10 Days: Outback Vacation, Ayers Rock and Sydney [BU-G22S]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Darwin (2 Nights), Ghan (1), Alice Springs (1), Ayers Rock (2), Sydney (2)
  • US Domestic Flights and International Flights not included
  • Australia Domestic Flights: Ayers Rock to Sydney
  • Shuttle Transfers - Darwin Airport to Accommodation, Alice Springs Train Station to Accommodation, Ayers Rock Accommodation to Airport, Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours Included - Darwin: Kakadu National Park Explorer with Lunch; Alice Springs: Travel by Deluxe Coach from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock; Ayers Rock: A Night at Field of Light, Piti Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas & Cultural Center
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - International Flight to Darwin via Brisbane (Not Included - Ask About Current Flight Deals)

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

(Day 2) - Private Transfer, Darwin Airport to Accommodation

Private car transfer from the airport to your vacation accommodation.

(Day 3) - Day Tour, Kakadu National Park Explorer with Lunch

Visit Kakadu National Park, enjoy Arnhem Land Escarpment, take a cruise along the famous Yellow Water billabong and learn about the history of the area.

World Heritage-listed and the largest National Park in Australia, Kakadu is one of the most diverse landscapes you’ll ever experience. You’ll be amazed at the population of wildlife in the water, on the land and in the air. See some of the most amazing terrain Australia has to offer on your way to and inside Kakadu. Marvel at the concentration of rock art sites that illustrate Aboriginal culture, some dating back 50,000 years.

Kakadu’s vast wetlands and ancient escarpment are home to one of Australia’s largest and most diverse bird populations and carry outstanding natural and cultural significance.

At Jabiru, visit the Aboriginal Cultural Center, or for an additional cost enjoy a 50-minute scenic flight over the Arnhem Land Escarpment and take in the beauty of the region from the air.

Afterwards, join a wonderful, guided cruise on famous Yellow Water billabong and keep an eye out for wildlife inhabiting the billabong and its surrounds. You may even spot crocodiles!

Then travel to Nourlangie Rock to view a variety of ancient Aboriginal rock art. The shelters at Nourlangie Rock contain amazing paintings that represent the Aboriginal Dreaming with depictions of Namandi spirits. There are even paintings of Tasmanian Tigers – known to have been extinct for 3500 years.

Operates:
Varies based on season. Not operating on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
Departs 6:30am, Returns 7:30pm (approximately)

Includes:
– Lunch
– National Park entry fee
– Comprehensive commentary

Need to Know:
Wear enclosed walking shoes and bring sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and warm layers in cooler months. Low level of fitness required. Includes a 10-15-minute walk on uneven ground with a gradual climb to the viewing point.

Upgrades
Upgrade with a scenic flight over Arnhem Land Escarpment (additional cost).

(Days 2 to 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Darwin

Travel to your accommodation in Darwin, Australia where you will be staying on vacation for 2 nights.

Located in the heart of Darwin, your accommodation combines sophisticated city chic with Darwin’s famous laid back, tropical culture. It is also a perfect base for travellers looking to explore NT’s stunning natural beauty and abundant local tourist attractions.

(Day 4) - Taxi from Darwin Accommodation to Train Station (pay as you go)

Taxi or ride share transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah

(Days 4 to 5) - 1 Night Aboard the Ghan, Darwin to Alice Springs

The Ghan – Outback Australian Train Journey, Northern Territory (1 night).

Experience one of the most fascinating legendary train journeys of the world on The Ghan. The transcontinental journey between Darwin and Adelaide (or vice versa) covers 2979kms and fully accommodates passengers for the two day ride. You’ll join the journey between Darwin and Alice Springs only.

Marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes; from the rusty reds of the MacDonnell Ranges surrounding a town called Alice, gateway to Ayers Rock and the Red Centre, Tennant Creek, Katherine and the tropical splendour of Darwin. The Ghan first departed Adelaide for Alice Springs on 4 August 1929, it was always intended that it would one day travel through to Darwin. That dream became reality on 8 February 2004.

(Day 5) - Shuttle Transfer, Alice Springs Ghan Station to Accommodation

Travel by private car from the Train Depot to your vacation accommodation in Alice Springs, Australia.

(Days 5 to 6) - 1 Night Accommodation in Alice Springs

Travel to your accomodation in the heart of Australia and the Outback, Alice Springs, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Alice Springs, Australia’s Oasis, is also known as the capital of the Outback and the most romantic country town in the world. It’s where the Arrernte Aboriginal tribal group has lived for 20,000 years and where pioneer men and women gave “tough” a new meaning. Whilst on your vacation, take advantage of the many attractions available in Alice Springs. Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Alice Springs School of the Air, Central Australian Aviation Museum, the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Old Stuart Town Gaol. Travel by coach or car to explore the unique scenery of Australia’s Outback and its magnificent monolith – Uluru.

(Day 6) - Day Tour, Travel by Deluxe Coach from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock / Uluru

Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) aboard a luxury coach.

