Aussie Explorer (Reverse)

Aussie Explorer (Reverse)

If Australian tours could talk, this mammoth one would ask the others 'Who's your daddy?' Adventure, luxury, excitement and enlightenment, make these perfectly-planned 24 days a must for anyone committed to experiencing the native peoples, historic places and modern architectural marvels that make Australia special. Much like the natural phenomenon that is Ayers Rock, a wonder of the world, you'll feel large and in charge, enabled by surplus fun and interesting, epic-scale activities.



Print Itinerary Itinerary & Map

  1. Day Icon-day1 Icon-day2 Depart for Australia

    We fly over the international date line on our way to Sydney, in Australia.
  2. Day Icon-day3 Arrive Darwin

    Check into your Darwin Quality Frontier Hotel after 2:00pm, the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore. Hotel
  3. Day Icon-day4 Darwin and Litchfield National Park

    Welcome to the Northern Territory - CONTIKI STYLE!!! What a way to start with our first day at Litchfield National Park. It is 650 square kilometres (255 square miles) of top end treasure. It encloses some spectacular scenery including an ancient sandstone plateau and picturesque Florence Falls where you will have the opportunity for a swim. Then it's back to Darwin as we discover the Darwin nightlife! Hotel
  4. Day Icon-day5 Darwin to Kakadu National Park

    Today you'll discover the amazing history of Darwin with a visit to the Northern Territory Museum and a driving tour of the city, before heading out to the world famous Kakadu National Park. Lodge (B,D)
  5. Day Icon-day6 Kakadu National Park

    Rise early and you have the chance to see the wonders of Kakadu from the air. This scenic flight will leave you breathless and it's not the altitude. You really will understand why this is a world heritage region. Then on to Nourlangie Rock, famous for its Aboriginal art. View the wetlands and spend the afternoon on a wildlife cruise. Lodge (B)
  6. Day Icon-day7 Kakadu National Park to Katherine

    You will be able to appreciate the vast changes in scenery today as we head south out of Kakadu. We'll stop for a swim at either Gumlom or Edith Falls. Then get ready to experience the enormity of Nitmiluk National Park and the Katherine River Gorge System with an optional gorge cruise, bush walk or canoe trip. Hotel (B)
  7. Day Icon-day8 Katherine to Tennant Creek

    Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal waters of Mataranka Thermal Pools or take a look at the Elsey Homestead. Onwards to one of the Territory's oldest watering holes for lunch before arriving in the true outback town of Tennant Creek. Hotel (B,D)
  8. Day Icon-day9 Tennant Creek to Alice Springs

    Before we leave the site of Australia's last gold rush all nuggets that have been found will quickly be passed onto the Contiki crew. It's then on to the Devils Marbles before heading to Alice Springs for a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park. Hotel (B,D)
  9. Day Icon-day10 Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock)

    An opportunity this morning to join an Aboriginal Bush Tucker tour. We then cross the oldest river in the world, the Finke River, before turning onto the Lassiter Highway. Continuing past amazing Mt Connor, we reach the modern Yulara Resort, our accommodation for the next two nights. Watch the sun set and rise over Uluru and explore this world-famous monolith. Lodge (B)
  10. Day Icon-day11 Uluru

    Uluru National Park and the famous 'big rock' await. We'll watch the amazing warm hues of an Uluru sunrise, followed by a visit to the excellent Cultural Center housing a display of information on Aboriginal history and culture. Then why not jump on the back of a Harley Davidson motorcycle to take in more of the Spinifex plains? Maybe take a flight over the area or challenge the vertical and climb Uluru? Later time for a swim and to enjoy a glass of bubbly to toast the Uluru sunset. Lodge (B)
  11. Day Icon-day12 Uluru to Kings Creek Station

    A last look at Uluru before we drive to the mysterious rock formations known as Kata Tjuta or the Olgas. Hike through the Valley of the Winds or Olga Gorge. This afternoon we're off to Kings Creek Station adjacent to Watarrka National Park. A chance to explore this working cattle and camel station by quad bikes. Enjoy food cooked in true outback style, before rolling out your sleeping swag under a blanket of brilliant stars. Outback bush camp (B,D)
  12. Day Icon-day13 Kings Creek Station to Alice Springs

