6 Days: Southern Ocean & Golden Outback Explorer [ST-SD37]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Perth (1 Night), Albany (1 Night), Esperance (2 Nights), Hyden (1 Night)
  • All Flights are not included (can be added at an additional cost).
  • Car Hire - 6 Day Rental, Pick up and Drop off in Perth
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All 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) - Flight into Perth, Own Arrangements

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

(Day 1) - 6 Day Car Rental

Discover Australia as you travel by rental car for six days.

As part of your vacation self-drive Australia and explore our stunning landscapes, coastlines, regional towns and wildlife. Stop and meet the locals, maybe enjoy a counter meal at a local Aussie pub, or relax on the beach while sampling some takeaway fish & chips from the local deli or servo. During one of your rest stops try to spot a kangaroo, emu or even a Koala in the wild.

Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that the Australians drives on the left hand side of the road.

Base rate only paid by About Australia. GPS, Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Days 1 to 2) - 1 Night Accommodation in Perth

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

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is located in the heart of the city of Perth, only a few metres from the Murray and Hay Street shopping malls. The hotel includes a restaurant, bar, and Internet access. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, free tea and coffee making facility, radio, and ensuite bathroom. Perth has a reputation amongst travelers to be a friendly city on the Swan River. Travel some short miles to Fremantle, a modern and vibrant counterpart. From outdoors to indoor, the fabulous range of Perth and suburban shops will satisfy even the most particular of traveler. Western Australia offers you a unique vacation experience.

Photo Credit: Western Australia

Optional Tour (Not Included), Hop On Hop Off Explorer Bus

Ready to explore? Hop on board and enjoy the ride. See all the sights that Perth has to offer on this unique open top double decker bus tour.

Today you’ll be able to explore a new city without any of the hassle of finding your way around. Enjoy full commentary as your friendly driver takes you on a tour of Perth.
Your double decker tour bus offers a bird’s eye view of Kings Park and Perth’s top attractions. Take great photographs from the upper deck viewing platform, no glass windows to spoil the view!
If you stay on all the way round, the tour takes approximately 1 & 3/4 hrs to complete. Or you can use the hop on hop off facility and make a whole day of it! There are 2 buses on the tour so you are never more than an hour from the next one. Your ticket price also includes discounts to Perth’s major tourist attractions!

Highlights Include:
Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Northbridge, Crown Perth, The WACA, The Bell Tower, The Perth Mint , The Swan River, Museum & Art Gallery of WA , Perth Town Hall, & Perth City Shopping Malls

Monday to Friday
1:30pm-3:00pm or 3:30pm-5:00pm

Optional Return Ferry (Not Included) - Perth to Rottnest Island

Board the ferry for a fun filled day at Rottnest Island!

Located just 19km off the mainland, Rottnest Island offers endless possibilities!

Interested in Australia’s unique wildlife? How about a selfie with the world famous and adorable Quokkas? You can also meet Rottnest’s colony of New Zealand Fur Seals. The island is also home to a one of a kind Nature Reserve that is widely regarded as one of Western Australia’s “best kept secrets.” You can also view the annual migration of Humpback Whales from September – November.

The Island’s breathtaking natural beauty has to be one of Rottnest’s biggest assets. This vast natural playground has over 63 beaches and 20 bays so there is a high possibility of finding a secluded beach all to yourself. Rottnest is teeming with more than 135 species of vibrant tropical fish and 20 species of coral. Snorkelling is the best way to explore Rottnest’s underwater playground. Be sure to check out the underwater snorkel trail located at Parker Point.

Jump onboard a 90 minute Rottnest Adventure Tour or afternoon Whale or Seal Encounter and explore the Island by sea. Or feel the wind in your hair as you use pedal power to explore the Island’s many treasures by bike. With cars excluded on the Island, bike riding is the most popular and fun way to explore the Island. Take to the air on a 10 minute joy flight or visit the Rottnest Bike and Hire store to grab your very own Surfboard or Stand-up Paddle Board for the day.

