Colours of Australia

Welcome to Tasmania! You will meet your expert guide at Hobart airport who will be pleased to welcome you. After a long flight, we will transfer to your centrally located hotel to check in and enjoy some rest. The guide will give suggestions on what to do. Overnight stay in Hobart.

After a relaxing night, and a delicious breakfast, we commence our program with an interesting city walk where you will be introduced to the history of Tasmania and of its capital city Hobart. We will visit the most important districts of the city including Salamanca, Waterfront and Battery Point districts. We will also enjoy an afternoon tea (included) at one of Hobart’s oldest bakeries before making our way up to Mt Wellington for fantastic photo opportunities of the River Derwent, the city, and much of Southern Tasmania. At approximately 2 pm, our adventure continues as we board a boat for a 2-and-a-half-hour tour exploring the renowned waterways that influence Hobart’s lifestyle. We next will visit Australia’s oldest lighthouse, circumnavigate Betsey Island and discover the city’s rich maritime past all from the sea. Overnight stay in Hobart.

Today after breakfast we depart Hobart for Bruny Island in the South of the island. Bruny Island is a peaceful oasis where time seems to standstill. Only a short ferry ride from the coastal town of Kettering, it is a world away. We will enjoy a day of stunning scenery and indulge in quality local produce, such as freshly shucked oysters and local honey or chocolate. A special lunch is arranged at a traditional local seafood restaurant. Afterwards, we will explore Adventure Bay, where the famous Captain Cook set his feet on land and be stunned by spectacular views of roaring coastal swell, beautiful bays, and towering cliffs. The area abounds with local wildlife, including curious White Wallabies that are akin to small kangaroos. After dark, we travel to South Bruny or the Neck reserve in search of the magical Southern lights (Aurora Australis). Overnight stay in the Bruny area.

After breakfast, we depart to our accommodations for the Port Arthur Historic Site which is one of Tasmania’s most visited attractions. Set in tranquil gardens, Tasmania’s famous convict settlement site harbors a dark history that our experienced guide will bring to life. As you stroll amongst the now peaceful buildings, envisage the harsh life endured by the hapless convicts sent far from home two centuries ago. We will also view the famous geological features of the peninsula as you explore the rugged coastline and cliffs. In the afternoon, we will meet Tasmania’s most iconic animal, the Tasman Devil, at Tasmania’s Unzoo in Taranna. After dark, there will be another guided chance to head out in search of the Southern lights. Overnight stay near Port Arthur.

Today, after breakfast, it means farewell to Tasmania. On our way back to Hobart, we will enjoy a farewell lunch, including wine tasting at the table at Frogmore Creek Restaurant and winery. Later this afternoon, your local expert guide will drop you off at Hobart airport to take your short flight to Melbourne. Welcome to Melbourne! Upon arrival be transferred to your hotel. Rest of day at your leisure to settle in at the hotel and relax. If you want to start exploring, we recommend a visit of China Town and the Queen Victoria Market, all within a short walk from your hotel. Overnight in Melbourne.

Departure around 7:35 am to cross the famous Great Ocean Road, keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. If you’re lucky, you might see some kangaroos and hear the singing of beautiful birds native to Australia such as Kookaburras, King Parrots, Yellow Robins, Fairy-Wrens and more. We will visit the picturesque coastal town of Apollo Bay in southwest Victoria. On the east side of Cape Otway, Apollo Bay is a natural resort town where you can explore its rich rainforests filled with waterfalls, streams, lush vegetation and exotic wildlife. We will stop here for lunch on our own. Explore Great Otway National Park and learn about this incredible rainforest. Witness towering centuries-old eucalyptus trees, lush ancient ferns, magnificent wetlands, numerous native birds and many different species of wildlife. We visited the venerable Twelve Apostles and the gorge of Loch Ard, which was the site of a famous shipwreck. You’ll easily find out looking out over the rock-studded ocean why it’s called the Shipwreck Coast. You’ll learn about the stories of how the road was carved out of woodlands and granite rocks to connect small fishing towns, as well as early settlements and whaling. Upon returning to Melbourne, we will stop in the town of Colac for dinner on our own. Expected arrival at 8:30 pm.

