Escorted Australia Vacation: Reef, Outback, and Sydney
This Escorted Australia Vacation gives you all the highlights. Escape to ancient landscapes, see the Great Barrier Reef, explore Sydney, and so much more.
We created this Escorted Australia Vacation for a family with teenage kids who wanted to see the highlights of Australia, get insight into aboriginal culture, and do it all without hassle. A small-group escorted journey was the perfect way for them to get the most out of their Australia vacation.
They began their Escorted Australia Vacation with a Great Barrier Reef vacation in Palm Cove. They met their expert driver-guide over a delicious dinner. The next day, they took an incredible tour of the Daintree Rainforest—the oldest rainforest in the world—with an aboriginal guide who gave them unique insight into the culture and traditions of the Kuku Yulanji people. Then, they took a fabulous cruise on the Great Barrier Reef, visiting three secluded sites for snorkeling and diving.
Next on their Escorted Australia Vacation, they headed to the Northern Outback region. The stunning natural formations in this desert landscape give a glimpse into the ancient past. They visited the remote town of Alice Springs, the dramatic gorges of Kings Canyon, and the famed Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park, where they watched Uluru change colors in the sunset and learned about the history and culture of the ancient lands.
Continuing their Escorted Australia Vacation, they spent a night in Sydney before heading into the nearby Blue Mountains for a beautiful, peaceful hike. Their driver-guide showed them secluded spots off the beaten path, where they were rewarded with gorgeous views over the valley. The next day, they enjoyed delicious wine tasting in the Hunter Valley wine region.
Finally, they returned to Sydney for 2 more nights. They had an exclusive opportunity to sail on the Sydney Harbour, taking in iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House as well as the breathtaking luxury homes nestling in secluded corners of the harbor.
At last, their Escorted Australia Vacation came to an end. They enjoyed a private transfer to the airport, where they began their journey home.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Australia! Your journey begins in Palm Cove, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Sit back and relax while you’re transferred in a private car to your resort. This afternoon, join your travel director for a cocktail reception and dinner overlooking the crystal clear water of the Coral Sea. Dine on award-winning Australian cuisine using only the freshest local produce at the ultimate tropical beachfront restaurant.
5-star resort in Palm Cove
Day 2
Today will be one to remember. Join your aboriginal guide on an exclusive journey to discover the Daintree Rainforest and gain insight into the deep relationship the local Kuku Yulanji people have with their land. Learn about cultural traditions, experience traditional hunting techniques, and have a go at spear throwing. Enjoy lunch in a tranquil and relaxing rainforest setting. This evening, relax and dine at your leisure.
5-star resort in Palm Cove
Day 3
Discover the magic of the Great Barrier Reef on a cruise that will take you to 3 secluded outer reef dive sights. Take to the water and discover spectacular coral formations and a world of unique marine creatures. Snorkel around underwater gardens, take a dive, or simply relax while you bask in the sun on deck. Enjoy a delicious tropical lunch on board the boat in air conditioned comfort before returning to Palm Cove.
5-star resort in Palm Cove
Day 4
Fly from Cairns to Alice Springs, a remote town in the Outback. This afternoon, take a tour of Alice Springs to discover what life is like in an isolated Australian town. Tonight, enjoy an incredible dining experience in a bush setting. Enjoy your delicious 3-course meal—featuring some traditional bush foods—under the Milky Way.
4-star hotel in Alice Springs
Day 5
Today, travel to the Henbury Meteorite Conservation Reserve, formed when a meteor hit the earth’s surface 4,700 years ago. This afternoon, enjoy a relaxed walk along the Creek Bed of Kings Canyon and observe the changing colors of the landscape. This evening, you’ll be treated to the unique dining experience, set in the wilderness under a canopy of stars. The only light comes from the moon and the flickering glow of the fire. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and canapés followed by a 4-course dinner prepared from fresh produce.
