Australia Past and Present

Australia Past and Present

  • Independent travel
  • 19 days
  • Sydney to Melbourne
  • All year
  • Tour code AUPP

About this tour

This 19-day adventure, "Australia Past and Present," offers an unforgettable exploration of Australia's diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Starting in Sydney, you'll experience iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Blue Mountains, enriched with Aboriginal cultural tours. From there, journey to the Outback to marvel at the spiritual significance of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, followed by the breathtaking Kings Canyon. You'll continue to Alice Springs for a taste of desert life, and then to Darwin for extraordinary natural beauty and wildlife at Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Wrapping up in Port Douglas, the itinerary includes the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest before finishing in Melbourne with the Great Ocean Road and cultural city tours. It's an immersive blend of nature, history, and adventure designed to leave lasting memories.

Trip highlights

  • Sydney's Iconic Landmarks: Explore the Sydney Opera House, Blue Mountains, and Aboriginal culture through guided tours that offer a unique insight into local traditions.
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta: Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over these awe-inspiring formations, and learn about their spiritual significance to the Anangu people.
  • The Great Barrier Reef: Cruise to the pristine Agincourt Reef for snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant marine life in one of the world's most spectacular ecosystems.
  • Kakadu National Park: Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife, with cultural walking tours guided by Traditional Owners.
  • Daintree Rainforest: Traverse the world's oldest living rainforest with an Aboriginal guide, gaining insights into Indigenous history, bush tucker, and the unique ecosystem.
  • The Great Ocean Road: Marvel at the iconic Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and diverse wildlife while enjoying scenic views along this world-famous route.

Day by day

  1. Day 1 Sydney

    Welcome to Sydney, Wrapped around its majestic harbour, Sydney is the vibrant, cosmopolitan gateway to Australia. Australia's largest and oldest city, Sydney awes visitors with its natural beauty, picturesque cityscape, excellent dining and shopping precincts and some of the finest beaches in Australia. The beauty of Sydney is truly unrivalled, and the shining gem is its harbour. Crowned by the billowing sails of the Opera House, it truly is a sight to behold and with its small bays and inlets, it is one of nature's extraordinary creations. Sydney is a lively, vibrant and multicultural city brimming with culture, art and history. With so many things to see and do, it is the ultimate destination to visit at any time of year. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation for the following 3 nights.

    Overnight: Sydney
  2. Day 2 The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour & Bush Tucker Tour

    Located close to City Sydney transport Basic Aboriginal ceremonial greeting 90 minute leisurely walking tour Knowledgeable Aboriginal guides. Discover land use & practices from NATURE, such as how Aboriginal people know it's their birthday, Self Identity to family, Community and Nation via grandparents' & parents' landscape heritage. The tour is intimate, and spiritually enlightening about Sydney's seasonal environments. Locals or visitors in Sydney experience this coastal harbour environment through different eyes. This afternoon visit the Sydney Botanical Gardens, Walk with your First Nations guide through the Botanic Gardens to learn more about Indigenous bush foods and how these foods were used traditionally and adapted to the modern plate and palate. On your one-hour tour, you'll journey through the Cadi Jam Ora garden and learn about some of the hottest bush foods on the market right now, all while tasting some goodies for yourself.

    Overnight: Sydney Meals: Breakfast
  3. Day 3 Blue Mountains Day Tour

    After leaving the city behind our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide. Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous Three Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colours. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerised by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop briefly to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens our last stop, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4.30 - 5.00pm.

    Overnight: Sydney Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  4. Day 4 Sydney to Uluru ( Ayers Rock) Flight Not Included

    To travel to the heart of the continent is to encounter a land of wondrous extremes. The country appears harsh, yet it has been travelled and lived in for thousands of years. Out of the dunes and spinifex rise two stone formations - the immense monolith of Uluru and the domes of Kata Tjuta. Their scale and presence captivate the imagination of the thousands of visitors who travel to the region each year. Uluru rises 348 metres from the desert and has a girth of 9.4 kilometres and it is estimated that at least two-thirds of the Rock lies beneath the surface. The Rock changes colour depending on the time of day, cloud cover and even where you're standing. For the Anangu people, the traditional owners, these features are not simply natural wonders, but places of great spiritual importance. No matter how many pictures you've seen, nothing will prepare you for your first view of Uluru. Even from a distance, across the rich red plain, the power of its ancient spirit will overwhelm you. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation for the next 3 nights.

