National Park Explorer

Start your Australian experience in vibrant Sydney where you can enjoy a range of optional day tours. Explore The Rocks district, including the iconic Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay and Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you’re feeling energetic, opt to climb to the top of the bridge on an informative escorted tour or take a guided tour inside Sydney Opera House and experience it from an alternative perspective. Finally, take some time to relax in the city’s Royal Botanic Garden and soak up the sun overlooking the world’s most famous harbour. 

Away from the city buzz, explore one of Sydney’s famous beaches – we recommend starting with Bondi or Manley. For those with an adventurous side, join a two hour beginners surfing lesson, or watch the locals as they show you how to do it in style. Take a coastal walk and enjoy some people watching in one of the many exceptional waterside cafes and restaurants. In the afternoon, hop on ferry for the short ride to Taronga Zoo, on the opposite side of the harbour, where you can meet some classic Australian wildlife up close and personal on a ‘Behind the scenes tour’ (pre-bookable).  

Leave the city behind on the Blue Mountains, Wines and Beyond self-drive. After a short drive you’ll arrive in the famous Blue Mountains, so-called because of the blue mist that can be seen rising from the eucalyptus that surrounds its imposing peaks and deep gorges. A paradise for wildlife and people alike, with one breath-taking vista after another.

You’ll enjoy a full day in the Blue Mountains before you continue on to the famous Hunter Valley wine region. After arriving in the Hunter Valley take a recommended full-day tour of the region (optional) and let someone else do the driving so you can enjoy the local produce. The next day you’ll head back to coastal Port Stephens, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and watch the famous bottlenose dolphins that frequent the bay.  

Travel along the Pacific Highway past Lake Macquarie and back to the city. Opt to explore like a local on an afternoon harbour cruise, then take advantage of Sydney’s busy restaurant and events scene for your final night Sydney-side.  

Fly to the Northern Territory’s welcoming city, Darwin, and enjoy the tropical atmosphere. Stroll along the harbour, visit the outdoor cinema and watch one of Australia’s best sunsets with your toes dug in the sand on Mindl Beach. 

Head out on a Top End Discovery self-drive adventure taking in the highlights of the Top End. Hop on an optional jumping crocodile cruise on the Adelaide River – an essential Northern Territory experience – before you head into Kakadu National Park to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where nature and Aboriginal culture flourish. Discover the ancient rock art, spot over 280 bird and 2,000 plants species plus an array of wildlife; including more than 10,000 crocodiles that call this expansive wildlife haven home.

Over the next few days you’ll have the opportunity to cruise the Katherine Gorge, overlooked by the sandstone cliffs towering above you, and take an (optional) dip in the steamy Mataranka Thermal Pools. In Litchfield, swim in the cool water under a cascading waterfall and admire the fascinating two-metre-high magnetic termite mounds. 

Finish your self-drive in Darwin and enjoy the eclectic local cuisine, inspired by Asia, ahead of your flight to Cairns tomorrow. 

Fly from Darwin to Cairns and transfer to the palm-fridge town of Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland; a perfect spot to base yourself whilst you explore the surrounding Great Barrier Reef an UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. 

Today, opt to explore the surrounding rainforest on a Mossman Gorge Dreamtime Walk with a knowledgeable indigenous guide. Learn about the Aboriginal peoples’ deep rooted connection with Mother Nature, dating back thousands of years, identify bush delicacies and enjoy a swim in a cool waterhole. 

Today, head out on a full day Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef tour aboard a luxury catamaran, accompanied by a marine biologist. Your boat will take you to an exclusive floating platform on the Great Barrier Reef where you can view a kaleidoscope of colours and an array of marine life in its natural habitat. Once on the Agincourt Reef, options include a semi-submersible coral viewing ride, snorkelling (equipment included) or, for those that don’t want to get their feet wet, the chance to witness the reef from the comfort of an underwater observatory. 

Enjoy a day at leisure where you can unwind by the pool, wander around the town, do some last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoy a relaxing massage. Alternatively, choose from a selection of day experiences from jungle surfing to the beautiful Kuranda All-Inclusive day tour, where you can enjoy a Skyrail gondola ride over the rainforest canopy.  

Transfer back to Cairns for your onward journey. Alternatively, speak to one of our Travel Designers about extending your trip.

For those with more time, we recommend the iconic Ghan rail expedition from Darwin to Alice Springs. Add on a six day Explore the Red Centre self-drive tour or four day Outback Wanderer escorted tour before connecting to Port Douglas. 

For alternative extensions please ask your Travel Designer.