Complete Australia Explorer

Begin your time in Australia exploring the city nearly synonymous with the country, Sydney. From the bay, to the mountain landscapes around it, one should not miss the iconic sights offered it. Next continue onto Melbourne, the funky city to the south that gets less attention than Sydney, but makes up for it in attitude. Then spend a couple of days exploring the beautiful sand dunes of Mildura, before continuing on to Cairns, the base from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef and adventure capital of Australia. From Great Reefs, to dense green forests, towering mountains, epic outback plains, and perfect beaches, Australia's diversity is immense, and does not stop at its landscapes. If you only ever wanted to travel through one country for the rest of your life, Australia might be a good choice. Such sheer scope of natural diversity has rendered Australia a premier destination for the outdoor enthusiast, boasting bungee-jumping, white-water rafting, hiking, skiing, surfing and scuba-diving opportunities. Whatever your intentions for visiting Australia, and wherever your wanderings may lead you, you cannot escape Australia's astounding beauty, relaxing atmosphere and colorful locals.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney Arrival

Sydney Arrival
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Accommodation: Sydney Harbour Marriott

Welcome to Australia! Today, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Check in and enjoy the remainder of the day free after your long flight.

Sydney

Hugging one of the world's most famous harbours, and defined by its two iconic structures, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia's capital is instantly recognizable. But for a city that is so defined by a building though, its people sure do love spending time outdoors. From surfing, to hiking and just hanging in a park, it's the city's active population that gives it real life. There are always new restaurants to try, a different hiking trail to hit, and a sea of excitable locals down for a pint. Sydney is a true modern metropolis, and happy people form all over the world seem to funnel here, and the result is one of our favorite cities in the world.

Day 2: Sydney

Sydney
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Sydney City Tour & Harbour Cruise
  • Accommodation: Sydney Harbour Marriott
  • Meals: L

Sydney City Tour & Harbour Cruise

This morning, you will be taken on an exploration of Sydney's highlights and hidden treasures. Your first stop includes a visit to the historic neighborhood of The Rocks, where your guide will teach you about its flourishing past and early convict history. From there, you will continue to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, followed by a tour of the city's shopping district. Visit the trendy area around Oxford Street and admire the elegant neighborhood of Paddington, with its terrace houses and charming ambiance.

From the bustling city center, you will venture out to the Pacific Ocean. Take the coastal cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte, before continuing to Australia's famous Bondi Beach. A leisurely stroll down this beachfront promenade, will quickly showoff its attractive appeal. Soak up Sydney’s best panoramic view at Dover Heights, followed by a scenic journey through Double Bay, Kings Cross and Mrs Macquaries Point, back to the city center. The final part of your adventure includes a lovely harbour lunch cruise. Admire the city from a different perspective, as you sail through the gentle waters of the harbour, listen to the informative commentary and enjoy a delicious lunch. Disembark the boat at King Street Wharf or Circular Quay, from where you will make your own way back to the hotel. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 3: Sydney

Sydney
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Full Day Blue Mountains & Wildlife Discovery
  • Accommodation: Sydney Harbour Marriott
  • Meals: L

Full Day Blue Mountains & Wildlife Discovery

Today's nature exploration and wildlife discovery tour takes place in the heart of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Region. From lush temperate rainforests, to towering sandstone escarpments, you will have the chance to see it all. Alongside a knowledgeable guide and small group of other travelers, you will venture outside the city center, and escape to a wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalyptus forests. Following in the footsteps of your guide, you will be led off the beaten track to remote lookout locations, as you discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.

The first stop of the day will be Euroka Clearing, located deep in the National Park. Admire the abundant bird life of this area that is also home to wild kangaroos. Enjoy a break for morning tea, coffee and local treats, before ascending the Blue Mountains towards the majestic viewpoints of the Jamison Valley. Your guide will make sure to take you to the least crowded areas, so that you can make the most of this experience. One of these hidden secrets, the Eaglehawk Lookout, features beautiful views of the famous Three Sisters. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons, as the sunlight showcases a magnificent variety of colors. As you take photos, your guide will discuss the legends behind this attraction.

