Darwin to Sydney Tour - 25 Days

Itinerary

Day 1: DARWIN to MT BUNDY VIA LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

Your outback journey begins in the Top End of the Territory when we head out of Darwin to Litchfield National Park. Litchfield is famous for its scenic beauty, waterfalls & swimming. We visit Florence Falls and Wangi Falls 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. From here, we continue on to our accommodation at Mt Bundy Homestead and along the way we will stop to check out the magnetic and cathedral termite mounds. Arriving at Adelaide River, we will catch up with ‘Charlie” the water buffalo. A short drive sees us arrive at Mr Bundy Homestead where you will have the opportunity to take an optional horse ride, or chill out and enjoy this tranquil setting.

* Please remember to bring your swimmers & towel on board the bus

Overnight: Mt Bundy Homestead, Lodge – share facilities
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: MT BUNDY to KAKADU

An early start today as we make our way towards the Arnhem highway. A morning wildlife cruise on the Corroboree Billabong is an amazing start to our day. From here we enter Kakadu National Park where we get up close and personal with the “salt water” crocodile as well as the abundant birdlife. Kakadu is World Heritage Listed and has enormous cultural, flora & fauna significance. We will base ourselves here for the next two nights. Onto our accommodation, and after settling in, we will make our way to Ubirr Rock and check out some amazing rock art before ascending to some amazing escarpment country taking in some awesome views, before returning to our private camp for dinner.

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

Day 3: KAKADU

Today our journey takes us to one of the prolific art site 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. We return to our camp for a hearty lunch. This afternoon you will have some free time to chill out and relax by the pool. For those more adventurous, there is an opportunity for an optional scenic flight.

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

DAY 4: KAKADU to KATHERINE

This morning we make our way out of the National Park via the Kakadu Highway. We re-join ‘the track’ and travel on to Edith Falls – a picturesque setting for an inviting swim and an idyllic lunch spot. A short drive further south brings us to the town of Katherine, the third largest town in the Territory and situated on the banks of the Katherine River. Some free time to take on supplies before 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 meters high and lush tropical scenery. This is a pretty spectacular way to spend your afternoon before heading to our accommodation at Springvale Homestead.

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

Day 5: KATHERINE to TENNANT CREEK

This morning we head on further south. We make a stop at 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. We also stop in 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 the hospitality. This afternoon we make our way to our overnight stop at Tennant Creek, a township that owes its prosperity to gold and copper deposits.

Overnight: Motel Accommodation, Tennant Creek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: TENNANT CREEK to ALICE SPRINGS

First stop this morning is the amazing rock formations known as the Devils Marbles. Apart from the geological interest, there are also the Aboriginal values to learn of here as we briefly explore the site of these amazing isolated rock formations. We will stop to enjoy lunch as we make our way further south, and break for a refreshment stop at Ti Tree. This afternoon we cross the Tropic of Capricorn before arriving into the heart of the Red Centre, Alice Springs.

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

DAY 7: ALICE SPRINGS

The chance exists 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 emails, visiting the galleries or perhaps just returning to our lodge for some leisure time. We’ll regroup and have the 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 (Quad Share). Alice Springs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 8: ALICE SPRINGS to AYERS ROCK CAMPGROUND

It’s an early start today 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 & Dinner

Day 9: ULURU–KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK to KINGS CANYON

It’s an early start for an exciting morning with breathtaking views of sunrise at 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 were 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:  Camping – shared facilities, Kings Creek Station
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: 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 11: CAIRNS

Leaving the Outback, our afternoon flight* (own expense) from Alice takes us to the contrasting scenery of Cairns. After arriving, your East Coast crew will meet you at Cairns Airport and transfer you to your tour accommodation. Here you can check into our rooms and have the rest of the day free to relax and prepare for the next leg of this adventure. Tonight, you’re free to grab a meal in town or relax at the resort.

*Domestic flight is not included in the tour price.  We recommend you book Qantas Flight QF1948

Overnight:  Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12: CAIRNS

We meet at our hotel in the heart of Carins before we head off to explore the nearby tropical Rainforest and Kuranda before returning 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, the Skyrail journey immerses you in an intimate rainforest experience where you’ll see, hear, smell and become part of the tropical rainforest environment.
Tonight you're in for a real treat! Meet the local Tjapukai people and see how they showcase their culture where you will be joined by a member of the Tjapukai dance troupe as they engage you in a discussion of the evening’s highlight event– Tjapukai by Night where you will witness fire explosions, spectacular special effects, music, dance and spiritual ceremony. 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 first night on tour.

