Best of Australia
from $7128
Duration: 12 Days
Calling all nature lovers – it doesn’t get much more Australian than on this 12-day adventure. Start with visits to Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge before dipping into the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains for a day trip through some incredible scenery. Then, venture into the heart of Australia and experience the awe of Uluru, Kings Canyon and many more significant First Nations sites in the Red Centre. Finally, bask in the natural splendour of the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient wonder of Daintree Rainforest – this trip really shows that Australia can do it all.
  • See all the sites of Sydney – a bustling central city along Australia’s East Coast – like the Opera House, Hyde Park plus a tour around the Harbour with a First Nations guide.
  • Visit the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains seeing the gorgeous scenery of Wentworth Falls and the Three Sisters on foot and from above on the skyway.
  • Discover the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you marvel at the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.
  • Embark on a guided walk through Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) and short a hike across the famous Kings Canyon plateau.
  • Take a full-day sailing and snorkelling tour of the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas, learning about the underwater ecosystem and the fragility of the environment from professional marine biologists.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Greening Australia. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges, restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature.
  • Sydney - The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour
  • Wentworth Falls - Wentworth Falls Lookout
  • Katoomba - Scenic Skyway
  • Katoomba - Scenic Walkway
  • Katoomba - Three Sisters Walk
  • Katoomba - Echo Point Lookout
  • Katoomba - Scenic Cableway
  • Katoomba - Scenic Railway
  • Sydney – Harbour to Manly return ferry
  • Sydney – Exploration of Manly Beach
  • Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park - Guided Aboriginal cultural walk
  • Kings Canyon - Creek Walk
  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Walpa Gorge Walk
  • Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Rim Walk
  • Uluru - Uluru Sunset
  • Uluru - Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole with Anangu guide
  • Uluru - Uluru Sunrise
  • Kuranda - Skyrail (one-way)
  • Kuranda - Kuranda Markets
  • Kuranda - Kuranda Village Visit
  • Day 1 Location: Sydney
    Welcome to Sydney, Australia – or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Sydney is now located. Your adventure starts today with a welcome meeting at your hotel at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and fellow travellers for a walkabout tour with an Aboriginal guide in and around The Rocks. Walk through Hicksons Reserve, Campbells Cove, Cumberland Walk and more as your guide teaches you about this area's history, land and water use and spiritual connection with the First Nations peoples. After your journey into the Dreaming, head out on a leader-led orientation walk to Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, the Botanical Gardens, Hyde Park and the Sydney Tower Eye. Join your group for an included welcome dinner along Darling Harbour and then settle into your hotel for the night.
    Day 2 Location: Blue Mountains / Sydney
    This morning, head out on a day trip to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains – a land of rugged peaks, soaring waterfalls and dense eucalyptus forest. Stop at Wentworth Falls for grand valley views at Fletchers Lookout. Head to Katoomba and visit Echo Point Lookout, which overlooks the iconic Three Sisters. Walk the Three Sisters track, which takes you up close to the sisters and enjoy the expansive views of the national park below. You might like to stop for lunch at the famous Lookout Restaurant and enjoy the views overlooking Echo Point Escarpment as you eat. Or maybe head into Katoomba town to check out the bohemian shops and find a small café to set up for lunch. This afternoon, you’ll head to Scenic World – a private, family-owned tourism spot boasting sweeping views of the mountains. Hop aboard the steepest railway in the world and ride into Jamison Valley, where you can explore the many boardwalks through the rainforest, looking out for lyrebirds and ancient tree ferns. Ride the cableway, which cruises past the sandstone escarpment and Orphan Rock. See Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters again, but from above, on the fantastic Scenic Skyway, which soars through the mountains. Tonight, return to your accommodation in Darling Harbour.
    Day 3 Location: Manly / Sydney
