Australia's Hidden Wonders
Australia's Hidden Wonders
Australia's Hidden Wonders
10 Days Starting in Sydney, Australia and ending in Port Douglas, Australia
Visiting: Sydney, Blue Mountains, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Cairns, Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IJSPD25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 22
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
From Sydney's vibrant culinary scene to the mesmerising beauty of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef. Explore natural wonders with local guides, taking in diverse landscapes and culture while creating unforgettable memories at every turn.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Ace Hotel Sydney
Meals Included: Dinner
Upon your arrival in Sydney, you’ll be warmly greeted by your Journey Director. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with wine at Kiln, the rooftop restaurant at your accommodation, the chic Ace Hotel. As you ascend to the rooftop, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Sydney skyline. Savour a carefully curated menu that showcases contemporary Australian cuisine, infused with influences from Italy, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Each dish is crafted with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, offering a unique culinary experience that reflects the diverse flavours of the region. This memorable and stylish dining experience sets the perfect tone for your journey ahead, allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Sydney. The boutique Ace Hotel provides a contemporary stay, it houses an impressive collection of Australian art and is conveniently located in the heart of Sydney.
Day 2: Sydney Highlights
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Ace Hotel Sydney
Meals Included: Dinner
Start your day with a fascinating Sydney City Sights tour, where you’ll discover the city’s lively neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Following this, enjoy a private guided tour inside the Sydney Opera House, delving into its rich history and uncovering the secrets behind this architectural marvel. Learn about its unique design and the cultural significance it holds for Australia. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. Discover Bondi with our courtesy drop off and choose from a variety of beachside dining options or embark on a scenic coastal walk. This evening, you’ll be guided on a private tour of the Art Gallery of New South Wales led by a knowledgeable gallery expert. Gain interesting insights into the art, architecture, and history of this renowned institution. Finally, indulge in a multi-course dinner at Crafted, helmed by acclaimed chef Matt Moran, featuring exquisite Australian cuisine paired with fine wine.
Day 3: Blue Mountains National Park
Location: Blue Mountains
Accommodation Name: Ace Hotel Sydney
Start the day at the Sydney Zoo, where you’ll dive deep into Australia’s wildlife and culture. Guided by an Indigenous expert, explore the world's oldest living culture through captivating art and history, learning about traditional tools, weapons, and the integral role of Australian animals in Indigenous traditions. After this immersive experience, enjoy some free time in the charming mountain town of Leura. Perhaps choose a leisurely lunch at one of the quaint cafés, soaking in the cozy atmosphere. Next, head to Echo Point, where breathtaking views of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation await. The evening is yours to unwind and reflect on a day filled with culture and natural beauty, making the most of your time in this picturesque region.
Day 4: Sydney At Leisure
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Ace Hotel Sydney
Explore Sydney at your own pace. The day is yours to enjoy, whether you choose to café hop, stroll along the iconic Sydney Harbour, or visit the historic Rocks district for some shopping and sightseeing. You might also consider taking a ferry ride to experience the area from the water, offering a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and beautiful coastline.
Day 5: Sydney - Uluru
Location: Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Accommodation Name: Sails in the Desert Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly from Sydney to Uluru, where the vast red desert landscape welcomes you. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the resort or take in the stunning surroundings. As night falls, prepare for an enchanting experience at the Wintjiri Wiru Cultural Light Show. This immersive evening features captivating Indigenous storytelling, complemented by a spectacular drone light show and traditional music, all set against the majestic backdrop of Uluru. Delight in a memorable dinner under the stars, highlighting native Australian ingredients that connect you to the land’s rich culinary heritage. Your accommodation, Sails in the Desert, is a tranquil retreat inspired by the striking landscape, with an expansive pool for relaxation.
Day 6: Explore Uluru
Location: Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Accommodation Name: Sails in the Desert Hotel
This day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Uluru. Start your morning with a visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where you'll embark on a walk through Walpa Gorge. This ancient trail takes you through towering red rock formations, offering stunning views and the chance to connect with the unique flora and fauna of the area. This afternoon, take the iconic Uluru Base walk, a 10.6-kilometre journey around the base of this sacred monolith. Experience the ancient rock art and learn about the cultural significance of Uluru to the Anangu. As the sun begins to set, gather for drinks with a stunning view of Uluru bathed in golden light, a truly magical moment.
Day 7: Uluru – Port Douglas
Location: Uluru (Ayers Rock), Cairns
Accommodation Name: Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa
Begin with an memorable experience before sunrise when you visit the renowned Field of Light art installation by artist Bruce Munro. You'll wander through a stunning landscape adorned with 50,000 glass spheres in hues of ochre, deep violet, blue, and gentle white. Set against the backdrop of Uluru, this immersive artwork transforms as dawn breaks, creating a magical interplay of light and colour across the desert. After this unforgettable morning, fly from Uluru to Cairns, and transfer to the laidback coastal town of Port Douglas. Upon arrival at your hotel, take some time to enjoy the stunning tropical surroundings. The rest of the evening is at your leisure, allowing you to explore the local dining scene, stroll along Four Mile Beach, or simply bask in the serene atmosphere of this idyllic destination.
