20-Day Ultimate Australia | With Sailing
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Start in Sydney and chase the sun up Australia's legendary East Coast. Surf Byron Bay, sail through the Whitsundays, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and wander through the ancient Daintree Rainforest before venturing into the breathtaking Red Centre. Witness Uluru at sunrise, explore Kata Tjuta and hike the striking Kings Canyon. From Sydney to Uluru, this trip shows you every incredible side of Australia.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Itinerary
Welcome to Sydney! After meeting your Trip Manager and fellow travellers, we’ll head out on an orientation walk to get our bearings and tick off some of the city’s most iconic sights. Then the rest of the day is yours to explore. We’ll sort you out with a 2-day transport pass, making it easy to reach Sydney’s beaches, neighbourhoods and harbourfront hotspots. Stretch out on Bondi Beach, hit the shops or simply see where the day takes you. Tonight, you’re free to head out for dinner and discover the local food scene at your own pace.
Sydney, Australia
Australia's capital, Sydney, sits on the Tasman Sea. It is perhaps most well known for its Opera House, one of the most easily-recognized landmarks in the world. It is also home to a litany of one-of-a-kind plants and animals.
Today is yours to explore Sydney your way. Make the most of your included transport pass as you discover hidden neighbourhoods, track down your next great coffee, relax by the harbour or revisit your favourite beach. Looking for a serious bucket-list moment? You can choose to take on the famous Harbour Bridge Climb and see the city from a whole new perspective. Whatever's on your Sydney hit list, today's the perfect chance to tick it off.
Sydney, Australia
Australia's capital, Sydney, sits on the Tasman Sea. It is perhaps most well known for its Opera House, one of the most easily-recognized landmarks in the world. It is also home to a litany of one-of-a-kind plants and animals.
A full free day to spend just how you like? Yep! Water lovers can opt for a jetboat across the Harbour. And sky lovers can opt for an epic skydiving experience. But if staying on land is your thing, Sydney's beautiful sights are equally as exciting.
Sydney, Australia
Australia's capital, Sydney, sits on the Tasman Sea. It is perhaps most well known for its Opera House, one of the most easily-recognized landmarks in the world. It is also home to a litany of one-of-a-kind plants and animals.
With satisfaction levels at a high this morning we jump on a plane to Byron Bay where all your hippie dreams can come to life.Landing in Byron Bay (Cavvanbah), we'll drop off our bags at the accommodation and start as we mean to go on, heading straight to the beach. Here you'll have the chance to unleash your secret talent for surfing with an optional lesson. You'll be a pro in no time!
Byron Bay, Australia
Byron Bay is a beachside town located in the far-northeastern corner of the state of New South Wales, Australia. The town has several beaches which are popular for surfing. It is a resort popular with both domestic and international tourists. The area is also noted for its wildlife, with the whale watching industry a significant contributor to the local economy.
We'll continue the surf vibes today with the option to get limber and kickstart our day with an early morning yoga session. Then you have the rest of the day free to explore like a local. With the afternoon stretched out ahead of you, there's kayaking, relaxing on the beach and an evening bike tour to see glow worms in their natural habitat all on offer - your time here will be nothing short of magic.
Byron Bay, Australia
Byron Bay is a beachside town located in the far-northeastern corner of the state of New South Wales, Australia. The town has several beaches which are popular for surfing. It is a resort popular with both domestic and international tourists. The area is also noted for its wildlife, with the whale watching industry a significant contributor to the local economy.
It's time to wave goodbye to Byron Bay and head up the coast to Noosa Everglades. But first, why not opt for an early morning sunrise at Australia's most easterly point? We’ll also visit “The Farm” for a meaningful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where you’ll directly support the incredible work being done to sustain local farming and community initiatives. Relaxed from our time at the beach, we'll head to our next destination, the Noosa Everglades. Here we'll unpack at our Special Stay Eco Lodge home for the next two nights and relax with a group dinner in the bistro & bar area, surrounded by the chatter and rustling of local birds and kangaroos.
