In 15 Days, start your adventure with Australia's Galapagos, Kangaroo Island, and up-close wildlife encounters with Australia's native animals in their natural habitat; Enjoy Adelaide and the Barossa Valley wine country, the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest, and the stunning harbor city of Sydney. This daily departure independent trip includes flights, 4-4.5* accommodations, transfers, and small group tours. Itinerary customization and Air Upgrade options for Premium & business class are available.
Inclusions
- Roundtrip International Qantas Economy Class Flights from Los Angeles (domestic US flights can be added at an additional cost)
- Internal Australia flights
- Two nights in Adelaide at the 4* Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
- Two nights Kangaroo Island in 4* Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge including breakfast daily
- Two full days small group 4WD touring of Kangaroo Island including lunch
- Four nights in Port Douglas at the 4.5* Shantara Resort Port Douglas
- Full-Day Great Barrier Reef tour, including lunch
- Half-Day Daintree Rainforest & Aboriginal cultural tour
- Four nights in Sydney at the 4.5* Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney
- Half-day small group city sights of Sydney
- Sydney Harbour cruise
- Sydney Opera House tour
- Ferry transfers Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
- Private car service transfers in Adelaide & Sydney
- Shuttle airport transfers in Cairns
- All airport taxes & fuel surcharge
Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart US
Qantas is the number one way to travel to Australia, and your
vacation begins the second you step onboard a Qantas flight with
Australia, just a movie, meal, sleep away. With over 95 years of
experience in long-haul travel, Qantas strives to ensure every
passenger in every cabin has the most comfortable and authentic
experience. Qantas offers direct service from Los Angeles, San
Francisco & Dallas Fort Worth - addon fares with American
Airlines available from other cities.
The Qantas onboard experience has a class for every passenger from First suites, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins offering the best comfort, Australian food and wine, amenities, and exceptional service. In addition, all cabins experience the latest in-flight entertainment and technology, including premium content from HBO, new movie releases, TV programs, and an extensive music library with over 1500 entertainment choices
Day 2 - Cross International Dateline
Day 3 -
Arrive Adelaide
Welcome to Australia! On arrival in Adelaide, you will be met in
the arrivals hall by your driver and transferred by car service to
the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel.
South Australia’s capital city, Adelaide, is a vibrant hub buzzing with life, boasting great food and wine at more than 700 restaurants, cafes, and pubs, great retail therapy in Rundle Mall, and the “cultural boulevard” of North Terrace. It is home to Australia’s best museums and the South Australian Art Gallery. Everything is so close in Adelaide, with the beach just 20 minutes by tram from the city center and many of the state’s regions within two hours drive away. So enjoy a day at leisure and take in everything Adelaide has to offer.
ACCOMMODATION - The award-winning 4.5-star Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is only a short distance from the bars, restaurants, and shopping of Rundle Street. Guests have access to the rooftop garden with panoramic city views.
Day 4 -
Adelaide - Optional Tour: Barossa Valley wine
tour
Today consider adding an optional small group full day tour to the
Barossa Valley, cost $120 per person.
Explore some of the most beautiful and acclaimed wineries the Barossa Valley region has to offer. Begin the day at Chateau Yaldara, home to some of the finest Shirazes in the area and the best-preserved period architecture in the state. Continuing through the picturesque surroundings of the Barossa Valley, cross the iconic Jacobs Creek with time to explore the shops and attractions of the beautiful and historic township of Tanunda. Next, visit the renowned Peter Lehmann winery for a private tasting in the Four Songs room within their cellar door and sample some of the Barossa’s most internationally acclaimed vintages before enjoying a wonderful platter lunch. Then it’s on to Langmeil, one of the most visually stunning wineries in the region and home to the oldest known Shiraz vineyard in the world. Then, stopping to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Barossa from Mengler’s Hill Lookout, head onwards to the next and final wine-tasting experience at Lindsay Wines, fusing art, wine, and music into a joyous occasion that can’t be missed. Finally, complete the day with a trip through the beautiful Seppeltsfield region before returning to Adelaide.