4-star hotel in Kings Canyon
Day 6
At sunrise, you’re off on a 6km Rim Walk of the spectacular Kings Canyon. As you explore the rim, highlights include the domed “Lost City” and a stop at Cotterill’s Lookout. Visit Curtin Springs Station at lunch time to enjoy a barbecue lunch and meet one of the locals. This afternoon, enter Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park to witness a spectacular Uluru sunset. Enjoy sparkling wine while you watch Uluru change color as the sun sets below the horizon.
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Day 7
Today is an immersion in aboriginal culture and ancient history. Start this highlight day with an impressive sunrise over Uluru. Then it’s off to the Uluru – Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre for insight into the history of the local Anangu people, who have lived in and looked after the Uluru and Kata Tjuta region for tens of thousands of years. Spend the day learning about the rich history of the region. This evening, you’ll dine at Ilkari Restaurant at your hotel. The resort’s chefs are continually finding new ways to incorporate native ingredients to create world-class, indigenous-inspired Outback fare.
Sails in the Desert Hotel
Day 8
Sleep in and relax before your flight to Sydney. Perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta, join a dot painting workshop, book a massage, or just relax with a good book. This afternoon, fly to Sydney and on arrival at your harborside hotel, enjoy a drink and some canapés overlooking Walsh Bay.
5-star hotel in Sydney
Day 9
Head off on a day of discovery to Blue Mountains National Park. Breathe the pristine air and, with the guidance of your travel director, go off the well-worn track to secluded lookouts and peaceful, short bushwalks. You’ll be rewarded with views across the valleys as far as the eye can see and picture perfect memories to take away. This afternoon, arrive at your hotel relax before enjoying a delicious meal featuring produce sourced from local Blue Mountains suppliers.
5-star lodge in the Blue Mountains
Day 10
Travel to the wine region of the Hunter Valley for a day of good food, great wine, and beautiful scenery. You’ll indulge with private wine tastings at boutique vineyards and sit down to an exceptional lunch before spending the afternoon at your leisure. You may like to sit in your private courtyard with a good book and bottle of wine. Tonight, enjoy dinner at the resort.
The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
Day 11
Get ready for a day of sailing on Sydney Harbour. Become part of a big boat sailing crew on board an America’s Cup yacht. You can take the helm, work the grinders, or simply sit back and relax as you sail past iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, the Rocks district, and small secluded coves surrounded by multimillion-dollar waterfront homes. It’s a day you’ll remember for years to come.
5-star hotel in Sydney
Day 12
A day of sightseeing around the city awaits! Explore the famous Eastern Suburbs, taking a stroll along the coastal walk for incredible views over the Pacific Ocean and wild coastal cliffs. Join a VIP guided tour of iconic Sydney Opera House, then enjoy a shared tasting lunch at Opera Kitchen overlooking the sparkling harbor. After a free afternoon to explore, meet up with your guide and fellow travelers for one last meal together as your holiday draws to an end.
5-star hotel in Sydney
Day 13
Today, enjoy a private transfer to the airport, where you’ll begin your journey home.
About this vacation
Cost Per Person
Does not include the cost of airfare
Based on
You might also be interested in
New Zealand Signature Vacation Package
Stay at some of our favorite luxury lodges and enjoy signature experiences you can only get in New Zealand.
Escorted Australia Vacation Packages: Outback Culture Tour
Travel by private aircraft to some of the remote regions of outback Australia. See the Mary River Wetlands teeming with wildlife, meet the locals on the remote Tiwi Islands, explore a half-million-acre cattle ranch, fly over breathtaking Kimberley waterfalls, and much more.
Luxurious New Zealand and Private Island Fiji
Luxurious New Zealand and Private Island Fiji This package was planned for two Florida ladies wanting to celebrate 20 years of friendship. They both had a passion for travel and New Zealand was on their bucket list. After a long time traveling, the duo hopped in their rental car where they drove to Fiordland Lodge. Read More…
New Zealand Highlights Package
See the highlights of New Zealand with this wilderness and adventure package. Discover unique thrills in New Zealand!