Australia Family Adventure

Itinerary

• Australia

  Australia is the world's smallest continent, and includes Tasmania and other islands. Prior to European settlement in the late 1700s and early 1800s, the Australian mainland was inhabited by around 250 individual nations of indigenous Australians for around 40,000 years. After sporadic visits by fishermen from the north and then European discovery by Dutch explorers in 1606, the eastern half of Australia was later claimed by the British in 1770 and initially settled through penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales. As the population grew and new areas were explored, another five largely self-governing Crown Colonies were established during the 19th century. On 1 January 1901, the six colonies became a federation, and the Commonwealth of Australia was formed. \There are iconic sights "down under" that find their way on most itineraries; Sydney (Opera House, Harbour Bridge), Ayers Rock, the Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne. Other gems include the wild nature of Tasmania, vineyards of Hunter Valley, surfing on the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Darwin ... and more.

• Atherton Tablelands

  The Atherton Tablelands (also known as the Cairns Highlands) is 90kms south-west of Cairns ranges from 500m to 1280m above sea level and covers 620km². Cairns Highlands total population is approximately 12,000 people.Cairns Highlands is renowned for its mild tropical climate and is spared the climatic extremes of floods, droughts and destructive cyclonic winds. Its pleasant temperatures range between 17°C and 25°C from September to June and between 5°C and 14°C from July to August. Cairns Highlands enjoys cool summer nights and mild, sunny winter days and does not suffer from the high humidity experienced in coastal areas.

• Ayers Rock

  Uluru, also referred to as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory, central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs; 450 km (280 mi) by road. Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Uluru are the two major features of the Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. It has many springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Uluru is listed as a World Heritage Site.

• Cairns

  The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for 2,600 kilometres (1,600 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. The Great Barrier Reef supports a wide diversity of life, and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981.

• Melbourne

  Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, and is located around Port Phillip Bay in the south-east. The city is often referred to as Australia's 'sporting and cultural capital' and it is home to many of the nation's most significant cultural and sporting events and institutions. Melbourne is notable for its mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture, its extensive tram network and Victorian parks and gardens, as well as its diverse, multicultural society.

• Sydney

  Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 4.28 million. It is the state capital of New South Wales, and the site of the first British colony in Australia, established in 1788 at Sydney Cove by Arthur Phillip, leader of the First Fleet from Britain. Located on Australia's south-east coast, the city is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city's nickname, "the Harbour City". It is noted for the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, and its beaches. The metropolitan area is surrounded by national parks, and contains many bays, rivers and inlets.

• • Great Barrier Reef
  • Cairns Harbour Lights Lobby

  Day 1: Cairns

  Private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel, or vice versa.

  Upon check in at your hotel you will be provided with your document package. In the document package you shall receive a welcome letter, detailed itinerary, vouchers for each service, supplier contact list as well as brochures of some of the destinations you will be visiting.

  Accommodation: The Sebel Harbour Lights (4.5*)

  Ideally situated on Cairns' stunning waterfront with amazing views over the marina, The Sebel Harbour Lights (4.5*) offers fully self-contained apartments with furnished balconies that make the most of the stunning views of the marina, Marlin Parade or parklands. Boasting a central location in the heart of Cairns, take advantage of easy access to the major shopping areas, restaurants and attractions of Cairns as well as first class facilities which include an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and spa pool.

• • Australian Gannet

  Day 2: Cairns

  Join fellow travellers on a memorable tour of the famous Great Barrier Reef. Michaelmas Cay is a picturesque reef sand island surrounded by magical coral gardens teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The Cay is a protected seabird sanctuary playing host to over 20,000 migratory seabirds ... one of the most important nesting sights in the Southern Hemisphere. Set Sail aboard a five star catamaran and enjoy a reef experience - a day to remember .