    This morning after breakfast, you’ll hop on the public ferry from Sydney Harbour to Manly. Departing regularly from Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House before passing Kirribilli House (the Prime Minister’s official residence), Bradleys Head and South Head before arriving at Manly Wharf. From here, you’ll walk to Manly Beach where you can enjoy the cafes and laidback beach lifestyle or join your leader for a coastal walk to the nearby Shelly Beach. This afternoon, take the ferry back to Circular Quay and take a short walk back to your accommodation. Say goodbye to you Leader and any group members who may be finishing their travels here in Sydney. You will be unaccompanied until the Welcome Meeting in Alice Springs tomorrow at 6pm.
    Day 4 Location: Sydney / Alice Springs
    Your included airport transfer will take you from the hotel to Sydney Airport this morning. Fly to Alice Springs (flight not included), or Mparntwe, in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Alice Springs is now located, is the quintessential laidback Aussie town and your launching pad to reach some of the top spots on the agenda over the next few days. The next part of your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your new group leader and new travel companions. Until then, feel free to check out some of the town’s sights or tuck into an Outback inspired meal at one of the quirky local cafes.
    Day 5 Location: West MacDonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon
    This morning, you’ll hit the road for Simpsons Gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja). Keep an eye out for rock wallabies as you take part in a guided walk through the important spiritual site. A First Nations guide will share their insights on the local flora and fauna and will tell the story of the great Tjunba (Perentie) totem that protects the gorge and its present importance to the Eastern and Northern Arrernte People. The walk will also take you along the riverbed that marks the boundary between the Eastern and Northern Arrernte tribes. Next, drive along the Stuart and Lasseter Highway and through the colourful semi-desert to Watarrka National Park, home of the majestic Kings Canyon. Your leader will take you along the Kings Creek Walk, following the trail between soaring cliffs and ethereal rock formations. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place! Tonight enjoy an included dinner before visiting the Light Towers - an immersive visual and aural display.
    Day 6 Location: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara
    Spend the morning exploring the rugged landscape of Kings Canyon and enjoy the 3-hour rim walk up and across the famous Kings Canyon plateau, from the sandstone domes of the 'Lost City' to the oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'. You’ll walk across the red rock cliffs that protrude from the land and take in views of the palm forest below. Then hit the road again for a scenic drive across the red landscape to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Keep your eyes out, there’s chance that you might spot brumbys, camels or wallabies on the drive. First up today, you’ll arrive in Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations. Here, you'll embark on a walk to a popular lookout to admire the stunning red formations that make up Kata Tjuta – these ochre-coloured shapes are a mesmerising sight. After, you'll make your way to one of Australia’s most spiritually significant and iconic sites, Uluru. From a prime location, you’ll enjoy the view as the sun sets over the epic sandstone monolith – watching the incredible landscape shift in colour is a sight you won’t soon forget!
    Day 7 Location: Uluru / Yulara
    You'll start the day early in one of the best ways imaginable – watching a spectacular sunrise over Uluru. Embark on a short walk across the rust-coloured landscape to a nearby waterhole and marvel at some of the traditional art sites. Your leader will shed light on the history and nature here and explain how the Anangu people are deeply connected to the lands. After, stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to continue learning about First Nations culture. Head back to Yulara to your hotel and say goodbye to your Leader and any group members who may be finishing their travels today. You will be unaccompanied until the Welcome Meeting in Cairns tomorrow at 6pm.
    Day 8 Location: Yulara / Cairns
    The free resort airport shuttle will take you from the hotel to Yulara Airport today. Fly to Cairns (flight not included), Or Gimuy, in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Cairns is now located. This is the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the gorgeous Daintree Rainforest. The next part of your adventure officially starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your trip leader and your new fellow travellers. If you arrive in Cairns with time to spare, why not check out the Cairns Botanical Gardens – just five minutes from the CBD, you’ll find yourself in a lush tropical wonderland. Or simply wander the waterfront promenade, popping into any local bars that take your fancy. Later, maybe head out with your group for an optional dinner. 
