Australia's Rugged Outback and Beautiful Reefs | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Australia’s Rugged Outback and Beautiful Reefs

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PRIVATE/GROUP TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

Private/Group Tour Highlights

  • Visit Agincourt Reef at the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef where special reefs known as ribbons run parallel to the Continental Shelf.
  • Stop at Calmsley Hill, a working farm home to Kangaroo, Emu, Wombat and Koala.
  • Wander into the lush rainforest of the Daintree National Park, and experience one of the world's oldest and most beautiful rainforests.
  • Watch the sun rise over Ayers Rock and hear about the Mala people.
  • Step aboard the legendary Ghan train and enjoy the passing scenery of the Outback while dinner is served in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant.
  • Begin the tour with a Sensational Sydney cruise of the harbor and its iconic sites.
  • immerse yourself in the beauty and mystery of Australia's deserts as you wander through the ancient landscapes from dry river beds to dense woodlands full of life.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Get a full experience of the country’s beautifully diverse landscape while exploring Australia’s Rugged Outback and Beautiful Reefs.

Yampu Travelers will begin by exploring the essential must-sees of Sydney including a cruise through the famous harbor and a tour of the city’s most known attraction, the Sydney Opera House. The tour doesn’t end there! End the day with an exhilarating bridge scaling for a unique 360 view of the entire harbor. After a fun day in Sydney, travelers will travel to the Blue Mountains to soak in Australia’s vast landscape and possibly get a glimpse of Koala and kangaroo.

A Tour of Australia is not complete without venturing through the Outback. Hop a quick flight from Sydney to Uluru to watch the sunrise over the amazing monolith, Ayers Rock. Cap the day off with a tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to learn of the region’s natural and spiritual significance as a sacred Aboriginal men’s ceremonial site.

Immerse yourself in the beauty and mystery of Australia’s deserts as you wander through the ancient landscapes from dry river beds to dense woodlands of Kings Canyon and Alice Springs for a full Outback experience. Head back to the east coast aboard The Ghan to Darwin, enjoying the outback scenery passing by. Once back on the coast, spend some days at leisure exploring Mary River with its diverse fauna such as crocodiles, buffalo, wild horses and migratory birds.

Finally, in Cairns, Yampu Travelers will spend their last few days in Australia taking in the rich colors of the reefs and aquatic life with an Outer Barrier Reef Cruise before wandering the lush rainforest of Daintree.

Inclusions
Price includes domestic and regional flights within the itinerary; all hotel accommodations including daily continental or buffet breakfast and daily city tax; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; guided tours in English including entrance fees.
Exclusions

International airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services and other personal items or services not mentioned.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International Flight to Sydney

Upon arrival to Sydney, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

Upon arrival to Sydney, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

Day
2

Sensational Sydney Experience

Group Sensational Sydney Cruise
Begin your day with a Sensational Sydney 2 hour cruise that visits the Harbour's stand out attractions. Take in the sights and delights with a small group of like-minded individuals whilst navigating the waterways of Sydney harbour. Your informative captain and crew will entertain you throughout your two hour morning cruise. Whilst at sea enjoy a refreshing morning tea, served with coffee, tea and juice.
Group Opera House Tour
More than 60 years ago, Jorn Utzon designed what is now considered one of the greatest buildings of all time. But for Utzon, the Sydney Opera House story was no fairy tale. The 1 hour tour brings to life the saga behind the making of the world's most famous house. Your guide will take you on an emotional journey inside this modern masterpiece, putting Jorn Utzon on centre stage and is a tribute to his creative genius. You will discover why Utzon was more than an architect: he was an architect of change. And how, against a landslide of political and public criticism, he created the youngest building ever to be World Heritage listed. You will be taken inside one of the working venues to experience the magic behind the world's most extraordinary opera, ballet, symphony and dramatic performances.
Note: The Sydney Opera House Tour includes up to 200 steps. Flat, enclosed rubber soled shoes must be worn. While on a tour, all bags larger than an A4 size will need to be cloaked. A complimentary, secure cloaking facility is available near the tour desk.
Group Sydney Bridge Climb Tour
Your 3.5 hour tour commences with a comprehensive briefing and safety demonstration, before you are led by one of BridgeClimb's Climb Leaders, on a guided journey (including preparation and briefing), to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The tour takes you along the top arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. The steady incline to the summit leaves you free to focus your attention on the surroundings, with the opportunity to witness 360 degree views of Sydney including east to the Sydney Opera House, west to the Blue Mountains and the Harbour City surrounds. Upon conclusion receive a photograph of your group, a personalised commemorative climbing tour certificate and cap. Make your own way to your Sydney accommodation.
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Day
3

Day to Explore Sydney

Today will be at your leisure to relax and explore Sydney on your own.