Byron Bay, Australia
Byron Bay is a beachside town located in the far-northeastern corner of the state of New South Wales, Australia. The town has several beaches which are popular for surfing. It is a resort popular with both domestic and international tourists. The area is also noted for its wildlife, with the whale watching industry a significant contributor to the local economy.
Noosa Everglades, Australia
Noosa Everglades is a hidden wetland in Queensland, known for its serene waterways and rich biodiversity.
Rise and shine! Today you’ll have the option to join a full-day adventure on K’gari (Fraser Island). If you’re joining, we’ll be up nice and early this morning (maybe even before the sun), so grab your brekkie and get ready for a day of epic island exploration. Then it's back to the Eco Camp this evening for our final night here. You have free time to tuck into some food at the bistro, sample the offerings at the CootharaBAR boutique brewery, or just relax and enjoy the lush surroundings of this beautiful protected National Park.
Noosa Everglades, Australia
Noosa Everglades is a hidden wetland in Queensland, known for its serene waterways and rich biodiversity.
What better way to wrap up The Glades than with an optional canoeing excursion through one of only two Everglades in the world? After we say goodbye to some of the group, we’re swapping still waters for the pristine beaches of the Whitsundays. Next stop: Airlie Beach. Touching down in Airlie Beach, things start looking a whole lot more tropical. This afternoon is yours to roam - cafes, ocean views and laidback backpacker energy included. Tonight, grab your favourites for dinner with your crew (some old, some new).
Airlie Beach, Australia
The gateway town to the Whitsundays in Queensland, known for its tropical climate, lagoon pool, and cruises to the Great Barrier Reef.
This morning we'll transfer to the marina and board a converted racing yacht - our home for the next 2 nights - ready to set sail over crystal clear waters. With 74 perfect islands at your fingertips, an open sea calling your name, today you'll get to explore one of the worlds most lusted-after holiday destinations with a day trip to the spotless Whitehaven Beach, including snorkelling. A freshly prepared lunch and dinner are waiting for you back on the yacht. This is as close to heaven as you can find on planet earth.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 islands off Australia's Queensland coast, famous for pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life.
Is there anywhere in the world more beautiful than the Whitsundays? We think not. We'll have more wonders to enjoy today as we spend the day cruising through the islands, enjoying freshly prepared meals on board, with endless opportunities to snorkel, swim and soak up those rays.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 islands off Australia's Queensland coast, famous for pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life.
Waking up on board the yacht this morning, we'll make our way to the shore. With our sights set on another beautiful island destination we'll board a coach, heading for Townsville. Here we'll board the ferry to our next destination. Magnetic Island (Yunbenun) is an apt name for this captivating isle, with its coastal walking trails and gum trees teeming with lazy koala bears. We'll have plenty of time to explore, try some water sports in the bright turquoise waters or meet some of the local marsupials, or maybe even hike to Hawkings Point Lookout. Oh, and of course end the day with a stunning sunset over the bay.
Magnetic Island, Australia
Magnetic Island is a tropical island near Townsville, Queensland, famous for its wild koalas, beautiful beaches, and bushwalking trails.
We have a whole day on this paradise island - lucky us! Check out some of the walking trails - such as the Forts Walk which offers up stunning views of the Palm Island Group as well as WWII fortifications, and the chance to see koalas in the wild - or enjoy some free time at Horseshoe bay, taking a dip on the azure waters and relaxing on the beach. See Magnetic Island's resident Rock Wallabies at dusk before a free evening, where we can watch the sunset and check out some of the local bars.
Magnetic Island, Australia
Magnetic Island is a tropical island near Townsville, Queensland, famous for its wild koalas, beautiful beaches, and bushwalking trails.