Image: Tourism Australia
Day 5
– Adelaide - Kangaroo Island
Join your coach to commence a two-day Highlights of Kangaroo Island
tour. Journey south through the rolling hills along the Fleurieu
Peninsula coastline to Cape Jervis to board the Sealink catamaran
for crossing to Kangaroo Island. Upon arrival on Kangaroo Island,
be met by your guide, where the island nature experience begins
with an introduction to Kangaroo Island. Tour through several
differing island habitats and see wildlife in its natural
environment. The island is a haven for Australian wildlife, which
exists in its natural habitat without the threat of introduced
predators. At Seal Bay, the guide will escort you on a memorable
walk along the beach, home to a healthy sea lion colony. Walk among
the sea lions as they bask on the beach or among the sand dunes
after their extensive fishing expedition. With your guide, you can
stand at a safe distance from these endangered creatures and can
hear them sigh and watch them play. Enter an exclusive
heritage-listed natural bush property to enjoy a gourmet picnic
lunch with a pleasant bushwalk or beach stroll afterward. Next,
travel through the island’s interior, keeping an eye out for
koalas and echidnas. Explore the spectacular beaches of the north
coast and take a bushwalk. Listen for Australia’s rarest
cockatoo, the Kangaroo Island glossy black cockatoo, and watch for
the Tammar wallaby in its natural habitat. Later in the afternoon,
as the day draws to a close, see the kangaroos leave the safety of
the bush to begin grazing on the open pastures.


Image: Tourism Australia
Day 6 -
Kangaroo Island
Travel to the western section of the island today and discover the
remarkable Flinders Chase National Park, one of the oldest and most
important national parks in South Australia. The park incorporates
almost 20 percent of the island, and much of it is a Wilderness
Protection Area, home to a variety of fauna and flora unique to
Kangaroo Island. Enjoy the opportunity to walk through the park
searching for kangaroos, wallabies, and various birdlife. See some
of the 10,000 fur seals in their colony at Cape du Couedic and
discover the formation of the Remarkable Rocks. These large granite
boulders balance dramatically on the cliff edge, which plunges 75
meters below the turbulent Southern Ocean. At Admirals Arch, see
where the powerful forces of nature have cut through the headland
to create this natural geological formation. Enjoy a gourmet picnic
lunch served in a secluded bush setting. During the day, koalas can
be observed peacefully in their treetop habitat. Enter the Kelly
Hill Conservation Park to see kangaroos and other native wildlife
emerge from the safety of the bushland to graze on the open
plains.
Day 7 -
Kangaroo Island - Port Douglas
This morning you will be transferred to Kingscote airport by
shuttle service. Board your flight to Adelaide & connect to the
Tropical North Queensland and the city of Cairns. On arrival, meet
your shuttle transfer to Port Douglas (approximately 1.5 hours -
Upgrades to private car service available, ask an Aspire consultant
for the additional cost)


Image: Tourism Australia
ACCOMMODATION - Stay four fabulous nights at Shantara Resort & Spa, located 400 meters from Port Douglas' famous Four Mile Beach with its palm-fringed beach; relax or swim in the warm, calm waters. Take a stroll to Macrossan Street which offers an array of trendy gourmet restaurants, cafes, and boutique shopping to suit all tastes. With a choice of spacious studio rooms or sizeable comfortable one-bedroom self-contained apartments, Shantara is an adult haven, ideal for couples looking for a tranquil, romantic, and relaxing getaway.
Day 8 -
Great Barrier Reef Day Tour
This morning board your vessel at Crystal Brook Marina Port Douglas
to commence a full-day cruise. Travel aboard Silversonic, a
29-meter luxury catamaran custom-designed for small groups of
adventure-minded people to revel in the thrill of diving and
snorkeling. Silversonic features a state-of-the-art ride control
system for a super smooth journey, a submerged platform for easy
water access, hot freshwater showers, change rooms, air-conditioned
lounges, and a licensed bar. With over five hours to explore the
delights of this underwater world, snorkelers can explore three
different outer reef locations at Agincourt Reef, on the very outer
edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel briefs at each site and a
guided free snorkel tour are included in your day.