Today will be at your leisure to relax and explore Sydney on your own.

Day
4

Sydney - Uluru (Ayers Rock)

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Uluru.

Domestic Flight to Uluru

Upon arrival to Uluru, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Uluru.

Domestic Flight to Uluru

Upon arrival to Uluru, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

plane-home-flight
Day
5

Uluru Highlights & Kata Tjuta Domes

Group Morning SEIT Uluru Highlights Tour
Your 3 hour tour commences with a transfer from your hotel, where you will travel towards Uluru. Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its presence in this country. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing monolith. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. After breakfast you will visit Mutitjulu Waterhole and then drive around the base of the Uluru. Return to Ayers Rock Resort, where you will be transferred to your accommodation.


Group Afternoon SEIT Kata Tjuta Domes Tour
This 3 hour tour travels to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, to a place where unique flora and fauna thrive - Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment and describe the cultural significance of Kata Tjuta as a sacred Aboriginal men's ceremonial site. Arriving at Walpa Gorge, walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes that make up Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls that surround you. The spirituality of this amazing location embraces everyone who ventures here. Your guide will return you to your hotel in time for those people joining the Sounds of Silence dinner, Tali Wiru dinner or Field of Lights.

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Day
6

Uluru (Ayers Rock) - Kings Canyon

Morning read more...

Morning to Explore Ayers Rock
This morning will be at your leisure to relax and explore Ayers Rock on your own.
Group Afternoon Ayers Rock to Kings Canyon Tour
Your 4 to 4.5 hour tour travels through spectacular desert scenery from Ayers Rock Resort, stopping at Angus Downs. Pass through Curtin Springs and view Atila (Mt. Conner). After turning off the Lasseter Highway and onto Luritja Road your Driver Guide will provide informative commentary about the history of the surrounding cattle stations on the way to your accommodation at Kings Canyon. Arrive at Kings Canyon Resort before dusk. You may have time to view the stunning sunset behind Carmichaels Crag to finish off the day.
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Day
7

Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Group Morning Kings Canyon Scenic Climb Tour
This 4 hour tour commences with your transfer from your Kings Canyon accommodation to Watarrka National Park. Your guide will escort you on the rocky climb to the rim of Kings Canyon. The views of Watarrka National Park from the top of the canyon are magnificent as are the views down into the canyon itself. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to view the canyon gorge at lookout points. Time permitting, you may choose to descend to the green oasis of the "Garden of Eden". Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder strewn canyon floor with your Driver/Guide. At the completion of the tour you will be transferred to your Kings Canyon accommodation.
Note: The Kings Canyon Rim walk may take up to 3 hours, and is rocky and steep in places. It is for those with a good level of fitness.
Group Afternoon Kings Canyon to Alice Springs Tour
Your 7.25 hour journey from Kings Canyon to Alice Springs will take you through beautiful desert landscapes. Stop at Kings Creek Station, a working cattle/camel station for lunch (own expense). After a brief stop at Angus Downs, stop at Erldunda Roadhouse for afternoon tea (own expense). Travel along the Stuart Highway before arriving at Alice Springs, where you will be transferred to your Alice Springs accommodation.
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Day
8

Alice Springs - Darwin On board The Ghan train

Group Desert Park Tour
Our deserts are rich with life with thousands of stories to be explored. Experience the spirit of a living culture; explore a vibrant botanic wonderland and get up close with outback animals and characters that epitomise the fun and adventurous spirit of the red centre.
Walk the Desert Park and immerse yourself in the beauty and mystery of Australia's deserts as you wander through the ancient landscapes from dry river beds to dense woodlands full of life. Experience the night during the day in the Nocturnal House and see animals once found in abundance across the desert. Be inspired by ancient living cultures and feel the spirit with local Aboriginal guides at daily presentations. Marvel at the energy and adrenaline of free flying birds as they soar through crystal blue skies.
At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to Railway Station.

Evening Great Southern Rail Tour, All Meals Included
Step aboard the legendary Ghan early evening and acquaint yourself with the friendly staff and facilities on board. Relax in your cabin or mingle with fellow travellers in the Lounge car. Enjoy the passing scenery of the Outback while dinner is served in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant.
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Day
9

Visit Katherine on board The Ghan to Darwin

Start your day with an early breakfast so that you can make the most of your time in Katherine. Take a leisurely cruise on the Katherine River or gain an insight into the traditional owners of Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, the Jawoyn people, with a tailor made cultural experience. You may choose to upgrade your excursion with scenic helicopter flight providing magnificent views over Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks (not included.) Depart Katherine early in the afternoon and enjoy lunch on board as the lush tropical vegetation heralds your arrival into Darwin early in the evening.

