12 Days: Ayers Rock, Darwin, Kakadu and Sydney [BU-G31S]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Ayers Rock (2 Nights), Alice Springs (1), Darwin (2), Kakadu (2), Darwin (1), Sydney (2)
  • US Domestic Flights and International Flights not included per your request
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Alice Springs to Darwin, Darwin to Sydney
  • Shuttle Transfers - Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport, Darwin Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation
  • Day Tours Included - Ayers Rock: Field of Light Pass, Piti Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas & Cultural Center, Ayers Rock to Alice Springs via Deluxe Coach
  • Overnight Tours Included - Darwin: 3 Day/2 Night Kakadu & Twin Falls Adventure
  • 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)
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Itinerary Details
Day 1-International Flight to Ayers Rock via Sydney (Not Included - Ask About Current Flight Deals)

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

(Days 2 to 4) - 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 2) - Evening Event, Field of Light Pass (When Available)

As darkness falls, the desert surrounding Uluru transforms into a magical field of light which was specially designed by British artist Bruce Munro.

The exhibition, aptly named Tali Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or “looking at lots of beautiful lights” in local Pitjantjatjara is Munro’s largest work to date.

Overwhelming in size, covering more than seven football fields, it invites immersion in its fantasy garden of 50,000 spindles of light, the stems breathing and swaying through a sympathetic desert spectrum of ochre, deep violet, blue and gentle white.

The tour finishes with a relaxing ride back to your accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Departs 30 minutes after sunset, Returns 2 hours later (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers to Ayers Rock accommodation
– Entry into the Field of Light

Need to Know
– Very limited wheelchair accessibility. Assistance available on request
– Child strollers are not allowed
– This is a self-guided tour
– Please wear long pants and toe-covered shoes
– Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances

Upgrades
Access to the raised viewing area with views of Uluru

(Day 3) - Day Tour, Piti Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas & Cultural Center

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 4) - 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 4 to 5) - 1 Night 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 1 night.

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 5) - Shuttle Transfer, Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 5) - Australian Domestic Flight, Alice Springs to Darwin

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

(Day 5) - Private Transfer, Darwin Airport to Accommodation

Private car transfer from the airport to your vacation accommodation.

(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Darwin

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

Located in the heart of Darwin, your accommodation combines sophisticated city chic with Darwin’s famous laid back, tropical culture. It is also a perfect base for travellers looking to explore NT’s stunning natural beauty and abundant local tourist attractions.

(Day 6) - Free Day to Explore Darwin

Visit one of Darwin’s many attractions.

Spend the day at one of these top Darwin attractions:

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory: The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is just 4 kms from the city centre and houses stunning permanent collections of Aboriginal art. It is also home to a Cyclone Tracey exhibition which details the tragic events of the 1974 Christmas Eve cyclone that devastated Darwin. The Museum’s oceanfront café serves good coffee and is also a popular choice for brunch.

Cullen Bay Marina: Cullen Bay Marina is a hotspot for harbour side dining. It includes a variety of eateries ranging from à la carte restaurants to sidewalk cafés. You can stroll along the beach or just sit and watch the sunset over the water. Many sunset cruises, dive boats and fishing charters operate from the marina.

Historic City Walk: Take a Historic City Walk that incorporates 17 historically significant sites and buildings on a stroll around the city. Included is the British Australian Telegraph house (Lyon’s Cottage), the Wharf Precinct, Myilly Point Historical Precinct and the new Parliament House. Itineraries are available from the Visitor Information Centre located in the city centre.

Photo Credit: Tourism Northern Territory

Insider's Tip: The Deckchair Cinema

During the dry season, spend an evening at Darwin’s fabulous outdoor cinema.

April to November the Darwin Film Society runs The Deckchair cinema below the southern end of the Esplanade. Watch a movie under the stars while reclining in a deckchair. There’s a licensed bar serving food or you can bring a picnic (no BYO alcohol). There are usually double features on Friday and Saturday nights.

Tickets: Adults: $24AUD & Children: $12AUD

Insider's Tip: Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

While in Darwin, visit the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.

This superb museum and gallery boasts beautifully presented galleries of Top End–centric exhibits. The Aboriginal art collection is a highlight, with carvings from the Tiwi Islands, bark paintings from Arnhem Land and dot paintings from the desert. An entire room is devoted to Cyclone Tracy , in a display that graphically illustrates life before and after the disaster. You can stand in a darkened room and listen to the whirring sound of Tracy at full throttle – a sound you won’t forget in a hurry.