Day 8: Great Barrier Reef
Location: Port Douglas
Accommodation Name: Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Lunch
Set off on a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, on a cruise aboard the state-of-the-art sailing catamaran, Sailaway VI. You’ll sail to Low Isles, a stunning coral cay island surrounded by tranquil azure waters. Once there, unwind on the sun-soaked white sandy beaches or snorkel over vibrant coral gardens with a knowledgeable marine biologist, who will enhance your understanding of the reef's ecology. You can also explore the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat or embark on a guided heritage walk to learn about the island’s nature and history. Throughout the day, enjoy delicious refreshments, including morning tea with local produce, a tropical buffet lunch with a variety of seafood, followed by afternoon tea with fresh fruit. After a day on the reef, spend your evening at leisure, appreciating the world-renowned beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 9: Daintree Rainforest
Location: Daintree Rainforest
Accommodation Name: Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Connect with the ancient traditions of the Kuku Yalanji people on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as you explore the Daintree Rainforest. This World Heritage listed Site features stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, diverse animal and plant life. Walk through the rainforest, home to over 3000 plant species, including the towering Bull Kauri. End your day with a Celebration Dinner with wine, reflecting on your incredible experiences and cultural insights.
Day 10: Farewell From Port Douglas & Cairns
Location: Port Douglas
As your remarkable journey comes to a close, enjoy a private transfer from Port Douglas to Cairns Airport as you take with you unforgettable experiences.
What's Included
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Australia
The tour does not include international flights to and from Australia.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included in the tour package.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately by the traveler.
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Optional activities
Any optional activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel includes flights from Sydney to Uluru and Uluru to Cairns, along with a full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef aboard the Sailaway VI catamaran.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights of premium accommodation, including stays at the boutique Ace Hotel Sydney, the luxurious Sails in the Desert Hotel, and the serene Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 9 Full Breakfast (B)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Explore
- Discover Australia’s iconic landmarks. Explore the Sydney Opera House, marvel at the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef.
- Discover Australia’s iconic landmarks. Explore the Sydney Opera House, marvel at the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef.
Flight information
- IJSPD: Sydney to Port Douglas Flights to and from your tour are not included in the tour price. Day 1: flights to arrive prior to 2.30pm into Sydney AirportDay 10: flights to depart anytime from Cairns Airport Tour price includes internal holiday airfares, which AAT Kings will book in order to fulfil the holiday itinerary: Day 5: SYD-AYQDay 7: AYQ-CNS Private vehicle return airport hotel transfers are included in the price.
Immerse
- Learn about Australia’s rich culture through Indigenous storytelling at Uluru, traditional Kuku Yalanji practices in the Daintree Rainforest and on a private guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.
- Learn about Australia’s rich culture through Indigenous storytelling at Uluru, traditional Kuku Yalanji practices in the Daintree Rainforest and on a private guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Indulge
- Savour exceptional dining experiences showcasing the rich local culinary scene. From contemporary Australian dishes at Kiln to a curated multi-course meal at Crafted and a memorable dinner under the stars.
- Savour exceptional dining experiences showcasing the rich local culinary scene. From contemporary Australian dishes at Kiln to a curated multi-course meal at Crafted and a memorable dinner under the stars.
Relax
- Unwind in Sydney's stylish Ace Hotel, find serenity at Sails in the Desert, a remote retreat in the Red Centre, and relax in Port Douglas's tropical Peppers Beach Resort.
- Unwind in Sydney's stylish Ace Hotel, find serenity at Sails in the Desert, a remote retreat in the Red Center, and relax in Port Douglas's tropical Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a private guided tour of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, a visit to the Sydney Opera House, and an immersive experience at the Wintjiri Wiru Cultural Light Show featuring Indigenous storytelling and a light drone show. Additionally, there is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in the Daintree Rainforest with the Kuku Yalanji people.
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Are there any unique dining experiences on this tour?
Yes, the tour offers several unique dining experiences, including a welcome dinner at Kiln, a rooftop restaurant in Sydney, a multi-course dinner at Crafted by Matt Moran, a five-course degustation dinner in Sydney Harbour National Park, and a memorable dinner under the stars at Uluru featuring native Australian ingredients.
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What activities are planned at the Great Barrier Reef?
At the Great Barrier Reef, you will enjoy a full-day cruise aboard the Sailaway VI catamaran to Low Isles. Activities include snorkeling over vibrant coral gardens with a marine biologist, exploring the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat, and a guided heritage walk on the island.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The tour includes 9 nights of premium accommodation, with stays at the boutique Ace Hotel Sydney, the luxurious Sails in the Desert Hotel, and the serene Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas.
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Is there any free time during the tour for personal exploration?
Yes, there are several opportunities for personal exploration, including free afternoons in Sydney, Uluru, and Port Douglas, allowing you to explore at your own pace or relax in the surroundings.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It is important to adhere to departure times while on tour for the comfort of everyone on-board, and to make sure no one misses out on the planned experiences. The coach will not be able to wait for you, and in some instances, if you miss a departure time you will need to make your own way to the next destination to re-join the tour.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays have competitive single supplement rates available if you prefer to confirm your own room. Or we can match you to share with a guest of the same gender at no extra cost. If we fail to match you, we will accommodate you in a single room at no extra cost.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 100 years
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
We will email your documents to you approximately four weeks before your departure date provided you have completed your pre trip registration using the My Travel Portal. If you’ve booked through a travel agent, your documents will be emailed directly to your agent.
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Low Deposit
AAT Kings requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aat kings charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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