3 Day Great Ocean Road

Tour operated by Echidna Walkabout

Absorb this dramatic coastline on a fully-inclusive small group journey. The Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is one of the word’s most scenic coastal drives. See and learn about wildlife in their natural environment with an experienced Wildlife Guide. Spend each night of the tour in a new boutique accommodation, all situated in iconic locations. Enjoy one evening of your tour dining as guests of the owners on a secluded farm overlooking the ocean.

Join your Wildlife Guide to find wild Koalas, Kangaroos, Echidnas and birds – both of the sea and the land – in their natural habitats. Walk along the beach and feel the waves of the mighty Southern Ocean. Photograph wildflowers in species-rich heathlands. Let yourself be driven along a hidden river as it opens up into a wonderland of lakes and wetlands. View the plains from the top of an extinct volcano.

With 20 years of experience in this region, your tour company can show you the highlights and the hidden secrets of this magnificent area.

3 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Day 1: Wildlife of the Western Plains (Koalas and Kangaroos in the wild!)

Stroll through a national park looking for wild koalas, cockatoos and kookaburras. Your Wildlife Guide and Koala Researcher will explain the behavior and individuality of each of the Koalas you meet. Help create habitat for a wild koala by joining the “Make a Home for Clancy” conservation project. Walk quietly up to a wild mob of Kangaroos on the plains and in open Bushland. They are thrilling animals to watch. Their natural instinct is to flee humans, but with care we often get close enough to observe their complex social life. You may also find parrots, fairy-wrens, emus, honeyeaters, wallabies and reptiles. Your Wildlife Guide will help you understand them. A substantial picnic lunch is included.

Accommodation tonight is at a 4.5 star boutique property in the tiny outback town of Little River. Dinner is at the local Pub – a real Aussie experience! 

Day 2: The Great Ocean Road and The Twelve Apostles

See some of the world’s most spectacular coastal scenery. The tour follows the Great Ocean Road to the surging surf coast, and you will walk in the magnificent rainforests of the Otway National Park. Your Wildlife Guide will explain the formation of these mighty forests. Travel through Port Campbell National Park, looking out for echidnas, wallabies, lizards and colorful birds, which make their home in the coastal heathlands. Linger a while to take in some of nature’s handiwork at the Twelve Apostles and the Loch Ard Gorge. Hear stories about the terrible shipwrecks of the past.

Dinner and accommodation tonight are at our 4.5 star B&B near Loch Ard Gorge/Port Campbell.

Day 3: The Expanse of the Western Plains – Volcanoes and Lakes in a Great Savannah

This morning take one last look at the coast in the dramatic morning light before returning to Melbourne across the vast grasslands of the Western Plains. Created by intense volcanic activity over the past 2 million years, the 7000 volcanoes of the Western Plains are now extinct but the resultant savannah is pasture to a rich wool growing area – a wonderful example of Australia’s great range lands. Stop en route to drive to the top of an extinct volcano with spectacular views across the plains. From the summit see some of the hundreds of volcanic lakes scattered across the plains. Later pass Lake Corangamite, the largest permanent lake in Australia, often covered with prolific birdlife.  Return to Melbourne in the late afternoon.

3 Day Great Ocean Road Accommodation

Spend the first night of this tour at a 4.5 star boutique property in the tiny outback town of Little River. Dinner is at the local Pub – a real Aussie experience! The second night is at a 4.5 star bed and breakfast near Loch Ard Gorge/Port Campbell.

6 Day Wild Top End

Tour operated by Echidna Walkabout

Australia’s tropical outback, known as The Top End, is a wild land where Brolgas fly across the sunset, huge crocodiles laze on riverbanks and sandstone shimmers with the world’s oldest art. Feel the timeless peace of a landscape full of animals and very few people while you wake to the manic calls of flying-foxes and cockatoos. Look out across a billabong filled with water-lilies and walk on rocks created 600 million years ago.

