Sydney, Rock and Reef

Enjoy a half day tour of Downtown Sydney, Bondi and Kings Cross as well as taking a harbour cruise which is a thorough introduction to Sydney and its neighbours.

Visit the historic Rocks area and take in views of the Opera House, St Mary’s Cathedral, Parliament House, Hyde Park and the Art Gallery. Stop at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for magnificent views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Then it’s on to the world-famous Bondi Beach to see surfers galore and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Return to Sydney, travelling through Paddington and the exclusive Eastern suburbs.

Overnight in Sydney.

We’ll pick you up from your hotel to take you to the airport for your flight to Ayers Rock.

Upon arrival, you’ll check into The Voyages Outback Pioneer Hotel – a 3 ½ star hotel with comfortable, affordable hotel rooms, perfect for the demands of travellers looking for quality service in relaxed surrounds.

This evening you’ll head to Uluru to watch the sunset. Your first stop allows you a photographic opportunity of this amazing icon. With Uluru looming in front of you, your guide journeys toward the base. Walk with your guide to a place of tranquillity. The closer you wander the more you surrender to the realisation of the sheer size of this monolith.

It’s an early start this morning as you set off to watch sunrise at Kata Tjuta. You’ll take a 40km journey through the desert landscape to the mighty rock formation. On arrival at the viewing area you walk to the best vantage point to see the 36 domes that comprise this spiritual place while watching the sun’s morning glow as the desert comes alive.

Your group will make its way to the western side of Kata Tjuta where you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy a gourmet picnic breakfast. As you approach the entrance to Walpa Gorge, named for the wind (Walpa) that whistles between the massive domes that shape Kata Tjuta, the result of eons of weathering and continual upheaval, your guide will share the significance of this men’s sacred ceremonial site.

Take a stroll between these mighty conglomerate rock walls as your guide explains how the environment and the geology has evolved over millions of years.

In the evening you can choose to taste Australia’s pioneering past, as you enjoy a beer and some outback delights at the do-it-yourself Outback BBQ.

Alternatively, opt for the peace and quiet of the Bough House Restaurant with a buffet dinner.

You’ll be taken to the airport for your flight to Cairns. On arrival we’ll arrange for you to be picked up and taken to Cairns Plaza Hotel.

Cairns Plaza is located right on the waterfront, a short stroll from the main shopping precinct, boasting some of Cairns’ most spectacular views across Trinity Bay and surrounding mountains.

Today’s your chance to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

Depart direct from Cairns on a fast, stable catamaran providing a smoother ride and reduced travel time, leaving more of your day to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

The all-weather Marine World platform caters for all activity levels with a range of optional activities. Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon, go scuba diving (no experience necessary) or join the Marine Biologist on a Guided Snorkel safari. Not a confident swimmer? Then stay dry and view the reef from the semi-submersible reef viewer, glass bottom boat or underwater observatory, try a Helmet Dive for a scuba-style experience without getting your hair wet, or soar above it all on a spectacular Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight.

With five hours at the reef there is time to do it all. If simply relaxing & soaking up the tropical warmth is more your style then take time out on the spacious sundeck where you will also find the region’s only reef-based massage therapist.

Day at leisure. We suggest a day trip to Port Douglas today to explore the rainforest. The Daintree Rainforest is a stunning natural wonder and is estimated to be 135 million years old. It is also the only place in the world where two different World Heritage-listed sites meet – the reef and the rainforest.

Depart Australia for your onward journey.