12 Days: Outback Australia, Alice, Reef & Sydney [ST-37]
Australia Vacations

Book By: April 30, 2024

Starting at
$4,228
Per Person
View Details
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Alice Springs (2), Ayers Rock (2), Cairns (3)
  • US Domestic Flights not included per your request
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Cairns to Los Angeles via Brisbane (Not included, but can be included upon request)
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Alice Springs, Ayers Rock to Cairns
  • Shuttle Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Alice Springs Airport to Accommodation, Ayers Rock Accommodation to Airport, Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours Included - Sydney: Sydney Opera House Tour; Alice Springs: Travel by Deluxe Coach from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock / Uluru; Ayers Rock: National Park Entry Fee, Sunrise Tour; Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Snorkeling
  • 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) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Sydney (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel to Australia on your vacation. After departing from Los Angeles you will be provided with an evening meal. You can relax, have a drink, watch a movie, review your itinerary or just rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don’t worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.

(Day 2) - 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 2 to 5) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your Sydney Accommodation where you will stay for 3 nights.

Your hotel on the edge of the City and CBD offers you the perfect position to explore. Superb Sydney restaurants, theatres, lively nightclubs and a great range of shops from designer stores to funky boutiques are within easy walking distance from the hotel. Major attractions including Darling Harbour, Entertainment Quarter, Sydney Cricket Ground and the Sydney Football Stadium, are easily accessible from your Sydney hotel, as well as being close to more family orientated attractions with the Sydney Aquarium & Wildlife Park and the Sydney Imax Cinema nearby.

(Day 2) - 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.

(Days 3 to 4) - Free Days 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.

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

Insider's Tip: Hop on the Sydney Explorer bus to explore the city

Experience all the excitement of Sydney, Australia’s famous harbour city, and the capital of NSW with the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Explorer – Sydney’s only Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus service.

The Sydney and Bondi Tours are included with this pass. The Sydney tour features 23 stops and the Bondi tour features 11 stops.

As well as Sydney’s glorious harbour and stunning beaches the city offers a multi cultural lifestyle, exuberant festivals and events, a dynamic food scene and a striking cityscape of modern and colonial architecture.

Don’t miss a thing aboard this open-top double-decker bus tours with 34 stops in Sydney and Bondi Beach. Plan your own itinerary and visit the landmarks and attractions at your own pace. Buses run frequently so rejoining the tour is easy! Plus, you’ll receive a booklet with travel information, detailed maps, discount vouchers and much more!

Be sure to bring your camera to capture all the excitement!

Operates
Daily
9:00am to 4:00pm

Includes
– Hop on Hop off tour
– Sydney & Bondi Beach routes
– 1-day validity
– Up to 34 stops
– Digital commentary
– Free earphones onboard
– Free wifi

Need to Know
Fully flexible tour. Please bring money for lunch.

Upgrades
2-Day Explorer w/Cruise

(Day 5) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

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

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

(Day 5) - Shuttle Transfer, Alice Springs Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Alice Springs

Travel to your accommodation 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 6) - Free Day to Explore Alice Springs

Visit One of Alice Springs’ many attractions.

A Town Like Alice : Join your tour guide for a half day tour highlighting the must see sights of Alice Springs including the Royal Flying Doctors Service, Telegraph Station & Reptile Park.

Ballooning Alice Springs: Join your tour guide for an early morning balloon trip which will give you an idea of the remoteness, scenery and wildlife of the Australian Outback. Including breakfast.

Helicopter Flight: Add a little helicopter to your holiday! Alice Springs Helicopters offer fun-filled flights, packed with surprises and stunning scenery. The flight takes you to Heavitree Gap, over the Todd River, desert ranges and the township of Alice Springs. This 20 minute flight featuring majestic Mt. Gillen, the MacDonnell Ranges and Heavitree Gap. Plus ask about our magical mystery tour! Free transfers and flight certificate included.

(Day 7) - Day Tour, Travel by Deluxe Coach from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock / Uluru

Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) aboard a luxury coach.

Getting to Uluru from Alice Springs is an easy, scenic ride through Australia’s red outback. Take in the rugged desert landscapes, passing through the reds and oranges of the MacDonnell Ranges. While traveling through this remote country, your friendly Driver will share informative and entertaining commentary. Learn about the natural and geological history of the region. Hear about the traditional customs and stories of the local Aboriginal people, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna. Learn about native animals such as the Perentie monitor lizard, the thorny devil and the red kangaroo. There is time for a stop for a quick break then view flat-topped Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Operates
May – August 2023: Daily; September – November 2023: Tuesday – Sunday; December – February 2024: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; March 2024: Tuesday – Sunday
Departs Alice Springs at 7:00am, Arrives in Ayers Rock at 1:00pm (approx.)

Includes
– Pickup from Alice Springs hotel
– Informative commentary

Need to Know
Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and snacks.

(Days 7 to 9) - 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.

Your 4 1/2 Star vacation accommodation is centrally located to all resorts and Australia touring facilities and offers a range of stylish accommodations, from shaded poolside rooms to the magnificent deluxe rooms overlooking the desert. You can relax from your travel in the comfort of your own private balcony or courtyard, or unwind in the hotel’s refreshing pool, sipping cocktails. It’s only a short stroll to the resorts numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. Its spectacular display of colours across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert turns your vacation into a memorable event.

Airport shuttle transfers included.

A national park fee is required to enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This fee has been included in your itinerary cost. This Park Entry Pass is valid for 3 Days.

Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park Entry Fee valid for 3 consecutive days

(Day 8) - Half Day Tour, Sunrise Tour

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. Enjoy a warming cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate as the dawn creeps across the desert plain and lights up Uluru.

Afterwards, on the 28 mile 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.

Operates
Daily
Departs an hour before sunrise, Returns 10:45am-11:30am (season dependent)

Includes
– Return transfers
– Tea, coffee and cookies at sunrise and snacks.
– Experienced driver/guide
– Comprehensive commentary

Need to Know
National Park Pass to be purchased separately. 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. Moderate level of fitness required.

Photo Credit: Tourism NT / Jack Morris

(Day 9) - Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the Red Centre at Ayers Rock to Cairns.

(Day 9) - 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 9 to 12) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 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 10) - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Snorkeling

Indulge in an all-inclusive snorkeling and diving tour for a day on the outer reef.

Enjoy a delightful 90-minute voyage to the outer reef, where you can savor a scrumptious breakfast and receive a comprehensive briefing on the day’s activities. Following the morning’s exhilarating diving and snorkeling adventure, you have the option to unwind on the sundeck or actively participate in the Citizen Science project, contributing to vital research aimed at preserving the reef’s ecosystem.

Lunchtime brings a delectable tropical feast crafted by the talented in-house chefs, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers. While you bask in the leisurely lunch experience, your skipper will navigate the vessel to a new reef location, getting ready for the afternoon’s diving and snorkeling sessions. Wrap up your day by inputting your remarkable sightings into the photo database, all while savoring a well-deserved beverage accompanied by a platter of exquisite cheese and cold cuts.

Operates
Wednesday – Sunday, Except Christmas and New Year’s Day
Departs 7:30am, Returns 4:00pm (approx.)

Includes
– Transfers to and from Cairns city accommodation
– Delicious chef-prepared meals
– All snorkelling and scuba diving – open deck (Introductory or Certified Dive included)
– Waterproof, bone conducting headsets for underwater commentary
– Take home drink bottle
– All food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks on return journey
– Tea, coffee, and water fountain always available for self-service
– Environmentally friendly plant-based wetsuits and all dive/snorkel equipment
– Taxes & Marine Park Levy

Need to Know
Must be at least 12 years old to participate. Please bring swimwear, a hat, easy slip on shoes, sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs. For guests over the age of 65, a dive medical is requested. Certified divers with medical conditions may need to provide a dive medical as well. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

(Day 11) - Free Day to Explore Cairns

Take the day and explore what could be considered the capital of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns!

A major outlet to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest amongst its many attractions, the tropical paradise of Cairns is sure to enchant you. With many area activities centrally located there’s enough to occupy everyone in the family because Cairns literally has it all! Have a visit to the Esplanade where you can experience all walks of life and make memories. With a nightlife that caters to singles and families alike you’re visit will be filled with so many things to do, so take a deep breath and have fun!

Insider's Tip: The Esplanade in Cairns

Experience the leisurely atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade in Cairns!

With so many activities available The Esplanade has always been a focal point for this city. This is a place that literally has everything! Take a stroll and do some bird watching on the boardwalk but as you enjoy the views don’t forget to stop off at Foreshore Promenade for a bite to eat at the many available restaurants. Access to The Lagoon is easy here which is set overlooking the Barrier Reef and Trinity inlet and features all year free swimming where you can take a dip in this filtered saltwater lagoon. Let the kids can play in the sandy edges and in the shallow waters while you lounge on the semi-shaded timber decks. For the kids, don’t miss out on the Trinity Bay foreshore playground “Muddy” with equipment for all ages. For the older kids, stop off at the Skate Park to see some skaters and BMXers in action! Whether you decide to take a morning jog, fly a kite or just relax in the large grassy areas for some lunch you will surely enjoy the tropical lifestyle!

If you happen to be in Cairns on a Saturday be sure to check out the Weekend Markets which feature only locally made arts and crafts, clothing and much more. While you’re there listen out for the live music and fun street characters. The market gets into full swing on the promenade (just by the lagoon) every Saturday between 8am – 4pm.

Lagoon Hours: All Year, 6am-9pm
Closed Wednesdays until midday for maintenance

(Day 12) - 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 12) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 12) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Mid-day Departure from Brisbane, In-flight Dinner and Movie with arrival in the USA. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.

 
Detailed Pricing
Approximate Pricing Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy Permitted USA Departure Dates & Fare Rules
Land Content Only $5,067 $7,082 International return flights from the USA are not included. Please see detailed itinerary (above) for more information on inclusions. Itinerary can commence any day (subject to availability).
Special (Economy Class) $6,254 $8,268 2024-04-01 00:00:00 - 2024-12-05 00:00:00
USA Departures: 1 APR - 28 JUN, 24 JUL - 5 DEC. Expires 30 APR 24
International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable, Non-Changeable. Other Dates may also apply. For details phone Toll-Free: (888)359 2877
Basic (Economy Class) $7,003 $9,017 Basic: May 1 - Jun 8 & Jul 24 - Sep 21, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Shoulder (Economy Class) $7,210 $9,224 Shoulder: Feb 1 - Apr 30, Jun 9 - Jul 23 & Sep 22 - Dec 8, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Peak (Economy Class) $7,727 $9,742 Peak: Dec 9, 2022 - Jan 31, 2023. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Premium (Economy Class) $9,979 $11,994 Premium Economy Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Change and Cancellation Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Business Class $11,588 $13,602 Business Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
First Class $26,180 $28,195 First Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.

This package can easily be customized to suit your preferences.