Sydney, Ayers Rock & Great Barrier Reef
9 Days
from
Starting at $2,999 per person*
Highlights:
Australia
(Sydney, Ayers Rock, Cairns)
Trip Start/End:
Sydney
/
Cairns
A lone didgeridoo echoes across the endless desert landscape as the setting sun illuminates the rich red landscape of Australia’s outback heart.
This is just one experience in an itinerary that will lead you deep into the soul of the great southern land. The journey begins in Australia’s glittering harbor city where you’ll wander the cobblestone lanes of Sydney’s quaint Rocks district, soak in the picture-perfect views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, and experience the city’s relaxed beach-side lifestyle. Then you’ll travel deep into Australia’s red centre where the shifting shadows of Uluru and the Olgas rock formations emphasize the deep spiritual connection the Aboriginal people have with this remarkable region. Finally, you’ll journey to the tropical north coast where you’ll cruise crocodile-infested rainforest rivers and dive the vibrant coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef.
This is a travel experience the delves well below the surface of this diverse country. From Sydney’s infamous convict history to the rich traditions of Aboriginal Dreamtime storytelling, local guides lead you beyond the travel-guide clichés and into the true heart of the sunburnt country. No expense is spared as you sail the Great Barrier Reef aboard a luxury catamaran, recharge your batteries in premium hotels and delight your senses with world-class dining experiences.
Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.
NOTE: Tour does not include international nor domestic airfare. Speak to our in house airfare specialist.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Sydney
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Welcome Package - Documents
| The Grace (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Sydney
| - Shared - Morning Panoramic Sydney with Lunch Cruise - Mini-Coach
- Optional Activities
| The Grace (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Sydney
| - Shared - Full Day Blue Mountains & Wildlife with Lunch - Coach
| The Grace (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Sydney - Ayers Rock
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Shared - Airport Shuttle Service
- Shared - Uluru Sunset Tour (5 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
| Desert Gardens (4.5*) Standard Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: (None)
|
- Day 5
- Ayers Rock
| - Shared - Kata Tjuta Sunrise Tour (5 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Sounds of Silence Dinner (4 hrs) - Dinner
| Desert Gardens (4.5*) Standard Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Ayers Rock - Cairns
| - Transfer - Shared - Airport Shuttle Service
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Pullman Cairns International (5*) City Mountain View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Cairns
| - Shared - Daintree 4WD Wanderer (10 hrs) - 4WD/Driver
| Pullman Cairns International (5*) City Mountain View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Cairns
| - Shared - Upolu Cay & Reef Cruise - Vehicle/Driver
| Pullman Cairns International (5*) City Mountain View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Cairns
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Sydney
The Grace
Day 1: Sydney
A private transfer from the Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa, is provided.
In the package you will receive a welcome letter, detailed itinerary, vouchers for each service, supplier contact list as well as various brochures of the destinations you will be visiting. This will be provided about a month prior to your departure date.
Accommodation: The Grace (4*) The Grace Hotel (4*) is an elegantly restored heritage listed Neo Gothic hotel built in 1930. The 382 contemporary guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, designed with the frequent traveler in mind. The Grace Cafe serves modern Australian cuisine and the Grace Brasserie offers a sumptuous buffet lunch available on weekdays. Drop in at P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub and enjoy a pint of Guinness in the heart of Sydney. Take advantage of the Rooftop Health Club offering state-of-the-art Cybex fitness equipment, an indoor lap pool, sauna, steam room and sun terrace. For a rejuvenating experience, the Oriental Spa is also available, with the treatments assured to revitalize and invigorate.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Rocks
Day 2: Sydney
Begin this half-day panoramic city tour of beautiful Sydney today as you depart your hotel in a shared mini-coach on route to the renowned “Rocks” area, where your guide will explain the historic significance of this popular tourist harbour. Have you camera handy as you marvel at two of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Visit the city’s shopping center and the trendy new Oxford Street before traveling to the swanky Paddington area boasting some elegant terrace lined houses. After, travel to the superb coastal cliff area around Tamarama and Bronte for a brief walkabout before heading to the Bondi Beach area to explore the beachfront promenade. You’ll then return back to the Sydney harbour for a lunchtime cruise.
