Australian Icons: Rock, Reef, Harbour & Wildlife

Arrive in the spiritual and geographical heart of Australia at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, home to Uluru, the deeply sacred natural landmark. Standing at 348 meters high, Uluru is considered one of the world's largest monoliths. The giant red rock plays a pivotal role in outback Australia's spellbinding natural landscape as well as the ancient culture of the Anangu people, the Traditional Owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Get up close to Uluru on a fascinating Kuniya walk to to Muṯitjulu Waterhole. Follow your guide along the path, keeping watch for wallabies who may be grazing among the tall grass, while you make your way to one of Uluru's only permanent water sources.

On arrival, take time to sit and take in the sights and sounds of this peaceful space and watch as the rock walls of Uluru gradually change with the colours of sunset. Afterwards, return to your hotel for a two-course dinner. Stay Two Nights: Uluru, Desert Gardens Hotel (D)

At sunrise, embark on a guided walk through Walpa Gorge, a natural creek bed that winds between two towering, ancient domes. Follow the gently sloping trail past sheer rock walls, rare plant species and spearwood trees into what's known as a desert refuge for lizards and lazing red kangaroos.

Return to your resort for lunch (own expense) and a chance to cool off in the pool before the opportunity to return to the national park to embark on the popular Mala walk. On this walk, explore ancient campsites, see the kitchen caves of the Mala people and admire rock art.

In the evening, enjoy the unique experience of ‘A Night at Field of Light.' Begin with a glass of sparkling wine before dining on a ‘bush tucker'-inspired buffet under the stars, accompanied by the sounds of a didgeridoo. As you dine, take in the breathtaking Field of Light art installation surrounding you. (B/D)

It's time to leave the vast, red desert of Uluru behind in favor of city skyscrapers and lively nightlife as you board your flight to Melbourne (flight not included). Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, bids you 'Wominjeka' (meaning ‘welcome' in the language of the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Owners of the Melbourne area). From its founding in 1835, Melbourne has grown into one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant arts scene and buzzing nightlife.

Upon arrival at the airport, be greeted and transferred to the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, a five-star, heritage-listed luxury hotel in the heart of the city. After unpacking and settling in, savor a delicious dinner at the celebrated Alluvial restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto (B/D)

After breakfast, join a local guide for a city walking tour - the perfect way to experience Melbourne. As your guide shares insights into the city's history and culture, visit iconic spots like Flinders Street Station, Chinatown, and ACDC Lane.

Afterwards, embark on a guided tour of Queen Victoria Market, a Melbourne landmark with over 145 years of history. Once the city's wholesale hub, the "Queen Vic" has evolved into a vibrant food lover's paradise, brimming with fresh produce, gourmet treats, artisanal products, and street food from around the world. Your guide will lead the way through the bustling food halls, uncovering local gems and international bites, offering a feast of flavors that highlight Melbourne's multicultural spirit.

From the cosmopolitan city center, set off on a trip to the spectacular natural wonders of Phillip Island. Your first stop is the Koala Conservation Reserve. Wander along tree-top boardwalks and take an up-close look at koalas in their natural habitat and explore the surrounding bushland, where local species of wallabies, echidnas, and birdlife thrive.

Next, you'll enjoy a memorable family-style Australian grill dinner at the Shearwater restaurant inside the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre. As night falls, Phillip Islands' world-famous Penguin Parade begins. From specially designed viewing platforms, marvel as hundreds of little penguins - the world's smallest penguin species - waddle ashore to their protected burrows. This is a true Aussie wildlife encounter that's not to be missed. (B/D)

This morning, board your flight from Melbourne to the laid-back beachside city of Cairns (flight not included), coined the gateway to Queensland's tropical north. Cradled between two World Heritage-listed wonders - the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest - Cairns is the ideal launchpad for a Far North Queensland adventure.

En route to your luxurious accommodation in Port Douglas, stop at the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest, where you can board the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition over the canopy of the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Known as the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest, this 130-million-year-old ecosystem is a testament to the resilience of nature.

Continue further north to Port Douglas where an unforgettable dining experience awaits at your hotel restaurant, Harrisons. The menu at Harrisons uses only the best-quality Australian produce to craft dishes inspired by the region. Experience the flavors of Far North Queensland during a degustation dinner this evening. Stay Two Nights: Port Douglas, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort (B/D)

Venture to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park for a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk led by a local Indigenous Australian guide. Follow the well-worn trails of the gorge, passing waterfalls, moss-covered trees and rare plant species towards culturally significant sites while your guide demonstrates traditional plant use, identifies bush food and shares Dreamtime stories.

In the afternoon, embark on a tour of the Great Barrier Reef to the Low Isles. This four-acre coral cay is surrounded by 55 acres of vibrant reef, which you can admire from your glass-bottom boat. Explore the island at your leisure, take a guided snorkeling tour with a marine biologist, swim with turtles, and marvel at the colorful coral gardens. Back on board, enjoy an informative reef talk from your skipper before indulging in a fresh, light lunch. (B/L)

Start your day with a unique dining experience at the Curlew Café. At this special Breakfast with the Birds event, savor delicious breakfast platters brimming with tropical antipasto, baked goods, eggs of the day and more, while enjoying the company of the local wildlife including the resident koala, and colourful birds like parrots, galahs and cockatoos. Afterwards, be transferred to Cairns's airport for your onward flight to Sydney (flight not included), Australia's largest city and the vibrant capital of New South Wales.

Upon arrival, be greeted and transferred to your five-star hotel, the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park. After ample time to relax and settle in, a delightful dinner awaits at your hotel's sophisticated restaurant, Sydney Common. Stay Two Nights: Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park (B/D)

The best of Sydney awaits with a sightseeing tour that combines the city's rich culture and coastal beauty. After breakfast at your hotel, embark on an insider's tour of Sydney Opera House. Accompanied by a local guide, go ‘beneath the sails' of this legendary performance arts centre to discover the story behind the incredible architecture, the famous performances and the fascinating history of this Australian masterpiece.

Afterwards, board the Manly Ferry at Circular Quay for the 30-minute trip to Manly, the charming beachside suburb famous for its stunning beaches, outdoor cafes and surf shops. The afternoon is yours to take in the coastal views or try the local seafood at one of Manly's renowned beachfront fish and chips eateries (own expense).

Continue to Bondi Beach - one of Australia's most celebrated beaches, loved by both locals and tourists alike. Take in the natural beauty, relaxed coastal living, and crystal-clear waters that define the quintessential Aussie beach experience.

Later, you'll be escorted to Darling Harbour where a super cruiser awaits to whisk you off on an unforgettable Sydney Harbour sunset dinner cruise. As your ship cruises at a leisurely four knots, savor a delicious three-course dinner while passing iconic sights, including the Prime Minister residence at Kirribilli House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the world-famous Sydney Opera House. (B/D)

Begin your final morning in Sydney with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)