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Aboriginal Australia

Australia is one of the world’s great cultural destinations. With 40,000 years of Aboriginal history, there’s plenty to learn about on this fascinating tour. Highlighting culturally focused destinations in the ‘Red Centre’ and the ‘Top End‘ of the Northern Territory, you’ll experience a fascinating insight into the history of Australia’s indigenous people. This tour is perfect for the northern hemisphere’s summer months (May to September), as this is the dry season in northern Australia and temperatures are at their most comfortable, although it’s possible at any time of the year.

ITINERARY

Day 1 - Arrive Sydney (3 nights)

Day 2 - Sydney City Tour

Day 3 - At Leisure in Sydney

Day 4 - Fly to Uluru (3 nights)

Day 5 - Uluru

Day 6 - Kata Tjuta

Day 7 - Fly to Darwin, transfer to Kakadu (2 nights)

Day 8 - Kakadu

Day 9 - Return to Darwin, fly to Cairns/ Great Barrier Reef (5 nights)

Day 10 - At Leisure in Cairns

Day 11 - Daintree Aboriginal Dreaming Rainforest Experience

Day 12 - Cooktown and Rainbow Serpent Aboriginal Art Tour

Day 13 - Great Barrier Reef

Day 14 - Fly Home or Extend Your Trip

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Australia

Upon arrival at Sydney’s modern Kingsford Smith International Airport you will be met by your driver and escorted to your centrally located hotel by private vehicle. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, to recover from the long journey and get a first taste of this exciting city.

Day 2 - Sydney City Tour

This morning you will enjoy a guided tour of Sydney. After meeting your guide in your hotel, you will visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, where you will take a short stroll and learn about some of Australia’s native flora. From here you can take that perfect photo of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

After driving through the lively neighborhoods of Kings Cross and Woolloomooloo, you will explore some of the beautiful secluded bays and see where the locals hang out. No visit to Sydney would be complete without a visit to the iconic Bondi Beach where you will see surfers and enjoy the local beach vibe before returning to the city for a brief stop in Chinatown on the way back to your hotel.

Day 3 - At Leisure in Sydney

Feel the wind in your face as you breeze along Sydney’s easy to navigate bike paths, head to the world-famous Bondi Beach for a private lesson with a local surfing instructor, sample some of the city’s excellent restaurants, take in a show at the Sydney Opera House, or just relax by your hotel’s pool. Spend the day as you please, enjoying the delights of this world-class city.

Day 4 - Fly to Uluru

After a morning flight to Uluru, you will be met on arrival and escorted to your hotel in the center of town by private vehicle. Time permitting, this evening you will enjoy the unforgettable spectacle of sunset over Uluru, a small taste of what you can expect on tomorrow’s tour.

Day 5 - Uluru

A short drive from your hotel lies the entrance to Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Your first up-close sighting of this massive outcrop is unforgettable. As you approach, the true size of the rock will leave you in awe. Your drive around the base will incorporate several stops along the way where you guide will explain the Aboriginal creation stories associated with this sacred site. At the Mutitjulu Waterhole you will learn of the creation stories of the poisonous snake, Liru and Kiniya the python, and their battle for control of Uluru, in addition to many other fascinating Tjukurpa (Aboriginal Dreaming) stories. At one of the stops you will see ancient rock art and learn of why Uluru is such a significant site for the local Aboriginal people.

Your tour ends with a stop to marvel at the spectacular view of Uluru, with Kata Tjuta in the background before returning to your hotel.

Day 6 - Kata Tjuta

Another treat awaits as you start with an early morning departure from your hotel. From the park entrance, it’s 30-minute drive through a remote desert landscape to where you can marvel at the amazing spectacle of the sun rising over the 36 domes that comprise the spiritual site of Kata Tjuta. Enjoy the silence and peace of this amazing place as the glow of the sun gradually brightens and wakes up the desert. This is followed by a gourmet picnic breakfast before driving to the rocks themselves.

On your short, easy hike through the towering rocks, some of which are up to 1500 feet above the desert, your guide will explain the significance of this site to the Aboriginal people, as well as giving a fascinating explanation of the geological forces that carved these rocks from the time of their formation over 500 million years ago.

Returning to your hotel you will have some free time to relax before tonight’s Sounds of Silence dinner, where you will dine under the stars with an uninterrupted 360-degree view over the desert landscape. As you enjoy your gourmet dinner, a guide will give a stargazing lecture tour of the spectacular southern night sky.

Day 7 - Fly to Darwin, Transfer to Kakadu

A 2-hour flight north from Uluru will bring you to the tropical city of Darwin. You will be met by your guide and begin your 3-day adventure around Australia’s ‘Top End’. Nearby Litchfield National Park is a great introduction to this region, with numerous waterfalls, spring-fed streams and rugged escarpments. You’ll see huge termite mounds and have the opportunity to swim and hike around the cooling waterfalls. After lunch you’ll heave the paved road behind and head deep into Kakadu National Park. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop and view the wildlife and scenery on the way to your air-conditioned lodge accommodation.

