Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of Australia. If your idea of meeting the locals is falling in love with koalas, feeding kangaroos, and fooling around with a school of clownfish, then this is the vacation for you. Animal lovers unite on this spectacular safari tour of Australia. From Brisbane’s Australia Zoo, “Home of the Crocodile Hunter,” to Alice Spring’s Kangaroo Sanctuary, “Home of the Kangaroo Dundee,” you’ll get to know the most captivating creatures and characters who live down under. The furry fun continues with a hop over to Melbourne to witness Phillip Island’s famous heart-warming Penguin Parade. Wombats and wallabies welcome you to the island state of Tasmania, as does the infamous Tasmanian devil—in its own unique way. Going below the surface, this in-depth tour of Australia also leads you to the marine life at the Great Barrier Reef, the whales, seals, and dolphins off the Tasman Peninsula, and the city and harbors of sunny Sydney.
Did you know the koala sleeps an average of 20 hours a day? Why not add three nights in Fiji to your tour of Australia and curl up in a beachside hammock yourself? Between naps, you’ll enjoy a Sigatoka River Safari and the sun, fun, and genuine warmth of the islanders. A Small Group Discovery tour that’s above the rest down under!
Your Small Group Discovery tour begins!
Your hotel room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule flights to arrive by 4pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Koalas, Crocs & Roos, Oh My!
Start your day with an orientation tour of the city. See the mix of historical building and modern high-rises. Afterward, travel to the Australia Zoo, “Home of the Crocodile Hunter” where you’ll see some of Australia’s famous wildlife. You can hand-feed kangaroos, pet a dingo, see the amazing saltwater crocodiles, and more. Return to Brisbane where the evening is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
LOCAL FAVORITE
CONSERVATION HEROES Go behind-the-scenes for a look at Australia Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital. Founded by Steve and Terri Irwin, it is home to amazing work being done by an extraordinary team of veterinarians. All proceeds from your included visit directly benefit the hospital to help provide specialized care to wildlife. Whether it’s a kangaroo hit by a car, a flying fox entangled in a fence, or a sea turtle that has ingested plastic, the team at the Wildlife Zoo are dedicated to returning them back into the wild.
Bountiful Brisbane
A full day to explore more of vibrant Brisbane.
Meals: Breakfast
ENHANCED FREE TIME
ENCHANCED
EXPLORE MORE in Brisbane with a scenic cruise on the Brisbane River, relaxing at Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach, or just taking a stroll on Queen Street Mall, full of shops and restaurants. For a little more activity, join an optional excursion to Tangalooma Island where you can swim and snorkel among shipwrecks. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Moreton Island & Tangalooma Ship Wrecks ($)
Throw your swimwear into a bag and set sail to Moreton Island, a world-renowned destination for encountering dolphins, dugong, turtles, and shipwrecks.
Sights & Seas
Depart Brisbane for Cairns, “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.” Upon arrival. an orientation tour shows the highlights of the city. Later, visit the Cairns Aquarium. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
OCEAN STUDIES Touted as Australia’s newest aquarium, the Cairns Aquarium won’t disappoint. Journey through the waterways from freshwater rivers flowing through the rainforest, into the mangroves and finally into the depths of the Great Barrier Reef. Discover 71 different exhibits showcasing this regions extremely rare and unique species. Enjoy animal presentations, habitat talks, and daily shark feeds. It will be a great introduction for your experience on the Reef tomorrow.
Below the Surface
Prepare for the experience of a lifetime when you board a catamaran and cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore this underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope beneath the surface. Return to Cairns where your evening is at leisure. Tonight, you may want to visit the Cairns Night Markets, the perfect place to find a favourite souvenir or try some local fare.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
BUCKET LIST. CHECK! The only living structure on Earth that can be seen from space, the Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of Mother Nature comprising over 3,000 individual reefs and spanning over 135,135 miles (350,000 square kilometers), your day at the Reef will be one to remember. After your scenic catamaran cruise, the day is yours to explore the Reef how you like. Choose to snorkel amid dazzling fish and coral, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, attend an informative presentation by a marine biologist, or just relax and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings.
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight ($)
Enjoy the exhilaration of flying over the 8th Wonder of the World - The Great Barrier Reef. You've seen the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from below, now get ready to see if from a whole new angle! Flying low over the reef, your pilot will show you the wonders that live beneath the sea as you search for sea turtles, manta rays and dugong (an aquatic mammal). You will marvel at the sheer size of coral displays that form part of the Great Barrier Reef. The scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef lasts approximately 10 minutes.
