Sydney, Heron Island & Outback Tour [ST-1178A]
14 Days: Sydney, Heron Island & Outback Tour [ST-1178A]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Ayers Rock (2), Sydney (1), Heron Island (4), Brisbane (2)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Brisbane to Los Angeles
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Sydney, Sydney to Gladstone, Gladstone to Brisbane
  • Day Tours - Sydney: Opera House; Ayers Rock: Uluru Tour Pass and Sounds of Silence; Heron Island: Diving; Brisbane: Australia Zoo
  • Shuttle Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation (return), Brisbane Airport to Accommodation (return)
  • Ferry Transfers - Gladstone Airport to Heron Island (return)
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (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

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 accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights in your studio room apartment.

Just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport, your accommodation is conveniently located between Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD.

The friendly staff at your accommodation can attend to your every need with 24 hour guest reception. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at their signature restaurant.

Relax in a stylish and comfortable haven whilst being in close proximity to shopping at Westfield’s Pitt St Mall and Darling Harbour. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Pitt St towards Circular Quay to take in more of Sydney’s world famous sites- like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

(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.

(Day 2) - Day Tour, Opera House Tour

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 Theatre 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.


Upgrade to Opera House Tour & Tasting Plate Available

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Harbour Cruise Express (Hop on Hop off)

On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia with this unlimited full day pass, or take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

Hop On and Hop Off at up to seven famous harbour attractions with this unlimited full day pass, or simply take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

The Harbour Express stops at:
Fort Denison: The historic island and cafe in the middle of Sydney Harbour.
Taronga Zoo: Discover Australia’s amazing wildlife including koalas, platypus and kangaroos.
Shark Island: This island national park is the perfect destination for a BYO picnic lunch, complete with a small beach area for swimming.
Watson’s Bay: Home of Doyle’s famous seafood restaurant and only a short walk to beautiful harbour swimming beaches, HMAS Watson and headland parks.
Luna Park: Sydney’s famous fun park with rides and games, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from Milsons Point station.
Darling Harbour: Aquarium & Wildlife World, Australian Maritime Museum, shops, restaurants and only a short stroll or Monorail to Sydney Tower, Star City Casino, Powerhouse Museum and China Town.
Circular Quay: The Rocks historic precinct, weekend markets, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge pylon.

(Additional Fees apply for Park Entry to Fort Denison, Shark Island & Taronga Zoo).

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Harbour Bridgeclimb

Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all – the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbor city surrounds.

It is at this point that you not only have a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilarating and rewarding experience of reaching the top of the iconic Harbour Bridge.

When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you’ll remember forever – you’ve conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the harbor spread before you.

All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of your climb group.

Operates:
Daily, in all weather conditions (except in cases of extreme weather conditions like electrical storms or high winds).

Need to Know:
– Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing;
– Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings;
– No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb;
– Children ages 8 – 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb;
– Maximum of 14 people per group.

Times:
The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

Inclusions:
BridgeClimb cap;
Certificate of Achievement;
A complimentary Climb Group photo.

Photo Credit: BridgeClimb Sydney.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains Deluxe Day Tour - Full Day

The Blue Mountains Deluxe Day is a real journey into the heart of a unique World Heritage Region. From temperate rainforests to towering sandstone escarpments, you’ll see and experience it all. Let the landscape work its wonders and become part of you for a lifetime.

Upon departing from the city, you will travel directly to the Blue Mountains and your first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill Farm a working farm also home to Kangaroo, Emu, Wombat and Koala. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.

From Calmsley Hill you will continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. Visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus you will have the opportunity to enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by your guide.

Continuing on you will arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can’t help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.

Next you will be taken around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Boiler House Cafe. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views, you can enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea or coffee. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Please note that beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.

The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you’ll know why it’s one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you’re not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you’ll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness.

Then take a brief stop to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before traveling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4:30pm.

Operates

Daily.

Need to Know

This is a specialized small group tour with a maximum group size of 17 passengers.
Minimum of 2 guests required for tour departure.

Times

Pick-up from Sydney CBD hotel between: 7:00am – 7:30am.
Drop-off at Sydney CBD hotel between: 4:30pm – 5:00pm.
 
Inclusions

– Professional Guide
– Hotel pickup & drop off from Sydney CBD
– Small group touring
– Morning tea
– National Park Fees
– 2-Course Lunch (Beverages with meals are not included)
– Glass of Sparkling Wine
– Mt Tomah visit

Upgrades

Private Touring

Insider's Tip: Explorer Tour

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

Times
Sydney Tour: 1hr 45min end to end with 23 featured stops
First tour departs Circular Quay at 8:30am. Frequency every 20-30 mins
Bondi Tour: 1hr 30min end to end with 11 featured stops
First tour departs 9:30am. Frequency every 30 minutes

All services terminate at 7:30pm in peak season (Oct – April) and 6:30pm in off peak season (May – Sept).