    Up early to take in the stunning sights as we wander along the ridge of Kings Canyon and discover the Garden of Eden and the Lost City. Then onwards to Alice Springs. Tonight why not enjoy a 'drovers blowout' dinner? Try outback delicacies like crocodile and emu. Hotel (B)
  13. Day Icon-day14 Alice Springs to Cairns

    This morning we have sightseeing of Alice Springs, taking in ANZAC Hill and seeing the Old Alice Springs Telegraph Station. Later you'll board your flight to Cairns to begin your East Coast adventure. Resort
  14. Day Icon-day15 Icon-day16 Cairns

    For the adventurous a chance to do some white water rafting on the rapids of the Tully River, or take the opportunity to visit the famous Outer Barrier Reef aboard a high-speed catamaran. Why not scuba dive amidst amazingly colourful tropical fish? Or if you prefer, maybe spend the days at leisure doing some shopping in town. In the evening we'll check out more tropical wildlife at one of Cairns' nightclubs! Resort
  15. Day Icon-day17 Cairns to Whitsundays

    We'll leave this morning to travel South to Townsville to explore the scenic lookout of Castle Hill. This evening we'll board our launch at Shute Harbour and make the short journey to Long Island - one of the jewels of the Whitsundays. Resort (B,D)
  16. Day Icon-day18 Whitsundays

    Time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and great amenities of Long Island. Feeling energetic, why not go bushwalking, play tennis or beach volleyball, take to the water with a snorkel or a jet ski? Want to relax? Then unwind on the palm-lined beach, have a massage, or sip cocktails on the verandah as you watch another perfect sunset. Resort
  17. Day Icon-day19 Whitsundays to Capricorn Coast

    From Airlie Beach we'll visit Mackay - Australia's sugar capital. This evening why not come face to fang with huge estuarine crocodiles at the Koorana Crocodile Farm? Hotel (B)
  18. Day Icon-day20 Capricorn Coast to Fraser Island

    This morning as we leave Rockhampton we will cross the Tropic of Capricorn before hooking up with our launch to Fraser Island. Eco Lodge (B,D)
  19. Day Icon-day21 Fraser Island

    Now you're on the largest sand island in the world! What to do? Here are a few clues. Why not take a 4-wheel drive bus tour through the rainforests, a guided bushwalk or a swim in the fresh water lakes? With this many options there's no chance of going troppo! Eco Lodge
  20. Day Icon-day22 Fraser Island to Country Homestead

    Today we travel South along the coast to Noosa Heads with its stunning beaches and great shopping. From there we'll head along the fertile farming lands of the Darling Downs to the edge of Queensland's Outback to enjoy a good ol' Aussie 'knees up' tonight at our Country Homestead. Country Homestead (B,D)
  21. Day Icon-day23 Country Homestead to Surfers Paradise

    From the fertile farming lands of the Darling Downs we'll take in the sights and sounds of Brisbane before arriving in Surfers Paradise. After dinner, try your luck at Jupiter's Casino! Hotel (B)
  22. Day Icon-day24 Surfers Paradise

    So much to do in the name of leisure. Here goes! Relax on 42km (26miles) of white sand beaches, or if you're feeling adventurous - why not try a tandem skydive or a Harley Davidson ride. All are available in Australia's biggest playground. Hotel
  23. Day Icon-day25 Surfers Paradise to Coffs Harbour

    This morning we'll cross the Queensland border into New South Wales. We'll stop at Cape Byron, Australia's most easterly point then on to trendy Byron Bay where you can shop or swim. Tonight will be our last night together in our accommodation at Coffs Harbour! Resort (B)
  24. Day Icon-day26 Coffs Harbour to Sydney

    We head south along the 'holiday coast' and across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. We'll then make a photostop taking in the harbour and Opera House. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Sydney. (B)
  25. Day Icon-day27 Sydney

    Say a final farewell to your new friends as your trip ends this morning.

Highlights

All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!

