Overview
Read reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 12 Day Explore Australia. Experience the wonders of the land down under, journeying from sunny Sydney to the edge of the Great Barrier Reef and into the heart of the mystical Red Centre. Meet members of Australia’s indigenous community—the world’s oldest living culture—in Daintree Rainforest and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park; get up close to fascinating marine creatures at a research aquarium founded by a National Geographic grantee; and cap off your adventure in quirky, colourful Melbourne.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Operator
G Adventures
1 Trip Review
Avg. Rating: 5/5
Trip Style
National Geographic Journeys
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
OAXNG
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and enjoy exploring the city before joining the welcome meeting at 6pm. If you arrive early enough, you'll have time to head into the city to visit The Rocks neighbourhood, the Australian Museum, Bondi Beach, or Darling Harbour.
Included Experiences
- Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Enjoy a traditional welcome ceremony this morning, followed by a guided tour of the historic Rocks district. This waterfront neighbourhood marks the spot of the first European settlement in Australia, and holds a spiritual significance for the area’s indigenous people. In the afternoon, board a private yacht for a sunset cruise and barbecue dinner on the Sydney Harbour, taking in views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Metro: Get around underground via public transit.
- The Rocks Indigenous Dreaming and Welcome Tour: Enjoy a traditional Indigenous welcome and acknowledgement of the Earth Mother in a clapstick ceremony. Continue on a walkabout around The Rocks area and Sydney Harbour to learn the history of the Indigenous people’s saltwater heritage and their spiritual connection to the area. Our Indigenous guide will explain how the cosmopolitan Sydney of today continues to weave the Dreamtime Southern X text into it’s modern environment. Explore how to experience contemporary Indigenous society and ancient wisdom right in the heart of the city.
- Sydney Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise: Board a private yacht and enjoy a four-hour cruise navigating the bays and coves of Sydney Harbour. Relax and enjoy the iconic scenery as our crew share stories of Sydney and its famed harbour. Enjoy a casual Aussie BBQ as the sun sets over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House and watch the city lights come alive across the water.
Fly to Cairns and travel up the scenic coastal road to Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on an interpretive walk with an indigenous guide at the lush Mossman Gorge, learning about the traditional ways of life of the region’s Kuku Yalanji people. Continue to the resort town of Port Douglas, our home for the next two nights. We catch a very early flight to ensure we make the most of the day.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Taxi: Jump in the back and tell the driver to step on it, just like they do in the movies.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Indigenous Peoples Interpretive Walk: Take an interpretive walk through the Daintree Rainforest. Follow an Indigenous guide and learn about bush food, medicinal plants and the lasting relationship of the Kuku Yalanji people with their natural environment. Find out how to make bush soap, watch an ochre painting demonstration and sample some bush tea.
Enjoy a day of leisure in charming Port Douglas. Stroll the town’s boutique-lined streets and idyllic beaches.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Today is a free day, but we recommend going on an optional snorkelling or diving trip of the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world.
Optional Experiences
- Great Barrier Reef Diving from Port Douglas: Experience the largest coral reef in the world from beneath the ocean's surface on a scuba diving day trip. The Great Barrier Reef teems with 1500 species of tropical fish, as well as whales, dolphins and porpoises. Bring an underwater camera and go crazy! Please be aware that if you decide to book the optional scuba diving activity in the Great Barrier Reef and are taking any prescription medications, you will need a doctor’s release giving you permission to dive. (301.50-450 AUD per person)
Return to the tropical city of Cairns and visit James Cook University for a behind-the-scenes tour of its research aquarium, founded by marine biologist and National Geographic Grantee Dr Jamie Seymour. Get an up-close view of some of the aquarium’s fascinating creatures, from sea snakes to box jellyfish, and hear about the latest aquatic research from Jamie or one of his colleagues.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Free time to explore the famed city of Cairns.
- James Cook University Research Aquarium: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the James Cook University research aquarium, founded by marine biologist and National Geographic grant recipient Dr. Jamie Seymour. Jamie has studied Australia's venomous marine creatures for over 20 years. We'll enjoy an exclusive tour of the facility (not normally open to the public), get an up-close look at some of these marvellous creatures, and hear about the latest research from Jamie or one of his colleagues.