    Day 9 Location: Kuranda / Port Douglas
    This morning after breakfast, soar over the world’s oldest tropical rainforest via the Skyrail that connects Cairns to the picturesque mountain village of Kuranda. You’ll glide along 7.5 km of cableway and admire the ancient landscape from a truly unique perspective. You’ll have some free time to explore this charming rainforest town and its surroundings – Kuranda is a delightful mix of colourful characters and natural beauty, perched at the top of a rainforest-clad mountain. You might like to check out the famous Kuranda Markets and village shopping or kick back and relax at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes, where outdoor dining is one of the joys of the cooler mountain climate. Drive along the coast to Port Douglas, taking in the ocean views and the cliffs covered in native flora. Tonight, head out on an orientation walk around Port Douglas, stopping at Trinity Bay Lookout Point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf. Then, head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to your accommodation for the evening. 
    Day 10 Location: Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas
    Today, you’ll visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest. When you arrive, head out on a one-hour crocodile and wildlife spotting boat tour along the Daintree River (Julaymba). On the electric Solar Whisper, you’ll hear the sounds of nature around you as you look out for crocs, birdlife, snakes, frogs, crabs and fish. Your experienced guide will be accustomed to the nuances of the river, the rainforest and the mangroves, meaning you’ll be able to find wildlife you wouldn’t be able to find on your own. After you find some feathered friends and long-toothed foes, head north to Cape Tribulation, stopping at Jindalba Boardwalk and a local ice cream factory on the way.  
    Day 11 Location: Great Barrier Reef / Port Douglas
    This morning, you’ll head out on a fantastic full-day boat tour from Port Douglas. Explore the stunning Coral Cays on the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing boat guided by marine biologists, who will share their passion and knowledge of the reef as you float along the expansive blue waters. Learn about the fragile environment, enjoy presentations on the reef by experts on board and head to an exclusive site for a spot of wildlife-focused snorkelling (equipment provided). There are vast coral gardens to explore at your own pace – as a protected and shallow area, you’ll see corals, giant clams, turtles and fish in their natural habitat. Enjoy a buffet lunch (including prawns) and afternoon tea on board (including local Daintree produce) while you continue to spot wildlife from the glass-bottomed boat. Tonight, enjoy a night to relax in Port Douglas after a spectacular day on the water.
    Day 12 Location: Mossman Gorge / Palm Cove / Cairns
    This morning, you’ll head to Mossman Gorge for a fascinating Ngadiku Dreamtime walking tour, led by a local Aboriginal guide. Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul) means stories and legends from a long time ago in the local Kuku Yalanji language and you’ll learn about these stories on a guided walk along private, gentle tracks, visiting culturally significant sites, traditional bark shelters and cool rainforest streams. Witness a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse and ward off bad spirits and then stroll through the lush rainforest, learning about traditional plant use, bush food sources and the connection to this unique tropical environment. After, enjoy a traditional bush tea and damper (a loaf or cake of flour and water that’s baked in wood ashes). Drive south to Palm Cove, stopping along the way to explore the scenic beachside town where you can grab some lunch. You can end your trip here or carry on to Cairns, where your trip will come to an end at approximately 4pm.
    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date:
    16MAY2024
    Return Date:
    27MAY2024
    8910NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    13JUN2024
    Return Date:
    24JUN2024
    8910NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    27JUN2024
    Return Date:
    08JUL2024
    8910NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    08AUG2024
    Return Date:
    19AUG2024
    8910NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    05SEP2024
    Return Date:
    16SEP2024
    9355NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    03OCT2024
    Return Date:
    14OCT2024
    9355NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    31OCT2024
    Return Date:
    11NOV2024
    9355NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    14NOV2024
    Return Date:
    25NOV2024
    9800NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    28NOV2024
    Return Date:
    09DEC2024
    9800NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    26DEC2024
    Return Date:
    06JAN2025
    9800NZD
    available
    Last modified (date)