Getting to Uluru from Alice Springs is an easy, scenic ride through Australia’s red outback. Take in the rugged desert landscapes, passing through the reds and oranges of the MacDonnell Ranges. While traveling through this remote country, your friendly Driver will share informative and entertaining commentary. Learn about the natural and geological history of the region. Hear about the traditional customs and stories of the local Aboriginal people, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna. Learn about native animals such as the Perentie monitor lizard, the thorny devil and the red kangaroo. There is time for a stop for a quick break then view flat-topped Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Operates
May – August 2023: Daily; September – November 2023: Tuesday – Sunday; December – February 2024: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; March 2024: Tuesday – Sunday
Departs Alice Springs at 7:00am, Arrives in Ayers Rock at 1:00pm (approx.)

Includes
– Pickup from Alice Springs hotel
– Informative commentary

Need to Know
Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and snacks.

(Days 6 to 8) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Ayers Rock

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia, the Red Centre, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

If you are looking to experience traditional hospitality of Australia, this 3 1/2 Star vacation accommodation offers comfortable, affordable rooms combined with quality service in relaxed surroundings. Relax from your travel by enjoying a beer, swap stories of your day’s adventures, or sing along with the nightly entertainment. Or maybe barbecue some of the delicacies of Australia on the do-it-yourself BBQ. At any rate, this vacation accommodation is a place where friendships are made and good times are had by all.

Airport shuttle transfers included.

(Day 6) Evening Event, Field of Light Pass (When Available)

As darkness falls, the desert surrounding Uluru transforms into a magical field of light which was specially designed by British artist Bruce Munro.

The exhibition, aptly named Tali Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or “looking at lots of beautiful lights” in local Pitjantjatjara is Munro’s largest work to date.

Overwhelming in size, covering more than seven football fields, it invites immersion in its fantasy garden of 50,000 spindles of light, the stems breathing and swaying through a sympathetic desert spectrum of ochre, deep violet, blue and gentle white.

The tour finishes with a relaxing ride back to your accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Departs 30 minutes after sunset, Returns 2 hours later (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers to Ayers Rock accommodation
– Entry into the Field of Light

Need to Know
– Very limited wheelchair accessibility. Assistance available on request
– Child strollers are not allowed
– This is a self-guided tour
– Please wear long pants and toe-covered shoes
– Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances

Upgrades
Access to the raised viewing area with views of Uluru

Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Sounds of Silence Dinner

This dining experience offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours under the sparkling outback sky.

You will begin with canapes and chilled sparkling wine upon a dune-top overlooking the Ulutu-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo and join your table of fellow travelers for an unforgettable dining experience.

Your attentive staff will offer a selection of Australian wine and beer while the first course is served at your table. As the night sky twinkles to life, you will be welcomed to an interactive chef’s station where you will be served your choice from a freshly prepared, bush tucker inspired menu incorporating native bush ingredients.

Settle back and listen to the resident star-talker decode the southern night sky. Locate the Southern Cross, the signs of the zodiac, the Milky Way, as well as planets and galaxies that are visible due to the exceptional clarity of the atmosphere.

The tour finishes with a relaxing ride back to your accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Departs 1 hour prior to sunset, Returns 4.5 hours later (approx.)
Tour operates Christmas Day for an additional cost

Includes
– Return transfers to Ayers Rock accommodation
– Outback style canapes
– A three-course bush tucker inspired buffet
– Didgeridoo performance
– Guided tour of the night sky

Need to Know
– Children 9 and under are not permitted
– Very limited wheelchair accessibility. Assistance available on request
– Child strollers are not allowed
– Please wear long pants and toe-covered shoes
– Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances
– This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Upgrades
Field of Light Dinner

(Day 7) - Day Tour, Piti Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas & Cultural Center

Witness the stunning Uluru sunrise and sunset, venture out on the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta and discover the fascinating stories of Uluru on a guided base tour.

Sunrise/Morning
The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park.

The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

Sunset/Afternoon
Talk a short walk at the base of Uluru with your Driver Guide and view ancient paintings and hear stories of traditional Anangu life.

Then head off to the Uluru sunset viewing area. On arrival you’ll be served from a selection of Australian wines and nibbles.

You can just sit and relax or stroll around the area to find your own personal space to watch an amazing outback sunset.

Operates
Daily
Morning tour pick-ups are 1.5 hours before sunrise and returns approximately 11:00 – 11:30am, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal). Afternoon tour pick-ups are 2:30pm – 3:00pm and returns half an hour after sunset, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal).

Includes
– National Park Pass (Entry fee included – Valid for 3 consecutive days)
– Return Transfers to Accommodation
– Experienced Driver/Guide
– Comprehensive commentary
– Air conditioned coach

Need to Know
Full breakfast is not provided. Bringing snacks for breakfast is recommended. Please wear closed walking shoes and warm layers in cooler months. Bring your own water bottle, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.

Upgrades
BBQ Dinner

Photo: Tourism NT

(Day 8) - Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the Red Centre at Ayers Rock to Sydney.

(Day 8) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

(Days 8 to 10) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your accommodation is located on George Street, right in the heart of the city, with easy access to major attractions such as Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, and all the shopping of the CBD.

(Day 9) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

(Day 10) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

(Day 10) - International Flight to Hometown (Not Included - Ask About Current Flight Deals)

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

Packages by About Australia, a fully bonded and ARC Accredited travel company.