Aussie Adventures
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore more of Cairns.
Meals: Breakfast
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Cairns with a 4 wheel-drive excursion into the Daintree Rainforest, soar high on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, or stroll Cairns’ famous Esplanade home to shops and art galleries, or just sit back and relax at your resort’s pool. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail
Tropical North Queensland awaits on this memorable day trip that combines the scenic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the world-famous Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Rock Stars
Today, fly to the Red Center of Australia and visit Ayers Rock, a UNESCO world Heritage Site, known also by its Aboriginal name, Uluru. Visit the “Sunset Strip” for a drink and to witness the changing shades of the rock.
Meals: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS A spectacular way to end the day. Travel out to Uluru. This fascinating icon stands 1,141 feet/348 meters high, however, most of its mass is below ground level. You’ll be overwhelmed by its incredible size, presence, and inherent spirituality. As the sun sinks over the horizon and the evening sky brings out the many changing hues for which Uluru is famous, you’ll enjoy sparkling wine and nibbles and say goodbye to another wonderful day.
Into the Outback
Today, travel through the heart of the Outback to Alice Springs. At dusk, visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
LOCAL FAVORITE
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE First established in 2005, the Kangaroo Sanctuary rescues orphaned baby kangaroos and adult kangaroos. It along with its founder, Chris “Brolga” barns, otherwise known as “Kangaroo Dundee,” has been featured on the BBC and National Geographic channels. Your small group will be treated to a leisurely walk through the reserve to learn about the “roos,” and have a chance to get up close to these amazing animals, a treasured symbol of Australia. You’ll quickly experience the Sanctuary’s motto, “Animals come first.”
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Ayers Rock Sunrise Camel Ride ($)
Experience the Red Centre the Australian way! In the company of an expert local guide, head out into the fresh morning air for a peaceful, one-hour camel ride through the red sand dunes of the Outback.
Specialties of South Australia
Sightseeing this morning includes a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Old Telegraph Station. Fly to Adelaide in South Australia. Upon arrival, take a brief orientation tour along the wide, tree-lined streets and well-manicured gardens.
Meals: Breakfast
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE This evening, check out a local restaurant and the exceptional gourmet food and wine scene that is flourishing in South Australia. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) was established in 1928 to bring much needed medical care to the residents of the remote Outback. Learn the history of Reverend John Flynn, the founder, and hear the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the RFDS. Through the interactive displays you can experience what it’s like to fly with an RFDS pilot and the issues they have faced from dirt runways, inadequate maps, and more.
A Walk in the Park
Early this morning, depart Adelaide and travel by motorcoach and ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders Chase National Park, a sanctuary for native Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Stop for a walk on Remarkable Rocks, with stunning views of the sea. Next, visit Admirals Arch, a unique rock formation and home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals. Return to Adelaide late this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
THE WILD SIDE The stunning views of the Australian sea lion colony and the neighbouring coastline make Seal Bay an essential experience on Kangaroo Island. There are no enclosures or cases at Seal Bay. Instead, you will be taken into the heart of the colony on a private tour with a Park Ranger. You’ll learn how these endangered animals hunt, surf, rest, interact with their pups and defend their territory. This is a truly exception wildlife experience not to be missed. Keep your camera handy for some terrific photo ops!
Cosmopolitan Cool
Today, head to the cosmopolitan heart of Australia, Melbourne, home to beautiful gardens, restaurants, cafes and hidden arcades and laneways. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Your sightseeing tour includes Melbourne’s legendary landmarks such as Federation Square, Parliament House, the Shrine of Remembrance, Queen Victoria Market, and a stroll through Fitzroy Gardens.
Wild by Nature
After time at leisure this morning, travel to Phillip Island and experience breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, scenic coasts and crashing ocean waves. Your first stop is the Koala Conservation Centre where you’ll have the chance to see koalas up close in their natural habitat. Then it’s on to the famous Penguin Parade. Return to Melbourne this evening.
Wild by Nature
NOTE: Penguins have sensitive eyes and bright, sudden, or unusual light can be frightening or disorientate a penguin. To ensure penguins keep coming back to this special area, cameras, camcorders, or camera phones are not permitted during the penguin parade.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
LOCAL FAVORITE
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE The day’s highlight is the famed Penguin Parade where you’ll experience the magic of little penguins returning home at sunset to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia. Watch as these beloved fairy penguins waddle from the ocean to their burrows in the sand around you. Your small group enjoys up close and personal views from the special Penguins Plus grandstand. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip!
