Darwin to Sydney Tour - 25 Days

Itinerary

Day 1 - Darwin to Kakadu National Park (via Litchfield National Park)

To Litchfield National Park just south of Darwin where waterfalls cascade from the sandstone plateau of Tabletop Range and create beautiful pools and pockets of rainforests. These features combine to provide a special paradise for us to enjoy. Highlights of our visit to the Park include the giant termite mounds, Florence and Wangi Falls and refreshing swims in their natural pool. On to the Arnhem Highway, destination Kakadu National Park. En route we will visit “Window on the Wetland” a fascinating interpretive centre with great views across the flood plains. Once inside the entrance of this 20,000 square kilometre Park, we head to the village of Jabiru where we will base ourselves for the next two nights.

Overnight
Kakadu Lodge (Lodge)
GPO Box 4666
Darwin, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8979 2422
Meals - Dinner

Day 2 - Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is World Heritage Listed and has enormous cultural and natural significance. Within this vast area of land the re is an estimated 5000 rock -art sites with the worlds largest and oldest rock -art collection. Along with the crocodiles there are many other species of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish – a truly rich environment. A scenic flight** is a great way to gain an overview into the immensity and raw beauty of this Park There is also time today to partake in some special activities that will enhance you experience here. These include a Four Wheel Drive full day excursion to the well known Jim Jim and Twin Falls** or perhaps a Aboriginal Cultural Cruise “Guluyambi”** on the East Alligator River to learn of local mythology, Dreamtime stories and traditional hunting methods. Another option is to undertake a 4 wheel drive tour to Arnhem Land** to see some remote Aboriginal Art and learn from the local people about the culture. A visit to the Bowali Visitors Centre can give a better understanding and help us appreciate the unique qualities of this diverse Park.

Overnight
Kakadu Lodge (Lodge)
GPO Box 4666
Darwin, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8979 2422
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3 - Kakadu National Park to Darwin

An early morning wildlife cruise on Yellow Water Billabong is an amazing start to our day. The large “salt water” crocodiles are lurking here along with many other creatures and this is the best time of the day to see this environment come to life. Our next stop is at the rock -art site of Nourlangie. We take a walk around the circuit witnessing excellent examples of Aboriginal rock art and ancient shelters, with a short stroll up to the lookout for great views of the escarpment and Nourlangie Rock. Another beautiful site is that of Ubirr and a visit here is next on our agenda. An area steeped in Aboriginal history and also possessing great examples of indigenous art through different era’s. The outlook from here over the surrounding Kakadu wetlands is simply stunning. A great way to finish our Park visit and to remember the beauty of this land as we make our way back to Darwin. Meal out own expense.

Overnight
Mirambeena Tourist Resort
64 Cavenagh Street
Darwin, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8946 0111
Meals – Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4 - Darwin to Katherine (via Nitmiluk National Park)

Leaving the “Top End” and Darwin we cross the Adelaide River and en-route the gold mining town of Pine Creek before arriving at the Leliyn (Edith Falls). A series of waterfalls on the edge of the escarpment flow all year ending in a large pool, fringed with pandanus - a great place for a swim. A short distance away is Nitmiluk National Park, land of the traditional Jawoyn Aboriginal people. Here we discover the impressive Katherine Gorge, carved out of the sandstone by the river system for millions of years. An optional cruise into the gorge system or share a canoe and paddle yourself along this tranquil waterway. Time now to check into our motel and prepare for dinner.

Overnight
Mercure Inn Katherine (Motel)
Stuart Highway
Katherine, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8972 1744
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Katherine to Banka Banka Station

A short drive south brings us 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. Our next 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. We then enjoy dinner before sleeping under the stars in swags at Banka Banka Station.

Overnight
Banka Banka Station
Stuart Highway
Via Tennant Creek. Northern Territory.
Phone: 08 89644511
Aussie Bed Rolls (Camp)
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Banka Banka Station to Alice Springs

Our first stop this morning is Tennant Creek, a township that owes its prosperity to gold and copper deposits. Our highlight today is a visit to the amazing rock formations known as the Devils Marbles. Apart from the geological interest, there is also the Aboriginal values to learn of here as we briefly explore the site, taking a photo or two of these “red balled” boulders. Onwards past the old outpost of Barrow Creek and the self proclaimed UFO capital of Oz – Wycliffe Well. Southwards via the Stuart Highway, or “down the track” as the locals would say. We cross the Tropic of Capricorn soon before arriving in Alice Springs.

Overnight
Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Lodge)
Palm Circuit
Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8950 4444
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - Alice Springs

The chance exists early this morning for a breath taking hot air balloon ride**. The serenity as the sun rises and the views of the outback are absolutely awesome. Back to earth we 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 at dinner (out own expense) and chat about the day’s events as that “red centre” sun slowly disappears.