Wild Top End is a special journey created for curious adventurers who love wild places and wild creatures. Get to know Kakadu and Mary River National Parks including some of the lesser-known walks and rock art sites. Learn about Top End wildlife, and help protect them.

6 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu/Jabiru via Fogg Dam and Mamukala Wetlands

After an early pick up from your Darwin accommodation the tour will head eastwards into the tropical outback.  On the way the tour will stop at a number of beautiful locations including famous Fogg Dam (part of the Adelaide River floodplain) where you will be able to walk into a monsoon forest and view some fantastic birdlife of the Northern Territory. Moving on, cross a number of the huge rivers that drain the tropical wilderness including the mighty Mary River where the tour will stop for lunch – here you may see the first crocodile of the trip. Enter Kakadu National Park and stop at Mamukala Wetland. Take a walk here to get your first taste of the wonders of Kakadu. End the day in the small town of Jabiru and move into our accommodation.

Potential wildlife sightings today: Fogg Dam and Mamukala Wetlands are famed for myriad species of birdlife which can include – Little Kingfisher, Brolga Crane, Glossy Ibis, Magpie Goose, Black-necked Stork (Jabiru), finches, herons, raptors and honeyeaters. You may see crocodiles, pythons and lizards. Vegetation varies from savannah woodlands to monsoon rainforest and wetlands.

Day 2: Nourlangie Kakadu – Aboriginal Heritage, black kangaroos, red winged parrots, sunset at Nawurlandja

The Nourlangie region will be the tour’s first access to the magnificent Arnhem Land escarpment and its unique wildlife.  Ancient sandstone ranges rise directly out of the Kakadu floodplains in a landscape that epitomizes the Dreamtime in Australia. The tour will visit a number of places in this region including the Nanguluwur Rock Art site, Anbangbang Billabong and Nourlangie Rock Art site. All the names in Kakadu rise from Aboriginal languages. You will begin to feel the incredible power of this landscape.

After a picnic lunch head back to Anbinik for a siesta (or a swim in the pool) during the heat of the afternoon before heading back out to the bush to watch the sunset over the Kakadu escarpment from Nawurlandja lookout. Twilight often heralds the flight of tens of thousands of fruit bats winging their way silently through the tropical dusk – an incredible sight. Return to Jabiru for dinner.

Potential wildlife sightings today: the walk to Nanguluwur early this morning can yield an incredible array of bush birds ranging from tiny finches to the large Red-tailed Black Cockatoo. Rare Chestnut-quilled Rock Pigeons may come to drink at a small spring near the rock art site and you may see Partridge Pigeons and Red-winged Parrots.  At Nourlangie you may see Emerald Doves and sometimes Sandsone Shrike-thrush.  A highlight of this locaton may be the sighting of Black Wallaroos, a localised mid-size kangaroo unique to this region. Anbangbang Billabong is host to a myriad of waterbirds, many species of water lilies and Estuarine Crocodiles. The fruit bat fly-out over Nawurlandja in the evening has to be seen to be believed.

Day 3: Tropical Rivers: Morning at Ubirr – East Alligator River. Afternoon at Iligadjarr Wetlands – South Alligator River

Ubirr is possibly the most beautiful place in Kakadu with some of the most compelling wilderness landscapes on earth. Nearby the tidal section of the East Alligator River bounds the vast Aboriginal lands of Arnhem Land – to go any further requires special permission. But on the Kakadu side there is a wide variety of activities to choose from including gentle walks near the river and views of elaborate Aboriginal Rock Art sites or a climb to the top of Ubirr Rock with its stunning views across Kakadu. Also take the Bardedjilidji Sandstone walk, which takes you deep into some of Kakadu’s most remarkable geological formations where you will learn how the Kakadu Escarpment was formed millions of years ago. During the heat of the day return to Jabiru followed by a rest then a refreshing swim in the pool before heading back out in the afternoon to the nearby Iligadjarr Wetlands for a walk in a tropical savannah woodland beside the freshwater floodplain of the South Alligator River.

