Day 3 Cairns Aquarium
After breakfast, we’ll head to Melbourne’s airport to catch our flight north to Cairns. Upon arrival we’ll have an orientation and visit the Cairns Aquarium for an introduction to the diverse ecosystems of North Queensland's two World Heritage listed areas – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Visitors can explore coral displays, interactive touch tanks, and fascinating exhibits featuring sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.

Day 4 GBR Excursion
An excursion to the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable adventure, offering the chance to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Glide through crystal-clear waters teeming with coral gardens and colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. Options include observing the reef from a semi-submersible vessel, simply dipping your toes in, or snorkeling above the coral. It is a perfect activity for nature lovers and underwater explorers alike.

Day 5 Scenic Railway, Kuranda, Rainforest Cableway
From Cairns we board the Kuranda Scenic Railway and travel through World Heritage listed Barron River National Park. The mountain rail route was originally used to service the mining regions of the Atherton Tablelands. Free time upon arrival allows for investigation of the Kuranda Heritage Markets and boutique shops, a visit to Koala Gardens, or the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. We return to Cairns, not via train, but by the Rainforest Cableway known as the Skyrail, providing even more stunning views across the rainforest of the Wet Tropics.

Crystalbrook Flynn (3 nights)  https://www.crystalbrookcollection.com/flynn 

Day 6 Scenic Coast Drive
Today is a travel day as we fly south to Brisbane. Upon arrival we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Coffs Harbor. The drive from Brisbane to Coffs takes us along Australia’s beautiful Pacific Coast, featuring ocean views, rolling hinterlands, and charming coastal towns, making it a picturesque and relaxing journey.

Day 7 Board Walk Tour, Jetty Quarter, Scenic strolls
A free morning allows enjoyment of our resort accommodations. After lunch we'll explore the historic Jetty Quarter and then visit Sealey's Lookout for panoramic views of Coffs Harbor city and the surrounding coast. Then we will continue to Look At Me Now Headland to meet the local population of Eastern Grey kangaroos.

Aunuka Beach Resort (2 nights)   https://all.accor.com/hotel/B3H8/index.en.shtml 

Day 8 Dorrigo National Park
Our destination today is Uralla. A drive through the picturesque Bellinger Valley offers rolling green pastures, charming villages, and stunning mountain views. In Dorrigo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll enjoy a light hike through ancient rainforests and take in panoramic views from the Skywalk lookout. Continuing on, a visit to Ebor Falls reveals a two-tiered cascade surrounded by rugged cliffs and walking trails, providing the perfect finale to a day of natural beauty.

Day 9 Heritage Trail, Farm visit
Uralla boasts a blend of history, culture, and hands-on experiences. We’ll begin today with a walking tour of the Heritage Trail, exploring at the colonial past, bushranger (outlaw) lore, and local stories of the town. In the afternoon we’ll board our coach and head into the heart of rural Australia for a farm visit and to meet some local Aussie characters. Witness the skill and agility of working sheep or cattle dogs in action, showcasing Australia’s pastoral heritage.

The Bushranger Motor Inn, Uralla (2 nights)  https://www.bushrangermotorinn.com.au/ 

Day 10 Scenic drive, Rocks neighborhood
On our final journey south we’ll drive through the charming Hunter Valley, passing rolling vineyards and a picturesque countryside. Quick stops in Tamworth & Muswellbrook allow photo opportunities with a Giant Guitar and Magpie. Continuing south, the Pacific Highway crosses the Hawkesbury Basin with its many dramatic sandstone gorges. Arriving in Sydney we’ll enjoy an exploration of the colorful and engaging Rocks neighborhood, with iconic views of the famous Harbor Bridge and Opera House.

Day 11 Opera House, Botanical Garden
This morning we visit the renowned Sydney Opera House with a guided tour. We’ll have behind-the-scenes access and learn the unique construction and design story. After our Opera visit we'll take a guided walk through the Royal Botanic Garden. The walk ends at the Australian Museum, which you are free to visit at your own pace. Your afternoon is free for personal explorations.

Day 12 North Shore and Manly Beach
Today, we’ll ferry across Sydney’s harbor for discovering the North Shore and Manly Beach. Enjoy a scenic walk along the beautiful coastal path between Manly and Shelley Beaches, home to the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, a favorite local spot. There will be free time to investigate nearby beaches, rock pools, and dramatic sandstone headlands. We'll conclude our Australian journey with a Happy Hour and Q&A session with some Manly locals, and a final Aussie feast together.

Day 13
Tour over after breakfast. Imprint will assist with airport transfers.

A by Adina (3 nights)  https://abyadina.com/luxury-hotels/sydney/ 

Day 13 Uluru-Kata-Tjuta NP and Walpa Gorge
This morning we fly from Sydney to Uluru, the spiritual heart of the Australian Outback. Known formerly as Ayers Rock, the monolith dominates the surrounding desert landscape. This afternoon we explore the boulder formations and unique flora and fauna of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Our guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment and its cultural significance as a sacred Aboriginal site. At Walpa Gorge we’ll walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and learn how they have evolved over millions of years. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above. The spirituality of this place impresses everyone who ventures here. This evening is free for you to relax at our 5 star accommodation.

Day 2 Uluru Sunrise, Mutijulu, Field of Light
We need an early start today to travel to Uluru, its vast shape rising from the sand dunes in the early dawn light. Our guide will take us to a special location to watch the sun rise over the mighty rock. We will hear the Creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and learn about the Mala people. After a “bush breakfast” we visit Mutijulu Waterhole where we hear it’s story and see the rock art nearby. Then we'll drive around the base of Uluru before returning to our hotel. This evening we visit The Field of Light art installation. More than 50,000 slender stems crowned with lighted glass spheres glow as darkness falls. As far as the eye can see colored light illuminates the desert. Enjoy a three course dinner followed by an explanation of the southern night sky from the resident star talker. A truly magical way to round off our last evening together!

Day 2 Uluru
Return flight to Sydney. Extension ends at Sydney airport.

Sails in the Desert (2 nights)  https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/accommodation/sails-in-the-desert