    Overnight: Uluru (Ayers Rock) Meals: Breakfast
  5. Day 5 Kata Tjuta Sunrise and Uluru Sunset Tours

    Revel in the early morning serenity of a truly spiritual place as the sunrise colours change on Kata Tjuta. Enjoy a picnic breakfast overlooking this Central Australian icon. Learn about this diverse environment whilst walking between the mighty conglomerate rock walls into Walpa Gorge. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls surrounding you. The spirituality of this fantastic location embraces everyone who ventures here.
    Come join your SEIT guide in your small group tour vehicle to explore Australia's most profound and culturally significant monolith. Embrace the culture, geology, and environment of Uluru. You will meander into Mutitjulu Waterhole, undertake the Mala Walk and visit rock art sites with your guide to learn of Uluru's significance to the Anangu (local Aboriginal) people. Adjourn to the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area where you will observe an uninterrupted sunset over Uluru with Kata Tjuta in the distance. Sip on chilled sparkling wine as the sun sets in the west.

    Overnight: Uluru (Ayers Rock)
  6. Day 6 Kings Canyon Excursion

    Travel from Ayers Rock Resort to Kings Canyon, stopping for breakfast at Kings Creek Station (included) along the way. Make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge at look-out points. Time permitting, you may choose to descend into the green oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'. The circuit walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder-strewn canyon floor. If you're doing the Creek Bed Walk, there's time for a scenic helicopter flight over the Canyon. After lunch at Kings Canyon Resort (own expense), return to Ayers Rock Resort.

    Overnight: Uluru (Ayers Rock)
  7. Day 7 Ayers Rock – Alice Springs

    At the very heart of Australia lies the historic town of Alice Springs - the pioneering gateway to a land of natural beauty, colourful outback culture, and ancient Dreamtime lore. The early history of Alice Springs is carefully preserved in several museums, and a visit to the School of the Air and Royal Flying Doctor Service reveals how services have been adapted to the remoteness of the region. Situated 462 kms from Ayers Rock/Uluru and positioned between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs makes both a perfect touring base and a genuinely special holiday destination.

    Overnight: Alice Springs
  8. Day 8 Alice Springs Desert Park with Shuttles

    You will be picked up from your accommodation in Alice Springs.
    Once you arrive at Alice Springs Desert Park, there is so much to see.
    We recommend taking in the:
    Nature Theatre Show (daily at 10 am in summer (1 November to 28 February) and daily at 10 am and 3.30 pm during winter (1 March to 31 October) Nocturnal House (open daily from 9 am to 6 pm) Survival in the desert presentation (daily at 11 am) Big-screen movie (trace four and a half billion years of the evolution of the Australian desert during this cinematic presentation) Dingo territory, kangaroos and aviaries.

    Overnight: Alice Springs
  9. Day 9 Alice Springs to Darwin Flight Not Included

    Darwin, Northern Territorys capital is a relaxed and multicultural city full of tropical charm. Surrounded on three sides by water, it is a quaint place steeped in history and full of unique, friendly people. The tropical climate encourages outdoor living and locals and visitors alike take advantage of this lifestyle to stroll through Darwin's leafy streets, browsing through art galleries, enjoying the cafe culture and discovering little hidden corners of the city. Beyond the dramatic sunsets, WW2 history and Asian-infused cuisine, Darwin makes for an adventurer's dreamland, set up as the perfect hub for exploring the wild side of NT.
    Upon arrival in Darwin, you will be transferred to your accommodation for the next 4 nights.

    Overnight: Darwin
  10. Day 10 Full Day Indigenous Litchfield Spectacular Tour

    Discover world-class beauty, fascinating pioneer heritage and rich Aboriginal tradition. Be inspired and refresh yourself at iconic waterfalls and spring-fed plunge pools. Experience dramatic, rugged stone country, woodland and monsoon forest. Get hands on as our expert guides demonstrate bush resources and foods. Enjoy a freshly cooked and beautifully presented lunch of quality local foods in lovely, shaded surrounds. Learn and benefit from expert guides with generations of family history, intimate stories and knowledge, and decades of experience as park rangers. Take home memories you'll never forget.

    Overnight: Darwin
  11. Day 11 Full Day Nitmiluk Gorge and Edith Falls Tour

    Leaving Darwin we travel south through tropical country, passing former WWII airstrips en route to Adelaide River. We make a short stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, a site dedicated to those killed in the air raids in Darwin in the 1940's. Continue to Edith Falls, where there is time for a refreshing swim in the paperbark and pandanas fringed waterhole beneath the falls (conditions permitting). After your included lunch, we join a 2 hour scenic cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park, with a chance to see freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the river and many interesting species of birdlife. Our cruise of the first two gorges takes us past sheer rock walls and requires a short walk to reach the second gorge. Enjoy a drive back through the township of Katherine, the hub of the region's cattle and farming industries. Travel via Pine Creek, an historic gold mining town, to our evening stop where you may purchase dinner at Emerald Springs (own expense) before returning to Darwin.