Potential wildlife sightings today:  Keep an eye out for the Short-eared Rock-wallaby and the Black Wallaroo. Estuarine Crocodiles are common in the East Alligator River and surrounding billabongs. Some special birds are the Blue-winged Kookaburra, Brolga, Pheasant Coucal and Peaceful Dove. At the Iligadjarr Wetlands see water birds and raptors, Rainbow Bee-eaters, Jabiru Storks (Black-necked storks) and Brolga Cranes.  You may see crocodiles (from a safe distance). This walk can be one of the wildlife highlights of our Kakadu trip.

Day 4: Into the vast Mary River Catchment – Jabiru to Point Stewart Wilderness Lodge

Today the tour backtracks westward out of Kakadu to Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge deep inside Mary River National Park.  Keep an eye out for Dingoes and the elusive Antilopine Kangaroo. Finish up at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge, check in, cool off in the pool, then take a peaceful walk through Jimmy Creek rainforest right beside the Lodge. Here you’ll see the huge nesting mounds of Scrub Fowl – a bird the size of a chicken that builds nests up to 3 metres high! The grounds of the Lodge abound with the beautiful little Agile Wallaby. Cockatoos and parrots of various species are plentiful. Overnight at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge (there is a swimming pool at the lodge and a saloon bar). In the afternoon you will experience some of the ultimate magic of the Top End with a special driving and walking tour beside two magnificent billabongs deep in the bush on the vast Opium Creek private reserve.

Potential wildlife sightings today: Agile wallabies, Antilopine Kangaroos, Dingoes, Australian Bustard and Brolgas . The Rose-crowned Fruit-dove is often heard and occassionally seen in the monsoon forest and the Pied Imperial-pigeon often bursts out of the forests canopies. Hundreds – and sometimes thousands – of Little Corellas fill the trees during the heat of the day and come down to feed and drink in the evening. One of the most unusual and spectacular birds in this area is Channel-billed cuckoo.

Day 5: Crocodiles in the Wild and a wetland wilderness – Mary River National Park

The Mary River is famous for its abundant wildlife including some of the largest crocodiles in the world. These tough reptiles have outlived the dinosaurs. The Freshwater Crocodile is reclusive and will usually flee from humans. On the other hand the Estuarine (Saltwater) Crocodile can be an unpredictable and dangerous creature. This morning  see crocodiles in their natural environment as you travel in a specially constructed boat to view them – and lots of other wildlife – on the Mary River.  You’ll also see an unbelievable variety of birds including White-bellied Sea Eagles – the Mary River is famed for its abundance of this raptor, which is often seen nesting beside the waterways. Lunch will be a picnic on high land overlooking the vast Mary River catchment. Late today you will head as far north as you can go to where the mighty Mary River becomes a vast floodplain 15 kilometres from the sea. In this remote location – surrounded by wildlife of all kinds – enjoy your final sunset looking out over the waters of the Mary River. Huge Saltwater crocodiles often swim lazily (and safely) nearby. As the night rises head back to the Lodge for dinner.

Potential wildlife sightings today: The Mary River is home to just about every tropical bird in Australia. Some specials are: finches of many types including the increasingly rare Gouldian Finch, numerous raptors including the Black-breasted Buzzard, Rufous and Barking Owls, White-bellied Sea-Eagles, Brahminy Kites, Falcons (Hobby, Brown, Black and Kestrel). Birds of the waterways include: Little and Azure Kingfisher, Black Bittern, all the egrets, Glossy Ibis, Jabiru Stork, Brolga and much much more. The Mary is one of the prime places on earth to see crocodiles of two species plus youmay see turtles, fish and other water species.

Day 6: The Wonders of Bird Billabong – Point Stuart to Darwin

Today after an early breakfast head out into the bush before sunrise for your last wildlife walk at Bird Billabong in the Mary River National Park. Thousands of birds move to this billabong as the surrounding country dries after the monsoon season. The surrounding savannah is home to hundreds of wallabies that appear at every turn of the walking track. Raptors regularly visit in search of prey. This is one of the wildlife highlights of the Top End. After a relaxing morning walk you will depart to Darwin having lunch on en-route. You will be dropped at your accommodation.

