Detailed Daily Itinerary

 AROUND AUSTRALIA TOUR  ITINERARY

CANCELLED - SEPTEMBER 7 - 30, 2021 

24 days in Australia - 39 meals 

 

Sept.  7 - 2021
Day 01 Tue – MELBOURNE

Arrive in Melbourne, Australia on your own international air arrangements. Transfer to the city and check in to your centrally located apartment hotel.  Today is a good day to visit historic, National Heritage listed, Victoria Market (6am - 3pm) on your own.  Victoria Market is a .7 mile (17 minute walk) from our hotel.  You can also take a tram.  Late afternoon there will be a group orientation followed by a tour welcome dinner.

Meal free icon(D)  Hotel free icon Mantra on Russell or similar (two nights)

Sept.  8 - 2021
Day 02 Wed – MELBOURNE

A sightseeing tour of exciting, cosmopolitan Melbourne beckons this morning.  Your touring of Australia’s most sophisticated city will include, Southbank, Parliament House, Princess Theater, Lygon Street (Little Italy), bustling Chinatown,  fashionable Collins Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Fitzroy Garden and Federation Square.   Your afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring this city of arcades and laneway culture on your own.  Take a ride on one of the Melbourne’s unique trams and perhaps visit one or two of the city’s fine museums.  Tonight provides a unique opportunity to visit the weekly Wednesday Victoria Market - Summer Night Market, a festive combination of mulit-cultural food stalls, specialty art and craft vendors and exciting entertainment. 

Meal free icon(B)  Hotel free icon Mantra on Russell   

Daily Activity: Short walks during city tour and Victoria Market.  Afternoon free time walking options.

Sept.  9 - 2021
Day 03 Thu – MELBOURNE/HOBART/BICHENO

This morning transfer to the airport for your flight south to Hobart and the island state of Tasmania.  On arrival you will travel north through blissful pastoral Tasmania to visit the historic colonial towns of Ross and Campbell Town.   In early afternoon travel to the pristine east coast to visit scenic Freycinet Peninsula National Park.  Short hikes to lookouts will reward with sweeping vistas of the pounding sea far below.  In late afternoon check in to your sea view accommodation in the charming coastal village of Bicheno.  We have a dusk guided walking tour along the seafront of a nearby sanctuary before an included dinner.  Breakfast is in flight.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free iconBicheno Beachfront (one night)

Daily Activity: Short walks at town tour stops.  Walk of .5 miles plus at Freycinet NP.  Leisurely walk at evening Penguin Tour.

Sept.  10 - 2021
Day 04 Fri – BICHENO/PORT ARTHUR/HOBART

This morning you travel south along the pristine east coast to historic Pt. Arthur, the site of Australia’s most famous and rugged convict settlement.  A guided tour of the site including a harbor cruise will provide great insight into early Australian and Tasmanian history. Visit Tasman Arch before continuing on for a brief but inspiring visit with the owners of a family goat, cattle and cheese making farm to learn about their innovative farming practices and unique lifestyle.  We then continue the scenic drive to Tasmania’s beautiful, hilly capital city, Hobart to check in to our hotel.  Dinner is included tonight.

Meal free icon(B)  Hotel free icon Old Woolstore (four nights)

Daily Activity: Apx .5 mile guided walking tour at Pt. Arthur NP followed by optional free time walking up to 2 miles.

Sept.  11 - 2021
Day 05 Sat – HOBART 

Your morning is free to enjoy the charms of Hobart.  Highly recommended is visiting the renown, colorful Saturday morning Salamanca Market at your own pace.  All things Tasmanian will be on display in a unique harbor side setting.   In early afternoon you begin a sightseeing tour of the main features of the beautiful port city  including the city center, harbor front, Salamanca Place, the wharf, colonial history laden Battery Point, Mt. Nelson lookout and the Royal Botanical Gardens. 

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Old Woolstore

Daily Activity: Short walk from hotel to and at Salamanca Market.  Leisurely walk of .5 to .75 miles at Botanical Gardens.