Departure to Phillip Island, on the way we will visit the Moonlit Sanctuary where we will have contact with wildlife: kangaroos, koalas, wallabis, etc. The main attraction has always been the Little Penguins doing their daily parade. These little friends are the smallest of their kind in the world. They are also called “fairy penguins”. Measuring around 30 centimeters tall, Little Penguins weighed just 1 kilogram, making them the smallest species of penguin in the world. They established colonies on the coasts of Australia and New Zealand. You can also spot them in Tasmania and the Chatham Islands. These penguins are also called Blue Penguins due to the color of their plumage, indigo blue and a white stripe from chin to belly. Living in large colonies, Little Penguins have made Phillip Island one of their territories. On this Phillip Island tour, witness Little Penguins magically appear from the waves and walk back to their homes. Crossing Summerland Beach, they travel in small groups back to their dens. And this happens every day at sunset. Right after the hard day of fishing in the seas of Phillip Island to bring food to the little ones who stayed at home in the dunes. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Melbourne.

After a nice breakfast, this private program begins by meeting our local expert in your hotel lobby at 9 am to start this journey on foot. We start from Federation Square which celebrates both the uniting of six British colonies in 1901 and the Kulin Nation of the First People. On this 3-hour leisurely walking tour, we discover a city full of charm and history, dating back to aboriginal times, as well as learning of its foundations as a city that grew to be one of the most culturally diverse and constantly voted as one of the most liveable cities in the world, welcome to Melbourne! You will see Melbourne’s unique architecture on land as well as it´s take in the iconic riverside walkways. This program allows you to see and experience more of Melbourne! Naarm the indigenous name for the land. Rest of day at your leisure. We recommend a visit to NGV, the Immigration Museum, Eureka Skydeck, and other locations that your private local guide will share with you. Overnight in Melbourne.

After breakfast, we will depart central Melbourne and be transferred to the airport for our morning flight to iconic Sydney. Arrival in Sydney! After clearing baggage claim, you will be met by your personalised chauffeur who will then assist you to the vehicle and take you on an unforgettable 3-hour tour of Sydney. Founded in 1788, its recent history begins when British pioneers founded a penal colony here. And as events unfolded, from a penal colony based on aboriginal lands, people who have occupied the country for 60,000 years, it became the largest city in Oceania. It offers a synthesis of what Australia has in store for its visitors. Starting at Maroubra Beach we will work our way down the eastern coastline before stopping at our world-famous Bondi Beach for morning tea. Here you can choose to just sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of Bondi, take a stroll along the promenade or even go for a swim. You may also be lucky enough to bump into a member of the famous Bondi Rescue team. Departing Bondi, we continue on towards The Gap at Watsons Bay and the Eastern harbourside, passing through some of the most affluent areas of the Eastern Suburbs, including Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Double Bay, Paddington, Rushcutters Bay (starting point for the world-famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race) and Kings Cross. We will drive through the Botanical Gardens en route to Lady Macquarie’s Chair to take in the most picturesque view of the harbour, with the backdrop being Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It will now be time to head to your hotel, check-in and enjoy free-time for lunch. This afternoon, you will enjoy a city tour of Sydney. You will start your experience by meeting your local private expert guide in your hotel lobby at 2 pm. You will visit the iconic Opera House, showing Australia’s cultural heritage that impresses with its amazing architecture, and is very distinctive of the 20th century. Walking around the city, you will understand why Sydney is known worldwide not only for its beauty but also for its cultural diversity, history, and excellent infrastructure. We will explore the historic region of The Rocks, where the city of Sydney was born. This charming district is famous for its cobblestone streets, cafes, restaurants, craft fairs, art galleries and an unparalleled bohemian atmosphere topped off by great views over the harbor. Your friendly guide will also give you valuable tips on where to eat, tips on local transport, shopping and much more. Next, we’ll visit Darling Harbour, a modern complex where boat trips depart crisscrossing the Sydney Harbor. The interesting location is full of attractions, restaurants, and museums. You will enjoy the festive atmosphere, ending this tour on a high note! Guided return to your hotel or somewhere nearby as you wish. Rest of day at your leisure. Overnight in Sydney.