Potential wildlife sightings today: Bird Billabong often contains huge numbers of whistling ducks (both Plumed and Wandering), Spoonbills, Ibis, Magpie Geese (and Pygmy Geese) amongst may others.  Great Bowerbirds build their bowers in the nearby grasslands and are often seen and heard around the billabong. Near the granite range you might see the elusive Black-tailed Treecreeper and the Southern Boobook owl. A variety of finches are also seen in the grasslands.

6 Day Wild Top End Accommodation

The first three nights of this journey will be spent in the small town of Jabiru. Relax in Anbinik Jabiru’s wonderful Bush Bungalows (see image). Enjoy this lush tropical setting with a beautiful swimming pool and easy access to the Jabiru town center.

The remaining two nights will be spent at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge. Located in the heart of the beautiful Mary River Wetlands, this comfortable lodge is the ideal base from which to explore the wilderness of Australia’s Top End.

4 Day Outback to the Sea

Tour operated by Gawler Ranges

Glamp (glamorously camp!) your way across South Australia in luxury safari tents on a 4 day / 3 night tour. This small group tour will introduce you to the diverse wildlife and birdlife of the region. Visit the spectacular Lake Gairdner with its glistening white salt pan set in the dramatic red landscape. Explore ancient volcanic ranges, learn about the region’s distinct organ pipe formations and take in beautiful and rugged coastal scenery. You will have the opportunity to learn about the southern sky while star gazing with a telescope and swim with sea lions and dolphins on the coast. Knowledgeable local guides provide information and insight about this beautiful region and the history, wildlife, and culture that complement it.

4 Day Outback to the Sea Itinerary

Day 1: Kangaluna Camp and Wildlife

Begin the day with a flight from Adelaide to the Gawler Ranges, 600km northwest of Adelaide.

On arrival, your tour begins with a visit to a colony of wild koalas at Mikkira Station near Port Lincoln before travelling through farming land and into the outback to Kangaluna Camp. After a rest at Kangaluna there is an afternoon tour to begin your wildlife experience; the outback animals thrive in this environment. Expect to see three species of kangaroos as well as emus and many birds today. Return to Kangaluna after sunset for drinks at Kolay Mirica Rocks (organ pipe formations). Spend the night tonight at Kangaluna Camp.

Day 2: Lake Gairdner and Gawler Ranges Wildlife

Visit an ochre pit on the morning drive to spectacular Lake Gairdner, which is reminiscent of Antaractica with its glistening white salt pan set in the red landscape.

Here you can walk on the surface of the lake and look north to see the endless white plain and the striking red surrounds and islands. The red dunes along the lake yield many animal tracks, flowers in spring, interesting vegetation and birds. Photo opportunities are endless.

In the afternoon you will drive through a changing landscape defined by cigar shaped volcanic rock formations and rife with wildlife.

You may see emus and red, western grey and euro kangaroos as we drive through the ancient outback range to Kangaluna Camp. You can enjoy the stars with a computerized telescope after dinner. Spend the night at Kangaluna Camp.

Day 3: Gawler Ranger National Park

Relax this morning and allow plenty of time to walk through the bush near the camp. This morning you will walk on Lake Sturt in the Corrobinnie Depression and see the array of colors and patterns in the bed of the old lake. This is a geological marvel, with many interesting rocks.

Continue around the lake to Mt Sturt, taking short walks in this beautiful landscape to observe the diversity of plants and trees. Early arrival back to the camp provides an additional opportunity to spot some of the 110 species of birds we have observed at Kangaluna and other visiting wildlife. Or you may choose to relax in the stunning surrounds.

Sunset drinks will finish the day at Sturt’s Lake. Overnight at Kangaluna Camp.