    07 Feb 2024

    Trip title

    Best of Australia

    Trip code

    PZKAC

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Apr 2024 to 31 Mar 2025

    Introduction

    Calling all nature lovers – it doesn’t get much more Australian than on this 12-day adventure. Start with visits to Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge before dipping into the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains for a day trip through some incredible scenery. Then, venture into the heart of Australia and experience the awe of Uluru, Kings Canyon and many more significant First Nations sites in the Red Centre. Finally, bask in the natural splendour of the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient wonder of Daintree Rainforest – this trip really shows that Australia can do it all.

    Style

    Comfort

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

    Private vehicle,Boat

    Physical Rating

    1

    Physical preparation

    This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Some trips may have individual inclusions that may be of a higher physical rating compared to the overall rating of the trip. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully to find out more details on each day's activities, and whether they are suitable for you. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate. KINGS CANYON, ULURU & KATA TJUTA This trip includes walks and hikes around the major landmarks of this area. Please read the daily itinerary carefully for details. Walking is the best way to explore these stunning geological features in this otherwise flat landscape, so make sure you bring along comfortable walking shoes.

    Joining point

    Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour

    319 - 325 Sussex St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

    Sydney

    AUSTRALIA

    Continuing point

    Mercure Alice Springs

    34 Stott Terrace

    Alice Springs

    AUSTRALIA

    Continuing point

    The Pacific Hotel

    43 Esplanade, Cairns City

    Cairns City

    Cairns

    4870

    AUSTRALIA

    Finish point

    The Pacific Hotel

    43 Esplanade, Cairns City

    Cairns City

    Cairns

    4870

    AUSTRALIA

    Important information

    FLIGHTS BETWEEN TRIPS Flights from Sydney To Alice Springs and from Yulara to Cairns are not included. Please see the itinerary for information on recommended flight details and book these through your agent or directly with the airline. START & END TIMES The trip starts in Sydney with a Welcome Meeting at 1 pm on Day 1 at our joining point hotel. The trip finishes in Palm Cove on Day 12 in the early afternoon or in Cairns at our finish point hotel at approximately 4pm. Accommodation is not included on this day but can be booked on request (Cairns only). COMBINATION TRIP This is a combination trip made up of three shorter trips. This means the composition of your group may change in Alice Springs or Cairns as some group members leave and new ones join you. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT A Single Supplement can be booked if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip, subject to availability.

    Group leader

    AUSTRALIA LEADERS All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. In Australia your group leader is often also your driver, taking you from start to finish. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, as well as recommend great local eating venues. They will also introduce you to our local friends along the way. Please be aware they will be juggling many things on your tour and on some days may have less time to spend with you. But they will always be working hard to ensure you and your group have a fantastic time exploring Australia!

    Safety

    Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    REMOTE AREA TRAVEL We carry a satellite phone on all our remote/overland trips to be used by our leaders in the event of an emergency and for your safety. Our leaders are all First Aid trained and certified.

    BEACH SAFETY Rip currents are the leading hazard for all beach users. They can occur at any beach and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Rip currents are responsible for around 15,000 beach rescues each year in Australia. To enjoy Australia's beaches safely, take the following simple precautions: - Always swim between the red and yellow flags. These indicate that it is a supervised location where a lifesaving service is currently on duty. - Do not swim at unsupervised locations. - Observe and obey safety signage, which indicates current and typical hazards for that location. - Ask a lifeguard or lifesaver for advice on conditions. They are there to make your experience safer and more enjoyable. - Always swim with a friend – never swim alone. - If you get into trouble, stay calm and signal for help by calling and waving your arm above your head. - Be aware of your own limitations in terms of your physical health and your swimming ability in the given conditions. Never swim while, or after, consuming alcohol.

    SWIMMING POOLS: You may stay at hotels with unfenced pools and no life guard on duty.

    Communications

    PHONE COVERAGE & WIFI In remote areas of Australia travelling even a small distance from populated areas will see phone coverage drop off dramatically. The extent of coverage will depend on your phone provider. If you are spending longer in Australia it might be a good idea to purchase a local SIM card. Telstra and Optus deliver better coverage in rural and regional areas, while Vodafone can be very patchy. Wifi is common at accommodations in urban areas of Australia, but many of the more remote properties may not offer this service, and some properties may charge a fee for usage.

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    See all the sites of Sydney – a bustling central city along Australia’s East Coast – like the Opera House, Hyde Park plus a tour around the Harbour with a First Nations guide.

    Visit the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains seeing the gorgeous scenery of Wentworth Falls and the Three Sisters on foot and from above on the skyway.

    Discover the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you marvel at the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.

    Embark on a guided walk through Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) and short a hike across the famous Kings Canyon plateau.

    Take a full-day sailing and snorkelling tour of the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas, learning about the underwater ecosystem and the fragility of the environment from professional marine biologists.

    By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Greening Australia. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges, restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature.

