Journey Through Australia

(19 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Melbourne, Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, Perth (Rottnest Island or Pinnacles), Margaret River, Ayers Rock, Daintree Rainforest, Lizard Island, Sydney

This once-in-a-lifetime tour of Australia is for adventurous travelers eager to explore the country’s highlights: wildlife on Kangaroo Island, ancient rock art in the Outback, lush rainforests, and snorkeling or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Accommodation is at some of Australia's most exclusive wilderness retreats—all surrounded by truly spectacular, uniquely Australian landscapes, including Longitude 131° (Outback), Silky Oaks Lodge (rainforest) and Lizard Island Resort (Great Barrier Reef).

Begin in lively Melbourne. Enjoy flexible private touring of the city’s highlights, including the chic South Yarra neighborhood, the Victorian Arts Centre, famed sporting precincts such as the Melbourne Cricket Club, historic Cooks Cottage in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens, Federation Square and the Queen Victoria Markets—packed with exotic foods, clothing and crafts. Next, fly to the city of Adelaide, known for its gardens, antique shops, heritage architecture and many acclaimed restaurants. Tour the Central Market, the Art Gallery of South Australia, the Tandanya Aboriginal Cultural Institute, and the superb National Wine Centre of Australia. Spend an unforgettable day on Kangaroo Island to see spectacular rock formations, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife in their natural habitat, including kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, echidnas, goannas, platypuses, rare birds and even whales. Spend another day exploring the Barossa Valley—perhaps Australia’s premier wine region—visiting small wineries, sampling local cheeses and strolling through historic towns.

Continue to Perth, the largest city on the west coast. Spend a day on Rottnest Island to explore its spectacular coral fringed beaches on foot or by bike. Alternatively, spend an incredible day touring the arid desert, home to one of the world’s geological phenomenons: the Pinnacles. A helicopter transfer back to Perth allows you to view these striking limestone formations from above, rising out of the sand of Nambung National Park.

Next, you will be driven to the acclaimed Margaret River region, famous for its wineries and an ideal base to enjoy coastal scenery, wine tasting and caving. Stay at an intimate country estate set within acres of manicured gardens and natural forest.

Continue to Ayers Rock (Uluru), surrounded by vast blue sky and red earth in Australia’s beautiful Red Centre. With your expert private guide, enjoy comprehensive touring in the region. Learn about Aboriginal bushtucker cuisine and legends of the Dreamtime. Tour the base of Ayers Rock and view Aboriginal rock art in caves and waterholes (billabongs). Walk through the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) and nearby sand dunes. Take desert walks and learn about the unique flora and fauna in the Outback. One night, dine under the stars while an astronomer points out the southern constellations in the clear desert night sky and a didjeridoo musician drones in the background.

Next, fly to Tropical North Queensland for a stay at the decadent Silky Oaks Lodge. While there, enjoy a private tour of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest—the world’s oldest living rainforest and a protected World Heritage site.

Continue to Lizard Island, one of Australia’s most unique resorts. Enjoy the luxurious surroundings and ample time for snorkeling or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Or simply enjoy scenic walks on the island and relaxing spa treatments.

Finally, visit Sydney. With your private guide, explore the historic Rocks district, walk through the beautiful Sydney Botanic Gardens and browse food and craft markets. Visit galleries and unique shops in vibrant neighborhoods such as Surry Hills, Woolloomooloo and Paddington. Drive past exclusive homes and yacht clubs in Double Bay and Vaucluse. From bustling Darling Harbor, depart on a private cruise around Sydney Harbor. During free time, the options are endless: Dine at world-renowned restaurants, shop for Aboriginal art or modern Australian design, visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, partake in the adventurous Sydney BridgeClimb, or have a picnic on Bondi Beach. One evening, you will attend dinner and a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House.