From modern monuments to historic districts, the Australian capital Sydney boasts a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy including trips to the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Try spending some time exploring the Harbour area with its many cafes and gift shops. Head out on a half day tour or picturesque harbour cruise. The SmartVisit allows visitors to visit the sight they want to see, on their own schedule. Ask your Travel Consultant for purchase details.
Accommodation: The Grace (4*)
Wombat
Day 3: Sydney
Head out this morning west of Sydney into the rugged and beautiful landscapes of the World Heritage listed Blue Mountain National Park grounds by shared mini-coach. Travel along the scenic Bells Line Road making stops during this transit in Narrowneck and Cahill to really enjoy the fabulous views of the surrounding area. Marvel at the ever so steep valleys and canyons that encompass the Three Sisters monolith. Take a ride across the skies on the Scenic Skyway Cable Car system (at own expense). Enjoy listening to the ancient Aboriginal Dreamtime legends of creation before travelling to the quaint townships of Leura and Katoomba. Immerse yourself into the native bush as you visit an authentic Australian wildlife park for an opportunity to interact with a variety of habitual species including Koalas, Kangaroos, Wombats, Dingoes, and many more creatures.
Accommodation: The Grace (4*)
Ayers Rock
Uluru at Sunset
The Desert Garden Hotel
Day 4: Sydney - Ayers Rock
A private transfer from the Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa, is provided.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
A shared transfer from the Ayers Rock airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.
Head out into the Outback with an expert Australia Guide to explore the most profound and culturally significant monolithic structure in Australia. Departing the resort the tour will travel through the outback landscapes to the entrance of the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. From this point it is only a matter of minutes before the spectra of Uluru rises from the sand dunes to demonstrate its enormity and presence. Within your first step you are presented with a photographic opportunity of this amazing Australian icon. With Uluru looming in front of you, your guide will take you closer towards the base. The closer you wander the more you surrender to the realisation of the sheer size and magnitude of this monolith. As you drive around the base, your guide will take you to the entrance of Mutitjulu Waterhole, a semi-permanent watercourse nestled in the contours of Uluru. Here you will learn the Creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) as well as a number of other stories associated with other prominent Tjukurpa (Dreaming) stories. You will see the rock art of the ancients and learn how Uluru was, and still is, a significant location for teaching young Aboriginal people about their culture. You'll then adjourn to the new Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area where you can marvel at an uninterrupted view of Uluru with Kata Tjuta in the background. A return transfer to your accommodation is provided upon completion of the tour.
Accommodation: Desert Gardens (4.5*) The Desert Gardens (4.5*) Hotel is set amongst the magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs of the Ayers Rock outback landscape. Each of the rooms feature the unique flora designs and patterns found within the Central Australian Desert. Guest will journey along shaded walkways which lead to spacious poolside rooms, some even offering spectacular views of the monolithic Uluru. Relax under the private veranda or courtyard of your room to experience what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. When the sun has gone down, dine at White Gums Restaurant and savour Australian native delicacies or feast on the flavours of the a la carte Arnguli Grill.
The Domes of the Kata Tjuta
Sounds of Silence Dinner
Day 5: Ayers Rock
Set out this morning bright and early to experience the essence of the word serenity during a visit to one of Australia’s most spiritual landmarks, as you enjoy the sunrise over the monolithic Kata Tjuta. Upon departing your accommodation notice the mighty rock formation in the distance, as you travel some 40 kilometer across desert landscapes to the foot of this iconic rock structure. Travel on foot to the best vantage point to marvel at all 36 domed monolithic rocks illuminate as the sun’s powerful morning glow creates rosy coloured patterns across the structures surface. You’ll then make way to the western side of Kata Tjuta for an opportunity to relax and enjoy an outback picnic breakfast. Explore the Kata further as you travel to the Walpa Gorge (Walpa meaning Wind) to experience the whistling of the wind through the gorge walls. This is also an important cultural location where aboriginal men frequent for ceremonial purposes. You’re experienced and knowledgeable guide will explain the geology of this dynamic area and how it has evolved over millions of years. Upon completion of the tour you will be returned to your accommodation.
