13 Days: Sydney, Outback Rail Adventure & Reef [BU-G23SC]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Sydney (2 Nights), Ayers Rock (2), Alice Springs (1), Ghan (1), Darwin (2), Cairns (3)
  • US Domestic Flights - Hometown to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion) (Return)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Brisbane to Los Angeles (Not Included - Ask About Current Flight Deals)
  • Australia Domestic Flights: Brisbane or Sydney to Cairns, Sydney to Ayers Rock, Darwin to Cairns
  • Shuttle Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation, Alice Springs Accommodation to Train Station, Darwin Accommodation to Airport, Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return),
  • Day Tours Included - Ayers Rock: A Night at Field of Light, Piti Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas & Cultural Center, Uluru National Park Entry Pass, Travel by Deluxe Coach from Ayers Rock to Alice Springs; Darwin: Litchfield National Park Waterfalls
  • Overnight Tour - 1 Night Aboard the Ghan, Alice Springs to Darwin
  • 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 Sydney (Ask About Current Flight Deals)

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 4) - 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 3) - 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 Day Tour (Not Included) - 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 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 4) - 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 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 4) - Evening Event, Field of Light Pass

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 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

Uluru National Park Entry Pass

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 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 7) - 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 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Alice Springs Accommodation to Train Depot

Travel by pivate car from your vacation accommodation to the Train Station in Alice Springs, Australia.

(Days 7 to 8) - 1 Night Aboard The Ghan, Alice Springs to Darwin

The Ghan – Outback Australian Train Journey, Northern Territory (Alice Springs) & South Australia (1 night)

The Ghan. It’s an odd name for a train but in Australian history it is a living legend. The trip from Alice Springs to Darwin is spectacular. See the landscape transform from the red vastness of the Northern Territory to the modern & multicultural city of Darwin.

(Day 8) - Taxi from Darwin Train Station to Accommodation, pay as you go

Taxi or ride share transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah

(Days 8 to 10) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Darwin

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

Your Darwin accommodation offers guests an unrivalled location near Darwin Harbour and the convenience of close proximity to Darwin’s CBD. This 4 1/2 star property boasts panoramic views across the harbour, out to the Arafura Sea and presents the ideal vantage point from which to experience a famous Northern Territory sunset.

Accommodations are designed to reflect the local tropical style and comfortably casual laid-back ambience that only Darwin can offer. Hotel Rooms include bedroom & ensuite, telephones, internet access, LCD TV’s, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, iron & ironing board.

This vacation accommodation offers 24 hour reception, 24 hour room service, concierge, outdoor pool and spa, beauty salon, same day laundry service (excluding Sunday), business and secretarial services, tour desk and foreign exchange desk.

Conveniently located onsite is a restaurant and bar boasting a range of contemporary a la carte cuisine choices. Guests can enjoy a cold beverage from the bar, or dine in style at the perfect location for a casual meal, romantic dinner or family feast. You are also just a very short walk from the Darwin city business district and shops, Darwin Harbour, the Entertainment Centre & the Government House.

Room upgrades available upon request (additional costs apply).

(Day 9) - Day Tour, Litchfield National Park Waterfalls - Full Day

Established in 1986, Litchfield National Park is a stunning location. You can take in the splendor of thundering waterfalls, rainforest pockets and historic sacred sites. It is a haven for hundreds of native bird species and the plateau supports a rich range of woodland flora. The traditional custodians of the Park are the Wagait people, many of whom still call the area home.

Litchfield National Park’s major attractions are the permanent spring fed waterfalls of Florence, Tolmer and Wangi falls. The Park’s central sandstone plateau supports patches of monsoonal rainforest that thrive in the deep, narrow gorges, created over thousands of years by the force of the waterfalls cutting into the escarpment walls.

Common wildlife species include wallaroos, wallabies, possums, flying foxes and dingoes. The caves near Tolmer Falls are home to a colony of rare Orange Horseshoe Bats. Litchfield is also a haven for hundreds of native bird species. Birds of prey are common during the dry season and the Rainbow Bee-eater inhabits the sheltered areas close to waterfalls.

See the picturesque double waterfall that forms beautiful Florence Falls, surrounded by lush rainforest. Continue to Tolmer Falls which cascades over two high escarpments and plunges into a deep waterhole below.

Journey a short distance to the rock pool at Wangi Falls where there’s time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the waters at the waterfall’s base, (conditions permitting). Or perhaps take a nature walk to the top of Wangi Falls and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the lush surrounds.