Day 8 - Kakadu National Park

Arise before sunrise to board your Yellow Waters Cruise, a must-do activity while you’re here. The cruise is Aboriginal owned and guided, and focuses on a spectacular billabong that’s home to a remarkable variety of wildlife. You’ll spot crocodiles as well as large numbers of birds on this peaceful sunrise cruise.

At the nearby Nourlangie Rock, you’ll learn how the local Aboriginal people lived and see some spectacular 20,000-year-old cave art. After lunch you’ll visit the fascinating Bowali Visitors Centre where you’ll see the Marrawuddi Gallery showcasing local Aboriginal artists.

This evening, watch the sunset over the Kakadu Escarpment with a glass of wine at the Aboriginal rock art site of Ubirr. Your guide will be invaluable for interpreting the ancient rock art you’ll see here. You’ll hear stories of the Rainbow Serpent as you climb the Nadab Lookout for panoramic views over the neighboring Aboriginal region of Arnhem Land.

Day 9 - Kakadu National Park

A great day of activity lies ahead as you explore the Twin Falls Gorge, which can only be accessed by 4WD. You’ll walk through the monsoon forest and over boulders before arriving at the spectacular Jim Jim Falls, which are surrounded by 500 foot cliffs. You’ll have time to relax here in the beautiful surroundings before beginning the drive back to Darwin airport where you will board your flight to Cairns.

Day 10 - Fly to Cairns

Welcome to coastal Queensland - the gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef! Arguably the most beautiful part of the country, you will find this region to be tropical, welcoming and laid-back. You will be met at the airport by your driver and escorted to your nearby hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing on the beautiful beach here.

Day 11 - Daintree Aboriginal Dreaming Rainforest Experience

You’re in for a real treat today. This Aboriginal Cultural Experience starts on a traditional fishing ground of the local Kuku Yalanji people near Port Douglas, a 45-minute drive from Cairns. Here you’ll be met by one of the KubirriWarra brothers who will guide you on a beach, mudflat and mangrove walk. He’ll explain the traditional bush tucker gathering techniques, followed by a traditional smoke ceremony. This is a traditional ceremony of the local people, conducted by tribal elders to protect you while visiting their land.

You’re in for a real treat today. This Aboriginal Cultural Experience starts on a traditional fishing ground of the local Kuku Yalanji people near Port Douglas, a 45-minute drive from Cairns. Here you’ll be met by one of the KubirriWarra brothers who will guide you on a beach, mudflat and mangrove walk. He’ll explain the traditional bush tucker gathering techniques, followed by a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony. This is a traditional ceremony of the local people, conducted by tribal elders to protect you while visiting their land.

Day 12 - Cooktown and Rainbow Serpent Aboriginal Art

Enjoy the spectacular views from a light aircraft as you fly between the World Heritage listed rainforest of Daintree on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other on a 40-minute flight to Cooktown. Upon arrival you will be met by the NugalWarra Tribal Elder, Willie Gordon. Willie is the traditional storyteller of the NugalWarra clan and he will take you to local rock art sites set in an area of spectacular natural beauty. During your visit Willie will share with you the fascinating stories behind the art, which have been passed down between elders for generations. Through him, with his infectious laugh and personality you’ll gain a wonderful insight into Aboriginal spirituality and you’ll part ways with him felling like you’ve experienced something truly special.

After lunch you’ll have a couple of hours to spend relaxing and browsing the shops in the friendly town of Cooktown before returning by aircraft to Cairns and your hotel.

Day 13 - Fly/Cruise to the Barrier Reef

After a leisurely breakfast you will depart late morning for the heliport in the center of town from where you will be whisked away on a spectacular scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef. Landing on a floating platform on the outer reef you will have a couple of unforgettable hours to snorkel in the otherworldly beauty of the reef, surrounded by huge schools of brightly colored fish and pristine coral. After refreshments you will return to Cairns by boat.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, relaxing at your hotel’s pool or sampling some of the fine cuisine in the many nearby restaurants.

Day 14 - At Leisure in Paradise

Today is your day off in paradise to enjoy as you please.

Day 15 - Depart for Home / Extend Your Trip

This morning you will be met by your driver and escorted to Cairns’ airport for your flight home, or to continue to another exciting part of Australia.

Hotels listed below are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Sydney - Parkroyal Darling Harbour - 4 Star - Luxury

Located on Darling Harbour, the Parkroyal offers premium accommodation within minutes of the city’s most well-known sights and attractions. Many of the hotel's rooms enjoy views over Darling Harbour and nearby landmarks such as Cockle Bay, King Street Wharf and the Sydney Convention Centre. Hotel facilities include a gymnasium and business center as well as a choice of dining options including 24-hour room service.

