This 13 day journey showcases some of Australia’s most remarkable natural and cultural landscapes, travelling from Sydney to Cairns through the Blue Mountains, Red Centre and Tropical North Queensland. Beginning in Sydney, travellers explore the historic precincts of The Rocks and Circular Quay before gaining valuable insight into First Nations culture during a Tribal Warrior Harbour Cruise. The journey continues into the Blue Mountains, where dramatic valleys, waterfalls, ancient caves and the famous Three Sisters reveal the beauty of this World Heritage listed region.
In the heart of Australia, travellers experience the spiritual significance and vast landscapes of the Red Centre. From guided cultural experiences in the West MacDonnell Ranges to the towering cliffs of Kings Canyon and the unforgettable sight of Uluru at sunrise and sunset, this region offers a powerful connection to country and culture. Encounters with local Traditional Owners provide a deeper understanding of Australia’s oldest living cultures.
The final stage of the journey explores Tropical North Queensland. Travellers glide above ancient rainforest to Kuranda, cruise the wildlife rich Daintree River, visit Cape Tribulation and spend a day discovering the Great Barrier Reef. A guided walk through Mossman Gorge offers a meaningful conclusion, sharing stories, traditions and knowledge that have been passed down through generations. Together, these experiences create a journey that highlights the extraordinary diversity of Australia and leaves a lasting appreciation for its landscapes, cultures and people.
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.
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.
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
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.
Special information
Your leader will choose the most appropriate walks for your group and the weather today, which might include the Three Sisters Walk (Grade1, about 25 to 45 minutes) and Wentworth Falls track (Grade 3, about 45 minutes to 1 hour).
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. 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.
Special information
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
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.
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.Please note that First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments.
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.
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!
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. Your trekking time today will be approximately 4 hours or 6 km. The King Canyon rim walk is a Grade 4 walk, which requires a good level of fitness and mobility. Your leader can suggest shorter options for those seeking an easier walk. Sturdy enclosed shoes are required for all walks within the national park. If the temperature is over 36 degrees, the Kings Canyon rim walk will be closed and an alternative activity will be provided.
To show respect for Uluru’s cultural and spiritual significance to the Anangu people, alcohol is not served at the sunset experience.
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.
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.
This morning, glide over the world’s oldest tropical rainforest on the Skyrail cable car that connects Cairns to the mountain village of Kuranda. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to explore this 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. Maybe wander through the Kuranda Markets and village shopping or simply 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. Later, take in scenic views of the ocean and cliffs covered in native flora as you drive along the coast to Port Douglas. Tonight, head out on an orientation walk around town, stopping at Trinity Bay Lookout Point to see the distinctive crescent of sand and surf. Later, head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers.
Today, you’ll visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest. When you arrive, head out on a 1-hour crocodile and wildlife spotting boat tour along the Daintree River (Julaymba). On the electric Solar Whisper, you’ll hear the sounds of nature as you look out for crocs, birdlife, snakes, frogs, crabs and fish. Your experienced tour 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. Later, head back to your accommodation and maybe find a local restaurant for dinner – your leader will have the best recommendations.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning, head out on a daytrip boat tour from Port Douglas to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Explore the stunning Coral Cays on the 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 and head to an exclusive site for a spot of wildlife-focused snorkelling. There are vast coral gardens to explore – as a protected and shallow area, you’ll see corals, giant clams, turtles and fish in their natural habitat. Enjoy a buffet lunch and afternoon tea on board, while you continue to spot wildlife from the glass-bottomed boat. Tonight, maybe join your group for dinner and toast to the final night of your trip.
After breakfast, travel to Mossman Gorge. When you arrive, set out on a Ngadiku Dreaming 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. As you walk, listen to these stories, visit culturally significant sites, traditional bark shelters and rainforest streams and learn about traditional plant use, bush food sources and the connection to this tropical environment. Watch a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse and ward off bad spirits, then sit down to a bush tea and damper (a loaf or cake of flour and water that’s baked in wood ashes). After, drive south to Palm Cove to explore the scenic beachside town and maybe grab some lunch.
You can end your trip here or carry onto Cairns, where your trip will come to an end at approximately 4 pm.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Group Size:
A maximum of 15 guests will be in the group. The group draws together a great variety of couples, independent travellers and friends travelling together.
Accommodation: Hotel (12 nights)
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 91 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 60 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
• Download Pack List
• All food is provided from morning tea on Day 1 to lunch on Day 12. Please ensure you advise us when booking if you have any special medical or dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate these. We are competent at catering for vegetarian, vegan, coeliac, lactose intolerance and similar medical dietary allergies.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.