This morning we'll say farewell to our koala friends and depart Magnetic Island on a ferry. But we'll never forget its singular beauty.Back in Townsville we won't hang around too long, as we're hopping on a train headed to Cairns, where we'll arrive early evening after a gloriously scenic journey along Australia's East Coast.Welcome to the city of Cairns (Gimuy), where rainforests meet reefs. We'll enjoy one of the most memorable meals you've ever experienced today with our interactive Bush Food MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® tutorial and dinner. Learn about the history of Bush Food as you sample a variety of native spices and fruits, exploring their tastes, origins, and traditional uses before we enjoy our dinner, which features native game. It's an incredible cultural feast, and the perfect way to start our adventure in Cairns.
Magnetic Island, Australia
Magnetic Island is a tropical island near Townsville, Queensland, famous for its wild koalas, beautiful beaches, and bushwalking trails.
Cairns, Australia
The capital of Queensland, a profusion, leisurely city, four spring-like, surrounded by tropical rain forest region, has more than two thousand kilometers of the world's largest living coral reefs landscape, fascinating island of coastline, gem, silver beach and blue sea, known as "tropical capital". It is also the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Rise and shine. Today you’ll have the option to join an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, packed with history, heritage and natural beauty, as we take a spectacular day trip to the oldest tropical rainforest in the world: The Daintree.Tonight, we’ll keep the magic going with the option of a sunset boat cruise.
Cairns, Australia
The capital of Queensland, a profusion, leisurely city, four spring-like, surrounded by tropical rain forest region, has more than two thousand kilometers of the world's largest living coral reefs landscape, fascinating island of coastline, gem, silver beach and blue sea, known as "tropical capital". It is also the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Today you'll have the option to board a catamaran out to the reef to snorkel or dive in the crystal waters and gaze at the colourful coral and even more vibrant marine life. Back on board, the expert marine crew will tell us all there is to know about this stunning, but vulnerable, natural miracle. It's our final night together, so make the most of it!
Cairns, Australia
The capital of Queensland, a profusion, leisurely city, four spring-like, surrounded by tropical rain forest region, has more than two thousand kilometers of the world's largest living coral reefs landscape, fascinating island of coastline, gem, silver beach and blue sea, known as "tropical capital". It is also the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Today we have the chance to escape our comfort zones and try some of the adventurous activities that Cairns is famous for - think bungy jumping, skydiving and whitewater rafting. Or, sign up for a day trip on the scenic cable car, Skyrail. Gain a unique perspective of Australia's World Heritage listed tropical rainforest, gliding above the canopy before descending to the forest floor to continue your guided journey in the tropical hippie paradise of Kuranda, a village known for its appreciation of sustainable living and alternate therapies. Take the famous Kuranda Railway back to Cairns for a relaxing end to your day.
Cairns, Australia
The capital of Queensland, a profusion, leisurely city, four spring-like, surrounded by tropical rain forest region, has more than two thousand kilometers of the world's largest living coral reefs landscape, fascinating island of coastline, gem, silver beach and blue sea, known as "tropical capital". It is also the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
We’ll start bright and early today with a flight to Uluru which should get us there by mid morning. Say goodbye to some of your Contiki crew for now. Don't worry, there'll be more joining us in Uluru. Here in Uluru, you’ll have the chance to join an optional activity which will check out the Field of Lights: a spectacular art installation. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious included dinner with the group.
Uluru, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory in central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs, 450 km (280 mi) by road. Uluru is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It's time to explore the majesty of Uluru. And what better way to start the day than witnessing the rock bathed in the golden glow of sunrise? A sacred site for the local aboriginal tribe, this imposing rock is actually a staggering 700 million years old. We'll then get right into the heart of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with a hike to the Walpa Gorge and Valley of the Winds, where boulders bigger than skyscrapers dominate the landscape. This afternoon you'll have a chance to try out your skills with an optional Segway tour.
Uluru, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory in central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs, 450 km (280 mi) by road. Uluru is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Grab your sneakers, camera and your sense of adventure - it's time for a day trip! Our first stop is an included Big BBQ Brekkie at Kings Creek Station, then we're ready to go. Your guided hike around the imposing King's Canyon awaits. Wonder at the lunar-like landscape as you hike through the canyon and take respite from the sun in the shady space at the bottom of the climb, The Garden of Eden. It's as idyllic and mythical as it sounds and is home to its own unique ecosystem in this barren landscape. Finish the day off with a glass of bubbles in hand and the sunset casting a glow over the Outback's most picturesque backdrop, there's no better way to spend your final evening in Uluru.