Included
  • Darwin: City sightseeing tour; See the harbour & East Point Military Reserve; Visit the Darwin Museum to see the Cyclone Tracy display
  • Litchfield National Park: See the termite mounds; See the rainforests & sandstone formations; Enjoy a swim at Florence Falls
  • Kakadu National Park: Stay in Kakadu National Park; Hike to see the Aboriginal rock art; Visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre; Cruise to see crocodiles & native bird life
  • Katherine: Visit Katherine Gorge & see the sheer rock walls and wildlife
  • Mataranka: Swim in the thermal pools; Visit Elsey, the historic "We of the Never Never" homestead
  • Daly Waters: Visit the famous Outback pub
  • Tennant Creek: Visit the site of Australia's last gold rush
  • Devil's Marbles: Visit the rock formation
  • Wycliffe Well: Visit the town known for its UFO sightings
  • Ti Tree: Visit the Red Sands Art Gallery to see Aboriginal art & didgeridoos
  • Erldunda & Mt. Ebenezer: Visit a traditional Outback Roadhouse; Spot kangaroos in their natural habitat; See the unusually shaped Mt. Connor
  • Uluru: Uluru National Park entrance fee; Visit Uluru at sunset and sunrise; Hike the base of Uluru; Visit the Uluru Cultural Centre; Relax in the Yularu Resort; Visit Kata Tjuta (The Olga's) & hike the Valley of the Winds
  • Kings Creek Station: Visit the cattle & camel station; Enjoy an evening bush camp; See the desert night sky & stars
  • Kings Canyon: Visit Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park; Hike along the canyon ridge; Visit the 'Garden of Eden' waterhole and the 'Lost City'
  • Alice Springs: City sightseeing tour; Visit ANZAC Hill lookout; Visit Alice Springs Desert Park to see the unique Outback animals; Visit the West MacDonnell National Park; See Alice Springs Telegraph Station; Flight from Alice Springs to Cairns
  • Simpson's Gap: Visit the important Aboriginal cultural site, home to the blackfooted wallaby
  • Cairns: City sightseeing tour
  • Tully: Cross the Tully River, home to Australia's best white water rafting
  • Townsville: City sightseeing tour
  • Airlie Beach: Visit the vibrant seaside town
  • Whitsundays: Transfer boat to Long Island; Stay on Long Island & enjoy all the resort facilities; See native birdlife & wallabies
  • Mackay: Visit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry
  • Capricorn Coast: Visit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn; Rockhampton sightseeing tour
  • Fraser Island: Stay on this World Heritage listed island; Stay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort facilities
  • Noosa: Visit the picturesque seaside town & beach
  • Country Homestead: Stay at a traditional Country Homestead; Enjoy a bush dance evening; See the farm animals & kangaroos
  • Brisbane: City sightseeing tour; See the Brisbane River & Southbank; See an Opal demonstration
  • Surfers Paradise: Visit Jupiter's Casino; Visit the 'Gold Coast' beaches
  • Currumbin: Visit the wildlife sanctuary, cuddle a koala and see native Australian animals including kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, dingoes & Tasmanian devils
  • Byron Bay: Visit Cape Byron, Australia's most eastern point
  • Coffs Harbour: See the Big Banana & banana plantations
  • Hunter Valley: See the vineyards & enjoy a wine tasting
  • Sydney: See the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge; Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour; See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms
Accommodations
  • 25 nights in special Contiki accommodation based on twin share
  • Breakfasts (B) and Dinners (D) – as per itinerary
  • Flight Alice Springs to Cairns
Contiki Difference
  • Free Contiki ‘Travellers Guide’ information book * Free Contiki document wallet

Optional Excursions

Darwin

Group photograph (A$12)
A great souvenir of your trip and an excellent way to remember the new friends you have made on tour.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu Scenic Flight (From A$115)
The best way to appreciate the features of the Arnhem escarpment and the environment that is so special for the Northern Territory Aboriginals is by air. Fly over the vast contrasting landscape of this inspiring World Heritage National Park and keep your eyes open for crocodiles and wild horses.

Katherine

Katherine Gorge Cruise (A$50)
What better way to experience the beauty of Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge than by a cruise? Travel past the sheer walls carved from centuries of erosion. See freshwater crocodiles basking in the sun and hear the tales of the gorge from a local expert guide.

Alice Springs

Aboriginal Dreamtime Bushtucker Tour (A$58)
Aboriginal people introduce you to their lifestyle and beliefs. The men will demonstrate the use of their hunting weapons and you'll be tempted by a variety of bush foods prepared by the women.
Overlanders Steakhouse 'Drovers Blowout' Meal (A$55)
Choose from what must be considered the world's most unique banquet. Perhaps kangaroo, crocodile, or camel takes your fancy, or maybe buffalo or emu? They are all available for you to try. After dinner join in the fun and entertainment.
Group Photograph (A$15)
Smile please! A group photograph is a great souvenir of your Outback tour. Not only does this photograph capture you and your tour friends, but also the superb colours and landforms that are typical of Central Australia.
Hot Air Ballooning (A$245)
Put your alarm on for an early start! This adventure begins at dawn and with your help the balloon is filled and made ready for lift off! The next half hour is peacefully spent mid-air, gazing at the unique desert colours that make up the MacDonnell Range. Price includes insurance levy.