Spend the day on your own in beautiful Cairns, relaxing at the beach or setting out on an optional excursion. Choose to go scuba diving or snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, which teems with thousands of marine species, or enjoy spectacular views along the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: There's plenty to see and do in Cairns, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, whitewater rafting, and skydiving. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Experiences
- Great Barrier Reef Diving from Cairns: Experience the largest coral reef in the world from beneath the ocean's surface on a scuba diving day trip. Packages vary and include 1, 2, or 3 dives in a day. The Great Barrier Reef teems with 1500 species of tropical fish, as well as whales, dolphins and porpoises. Bring an underwater camera and go crazy! Please be aware that if you decide to book the optional scuba diving activity in the Great Barrier Reef and are taking any prescription medications, you will need a doctor’s release giving you permission to dive. (245-289 AUD per person)
- Skydiving: Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Cairns from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high above the land and sea. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like! (310-400 AUD per person)
- Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling from Cairns: Don a mask and snorkel the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. Say g'day to Nemo, the clown fish, and some of the 1,500 other species of tropical fish that thrive in the warm waters off Australia's east coast. Depending on availability of Dive Instructors, an upgrade to SCUBA diving may be possible but is by no means guaranteed. Please speak to your CEO to see if this is available.
- Bungee Jumping: Leave your fears at home and prepare to have your breath taken away as you jump from 164ft. Now's the time to release your inner daredevil – what are you waiting for?
- Skyrail Experience : Kuranda to Smithfield: Settle into a comfortable 6 seat gondola for a ride with a spectacular view along the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Pass over the canopy one of Australia's tropical rainforests, so close to the tree tops it's as if you could reach out and touch the leaves. After, ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway through a lush tropical paradise framed by rugged mountains, waterfalls and ravines back to Cairns. Travel on authentic timber carriages via hand-hewn tunnels and across towering bridges, through the awe-inspiring Barron Gorge. Experience the exotic beauty of North Queensland’s tropical rainforests, marvelling at the incredible array of plants and animals encountered all along the way. (116-171 AUD per person)
Catch a flight to Uluru, in the heart of the Australian outback. Visit the Cultural Centre of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and learn about the beliefs and customs of the Anangu, the area’s traditional indigenous owners. Cap off the day with a glass of sparkling wine as you witness a crimson sunset over the fabled Uluru monolith. Accommodations in Uluru are limited and of varying amenities. We do our best to secure a mid-range hotel, but on occasion a more simple accommodation with fewer amenities may be used.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Free Time: Relax and watch the sunset over Uluru
- Sunset at Uluru: Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine while watching the sunset over Uluru. Marvel at the changing colours over the desert and keep reminding yourself that yes, you really are there.
- Indigenous Cultural Centre Visit: Learn about Indigenous Australian culture in the area to get a better perspective of the history, beliefs and present-day life of the Anangu people. Discover the wild world of bush tucker (indigenous food), find out which plants are used in bush medicine, and hear creation stories.
Awake at dawn to take in an unforgettable sunrise over Uluru, then delve into a full-day exploration of the ancient, red-hued landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Set out on a guided walk around the base of the monolith, gaining insight into its sacred significance to the Anangu. Later, make your way to Kata Tjuta, Uluru’s neighbouring natural wonder. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Uluru Mala Walk: Take a guided walk along the northwest side of Uluru to learn about the history of the area, hear the stories of the Anangu people and gaze upon these awe-inspiring uplifted sandstone rock formations.
- Free Time: Enjoy some time at leisure.
- Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: Take a walk in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to explore the beautiful, red, domed rocks that comprise the site. While Uluru is the most famous landmark in the park, we explore a bit further afield to enjoy this stunning landscape.
Optional Experiences
- Uluru Helicopter Flight: See some of the highlights of the red centre from a bird's-eye view. Take to the air and choose between a 15-minute loop around Uluru, or opt to also see Kata Tjuta on a 25-minute flight. (180-360 AUD per person)
- Outback Astronomy Tour: Enjoy a tour of the night sky, learning how Indigenous people of Australia used the stars for mythology and seasonal predictions while getting a chance to stargaze through telescopes and binoculars. The Outback is one of the best places to stargaze, with low humidity and surrounding light - take a peek and see whats out there! (60-70 AUD per person)
Enjoy one last sunrise over spectacular Uluru before catching a flight to Melbourne, known as the cultural capital of Australia.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Taxi: Jump in the back and tell the driver to step on it, just like they do in the movies.
Spend the day exploring vibrant Melbourne. Set out on an optional excursion on the Great Ocean Road, one of the most picturesque coastal drives in the world; visit some of the region’s top wineries; or wander the city’s narrow cobbled lanes and alleys, discovering quirky cafés and colourful murals.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Melbourne is full of things to do – take advantage of this free day and get out to explore!
