Australian Experience

A fantastic dream itinerary for the first time visitor to Australia, this wonderful journey will take you to the great Australian cities of Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, monolithic Uluru - lost amongst the immensity of the Outback, the fabulously rich natural and cultural delights of the Northern Territory’s ‘Top End’, and tropical Cairns - gateway to the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef.

Guide

PRIVATE JOURNEY → This is a predominately private multi-centre itinerary and not an escorted tour. The exception is the Arnhem Land & Kakadu, which is a short escorted tour from Darwin operated by AAT Kings.

MEAL PLAN
Lunch is included on Days 10 and 11.

ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is in 4 star hotels except Arnhem Land & Kakadu where only a 3 star superior hotel is available.

TRANSFERS
Airport transfers are included at each destination.

EXPERIENCES
A selection of prebookable experiences are available.

TRAVEL TIPS
Remember to bring swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and sturdy non-slip footwear for Arnhem Land & Kakadu. Please note that during the wet season (approx. Nov-May) roads may be flooded and alternative touring may be necessary.

NB
No flights are included in the price of this itinerary.

DAY 1
Arrive in Perth and make your way to the Crowne Plaza Perth. Enjoy three days to discover the many pleasures of this relaxed riverside city. Perhaps choose a romantic cruise, cycle your way along the river’s edge or browse for Aboriginal arts and craftwork. After exploring the city, you may like to see the diverse surrounding area. Take a boat to Rottnest Island - home of the rare quokka; navigate the incredible Pinnacles Desert or travel to the amazing formation of Wave Rock.

DAY 4
Fly to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural hub, for a three night stay at the stylish Crown Promenade. From here you can dip into the exciting Crown Casino, numerous galleries and boutiques or discover the historic laneways. Perhaps visit the beautiful Yarra Valley and indulge in a day's wine tasting; or hire a car and drive along one of the world's most scenic routes: The Great Ocean Road. Melbourne also plays host to a number of sports, music and arts events - don't forget to look out for one of the numerous festivals.

DAY 7
Fly to Ayers Rock airport and transfer to Desert Gardens for two nights. Feel the full majesty of this mystical site, sacred to the ancient traditions of indigenous Aborigines, marvel at the mysterious flora and fauna that flourish in the Outback and gaze at the canopy of the star-spangled desert sky.

DAY 9
Fly to the isolated city of Darwin in the unique ‘Top End’, where European and Aboriginal lifestyles meet. Make your way to the Novotel Darwin Atrium for an overnight stay.

DAY 10
Leave on a short escorted tour to explore magnificent Kakadu National Park, with its stunning rock paintings and prolific wildlife, and the vast Arnhem Land - a huge tract of protected Aboriginal country infused with the heritage and lore of these ancient people.

DAY 11
Return to the Novotel Darwin Atrium for an overnight stay and another chance to enjoy the city’s cosmopolitan café culture.

DAY 12
Fly to Cairns and transfer to the Holiday Inn Cairns for a three night stay. This lovely tropical city is the gateway to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Also on your doorstep lies the unspoilt rainforest at Kuranda and the scenic delights of the Atherton Tablelands, including towering waterfalls and the famous Curtain Fig Tree.

DAY 15
Complete your incredible journey with three nights in fabulous Sydney, with its famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, staying at the Four Points by Sheraton. Immerse yourself in the world-class museums, laid-back lifestyle and fantastic city beaches. Be sure to visit a selection of the city's renowned restaurants and bars.

DAY 18
Depart for Sydney airport or choose to extend your stay.