Kings Canyon

Quad Bike Excursion (A$78)
Explore Kings Creek Station on a 4-wheeled 'Quad bike'. A fun way to go 'Out Back'.
Scenic Helicopter Flight (From A$65)
Appreciate the scale and grandeur of this rugged Canyon from the air. The best way to fly!
Camel Ride (A$50)
Travel the Outback the way the early explorers did! Ride with a friend on one of these magnificent desert beasts as they wander through this outback station.

Uluru

Uluru & the Olgas Scenic Flights (From A$80)
Only in the air is it possible to realise the beauty and spectacular shape of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the huge rock formations that make up Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Fixed-wing or helicopter flights provide passengers with a fascinating commentary plus the best photo opportunities of these two Australian icons.
Uluru Champagne Sunset (A$10)
See the amazing colors of the Outback at sunset, and raise a toast to your fellow travellers! What better place in the world to enjoy the sunset.
Harley Davidson Motorcycle Tour (From A$38)
Take a 'wild' ride on the back of a famed Harley Davidson motorcycle around the base of Uluru. A classic ride on an iconic vehicle.

Cairns

Scuba Diving (in addition to Outer Barrier Reef Cruise) (From A$70)
Take the opportunity of a lifetime to try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. You will be assisted with all equipment and training. Certified dives, and introductory dives for beginners, are available. Anyone is able to participate (subject to medical conditions). Diving is fun and easy - don't miss out!
Tandem Sky-Diving (From A$260)
Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory levy.
Outer Barrier Reef Cruise (From A$150)
A full day out to the Great Barrier Reef aboard a luxury high-speed catamaran. Included in your day is snorkelling (all equipment provided), coral viewing by semi-submersible and underwater observatory, marine biologist presentation, plus a smorgasbord lunch with seafood and morning and afternoon teas. Includes Environmental Charge.
AJ Hackett Bungy Jump (A$125 (Bungy); A$69 (Minjin))
Face your fears as you jump from the famous AJ Hackett Bungy Tower! With panoramic views out to the Great Barrier Reef it's a memorable experience. Or tackle the "Minjin" swing through the rainforest at speeds up to 100kph. Note: Prices do not include the A$5 Personal Insurance Levy - paid separately. www.AJHackett.com
Guided Horse & Quad Bike Tours (Horse Riding: A$105; Quad Bikes: A$125)
Experience the Aussie bush and rainforest as you meander on horseback or charge by All-Terrain Vehicle along nature trails. See the awesome views of the gorgeous coastline. For beginners or the more experienced. Prices include Insurance Levy.
Hot Air Ballooning (A$180)
Put your alarm on for an early start! This adventure begins at dawn and with your help, the balloon is filled and made ready for lift off! The next half hour is peacefully spent in mid-air, gazing at the ancient landscape of the Atherton Tablelands, formed by extinct volcanic activity. Once you have landed, enjoy breakfast and a glass or two of cold champagne. Price includes insurance & aviation levies.
White Water Rafting (From A$160)
Enjoy over 4 hours of white water rafting on the Tully River. Excitement builds as you tackle world-famous rapids that take you through spectacular rainforest. A delicious lunch on the riverbank is followed by more first-class rafting. Includes Insurance & Park levies.

Whitsundays

Outer Barrier Reef Cruise (A$185)
Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef aboard an air conditioned, high speed catamaran. On the journey to the Reef, enjoy complimentary tea and coffee while being shown the art of snorkelling and watching educational reef videos. Once on the Reef, take a tour in a glass-bottomed boat and semi-submersible, but the very best way to experience the Reef is to get amongst it by swimming and snorkelling. If you wish, try an optional scuba dive, with instruction and equipment provided and to top off a fantastic day, a sumptuous buffet lunch is provided. Includes Environmental Charge.
Whitsunday Day Sail (A$130)
Sailing the Whitsundays is a must for all visitors. This is an outstanding opportunity to see the Whitsunday Passage in all it's glory. Sail past tropical islands on your way to the pristine water and white sand of Whitehaven Beach (weather dependent), regarded as one of the top ten beaches in the world. Enjoy lunch before returning late afternoon. Price includes an Environmental Management Charge.