Upon arrival to Darwin, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.
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Day
10

Darwin - Mary River

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to Your Hotel in Mary River.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to Your Hotel in Mary River.

Day
11

Explore Mary River

Today will be at your leisure to relax and explore Mary River on your own.

Today will be at your leisure to relax and explore Mary River on your own.

Day
12

Mary River - Darwin - Cairns

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport in Darwin for your flight to Cairns.

Domestic Flight to Cairns

Upon arrival to Cairns, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport in Darwin for your flight to Cairns.

Domestic Flight to Cairns

Upon arrival to Cairns, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

Day
13

Group Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Cruise

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Port Douglas Marina, where you will board your vessel for your 6.5 hour tour. Visit Agincourt Reef which is located at the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Here, special reefs known as ribbons run parallel to the Continental Shelf. Adjacent to the Coral Sea trench, these ribbon reefs are recognized as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef's environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life. Upon arrival at Port Douglas Marina you will be transferred by coach to your accommodation. ...read less

Day
14

Full Day Daintree Dreaming Tour

This nearly 11 hour tour will travel to Cooya Beach (Kuyu Kuyu) which is a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji people. Join one of the Kubirri Warra brothers on their beach, mudflat and mangrove walks followed by an introduction to traditional fishing and gathering techniques with the aim of finding your own tucker (food). Visit Mossman Gorge where you will be welcomed with a traditional 'smoking' ceremony conducted by Aboriginal people which will protect you whilst visiting Kuku Yalanji country. Wander into the lush rainforest of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge and experience one of the world's oldest and most beautiful rainforests. Enjoy an easy walk across boardwalks, tracks and bridges, view spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges. Your guide will explain the rich flora, fauna and eco system of this amazing rainforest. You will have the opportunity to swim in a beautiful private swimming hole encased in the rainforest. You will return to Cairns, where you will be transferred to your accommodation. ...read less

Day
15

International Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to home.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to home.

Sydney NSW, Australia

Uluru, Petermann NT, Australia

Kings Canyon, Petermann NT, Australia

Alice Springs NT, Australia

Darwin NT, Australia

Mary River, Queensland, Australia

Cairns QLD, Australia

Katherine NT, Australia

Places You'll See

  • Sydney-Australia-Opera-House

    Sydney

    Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Cruise under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs of Paddington. As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24/7 fun.

  • Uluru

    A sacred area to the local aboriginal people is the famous Uluru Rock located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Home to an abundance of cave paintings, springs as well as local wildlife and vegetation, Uluru is a spectacular destination to visit. From the perfect vantage point, view the incredible desert sun setting behind the gargantuan rock.

  • Kings Canyon

    Watarrka National Park is best known as the home of Kings Canyon, a mighty chasm cleaving the earth to a depth of 270 metres. Located 450 kilometres south west of Alice Springs in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta region of the Northern Territory. The Park encompasses the western end of the George Gill Range and is home to a variety of unique native flora and fauna, including over 600 different plant species. Accommodation can be found within the Park at Kings Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station.

  • Alice Springs

    Framed by the MacDonnell Ranges and an intense desert landscape, the township of Alice Springs is Australia’s most famous outback town. Afghan cameleers, flying doctors, outback explorers, a rich cast of characters and the towns isolation has lead to the creation of an unrivalled community identity and a wealth of interesting events and sights. The desert climate and landscape of “the Alice” allows for a variety of adventurous activities including quad and mountain-bike riding, trekking along the Larapinta Trail, four-wheel driving, bush camping and swimming in lush waterholes. Alive with culture and Aboriginal art, the pedestrian-only Todd Mall gives a sneak peek into the traditions and stories of the Arrernte people with water colours of desert landscapes and dot paintings of the seasons.

  • Darwin

    Darwin has a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and enjoys warm weather all year round. Perched on a peninsula with sea on three sides, Darwin is an excellent base to explore the natural attractions of World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land. Darwin’s colourful history has contributed to its cultural diversity – more than 50 nationalities make up its 100,000 population, including the area’s traditional landowners, the Larrakia Aboriginal people. The cultural and culinary benefits of such a melting pot are best experienced at Darwin’s weekly markets, variety of restaurants and through the annual calendar of festivals and other events.