    Is this trip right for you

    Flights from Sydney To Alice Springs and from Yulara to Cairns are not included. Please see the itinerary for information on recommended flight details. This trip involves plenty of walking over varied terrain and is best suited to travellers with good fitness and mobility. See information about specific walks in the itinerary. Temperatures in Australia's Red Centre can be extreme, so you will need to be well prepared. Depending on the time of the year, daytime can be very hot (and the Australian sun is very strong year-round) so always use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures can really drop, so bring sufficient warm clothing, too as in winter, temperatures can drop below zero at night. On some days of the trip, you’ll spend many hours driving through very remote areas of Australia. Sit back and enjoy landscapes that you would miss in any other form of travel. The days can be long, but you’ll want to fit as much of this amazing place in as you can in four short days! As sunrise and sunset times as well as weather conditions vary throughout the year, the order of activities may change to ensure you have the best experience possible. On occasion, the First Nations experiences may not be available should your guides have other cultural commitments, in which case there will be alternative activities. Some activities on this trip are subject to weather and water conditions and on occasion, may be cancelled for safety or operational reasons. In the case of cancellation, we will endeavour to find a suitable replacement activity.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.  HYDRATION Daytime temperatures across Australia can be extreme from October to March with temperatures over 40C/104F. Even for travellers familiar with these temperatures, it’s easy to become dehydrated. The key point to remember is not to wait until you’re thirsty, but to drink water regularly. Adding an electrolyte solution can aid in replenishing the salts/electrolytes lost when travelling at this time of year. In extreme heat you will be required to carry 1L of water per hour of walking.

    Food and dietary requirements

    While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Australia eats multi-culturally. Everything from meat pies to ramen, tacos, curries, rice and pasta are part of the national diet. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for in Australia and most restaurants and cafes will have a good selection of vegetarian meals. Gluten and lactose-free diets are also well catered for.

    Money matters

    The currency of Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD). Most shops will take card as well as cash, but occasionally will only take one or the other. ATMs are common in all cities and towns, but may be limited in remote areas. You may need to use a PIN for purchases, and businesses often add a small surcharge for card payments. SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. TIPPING Tipping is generally voluntary in Australia and is most commonly used to show appreciation for good service. Tipping is most common in the hospitality industry, especially at higher end restaurants and bars. If you choose to tip, the general rule is to add 10-15% to the bill. But these rules are just guidelines - feel free to tip however much or however little you feel comfortable with. After dining out, cash is left on the table, or in a tip jar at the counter. A tip can also be added to any cashless transaction that includes a tipping function. Taxi drivers won’t expect a tip, although it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest dollar. You do not need to tip hotel staff or local guides in Australia.  You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline 4-6 AUD per person, per day can be used.  CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

    What to take

    LUGGAGE LIMIT Due to limited vehicle space and strictly enforced road laws regarding weight limits, your main piece of luggage must be soft-sided and weigh no more than 15kg/33lb. You can also bring a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, sunscreen, etc when you’re exploring during the day. Please note that we are unable to carry large suitcases, particularly hard/externally framed suitcases as they are difficult to store and can damage equipment and other travellers' belongings.

    Below are some essential items for this trip. Please review the ‘Climate and Seasonal Information’ to ensure you pack appropriately for the weather at the time of year you are travelling. - Lightweight clothing. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing and layers. Long shirts and pants are useful to protect against the harsh Australian sun. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry. Maybe bring a change of smart clothes for dinner in larger cities. Australia is pretty casual, shorts or a skirt and a top, with sandals, is our usual warm weather wardrobe. - Comfortable, closed-in shoes. These will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grasslands and will act as a protective barrier in the rare case of a bite or sting. A pair of sandals or thongs/flip flops are great for the beach. - Sun protection. Wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. VALUABLES Try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. MORE! If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.

    Climate and seasonal

    AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL HOLIDAYS The following national holidays are observed in Australia, which can affect our itinerary as traffic can be extreme, and shops, restaurants and attractions can be closed: New Year's Day (01 January) Good Friday (date varies) Anzac Day (25 April) Christmas Day (25 December) Boxing Day (26 December) CENTRAL AUSTRALIA WEATHER Central Australia, which includes Alice Springs, Uluru and the surrounding desert, has a semi-arid climate. The area experiences large variations in temperature from season to season. Temperatures can be extreme on either side of the scale. They can rise above 40C/104F in summer and can drop below 0C/32F overnight in winter. Make sure you are well prepared no matter the season!