Operates
Varies based on season
Pick up between 6:55am and 7:10am and Returns 6:00pm (approx.)

Includes
– Lunch
– Experienced driver/guide
– Comprehensive commentary
– Travel in air-conditioned coach

Need to Know
National Park Pass to be purchased separately. Please wear closed walking shoes and warm layers in cooler months and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit/towel in summer months, water bottle, and a hat. Moderate level of fitness required. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Florence Falls has a 160-step staircase down to swimming area, or there is a viewing platform at top of the falls if you do not wish to swim.
Tolmer Falls is a flat walk of 15mins each way.
Wangi Falls is an easy 5-minute walk through rainforest.

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

Travel by shuttle from your Darwin Accommodation to Airport.

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

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Darwin to Cairns.

(Day 10) - 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 10 to 13) - 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.

(Days 11 to 12) - Free Days 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!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Kuranda Scenic Railway & Aboriginal Culture

A wonderful day awaits as you are transported on the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail to the famous village in the rainforest – Kuranda. Your Kuranda Boarding Pass ensures preferential seating, discounted entry into selected Kuranda attractions and a detailed map is also included. Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens, is your next stop. Board the amphibious Army Duck and enjoy the Koala & Wildlife Park. Transfer back to Kuranda, then it’s time to board Skyrail for your return journey.



Check in: A driver will check you in at your accommodation. You special Kuranda Boarding pass offerings pre-allocated seating on the Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail, preferential seating on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a detailed map of Kuranda, and discounted entry into selected Kuranda Attractions.




Kuranda Scenic Rail: At the scheduled time board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.

Kuranda Village: Once you arrive at beautiful Kuranda Station, you have ample time to explore the many and varied shops, as well as the Heritage Markets which operate daily.

Rainforestation: Your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest, where a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. Also included in your tour is the Koala & Wildlife Park. The shuttle bus will then take you back to Kuranda.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre. Our hostess will meet you on completion of Skyrail and will assist with your return transfer to your accommodation.

Operates: Daily (Subject to black outs for Kuranda maintainance.) Pick-up Between 7:00-8:00am and at Return at 5:30pm (approximately).

Upgrade to Gold Class: Dedicated host service; Individual seating, lounge-style chairs; Quality refreshments including sparkling Australian wine, beer, orange juice, soft drink, ice water, mocktails, tea, coffee and appetisers and a chilled refresher towel during the journey; Ambient, historical décor, including timber look flooring, historical photographs and cedar interior; Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen, postcard and postage; Souvenir trip guide

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Daintree Dreaming Tour

This fun, exclusive tour allows you to join in a real Aboriginal cultural experience, combining
pristine natural beauty of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park. A day you will
never forget!


Traditional Aboriginal Fishing: Travel to Cooya Beach north of Port Douglas and meet with the Kubirri Warra brothers who follow the traditions of their ancestors. This special place is a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji. This unique coastal place has three diverse ecosystems – beach, mangroves and coastal reef – that are connected to each other by the ever changing mud-flats and tidal lagoons.
The brothers teach their guests how to throw a spear and demonstrate how to search and hunt for fish, mud crabs and mussels. Learn about bush tucker and medicines before enjoying homemade damper on the balcony of the family home and taste your catch of the day.
Welcome to Country at Mossman Gorge: You are welcomed with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony. This ceremony is conducted by Aboriginal people with specialized cultural knowledge and will protect you whilst visiting Kuku Yalanji country.
Mossman Gorge Centre: Enjoy a delicious lunch infused with local flavors.
Mossman Gorge: Wander into the lush rainforest of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park – Mossman Gorge, home of the Kuku Yalanji people and experience one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful rainforest. An easy going walk is across boardwalks, tracks & bridges protecting the delicate eco system that adorns spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges. Your guide will explain the rich flora, fauna and eco system of this amazing rainforest. Ensure you bring your swimming bathers so you can make the most of the beautiful private swimming hole that is encased in the rainforest.
Please note: Itinerary can operate in reverse subject to tides.
Operates
Mondays, Fridays & Saturdays until 30 April 2023, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays onwards.
Departs Cairns 7:30am, Returns 5:30pm (approx.)
Departs Northern Beaches 8:00am, Returns 5:00pm (approx.)
Departs Port Douglas 8:30am, Returns 5:30pm (approx.)
Includes
-Return Hotel Transfers
-Experienced Aboriginal Adventure North Australia guide
-2 hr traditional fishing & gathering walk with Kubirri Warra clan member
-Homemade Damper on Cooya Beach
-Lunch at Mayi Café
-Guided Rainforest walk at Mossman Gorge
Need to Know
The Traditional Aboriginal Fishing experience calls for a medium to high level of fitness as guests will be walking across Cooya Beach, through mudflats and wading through coastal waters up to knee height.
What to bring:
-Comfortable clothes & walking shoes (no long pants if participating in Traditional Fishing)
-Insect repellent
-Water bottle
-Hat / Sunscreen
-Umbrella/raincoat (in wet weather)
Upgrades
Replace Guided Rainforest Walk with a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk.
The Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk is lead by an Aboriginal guide from the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre who will guide you along a private rainforest track sharing Dreamtime stories, how the Kuku Yalanji people lived in this environment and more. Demonstrating traditional plant use, identifying bush food and traditions like making soaps and ochre paint.