During your day on Rottnest you can also explore ship wrecks and the island’s fascinating and colourful history. Take a tour up to Oliver Hill on the Captain Hussey, sit back on a Discovery Coach Tour or view relics at the Rottnest Museum, Lomas Cottage and Pilot Boat House. Keep an eye out for the yellow shirt clan, the Rottnest Volunteer Guides, offering an array of informative walking tours.

With all it has to offer, Rottnest Island is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip!

Insider's Tip: Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo is Australia’s best small zoo and located just 5 minutes from the Perth CBD.

Touted as one of the most diverse zoos in the Southern Hemisphere, the Perth Zoo almost always has something new to see. The zoo is open year round from 9am to 5pm and entrance fees are as follows (all prices in AUD): $22 for adults & $11.30 for children. In addition to Keeper Talks, you can ride in the electric-powered zebra buggy, go on a free walking tour or ride on the zoo’s historical carousel. This Perth attraction is an excellent way to spend a day without spending a lot of money.

Getting There
By Bus: From Perth CBD Bus No. 30 and 31 stop right in front of the Zoo weekdays or weekends, leaving regularly from the Esplanade Bus-Port. Bus #34 stops behind the Zoo and leaves from the Wellington Street Bus-port. From the ‘Causeway’ (Victoria Park) Bus #730 and #731 stop at the Zoo. For further information on bus timetables, routes and prices please call Transperth information on 13 62 13 or visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au where you can search for the best route for you.
By Train: Currently, the easiest way to visit Perth Zoo by train is to transfer at the Esplanade Bus-port (Train Platform 1) to Bus # 31 (Bus Stand E4) which makes Perth Zoo one of its first stops. The bus stops right out front of the ticket office. The reverse applies when you want to go home.

Photo Credit: Perth Zoo

Optional Tour (Not Included), Freemantle Explorer River Cruise

Take an amazing scenic cruise to Fremantle along the beautiful Swan River, where you will be able to explore the Cappuccino Strip, Fishing Boat Harbour and the many sights and museums Fremantle has to offer.

On your cruise you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Perth, Freemantle, and the surrounding area through your knowledgeable captain’s expert live commentary. Once you arrive in Freemantle you may enjoy a coffee on the famed Cappuccino Strip, fish and chips at the Fishing Boat Harbour or try a boutique beer at one of the lively pubs. Enjoy your leisurely cruise back to Perth on the Swan River and enjoy the rest of your evening discovering the city.
  
Operates
Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Departs Perth at 11:15am and returns to Perth at 5:00pm
Does not operate on Christmas Day, December 26 – 27, New Year’s Day, January 26, April 25, June 12, October 2.
 
Inclusions
– 5.5 hour Fremantle cruise
– Expert commentary from the captain

Need to Know
– Food and beverages are not included, but will be availble along the tour for purchase
– Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes
– Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforseen circumstances

Upgrades
– Dinner and beverage cruises

Optional Day Tour (Not Included), Indigenous Heritage Park Tour

Could you survive if you got lost in the outback?

Pick up some great bush survival tips and learn about Australia’s indigenous culture with personalized guided tour of Western Australia’s most visited location Kings Park and Botanic Garden!

Join your Aboriginal guide for a snapshot of traditional life in the South West of Western Australia.
During the tour you’ll learn about the culture and life of Perth’s first people the Wadjuk. Your experienced guide will highlight local plants and their use for bush food and medicine. Also today you will have the unique experience of listening to the Ancient Dreamtime story of the Nyoongar people.

Monday to Friday
1:30pm-3:00pm or 3:30pm-5:00pm

Optional Evening Event (Not Included, Progressive Dinner - 4 Hr

Tonight you’ll walk and dine down St Georges Terrace in the heart of Perth. Enjoy three delicious courses with a beverage to compliment in some of the finest venues in the city.

Starting at the Perth Town Hall, the traditional centre of town, and finishing in the King Street precinct, the tour lasts 3.5 in a fun, relaxed and sophisticated environment. This will truly be a mouth-watering night to remember.

Over the course of the evening, in a small group, you will visit 3 of the newer restaurants to indulge in an entrée, main course and desert, plus drinks, amongst historic settings including the Public Trustee building, St Georges house and the home of Perth’s first Bishop, Matthew Hale.