Overnight: Hides Resort, Cairns
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13: CAIRNS – OPTIONAL GREAT BARRIER REEF

Today you have the option to discover the world’s largest coral 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. The Great Barrier Reef is a fascinating maze of coral reefs and cays extending over 2000 kilometres along the Queensland Coast. Once anchored at the reef, slip over the side and explore this underwater paradise at your own pace. You’ll be amazed by the wonders of the reef that is brimming with life - the brilliant colours of the coral and varieties of fish makes this experience unforgettable! On the return journey, stop at a natural coral cay – a fragile and unique ecosystem of brilliant white sand and warm shallow water for some more snorkelling, swimming or diving*, or just chill out – where else would you rather be!! 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 14: CAIRNS

Another fabulous day to explore all that tropical North Queensland has to offer – the world is your oyster! Cairns is the perfect base to explore North Queensland, with a load of activities to suit everyone. With both the reef and the rainforest at your doorstep, you choose from a range of optional activities 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 15: CAIRNS to THE WHITSUNDAYS

Leaving Cairns behind, we make tracks south along the Bruce Highway to the Whitsundays. We stop in the coastal village of Cardwell, overlooking Hinchinbrook Island National Park. We pass the highest mountains in Queensland, Mt Bartle Frere (1622m) and Mt Bellenden Ker (1580m) as the Great Dividing Range looms closer to the coast. Situated on Cleveland Bay, Townsville is North Queensland’s largest city. Here we break our journey for some lunch (own expense) before checking out The Strand which is made up of 2.5km of beaches, parks and cafes! If time permits we will take a scenic drive up Castle Hill for breathtaking views overlooking the city and Magnetic Island. 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 - Multi-share bunk – Share Facilities, 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 16: 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.

Overnight:  Liveaboard Sailing, Whitsundays, Multi-share bunk – Share Facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 17: THE WHITSUNDAYS to AIRLIE BEACH

This morning we set sail again for another idyllic location before returning to the mainland and the 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: Club Crocodile Resort Airlie Beach (Resort) Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18: WHITSUNDAYS to ROCKHAMPTON

We make a morning drive to Mackay - commercial centre of Queensland’s huge sugar industry. Here we'll stop for an early lunch (own expense) for your last real chance to enjoy North Queensland. After a short break to stretch your legs then it’s on Rockhampton the beef capital of Australia and “Rocky” to the locals. 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 Rockhampton Hotel, Rockhampton
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 19: ROCKHAMPTON to FRASER ISLAND

Today we reunite with the Bruce Highway and travel south through more beef and sugar cane country towards the Fraser Coast. We make a short stop for lunch and back on the road again to Hervey Bay. We make a short stop for lunch and back on the road again to Hervey Bay –beachside resort town and stepping off point for the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island. 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 on the western side of the island.

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

Day 20: 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, enjoy a cocktail at the bar, while watching the sun set over the bay.

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

Day 21: FRASER ISLAND to THE GOLD COAST

This morning we say our last goodbyes to Fraser Island, board our ferry and return to the mainland, where we continue our journey south through the old gold mining town of Gympie and past the world famous Glasshouse Mountains. It’s not long before reach Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane. Hit the shops at Queen Street Mall, stroll along the Brisbane River or kick back in a coffee shop and watch the world go by at a relaxed pace. Heading further south it’s only a short trip down the freeway to Australia’s holiday playground – The Gold Coast, Queensland’s second largest city. This region is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations with its great climate and famous surf beaches. The restaurants and nightlife here are pumping every night of the week, and tonight we head out to enjoy a local meal together and check out the local Hot Spots!

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

Day 22: 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 resort, it makes it all so easy to enjoy.

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

Day 23: GOLD COAST to BYRON BAY

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before we depart Surfers Paradise for the Gold Coast’s Hinterland and Springbrook National Park. 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 leave this tranquil environment and travel south, crossing the New South Wales border towards the popular resort town of Byron Bay, Australia’s most easterly township. Renowned for its surfing beaches and beautiful rainforests, Byron Bay enjoys a relaxed and informal lifestyle that has become a favourite for many travellers. Tonight you have the option to explore this vibrant town and grab some dinner (own expense).

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

Day 24: BYRON BAY

A full day ahead to enjoy what Byron Bay has to offer. Renowned for its great surf 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. 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. 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: Breakfast

Day 25: BYRON BAY to SYDNEY

Our journey commences bright and early when we depart Byron Bay southwards along the Pacific Highway. With the Great Dividing Range to our west and the Pacific Ocean on our east, the highway takes us past the Northern River towns of Ballina and Grafton. This morning we continue on through the towns of Coffs Harbour, the Banana growing capital and Kempsey, birthplace of the “Akubra” stopping for lunch along the way! We travel on the edge of the Hunter Region before crossing the mighty Hawkesbury River, passing the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Sydney looms large as we travel across the Harbour Bridge before it’s time to bid our travelling companions farewell as our tour reaches its completion in this great city.

Meals: Breakfast

**Our experienced guides will tailor all of the activities based on seasonal & cultural conditions throughout

Further Information

Optional Extras

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

What's Included

23 Breakfasts (B), 10 Lunches (L), 14 Dinners (D)
13 nights Hotel, 7 nights cabins, 2 nights liveaboard sailing ship in the Whitsundays, 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