Sept.  12 - 2021
Day 06 Sun – HOBART

Our full day begins with a short visit to the Sunday Farm Gate Market in Hobart, a popular venue for locals. We then travel out the Derwent River Valley to visit the impressive Salmon Farms Heritage Hatchery and Gardens west of New Norfolk where you will learn about the fascinating history of trout and salmon fishing in Tasmania and Australia.  You then continue on to Bonorong Wildlife Park for a guided up-close and personal encounter with a wide array of Australian native wildlife.  Later, explore historic Richmond followed be a most unique winery visit, before returning to Hobart.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Old Woolstore 

Daily Activity: Short walks at Salmon Farm, Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond.

Sept.  13 - 2021
Day 07 Mon – HOBART

Enjoy a bountiful free day in historic Hobart to investigate on your own or choose from interesting touring options.  In Hobart city, a morning guided walking tour may be your cup of tea.  Self guided exploring options abound including the city, the port area, Salamanca Place and Battery Point; most within walking distance of your hotel.  Full day tours away from the city, today, include Maria Island and Tahune Airwalk and Hastings Caves.

Daily Activity: Free day  - self guided walking options.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Old Woolstore 

Sept.  14 - 2021
Day 08 Tue – HOBART/PERTH

This morning you transfer to the airport for your flight to Melbourne connecting with your onward flight westward  to Perth, Western Australia.  Upon your afternoon arrival you will check-in to your centrally located apartment hotel.  Your late afternoon and evening are at leisure to begin exploring Perth.  Lunch is inflight.

 Meal free icon(B,L)  Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza (four nights)(One bedroom apt. with kitchen, washer & dryer)

Sept.  15 - 2021
Day 09 Wed – PERTH

This morning commence a sightseeing tour of alluring Perth St. Georges Terrace, Perth’s main street, Barrack Street Jetty, the Swan Bell Tower, the Perth Mint and amazing Kings Park, the largest city park in the southern Hemisphere.  We are visiting the park at the height of the famed wildflower season when the Botanical Gardens are ablaze in colorful wildflower displays including many exotic varieties that are only found in SW Western Australia.  This visit is a visual feast.  At Kings Park you will enjoy sweeping views over the city and Swan River as well as having time to explore the Botanical Gardens on your own.   Continue with sightseeing enroute to the historic port of Fremantle for more touring then free time for visiting the museums and other attractions on your own.  In mid afternoon enjoy a scenic cruise on the Swan River back up river to Perth city.  The cruise will include a selection of Western Australia wines for tasting.  Upon disembarking the cruise walk to your hotel. Tonight enjoy dinner at a famous Perth landmark.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza

Daily Activity: Walk of .5 to 1.5 miles at Kings Park and Botanical Gardens.  Self guided walking in Fremantle 1 to 2 miles.  After cruise walk .5 miles from Perth Jetty to hotel with some ascending incline.

Sept.  16 - 2021
Day 10 Thu – PERTH

Today travel south to Margaret River, a bustling market town and very popular wine growing region located south west of Perth. The Margaret River district is also famous for its gorgeous coast line and beaches, caves and nearby giant Karri forests.  Enjoy a visit to the famous Busselton Jetty, the longest in the Southern hemisphere.  Next we journey to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse located on the headland of Cape Leeuwin where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet at the most south-westerly point on the mainland of the Australian Continent. The dominant, sky-scraping lighthouse is the tallest on mainland Australia.    We then travel through the Boranup Forest which is home to the giant pale barked Karri Trees that reach up to 200 feet in height.   Next up is a seaside lunch stop featuring more awe inspiring Indian Ocean seascapes.   In the afternoon we visit a most enticing fruit farm and winery to experience the peaceful nature infused  grounds and sample a variety of local produce including an impressive array of fruit wines, fortified wines and liquors.  Later we visit the main avenue of the town of Margaret River before commencing our return to Perth where you will arrive in the evening with a stop en-route where you can get dinner on your own.