Delicious delicacies and silent serenity best describes this evening Sound of Silence Outback Dinner experience. Be whisked away to a secluded and specially chosen location shortly before sundown to the solitary sounds of didgeridoo’s echoing across the outback desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés. Marvel at all the different hues of red and orange as the sun sets below the horizon and the stars begin there dance across the ever-increasingly darkened dance-floor sky, as you feast upon an array of Northern Territorial culinary delights including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads and Aussie deserts. Allow your guide and resident astronomer to provide color commentary on what is considered by many as one of the world’s best stargazing experiences. Wind down the evening with a coffee, tea or hot mulled wine before heading back to your accommodation.
Accommodation: Desert Gardens (4.5*)
Clown Fish
The Pullman Cairns International
Day 6: Ayers Rock - Cairns
A shared transfer from the Ayers Rock airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
A private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel accommodation, or vice versa, is provided for today.
Accommodation: Pullman Cairns International (5*) The Pullman Cairns International is a beautiful five star heritage-style hotel, located right in the heart of the Cairns CBD. The largest five star hotel in Cairns, The Pullman Cairns International boasts 321 very spacious rooms, with floor spaces of over 40 square metres, and include private balconies. Bathrooms are made from Italian marble, with back-heated mirrors. The Pullman Cairns International has two pools, plus a childrens’ pool, and Jacuzzi located on Daintrees pool deck. Refreshments can be ordered on the pool deck and enjoyed on soft sun lounge chairs. Nearby, a fully equipped gymnasium, equipped with two saunas is located on level three. The Pullman Cairns International is host to one of Cairns’ finest dining outlets – Coco’s Restaurant. Coco’s is renowned in the local area and to guests alike for Cairns’ best Seafood Buffet: the Chef’s Choice Seafood Buffet, nightly from 6pm. In addition to various breakfast, lunch and dinner options, Coco’s also features a lovely High Tea, available daily from 11.00am, and a Sunday Brunch from 11.30am each Sunday, featuring plenty of Seafood, cocktails, champagne and live entertainment. For the ultimate relaxation, unwind at Mii Spa, The Pullman Cairns International’ luxurious ten-room day spa. The largest day spa in Cairns, Mii Spa is the perfect place to turn your holiday into a truly indulgent experience, with a range of products featuring local indigenous ingredients, and relaxation or beauty treatments to have you truly glowing.
Ulysses Butterfly
Day 7: Cairns
Departing your accommodation you will travel by mini-coach along with other travellers to visit the rich farming areas toward the World Heritage Listed forest region of the Daintree National Park. Cruise on the mirrored smooth waters of the Daintree River, seeking out the vivid Ulysses Butterfly, Kingfishers and various other wildlife species. The cruise takes you through silent backwaters where crocodiles can normally be seen basking on the muddy banks. Arriving on the northern side of the river, you will now enter the Daintree section of the Wet Tropics World Heritage protected rainforest. Travel up the beautiful Alexandra Range passing through rainforest to wrap up this adventurous day of touring. Upon completion of the tour a return transfer to your accommodation is provided.
Accommodation: Pullman Cairns International (5*)
Footprints in the sand...
Day 8: Cairns
Set out on an aquatic adventure in style and with speed aboard the Ocean Freedom to the renowned Great Barrier Reef during this first class journey to experience an epic, natural paradise. Enjoy personalised snorkeling, certified and introductory diving and a glass bottom boat tour, with the friendly, professional crew. Enjoy being the first boat to arrive at the pristine Upolu Cay, allowing yours to be the first footsteps on its golden beaches. Explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with Ocean Freedom, for an unforgettable day in paradise without the bustle, hustle and crowds of the city. Ocean Freedom provides six hours at the Great Barrier Reef, visiting two destinations and offering scrumptious seafood smorgasbord lunch. Experience the Wonder Wall a truly magnificent dive and snorkel site on the outer edge of Upolu Reef. The enthusiastic crew is committed to providing for your every need, ensuring that all guests have a memorable and safe experience exploring the Great Barrier Reef. The transfers to and from your Cairns accommodation are included.
Accommodation: Pullman Cairns International (5*) Day 9: Cairns
A private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel accommodation, or vice versa, is provided for today.
Accommodation: Depart Depart from Cairns international airport - end of itinerary.