Day 4: Swimming with Sea Lions at Baird Bay

Take an early morning drive to Baird Bay in order to board the boat for an unforgettable wildlife experience. On the 5 kilometre journey to a lagoon at Jones Island near Cape Radstock (at 160 metres, it is one of the highest sheer points on the southern coast of Australia) you can watch Bottlenose dolphins ride the bow wave of the boat, and join these magnificent mammals in shallow water.

Cross the bay to visit a resident colony of rare Australian sea lions and experience play-time face to face with these agile and friendly mammals as we wade in protected shallow lagoons.  After lunch on the beach leave Baird Bay and visit Venus Bay, Elliston and enjoy magnificent coastal scenery on the journey to Port Lincoln.

Return to Adelaide on an early evening flight.

4 Day Outback to the Sea Accommodation

Each evening of this 4 day / 3 night tour you will return to the spectacular Kangaluna Camp. This is “glamping” (glamorous camping) at its finest. The Camp, which has a wonderful open air dining area, is the perfect place to relax, explore, and observe this natural setting.

The luxury safari tents, your sleeping accommodations, are set in the stunning mallee wilderness region of the Gawler Ranges in South Australia. This is perfect for the nature lover who really wants to be away from tourist areas and experience some of South Australia’s finest scenery and wildlife.

3 Day Cape Tribulation & Cooktown Wanderer

Tour operated by Adventure North

The Wanderer experience is for the independent traveller who wants free time to explore and relax in Cape Tribulation and Cooktown. Free day(s) are available on this flexible tour depending how long you would like to stay in the rainforest or in historic Cooktown. One of Australia’s most historically significant townships, Cooktown is the location where Captain James Cook spent almost seven weeks repairing his vessel, the HM Bark Endeavour. Cooktown provides something for everyone; it is a wonderful, untouched paradise rich in history.

Accommodation and key highlights are included, but enjoy the freedom to make decisions about how you choose to spend a portion of each day. On this tour you will have the opportunity to experience a unique 4WD experience while enjoying some of Australia’s most beautiful coastal scenery. Explore World Heritage listed Daintree National Park, the iconic Black Mountains, and stunning Cape Tribulation. Enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Outback of Far North Queensland.

3 Day Cape Tribulation and Cooktown Wanderer Itinerary

Day 1: Cairns-Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation by Billy Tea Bush Safaris. Travel north along the scenic route to Mossman – lush farmland contrasts with seascape as you approach the majestic Daintree River.

A short morning tea break, then its ‘all aboard’ for an informative one hour river cruise. Relax and enjoy the splendor only the Daintree can offer as you learn of Estuarine Crocodiles, mangrove forests and wildlife, this is nature at its best!

Ascend the Alexandra Range and pause for a panoramic view of World Heritage Tropical Rainforest merging with the azure colors of the Coral Sea. Experience the rainforest intimately on an elevated National Park Boardwalk. Accurate interpretations of flora and fauna will be given with ample time for photographs and questions as you search for the elusive and totally unique Southern Cassowary and other wildlife species within this particular habitat.

Day 2: Cape Tribulation – Cooktown

You will be collected from your accommodation by Adventure North then continue to on Cooktown – The Last Frontier of North Queensland. The 4WD -only Bloomfield Track allows you to travel through the heart of this World Heritage Listed area providing incredible glimpses of Australia. Travel over rugged mountain ranges and river crossings, spotting crocodiles and other Australian wildlife and fauna. Stop for lunch at the Lions Den Hotel, one of North Queensland’s oldest running Bush Pubs (est. 1875). Visit the mysterious Black Mountains steeped in Aboriginal legend before arriving mid afternoon in Cooktown.  Afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Day 3: Free Day Cooktown

Cooktown’s mains street has a wonderful charm and historical atmosphere. Experience the unspoiled beauty of the area, which remains much the same as Cook knew it in 1770. Walking trails surround Cooktown with most attractions within easy walking distance.

This afternoon return to Cairns. Travel will be through a diverse landscape of cattle stations and The Palmer River Gold mine region. The discovery of alluvial gold in 1872 led to Queensland’s largest gold rush.