This afternoon, you will be driven to the village of Blackheath, where a lovely 2 course lunch will be served at Hydro Majestic, beside by stunning views. Beverages are not included, and can be purchased at your own expense from the bar. After lunch, you will continue to one of Australia's most famous lookouts, Govetts Leap. A magnificent waterfall here drops a whopping 180 m to the base of the cliff. After admiring in awe, you will head over to the western boundary of the park and descend into Hartley Vale. Packed with history, make sure to also keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus and more bird life in the farmland valley. Your last stop of the tour will be the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, before you are taken back to your hotel around 5:00 PM. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 4: Sydney

Sydney
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Sydney Harbour Marriott
Enjoy this free time at your leisure.

Day 5: Sydney - Melbourne

Sydney - Melbourne
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Transfer - Domestic Flight - Transfer
  • Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Melbourne

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Melbourne

Melbourne is perhaps best characterized as Sydney's young, artsy, hip sister. Intricate, multicultural, intense art covers many walls in this colorful city, and locals are fiercely proud of their home's artistic streak. Like all the coolest cities, Melbourne's urban center is divided into small neighborhoods, and wandering three blocks brings one new vibe after another. There's always a street festival to wander through, an art exhibit to appreciate, or a coffee tasting to sit in on. The university and the city's sports teams are ingrained into the culture as well, so expect a young, enthusiastic local crowd cheering at a football or cricket match.

Day 6: Melbourne

Melbourne
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Morning City Tour
  • Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Melbourne
  • Meals: B

Morning City Tour

This morning at 8:30am, you will be picked up from your hotel to head off on a 3 hour city tour of Melbourne. This tour will allow you to marvel at the attractions of Melbourne in a relaxed and entertaining way. Your knowledgeable guide will bring the buildings to life and explain the rich history of this city as you make your way through the sites. Enjoy a walk in the park, visit the Cathedral (when permitted), stop for a coffee if you want, just like if you were exploring your own city. A highlight of the excursion includes a visit to the Eureka Skydeck 88. At the end of this morning's tour, you can continue on an individual exploration, or make your own way back to the hotel. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 7: Melbourne

Melbourne
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Great Ocean Road Tour
  • Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Melbourne
  • Meals: B

Great Ocean Road Tour

You will be picked up at your hotel today, to embark on a tour of the Great Ocean Road. Experience this majestic coastal drive in style, with time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world famous route. Stay on the lookout for some fascinating wildlife sightings, that include whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots. Your camera won't experience a single dull moment along this exciting itinerary, that offers endless photo opportunities.

During your exploration, you can take a stroll along the wild beaches or stop for a coffee at the striking Split Point Lighthouse to admire the breathtaking scenery. You will stop at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town set among the soft rolling hills, that offers a great selection of cafes and restaurants. This would be the perfect place to purchase lunch, if you are hungry. From there, the adventure continues with exclusive access to an ancient Eucalyptus Forest walk, located at the iconic Great Ocean Road EcoLodge, where you can expect close encounters with koalas, kangaroos and native birds. This truly unique tour experience will be capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 8: Melbourne

Melbourne
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Melbourne
  • Meals: B
Enjoy this free time at your leisure.

Day 9: Melbourne - Mildura

Melbourne - Mildura
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Transfer - Domestic Flight - Transfer
  • Accommodation: Best Western Chaffey International Motor Inn
  • Meals: B

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Days 10 - 12: Mildura

Mildura
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Best Western Chaffey International Motor Inn

Enjoy this free time at your leisure.

Day 13: Mildura - Cairns - Port Douglas

Mildura - Cairns - Port Douglas
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Transfer - Domestic Flight - Transfer
  • Accommodation: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Port Douglas.

Day 14: Port Douglas

Port Douglas
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Wavedancer Low Isles Cruise
  • Accommodation: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas
  • Meals: B, L

Wavedancer Low Isles Cruise

Today you will enjoy a catamaran cruise to Low Isles.

