Grand Aussie Reverse 2012 - 13

Itinerary

Day 1 Darwin to Mary River

A refreshing start to your day checking out the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. Travel west into Woolna Country and receive a Cul Cul or unique ‘Welcome to Country’ by the traditional owners of the land the Limilngan – Wulna people. Experience the local Aboriginal Culture, cooking your own bush tucker, playing the didgeridoo, basket weaving and spear throwing. to finish the day we head to the spectacular Mary River Wetlands, where birds aren’t the only wildlife abundant around here; keep your eyes out for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite in the Mary River Region is where we’ll stay tonight. (L, D)

 

Day 2 Mary River to Kakadu

Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, our first stop this morning. Clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it’s on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (L, D)

 

Day 3 Kakadu to Darwin

Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we’ll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (B, L)

 

Day 4 Darwin to Katherine Gorge

Leaving Darwin, we stop for a break at Adelaide River on the way to Katherine. We spend the afternoon at the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Experience the striking beauty while canoeing or cruising (at own expense & seasonal) through the gorge itself. Want to see more? Jump onboard a helicopter flight (at own expense) which will take you high above the vast gorge system. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp near Katherine Gorge. (L, D)

 

Day 5 Katherine Gorge to Tennant Creek

Not far to the south is Mataranka, where you can revive in a sparkling thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Next stop is the iconic Daly Waters outback hotel, the Territory’s oldest pub. Nearby lies Australia’s first international airport, but you wont get a flight back home from here these days! After lunch, we continue south to Tennant Creek where we camp overnight at our private campsite. (B, L, D)

 

Day 6 Tennant Creek to Alice Springs

This morning we check out the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously on their rocky perch. From here we stop in at Barrow Creek Pub, home to the historic Telegraph Station – catch a glimpse of what outback telecommunication used to be like! We cross over the Tropic of Capricorn, before arriving early evening into Alice Springs. (B, L)

 

Day 7 Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru

Kick off your adventure on top of a camel! Our first stop is the Outback Camel Farm where you can choose to ride atop one of these desert giants (at own expense). From here it’s off to Uluru (Ayers Rock), and a bite to eat. Kata Tjuta will fascinate you, and you will discover some of the secrets of this ancient landform on the Valley of the Winds hike. You’ll be mesmerised as the desert sun sets over Uluru, and as the night grows darker, curl up in your swag (Aussie bedroll) under millions of stars. (L, D)

 

Day 8 Uluru to Kings Canyon

It’s an early start this morning, but you’ll be rewarded with a glorious Uluru sunrise. While the morning’s fresh (and your legs are too!) enjoy an unguided walk around the base of Uluru. You will then deepen your understanding of the land and the Mala people as you take a cultural interpretive walk with an Aboriginal guide (and interpreter). Explore the many caves of the Mala people, learning how they lived and prepared for ceremonies. Your Aboriginal guide will also share the sensitive story of the Mala people who lived at Uluru with their friend the Itjaritjari (marsupial mole). There is also a visit to sacred Kantju Gorge, a quiet water hole at the base of a dramatic rock face. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to purchase Aboriginal arts and crafts at the Cultural Centre before we travel to our exclusive campsite within the Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) where we sleep for the night. (B, L, D)

 

Day 9 Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Get your hiking shoes on today as we head out to explore the impressive formations of Kings Canyon. You’ll be left breathless by the sheer beauty of the canyon as we trek through the Amphitheatre, the Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the North and South Walls. Lunch is a welcome prospect, before we make our way back to Alice Springs. (B, L)

 

Day 10 Alice Springs to Cairns

Today say goodbye to the outback as we board our flight for Cairns – you will certainly notice the contrast. (B)

Flight included in the trip price

 

Day 11 Cairns

Where the rainforest meets the reef, that’s where we are so why not take advantage of these two spectacular natural landscapes with a day available for optional activities! (B)

 

Day 12 Cairns to The Whitsundays (Sailing)

We're up early today, heading south from Cairns, towards the Far North’s largest City of Townsville. It's not far through the tropical towns of Sarina and Bowen (Home to the Big Mango) until we reach our gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Step aboard our yacht and make passage through the inlets. Tonight you'll gaze upon the stars from the deck and enjoy the relaxed vibes. (B, D)

 

Day 13 The Whitsundays (Whitehaven Beach) – South Molle Island

Today get ready to chase the sun over the shimmering ocean. Wake up from the shelter of a nearby cove and get ready for a day of sailing! We'll take in beautiful beaches, snorkel through colourful reefs and get a taste of tropical living. Weather permitting; we'll visit Whitehaven Beach (the whitest sand you've ever seen) and Blue Pearl Bay. Then we plot a course for nearby South Molle Island, our home for the next two nights – take a turn on the helm if you're up for it! (B, D)

 

Day 14 The Whitsundays (South Molle Island)

Back on dry land, explore the idyllic surrounds of South Molle feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, go snorkelling or swimming, even a quick 9 holes of golf if you feel the urge (own expense). There's plenty of bushwalking tracks available, with scenic views of the Whitsundays and 17 (count 'em) private beaches if you want to get away. A walk up “Spion Kop” (voted as one of the best island bushwalks) is a must. Either way, the pace is relaxed and the choice is all yours. (B, D)

