18 Day From The Outback To The Glaciers

Your tour opens in Cairns, the tropical gateway to one of the world’s most spectacular natural attractions – the Great Barrier Reef (UNESCO). Established as a marine park in 1975, the reef is a haven for thousands of species of sea life, as well as turtles and birds.

The morning is yours to explore the town at your own pace or simply relax and soak up the tropical atmosphere. Perhaps you will take an optional tour on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for an unforgettable experience that takes you above the rainforest canopy for a bird’s-eye view of unspoiled natural beauty. This afternoon, visit Hartley’s Croc Farm for a chance to get up-close with crocodiles in their natural habitat. Boardwalks take you on a path of adventure through rainforests and woodlands to see animals such as wild birds, reptiles and wallabies. You may meet some of the local koalas and chat with a wildlife naturalist to learn more about these arboreal herbivores.

Board a catamaran and sail to the Low Isles to explore the fascinating underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Choose how you want to spend your day in paradise by making your time on the reef as educational or as laid back as you like. Perhaps you will relax and independently explore the pristine shores of this tiny sand island located on the outer reef. Or maybe you are a bit more adventurous and choose to snorkel, revealing a wealth of vibrant sea life. You also have the opportunity to meet with a marine biologist during an informative presentation. Or you may opt to join an expert for a beach and heritage trail walk along the island.

Fly to the beautiful Victorian city of Melbourne. Set upon the shores of Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra River, the city exudes a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Set out on a city tour and see Fitzroy Gardens, valued for their historic and horticultural significance, and the bustling “laneways” of Melbourne. Later, you may participate in an optional tour to Phillip Island, a renowned nature reserve and home of the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins. Protected and studied by rangers, hundreds waddle out of the sea and cross the beach to their burrows in the dunes. At the interpretation centre, you have a chance to learn about the lives of the Little Penguins and their significance to the area.

It’s on to the vast landscapes and tranquility of the Outback. Your flight takes you to Alice Springs, the perfect place to begin exploring this unique land. Tonight, continue your cultural immersion with a memorable bush dinner set against the backdrop of this unique desert environment.

Access the history and culture of the Walpiri Aboriginal people during a "Dreamtime Tour.” A specialist guide shares Aboriginal creation stories and explains everyday life. This afternoon, discover a more modern side to Outback living when you visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, a lifeline to thousands across the vast terrain of Central Australia. Later, tour the Old Telegraph Station and Anzac Hill with its excellent views of Alice Springs and the surrounding area.

Traverse the “Red Centre” as you drive to Uluru (the Aboriginal name for Ayers Rock) in the heart of the Australian Outback. This huge monolith and the sandstone domes known as Kata Tjuta were created through the process of upheaval and erosion. Tour the base of "the Rock," learning about its geology and significance to Aboriginal culture. Prepare for a truly majestic sunset as you witness the changing colours of Uluru accompanied by a champagne toast.

This morning, tour Kata Tjuta before saying farewell to the rugged Outback. Fly to Sydney, an energetic metropolis. Upon arrival in Sydney, enjoy dinner in lively Darling Harbour.

See where the original English colonists first settled in 1788 during a city tour of Sydney. Highlights of your tour include Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, the Botanic Gardens and the fashionable suburb of Darlinghurst. Discover one of the world’s most fascinating architectural sights as you take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, poised majestically on Sydney Harbour. Then you’re in for a unique experience as you learn firsthand about opals during a special presentation at the National Opal Collection. Later this evening, you may choose to take in an optional dinner and performance at the famous Opera House.

Deepen your exploration of Sydney’s many wonders with a day at leisure. Tonight, say your farewell to Australia by chatting with new friends and taking in the sights during a delightful dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour. Marvel at the scenic vistas the harbour has to offer including Sydney’s magnificent skyline and iconic attractions: the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

Leave Australia behind and fly to Queenstown, New Zealand. One of New Zealand’s most popular towns, Queenstown is nestled against a picturesque bay and snowcapped mountains. Home to ski resorts, hiking trails and an abundance of natural beauty, the city is known as the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Settle into your new home for 3 nights.

Soak in the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley as you travel through an ancient beech forest to Milford Sound via the Homer Tunnel. During a cruise, you’ll see why this fjord is one of the most visited sights on the South Island. With rock faces that rise nearly 4,000 feet on either side, the scenery will take your breath away. Following the cruise, return to Queenstown. You may choose to return via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

Enjoy a day at leisure. Shop in the bustling village centre or enjoy an optional and exhilarating jet boat ride on the Shotover River. Consider joining an optional tour through the majestic Queenstown countryside showcasing many of the locations where blockbuster movies have been filmed.

Set off for the beautiful 19th-century gold rush settlement of Arrowtown, a boomtown during the 1860’s gold fever. Sample the freshness of the Central Otago region with a stop at a local fruit stand. Follow the Kawarau River and cross Lindis Pass before arriving in New Zealand’s most famous national park – Mt. Cook. Savour some free time in this Alpine paradise. You may choose to take a nature walk, enjoy an optional glacier flightseeing tour (weather permitting) or simply meditate on the beauty of the Southern Alps.

Depart for Christchurch this morning and pay a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. A leader in the conservation of New Zealand species, Willowbank offers the chance to view New Zealand’s “Big 5” up close and personal. Later, join a local Kiwi family for a home hosted dinner.

Devastated by an earthquake in early 2011, see firsthand how the “Garden City” is recreating itself during a sightseeing tour that highlights the city’s magnificent gardens and elegant park district. The remainder of your day is free to continue exploring Christchurch on your own or perhaps enjoy an optional excursion to the International Antarctic Centre.

Your tour comes to a close, leaving you with many unforgettable memories of your South Pacific journey.