3 Day Cape Tribulation and Cooktown Wanderer Accommodation

The first night of your trip will be spent at Heritage Lodge and Spa in the Daintree rainforest (see image).   Wake to the call of birds in one of the rainforest cabins and enjoy the clear pure air of the Daintree. The cabins are set in the quiet peacefulness of the rainforest and are perfect for bird, butterfly or musky rat kangaroo spotting. Take a swim with jungle perch and turtles in untouched crystal clear Cooper Creek, which winds through the lodge en-route from the mountains to the sea. The Heritage Lodge & Spa offers five star service in a magical and rejuvenating environment.

For the second night, enjoy an evening at Sovereign Resort. This beautiful 4 star resort, situated in the heart of Cooktown, is close to all historic sights, shops, wharf and museum. A beautiful pool and café/bar on site add to your comfort during your stay.

4 Nights Cairns-Lizard Island-Cairns

Tour Operated by Coral Expeditions

This 4-night Cairns – Lizard Island – Cairns cruise is the perfect option for those travelers wanting to spend the maximum amount of time exploring the colorful coral gardens of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a full day to discover two different sections of the rarely visited Ribbon Reefs, considered to be the most colorful and pristine reefs found anywhere along the entire length of the Great Barrier Reef, as well as the wonderful fringing reefs off Lizard Island and Two Isles. You will also have the opportunity to explore historic Cooktown and savour a full morning discovering spectacular Lizard Island.

For guests wanting to spend as much time as possible discovering the reefs of the Tropical North, whilst still enjoying time ashore, this itinerary offers you plenty of time to come face to face with the very best parts of the Great Barrier Reef.

4 Nights Cairns-Lizard Island-Cairns Itinerary

Day 1: Cairns and Welcome

Leaving Cairns in the evening, cruise Trinity Bay and settle in and discover your home for the next four nights. In the evening, join the crew and your traveling companions on the top deck to enjoy a glass of champagne as you cruise northward, passing Double Island and the pretty beachside village of Palm Cove.  Admire a spectacular sunset over the World Heritage-listed rainforest of the Macalister Range before sitting down to a delicious dinner.

Day 2: Cooktown and Great Barrier Reef

Use the morning to discover historic Cooktown, which is steeped in history with buildings dating back to the 1870s. It was here that the famous explorer Captain James Cook took refuge during his voyage of discovery after claiming Australia as a British Colony in 1770. You have the opportunity to visit Cooktown’s fascinating James Cook historical museum, featuring original artifacts from Cook’s ship – HMS Endeavour.  Perhaps visit the Botanic Gardens, where you may catch a glimpse of some native Australian wildlife including kangaroos and wallabies in their natural habitat. This afternoon visit one of the remote uninhabited islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Join the tour’s Marine Biologist for a glass bottom boat tour over the colorful coral gardens and discover some of the 1,500 species of tropical fish that call the reef home. You may wish to enjoy a snorkeling opportunity for an up close view of the hundreds of varieties of coral growing on this section of reef. Our experienced crew will be on hand to provide assistance, advice and guided snorkeling tours for less experienced swimmers.

Day 3: Lizard Island, Reef and Snorkeling

This morning awaken moored beside beautiful Lizard Island. The energetic may join their guides on a walk to ‘Cook’s Look’ on the island’s peak (hiking or running shoes required). It was from here, the highest lookout on this part of the reef, that Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage back through the treacherous waters after repairing the Endeavour near Cooktown almost 250 years ago. A photographer’s delight, the views from the lookout over the World Heritage-listed reef and surrounding tropical islands are magnificent. Lizard Island’s fringing reef, in the shallow waters just metres off the beach, offers some fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Discover giant clams and a profusion of tropical fish. Simply relax on the beach, join the Marine Biologist on a glass bottom boat tour, or for the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience accompany our Dive Instructor on an unforgettable SCUBA dive. The choice is yours! This afternoon cruise to Ribbon Reef No. 9, a spectacular and seldom visited part of the reef where  activities will include more snorkeling opportunities and glass bottom boat tours with the Marine Biologist.

