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Peregrine Travel Centre

Best of Australia

Best of Australia

From $ 7,870 AUD

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Description

Calling all nature lovers – it doesn’t get much more Australian than this 13-day adventure. Kick off along the buzzing Darling Harbour, then wander the historic laneways of The Rocks, see famous sites like the Sydney Opera House and experience the Sydney Harbour area through a First Nations lens on the Tribal Warrior Harbour Cruise. Then, venture into the heart of Australia and experience the awe of Uluru, Kings Canyon and many more significant First Nations sites in the Red Centre. Finally, bask in the natural splendour of the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient wonder of Daintree Rainforest – this trip really shows that Australia can do it all.

Trip Name
Best of Australia
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
13
Capacity
15
Highlights
  • Deepen your understanding of Sydney Harbour on the Tribal Warrior Harbour Cruise. Join First Nations hosts to listen to cultural stories, learn about ancient food gathering techniques and watch a traditional dance performance.
  • Explore the Blue Mountains and walk through the gorgeous scenery of Katoomba Falls, Echo Point Lookout and the Three Sisters.
  • Discover the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you marvel at the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.
  • Embark on a guided walk through Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) and short a hike across the famous Kings Canyon plateau.
  • Take a full-day sailing and snorkelling tour of the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas, learning about the underwater ecosystem and the fragility of the environment from professional marine biologists.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Greening Australia. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges, restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL EXPERIENCES & COMMUNITIES First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments. In the case that we are unable to include planned activities with First Nations communities, we will endeavour to find a suitable alternative in the same or another destination on your trip.