While strolling between venues, you will be guided to interested spaces to discover art, heritage buildings and stories of some influential people in Perth’s history before arriving for another course prepared by some of Perth’s best chef’s.

Please advise of any dietary requirement in advance. All effort will be made to accommodate

Optional Tour (Not Included) - 4WD Pinnacles, Koalas & Sand Dunes

The extraordinary ancient rock formations that make up the Pinnacles are located about a three-hour drive north of Perth near the coastal town of Cervantes. Join on a guided walk through the Pinnacles desert and marvel at the limestone pillars created by forces of nature.

After stopping at Caversham Wildlife Park in the Swan Valley to view koalas and hand feed kangaroos, travel to the lobster fishing town of Cervantes for lunch. Stop at the Lobster Shack for an informative talk about the lobster industry, followed by a self-guided tour through the purpose built factory.

Then it’s onwards to the mystical Pinnacles Desert for an easy paced walk through the fascinating landscape where you will be in awe at the sheer size and number of these spires. Afterwards enjoy a thrilling experience of sand boarding and 4-wheel driving over the vast sand dunes of Lancelin. Full Day Tour.

Operates
Daily
Times
Departs 8:00am from Perth, Returns 7:30pm
Includes
– Lunch
– Experienced Driver Guide
– Comprehensive Commentary
– Travel in an Air-conditioned Coach
Need to Know
Low level of fitness required, however this tour is unsuitable for pregnant women, infants and guests with back problems.

Photo Credit: Western Australia

(Day 2) - Self Drive from Perth to Albany

Today you will drive south from Perth to Albany and begin your self drive adventure. Drive time from Perth to Albany is approximately 4.5 hours (260 miles).

Heading south out of Perth, take the Kwinana Freeway to join the Albany Highway. Enjoy a stop along the way for a lunch break in one of the quaint towns along the way.

Upon arrival into Albany, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring!

Albany boasts a rich history. Get a great introduction to the region’s past and heritage by taking a 30-minute walk along the Amity Trail. You can also visit Discovery Bay, home to the historic whaling station museum. Or follow the ANZACs’ extraordinary stories from Gallipoli, the Middle East and the Western Front through the state-of-the-art National Anzac Centre.
If exploring the unique landscape of the area is appealing to you then you are in luck! The Albany region is home to one of the most dramatic natural coastlines in Western Australia – Torndirrup National Park. Make a point to see iconic features such as The Gap, Natural Bridge, & The Blowholes. This coastal park is a top whale watching spot between July and October, when migrating humpback and southern right whales gather here to rest and play.

(Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Albany

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

With a range of units consisting of standard, deluxe and king suites, your accommodation offers tastefully appointed rooms with all the comforts of home. The rooms are spacious with all modern amenities.

A feature is the on-site Restaurant offering gourmet meals at reasonable prices. Attractive and colourful, it’s more than a restaurant, it is a meeting place for those who enjoy scrumptious food and fine wine. Fully licensed, the wine list is among the best in Albany. The Restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner, room service breakfast and dinners are also available, cooked just the way you like them.

The area surrounding Albany is rich in natural beauty. The majestic Stirling Ranges and the Mt Barker wine region to the north, the dramatic Southern Ocean coastline and the many gorgeous small rural towns such as Denmark, all go to make the area a treat to explore. Albany is set on the beautiful King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour. It is the oldest town on the west coast. Whale and dolphin spotting from the coastal cliffs is an exhilarating pastime.

(Day 3) - Self Drive from Albany to Esperance

Today you continue your self-drive heading east from Albany to Esperance. Drive time is approximately 5 hours (300 miles).

On your journey from Albany to Esperance today, you’ll stop in the middle to take in the sights of Fitzgerald River National Park. Take a two-hour drive east of Albany to Bremer Bay. This is the western gateway into the Park, said to be one of the world’s biodiversity, wildflower and bush walking hotspots.

Several drives and walking trails lead you through unique wilderness landscapes where almost 20% of Western Australia’s plant species thrive, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
If you’re visiting between July and October, an absolute MUST SEE is Point Ann – one of just three special locations in Australia where southern right whales come to calve in large numbers.

