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9 Day Gulf Savannah Wanderer
Escorted Small Group starting in Cairns and finishing in Cairns
Countries Visited: Australia 
Tour Type: Explorer
Tour Duration: 9 Days (8 Nights)
From: Cairns to Cairns
Tour Code: QGS
Operator: AAT Kings
from AU $2,845 pp
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Tour Description

The Gulf Savannah Wanderer is a 9 day all overland accommodated safari through North Queensland's Gulf Country and lower Cape York - a land of real outback characters, bush pubs, wedge-tailed eagles and wallaroos, hot springs and cool rivers, and a rich history of Aboriginal culture, explorers and pioneers.

Tour Inclusions:

  • Full Buffet Breakfasts (8) (B)
  • Lunch (7) (L)
  • Delicious 2 Course Dinners (7) (D)
  • Travel Wallet & Map
  • Tour with an experienced, professional Safari Leader
  • Hotel, lodge and cabin style accommodation in remote locations
  • Tour by unique purpose built 4WD air-conditioned vehicle, Australia wide communications, panoramic windows (maximum 13 passengers)

Included Tour Highlights:

  • Savannahlander & Gulflander Train Journeys
  • Chillagoe Limestone Caves
  • Karumba Gulf Sunset Cruise
  • Burke & Wills Camp #119
  • Adel's Grove
  • Lawn Hill National Park
  • Leichhardt Falls
  • Riversleigh Fossil Fields
  • Croydon's Historic Precinct
  • Cobbold Gorge Cruise
  • Undara Lava Tubes
  • Mt. Hypipamee National Park
  • Curtain Fig Tree National Park

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Day
1
Cairns – Chillagoe
Depart Cairns at 7.00am. We start by winding our way up the Kuranda Range to climb on to the Atherton Tableland. We pass dense tropical rainforest and an agricultural landscape to Mareeba and beyond. We travel on to Chillagoe, an historic ore-smelting centre, better known today for its marble mining and limestone caves. We take a tour of the caves, the legacy of 350 million years old marine reef. We overnight in Chillagoe. Stay: Chillagoe Eco Lodge (L/D)
Day
2
Georgetown
All aboard the “Savannahlander” train as it tracks the Ootann Road into Brahman cattle country. Geology continues to dominate and fascinate as we change from limestone to granite to basalt country and with each geological change, a change in vegetation. Lunch along the way in this vast landscape provides a “fair dinkum” Aussie day. Now we head west across the Newcastle Range to Georgetown where we stay overnight. Stay: Latara Motel (B/L/D)
Day
3
Karumba
Morning "smoko" on the shore of Croydon’s Lake Belmore before continuing on to Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria. Lunch is at your own expense today. A leisurely afternoon before taking a cruise to enjoy a spectacular Gulf sunset. We overnight in Karumba. Dinner is at your own expense this evening. Stay: Karumba Lodge Hotel (B)
Day
4
Adel's Grove
On through Normanton this morning and a poignant visit to Burke & Wills Camp #119, the most northerly campsite of the ill-fated expedition of 1860. Across the vast “Plains of Promise” to Leichhardt Falls and Burketown. On to Adel’s Grove, a Savannah Guides Site, where we spend two glorious outback nights in permanent tent safari accommodation. Stay: Tented cabins with linen provided (Share Facilities) (2 nights) (B/L/D)
Day
5
Lawn Hill National Park
A relaxed day enjoying Lawn Hill National Park, a spectacular oasis set amid the spinifex clad Constance Range. The gorge is a haven for an abundance of wildlife and a birdwatcher's paradise. Swimming or paddling a canoe (optional) up the gorge is fun and highly recommended. Return to Adel’s Grove tonight. (B/L/D)
Day
6
Normanton
A visit to the World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields, a rare treasure house of palaeontology recording the history of Australia’s fauna of 20 million years ago. Lunch at Gregory and a short break at remote Burke & Wills Roadhouse before travelling on to Normanton. Here you can absorb its famous landmarks, the "Purple Pub", historic Burns Philp General Store, a replica of Krys, the 8.63m crocodile and its famous Victorian architecture Railway Station, home of the "Gulflander". We stay in Normanton tonight. Stay: Gulfland Motel (B/L/D)
Day
7
Cobbold Gorge
All aboard the historic “Gulflander RM93” train, a Savannah Guides Site, for a ride through the savannah landscape across the Norman River to Critters Camp. On to Black Bull Siding then the old gold mining town of Croydon and its Historic Precinct. This afternoon we visit Georgetown and Forsayth on our way to Cobbold Gorge, a Savannah Guides Station, where we stay tonight. Stay: Cobbold Gorge (B/L/D)
Day
8
Undara Lava Tubes
This morning we cruise on Cobbold Gorge’s beautiful and secluded waterway surrounded by spectacular carved Hampstead sandstone, 135 million years old. Travel on to the famous Undara Lava Tubes, a Savannah Guides Station. There's campfire entertainment after dinner before retiring to your accommodation in faithfully restored antique railway carriages. Stay: Undara Lava Lodge, (Share Facilities) (B/L/D)
Day
9
Cairns
Breakfast in the Australian bush before enjoying a guided tour of the fascinating 190,000 years old lava tubes, a geological spectacle said to be the largest in the world. Visit Ravenshoe, Queensland’s highest town for lunch (own expense) before Mt Hypipamee (The Crater) National Park and the Atherton Tableland’s unique Curtain Fig Tree. Now we descend to the lush green coastal plain and Cairns to end your adventure in the remarkable Gulf Savannah region, arriving at approximately 6.00pm. (B)
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Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Season Sale! Save up to $500 per couple. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month only to qualify! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