Low Isles is an idyllic, unspoiled coral cay island in the Great Barrier Reef, just one hour’s sailing from Port Douglas. Combined with the romance of sailing aboard Quicksilver’s luxury sailing catamaran, Wavedancer, this is the perfect day for families and couples seeking island relaxation. Snorkel, enjoy a glass bottom boat tour, take a guided beach walk and snorkel tour with a marine biologist or just relax on the beach under a thatched umbrella. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 15: Port Douglas

Port Douglas
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Kuranda Rail, Rainforest & Skyrail
  • Accommodation: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas
  • Meals: B, L

Kuranda Rail, Rainforest & Skyrail

Today your driver will meet you at your accommodation and check you in for your tour using your Kuranda Boarding pass. The pass includes a detailed itinerary, pre-allocated preferential Kuranda Scenic Railway seating, map of Kuranda, and discounted entry into selected Kuranda attractions. Boarding the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail, an amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world's most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorge.

Once you alight at beautiful Kuranda Station, you have ample time to explore the many and varied shops, as well as the Heritage Markets which operate daily. Your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest, a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. An experienced guide will show you unique tropical fruits, ancient rainforest plants and point out a number of their native animals as you meander through the rainforest.

Join the Dreamtime Walk for an insight into ancient Aboriginal Culture. The Pamagirri Dancers perform a range of native dances in the Rainforest Amphitheatre that reflects their humor and excitement of their culture. A delicious BBQ lunch is included before visiting the Koala & Wildlife Park. Cuddle a koala (own expense), smile at a crocodile and hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies before returning to Kuranda. At your pre-allocated time board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Center. Your return transfer departs at 4:50pm where their hostess is waiting to assist you with your return transfer.

Days 16 - 17: Port Douglas

Port Douglas
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas
  • Meals: B

Enjoy this free time at your leisure in Port Douglas.

Day 18: Port Douglas Departure

Port Douglas Departure
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Meals: B

Today you will be met by your private driver and transferred to the airport for your departing flight. We hope you enjoyed your experience and we wish you a pleasant flight home.

Accommodation

Sydney Harbour Marriott

Sydney Harbour Marriott

Location, location, location: The Sydney Harbor Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay boasts the best there is. Perfectly situated overlooking the gorgeous Sydney Harbor and national landmark, the Sydney Opera House, our Circular Quay hotel is mere steps from the historic Rocks District and world-class shopping. Spend your day sightseeing, then return to our five-star Marriott Sydney hotel for much-deserved pampering in our spa. Satisfy your inner foodie at our beloved onsite restaurant, Icons Brasserie, sip on a carefully crafted cocktail or well-poured pint at Customs House Bar, or indulge in a coffee at Macquarie Lounge. Find a restorative respite in our Circular Quay hotel's immaculately appointed rooms, offering luxe amenities and awe-inspiring harbor views. Reserve your stay at one of travelers' favorite Sydney Harbor hotels online easily, and start daydreaming about your harbor view hotel stay today.

Crowne Plaza Melbourne

Crowne Plaza Melbourne

Crowne Plaza Melbourne is in the heart of the city's vibrant docklands. The bright Lobby is alive with conversation and as you step to our Front Desk you'll know you're in good company. They'll take your bags if you want to sit back with a local microbrew in the Lobby Bar. You're surrounded by restaurants on the Yarra's north bank, just over the bridge from the Crown Casino and Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Center. Crowne Plaza Melbourne is a 5-minute walk from Southern Cross rail station and a 2-minute stroll to the tramways for swift travel across the city.

Best Western Chaffey International Motor Inn

Best Western Chaffey International Motor Inn

Located in the thriving city of Mildura, the Best Western Chaffey Motor Inn is ideally situated a short 3km from the grand Murray River, from which guests can explore the regions natural attractions, heritage trails, museums, galleries and extensive offering of food and wine.

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas is set a theme that is tropical North Queensland, Australia, the essence of Starwood luxury in Port Douglas has been captured for here, amidst stunning examples of wilderness and natural beauty, exists true peace and tranquillity and every facility the discerning guest may desire.. Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas is surrounded by five acres of swimmable saltwater lagoons, The only first-class resort in tropical North Queensland, Australia. Luxury accommodation located on the foreshore of Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas.

Pricing and Details

Starting from $ 8,558 per person

*Pricing is based on two persons traveling together, based on availability, subject to change.

Price Includes

  • Full support before, during & after your trip
  • Meals as mentioned
  • Accommodation as mentioned
  • Tours/activities as mentioned
  • Transport as mentioned

Price Excludes

  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Entrance visas when applicable
  • Other services not mentioned
  • Tips and gratuities to guides, drivers
  • Taxes and fees

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