 

Day 15 Whitsundays to Emu Park

Our short morning ferry lands us back into Shute Harbour where we jump back on the coach, our destination Rockhampton (or “Rocky” to its mates), Beef Capital of Queensland. It’s not far from here to our overnight pit stop, set in the relaxed beach locales of Emu Park. You won’t need any help chilling out in a place like this! Go for a swim in the pool, take to the beach, or just enjoy the warm sunshine. Tonight make the most of the locals’ hospitality as we tuck into a ‘Reef & Beef Dinner’, right by the ocean! (B, L, D)

 

Day 16 Emu Park to Kroombit

A hearty breakfast greets us today, then a chance to let it settle before our visit to the Sandilands family, and their 10,000 acre cattle station. Breathe in the fresh air and get a feel for the wide open spaces. Try your hand at goat mustering, horse riding, quad bike trailing or even trap shooting this afternoon (own expense). Spot some of the local kangaroos and birds as you enjoy this peaceful taste of the Australian bush. Later get ready for the world-famous “Goat Rodeo”, before we settle in ‘round the campfire for a tale or three. Don’t forget to try your skills on the Mechanical Bull, either! (B, D)

 

Day 17 Kroombit to Noosa

Leaving the farm behind, we journey back to the coast to Noosa, a popular resort town on the Sunshine Coast! Enjoy the endless beaches of the area, or just mosey around town. Tonight we’ll share a drink or two with the friendly locals. (B)

 

Day 18 Fraser Island

Today we’re taking a guided tour around the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island! Join our local guides in a 4WD trip that drinks in the awesome beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. We’ll traverse the stunning Seventy Five Mile Beach, before entering the tropical part of the isle for a guided rainforest walk. After a “fair dinkum” (read authentic) Aussie BBQ on the banks of Lake McKenzie, we’ll take to the waters for a cooling swim. There’s still time to stop off at Central Station, as well as witnessing the multi-coloured sands of Rainbow Beach before returning to Noosa. (B, L)

 

Day 19 Noosa to Gold Coast

Continuing along the famous Irwin Way, passing the Glasshouse Mountain range and hitting the Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin, time is available for those who wish to visit the zoo today (own expense). For the rest of us, we will make our way to Queensland’s Capitol City Brisbane. We arrive in Brisbane, boarding one of the famed CityCats for a cruise along the river and a chance to gaze up at the city skyline. Cruising through the outer suburbs, we’ll get a feel for one of Australia’s most popular holiday spots Surfers Paradise! Expect warm beaches and even warmer locals (Google “Meter Maids” if you don’t believe us). Tonight we regroup for a frame or two of bowling and some dinner, before getting a taste of the nightlife on offer – it’s gonna be a big one!

(B, D)

 

Day 20 Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Today you have a chance to go “Crazy on the Goldy”! Explore the surrounds on your own time – perhaps visit the nearby theme parks for some thrills and excitement, or just indulge in a spot of shopping, or catch some rays down on the beach. It’s only a short hop later this afternoon, as we cross over the Tweed River, into New South Wales. We check in at Byron Bay, a relaxed beach destination that melds fertile rainforest with endless beaches and an alternative culture vibe. So dump your bags at the accommodation and let’s go check it out! (B, L)

 

Day 21 Byron Bay

You’ve got a free day to explore Byron to your heart’s content. There’s plenty of activities on hand – adrenalin junkies can skydive, scuba or sea kayak their way across the landscape (all own expense), while others might like to catch some rays and relax beachside. Cultivate your artistic bent with a visit to the local galleries and craft shops, or just unwind at a cafe and people watch for a while. For those after healthier pursuits, take the scenic walk up to the lighthouse at Cape Byron and indulge in some potential dolphin* spotting along the way. The choice remains yours... (B) *Seasonal

 

Day 22 Byron Bay to Central Coast (Surfing)

Another short drive passing through Coffs Harbour (look for the Big Banana), Grafton and Ballina, is an extremely scenic journey and lands us here on to the Central NSW Coast. This will be the final instalment in our love-affair with heavenly Australian beaches. The pristine sands will hold your first surf lesson, before we take to the waves. If you’re not up for surfing, take some time to explore the lush landscape and meet some of the friendly wildlife. We’ll all meet up around the campfire tonight. (B)

 

Day 23 Central Coast to Sydney

Today we’ll start the day how locals do, with an early morning surf to get the blood pumping. All good surfers need a great lunch after the morning waves. Time to relax, and reflect back on the past days achievements on our afternoon journey to the big smoke of Sydney. Entering the city via the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge with spectacular views, we are sure that you will love this city as much as we do. Our East Coast trip draws to a close in the heart of the CBD where travellers will bid their farewells and continue on their own paths. (B)

 

A sleeping bag is required for camping in the Northern Territory. Bring your own or hire one locally for AUD$20. 

 

Please note this trip is made up of days 1-9 of the Rock N Top Reverse & days 1-14 of the Island Suntanner Reverse