commence our exploration of the park. Tonight it’s a truly Aussie experience where you will enjoy a traditional camp oven dinner at our tranquil, private campsite at then settle into a tent or sleep under a blanket of stars at Kings Creek Station.

Overnight: Camping , Kings Creek Station
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

There’s a chance early this morning for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride*. The serenity as the sun rises is indescribable while the views of the outback are absolutely awesome. We regroup and venture on an excursion out amongst the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Our stops will include the peaceful setting of Simpsons Gap and the impressive five metre wide Standley Chasm. We return to Alice Springs with time to grab some lunch and explore the town centre. This afternoon is free for shopping, checking e-mails, visiting the galleries or perhaps just returning to our lodge for some leisure time. We’ll regroup and have a chance to feed some rock wallabies before dinner and chat about the day’s events as that red centre sun slowly disappears.

Overnight: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge, Alice Springs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 20: ALICE SPRINGS to RENNER SPRINGS

Today we head northwards via the Stuart Highway, or “up the track” as the locals would say. We cross the Tropic of Capricorn soon after leaving Alice Springs and make for Ti Tree where we break for a refreshment stop. Our afternoon highlight is a visit to the amazing rock formations known as the Devils Marbles. As we explore the site of these amazing, isolated rock formations, we’ll learn about the Aboriginal values as well as the geology. Then to Tennant Creek, a township that owes its prosperity to gold and copper deposits. We continue on further north to our overnight stop at Renner Springs.

Overnight: Motel Accommodation (Quadshare), Renner Springs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 21: RENNER SPRINGS to KATHERINE

Our first stop is at the Northern Territory’s most famous outback pub, Daly Waters. This was once an important refuelling stop for Qantas in the early days of international aviation. The old airstrip does not get much use these days but there are still some interesting old locals at the pub and we take time here to experience their hospitality. On to Mataranka, an oasis for weary travellers. Here, a swim in the clear thermal waters next to the Waterhouse and Roper Rivers is a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. A short drive further north brings us to the town of Katherine, the third largest town in the Territory and situated on the banks of the Katherine River. We’ll have some free time to take on supplies before travelling to our accommodation at the historic Springvale Homestead.

Overnight: Springvale Lodge - shared facilities - Katherine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22: KATHERINE to KAKADU

It’s an early start today as we make tracks to the majestic Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) for a canoeing adventure (option to upgrade to cruise can be arranged with your crew). The waters are clear and the gorge is truly spectacular with awesome cliffs up to 70 metres high and lush tropical scenery. From here we travel to Edith Falls – a picturesque setting for an inviting swim and an idyllic lunch spot. Our journey takes us further north as we join the Kakadu Hwy into the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park. Kakadu has enormous cultural, flora and fauna significance. We will base ourselves here for the next two nights.

Overnight: Camping –Kakadu National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 23: KAKADU

Today our journey takes us to one of the prolific art sites of Nourlangie Rock. We take a walk to see excellent examples of rock-art and ancient shelters, with a short stroll up to the lookout for great views. A visit to the Bowali Visitor’s Information Centre can give us a better understanding and help us appreciate the unique qualities of this diverse Park. If time permits a scenic flight* is a must. This afternoon takes us to another beautiful site that of Ubirr and a visit here is next on our agenda**. This area is steeped in Aboriginal history and also possesses great examples of indigenous art through different eras. The outlook from here over the surrounding Kakadu wetlands is simply stunning. Take in the sunset over the escarpment before we return to our campsite.

Overnight: Camping – shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Dinner

Day 24: KAKADU to MT BUNDY

A morning wildlife cruise on the Corroboree Billabong is an amazing start to our day. Here we get up close and personal with the “salt water” crocodile as well as the abundant birdlife. After making a stop for lunch, we journey onto Adelaide River Inn where you we will meet “Charlie” the famous water buffalo who starred in the film Crocodile Dundee! From here we continue on to our accommodation at Mt Bundy Homestead. This afternoon you may have an opportunity to take a horse ride* (own expense) on Mt Bundy Station.

Overnight: Mt Bundy Station Homestead, Lodge – Shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 25: MT BUNDY 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 swimming. We visit Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, just to name a few and walk through beautiful rainforests – plenty of time for swimming and soaking up the scenery and nature of Litchfield National Park. Next stop Darwin – capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and a modern, tropical city set on a harbour twice the size of Sydney’s. It is a fantastic mix of cultural character, mystery, beauty and unlimited potential that is waiting to be explored! Perhaps tonight you will hit the town with the rest of the group to celebrate the end of what has been a truly amazing experience.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

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.