After breakfast make your way to Circular Quay by 9 am. Your private experience begins at the Sydney Harbour, at the Customs House Square across from Circular Quay where you are going to meet your local expert guide and take the ferry to Manly. Manly is one of those places that offers the best of both worlds, cosmopolitan buzz, and a relaxed vacation vibe. The Ferry ride offers a very nice experience, so you can enjoy the bay and the views of the iconic Harbour Bridge, since the ferry passes close to it. Whales, seals, and an occasional dolphin can be spotted depending on the time of the year. Next arrive in Manly Wharf, a nice harbor with stores and eateries, followed by a walk of the Corso, a promenade full of surf stores that lead directly to the impressive Manly Beach. Just after we will visit other stunning beaches along an interesting pathway like Shelly Beach and the Queenscliff beach that is usually occupied by parrots and other regional bird species. Manly is where the people of Sydney go when they want to relax so this is a try authentic experience for those wishing to see a traditional and fun side of Sydney. Afterwards, we will stop for an Australian gelato in the center of Manly and have some free time to take in more of the vibe of one of Sydney’s most relaxed neighborhoods. When it is time, we will say goodbye to our local guide at the Manly Wharf who will help you back on to the ferry for an enjoyable ride back into the city. Rest of the day at our leisure. Recommended can remain in Manly to enjoy the lifestyle or return to the city centre for a visit to the Paddy Market, or afternoon harbour boat tour. Overnight in Sydney.

Today, we venture inland to enjoy the fabled Blue Mountains, its wildlife, and return mini cruise. Our adventure to the heart of the Blue Mountains starts by enjoying a visit to see koalas and kangaroos at the Featherdale Wildlife Park, before going to the top of the mountains themselves to enjoy a dramatic view of the Three Sisters rocks from Echo Point. After lunch on your own, we head to Scenic World to ride the Cableway, Skyway and Railway for unbeatable aerial views of the Jamison Valley and Katoomba Falls. Our adventure finishes with a leisurely cruise along the Parramatta River to Sydney’s Darling Harbour or Circular Quay. Have the opportunity to dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Bookings recommended which we can assist with. Overnight in Sydney.

After breakfast, we transfer over to the airport for our flight to tropical Cairns. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our centrally located hotel and enjoy some free time for lunch. For the rest of the day, you can settle into laid back Cairns. Some of your recommendations include: Enjoy lunch on the waterfront with an abundance of seafood (not ncluded). If you’re looking for a free activity in Cairns, set your sights on the 38-hectare tropical Cairns Botanic Gardens, five minutes from the Cairns central district. Established in 1886, the tropical plants here are as well established as they are rare. The gardens are home to one of only two Amorphophallus Titanums found in Australia. Enter the Cairns Aquarium, which connects you with 16,000 species of animals across 10 different ecosystems and 71 different exhibits - while also owning the bragging rights as the only aquarium in the world to showcase wildlife from two World Heritage-listed sites. Not only can you expect the regular behind-glass aquarium style experience, at Cairns Aquarium you can also go diving with the sharks (no experience required) or take a Marine Life Encounters tour which involves a personal guide through the aquarium including back of house and newly created turtle hospital. Overnight in Cairns.

After an early breakfast, we transfer over to the Ocean Free sailing boat for a trip to Green Island, a fully developed coral island situated only 26 kilometers (16 miles) from Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef. Its protected waters are the perfect location to discover the reef, snorkeling and scuba diving, and appreciating the amazing sea life found only here. On our special day, Ocean Free sails you leisurely to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive mooring on the eastern lee of Green Island, offering excellent coral coverage and vibrant marine life. Here you can snorkel directly off the boat or you may even want to try your first ever scuba dive. For certified divers, you’ll enjoy being guided by our qualified instructors on one of the best kept secrets of the Great Barrier Reef. Rest of day at Leisure to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Overnight in Cairns.

Today is another grand day in the tropics. We will experience Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest. Our journey leads us to explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and discover the history of this secluded ancient area. We will have personal driver guides to explore Mossman Gorge, cruise along the Daintree River, enjoy lunch in the Aussie rainforest, walk on the world-renowned Cape Tribulation beach, and refresh ourselves with a local fruit ice cream in the afternoon. Upon return to Cairns, the rest of day is at your leisure. Overnight in Cairns.

After breakfast, the adventure continues. We transfer over to the airport for your flight home or extend with one of our post tours.