  Accommodation: The Sebel Harbour Lights (4.5*)
• • Atherton Tablelands
  • Rose Gums Wildnerness Retreat

  Day 3: Cairns - Atherton Tablelands

  You will be picked up by private car and English speaking driver and transfer between Cairns and Atherton Tablelands.

  Accommodation: Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*)

  Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*) is 230 acres of pure paradise situated just ten minutes from Lake Eacham in the Cairns Highlands. The treehouses sit in elevated rainforest surroundings looking out over Wooroonooran National Park. All luxurious pole and timber treehouses are totally private and feature large spas, cosy fireplaces and balconies with stunning mountain views. There are pristine rainforest streams to explore, nine kilometres of walking tracks and abundant bird life with over 160 species recorded. Guided bird watching is available. A complimentary breakfast hamper is also included. This cool tropical mountain retreat offers peace and relaxation and with its eastern outlook, guests are rewarded with fabulous moon and sun rises over the mountains. They are ideal for the romantic hideaway or the family holiday.

• • Treetop Cottage

  Day 4: Atherton Tablelands

  Spend the day enjoying the pristine wilderness of the Atherton Tablelands. Kilometres of walking tracks are onsite leading to a pristine rainforest creek, a charming waterfall and giant trees such as rose gums. The tracks vary in grade from easy to average and in duration from 40 minutes to 90 minutes. Speak to the hotel staff for excursions out to Lake Eacham, Lake Barrine, Malanda Falls, Undara Lava tubes, Milla Milla Falls, Mungalli Creek Cheese Factory, or Mount Hypipamee Crater National Park. If you would rather relax, enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you from your private Tree-Top cottage.

  Accommodation: Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*)

• Day 5: Atherton Tablelands

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Accommodation: Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*)
• • Ayers Rock
  • Dinner in Desert
  • The Desert Garden Hotel

  Day 6: Atherton Tablelands - Cairns - Ayers Rock

  You will be picked up by private car and English speaking Driver and transfer between your lodge in the Atherton Tablelands to Cairns.

  Private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel, or vice versa.

  Shared transfer from Ayers Rock airport to hotels and vice versa. Wait times may vary, but average 20 minutes.

  An unforgettable evening of beautifully prepared food under the Outback sky - the Sounds of Silence Dinner. You are escorted to a specially chosen location shortly before sundown and a lone didgeridoo echoes across the desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés. While the sun sets in a blaze of reds and oranges, and well into the starlit night, you feast on an array of the Northern Territory's culinary delights, including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads, and classic Australian desserts. Attention then turns to some of the world's best stargazing, with the assistance of the resident astronomer. As you wind down, coffee or tea are served. In winter, guests gather around a campfire to savour a special treat of hot mulled wine.

  Accommodation: Desert Gardens (4.5*)

  Desert Gardens (4.5*) is set amongst magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs, the rooms at Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel feature the unique flora of the Central Australian Desert. Shaded walkways lead to spacious poolside rooms and some of the new deluxe rooms even offer spectacular views of Uluru. Under the private veranda or courtyard of your room, experience what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. When the sun has gone down, dine at White Gums Restaurant and savour Australian native delicacies or feast on the flavours of the a la carte Arnguli Grill.

• • Camel Ride
  • Uluru Rock Formation

  Day 7: Ayers Rock

  A peaceful one hour camel ride through stunning sand dune country with the awe inspiring back drop of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Take in the cool morning air and watch as the rising sun lights Uluru and surrounding plains while skilled cameleers describe the flora and fauna. Enjoy billy tea and freshly baked beer bread after the ride. Please note the camel max weight is 95kg. Please also note children under the age of 5 are not able to participate.

