Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia’s most iconic landscapes, from the vibrant streets of Melbourne to the breathtaking beauty of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef. Indulge in wine tastings in the scenic Yarra Valley, witness the magic of the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, and experience luxury on board The Ghan Train. This once-in-a-lifetime tour promises a blend of adventure, culture, and natural wonders.
DAYS 1-2—FLY TO AUSTRALIA
Depart for your overnight flight to Australia.
DAY 3—WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA!
G’day, Mate! Arrive in Melbourne and meet your local guides before embarking on a guided tour of the city. Visit the Melbourne Skydeck, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform, for breathtaking views nearly 1000 feet above the city. This evening, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner as a group. L, D
DAY 4—ABORIGINAL TALK/PHILIP ISLAND
The day begins with a guided visit to Federation Square, where an Aboriginal talk offers insights into the history and cultural significance of Melbourne's land. After lunch on your own, travel to Phillip Island to visit the Koala Conservatory and enjoy the stunning clifftop views at the Nobbies, home to Seal Rocks and seasonal whale sightings. In the evening, experience the magical Penguin Parade from the premium “Penguins Plus” seating area. B, D
DAY 5—YARRA VALLEY
This morning, journey to the Yarra Valley, Victoria's historic wine-growing region known for its rich heritage and scenic beauty. Visit Rayner's Orchard, a family-run fruit farm offering a guided tasting tour of tree-ripened fruits. Enjoy a wine tasting and a two-course lunch at a local winery, then visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie to sample their sweet treats. Return to the hotel for time to relax and enjoy dinner on your own. B, L
DAY 6—EXPLORE MELBOURNE/ST. KILDA
Enjoy a morning full of exploring Melbourne. At the Melbourne Aquarium, see how conservation efforts inspire a love for oceans and marine life in the area. Explore the diverse stories that highlight our shared humanity at the Immigration Museum. Travel to St. Kilda, Melbourne’s vibrant seaside playground, known for its sandy beaches, scenic boardwalks, iconic attractions, and diverse dining options. The afternoon is free to explore Melbourne at your leisure. B
DAY 7—EXPLORE ADELAIDE
Adelaide is South Australia’s vibrant coastal capital. Fly to Adelaide this morning and meet your local guide before exploring the city, starting with a visit to the Art Gallery of South Australia, renowned for its Indigenous and expansive art collections. Continue touring highlights like Victoria Square, cosmopolitan Gouger Street, King William Street, Parliament House, and Trinity Church, the city’s oldest church. After lunch on your own, enjoy a relaxed evening to explore and enjoy dinner on your own. B
DAY 8—KANGAROO ISLAND
Get ready for a full day exploring Kangaroo Island, South Australia’s premier nature-based tourism destination. After a ferry ride to the island, visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for a guided walk among a colony of wild Australian sea lions, followed by lunch at Vivonne Bay Bistro. Spend the afternoon exploring Flinders Chase National Park, home to native wildlife and stunning landmarks like Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. B, L
DAY 9—BAROSSA VALLEY/HAHNDORF
Begin today with a visit to the Barossa Valley, Australia’s wine capital, renowned for its Shiraz and Mediterranean climate. Explore Seppeltsfield Estate on a private tour, learning about its history and enjoying wine tastings and lunch. Stroll through the estate's artisan hubs, including the JamFactory, showcasing handcrafted works by local artists. In the afternoon, visit Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, known for its charming architecture, artisanal food, and rich history. Return to Adelaide by early evening, with free time to relax and enjoy dinner at your leisure. B, L
DAY 10—THE GHAN
Today, board The Ghan Train. Settle into your Gold Service Cabin and depart Adelaide at midday. Enjoy a gourmet lunch as the train glides through the scenic North and the ancient Flinders Ranges. In the evening, savor pre-dinner drinks and a fine meal while mingling with fellow travelers. Drift off to sleep in comfort as the train continues its journey through the stunning Australian Outback. B, L, D
DAY 11—ALICE SPRINGS
Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise in Marla, where the vivid red earth and dramatic colors of the horizon define the Australian outback. Enjoy brunch on The Ghan as you travel into the Northern Territory and through the MacDonnell Ranges. In Alice Springs, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the historic Telegraph Station, and the School of the Air. End with panoramic views from the most visited landmark in Alice Springs, Anzac Hill, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural and historical significance. Enjoy dinner tonight at the hotel’s restaurant. B, D
DAY 12—YULARA/CURTIN SPRINGS
