10 Days: Australian Reef, Outback & Sydney Special [BU-G42]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Cairns (2 Nights), Ayers Rock (2), Alice Springs (2), Sydney (2)
  • US Domestic Flights and International Flights are not included (Check Quote for Inclusion)
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Ayers Rock, Alice Springs to Sydney
  • Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation, Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport, Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours - Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Ayers Rock: Sunrise & Sunset Pass at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, Uluru / Ayers Rock to Alice Springs via Deluxe Coach; Alice Springs: A Town Like Alice; Sydney: Sydney Opera House Tour
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - Hometown to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Day 1 - International Flight - Los Angeles to Brisbane(Not Included) Ask About Current Flight Deals

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Brisbane.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

Day 2 - Australia Domestic Flight - Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

Day 2 - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

Days 2 to 4 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4.5 star accommodation combines contemporary decor with a tropical ambience. The magnificent location of this 176 room hotel is perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest or Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands. Other nearby highlights include: Cairns Casino, Marlin Jetty, the Esplanade and the Night Markets. Unwind with a cocktail by the pool or bar followed by a sumptuous meal at the award winning Bushfire Flame Grill.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator, television, broadband internet access, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: 24 hr reception, tour desk, wireless internet, Bushfire Flame Grill, bar, pool, business services on request, coin operated laundry on four floors, room service, laundry & dry cleaning.

Day 3 - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Today you’ll cruise onboard a luxury vessel to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, and not surprisingly the world’s most extensive coral reef.

The reef being just a few meters away from the waters surface, you will be able to explore all these wonders just by floating at the surface. Relax, breathe in your snorkel and be ready to discover a multitude of fishes, corals and other wildlife populating the reef.





Snorkeling is the easiest way to discover the Great Barrier Reef, it is as simple as breathing. If you have never snorkeled before, don’t worry, a briefing is held on board, explaining how to put and use the snorkelling gear. All of the snorkeling equipment you will require is supplied as part of your trip, including a wetsuit or stinger suit. Prescription masks are also available upon request.

Your trip out to the reef will take just 90 minutes, with five hours spent on the outer reef. We’ll select two of the best Great Barrier Reef snorkelling sites. These are chosen on a daily basis by the vessel Captains for the best variety and visibility according to the weather conditions.

There are 17 exclusive moorings on the Outer Great Barrier Reef at Norman, Saxon and Hastings reefs. This tour operator uses a wide variety of these to ensure a minimal environmental impact to the pristine coral formations we visit. The dive sites are frequented by myriads of tropical and Palegic Fish, Rays, Turtles, (friendly) Sharks and the ever popular diver friendly Maori Wrasse. There are swim throughs, wall and drift dives that will appeal to every level of diver experience.

Includes: Lunch (hot or cold tropical buffet options), Snorkel Equipment; Wetsuit and/or Lycra Suits; Prescription Masks (Subject to availability)

Optional Upgrades Include: Up to 3 SCUBA Dives; Introductory Scuba Diving

Day 4 - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

Day 4 - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Ayers Rock

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Ayers Rock (Uluru).

Days 4 to 6 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Ayers Rock

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia, the Red Centre, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

If you are looking to experience traditional hospitality of Australia, this 3 1/2 Star vacation accommodation offers comfortable, affordable rooms combined with quality service in relaxed surroundings. Relax from your travel by enjoying a beer, swap stories of your day’s adventures, or sing along with the nightly entertainment. Or maybe barbecue some of the delicacies of Australia on the do-it-yourself BBQ. At any rate, this vacation accommodation is a place where friendships are made and good times are had by all.

Airport shuttle transfers included.

Day 5 - Sunrise & Sunset Pass at Uluru and Kata Tjuta

Witness the stunning Uluru sunrise and sunset, venture out on the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta and discover the fascinating stories of Uluru on a guided base tour.

Sunrise/Morning
The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park.

The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

Sunset/Afternoon
Talk a short walk at the base of Uluru with your Driver Guide and view ancient paintings and hear stories of traditional Anangu life.

Then head off to the Uluru sunset viewing area. On arrival you’ll be served from a selection of Australian wines and nibbles.

You can just sit and relax or stroll around the area to find your own personal space to watch an amazing outback sunset.

Operates
Daily
Morning tour pick-ups are 1.5 hours before sunrise and returns approximately 11:00 – 11:30am, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal). Afternoon tour pick-ups are 2:30pm – 3:00pm and returns half an hour after sunset, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal).