Need to Know
– Frequency and tour times very according to season and traffic. Please check with the bud driver on your day to travel to confirm pick up and drop off times.

Inclusions
– 1-Day Hop-on-Hop Off Bus Pass for Sydney Route and Bondi Route with 34 stops including: Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, Kings Cross, Hyde Park, Maritime Museum, SeaLife Sydney Aquarium, Barangaroo, The Rocks, Australia Museum, Bondi Beach, Rose Bay & More!

Upgrades
Upgrade to a 2-Day Pass and receive a complimentary walking tour of Sydney’s laneways, bars, cafes and galleries.

Insider's Tip: The Rocks

Located on the Harbour just a stroll away from the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge is the place where Sydney itself began, The Rocks!



Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Business District, this unique village features a centre with more than 70 shops, boutiques and galleries with everything from hand-made puppets, vintage clothing and accessories, antiques, art supplies, jewelry and some of Australia’s finest arts and crafts.




If hunger takes over there are a myriad of places to eat, from some of the finest restaurants to quaint cafes and casual eateries with many offering stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. If quenching a thirst is what you’re after don’t forget to stop off at one of the 13 Heritage pubs serving local wines and beers!

On Saturdays and Sundays, be sure to check out the market held at the northern end of George Street. Perfect for gifts and souvenir shopping, it has more than 150 stalls selling quality crafts, home wares, jewelry and Australian-designed goods, all under a unique sail-like canopy.

With the transport to The Rocks serviced by the Explorer and just a five minute walk from the Circle Quay it is easy to get here. The Sydney Visitors Centre on the corner of Argyle & Playfair Streets at The Rocks: open 9.30am – 5.30pm every day of the year (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). Opening hours may vary on some public holidays.

Photo Credit: Tourism New South Wales

Insider's Tip: The Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is the nation’s leading zoological garden, featuring Australia’s finest collection of native animals and a diverse collection of exotic species.

What makes Taronga something special is its location. It is situated on elevated land along the waterfront, in one of the most beautiful vantage points on Sydney Harbour overlooking Sydney Cove, the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Taronga Zoo is approximately 12 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay and the CBD. Ferries depart Circular Quay, every quarter past and quarter to the hour and can be purchased at your own expense.

As you zigzag your way along the paths among the animal enclosures, you are able to enjoy magnificent harbour views. The Taronga Zoo has its own jetty and you are able step off the boat and walk directly into the zoo. It is always best to start your tour of the Zoo from the top entrance. That way you’ll be walking downhill facing the harbor. You’ll then be continually surprised as you turn a corner and catch a different vista of the horizon. Then, when you reach the bottom you can catch the Zoo Sky Safari chair lift to take you to the top again and begin your downhill trek along a different path.

Sky Safari cable car operates between the Zoo wharf and the Top Entrance from 9:30am to 5:00pm daily.

Operates

Daily.

Need to Know

Sky Safari cable car operation is subject to weather and maintenance periods.

Times

Taronga Zoo opening hours:

Winter hours (May 1 – August 31) 9:30am to 4:30pm.
Summer hours (September 1 – April 30) 9:30am – 5:00pm.

Inclusions

– General admission entry to Taronga Zoo.
– Use of Sky Safari cable car.

(Days 5) - Shuttle Transfer - Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Days 5 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Sydney to Ayers Rock

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Ayers Rock, the Red Centre of the country.

(Days 5 to 7) - 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.

(Days 5 & 6) - Day Tours, Uluru Tour Pass

Explore the fascinating surroundings of Australia’s Red Centre.

Day 1 – Sunset/Afternoon:
Your experienced driver guide will give you an overview of the fascinating history of Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park as you make your way to Walpa Gorge, a lush desert haven for plants and animals. The gentle but rocky track will lead you into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen shrubs known as Spearwood. Time to 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 Red Centre sunset.

Day 2 – Sunrise/Morning:
Enjoy tea or coffee and be inspired by an incredible view through stunning desert landscape as the sun rises over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. From the viewing platform it is possible to see way into the distance, providing an ideal photo opportunity. After the amazing sunrise and a relaxing morning tea, you will join a tour around the base of Uluru learning details on its geology and incredible history. Last on the morning tour is a visit to the Mutitjulu Waterhole and the Uluru – Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.

Includes National Park Entry Pass

(Day 6) - Day Tour - Sounds of Silence

Enjoy a unique gourmet desert dining experience at Uluru, the spiritual heart of Australia’s Red Centre.

Forty minutes before sunset, travel into the desert where a didgeridoo welcome awaits you.

As the sun sinks behind the domes of Kata Tjuta (Olgas), enjoy a selection of fine beverages and sample delicious Outback canapés. At sunset, enjoy a special bush-blend vegetable soup followed by choice cuts of Australian delicacies, including kangaroo, emu, crocodile and barramundi, all served with fresh salads and followed by a selection of desserts.