  • Mary River

    The calm waters of the Mary River are best enjoyed on a fishing trip or nature cruise. The Mary River area, between Darwin and Kakadu on the Arnhem Highway, is an angler’s paradise, literally jumping with barramundi and other tropical estuarine species. Wildlife spotting cruises are another ideal way to explore the area. Diverse fauna such as crocodiles, buffalo, wild horses and migratory birds are frequently seen.

  • Cairns

    Pronounced like “cans” , the city of Cairns, Australia is known as the entry gate into the country’s magnificent Great Barrier Reef as well as the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Visitors can appreciate the laidback coastal lifestyle before enjoying a once in a lifetime tour to view the reefs. Take in magnificent views of the rainforest high above the forest canopy on a Skyrail ride. Those who want to witness the rainforest up close can hop a train on a historic railway to weave past gorges and waterfalls before learning of the city’s Aboriginal culture and history.

Hotel Options

Featured Accommodation

Wildman Wilderness Lodge

Surrounded by the lush beauty of the Daintree National Park and overlooking the Mossman River, the property blends the soothing qualities of the ancient rainforest with the stylish indulgences of a contemporary retreat. Enjoy the wonders of nature and the comfort of a private Treehouse, delight in fine food and relaxing spa treatments. Whilst the serenity of the Lodge may make the modern world feel far away, it’s only a 20 minute drive to the town of Port Douglas.

Mary RIver ,

4 Star Properties

Cairns : Silky Oaks Lodge

5 Star Properties

Sydney : Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Uluru : Sails in the Desert Hotel

Kings Canyon : Kings Canyon Resort

Alice Springs : DoubleTree by Hilton

Darwin : Skycity Hotel Darwin

Testimonials

Bryony and Peter C, from Australia

Traveled April, 2013

Everything went completely to plan and we cannot speak highly enough of all our guides

Just letting you know that we arrived safely back in Australia today. We would like to thank you for arranging such a great trip through central-america for us. Everything went completely to plan and we cannot speak highly enough of all our guides. We were picked up and dropped off at the advised times with the minimum of fuss, tours were excellent, well planned and our guides were extremely knowledgeable and easy to get on with. Our accommodation was very good and all included meals were of top quality and organized for our requests.

Chris

Traveled July, 2007

Thank you so much for looking after us so well.

My girlfriend, Annie, and I had the most awesome time in South America. We arrived to snow which was a bit of bonus for me, coming from Australia. Apparently it was the first time in 80 years that they had had snow in BsAs (Buenos Aires).The Kempinski Hotel was absolutely fabulous. They had a helpful staff, and it was probably the best position in town for us. They looked after our luggage while we went off to Iguazu Falls and Uruguay, and couldn’t have been more helpful.In fact, all arrangements were on time in Argentina (apart from Aerolinas’ flights!) and after that first hiccup I must say we were impressed.Iguazu Falls, what can I say? You booked the Grand Adventure for us and I shall never forget the boat trip and seeing the falls for the first time from the water! It was awesome. I am so glad we booked the Sheraton Hotel for its situation.Staff at all hotels were excellent. Mabel and Mercedes at Colonia sorted out our vouchers and travel details for us, and we found that one of the male members on staff at The Balmoral spoke excellent English and even tuned the TV in so that we could watch the BBC World News.I would definitely recommend the tour we did and we are even talking about seeing more of Argentina later on, perhaps combining it with a trip to Chile.We met some very interesting people and thoroughly enjoyed all our tours. Thank you so much for looking after us so well.

Traveled To


Paul from Australia

Traveled March, 2013

Thanks again for your co-ordination of our trip

Just to advise you that we arrived home in Australia yesterday after another successful trip to Chile and Argentina (plus a short side trip to Uruguay!). Apart from a couple of hiccups in the first half of the trip that you were aware of, the trip overall went very well. All the connections worked out, the hotel/hospedaje accommodation was overall very good, with some outstanding (e.g. Tierra Atacama, KKala, Nothofagus, Entre Hielos) and we lucked a presidential suite (without the President) at the Hotel Antofagasta. Bahia Bustamante was also a refreshing highlight. The guide services also worked out well and as it eventuated, all aspects of the original itinerary were met, including the remote area crossing from Chile into Argentina from Cochrane to Los Antiguos. There were many geographic, geological and cultural highlights and we were generally very fortunate with weather conditions. Thanks again for your co-ordination of our trip. Graham and Anita were spending an extra couple of days in Santiago and return to Australia tomorrow.

Traveled To



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