    Overnight: Darwin
  12. Day 12 Full Day Kakadu Wilderness Escape + Cultural Walking Tour

    We leave tropical Darwin travelling through the rich floodplains towards Kakadu National Park, this 20,000 square kilometre area is teeming with wildlife, important Aboriginal rock art sites, and diverse landscapes. Our first stop of the day allows us to be hands-on and learn from the Traditional Owners at Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours on Limilngan-Wulna land during a walking tour where you'll learn about bush tucker, bush medicine and be hands-on with rope tying. This spectacular area is home to numerous species of birds, turtles, water pythons and of course the iconic crocodile. We'll stop in at the Corroboree Park Tavern where you are able to support locals and purchase your lunch and snacks for the day ahead, and continue on to Bowali Visitor Centre to learn more about the rich Aboriginal culture and history of this special place. We'll visit the famous *Cahills Crossing in search of crocodiles at this eye-opening stretch of water, the only road access point between Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. Visit the home to some of the oldest and best-preserved rock art galleries in the world, Ubirr rock, and marvel and the amazing rock formations of the East Alligator region of Kakadu as it meets the West Arnhem plateau. Depending on seasonality and accessibility to Ubirr, we may instead visit Kakadu's other main rock art attraction at Nourlangie rock, traditionally also known as Burrungkuy, where we can marvel at the art along the shaded rock shelters, appreciate the colourful birdlife and hope to catch a glimpse of several species found no-where else on the planet.

    Overnight: Darwin
  13. Day 13 Darwin to Cairns (Flight Not Included) to Port Douglas

    You will be transferred to the airport to board your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival in Cairns, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Port Douglas.

    Overnight: Port Douglas
  14. Day 14 Full Day Ngana Kulkinga Dungay

    Spend the day with a local Aboriginal tour guide, travelling through Kuku Yalanji country and learning about the culturally significant sights and local attractions between Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation including World Heritage Daintree. Learn the amazing relationships the Kuku Yalanji still have with their land and experience these diverse environments. Get an insight in to the history, culture and traditions of the local Aboriginal people and the area. Walk through the world's oldest living rainforest, see natural wonders, the majestic Daintree river, where the rainforest meets the reef and coastal habitats learning about the environment, different foods and medicines utilized from nature, sample some bush tucker, swim at one of the pristine freshwater streams in the area before returning to your accommodation.

    Overnight: Port Douglas
  15. Day 15 Outer Barrier Reef Cruise

    Quicksilver takes you to Agincourt Reef, at the very outer edge of the Barrier Reef. Here, special reefs known as ‘ribbons' run parallel to the Continental Shelf. Adjacent to the Coral Sea trench, these ribbon reefs are recognised as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef's environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth, and supports spectacular marine life. As the region's outer reef pioneer, we chose the best location available to show you nature's finest.

    Overnight: Port Douglas
  16. Day 16 Port Douglas to Cairns to Melbourne

    Today, you will be transferred to the Cairns Airport and will take a flight to Melbourne.

    Overnight: Melbourne
  17. Day 17 Lane and Arcades Tour and Aboriginal Heritage Walk

    The original laneways walk. Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne with this immersive tour, guided by passionate local hosts. Embrace the city's unique blend of history, culture, and creativity, where every turn reveals something new. Whether you're a curious visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to Melbourne's soul. Spend a few leisurely hours with us and discover the magic of Melbourne. Finish with a one course lunch and a glass of local wine in a Melbourne hotspot (unaccompanied).

    Journey into Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, a significant cultural site for the local Kulin Nation, with a First Nation People(s) guide. Gain insight into the rich history and thriving culture of the First Peoples of Australia through a journey of identifying significant native plants within the Gardens. Learn about Aboriginal plant uses, customs and ongoing connection to Country.

    Overnight: Melbourne
  18. Day 18 Great Ocean Road

    An experience like no other, come explore the spectacular Great Ocean Road with Oceania24.
    Sit back and relax as you enjoy the wonders of this world-famous touring route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots and of course koalas and kangaroos along the way. Your camera will get a good workout along this exciting journey where we will stop for plenty of photo opportunities. Stop at the quaint seaside town of Apollo Bay and stroll along the magnificent beach and enjoy a bite to eat (own expense). Enjoy a stroll through pristine forests, before arriving at the star attraction of our day, the spectacular Twelve Apostles, one of the most iconic natural formations in the world; as well as infamous Loch Ard Gorge, along the wild and unpredictable Shipwreck Coast, before returning to Melbourne.

