Inspiring Australia
13 Days from $7,525 per person
From the Great Barrier Reef to the Red Center of the Outback, Australia boasts a plethora of extraordinary natural wonders. This exclusive journey is a showcase of vast tropical rainforests, otherworldly rock formations and ancient indigenous culture. Snorkel across the underwater gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo at a hosted starlit dinner in Uluṟu and take in the iconic sights of Sydney aboard a luxury yacht. Mother Nature reveals her most flamboyant colors on this majestic itinerary.
Travel to Australia from the USA requires crossing the International Date Line. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1. Ensure your flights are booked two days prior to the start date of the tour itinerary.
Overview
From the Great Barrier Reef to the Red Center of the Outback, Australia boasts a plethora of extraordinary natural wonders. This exclusive journey is a showcase of vast tropical rainforests, otherworldly rock formations and ancient indigenous culture. Snorkel across the underwater gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo at a hosted starlit dinner in Uluṟu and take in the iconic sights of Sydney aboard a luxury yacht. Mother Nature reveals her most flamboyant colors on this majestic itinerary.
Travel to Australia from the USA requires crossing the International Date Line. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1. Ensure your flights are booked two days prior to the start date of the tour itinerary.
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Day 1: Welcome to Cairns
On arrival at the airport, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. In the evening meet your Traveling Concierge and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner at the beachfront Nu Nu Restaurant, where you will enjoy a four-course tasting menu made from seasonal ingredients and paired with matching wines as you overlook the crystal-clear water of the Coral Sea.
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Day 2: The Ancient Daintree Rainforest and Indigenous Culture
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Daintree National Park is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest on the Australian continent. Join your Local Expert for an exclusive exploration into this ancient rainforest and learn about the close relationship the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people have with their land. Lunch is served in a tranquil setting in the heart of the rainforest. Return to your hotel, where you have the evening at your leisure.
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Day 3: Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
Visible from space, the Great Barrier Reef is a place of great ecological value and beauty. Experience its magic as you cruise out to Agincourt Reef to enjoy the day relaxing on board or take to the water to discover spectacular coral formations and a world of unique marine creatures, as you snorkel around underwater gardens. Lunch is served on board in air-conditioned comfort.
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Day 4: Into the Outback
In the morning fly from the coast to Alice Springs, the Red Center of Australia and the heartland of some of the indigenous Aboriginal people. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant; then join your Local Expert for a town tour. As the sun sets over the otherworldly landscapes of the Outback, prepare for a traditional dinner in the wilderness, set beneath the Milky Way.
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Day 5: Desert and Canyons
Travel to the Henbury Meteorite Conservation Reserve, which was formed when a meteor hit the earth's surface 4,700 years ago. Explore the twelve visible craters and marvel at the unusual plant life growing in the area. In the afternoon, join your Local Expert for a walk along the Creek Bed of Kings Canyon. Enjoy dinner and wine served at Carmichael's Restaurant.
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Day 6: Spectacular Sunrise and Sunset
Rise with the sun and embark on an invigorating 3.7 mile Rim Walk at Kings Canyon. Alternatively, choose a more leisurely stroll along the creek bed. Your journey continues to Curtin Springs, a vast family-owned farm that is home to 4,000 head of cattle! Learn about local life from a resident, as you enjoy a BBQ lunch. Finish your travels today in Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park just in time for a spectacular sunset with canapes and wine.
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Day 7: Uluṟu & Kata Tjuṯa
Wake up to an impressive sunrise over Kata Tjuṯa and Uluṟu. Then it’s off to the Uluṟu—Kata Tjuṯa Cultural Centre for breakfast and an insight into the history of the local Anangu people. Then walk through the Walpa Gorge to see the domes of Kata Tjuṯa, also known as the Olgas. This afternoon take a walk around the base of Uluṟu and hear timeless stories, see rock art, and visit Mutitjulu Waterhole, a historical water source for the area. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Highlight Dinner inspired by local native ingredients, at Ikari Restaurant.
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Day 8: The Stunning Harbor of Sydney
Experience the magic of sunrise over Uluṟu, before enjoying breakfast at your hotel. Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps a Bespoke Experience of a helicopter flight over Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. In the afternoon, fly to thrilling Sydney, check into your harbor-side hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
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Day 9: Blue Mountains National Park
Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blue Mountains National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes. See the Three Sisters rock formations, marvel at Bridal Veil Falls and embark on a peaceful wilderness walk. Enjoy lunch at your leisure, before arriving at your hotel. Later meet your fellow travelers for a delicious dinner made from local produce.
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Day 10: Hunter Valley Wine Country
Take in vistas of pristine landscapes, as you travel north toward Hunter Valley for a day of fine cuisine and wine. On arrival, you’re hosted for a private wine tasting at one of the region’s renowned wineries, followed by an exquisite tasting lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure at your boutique hotel, perhaps opting for a massage at the spa. Enjoy dinner this evening at your hotel.
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Day 11: Set Sail on Sydney Harbor
Prepare for a day of sailing on iconic Sydney Harbor. Join a skilled sailing crew on board a luxury yacht and take in views of Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge and the secluded coves surrounded by multimillion-dollar mansions. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps dining at one of the city’s popular restaurants.
