Australian Outback Adventure, Reef, and Sydney
Uncover the magic of the Australian outback! Explore ruggedly beautiful desert landscapes and learn about their sacred connection to Aboriginal cultures. Then, visit iconic Australian attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney.
This Australian Outback Adventure, Reef, and Sydney vacation gives you the chance to experience the magic of the Australian outback, plus discover iconic attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and cosmopolitan Sydney. It was planned for a couple from Houston who wanted a mix of must-sees and some activities off the beaten path.
They started their Australian Outback Adventure, Reef, and Sydney vacation at Uluru/Ayers Rock, the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Here, they had a magical dinner under the stars, and the next day they went skydiving over Uluru! Then, they had a sunrise tour of Uluru to see this impressive monolith changing colors with the rising sun.
Their adventures in the outback continued in the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of Kings Canyon. With the help of an expert guide, they made the difficult but rewarding climb to the top of Kings Canyon and were treated to absolutely breathtaking views of the gorge lighting up at sunrise. Then, they continued on to Alice Springs, where they had some leisure time to relax and reminisce about their amazing time in the outback.
Continuing their Australian Outback Adventure, Reef, and Sydney vacation, they flew to Port Douglas, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient Daintree Rainforest. They stayed at a fabulous resort in this charming beach town, and their room was just steps away from the gorgeous pool. They went snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, and had the rest of the time at leisure to explore or relax as they wished.
Finally for their Australian Outback Adventure, Reef, and Sydney vacation, they flew down to sunny Sydney. They stayed in one of our favorite centrally located hotels, the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, which gave them gorgeous views of the city from their spacious room. In Sydney, they took a fun bike tour of the city to catch the highlights, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. They even stopped for a pint in a local pub.
At last, their amazing adventure came to an end, and it was time to begin their journey home.
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to the outback! Arrive into Ayers Rock/Uluru in the spiritual heart of Australia. This monolith in the desert is sacred to the Aboriginal population. Over the next 2 days, you’ll have the chance to discover the strong sense of spirituality and culture here. Today, enjoy a transfer from the airport to Sails in the Desert Hotel. Perhaps take a dip in the pool or browse the Mulgara Gallery onsite to see indigenous art. This evening, enjoy a unique Sounds of Silence dining experience under the stars. As the sun sets, you’ll be serenaded by the mysterious sounds of a didgeridoo, and a star talker will interpret the legends of the night sky as you enjoy bush tucker fare and local wines.
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Day 2
Today, you have the chance to go on a unique adventure: skydiving over Uluru! Fly over Australia’s iconic outback landscape, taking in Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and the seemingly endless red desert from above. Enjoy a rush of adrenaline and breathtaking 360° views as you leap from the plane and fall 10,000 feet!
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Day 3
This morning, enjoy a guided trek around the base of Uluru, where you’ll embrace the culture, geology, and environment that make up the essence of this amazing natural attraction. Find yourself in awe as you watch Uluru change colors in the sunrise, visit waterholes, view ancient rock art sites, and learn the legends of the native Anangu people. Enjoy lunch at the resort, then take a scenic transfer to Kings Canyon. As you pass through rugged outback scenery, your guide will provide insight into local landmarks, history, and sacred sites.
Kings Canyon Resort
Day 4
Rise early this morning! Today, you’ll be able to take in the vastness and majesty of the Australian outback as you hike to the rim of Kings Canyon. Located in the heart of Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon lies in an ancient Australian landscape that is sacred ground for the Ulpanyali and Lilla people. On this amazing tour, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to climb up a 100-meter cliff face and walk around the rim of the canyon with the help of an expert guide. Head back to your resort for an early lunch, then take a scenic transfer to Alice Springs, driving past rocky outcrops and rivers that glow red as the sun begins to set. Arrive at your outback resort in time for dinner.
Kings Canyon Resort
Day 5
Today is yours for the making. Perhaps explore Alice Springs Desert Park, visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary, view Aboriginal art, or enjoy a lovely hike along the Larapinta Trail.
Chiefly Alice Springs Resort
Day 6
Today, transfer to northern tropical Queensland by plane. Upon arrival in Cairns, enjoy a shared transfer to Port Douglas and your luxurious accommodations at Shantara Resort. Make yourself at home and enjoy 2 fabulous nights in Port Douglas, where 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. After your time in the Red Centre, a dip in the resort’s gorgeous pool will be a welcome refreshment!
Shantara Resort Port Douglas
Day 7
Get ready for the experience of a lifetime: exploring the Great Barrier Reef! Quicksilver’s wave-piercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia’s Continental Shelf. You can choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a Quicksilver semi-sub, just 1 meter underwater. Time to cross the Great Barrier Reef off your bucket list!
Shantara Resort Port Douglas
Day 8
This morning, enjoy a transfer to the airport and catch a flight to Sydney. Upon arrival, make your way to your fabulous accommodations at the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney. This luxurious hotel is within walking distance of major attractions like Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Perhaps enjoy dinner and cocktails at the hotel’s Blu Bar 36, where you can take in world-class views of Sydney Harbour.
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Day 9
Explore the city in the best way possible: on a bicycle! On this guided half-day tour with Bonza Bike Tours, you’ll take in all of the iconic sights, plus some other highlights and local insight you may miss on your own. Make sure to bring your camera and snap some photos of famous attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park, Anzac War Memorial, Sydney Tower, and more! Your tour ends in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to explore the city on your own.
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Day 10
Your amazing Australian adventure comes to an end today. Make your way to the airport, where you’ll begin your journey home.
About this vacation
Cost Per Person
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