  Pick up from your hotel by coach along with fellow travellers. Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre and Maruku Arts and Craft Cooperative, dedicated to interpreting Anangu culture and law. Travel to the waterhole of Mutitjulu for a guided walk, viewing ancient cave paintings and learning about the Aboriginal legends of Kuniya Tjukurpa (Python Dreaming). Join the guided Mala Walk to learn the story of the Mala, Hare Wallaby, people who once lived at Uluru. See painted caves and learn of the region’s geology and flora. As you tour the base of Uluru, visit Kantju Gorge, a waterhole and old hunting ground. Late in the day, watch the sunset over Uluru, admire the ever-changing colours of the monolith while the sun sinks below the horizon. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and canapés as the dusk deepens into night.

  Accommodation: Desert Gardens (4.5*)
• • Sydney
  • Medina Sydney Central Outside View

  Day 8: Ayers Rock - Sydney

  Shared transfer from Ayers Rock airport to hotels and vice versa. Wait times may vary, but average 20 minutes.

  Private transfer from Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa.

  Accommodation: Medina Executive Central (4*)

  Soak up the heritage-listed ambiance of Medina Executive Sydney Central (4*), the ideal location from which to take the pulse of this great city. Impeccably restored, Medina Executive Sydney Central is situated near Sydney's Central Railway Station, offering easy access both to the Sydney CBD, and to the fast new train lines to the domestic and international airports. Executive Sydney Central is surrounded by a myriad of dining, entertainment and shopping options. You are just a block away from Sydney's lively Chinatown district, where you can enjoy some of the city's finest Asian seafood restaurants before taking in a show at Sydney's leading live music and theatre venues such as the Capitol Theatre, the Sydney Entertainment Centre and Her Majesty's Theatre. And don't forget to snap up a bargain at Paddy's Market in Chinatown, Sydney's famous flea market.

• • Blue Mountains

  Day 9: Sydney

  A shared luxury 4WD tour to the Blue Mountains. Meet Australia’s unique native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park. A great photo opportunity, where you will come in close contact with Australian animals. Experience an off road Adventure as you descend a deep canyon. Enjoy a remote stop along the way in this World Heritage area, and breathe in the essence of the Australian eucalyptus while your friendly Guide explains the unique qualities of the Aussie bush. Then you visit the Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens - home to Australia’s largest collection of cool climate plants and the ‘Dinosaur Age’ Wollemi Pine. The journey continues along the scenic Bells Line Road with views over Grose Canyon, with its towering sandstone walls. The afternoon will be spent in Glenbrook National Park with a close up experience with wild Kangaroos and the many varieties of bird that inhabit this area.

  Accommodation: Medina Executive Central (4*)
• • Sydney Zoo
  • Taronga Zoo Safari Tents

  Day 10: Sydney

  You will be picked up by private car and driver and transfer between Sydney and the Taronga Zoo.

  Get up close and personal with some of the zoo's friendliest creatures this evening. Bring your camera as there are great photo opportunities!

  Accommodation: Taronga Zoo Roar & Snore

  Taronga Zoo's unique accommodation experience, Roar & Snore, has been re-launched. You can now spend the night camping out with the animals, in the comfort of purpose built safari tents, while looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The chance to preview this unforgettable experience is truly once in a lifetime opportunity. The ‘new' Roar & Snore is now a fully hosted experience which includes architecturally designed tents, a sumptuous roast feast, drinks in the main tent, up-close animal encounters and the only opportunity to camp overnight with the views of Sydney Harbour and the city on one side and lions, leopards and Meerkats on the other.

• • Koala

  Day 11: Sydney

  The Roar and Snore package offers 2 exclusive experiences today. Explore areas that the normal public does not have access to so close up! After your intimate encounters with the animals, spend the rest of your day exploring the Taronga Zoo.

  You will be picked up by private car and driver and transfer between Sydney and the Taronga Zoo.

  Accommodation: Medina Executive Central (4*)
• • Melbourne
  • Citigate Melbourne Hotel

  Day 12: Sydney - Melbourne

  Private transfer from Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa.

  Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

  Accommodation: Citigate Melbourne (4*)

  Citigate Melbourne (4*) is in a prime location on Flinders Street directly opposite Melbourne's historic railway station, Flinders Street Station. This stylish hotel is in the heart of the CBD and is close to everything Melbourne has to offer with Federation Square, Chinatown, Southgate, Rod Laver Arena and major shopping and dining venues all within easy walking distance. The hotel is also well positioned for visitors to explore the city by tram or riverboat. The hotel offers elegantly appointed guest rooms with the choice of King or Twin share bedding. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of Citigate Melbourne and offers guests a stylish atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Aria Bar is the perfect place to unwind and watch the happenings of bustling Flinders Street.

• • Penguin Parade

  Day 13: Melbourne

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  You will be picked up by mini-coach and taken southeast of the city through the rich Gippsland coastal region. Visit a boutique winery overlooking Westernport Bay hearing colourful stories about explorers, sealers and whalers who settled this region. Phillip Island is known as the wildlife island. Walk amongst the treetops at the Koala Conservation Centre to see a protected koala company. Walk with your guide in nature reserve bushland and wetlands. The walk provides the opportunity to see wallabies and a range of bird life in the wild. Penguins come ashore each evening at dusk from their ocean feeding grounds. The large penguin colony enters the beach in groups and “walk and talk” loudly as they work their way into the dunes where their burrow nests are situated. Boardwalks enable you to gain close contact with the penguins in the dune area. Enjoy a fish and chip dinner at the Jetty Restaurant in the township of Cowes at Phillip Island.

  Accommodation: Citigate Melbourne (4*)
• • Corio Bay

  Day 14: Melbourne

  You will be picked up by shared mini-coach and taken on a tour today with other travellers. As we leave the stretching suburbs, Port Phillip Bay can be seen from the top of Westgate Bridge. Enter the volcanic western plains of Victoria where European settlers forged their way as far as the Otway Ranges, establishing large sheep properties and homesteads. Head into Geelong and the picturesque waterfront overlooking Corio Bay. See the port that was the centre of trade during the famous goldrush era in the 19th century. Cross rich sheep and dairy farmland to the cool temperate rainforests of the Otway Ranges National Park. Enjoy a cafe styled lunch at Port Campbell while you breathe the fresh clear air that rises from the southern oceans. A short drive will take you to the Shipwreck Coast bringing tales of heroes and follies, as many ships have floundered along this wild coastline. View the 12 Apostles ocean rock formations from a coastal boardwalk. Visit the shipwreck site of "Loch Ard" where two survivors struggled ashore amidst the wreckage.

  Accommodation: Citigate Melbourne (4*)

• Day 15: Melbourne

  Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

  Accommodation: Depart

  Depart from Melbourne international airport - end of itinerary.

Accommodation

• Collectibles

  Australia is famous for its marsupial species that include kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and of course the cuddly koalas. These bear-like animals are found in South Eastern Australia and were given the name "koala" by Aboriginals, a word that means "no drink". The Koala obtains enough moisture from the eucalyptus leaves that it feeds on, a plant that would be indigestible to most other life forms.

• Culinary Delights

  There is much more to Australian barbeques than shrimp. Northern Territory barbeques feature indigenous fare like barramundi, kangaroo, emu, ostrich as well as chicken and lamb grilled on the barbecue with oil and seasoning. Of course an outback barbeque is never complete without billy tea at the end. This is simply tea boiled in a tin container known as a "billy".

• Historic Moment

  The Australian "Slouch" hat, or "Digger" hat, is nearly as old as the Australian fighting man. Originating in the army, it traditionally has a leather chin strap made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt, and is turned up on the side (originally perhaps to keep out of the way of a lance or rifle). It also helps stay clear of that scorching outback sun!