    Overnight: Melbourne
  19. Day 19 Melbourne Departure

    Farewell. End of services.

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What's included

  • 18 nights of accommodation in your selected category.
  • Airport Transfers in each destination.
  • Sydney Rocks Aboriginal Tour.
  • Bush Tucker Tour in the Sydney Botanical Garens.
  • Blue Mountains Small Group Adventure.
  • Kata Tjuta Sunrise Tour.
  • Uluru Sunset Tour.
  • Transportation between Ayers Rock and Alice Springs.
  • Desert Park Entrance with shuttles.
  • Litchfield National Park Tour.
  • Katherine Gorge Tour.
  • Kakadu National Park Guided Tour.
  • Outer Barrier Reef Cruise.
  • Full Day Ngana Kulkinga Dungay Tour.
  • Lanes and Arcades Tour.
  • Aboriginal Heritage Walk.
  • Great Ocean Road Tour.

What's not included

  • International & Domestic Flights – Airfare to/from Australia is not included.
  • Meals & Drinks – Most meals (except specified ones, such as the lunch on Kangaroo Island) are at your own expense.
  • Travel Insurance – Strongly recommended but not included in the package.
  • Fuel Costs – While car rental is provided, petrol expenses are the traveler’s responsibility.
  • Optional Activities & Entrance Fees – Any excursions not listed in the itinerary, such as seal-watching cruises or additional wildlife encounters.
  • Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, shopping, and incidental costs at hotels.
  • Parking & Road Tolls – Potential additional costs while driving.
  • Visa Fees – If required for entry into Australia.
  • Additional Accommodation – Any extra nights before or after the tour dates.
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Frequently asked questions

Tour Questions

What is included in the Australia Past and Present tour package?

This 19-day independent tour includes 18 nights of accommodation in your selected category, airport transfers in each destination, and a range of guided excursions and tours such as the Sydney Rocks Aboriginal Tour, a Bush Tucker Tour in the Sydney Botanical Gardens, a Blue Mountains Small Group Adventure, Kata Tjuta Sunrise and Uluru Sunset tours, an Alice Springs Desert Park entrance with shuttles, a Litchfield National Park Tour, a Katherine Gorge Tour, a Kakadu National Park Guided Tour, an Outer Barrier Reef Cruise, a Full Day Ngana Kulkinga Dungay Tour, a Lanes and Arcades Tour, an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, and a Great Ocean Road Tour.

What expenses and costs are not included in the tour price?

Excluded from the base package are international and domestic flights (airfare to/from Australia and regional flights like Sydney to Uluru, Alice Springs to Darwin, and Darwin to Cairns are not included), most meals and drinks (at your own expense), travel insurance, fuel costs, optional activities and entrance fees, personal expenses, parking and road tolls, visa fees, and additional accommodations before or after the tour dates.

How much does the tour cost and what departure dates are available?

Pricing starts from $6,399 CAD per person based on double occupancy for moderate accommodation, and $7,299 CAD per person for superior accommodation. The tour is available all year round.

Where does the tour start and end?

This 19-day journey starts in Sydney, New South Wales, and concludes in Melbourne, Victoria.

What are the key destinations and locations visited on this itinerary?

The itinerary visits Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Alice Springs, Darwin, Port Douglas, and Melbourne.

What are the major highlights and included excursions?

Major highlights include exploring Sydney's iconic landmarks and the Blue Mountains, witnessing sunrises and sunsets over Uluru and Kata Tjuta, cruising the Outer Great Barrier Reef at Agincourt Reef, discovering ancient rock art and wildlife in Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, exploring the world's oldest living rainforest in Daintree with an Aboriginal guide, and driving the famous Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles.

What is the official tour code for this trip?

The unique administrative tour code assigned to this specific journey is AUPP.

What is the travel style of this tour?

This is an Independent tour, offering a private trip on a date of your choice with customizable activities and accommodation levels ranging from comfortable moderate to superior options.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This tour has a moderate level of physical demand, featuring walking tours, outdoor nature walks, and some rocky climbs (such as at the Blue Mountains or Kings Canyon rim). Travelers should review daily activities and discuss any mobility restrictions with their booking agent beforehand.

How can I reserve my spot or get further assistance for this trip?

You can view available dates and pricing online, click "Inquire" to connect with a travel specialist, or contact Anderson Vacations directly by phone at 1-866-814-7378 for personalized assistance and custom quotes.

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