Meal free icon(B,L)   Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza

Daily Activity: Several short walks during day tour

Sept.  17 - 2021
Day 11 Fri – PERTH

A glorious day at leisure beckons to sample the treasures of Perth and surrounds at your own pace.  In the city you can use the visitor friendly free bus system to travel wherever you wish.  Perth touts several fine museums including the highly recommended guided tour of the Perth Mint.  Perth is known for its relaxed, alfresco way of life.  Those wishing to explore outside of the city can choose from a variety of day tour experiences including the Pinnacles, seasonal wildflower tours, Swan River winery cruises and cruises to offshore Rottnest Island.      Tomorrow we have a very early morning flight so keep this in mind in planning your activities for today. 

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza

Daily Activity: Free day  - self guided walking options. 

Sept.  18 - 2021
Day 12 Sat – PERTH/ALICE SPRINGS

Early transfer to Perth Airport for our flight eastward to Australia's isolated desert gateway to the Red Center, Alice Springs. Alice is a most unique town; a true mixing of colonial heritage, and fascinating aboriginal cultures with the many challenges of remote outback living. On arrival, commence a sightseeing tour with an overview of Alice Springs from Anzac Hill. Continue on to visit three important Northern Territory landmarks including the historic Overland Telegraph Station; an outpost which served as the vital link in connecting frontier settlements across Australia. Enjoy a tour of the Royal Flying Doctor Service with its impressive history of providing medical services throughout remote Central Australia, and tour the famed School of the Air that has been delivering air schooling to children on remote outback stations for decades. After checking into our centrally located hotel the evening is free to begin exploring outback Alice on your own including observing the desert locals at work and play. Breakfast box in-flight.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Mercure Alice Springs Resort  ( two nights) 

Daily Activity: Short walks during city tour, .5 mile walk at telegraph station.  Evening free time walking opportunities.  Hotel is .5 mile from town center pedestrian mall.

Sept.  19 - 2021
Day 13 Sun – ALICE SPRINGS/AYERS ROCK/ALICE SPRINGS

Depart for awe inspiring Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise on a true outback adventure with a breakfast stop en-route. On arrival our first stop is Kata Juta and a walk in the spirited Walpa Gorge. We next visit the educational Uluru Visitors Center to learn about the fascinating history of the local Aboriginal groups. In the afternoon enjoy two guided walking tours including an exploration of the base of the giant monolith where you learn more of the history and lore of the local Aboriginal inhabitants. Later, enjoy the enthralling Ayers Rock sunset at Sunset Point where we toast the setting sun before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. Return to Alice Springs across the Outback guided by the stars arriving late evening.

Meal free icon(B,L,D)   Hotel free icon Mercure Alice Springs Resort 

Daily Activity: Three guided walks at Ayers Rock, 2 miles on flat surfaces.

Sept.  20 - 2021
Day 14 Mon – ALICE SPRINGS/DARWIN

The morning and early afternoon are free to relax and explore some of Alice's attractions on your own.  Among your many choices are the Alice Springs Desert Park, Kangaroo Sanctuary, Road Transport Hall of Fame, Women's Pioneer Museum, the Araluen Arts Centre and Yubu Napa Art Gallery, featuring Aboriginal arts and culture.  In late afternoon we transfer to the airport for our flight north to the tropical top end of the Northern Territory and its colorful multi-cultural capital, Darwin. On arrival transfer to your apartment style hotel on the Esplanade overlooking the Arafura Sea. Dinner in-flight.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Mantra on Esplanade  ( two nights) (One bedroom apt. with kitchen, washer and dryer)

Daily Activity: Morning free time walking options.  Morning tour options.  Optional evening walking options.