Optional Experiences
- Great Ocean Road Day excursion: Enjoy an excursion along the Great Ocean Road showcasing some of Australia's most scenic coastal views. (144-195 AUD per person)
- Myki Explorer Public Transportation Pass: From St. Kilda to Fitzroy, make the most of your time in Melbourne with a Myki Transportation Pass, giving you access to all tram travel throughout the city.
- Yarra Valley Wine Tour: The Yarra Valley is home to dozens of vineyards and wineries set along the banks of the Yarra River itself. It is considered on of Victoria's premier wine regions making it an idyllic escape from Melbourne. Stroll the grounds of these establishments, sip a glass of chardonnay, and relax in this beautiful setting. (175-200 AUD per person)
Embark on a food tour of Melbourne with a local author and culinary storyteller. Home to many thriving immigrant communities, Melbourne has long been considered one of Australia’s gastronomic hubs. On this foodie walk through the city’s famed laneways, we’ll enjoy lunch at three popular venues and experience a range of flavours and cuisines. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Free time to explore the city or take an excursion.
- Melbourne Foodie Walk: Melbourne has long been considered a major centre for foodie culture in Australia. As home to many immigrant communities, the gastronomic expertise on offer here is both diverse and exciting. Explore this incredible city on a National Geographic Journeys-exclusive guided walk. Enjoy lunch at three popular venues that showcase why contemporary dining in Melbourne is such a special experience. Through European flavours as well as those from across Asia, you’ll gain a greater understanding of the city’s history, its people, and its celebrated (and gorgeous) laneways.
Optional Experiences
- Myki Explorer Public Transportation Pass: From St. Kilda to Fitzroy, make the most of your time in Melbourne with a Myki Transportation Pass, giving you access to all tram travel throughout the city.
Depart at any time. If you want more time to explore Melbourne, we recommend booking post nights with your agent
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Trip Inclusions
- Experience the Red Centre and witness the majesty of Uluru at sunrise.
- Discover Melbourne's hidden laneways.
- Tour the James Cook University Aquarium.
- Enjoy an Indigenous experience in the heart of Sydney's waterfront.
- Your Journeys Highlight Moment: The Rocks Indigenous Dreaming and Welcome Tour, Sydney
- Your Journeys Highlight Moment: James Cook University Research Aquarium, Cairns
- Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Melbourne Foodie Walk, Melbourne
- Your Discover Moment: Cairns
- Sydney Harbour cruise
- Indigenous dreamtime walk through the Daintree Rainforest at Mossman Gorge
- Sunrise interpretive walk at Uluru
- Walk through Walpa Gorge in Kata Tjuta
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicle, plane, boat, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
- Hotels (11 Nights)
- 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Journeys
These small group tours combine meaningful cultural experiences with upgraded comfort and expert insight. Many itineraries include visits to community projects supported by G Adventures or National Geographic, offering a chance to connect with people and places in a more impactful way.
With more inclusions than other travel styles, character-filled accommodations and exclusive pre-trip reading to set the scene, these adventures are ideal for travelers who want to explore thoughtfully and return inspired.
Trip Reviews (1)
The best of the best 1
Hannah, United States, Jan 2019
My trip to Australia was just as amazing as my last one. Once again Juliet was a great help and she truly set me up with one of the best tours there was on offer. The National Geographic tour was one of the highest rated tours and it truly showed! I got the best of the best on this trip. I loved traveling to the desert and seeing Uluru and also getting read more to see some koalas on the Great Ocean Road. Unforgettable for sure.
The only thing I was somewhat nervous about was when I first showed up for the welcome meeting the age demographic was a lot older than me and I'm not sure if I was warned about this before I booked the tour. Definitely not Juliet's fault, since I had already had a different travel agent who left on maternity leave before I was put in touch with Juliet. I stayed positive though and still found a way to make friends even though they were 50 years older than I am. My tour guide was young, along with a couple of other people in the group so I stuck with them and really made some friends that I will never forget there as well.
Australia was absolutely beautiful and there were so many opportunities to explore each city and do optional activities. I think for this trip, my G Adventures tour guide made it amazing.
The only thing I was somewhat nervous about was when I first showed up for the welcome meeting the age demographic was a lot older than me and I'm not sure if I was warned about this before I booked the tour. Definitely not Juliet's fault, since I had already had a different travel agent who left on maternity leave before I was put in touch with Juliet. I stayed positive though and still found a way to make friends even though they were 50 years older than I am. My tour guide was young, along with a couple of other people in the group so I stuck with them and really made some friends that I will never forget there as well.
Australia was absolutely beautiful and there were so many opportunities to explore each city and do optional activities. I think for this trip, my G Adventures tour guide made it amazing.
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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