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Melbourne Skydeck & Edge Experience ($)
Nothing will prepare you for this awesome, bird's-eye view of Melbourne! Partake in a unique experience that will get your heart racing as you step out 984 feet above the ground (that's almost as high as the Eiffel Tower). The Melbourne Skydeck 88 takes you right to The Edge, a special glass cube observation deck that slides out from the building with you inside! It's a city view you'll never forget!
Vineyards & Views
Today is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
ENCHANCE FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Melbourne with a trip to the top of the Eureka Skydeck for amazing views of the city below. You may also choose to venture to the breathtaking Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Other options include a walking tour of the city’s hidden laneways or a full-day trip to the Great Ocean Road to see fantastic scenery and the “Twelve Apostles.” This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour ($)
Discover just what makes Melbourne so enchanting on this excursion that reveals the city's hidden gems. We'll pair you up with a passionate expert guide for a casual stroll through the city's back streets and beautiful old lanes and arcades.
Yarra Valley Food & Wine Day Tour ($)
Discover the flavors of the Yarra Valley on a full-day food and wine tour. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply would like to spend the day surrounded by beautiful, off-the-beaten-path scenery, this is the perfect day trip from Melbourne.
The Great Ocean Road ($)
On this full day tour, you'll experience this majestic coastal drive in style, with time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world famous route.
Tasmanian Treasures
Journey to Tasmania, once known as “Van Diemen’s Land.” Visit an ice creamery where you’ll have a chance to sample one of the 24 local varieties. Later this visit Cradle Mountain National Park, featuring a presentation by a local expert.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
LOCAL FAVORITE
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE Cradle Mountain National Park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area, home to towering mountains, ancient rainforests, and abundant wildlife. It is home to Tasmania’s highest mountain, unusual endemic species, and ancient aboriginal history. Tonight, be treated to a presentation on the park by a local expert. Learn about the park’s history, the famous Overland Track, and learn tips on spotting the wildlife of the park including wallabies, echidnas, pademelons, local bird species and more.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Sleep tight in the heart of Tasmania's northwest highlands with a stay at the cozy and comfortable Cradle Mountain Hotel. This small property packs a punch as the perfect place to unwind amid the alpine woodland wilderness as your home away from home.
Wombats & Wilderness Wonders
Today is spent exploring the beauty of Cradle Mountain National Park. Sightseeing includes a visit to the Ronny Creek Boardwalk, an easy walk to take in the fresh air, scenic views, and the chance to spot wombats, the chubby little creatures who call this part of the park home. Then travel to Dove Lake set beneath the towering spires of Cradle Mountain. There’s time to admire the scenery, snap photos, and for those that wish, take the walking trail around the lake for a full perspective (approximately 3.7 miles/6km). This afternoon is yours to explore the park at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner
LOCAL FAVORITE
DEVILISH FUN! This evening, enjoy a behind-the-scenes visit to Devils@Cradle, a unique sanctuary concentrating primarily on the Tasmanian devil. A specialist will discuss biology, behaviour, threats, and the important work being done to save these vulnerable animals. Then, you’ll observe the amazing nighttime antics of these animals being fed. It won’t take you long to see how the fierce Tassie devil got its name!
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with a visit to the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery dedicated to Tasmanian artists, or just relax at your hotel and take in the spectacular surroundings of this natural environment.
Tradition in Tasmania
Travel through the rolling hills and farm fields of Tasmania to the capital city of Hobart. As the second oldest of Australia’s state capitals, Hobart has a wild convict past and a rich history still evident in its beautifully restored Georgian buildings and colonial cottages. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation tour which highlights this charming waterfront city. This evening is at leisure for you to explore on your own.
Meals: Breakfast
Historic Highlights
After breakfast, head to the Tasman Peninsula home to natural beauty and convict history. Take a cruise and then visit the Port Arthur Historic Site for a guided tour. Return to Hobart where your evening is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
LOCAL FAVORITE
SCENIC WONDERS Wild and remote, the Tasman Peninsula has one of the most dramatic coastlines in Australia. On your Tasman Island cruise, see waterfalls, rock formations, archways, and deep-sea caves, along with the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. At any time, you’re likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets and albatross or a pod of playful dolphins surfing the bow waves of the boat. Keep your camera handy for a chance to spot whales, seals, and other wildlife.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY LESSONS One of the country’s most important heritage sites, Port Arthur will bring to life Australia’s convict history. On your private guided tour, meet some of the people who have passed through this place, walk in their footsteps, and hear their stories. It was not just hardened criminals but women and children who found their way here as well. See 30 historic buildings, ruins, restored homes, and the beautiful heritage gardens.