Uluru, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory in central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs, 450 km (280 mi) by road. Uluru is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kings Canyon, Australia
A deep canyon in Watarrka National Park, Northern Territory, famous for its sandstone cliffs and hiking trails.
Uluru, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory in central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs, 450 km (280 mi) by road. Uluru is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This morning it's time to say our sad farewells to our Contiki family. Australia, it's been real. We may shed a tear, but we'll never forget what we've experienced together in this spectacular land. And just remember, it's not goodbye, just see you soon.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- AUSTRALIA: USA passport holders require a visa for Australia. Visa must be obtained prior to departure. We recommend applying 30-60 days prior to departure.
- IMPORTANT: Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
- DAY 1: The trip starts in Sydney at Wake Up! Sydney at 8:00am. Kick-start meeting will be held at 8:00am. It is not recommended to book flights arriving on the first day of the trip due to the eary start time.
- DAY 20: The trip ends in Uluru at Outback Hotel and Lodge at 12:00pm (noon). Although the final day of trip is listed to finish at 12:00pm, there are no inclusions scheduled for this morning and passengers can certainly depart prior to noon if their flight requires.
- PLEASE NOTE: Our multi-share rooms accommodate a maximum of 6 people of the same gender and our special 2 night sailing trip onboard a converted sailing yacht will have communal sleeping arrangements and shared facilities.
- WHITSUNDAYS SAILING: Accommodation onboard the Whitsundays Sailing option is multi-share only. Both Females and Males share the open-plan sleeping quarters. The boat is a converted sailing yacht, not a luxury yacht. Due to limited space on the 2-night Sailing passengers will be required to carry only a small carry-on bag on board the boat. The main luggage will be stored securely for these two nights.
- ROOMING: Single and Twin supplement do not apply in Magnetic Island. If either a Twin or Single room has been booked for the trip, the 2-night stay at Magnetic Island will be in Multi-share only.
- NOTE: Travelers have the option to pre-book an evening Sydney Bridge Climb and/or a pass to the Uluru Field of Lights. These can be added to the booking via associated products.
- INSURANCE: Comprehensive Travel Insurance is required for your Contiki trip.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
Sydney: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
Sydney: Contiki acknowledges the Traditional and Torres Strait Island owners of the land, sea and waters of the spectacular Australian continent. Dual-naming reflects that, as we explore this remarkable land, we recognise and respect Indigenous custodianship of a unique, ancient culture and country.
Yunbenun (Magnetic Island): During your 2-night stay in Magnetic Island, you’ll stay in multi-share rooms with the same sex even (if you’ve booked single or twin room for the trip duration). But if you’d like some privacy, you can request a paid upgrade to a single or twin room, but the confirmation would depend on availability.
Gimuy (Cairns): It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after your last dive before flying.
Airlie Beach: Pretty darn epic, if you ask us. It’s a converted racing yacht that sleeps up to 20 people with all the basic amenities. It’s snazzy – perfect if you’re all about fun adventures out on the sea.
Sydney: Contiki acknowledges the Traditional and Torres Strait Island owners of the land, sea and waters of the spectacular Australian continent. Dual-naming reflects that, as we explore this remarkable land, we recognise and respect Indigenous custodianship of a unique, ancient culture and country.
Yunbenun (Magnetic Island): During your 2-night stay in Magnetic Island, you’ll stay in multi-share rooms with the same sex even (if you’ve booked single or twin room for the trip duration). But if you’d like some privacy, you can request a paid upgrade to a single or twin room, but the confirmation would depend on availability.
Gimuy (Cairns): It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after your last dive before flying.
Airlie Beach: Pretty darn epic, if you ask us. It’s a converted racing yacht that sleeps up to 20 people with all the basic amenities. It’s snazzy – perfect if you’re all about fun adventures out on the sea.
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