Embark on a journey from Alice Springs to Uluru, passing through ancient desert landscapes. Stop for a light BBQ lunch at Curtin Springs before continuing to the Voyages Sails in the Desert Resort. On the way, admire Mount Conner, Uluru's "cousin," before reaching Ayers Rock. Check into the hotel then head out for a breathtaking sunset view at Uluru, where the rock’s colors shift from pink to orange and red, offering the perfect photo opportunity. Enjoy dinner on your own. B, L
DAY 13—ULURU/FIELD OF LIGHTS
This morning, at the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing platform, enjoy breathtaking views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta at sunrise, with birdlife welcoming the day. Learn about the sacred Tjukurpa, the foundation of Anangu culture, as you explore the area. Return to the resort for a Dot Painting Workshop with a local Anangu artist. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon, then experience the mesmerizing Field of Lights Dinner, where 50,000 spindles of light illuminate the desert as Uluru is silhouetted against the night sky. B, D
DAY 14—CAIRNS
Enjoy a leisurely morning and lunch on your own before boarding a flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel. B, D
DAY 15—GREAT BARRIER REEF
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, then walk to the Marina Reef terminal to check in for your full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise aboard the Ocean Spirit catamaran. Set sail to Michaelmas Cay, a pristine sand cay surrounded by fringing reefs and a bird sanctuary. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, a semi-submarine ride, fish feeding, and birdwatching. Relax on the beach or the catamaran’s decks, depending on your preference. Return to the hotel for a free evening. B, L
DAY 16—KURANDA/THE RAINFOREST
Enjoy a full-day tour of Kuranda and the Rainforest. Begin with a Skyrail ride, including stops for guided walks and scenic views. Explore Kuranda Village and Heritage Markets, then visit Rainforestation for the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, Dreamtime Walk, and a buffet lunch. Enjoy a rainforest tour on a WWII Army Duck, followed by a scenic train ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Afterward, return to the hotel and enjoy dinner on your own. B, L
DAY 17—SYDNEY/HARBOR CRUISE
Today it’s off to Sydney. Upon arrival, meet your guide and head to the hotel. Sydney offers a blend of city excitement and nearby beaches like Bondi and Manly. Head to King Street Wharf for a luxury dinner cruise around Port Jackson, commonly known as Sydney Harbor. Enjoy a three-course meal with local wines while taking in stunning 360-degree views of the Harbor Bridge, Opera House, and Luna Park. B, D
DAY 18—SYDNEY/OPERA HOUSE TOUR
Today, enjoy a guided tour of Downtown Sydney, including the Rocks area, Hyde Park, and St. Mary's Cathedral. See inside the world's most recognizable sails during a one-hour Opera House tour, learning about its design and history. Visit Mrs. Macquarie's Chair and The Gap for scenic views. After lunch, head to Bondi Beach to take in the stunning scenery. Return to the hotel in the afternoon, with free time for dinner and exploration. B, L
DAY 19—THE ROCKS HERITAGE TOUR
This morning, meet your guide for a 90-minute Aboriginal walking tour in The Rocks, exploring the area's cultural and spiritual connection to the land. Then, head to Calmsley Hill City Farm for a BBQ lunch and a personalized talk on farm operations and sustainability. Visit Featherdale Wildlife Park to see Australian wildlife like wombats, dingoes, and platypuses. Return to the city with free time for dinner. B, L
DAY 20—SYDNEY "YOUR WAY"
Today is completely free to explore Sydney your way. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local favorite and bid goodbye to our friendly Aussie guide. B, D
DAY 21—FLY HOME
Today you’ll fly home with treasured memories of this once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia.
Quality Accommodations
Nights 1-4: Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, Melbourne
Nights 5-7: Sofitel Adelaide, Adelaide
Night 8: The Ghan Train
Night 9: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, Alice Springs
Nights 10-11: Voyage Sails in the Desert Hotel, Yulara
Nights 12-14: Shangri-La Hotel The Marina, Cairns
Nights 15-18: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Sydney
Dates:
Mar 6-26, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double: $8,999
Single: $11,799
*Air pricing is not included and is approximated at $3,900 from ORD or $3,600 from LAX. Schedules and fare will be available in Spring 2025.
Pre/Post-Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Available about 10 months before departure.
Walking Distance
Available about 10 months before departure.
Average Temps
Sydney: High of 75°, low of 65°
Alice Springs: High of 93°, low of 68°
Currency
Australian Dollar
Time Zone
GMT+11 (16 hours ahead of New York)
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel will have hair dryers, WI-FI, fitness rooms, some will have swimming pools, and/or spas.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