Spectacular Sydney
Today brings you to Sydney, Australia’s largest city and considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s home to first-class restaurants, grand shopping arcades, and top tourist attractions. Sightseeing includes a visit to the famous Sydney Opera House and a visit to the botanic gardens for great photo opportunities and sweeping views of the harbor and Harbour Bridge. Arrive at your centrally located hotel for a 3-night stay.
Meals: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The Sydney Opera House is one of the most well-known buildings in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building was designed by Jorn Utzon, a Danish architect, and was finally completed in 1973, after sixteen years of construction, at a cost of over $100 million dollars. You’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the Opera House and see its interiors and stages. Hear untold stories, be awed by the acoustics, and learn the history and future of this amazing hall beneath the sails.
Surf, Sky & Sights
Today is at leisure to explore all that Sydney has to offer.
Meals: Breakfast
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Sydney with an optional excursion to experience one of Sydney’s famous beaches, Bondi Beach, where a local surf instructor will give you a tour of the lifesaving club and teach you how to surf. You can also choose to see the city from a different view from atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. Enjoy amazing views of the harbor and city skyline below from this unique perspective. In the evening, you might want to walk in the footsteps of Australia’s early convicts on the Rocks Pub Tour. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
While we include select excursions and must-see sights on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Below is a selection of excursions that may be available for purchase on your tour.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb ($)
Get ready for the climb of your life! This exhilarating excursion at the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is a unique way to enjoy incredible views of the city and its beautiful harbor.
Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour ($)
Join us for a full day excursion to the famed Blue Mountains, a journey into the heart of a unique UNESCO World Heritage Region.
Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise ($)
Grab your camera and step aboard for a sumptuous lunch and a relaxing cruise around the famous Sydney Harbour.
The Rocks Pub Tour ($)
Walk in the footsteps of Australia's early convicts, mischievous gangs and locals of the past, as you share a drink in four of Sydney's oldest pubs. A unique, fun tour that highlights the history, stories, and characters that helped shaped Sydney.
Celebration in Sydney
Another day for you to explore Sydney. Tonight, join your Tour Director and companions for a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant. The perfect ending to your Australian Safari.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE You may wish to visit the elegant Queen Victoria Building with its three levels of fashion, jewellery, and gifts. Other options including visiting the Art Gallery of New South Wales, taking a ferry to nearby Manley Beach, or enjoying delicious Asian food at one of the restaurants in Spice Alley.
Island Bound!
Board your flight and fly to Fiji for three nights in this tropical paradise. Composed of more than 300 islands, you are sure to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and friendly Fijians. From white sandy beaches to tropical rainforests and mountain peaks, there is lot to explore on land as well in the water. Fiji is known as the Soft Coral Capital of the world with the Great Astrolabe Reef surrounding its islands and atolls. Arrive in Nadi and transfer to your resort on the Coral Coast. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Coasting & Cruising
This morning, cruise up the magnificent Sigatoka River to visit an authentic Fijian village. Return to your resort where the remainder of the day is yours to explore the beautiful beaches or perhaps sample some local cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Aboard a custom-built safari jet boat, you’ll be transported deep into the heart & soul of Fiji. As you journey up the river, hear the history of the region. Children from the villages that line the river and wave as you cruise past. When you reach the village, you are given a warm welcome by the villagers and then are escorted to the village Chief’s bure (house) or to the community hall. Take part in a kava ceremony, then tour the village before sitting down to a traditional Fijian lunch. Your visit ends with traditional Fijian singing and dancing. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to join in! After heartfelt goodbyes, board your jet boat for the return trip. It’s sure to be a highlight of your time in Fiji. Bula!
Living on Island Time
Today is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with daily activities offered at your resort. You may wish to take a dip in the pool, enjoy a Fijian handicraft demonstration, spend some time in the water with kayaks or paddleboards, or simply enjoy an amazing sunset with a cool drink. An underwater adventure should be high on your to-do list and will not disappoint. Your Local Host will have suggestions for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Until We Meet Again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Meals: Breakfast