Day 1 - Sydney
Welcome to Sydney, Australia – or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Sydney is located. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at your hotel at 6 pm. After, join your local leader and fellow travellers for an included welcome dinner along Darling Harbour. Maybe take a post-dinner stroll to take in the views of the waterfront, then head back to your hotel to settle in for the night.
Day 2 - Sydney / Blue Mountains
This morning, join your leader for an orientation walk of The Rocks and Circular Quay. Walk through Hickson’s Reserve, Campbells Cove and Cumberland Walk, and see Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge, Opera House and the Botanical Gardens. Then, it’s time to board the Mari Nawi, meaning ‘big canoe’, for the Tribal Warrior Cruise. You’ll develop a richer appreciation of the area and the deep and continuing connection the Traditional Custodians have to the land and waters surrounding Sydney. Listen to stories and learn about ancient First Nations wisdom – including fishing and foraging techniques that have supported First Nations peoples for tens of thousands of years. End the cruise with a traditional dance and music performance. In the afternoon, drive to Katoomba in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains – a land of rugged peaks, dense forests and waterfalls – where you’ll stay for the next two nights.
Day 3 - Blue Mountains
Start your day with a walk to Wentworth Falls and Fletchers Lookout for dramatic views over the valley. You then have the option to visit Scenic World – a family-owned attraction backdropped by the mountains. Here, you could board the world’s steepest railway and ride into Jamison Valley, look out for lyrebirds as you explore rainforest boardwalks, ride the cableway past sandstone escarpments and Orphan Rock, or see Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters on the Scenic Skyway. Alternatively, tackle the Prince Henry Cliff Walk – a 7 km hike that takes you past hanging swamps and waterfalls. Then, head to Echo Point Lookout – the main viewpoint for the legendary Three Sisters rock formations – and do the Three Sisters Walk for more views of the national park below. You might like to stop at Lookout Restaurant for lunch overlooking Echo Point before returning to Katoomba to relax.
Day 4 - Jenolan Caves / Blue Mountains / Sydney
This morning you'll visit Jenolan Caves. Estimated to be over 340 million years old, many scientists consider this the oldest open cave system in the world. It's an incredible sight, with huge stalactites and stalagmites hanging from the ceiling and large crystal speleothems decorating the chambers. Jenolan Caves – or Binoomeal, meaning ‘Dark places’ in the Gundungurra language – is also a sacred place for the Traditional Owners. While you’re here, learn about the Gundungurra people’s history, culture and continuing connection to the caves and their ecosystems. After, visit a truffle farm in Oberon for an immersive tasting experience with expert truffle growers, then drive back to Sydney. Some travellers in your group may be leaving tonight, so perhaps head out to dinner together and celebrate.
Day 5 - Sydney / Alice Springs
Your included airport transfer will take you from the hotel to Sydney Airport this morning. Fly to Alice Springs (flight not included) or Mparntwe, in the language of the Traditional Owners of the land on which Alice Springs is now located. This is the classic laidback Aussie town and your launching pad to reach some of the top spots over the next few days. The next part of your adventure officially kicks off with another welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your new group leader and new travel companions. After a quick intro, drive to Earth Sanctuary where you’ll get to know each other over a delicious Outback barbeque while the sun sets over the Eastern MacDonnell Ranges. Then, watch the Southern Sky come alive with constellations and stories on a guided star gazing experience with an astronomer. You’ll also get the chance to look through Earth Sanctuary’s Deep Sky Telescopes to spot a range of celestial objects.
Day 6 - West MacDonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon
Hit the road to Simpsons Gap in West MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja). Keep an eye out for rock wallabies on a guided walk through this spiritual site with a First Nations guide. They’ll share insights on the local flora and fauna and the story of the great Tjunba (Perentie) totem that protects the gorge. The walk will also take you along the riverbed that marks the boundary between the Eastern and Northern Arrernte tribes. Next, drive along the Stuart and Lasseter Highway and through the colourful semi-desert to Watarrka National Park, home to Kings Canyon. Your leader will take you along the Kings Creek Walk, following the trail between huge cliffs and ethereal rock formations. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place! Tonight enjoy an included dinner before an optional visit to the Light Towers – an immersive visual and aural display.
Day 7 - Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara
Spend the morning exploring the rugged Kings Canyon and do the famous rim walk up and across the Kings Canyon plateau. From the sandstone domes of the 'Lost City' to the oasis of the 'Garden of Eden', you’ll walk across red rock cliffs that protrude from the land and take in views of the palm forest below. Then hit the road again for a scenic drive across the sprawling landscape to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Arrive at Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a collection of 36 towering rock domes – and walk to a popular lookout to admire the formations. After, head to one of Australia’s most spiritually significant and iconic sites, Uluru. Enjoy the view from a prime location as the sun sets over the epic sandstone monolith – watching the landscape shift in colour is a sight you won’t soon forget!
Day 8 - Uluru / Yulara