 

Sydney - Shangri-La Hotel Sydney - 5 star - Deluxe

The Shangri-La’s location offers stunning views of Sydney’s spectacular harbour, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the world-famous Sydney Opera House. It is positioned in an elevated location overlooking the interesting, historic Rocks district and offers spacious and inspired luxury guest rooms and suites, with the city center’s largest accommodations among Sydney hotels. In addition, the hotel offers some of the city’s best dining, including the Altitude Restaurant and Blu Bar, both offering spectacular views of the city.

 

Uluru - Desert Gardens Hotel - 4 Star - Luxury

The Desert Gardens Hotel features comfortable,welcoming rooms and locally inspired dining options. There is a variety of accommodation options including desert view, deluxe rock view rooms and shady poolside rooms under a canopy of towering gum trees and garden beds dotted with native flowers. The hotel offers guests all comforts and conveniences of a 4-star hotel, and rooms can be configured with either one king or 2 double beds.

 

Uluru - Sails in the Desert Hotel - 5 Star - Deluxe

Named for the soaring white sails that crown its roof, this is one of Uluru’spremium hotels. The hotel's interior is decorated in local Aboriginal art, with a gallery in the lobby and artwork by renowned artists throughout the public areas and private rooms. The property also features an beautiful gumtree lined swimming pool and a range of dining options. Rooms are cool, comfortable and modern having been recently refurbished. This is an excellent luxury hotel for a memorable stay at Uluru.

 

Kakadu - Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel - 4 Star - Luxury

The Mercure offers a cool retreat in the midst of the wilderness from the spacious foyer to the air-conditioned guest rooms. Located in the town of Jabiru, it is the ideal base to explore Kakadu National Park. Uniquely shaped as the Park’s most famous inhabitant - the saltwater crocodile, this is an indigenous-owned hotel offering guest rooms overlooking a central shaded courtyard and swimming pool. The hotel’s restaurant is the best in town and that’s also an art gallery and gift shop selling Aboriginal artwork.

 

Cairns/Great Barrier Reef - QT Port Douglas - 4.5 Star - Luxury

This vibrant resort boasts quirky design and two hip new food and bar experiences – an interactive marketplace kitchen and a cool cocktail bar. Set in lush tropical gardens just minutes from the town of Port Douglas and Four Mile Beach, the hotel offers a range of stylish hotel rooms. Guests can enjoy the beautiful lagoon-style pool, designer spa and enjoy watching movies in the exclusive outdoor cinema during the cooler the winter months.

 

Cairns/Great Barrier Reef - Thala Beach Nature Reserve - 5 Star - Deluxe

Thala is a beautiful, luxury hotel set in a spectacular beach and rainforest setting close to the natural attractions of Cairns, Port Douglas and offering easy access by boat or aircraft to the Great Barrier Reef. Located an easy 45-minute drive north of Cairns airport and just south of the town of Port Douglas, the hotel offers eco-friendly accommodation options throughout a 145-acre property. All rooms are luxuriously furnished and offer either lush jungle or tropical ocean views. The hotel’s restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine and spectacular uninterrupted Coral Sea views.

 

Optional Extensions

Tasmania (3-4 nights)

Located in far south-east Australia the island of Tasmania could practically qualify as a separate continent in itself due to its unparalleled diversity. The pristine serenity, spectacular beauty and clean air of its rugged coastlines and mountains make it a destination like no other. There’s amazing wildlife here, great food and wine and a rich history, as well as beautiful beaches, stunning scenery everywhere you look and some of the best walks in the world.

3, 4 or 7-night Cruise on the Great Barrier Reef

This unforgettable small vessel (44 passengers) cruise to the outer Barrier Reef will allow you to see parts of this pristine ecosystem rarely visited by day trippers from the coast. Every day you will visit a different reef, where you can snorkel, swim or SCUBA dive among coral and fish in clear, tropical waters. A resident marine biologist is on board to give briefings and explanations to further help you learn more about this amazing place. Your spacious and stylish en-suite private accommodation on board features large picture windows and fresh, creative local food is served in the dining room. Attentive service is always on hand from your friendly, well trained Australian and New Zealand crew.

Fully guided, private tours are priced from:

Luxury - US$4795 per person (4 star hotels)

Deluxe - US$6795 per person (5 star hotels)

Ultra-Luxe - US$9590 per person

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double room in low season.

Hotels listed on the Hotels Tab are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Price Includes:

All hotels as described in the itinerary
Services of our representatives while in Australia
All transportation and tours as described in the itinerary in air-conditioned vehicles
Sightseeing and entrance fees
Meals as described in the itinerary

Price Excludes:

International flights
Travel insurance
Meals other than those listed in the itinerary
Gratuities for guides and drivers
Sightseeing other than described in the itinerary
Additional room charges of a personal nature in hotels (eg: room service, laundry, phone calls, etc.)