Sept.  21 - 2021
Day 15 Tue – DARWIN

On tap this morning is an exploration of tropical Darwin, a true racial and cultural amalgam. You will experience some of most important landmarks and learn about Darwin's fascinating history and diverse culture as you tour the city's distinct precincts. We visit the highly regarded Defense of Darwin Exhibition which chronicles the Japanese bombing raids of the city in early WWII and Australia's overall important military history. Continue on to the famed Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory which is home to the largest permanent display of Aboriginal Art and artifacts in Australia as well as other important collections and visiting exhibitions. In the afternoon there will be free time for investigating fascinating Darwin on your own including the expansive and diverse George Brown Botanic Gardens.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Mantra on Esplanade

Daily Activity: Short walks at tour stops. Botanical Gardens optional walks .5 to 1.5 miles.

Sept.  22 - 2021
Day 16 Wed – DARWIN/KATHERINE

This morning drive south to Katherine and the famed Nitmiluk Gorge.  On arrival enjoy a two hour dreamtime Aboriginal heritage discovery cruise which will include two scenic gorges and a guided walk.  You will learn from our indigenous guides about the cultural significance of the gorge as well as the history and life of the traditional owners, the Jawoyn Aboriginal people that have occupied the region for centuries.  In late afternoon we visit a unique local aboriginal gallery in Katherine before checking into our hotel.  A special dinner is included dinner, tonight.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon The Stuart Hotel

Daily Activity: 400 meter walk on rocky paths between the two gorges during afternoon cruise. 

Sept.  23 - 2021
Day 17 Thu – KATHERINE/KAKADU NATIONAL PARK/COOINDA VILLAGE

This morning we visit a local museum and cultural center before traveling via the isolated back road into the famed World Heritage listed, Kakadu National Park.  On arrival at Cooinda you will visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre where you will gain insight into the history and culture of the primary traditional owners of the park, The Bininj People.   We then check into our lodge accommodation at the edge of exotic Yellow Water nature reserve.  The balance of the afternoon is at leisure to lounge by the pool or explore the Cooinda grounds on your own.  Dinner is on your own at Cooinda tonight.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Cooinda Lodge  (one night)

Daily Activity: Optional walking around Cooinda.  

Sept.  24 - 2021
Day 18 Fri – KAKADU NATIONAL PARK/COOINDA VILLAGE/MARY RIVER WILDERNESS RETREAT 

We meet in the lobby early to join a two hour sunrise cruise exploration of amazing Yellow Water.  The waterways are literally teaming with wildlife including an astounding array of colorful bird life, the treacherous Australian Saltwater Crocodile, wild boar and the large tasty Barramundi so sought after by NT fishermen.  After the cruise enjoy breakfast before departing for Nourlangie Rock indigenous art site where we will have a guided interpretative walk to the impressive viewing galleries.  We then visit the remote Jabiru Township and the Kakadu National Park Bowali Visitor Centre.   After departing the park we continue the scenic drive to the Mary River and our overnight stop at the Mary River Wilderness Park.  On arrival in mid afternoon we have a brief orientation then enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.  You can traverse the parks nature trails on foot or by self drive rental cart or enjoy relaxing around the pool.  Enjoy dinner tonight in our wilderness setting. 

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Mary River Wilderness Retreat Hotel (one night)

Daily Activity: Guided walk of apx. one mile at Nourlangie Rock art site.  Short walk at the Bowali Visitor Centre.  Optional nature trail walks of varying lengths at the Mary River Wilderness Retreat

Sept.  25 - 2021
Day 19  Sat – MARY RIVER WILDERNESS LODGE/DARWIN/CAIRNS

This morning we travel back to civilization and the Darwin Airport for our mid day flight to vibrant tropical Cairns on the coast of North Queensland.  On our arrival we have brief sightseeing of the city before checking in to our resort hotel situated in a relaxed tropical  setting on the foreshore of the Bay.  Your private balcony rewards with entrancing sea views over Cairns bay front. Our hotel operates an hourly shuttle to Cairns city center.  Get to know the friendly locals at dinner tonight, hosted by a local Cairns service organization.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Holiday Inn Harborside  (three nights)

Daily Activity: Optional evening walking on Cairns Esplanade.