Day 4: Spectacular Ribbon Reefs

The Great Barrier Reef is not actually one continuous reef, but a series of individual coral cays stretching over 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) between the town of Bundaberg and the tip of Australia at Cape York.  Spend today visiting two of the most spectacular sections of the reef, Ribbon Reef No. 3 and Escape Reef. Explore the coral gardens and marine life with guided snorkeling and glass bottom boat tours. The on board Marine Biologist will explain the natural history and evolution of the reef and help you discover the local wildlife, which includes sea turtles, giant clams, rays and over 200 different species of native birds. Today will also be your last opportunity to experience the reef through SCUBA diving, so allow your Dive Instructor to guide you on an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. This evening enjoy your final memorable night cruising the Great Barrier Reef.

Day 5: Arrive Cairns

Disembark in Cairns this morning.

4 Nights Cairns-Lizard Island-Cairns Accommodation

Enjoy your evenings aboard one of Coral Expeditions three small cruise ships. This fleet of expedition style cruise ships has been specially designed and purpose-built to exacting stands; these are the ideal small ships for discovering the natural wonders of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. These ships are large enough to provide all the modern amenities and comforts of larger cruise ships, yet small enough to enable access to the reef and island sites inaccessible to other vessels. Comfortable rooms, wonderful food and accommodating staff make staying aboard a truly pleasurable experience.

4 Day Icons of Australia

Tour operated by Travel Tasmania

This Tasmania tour allows you to experience the magic of Australia’s island state and brings you into contact with rugged wilderness, endemic wildlife, beautiful beaches, a sense of history and the best of contemporary Tasmanian hospitality. Designed by people who know and love Tasmania, this small group tour incorporates Tasmanian icons such as the famous Wineglass Bay, the Tasmanian Devil, the convict ruins of Port Arthur and the vibrant Salamanca markets – it will take you off the beaten path to discover some of the hidden treasures of the island.

4 Day Icons of Australia Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Hobart

Arrive in Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart and transfer to your accommodation. You might like to allow time to stroll through Hobart’s legendary Salamanca Markets and visit Tasmania’s newest attraction, MONA. The Museum of Old & New Art is one of the world’s most unique and controversial museums. View the largest private art collection in Australia with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern art.

Day 2: Bonorong – Mt Field National Park

Today, travel to Bonorong Wildlife Park to experience Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Wallabies, Echidnas, Quolls and other Australian animals first hand. Continue to Tasmania’s oldest National Park, Mt Field. Explore the green forest canopy of the National Park with a rainforest walk to Russell Falls and a beautiful circuit via Horseshoe Falls and the Tall Trees. Here you can see some of the tallest trees in the world.

Day 3: Tasman Peninsula – Port Arthur – Freycinet

Enjoy a scenic drive to Tasmania’s East Coast. Explore the Tasman Peninsula where you will visit Port Arthur and hear the story of Tasmania’s famous UNESCO world heritage listed convict settlement. The Tasman Peninsula offers stunning scenery as well as many interesting geological features such as Devil’s Kitchen and Tasman Arch. Continue to the beautiful Freycinet Peninsula with its pristine white sandy beaches and granite coastline.

Day 4: Freycinet National park – Launceston

This morning there will be time to explore the unsurpassed beauty of the Freycinet Peninsula. Take an interpreted walk to the world famous Wineglass Bay lookout for some stunning photo opportunities. Continue your journey to Launceston for an introductory tour and explore the scenic Cataract Gorge where the Tamar River forces its way through sheer rocky cliffs.

4 Day Icons of Australia Accommodation

Enjoy a variety of accommodations on this tour of Tasmania’s highlights. Spend the first two nights in a 4 star hotel in Hobart before moving on to Freycinet National Park, where you will enjoy your third and final night in a 4 star lodge – style accommodation on the Freycinet Peninsula.