Accommodations
The Grace
The Grace (4*) - Sydney
The Grace Hotel (4*) is an elegantly restored heritage listed Neo Gothic hotel built in 1930. The 382 contemporary guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, designed with the frequent traveler in mind. The Grace Cafe serves modern Australian cuisine and the Grace Brasserie offers a sumptuous buffet lunch available on weekdays. Drop in at P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub and enjoy a pint of Guinness in the heart of Sydney. Take advantage of the Rooftop Health Club offering state-of-the-art Cybex fitness equipment, an indoor lap pool, sauna, steam room and sun terrace. For a rejuvenating experience, the Oriental Spa is also available, with the treatments assured to revitalize and invigorate.
The Desert Garden Hotel
Desert Gardens (4.5*) - Ayers Rock
The Desert Gardens (4.5*) Hotel is set amongst the magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs of the Ayers Rock outback landscape. Each of the rooms feature the unique flora designs and patterns found within the Central Australian Desert. Guest will journey along shaded walkways which lead to spacious poolside rooms, some even offering spectacular views of the monolithic Uluru. Relax under the private veranda or courtyard of your room to experience what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. When the sun has gone down, dine at White Gums Restaurant and savour Australian native delicacies or feast on the flavours of the a la carte Arnguli Grill.
The Pullman Cairns International
City Mountain View Room
Pullman Cairns International (5*) - Cairns
The Pullman Cairns International is a beautiful five star heritage-style hotel, located right in the heart of the Cairns CBD. The largest five star hotel in Cairns, The Pullman Cairns International boasts 321 very spacious rooms, with floor spaces of over 40 square metres, and include private balconies. Bathrooms are made from Italian marble, with back-heated mirrors. The Pullman Cairns International has two pools, plus a childrens’ pool, and Jacuzzi located on Daintrees pool deck. Refreshments can be ordered on the pool deck and enjoyed on soft sun lounge chairs. Nearby, a fully equipped gymnasium, equipped with two saunas is located on level three. The Pullman Cairns International is host to one of Cairns’ finest dining outlets – Coco’s Restaurant. Coco’s is renowned in the local area and to guests alike for Cairns’ best Seafood Buffet: the Chef’s Choice Seafood Buffet, nightly from 6pm. In addition to various breakfast, lunch and dinner options, Coco’s also features a lovely High Tea, available daily from 11.00am, and a Sunday Brunch from 11.30am each Sunday, featuring plenty of Seafood, cocktails, champagne and live entertainment. For the ultimate relaxation, unwind at Mii Spa, The Pullman Cairns International’ luxurious ten-room day spa. The largest day spa in Cairns, Mii Spa is the perfect place to turn your holiday into a truly indulgent experience, with a range of products featuring local indigenous ingredients, and relaxation or beauty treatments to have you truly glowing.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Australia
VISA/PASSPORT
American and Canadian citizens are required to have a valid passport to enter Australia. Americans and Canadians must enter with an Australian visa or, if eligible, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to three months. It may be obtained for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers. Please note that American citizens who overstay their ETA or visa, even for short periods, may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check information about the ETA, other visas, and entry requirements with the Embassy of Australia
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/australia.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Canberra.
Government: Constitutional Monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1901.
Language: The official language is English. Many other languages are retained by minorities, including Italian, German, Greek, Vietnamese, Chinese dialects and Aboriginal languages.
Religion: 27% Roman Catholic, 21% Protestant and smaller minorities of all other major religions.
Time: Australia spans three time zones: GMT + 10 (GMT + 11 from October to March, except Queensland; starts a month earlier in Tasmania). GMT + 9.5 (GMT + 10.5 from October to March, except Northern Territory). GMT + 8 (GMT + 9 from October to March, three-year trial in Western Australia until 2009 followed by referendum). Some states operate daylight saving time during the Australian summer.
Electricity: 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs are in use, however sockets are different from those found in most countries and an adaptor socket may be needed. Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances are found in most hotels.
Telephone: Country code: 61.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good in and around populated areas; access in some of the more isolated, outback and rural areas is limited. US handsets are not compatible.
Internet: Available throughout Australia. Internet cafes are prevalent in all capital cities and tourist towns, and individual hotels may also provide facilities. Wi-Fi access is increasing in cities and is mainly found in hotels, bars and cafes.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- International and Internal Flights - Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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