START DATE END DATE BROCHURE
(Twin Share)
BROCHURE
(Single)
OUR
SAVINGS
OUR
PRICE
23 May 2012 31 May 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
30 May 2012 07 Jun 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
06 Jun 2012 14 Jun 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
13 Jun 2012 21 Jun 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
20 Jun 2012 28 Jun 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
27 Jun 2012 05 Jul 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
04 Jul 2012 12 Jul 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
11 Jul 2012 19 Jul 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
18 Jul 2012 26 Jul 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
25 Jul 2012 02 Aug 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
01 Aug 2012 09 Aug 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
08 Aug 2012 16 Aug 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
15 Aug 2012 23 Aug 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
22 Aug 2012 30 Aug 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
29 Aug 2012 06 Sep 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
05 Sep 2012 13 Sep 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
12 Sep 2012 20 Sep 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
19 Sep 2012 27 Sep 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
26 Sep 2012 04 Oct 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
03 Oct 2012 11 Oct 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
10 Oct 2012 18 Oct 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
17 Oct 2012 25 Oct 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845
24 Oct 2012 01 Nov 2012 AU $3,095 AU $3,430 Save $250 AU $2,845

Note: Tour is not suitable for children under 7 years of age. Prices may vary because of fuel surcharge or changes in statutory taxes or charges. Operated by Wilderness Challenge.

Tour Discounts & Options:

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  Click on the descriptions below for more detail. We will apply all valid discounts automatically to your quote to provide you with the best possible price. Terms & Conditions apply to the discounts below.

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General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: AAT Kings

AAT KingsAn AAT Kings escorted coach tour is the hassle-free freeway to holiday. Everything has been arranged in advance so travellers don't have to worry about getting lost, finding attractions and reading maps or speeding tickets. On an AAT Kings tour, there is a perfect balance of planned sightseeing and free time for independent exploration or just relaxing and doing nothing at all.


Tour Type: Explorer

Contiki Camping ToursGet off the beaten track and explore some of a region's less accessible locations while staying in a mix of quality accommodation styles. AAT Kings Explorer tours average around 20 travellers on itineraries small enough for a more intimate experience, but large enough to meet plenty of other like-minded travellers.


Frequently Asked Questions

Will the coach be comfortable and modern?

Yes, AAT Kings have one of the newest coach fleets in Australia. Their modern and luxurious Mercedes Benz and Scania coaches are equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, seatbelts, restrooms, two door access, ample legroom and large panoramic windows, so you won't miss a thing.

What does it mean if I book on a non Guaranteed Departure?

AAT Kings have designated certain departures as Guaranteed Departures, which means they have reached minimum passenger numbers and will definitely run as scheduled. Global Journeys continue to add Guaranteed Departure status to tours online as they achieve minimum numbers. If you book on a non Guaranteed Departure AAT Kings will determine if the tour will operate no later than 6 weeks prior to departure. If the tour is withdrawn we will work to offer you a suitable alternative. If you aren't happy with the options offered any money paid on your booking will be refunded.