Make your way north on to Quinn’s Road to rejoin the South Coast Highway, heading east to Esperance. After checking in at your accommodation, end your day with a sunset stroll along Tanker Jetty or join the locals for a spot of fishing.

(Days 3 to 5) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Esperance

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

Your Esperance accommodation looks out directly at the western end of a group of 105 islands known as the Recherche Archipelago. The 3.5 star accommodation locates you across the road from stunning views and the foreshore beach.

Facilities include:

On Site Restaurant and Bar
Free WiFi
Solar Heated Pool
Guest Laundry Facilities

Optional Tour (Not Included) - Cape Le Grand - Half Day

Within 45 minutes drive of Esperance, this grand park features sweeping heathlands, rugged coastal peaks and white sandy beaches voted the best in Australia.

A must do for every Esperance Visitor!

Cape Le Grand National Park’s rolling heathlands are home to pygmy possums, western grey kangaroos and a diversity of colourful wildflowers including dense thickets of showy banksia. Don’t forget to say “G’day” to the Lucky Bay beach Kangaroos!

This tour includes up to 50km of beach driving along LeGrand Beach en route to having morning/afternoon tea on the world class Lucky Bay beach. As leisurely or as actioned packed as you wish – swimming, sand boarding and a stunning 46 metre rock climb (in vehicle).

National Park Entry Fees included.

(Day 5) - Self Drive from Esperance to Hyden - Stop at Wave Rock!

Today you continue your self-drive heading northwest to visit Hyden. Drive time is approximately 4 hours (240 miles).

Today you’ll explore the Wheatbelt of Western Australia. Starting out heading west on Hwy 1, you’ll turn north and continue the adventure on Hwy 40.

Just before the town of Hyden, You’ll make a right turn onto Lovering Road, then a right onto Wave Rock Road.

Walking through a carpet of wildflowers, under a bright blue sky, listening to the wind in the Sheoak trees, you will come across a magnificent, prehistoric rock formation. You will marvel at the size and shape, eroded by the weather over millions and millions of years. This is Wave Rock.

Climb to the top and enjoy the view of the surrounding farm land, shiny salmon gum-forests, and the beautiful salty scrubby bush. This is Australia at its finest. Take a short walk to Hippo’s Yawn, offering spectacular views of the orchids and wildflowers in spring.

After exploring Wave Rock, make the short trek up the road to Hyden – a quaint town, nestled amongst the Salmon Gums.

Enjoy a brewed coffee and home made food at the Wildflower Shoppe Cafe. Here you will also find the entrance to the Wildlife Park, home to koalas, wombats, white kangaroos and an array of beautifully coloured birds.

(Days 5 to 6) - 1 Night Accommodation in Hyden

Travel to your accommodation in Hyden where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Your three star accommodation lies between Esperance and Perth making it a perfect location to stop and explore all that Australia’s Golden Outback has to offer.

Facilities Include:

On Site Restaurant
Swimming Pool
Guest Lounge with Fireplace, Games, Piano & Guitar

(Day 6) - Self Drive from Hyden to Perth

Today head up the road on your self-drive from Hyden to Perth. Drive time is approximately 4 hours (224 miles).

On your drive today from Hyden to Perth, be sure to stop in the historic town of York for lunch. Nestled on the banks of the Avon River in the gently rolling farmlands of the beautiful Avon Valley, the district offers unique insights into Western Australia’s rich and colourful past, both before and following European settlement in 1831. York was the first inland settlement in Western Australia, and the town has maintained a vibrant spirit among its many Victorian and Federation buildings.

After lunch continue on to Perth following the Great Eastern Highway. Perhpas stop to stretch your legs in Mundaring in the Darling Ranges. Home to WA’s first conservation area, John Forrest National Park, it offers the perfect spot to stretch your legs while taking in striking granite outcrops and waterfalls.

Just a short 45 minute drive from Mundaring takes you into Perth.

(Day 6) - Departure Flight exiting Perth, Own Arrangements

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.