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Day 12: Sydney Sightseeing and Opera House
With a Local Expert, see the city’s beachside Eastern Suburbs and take a stroll along the scenic coastal path. In the afternoon, join your Traveling Concierge for a VIP tour of the famous Sydney Opera House, before enjoying a Celebration Dinner at Peter Gilmore’s iconic Bennelong Restaurant, set in the sails of the Sydney Opera House.
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Day 13: Farewell Sydney
After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Great Barrier Reef
Great Adventures' modern high speed catamarans whisk guests away in comfort to the spectacular outer reaches of the reef. We ensure our guests have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this most important World Heritage area. As part of the Quicksilver Group, Great Adventures' is committed to sustainable environmental practices and ongoing conservation for future generations to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
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Definite Departure
- 2020 Departures
| Start Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Nov 19 | 24 Nov 19 |
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$7,525pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
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2020 Departures
|
4 Feb 20 | 16 Feb 20 |
|
$7,525pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | |
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2020 Departures
|
3 Mar 20 | 15 Mar 20 |
|
$7,525pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now |
- 2020 Departures: are subject to change of itinerary, price, discount and hotels.
All departures are limited to just 20 guests.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $2,550 p.p.
Roommate matching is not available on this trip.
Gratuities for your Traveling Concierge are on a voluntary basis at the end of the trip.
FLIGHT INFORMATION: The following internal-vacation flights are to be purchased separately in order to fulfill the vacation itinerary: Day 1 – Flights to arrive prior to 2pm at Cairns Airport. Day 4 – QF1949 from Cairns to Alice Springs (required internal-vacation flight). Day 8 – JQ661 from Ayers Rock to Sydney (required internal-vacation flight). Day 13 – Flights to depart anytime from Sydney airport.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
Included Dining
12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 1 Lunch with Wine, 7 Dinners with Wine all with tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
Sydney
- Embark on a VIP tour of the famous Sydney Opera House, before enjoying a Celebration Dinner at Peter Gilmore’s iconic Bennelong restaurant, set in the building's iconic sails.
- Join a skilled sailing crew on board a luxury yacht and take in views of Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the secluded coves surrounded by multimillion-dollar mansions.
Daintree Rainforest
- Join your Local Expert for an exclusive tour to learn about the close relationship the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people have their land.
Great Barrier Reef
- Take to the water and discover spectacular coral formations and a world of unique marine creatures, as you snorkel around underwater gardens.
Alice Springs
- Explore Alice Springs with the guide of your Local Expert.
Henbury Meteorite Conservation Reserve
- Travel to the Henbury Meteorite Conservation Reserve to see the crater formed by a meteor strike.
Kings Canyon
- Take a walk with your Local Expert to explore the red rock cliffs of Kings Canyon.
- Rise with the sun and embark on a vigorous 3.7 mile Rim Walk at Kings Canyon with awe-inspiring views from Cotterill’s Lookout.
Uluṟu
- Arrive at the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and watch the sun dip beyond the horizon, as you enjoy canapes and wine.
- Watch the magical sunrise over Uluru as you spend a morning at leisure.
Kata Tjuta
- Join your Travelling Concierge as you take a guided walk through the sacred Walpa Gorge.
Blue Mountains
- Enjoy the natural wonder that is the Blue Mountains, known for its dramatic landscapes.
Hunter Valley
- Enjoy the natural landscapes as you head north to the wine region of the Hunter Valley.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
-
Great Barrier Reef
Great Adventures' modern high speed catamarans whisk guests away in comfort to the spectacular outer reaches of the reef. We ensure our guests have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this most important World Heritage area. As part of the Quicksilver Group, Great Adventures' is committed to sustainable environmental practices and ongoing conservation for future generations to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
-
Great Barrier Reef
Great Adventures' modern high speed catamarans whisk guests away in comfort to the spectacular outer reaches of the reef. We ensure our guests have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this most important World Heritage area. As part of the Quicksilver Group, Great Adventures' is committed to sustainable environmental practices and ongoing conservation for future generations to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Australia must have a current passport that is valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. Australia also requires an electronic visa which is obtained at the time of your airline ticket purchase.
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Currency
You will be using the Australian dollar on your trip. You can use your debit or credit card for purchases. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Food in Australia is innovative and diverse. As an island nation with strong agricultural traditions, culinary traditions here are guided by local ingredients and seasonal variations, as well as international influences. You’ll find a variety of seafood including fresh oysters and crab, grilled steaks and lamb chops, meat pies, and fish and chips.
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Tipping
It is not customary to tip at restaurants in Australia. If you would like to reward good service when dining out it’s appropriate to leave 10 percent gratuity for your waiter.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend the equivalent of $4 per person/per day for your driver and $6 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is the equivalent of 1-2 dollars per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of comfortable, lightweight clothing that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Sturdy walking shoes are important. Insect repellant and sunscreen may come in handy, as well as a light jacket and reusable water bottle. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
-
Great Barrier Reef
Great Adventures' modern high speed catamarans whisk guests away in comfort to the spectacular outer reaches of the reef. We ensure our guests have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this most important World Heritage area. As part of the Quicksilver Group, Great Adventures' is committed to sustainable environmental practices and ongoing conservation for future generations to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