Start the day early in one of the best ways imaginable: watching sunrise over Uluru. Then, walk across the rust-coloured landscape to a nearby waterhole where you'll see some traditional art sites. Your leader will shed light on the history and nature here and explain how the Anangu people are deeply connected to the lands. After, stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to continue learning about First Nations culture. Head back to Yulara to your hotel and say goodbye to your leader and any group members who may be finishing their travels today. You’ll be unaccompanied until the next meeting in Cairns tomorrow.
Day 9 - Yulara / Cairns
The free airport shuttle will take you from the hotel to Yulara Airport today, then you’ll fly to Cairns (flight not included). Cairns is also known as Gimuy, in the language of the Traditional Owners of the land on which Cairns is now located. This is the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the gorgeous Daintree Rainforest. The next part of your adventure officially starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your new trip leader and the new travellers joining you. Until then, why not check out the Cairns Botanical Gardens or wander the waterfront promenade, popping into a local bar. Later, head out with your group for an included dinner. 
Day 10 - Kuranda / Port Douglas
This morning after breakfast, soar over the world’s oldest tropical rainforest via the Skyrail that connects Cairns to the picturesque mountain village of Kuranda. You’ll glide along 7.5 km of cableway and admire the ancient landscape from a truly unique perspective. You’ll have some free time to explore this charming rainforest town and its surroundings – Kuranda is a delightful mix of colourful characters and natural beauty, perched at the top of a rainforest-clad mountain. You might like to check out the famous Kuranda Markets and village shopping or kick back and relax at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes, where outdoor dining is one of the joys of the cooler mountain climate. Drive along the coast to Port Douglas, taking in the ocean views and the cliffs covered in native flora. Tonight, head out on an orientation walk around Port Douglas, stopping at Trinity Bay Lookout Point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf. Then, head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to your accommodation for the evening. 
Day 11 - Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas
Today, you’ll visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest. When you arrive, head out on a one-hour crocodile and wildlife spotting boat tour along the Daintree River (Julaymba). On the electric Solar Whisper, you’ll hear the sounds of nature around you as you look out for crocs, birdlife, snakes, frogs, crabs and fish. Your experienced guide will be accustomed to the nuances of the river, the rainforest and the mangroves, meaning you’ll be able to find wildlife you wouldn’t be able to find on your own. After you find some feathered friends and long-toothed foes, head north to Cape Tribulation, stopping at Jindalba Boardwalk and a local ice cream factory on the way.  
Day 12 - Great Barrier Reef / Port Douglas
This morning, you’ll head out on a fantastic full-day boat tour from Port Douglas. Explore the stunning Coral Cays on the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing boat guided by marine biologists, who will share their passion and knowledge of the reef as you float along the expansive blue waters. Learn about the fragile environment, enjoy presentations on the reef by experts on board and head to an exclusive site for a spot of wildlife-focused snorkelling (equipment provided). There are vast coral gardens to explore at your own pace – as a protected and shallow area, you’ll see corals, giant clams, turtles and fish in their natural habitat. Enjoy a buffet lunch (including prawns) and afternoon tea on board (including local Daintree produce) while you continue to spot wildlife from the glass-bottomed boat. Tonight, enjoy a night to relax in Port Douglas after a spectacular day on the water.
Day 13 - Mossman Gorge / Palm Cove / Cairns
This morning, you’ll head to Mossman Gorge for a fascinating Ngadiku Dreamtime walking tour, led by a local Aboriginal guide. Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul) means stories and legends from a long time ago in the local Kuku Yalanji language and you’ll learn about these stories on a guided walk along private, gentle tracks, visiting culturally significant sites, traditional bark shelters and cool rainforest streams. Witness a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse and ward off bad spirits and then stroll through the lush rainforest, learning about traditional plant use, bush food sources and the connection to this unique tropical environment. After, enjoy a traditional bush tea and damper (a loaf or cake of flour and water that’s baked in wood ashes). Drive south to Palm Cove, stopping along the way to explore the scenic beachside town where you can grab some lunch. You can end your trip here or carry on to Cairns, where your trip will come to an end at approximately 4pm.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
21-08-202501-09-2025AUD $ 7,870-
02-10-202513-10-2025AUD $ 8,260-
30-10-202510-11-2025AUD $ 8,260-
13-11-202524-11-2025AUD $ 8,260-
25-12-202505-01-2026AUD $ 8,660-
08-01-202619-01-2026AUD $ 8,660-
22-01-202602-02-2026AUD $ 8,660-
05-02-202616-02-2026AUD $ 8,660-
19-02-202602-03-2026AUD $ 8,660-
05-03-202616-03-2026AUD $ 8,260-
19-03-202630-03-2026AUD $ 8,260-
15-04-202627-04-2026AUD $ 9,250-
13-05-202625-05-2026AUD $ 9,250-
10-06-202622-06-2026AUD $ 8,895-
24-06-202606-07-2026AUD $ 8,895-
08-07-202620-07-2026AUD $ 8,895-
22-07-202603-08-2026AUD $ 8,895-
05-08-202617-08-2026AUD $ 8,895-
19-08-202631-08-2026AUD $ 8,895-
02-09-202614-09-2026AUD $ 8,895-
16-09-202628-09-2026AUD $ 8,895-
07-10-202619-10-2026AUD $ 9,250-
21-10-202602-11-2026AUD $ 9,250-
04-11-202616-11-2026AUD $ 9,250-
18-11-202630-11-2026AUD $ 9,605-
02-12-202614-12-2026AUD $ 9,605-
16-12-202628-12-2026AUD $ 9,605-
06-01-202718-01-2027AUD $ 9,605-
20-01-202701-02-2027AUD $ 9,605-
03-02-202715-02-2027AUD $ 9,605-
17-02-202701-03-2027AUD $ 9,605-
03-03-202715-03-2027AUD $ 9,250-
17-03-202729-03-2027AUD $ 9,250-

Accommodation

Hotel (12 nights)

Transport

Private vehicle,Boat

Map

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