Overnight
Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Lodge)
Palm Circuit
Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8950 4444
Meals - Breakfast

Day 8 - Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Resort

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 in time for lunch. After meeting those passengers joining the tour at Ayers Rock Airport, we make tracks to the Cultural Centre, where we can gain an insight into the enormous cultural significance and splendour of this World Heritage Listed Area. Next a short drive to the Sunset Viewing area. 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.

Overnight
Ayers Rock Resort
Ayers Rock (share facilities)
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 - Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park to Kings Canyon

We spend the morning at the rock before we join the road again, this time bound for Watarrka National Park and the appropriately named Kings Canyon, a wonder of the Outback. Before commencing our exploration of the park, we will settle in to our campsite at Kings Creek Station, enjoy some lunch and prepare for our walk.

Overnight
Kings Creek Station (Campsite)
Kings Canyon, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8956 7474
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 - Kings Canyon

Once at the base of the Canyon we can begin ascending the track that takes us above massive sandstone cliffs overlooking the valley floor. Now for our rim walk finally reaching the back of the 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 Central Australian visit. We return via the other side of the Canyon and then a short drive has us back at Kings Creek Station where we can take a shower before enjoying another great dinner.

Overnight
Kings Creek Station (Campsite)
Kings Canyon, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8956 7474
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 - Kings Creek Station to Alice Springs

A relaxing start to the day as we take breakfast in the morning sun. For those with a desire to experience some outback adventures, here is a great place to go on quad bike ri de** or an outback camel trek** – first thing in the morning is the best time and it can make a great start to the day. We then return to Alice Springs, making a stop for lunch along the way. Once back in Alice Springs we take time to visit Anzac Hill where the views of the township and surrounding ranges is the best way to experience the setting for this remote town simply known to the locals as “Alice”. Our next appointment is with the doctor – The Royal Flying Doctor that is, as we take a short tour of inspection at their Alice Springs Base for a fascinating insight into the provision of medical services in the Outback. This evening we enjoy a meal out (own expense).

Overnight
Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge (Lodge)
Palm Circuit
Alice Springs, Northern Territory
Phone: 08 8950 4444
Meals – Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12 - Alice Springs to Cairns

A morning flight* from Alice takes us to the contrasting scenery of Cairns. After arriving we transfer to our accommodation and check into our rooms and have the rest of the day free to relax and prepare for the next leg of this adventure. Tonight, grab a meal in town (own expense).

*Domestic flight is not included in the tour price

Overnight
Palm Royale Resort (Resort)
7-11 Chester Court
Cairns, Queensland
Phone: 07 4032 2700
Meals - Breakfast

Day 13 - Cairns

A leisurely morning before we visit the village of Kuranda nestled in the rainforest ranges behind Cairns. If you wish you can travel above the rainforest canopy via the well known “Skyrail” cableway journey. Time to browse the local markets at Kuranda before we head back down to Cairns. *Dinner at own expense

Overnight
Palm Royale Resort (Resort)
7-11 Chester Court
Cairns, Queensland
Phone: 07 4032 2700
Meals - Breakfast & Lunch

Day 14 - Optional Great Barrier Reef

Today the option to discover the world’s largest coral reef aboard our cruising yacht. The Great Barrier Reef is a fascinating maze of coral reefs and coral 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. Facemasks and snorkels are supplied. (Scuba Diving* is also available) Here we will witness the wonders of the reef that’s brimming with life. The brilliant colours of the coral and fish coupled with the most diverse collection of marine life found anywhere in the world make this adventure unforgettable. On our return journey, we stop at a coral cay for some more snorkelling, swimming or diving. Even just to sit on the pure white sand of the cay is great. Back to Cairns to freshen up for dinner and a night out in town. (Own expense).

Overnight
Palm Royale Resort (Resort)
7-11 Chester Court
Cairns, Queensland
Phone: 07 4032 2700
Meals - Breakfast

Day 15 - Cairns

Let yourself go on a huge range of optional activities available in Cairns. For the adventurous, white water rafting on the Tully River is a must.

Overnight
Palm Royale Resort (Resort)
7-11 Chester Court
Cairns, Queensland
Phone: 07 4032 2700
Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 16 - Cairns to the Whitsundays

Leaving Cairns behind we make tracks to the Whitsundays via Townsville, North Queensland’s largest city and headquarters for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Time for a quick stroll along the Strand, take in the sights of Cleveland Bay and across to Magnetic Island before we board our ferry to Long Island.