What documentation will I receive?

This depends on the touring style you are booking. Short Break bookings will receive e-documentation. If you are booking an AAT Kings escorted tour (Premium, Cost Saver, Explorer or Camping) you will receive paper documents in a complimentary leather travel wallet as well as luggage labels and a useful booklet containing valuable holiday information. You will also receive a map of the region you are visiting when you get on tour.

When will I receive my travel documents?

Documents for AAT Kings guided tours are delivered to the hotel or address you are staying at prior to your tour depending on the tour type chosen. We also provide you with a tour itinerary and arrival instructions by email, once we have all your flight information and personal details.

What is the difference between the different tour types?

To suit all different holiday styles AAT Kings offer a range of different touring types.

  • Premium tours are guided by a Tour Director and Driver and include more luxurious accommodation and facilities, more meals and exclusive dining experiences as well as extra sightseeing and cultural highlights.
  • CostSaver tours are designed to offer value for money with clean and comfortable accommodation, breakfast daily, some dinners and plenty or free time, while also benefiting from an expert Tour Director and Driver throughout.
  • Explorer tours are run in our luxury mini-coach vehicles and average around 20 travellers. These active itineraries explore less accessible locations, stay in a mix of Premium tour standard accommodation and character-filled boutiques and are escorted by a dedicated Driver guide.
  • Short Breaks showcase the highlights of a region or city in a short time, they allow extra flexibility as standalone or pre or post tour options. Short Breaks are run by our expert Driver guides.

Who travels on AAT Kings Queensland tours?

With such a diverse range of destinations and touring styles there is no set age or type who travel with AAT, you can expect a wide-range of like-minded travellers. Families with children, young couples, baby boomers, solo travellers, small groups and more can be found on our Guided tours. There is certainly no age limit for touring, with children as young as 6 through to seniors travelling, however, the general demographic tends to be over 40. As AAT Kings is sold internationally you will also find that there are people from all over the world on their tours, particularly North Americans, British, Europeans and many Asian nations.

How many other people will I be travelling with?

Depending on the tour you choose and the time of year you are travelling our group sizes can vary from fewer than 21 people up to 50 people, so there is a great opportunity to mingle and make new friends.

Do I need to tip my Tour Director, Driver or Driver guide?

While it's not compulsory in Australia or New Zealand, tipping is becoming an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis. Likewise on your AAT Kings tour, if you feel that your Tour Director, Driver, Driver guide or Private cook has done an excellent job, then we would recommend tipping up to the equivalent of AU $5 per day. However, it's not compulsory. It is up to you!

What options do I have if I am travelling alone?

The beauty of travelling with AAT Kings is that you won't be travelling alone. You'll have a group of like-minded travellers and soon to be friends to share in the experience with. They also offer a room matching service on all Guided tours (not applicable on Explorer or Short Breaks) so you don't have to pay a single room supplement. AAT Kings room matching service means they will work to match you with another solo traveller of the same sex but if they can't they will provide a single room at no extra cost.

Can I travel with children on your Guided tours?

Yes, they can accommodate children, however they must be over 6 years of age. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. AAT Kings do recommend that people travelling with children consider whether the itinerary is suitable, in particular the activities involved and the duration of the tour to ensure children's comfort.

Where can I find out more information on AAT Kings?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on AAT Kings including more FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on what to expect on tour, and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their tours. Read more> (NB: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).


Airport Transfer Information

Free Airport Transfers

AAT Kings offers a hotel or airport transfer at the start and end of your tour, or in-conjunction with pre or post accommodation booked with Global Journeys & AAT Kings. All flight information must be given to Global Journeys at least 6 weeks prior to departure so that transfers can be booked. If you book your own pre or post accommodation then transfers cannot be included.

AAT Kings Short Breaks in the Northern Territory only include airport transfers in Ayers Rock (these meet all incoming flights and leave Ayers Rock 2 hours prior to your departure flight time). In Alice Springs and Darwin they have a range of transfer options negotiated at competitive prices.


Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!

 

Kirby O'Connor

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Kirby O'Connor
Aussie & Kiwi Specialist
Email: kirby@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: Australian & New Zealand Touring Specialist
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Chillagoe Limestone CavesSavannahlander Train JourneyLawn Hill National ParkGulflander Train JourneyUndara CarriagesUndara Lava Tubes
 
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