Includes
– National Park Pass (Entry fee included – Valid for 3 consecutive days)
– Return Transfers to Accommodation
– Experienced Driver/Guide
– Comprehensive commentary
– Air conditioned coach

Need to Know
Full breakfast is not provided. Bringing snacks for breakfast is recommended. Please wear closed walking shoes and warm layers in cooler months. Bring your own water bottle, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.

Upgrades
BBQ Dinner

Photo: Tourism NT

Day 6 - Day Tour, Uluru / Ayers Rock to Alice Springs via Deluxe Coach - Full Day

Travel by luxury coach from Uluru to Alice Springs, Australia’s Red Centre.

Board the luxury coach early in the afternoon and travel east from Yulara via Curtin Springs and see Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance. This fascinating mesa, or flat-topped mountain, juts out of the surrounding desert plain bearing witness to a period of massive uplift, followed by eons of erosion.

Continue east to Erldunda before turning north on to the famous Stuart Highway and to the town at the very heart of the Red Centre, Alice Springs.

As you pass through the striking ‘Outback’ landscapes, your Driver/Guide will provide an informative and entertaining commentary.

Operates
Daily
Departs 12:30pm or 1:00pm (season dependent), Arrive 7:00pm or 7:30pm

Includes:
– One way luxury coach transfer from Ayers Rock to Alice Springs
– Experienced driver guide providing comprehensive commentary

Need to Know
At certain times of year, smaller vehicles may be utilized.

Days 6 to 8 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Alice Springs

Travel to your accomodation in the heart of Australia and the Outback, Alice Springs, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Alice Springs, Australia’s Oasis, is also known as the capital of the Outback and the most romantic country town in the world. It’s where the Arrernte Aboriginal tribal group has lived for 20,000 years and where pioneer men and women gave “tough” a new meaning. Whilst on your vacation, take advantage of the many attractions available in Alice Springs. Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Alice Springs School of the Air, Central Australian Aviation Museum, the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Old Stuart Town Gaol. Travel by coach or car to explore the unique scenery of Australia’s Outback and its magnificent monolith – Uluru.

Day 7 - Afternoon Tour, A Town Like Alice - Half Day

Visit the historical sites and some of the essential services delivered from Alice Springs to the community in this city highlights tour.

Tour the sights of ‘The Alice’ including The School of the Air. You will learn how children who cannot access schools are educated by radio, you may have the opportunity to listen to and observe actual lessons in progress on air. Stop at the historic Telegraph Station, which marks the original site of the first European settlement in Alice Springs. Visit the Royal Flying Doctors Service, where you will see how medical aid reaches those who live in the remote ‘outback’. You will also make a stop at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, where you can see up close and potentially touch the lizards and snakes of Central Australia’s semi-arid desert, such as the Perentie Lizard and the Thorny Devil. The tour concludes with a panoramic view of the township of Alice Springs and the MacDonnell Ranges from the top of Anzac Hill.

Operates
Monday, Tuesday, and Friday
Departs 1:45pm, Returns 6:00pm (approx.)

Includes
– Entry to the School of the Air
– Royal Flying Doctor Service
– Telegraph Station
– Alice Springs Reptile Centre
– Return hotel transfers
– Experienced local Driver Guide
– Comprehensive commentary

Need to Know
This tour requires a low level of fitness. Please wear comfortable weather appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Please bring a water bottle and snacks.

Upgrades
Add a tour of the Alice Springs Desert Park before your City Highlights tour.

Day 8 - Shuttle Transfer, Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation to the Airport in Alice Springs, Australia.

Day 8 - Australian Domestic Flight, Alice Springs to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the heart of the Outback, Alice Springs, to Sydney.

Day 8 - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Days 8 to 10 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your accommodation is located on George Street, right in the heart of the city, with easy access to major attractions such as Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, and all the shopping of the CBD.

Day 8 - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour)

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece. You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theater as well as the new Utzon room. You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour – a perfect photo opportunity.

Operates
Daily, Hourly 9am to 5pm
Does not operate Good Friday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day 2024

Includes
One hour guided experience.

Need to Know
This tour has 300+ stairs – Low Impact. It is strongly encouraged that you leave bags at your hotel and avoid bringing any large items to the Opera House (anything larger than an 8×10″ sheet of paper). No luggage or large bags accepted. Videoing is not allowed. There are plenty of photo opportunities — your tour guide will advise you if photos are not to be taken at any point.