Overnight
Club Crocodile Long Island (Resort)
Long Island, Queensland
Phone: 07 4946 9400
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

NB: Optional Whitsunday Sailing Cruise Here is your opportunity to sail the beautiful waters of the Whitsunday Passage on a 2 day/2 night live aboard sailing cruise under the guidance of our professional skipper. You will visit secluded coves and see one of Australia’s most pristine beaches, aboard our fully equipped yacht. Great sailing, swimming and coral viewing opportunities ensure an awesome experience. We join our yacht at 5.00pm at Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach on Day 4 of our 14 Day Itinerary and re-join the tour group at 2.30pm on Day 6 at the Club Crocodile Long Island Resort.

Day 17 and 18 - The Whitsundays

Two days to relax on Long Island and enjoy the facilities of the Club Crocodile Resort. Experience one of the great bushwalks, try some of the many aquatic activities including jet skiing, perhaps a game of beach volleyball or just relax and enjoy a cocktail by the pool. Please note an optional 2 day/2night live aboard sailing cruise is also available.

Overnight
Club Crocodile Long Island (Resort)
Long Island, Queensland
Phone: 07 4946 9400
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner – both days

Day 19 - The Whitsundays to Capricorn Caves

We board our ferry at for our short cruise to Shute Harbour where we join our coach for the drive to Mackay, commercial centre of Queensland’s huge sugar industry, then to Capricorn Caves. For the adventurous we can access for an optional candle-lit exploration. Wildlife also abounds including kangaroos, echidnas, possums and of course the insectivorous bats.

Overnight
Capricorn Caves (Lodges)
Olsens Caves Road
Rockhampton, Queensland
Phone: 07 4934 2883
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 20 - Capricorn Caves to Fraser Island

Leaving Rockhampton (Rocky) we head southbound with a visit to Lake Barrabeen, another beautiful inland lake before we board our ferry bound for Fraser Island.

Overnight
Eurong Resort (Hotel)
Fraser Island, Queensland
Phone: 07 4127 9122
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 21 - 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 extraordinary diversity in 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. The best way to see this magnificent national park is on our optional 4-wheel drive tour*, taking us along the unspoilt surf beaches and to pristine inland freshwater lakes that are ideal for swimming. Another way to take in the park is via a scenic flight. Our hotel is situated beside Seventy Five Mile Beach, which also doubles as the runway for the aircraft.

Overnight
Eurong Resort (Hotel)
Fraser Island, Queensland
Phone: 07 4127 9122
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22 - Fraser Island to Gold Coast

After leaving Fraser Island we join our coach and head south our first stop the Forest Glen Wildlife Park. We then head into Queensland’s capital, Brisbane and some free Time to explore the inner city before we arrive in the holiday playground – The Gold Coast.

Overnight
Mercure Resort Surfers Paradise (Resort)
122 Ferny Avenue
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland
Phone: 07 5579 4444
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12 - Gold Coast

A free day to choose your own activity. Try roller blading* on the esplanade, hire a jet ski* or surfing equipment.* There are a number of great theme parks* here to visit if you choose – Sea World, Movie World, Dreamworld and Wet’n’Wild as well as great shopping and cafes. If your legs would like a stretch, head for the World Heritage Listed Lamington National park on an organised bush walk* Here you will experience rich plant and animal life in a wonderland of rainforest and volcanic ridges criss-crossed by many walking tracks. Of course there are also the great beaches that make this stretch of coastline so special and, as they are only a short walk from our resort, it makes it all so easy to enjoy. Tonight after dinner, a short walk to Cavill Avenue where there are some great nightclubs.

Overnight
Mercure Resort Surfers Paradise (Resort)
122 Ferny Avenue
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland
Phone: 07 5579 4444
Meals - Breakfast

Day 24 - Gold Coast to Byron Bay

This morning we venture via the Numinbah Valley, home of the Natural Arch - a spectacular waterfall – then across the border into New South Wales – bound for Byron Bay. *Evening meal is at own expense.

Overnight
Glen Villa Resort (Cabins)
Butler Street
Byron Bay, New South Wales
Phone: 02 6685 7382
Meals - Breakfast & Lunch

Day 25 - Byron Bay

The perfect place to relax. We can take a scenic walk to the lighthouse, try a surfing lesson go diving, even hang gliding.

Overnight
Glen Villa Resort (Cabins)
Butler Street
Byron Bay, New South Wales
Phone: 02 6685 7382
Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 26 - Byron Bay to Sydney

Travel through the townships of Grafton, Port Macquarie and Kempsey on our way to Sydney. We cross Sydney’s magnificent Harbour Bridge and say farewell.

Meals - Breakfast & Lunch

Further Information

Optional Extras

All activities marked with and asterisk (*) 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 Caves Environmental 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 25 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 18 Dinners