Then relax as an astronomer guides you through the stars. Sit around the campfire (winter only) with tea or coffee and a glass of port.

Operates Daily; Departs 1 hour prior to sunset and lasts approximately 4 hours.

Need to Know Not available for children ages 9 and under.

Inclusions Canapes and sparkling wine. 3-course bush tucker inspired buffet. Didgeridoo performance. Guided tour of the night sky. Return transfers from accommodation.

(Day 7) - Australian Domestic Flight - Ayers Rock to Sydney

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

(Days 8 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Sydney to Gladstone

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Gladstone.

(Days 7 to 8) - 1 Night Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night in your studio room apartment.

Just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport, your accommodation is conveniently located between Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD.

The friendly staff at your accommodation can attend to your every need with 24 hour guest reception. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at their signature restaurant.

Relax in a stylish and comfortable haven whilst being in close proximity to shopping at Westfield’s Pitt St Mall and Darling Harbour. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Pitt St towards Circular Quay to take in more of Sydney’s world famous sites- like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Insider's Tip: Heron Island Turtles

Heron Island is the breeding home for the Loggerhead and Green sea turtles.

These giants of the sea return to lay their eggs, some 30 years after they were hatched, in the exact same spot continuing the circle of life on Heron Island.

(Days 8 to 12) - 4 Nights Accommodation on Heron Island

Travel to your accommodation on a Great Barrier Reef Island, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

This luxury vacation resort is set amongst a dazzling parade of aquamarine waters, shimmering white sand beaches and colour-splashed reef teeming with life. It’s what you don’t see around the island that makes the resort so special. You won’t see any buildings above the tree line. And you won’t bump into any day trippers either. The reef vacation experience is exclusively for guests, a unique experience few other resorts in the world can offer. There’s a relaxed island lifestyle that sets the island apart, a sophisticated yet casual resort atmosphere. Here the emphasis is on exploring and discovering the natural attractions that have made Heron famous around the world. The vacation resort rooms are equipped with either balcony or terrace, as well as tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerators, hairdryers, and many more. In order to help guests leave the outside world behind, televisions and telephones, while available on the island, are not found in guest rooms. Breakfast Included. Upgrade to Beachside Suite available (pricing upon request).

(Days 12) - Australian Domestic Flight - Gladstone to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Gladstone to Brisbane.

(Days 12 cont) - Shuttle Transfer - Brisbane Airport to Accommodation

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

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address.

(Days 12 to 14) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Brisbane

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

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is conveniently located in Brisbane’s city centre. It is within walking distance to the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, Treasury Casino, South Bank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Recently, the hotel went through a major refurbishment. Its rooms are equipped with free coffee/tea making facility, fridge, air conditioning, and hair dryer.

(Days 12 to 14) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Brisbane

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

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is conveniently located in Brisbane’s city centre. It is within walking distance to the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, Treasury Casino, South Bank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Recently, the hotel went through a major refurbishment. Its rooms are equipped with free coffee/tea making facility, fridge, air conditioning, and hair dryer.

(Day 13) - Day Tour - Australia Zoo

Today you’ll visit the world-renowned Australia Zoo, made famous by Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. You’ll travel in style and comfort with a small group in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle that will pick you up and drop you off right at your hotel.

Our locally owned and operated tour provider is dedicated to giving our clients a comfortable, safe and friendly 5-star service to the Australia Zoo. This way you can avoid the coach tours and travel in style and luxury with a maximum of 14 passengers.

Travel 2 hours through the scenic Glass House Mountains on your way to the Australia Zoo.

Australia Zoo on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Queensland, is nestled on over 70 acres of natural Australian bushland. Steve and Terri Irwin’s vision has always been to make Australia Zoo the biggest and best wildlife conservation facility in the entire world, and there is no other zoo like Australia Zoo. The friendly and experienced zoo keepers will expand your knowledge and passion, and the drop-dead gorgeous animals love to get up close and personal with everyone! There is always something new to see or do, with a multi-million dollar expansion currently in progress.

Australia Zoo was recently named Major Tourist Attraction at the Queensland Tourism Awards for the third year running, and was inducted into the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame! This isn’t like many zoos you’ve encountered. The love and dedication to our planet’s wildlife is palpable in every corner of this seventy acres facility. In fact, many of our clients who “normally wouldn’t like zoos” have reported loving their experience at Steve Irwin’s Croc Zoo!

Your Day Tour includes: Pick-up & Drop-off from your hotel or accommodation; Day Admission into Australia Zoo; Short guided introduction to the Zoo; 5 Hours to Explore the Zoo

Upgrades Available: Koala Cuddle and Photo; Hire a Personal Caddie to Tour the Zoo; Safari Guided Tour & Private Guided Tour; Behind the Scenes Wildlife Hospital Tour

(Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer - Brisbane Accommodation to Airport

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

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address.

(Day 14 cont) - International Flight - Brisbane to Los Angeles

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.

  • 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.