The cavernous Maritime Gallery houses an assortment of weird and wonderful crafts from the nearby islands and Indonesia, as well as a pearling lugger and a Vietnamese refugee boat.

The museum has a good bookshop, and the Cornucopia Cafe is a great lunch spot with views over the sea.

Insider's Tip: Hop-on Hop-off Tour Tub Bus

Hop on and off the Tour Tub and experience Darwin’s Major Tourist Attractions. Darwin’s tropical atmosphere can be experienced in the open-air vehicle and experienced guides provide information about the city and its colorful history.

This unique city tour through Darwin departs from The Mall (Woolworth’s end) and select Darwin accommodations every 60 minutes starting at 9:00am until 4:00pm (last tour departs at 3:00pm). You can get on or off at any of the stops on the route. The tour takes in some of Darwin’s 10 most spectacular attractions. The bus travels every day (Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and New Years Day) and makes numerous stops. Buy your tickets onboard or at hotel reception (not available at all accommodations) for $30 AUD per person; the cost of your ticket includes admission to the World War II Oil Storage Tunnels.

Along the way you will stop at the following attractions: Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Fannie Bay Gaol, the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Indo Pacific Marine, the Australian Pearling Exhibition, the Darwin Wharf Precinct, the WWII Oil Tunnels and Aquascene (fish feeding at Doctors Gully).

To check pick up from your accommodation, call (08) 8985 6322.

(Days 7 to 9) - 3 Days / 2 Nights Kakadu & Twin Falls Adventure

The natural beauty of Kakadu National Park will take your breath away. Absorb the ancient rock art at Nourlangie and Ubirr, enjoy the Yellow Water Billabong and Guluyambi cruise. View the striking Jim Jim and Twin Falls and visit Arnhem Land.

Day 1: Darwin – Kakadu National Park

We travel on the Arnhem Highway and stop at Nourlangie, where your guide will lead a walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock art. After lunch we join our local guide for a cruise on the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Search for saltwater crocodiles and the colourful range of birdlife for which this region is renowned. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre and view the informative displays depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu.

Overnight in Kakadu

Day 2: Jim Jim and Twin Falls

Travel by 4WD to Jim Jim Falls. Take a 900 metre bushwalk to the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool, where there is time for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the spectacular scenery. Afterwards, travel to a scenic rest area for a picnic lunch. Then board boats to cruise up the first part of the gorge to Twin Falls. There is a 45 minute walk over slippery rocks with sand and rock ledges. Relax and enjoy spectacular scenery at the base of the falls. Today’s touring is only suitable for people with a good level of fitness.

Overnight in Kakadu

Day 3: Kakadu National Park – Farewell from Darwin

This morning stop at Ubirr to view Aboriginal rock art. Later, join the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the East Alligator River. An Aboriginal Guide will provide an insight into their culture, including local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain, as well as bush survival skills. Disembark on the Arnhem Land side of the river to see a display of traditional hunting and gathering implements before heading back downstream. Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre before returning to Darwin, where your short break concludes.

Departs: Daily 6.30am (Jun-Oct) from Darwin

Concludes: 7.30pm approximately on day 3 at Darwin

Inclusions: Experienced Driver Guide, Comprehensive commentary, Travel in an air-conditioned coach.

What to bring: Enclosed sturdy shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, camera, jacket in cooler months, swimwear and towel (if swimming)

(Days 9 to 10) - 1 Night Accommodation in Darwin

Travel to your accommodation in Darwin, Australia where you will be staying on vacation for 1 night.

Located in the heart of Darwin, your accommodation combines sophisticated city chic with Darwin’s famous laid back, tropical culture. It is also a perfect base for travellers looking to explore NT’s stunning natural beauty and abundant local tourist attractions.

(Day 10) - Private Transfer, Darwin Accommodation to Airport

Private car transfer from your vacation accommodation to the airport.

(Day 10) - Australian Domestic Flight, Darwin to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Darwin to Sydney.

(Day 10) - 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 10 to 12) - 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 11) - 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.

(Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 12) - International Flight to Hometown (Not Included - Ask About Current Flight Deals)

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

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