Optional Tour (Not Included), Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Today you’ll go on a cruise on a catamaran to an all-weather platform on the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, and not surprisingly the world’s most extensive coral reef.

On arrival at the Great Barrier Reef, you will be provided some handy tips on the correct use of snorkelling equipment and then help fit you with a mask, snorkel and fins so you can take to the water with confidence. The snorkel area is supervised at all times and personal flotation devices are readily available in adult and child sizes. Stairs lead down from the main deck to a submersed snorkel platform where you can sit down and put on your mask and fins. Access to the water could not be easier with the snorkel platform opening directly into a shallow, bright and sheltered coral lagoon.

Floating snorkeller rest stations are strategically located around the site where you can take a rest at any time. This prevents tired snorkellers standing on and damaging the corals and is part of our commitment to ensuring our site is kept in it’s current pristine condition.

Also included is a range of activities and facilities for the non-swimmer or those simply wanting to take time out of the water: the Semi-Submersible, the Glass Bottom Boat and the Underwater reef viewing observatory all offer experiences with different perspectives.

At lunch time our Marine Biologist will announce the fish feeding demonstration which starts in front of the observatory windows before moving to the snorkel platform. The feeding frenzy includes large schools of Red Bass, Trevally and the star of the show, Wally, our resident Giant Maori Wrasse!

Inclusions: 90 minute cruise (each way) on a spacious fast catamaran; Morning and afternoon tea & Hot/Cold Tropical Buffet Lunch; 5-hours at the Marine World reef activity platform; All snorkelling equipment (mask / snorkel / fins) plus free lycra or wet suit hire; Semi-Submersible and Glass Bottom Boat Tours; Underwater reef viewing observatory

Optional Day Tour (Not Included), Great Barrier Reef Upgrades

Craving some more reef adventure? Try these upgrades for more great experiences on the Great Barrier Reef.

Intro to Diving: No experience necessary. You’ll be provided with all the equipment and guidance necessary for an amazing first scuba-experience.

Certified Diving: Already a card-carrying experienced diver? We’ll give you all the necessary equipment and get you set-up quick with a guide and dive tender vessel. With the time you save on instruction, you’ll get to complete up to 3 unique dives in one day.

Helmet Diving: Perfect for the non-swimmer! Get as close as you can get to a real diving experience without even getting your hair wet. The special helmet provides a scuba-like experience you’ll love.

Guided Snorkel Tours: Informative small group tours with an expert Marine Biologist guide. A Coral Gardens Tour takes you to a sheltered lagoon that’s suitable for beginner snorkelers. Or if you’re looking for a bit more adventure, take the Snorkel Safari. This drift snorkeling adventuring takes you to the outer reef wall for unique views.

SEABOB Guided Tours: For the ultimate in easy, underwater mobility try a SEABOB. This advanced, underwater jet scooter uses simple body movements to steer as you are propelled past coral, tropical fish and more. Spend your energy seeing the sights, let the SEABOB do the rest.

Heli-Magic: Elevate your Great Barrier Reef experience with a scenic helicopter flight. Take a scenic flight from the Marine World platform or take the helicopter to and from the platform for a bird’s eye commute to the reef. You’ll see the immensity of the Great Barrier Reef and pristine, blue waters from the perfect vantage point.

(Day 13) - 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 13) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 13) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles (Ask About Current Flight Deals)

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.

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