First Time Essentials
Independent Tour
SYDNEY | ULURU | PORT DOUGLAS | GREAT BARRIER REEF CRUISE | KURANDA
Welcome to one of the most iconic cities in the world, Sydney. Set on the shores of the harbour, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, fondly named by locals as the “Coathanger” because of its arched design welcomes your arrival. Next stop Uluru, indigenous story-telling and a palette full of rainbow colours from dawn till dusk. The secret is to take a photo every five minutes as that is how often the colours will change. Final stop Port Douglas, whether you prefer to be on top or underneath the ocean, the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system will not disappoint, home to a myriad of marine life. Back on dry land and the rainforest beckons guests whether you prefer to take a guided walk, ride the sky rail or take the scenic railway.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 : UK - Singapore
Take your outbound flight and arrive in Singapore.
Day 2-3 : Singapore
The dynamic city state of Singapore is a great place to break your journey to Australia or New Zealand with its colourful blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture. Stroll along Orchard Road and indulge in Singapore's
favourite pastime - shopping. With friendly and welcoming people and state-of-the-art infrastructure, a stay here will be a welcome break from a long flight.
Day 4 : Singapore - Sydney
On arrival in Sydney, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Day 5 : Sydney
Enjoy a morning tour of the major sights including the chance to take the iconic photo of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge before heading out to Bondi Beach. Return in time to join a cruise on Sydney harbour then the rest of the day is free.
Day 6-7 : Sydney
Now that you have your bearings you choose how to spend your time. For those with a head for heights, you may decide to join a guided climb of Sydney Harbour Bridge and get a different perspective of the city or take to the skies on a scenic sea plane, what a way to arrive for lunch. Seeking culture, an opera house performance and dinner will make for a romantic, classical evening. Something simpler take a stroll amongst the botanical gardens, with views across the harbour there are few places in the world than can provide such a picnic spot.
Day 8 : Uluru
Make your own way to the airport for your flight to Uluru, the remainder of the day is free to enjoy. You may wish to join an afternoon “Dot Painting” workshop, learn about the symbols and painting styles used to create beautiful works of art. Or simply embrace the desert lifestyle with laid back dining and a swimming pool to cool off in.
Day 9 : Uluru
Set your alarm for an early start as you set off to visit 2 major landmarks in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Start with an amazing sunrise over Uluru as the Red Centre awakens in a magical array of colour. Continue your journey and hear of the local history as your guide and driver take you to Kata Tjuta and Waipa Gorge. The sandstone domes are believed to be over 500 million years old. You will be taken back to your accommodation to rest and relax before this evening’s tour. Once collected you will be driven to a viewing platform where a glass of wine is served as the sun sets over Uluru. After sunset, transfer to an exclusive barbecue site to enjoy dinner. Your guide will conduct a tour of the night sky. Return to your hotel.
Day 10 : Port Douglas
You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cairns where you will be met and driven to Port Douglas, the gateway to 2 UNESCO World Heritage listed natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and the vast Daintree Rainforest. Stretch your legs on Four Mile beach and work up an appetite before heading to Macrossan Street which is lined with boutique shops and restaurants.
Day 11 : Great Barrier Reef
This morning board your 30 metre luxury sailing catamaran, Wavedancer. Your cruise is to Low Isle, an idyllic, unspoilt coral island that is a secluded tropical paradise! The wide, sandy beach and clear, calm lagoon waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. If you prefer to not get your hair wet you can join a glass bottom boat for coral viewing.
Day 12 : Kuranda
Your full day tour starts with a spectacular journey onboard Kuranda Scenic Railway up to the village of Kuranda. Your guide will meet you on the platform and show you around the village where you can enjoy free time meandering amongst colourful markets, shops, galleries and cafés. Mid-afternoon you return on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, glide over the rainforest with 2 stations to disembark at should you wish.
Your transfer will head up the coast to Palm Cove where you can discover the palm fringed esplanade before a sundowner (at own expense) overlooking the picturesque beach. Return transfers from your Port Douglas accommodation are included.
Day 13 : Port Douglas
A free day. Port Douglas is the only place on earth where 2 World Heritage listed jewels exist; the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Refresh and revitalise in the aquamarine reef waters of the Coral Sea, the crystal creeks of Mossman Gorge and the palm fringed golden sands of Port Douglas’ Four Mile Beach.
Day 14-16 : Port Douglas - Singapore
Your tour ends with a shuttle transfer from your hotel to Cairns Airport in time for your flight to Singapore.
Day 17 : Singapore - UK
Board your return flight to the UK.