Fraser Island

Whale Watching (Aug-Oct only) (A$95)
Take a half-day cruise on Hervey Bay and view the southern humpback whales returning south to Antarctica after calving in the northern waters. Whale watching boats cruise amongst the huge mammals allowing you to view from close range while they rest and play. Available from August to October only.
Fraser Island 4-Wheel Drive Adventures (Full Day A$145, Half Day A$80)
The best way to explore the world's largest sand island is by 4-wheel drive vehicle. You have the choice of either a half or full day 4WD bus excursion, escorted by an expert local guide who will take you to some of the best spots on the island, such as stunning Lake McKenzie, Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek. The full day tour includes lunch.

Surfers Paradise

Sea Kayaking (A$70)
Enjoy an expert guided sea-kayak safari, exploring the islands of the Gold Coast. This easy paddle on the water is complemented by snorkeling, bushwalking and marine life spotting. Also enjoy morning or afternoon tea on a secluded beach.
Tandem Sky-Diving (From A$260)
Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory levy.
Tiger Moth Biplane Flight (A$200)
Fly in a vintage Tiger Moth bi-plane and experience the freedom of the open cockpit with the sound of the wind in the wires. The flight is over scenic Surfers Paradise. And for a little extra you can take the acrobatic ride and 'loop the loop'.
Mountain Trek 4-Wheel Drive (Full Day A$120, Half Day A$80)
A full or half-day tour of the World Heritage declared Lamington and Mount Tambourine National Parks by 4-Wheel Drive. Explore part of the largest preserved sub-tropical rainforest in Australia with it's unique vegetation, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. The full day tour includes lunch.
Learn to Surf (A$42)
Hit the waves on one of Australia's famous surf beaches. First learn the basics, then hit the water, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!
Bushwacker Eco Rainforest Tour (A$110)
Rainforest Discovery Bushwalk - Discover the unique ecosystem of the World Heritage listed Springbrook National Park with an expert guide. Waterfalls and native fauna are the highlights in this precious region. Lunch, snacks and National Park entry fees included.
Dracula's Cabaret Restaurant (From A$70)
Jump aboard Dracula's ghost train and get your fangs into a 'to-die-for' 3-course meal. Enjoy a fast moving comedy show that features stunning contemporary rock productions, outrageous puppets, mad skits and Gothic flair.
Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rides (From A$48)
Climb aboard a Harley Davidson and escape into the Gold Coast hinterland, for a look at this stunningly beautiful untouched paradise. A maze of natural lush bushland with breathtaking views of the coast awaits you. A truly classic ride.

Coffs Harbour

Learn to Surf (A$50)
Hit the waves at our secluded surf spot! First learn the basics, before trying your hand in the waves, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!

Shoal Bay

Sandboard and Dune Tour (A$45)
Enjoy a guided 4WD tour of one the most unique beaches in Australia. View historical sights and the 'Tin City' fishing village, before trying your hand at high speed sandboarding down the enormous dunes!
Dolphin Cruise (A$21)
Cruise the harbour of Port Stephens in search of some of the resident bottlenose dolphins. You can even get a closer view with a swim in the boom net off the boat!

Sydney

Oz Jet Boat (A$55)
Blast off from Circular Quay and see many of the famous sights of Sydney on a powerful jet boat! Get the wind in your hair and feel the adrenalin pump in this 30 minute thrill ride around the Harbour!
Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb (From A$179)
Experience the awesome thrill of seeing magnificent Sydney from the top of it's most famous landmark! This guided tour on Sydney Harbour Bridge, including a walk on top of the famous arch, is not to be missed.
Group Photograph (A$15)
Our group photo is taken from Mrs Macquarie's Point, with two of the world's best known landmarks in the background - the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It makes a great holiday souvenir and an excellent way to remember your fellow travellers.
AAT Day Tours (From A$59)
Day trips to the Blue Mountains, the Hunter Valley vineyards or Australia's capital city Canberra are available through AAT Kings or call 02 9700 0133 when in Sydney to organise)