• • Cairns Harbour Lights Lobby

  The Sebel Harbour Lights (4.5*)

  Ideally situated on Cairns' stunning waterfront with amazing views over the marina, The Sebel Harbour Lights (4.5*) offers fully self-contained apartments with furnished balconies that make the most of the stunning views of the marina, Marlin Parade or parklands. Boasting a central location in the heart of Cairns, take advantage of easy access to the major shopping areas, restaurants and attractions of Cairns as well as first class facilities which include an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and spa pool.

  • More information
• • Rose Gums Wildnerness Retreat
  • 2 Bedroom Treehouse

  Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*)

  Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat(4*) is 230 acres of pure paradise situated just ten minutes from Lake Eacham in the Cairns Highlands. The treehouses sit in elevated rainforest surroundings looking out over Wooroonooran National Park. All luxurious pole and timber treehouses are totally private and feature large spas, cosy fireplaces and balconies with stunning mountain views. There are pristine rainforest streams to explore, nine kilometres of walking tracks and abundant bird life with over 160 species recorded. Guided bird watching is available. A complimentary breakfast hamper is also included. This cool tropical mountain retreat offers peace and relaxation and with its eastern outlook, guests are rewarded with fabulous moon and sun rises over the mountains. They are ideal for the romantic hideaway or the family holiday.

  • More information
• • The Desert Garden Hotel

  Desert Gardens (4.5*)

  Desert Gardens (4.5*) is set amongst magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs, the rooms at Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel feature the unique flora of the Central Australian Desert. Shaded walkways lead to spacious poolside rooms and some of the new deluxe rooms even offer spectacular views of Uluru. Under the private veranda or courtyard of your room, experience what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. When the sun has gone down, dine at White Gums Restaurant and savour Australian native delicacies or feast on the flavours of the a la carte Arnguli Grill.

  • More information
• • Medina Sydney Central
  • Medina Sydney Apartment

  Medina Executive Central (4*)

  Soak up the heritage-listed ambiance of Medina Executive Sydney Central (4*), the ideal location from which to take the pulse of this great city. Impeccably restored, Medina Executive Sydney Central is situated near Sydney's Central Railway Station, offering easy access both to the Sydney CBD, and to the fast new train lines to the domestic and international airports. Executive Sydney Central is surrounded by a myriad of dining, entertainment and shopping options. You are just a block away from Sydney's lively Chinatown district, where you can enjoy some of the city's finest Asian seafood restaurants before taking in a show at Sydney's leading live music and theatre venues such as the Capitol Theatre, the Sydney Entertainment Centre and Her Majesty's Theatre. And don't forget to snap up a bargain at Paddy's Market in Chinatown, Sydney's famous flea market.

  • More information
• • Taronga Zoo Safari Tents

  Taronga Zoo Roar & Snore

  Taronga Zoo's unique accommodation experience, Roar & Snore, has been re-launched. You can now spend the night camping out with the animals, in the comfort of purpose built safari tents, while looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The chance to preview this unforgettable experience is truly once in a lifetime opportunity. The ‘new' Roar & Snore is now a fully hosted experience which includes architecturally designed tents, a sumptuous roast feast, drinks in the main tent, up-close animal encounters and the only opportunity to camp overnight with the views of Sydney Harbour and the city on one side and lions, leopards and Meerkats on the other.

  • More information
• • Citigate Room
  • Citigate Melbourne Hotel

  Citigate Melbourne (4*)

  Citigate Melbourne (4*) is in a prime location on Flinders Street directly opposite Melbourne's historic railway station, Flinders Street Station. This stylish hotel is in the heart of the CBD and is close to everything Melbourne has to offer with Federation Square, Chinatown, Southgate, Rod Laver Arena and major shopping and dining venues all within easy walking distance. The hotel is also well positioned for visitors to explore the city by tram or riverboat. The hotel offers elegantly appointed guest rooms with the choice of King or Twin share bedding. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of Citigate Melbourne and offers guests a stylish atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Aria Bar is the perfect place to unwind and watch the happenings of bustling Flinders Street.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • International and Internal Flights - Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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