Upgrades
-Add a lunch, dinner or performance to your tour.
-Upgrade your experience with a private, backstage, or architectural tour.

Day 9 - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sydney Harbour Cruise Express Pass

Enjoy this 2 day unlimited ferry pass to explore the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the magnificent attractions that surround it!

Discover Sydney the local way with this 2 day unlimited ferry pass to travel the harbor. Stops along the way include Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, Manly, Taronga Zoo, Clifton Gardens, and Shark Island. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring while you travel at your leisure soaking in the harbor air on your way to your next destination!

Hop off to enjoy these harbor attractions:
Circular Quay: Bounded by the Sydney Harbour Bridge and historic Rocks district to the west, and the Sydney Opera House and Botanic Gardens to the east, Circular Quay is a bustling ferry hub.
Taronga Zoo: Over 4,000 animals, including Australian native wildlife. Free daily seal and bird shows. Purchase the Zoo and Explorer combo and save.
Shark Island: It would be hard to find a more spectacular picnic spot. Stunning, 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour and a delightfully deserted national park for your own private getaway.
Watsons Bay: Local must-do `Watto’ is famous for its seafood, waterfront pubs, picnic spots, swimming beaches and spectacular headlands walks overlooking the Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
Manly Beach: You don’t have to swim at this iconic beach to soak up the atmosphere. Shop at the Corso, dine at waterfront cafés, find your favorite gelato flavor or take a nature walk.
Darling Harbour: Start or finish your day at Darling Harbour, surrounded by restaurants, nightclubs and hotels at King Street Wharf, Barangaroo and Cockle Bay.
Clifton Gardens: Clifton Gardens is a beachside oasis in the affluent Harbour suburb of Mosman. The netted beach, long jetty and gentle waves makes it perfect for picnics, swimming and snorkeling.

Operates
Daily
Hours: Sunday & Thursday 12:00pm-7:30pm, Friday & Saturday 12:00pm-10:00pm, Monday – Wednesday (Select dates & times)
Does not operate on Christmas, December 26 – 27, New Year’s Day, January 26, April 25, June 12, and October 2.

Includes
2 Day unlimited ferry pass to travel Sydney Harbour

Need to Know
– Guided commentary is available through smart phone app. Download the app through your smartphone prior to boarding. Must use your own headphones.
– Additional cost to enter Fort Dension, Taronga Zoo, and Shark Island (closed February 10, 2023 and February 22, 2023)
– Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

Upgrades
– Premium sightseeing tours
– Whale watching tours

Optional Lunch Cruise (Not Included) - Sydney Cruise Like a Local (4 Hours)

Treat yourself to one of Sydney Harbor’s most sensational lunch cruises! This small group cruise offers the experienced traveler a personalized service like no other. You’ll feel as if you are spending the day aboard your savvy local mate’s yacht while he shows you around his favorite spots.

Enjoy the company of a small group aboard a 52-foot motor yacht. Your personal captain and host will share the rich history of Sydney Harbor and its foreshore as you take in the sites of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the bays and coves of Sydney Harbor.

Enjoy a 3-course BBQ lunch with regional wines, local beers and 5-star service. Immerse yourself in all the activities that a private vessel offers including, swimming, fishing and kayaking – or sit back, relax on the expansive sunbed and do nothing at all.
 
Operates
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday except 18Dec-7Jan when the cruise operates daily.
Departs from Circular Quay at 12:30pm, Returns 4:30pm

Includes:
– Four-hour cruise
– 3 course BBQ lunch
– Regional wines and local beers
– On board activities such as swimming, fishing and kayaking
– Live commentary

Upgrades:
Can be booked on a private basis

Insider's Tip: Australian Opals

Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world’s precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. It is these contrasts that make opals a truly fascinating and unique gemstone, with no two opals appearing exactly the same. In the Middle Ages the Romans considered opal a stone that could provide great luck, as it was believed to possess all the virtues of Emeralds, Sapphires and Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be – “Excellence in service, quality and value.” So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!

Altman + Cherny
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm

Day 10 - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

Day 10 - International Flight, Sydney to Los Angeles (Not Included) Ask About Current Flight Deals

Travel by international air to your destination.

International air to your destination is not included in the starting price. If you requested international air, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Day 10 - Los Angeles to Hometown (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Packages by About Australia, a fully bonded and ARC Accredited travel company.