    A couple of rules

    We like to think our Intrepid travellers are all connected by a love of adventure and passion for seeing the world in a different way. We've laid down a few non-negotiable rules to ensure everyone feels connected, comfortable and safe on our trips. We ask that you respect your fellow travellers, group leader or local representative, and local people and places we visit in all circumstances. We don't tolerate any forms of violence and expect that you follow the local laws, customs and regulations in any destination we travel to. Any behaviour contrary to the above, including any behaviour that prevents our staff from performing their duty of care or continuing the itinerary as planned, may result in travellers being removed from the trip. If you consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect you to abide by local alcohol laws. To ensure the well-being of everyone on the trip, all decisions made by group leaders or local representatives and ground staff are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. By travelling with us, you agree to comply with these rules and the laws and customs of all countries visited. If something is concerning you during your travels with us, please speak to your group leader or local representative immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in your Essential Trip Information’s Problems and Emergency Contact section.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/ In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: ALL general enquiry must be directed to our reservations team. In case of a GENUINE EMERGENCY, or concerns about a missed pick-up on the day of departure ONLY, please contact our local Operations Team on the number listed below: 1300 544 882 or +61 8 6219 5164 Available for phone call or WhatsApp call on +1300 544 882

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN As an Australian-owned business with a vision to change the way people see the world, Intrepid is committed to reconciliation and strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples. While Intrepid might have done a lot to empower communities, businesses and our partners around the world over the years, there’s still a lot for us to do here at home. We are working towards a better, more inclusive and fairer Australia. You can find more information about our Reconciliation Action Plan here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/reconciliation

    The Intrepid Foundation

    We created our not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation because you – our travellers – told us you wanted to make an even greater impact in the communities you visit. The Foundation works by teaming up with partners around the world so that together we can deliver greater positive impact at scale. Partners are identified by our local staff who live and work in our destinations. They harness their powerful community connections to determine the issues that matter most and select local partners who can deliver real solutions. Since 2002, the Intrepid Foundation has raised more than $14million dollars and supported more than 160 communities worldwide. Now, with over 40 partners all over the world, your donations are helping to restore forests in Kenya, empower women in Honduras and promote elephant welfare in Laos, to name just a few. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your group leader or local representative or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports Greening Australia, who are restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature. They’re taking action to rebuild resilient ecosystems across Australia, from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the cool island ark of Tasmania. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges through large on-ground restoration projects and research initiatives that help scale their impact. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/greening-australia

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

    Transport notes

    DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA Australia is a BIG country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that's why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates. HOT WEATHER From October to March it is likely that you will experience temperatures over 35C/95F. These extreme temperatures place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your leader will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping cool and hydrated.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services AUSTRALIANS TRAVELLING DOMESTICALLY Travel insurance will help ensure you’re protected in case of any unforeseen changes to your journey – such as flight cancellations or COVID-19 related disruptions. For this reason, we recommend you purchase comprehensive domestic travel insurance for your trip. This may not be something you would have typically done in the past when travelling domestically in Australia, but it does offer you a number of benefits in these dynamic times. While Australians and Australian Permanent Residents travelling within Australia are not required to be covered for hospital care due to being covered by Medicare, a comprehensive domestic travel insurance policy should cover you for expenses resulting from – among other things – COVID-19 related changes, including an outbreak in your destination or on your departure necessitating changes to your travel plans that incur additional costs. Domestic travel insurance plans may also include personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, loss of luggage and personal effects, and other benefits. It is also advisable that domestic travellers have current ambulance cover in the case of emergency evacuation or incidents requiring ambulance transportation. Please be sure to carefully check the policy’s inclusions with your preferred insurer.

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis. On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL EXPERIENCES & COMMUNITIES First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments. In the case that we are unable to include planned activities with First Nations communities, we will endeavour to find a suitable alternative in the same or another destination on your trip.

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