Sept.  26 - 2021
Day 20 Sun – CAIRNS/GREAT BARRIER REEF 

Today features an exciting visit to one of the planet’s great wonders, the Great Barrier Reef.  Your cruise  includes a brief stop at Fitzroy Island then four glorious hours at the reef.  Once moored at the reef pontoon you can choose from many included activities.  These include snorkeling including all equipment, semi-submersible tour, glass bottom boat tour, underwater observatory, touch tank and fish feeding presentations, and a bountiful tropical lunch.    Those preferring not to snorkel can experience the magic of the colorful reef corals and abundant sea life from an underwater observatory, glass bottom boat rides and submersible craft.  Any tour member who prefers not to travel to the reef today can receive a cruise credit if the notification is made prior to May 01, 2021.   Those not traveling to the reef have a day at leisure or can choose from several day excursions outside the city.  Your tour director can  advise. 

Meal free icon(B,L)   Hotel free icon Holiday Inn Harborside  

Daily Activity: Optional short walks on /Fitzroy Island.  Optional evening walks on Cairns Esplanade.

Sept.  27 - 2021
Day 21 Mon – CAIRNS/DAINTREE/CAPE TRIBULATION/CAIRNS

The far north Queensland rainforest and natural world take center stage today as we depart early traveling north to the Daintree River, Mossman Gorge and the Cape Tribulation wilderness in a purpose built vehicle.  With our expert guide, see crocodiles and tropical birdlife on a Daintree River nature cruise and learn about local Aboriginal culture and rare flora and fauna on nature walks in the pristine rainforest.   In the afternoon walk on the sands at famed Cape Tribulation as UNESCO World Heritage areas merge where the rainforest meets the sea.  Today will combine the best of the North Queensland rainforest natural world with many surprises including impressive tropical taste sensations. Return to Cairns arriving early evening.

Meal free icon(B,L,D)   Hotel free icon Holiday Inn Harborside

Daily Activity: Several short walks during long day tour.

Sept.  28 - 2021
Day 22 Tue – CAIRNS/SYDNEY

This morning we fly south to enthralling Sydney.  Upon your early afternoon arrival commence a tour of the magnificent harbor city. Tour features will include Circular Quay, the historic harbor front Rocks area, Mrs. Macquarie's Point featuring fabulous views of the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbor. The tour continues with fashionable Rose Bay, Watson’s Bay, the narrow cliff face Gap entrance to Sydney Harbor and strolling the sands of the famed surfing mecca, Bondi Beach. You will quickly discover why Sydney is rated as one of the world’s most exciting cities.  Your evening is free to continue exploring amazing Sydney on your own.

Meal free icon(B)   Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour  (two nights) (One bedroom apt. with kitchen, washer & dryer)

Daily Activity: Several short walks during Sydney city tour.

Sept.  29 - 2021
Day 23 Wed – SYDNEY

This morning you will walk to Circular Quay to experience entrancing Sydney Harbor on a cruise which will reveal the true beauty of this unparalleled scenic waterway. Cruising among a plethora of ferries, sailboats and commercial vessels you view the many attractions of perhaps the most beautiful natural harbor on the planet. Your experience will include the attractive harbor side residential communities that line Middle Harbor.  Your afternoon is free to explore the limitless attractions of the harbor city on your own.  Tonight enjoy a tour farewell dinner celebrating your in-depth exploration of the magnificent island continent of Australia.

Meal free icon(B,D)   Hotel free icon Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour  

Daily Activity: Walk on your own or with the group to Circular Quay, Wharf 6 (Captain Cook Terminal) apx. 1 mile. Afternoon, free time exploring in Sydney.

Sept.  30 - 2021
Day 24 Thu – SYDNEY - USA OR EXTENSION ARRANGEMENTS

Today transfer to the airport for your flight homeward or begin an extension on your own arrangements in Sydney or another destination.  If you are returning to the USA today you will cross the International Dateline again regaining the day you lost enroute to Australia.     

Meal free icon(B)

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