Day 9 -
Port Douglas – Daintree Rainforest Dreamtime Gorge
Walk
Experience the wonders of the World Heritage-listed Daintree
Rainforest and Aboriginal culture on this half-day tour.
NGANA JULAYMBA DUNGAY: “We All Going Daintree” tours are based around the Mossman, Mossman Gorge, coastal habitats & the Daintree River area. Discover the Kuku Yalanji people's environment, learn about different foods and medicines utilized from nature, sample some bush tucker, collect shellfish, and try traditional Aboriginal hunting practices. Have a go at boomerang and spear throwing and if you are lucky, catch a mud crab.Take a guided rainforest walk through the southern Daintree rainforest and visit the Mossman Gorge before being transferred back to Port Douglas.
**Optional Extra – Upgrade from a half-day to a full day tour for an additional $40 per person including lunch**
Day 10
- Port Douglas
Day 10 - Port Douglas Explore Tropical North Queensland at your
leisure or consider adding one of our tour options - Some of our
favorites (additional cost applies:
- Wildlife Habitat
The award-winning Wildlife Habitat is Australia's leading immersion exhibit - an open and interactive environment for guests and animals to mingle in a spacious and natural setting. Visitors wander along elevated boardwalks, observing up close a vast range of flora and fauna as birds fly and roam freely. The original Breakfast with the Birds has been a visitor must-do for two decades; be immersed within the Wetlands environment while enjoying the cacophony of sounds and colors of Wildlife as they wander freely amongst you while enjoying a tropical breakfast - Kuranda Scenic Rail & Sky rail
Enjoy a full day Kuranda, Scenic Rail, and Skyrail Tour. Board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a breathtaking journey on one of the world's most scenic train routes. The trip will take you through hand-hewn tunnels and across bridges with amazing views. Stop at Barron Gorge to view the Falls before arriving at beautiful Kuranda station. Your Kuranda Boarding Pass offers discounted entry into Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens, The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, and Rainforestation, as well as a detailed map of Kuranda - the Village in the rainforest. At the scheduled time, bypass the ticketing lines and go directly to the Skyrail boarding area to board Skyrail for the world's most beautiful rainforest experience. Glide over the rainforest canopy and take advantage of the two stops to enjoy a walk through the rainforest or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre. - Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation
Travel north along the scenic coastal road, crossing the Daintree River onto a guided boardwalk through the rainforest before continuing to Cape Tribulation Beach, where time is allowed for a beach walk or to relax in a tranquil setting. Enjoy a delicious lunch in a rainforest setting. Next, visit Alexandra Lookout for panoramic views out to sea and the mouth of the Daintree River, followed by a cruise to observe the fauna and flora of this region
Day 11
- Depart Port Douglas - Sydney
This morning you will be transferred by shuttle service to Cairns
Airport. Board your flight to Sydney. On arrival you will be met by
your driver for a car service transfer to the Amora Hotel Jamison
Sydney.
Blessed with a temperate climate, Sydney is Australia's favorite city with the world's most beautiful harbor. The harbor provides a playground for jet boating, sailing, swimming, harbor scenic flights, dining, fishing, climbing the harbor bridge, and sightseeing at the Opera House.


Image: Tourism Australia
ACCOMMODATION - Stay four nights in the Heart of Sydney; The Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney features stylish accommodations, along with a contemporary restaurant & bar, day spa, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, Wifi, and 24-hour room service. An easy walk to Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Queen Victoria Building, and only a few minutes from Wynyard train station make Amora one of Sydney's most desired locations.
Day 12 - Sydney - Half Day City Sights
tour
This morning you will be picked up from your hotel for your small
group Panoramic Sydney tour. Visit the historic Rocks area and hear
about early convict history. Enjoy magnificent views of the Opera
House and Harbour Bridge. See the city's shopping heart, Queen
Victoria Building, and Sydney Tower. Visit Sydney's trendy Oxford
Street district and travel through Paddington with its terrace
houses before arriving at the Pacific Ocean. See the magnificent
coast cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte. Travel on to famous
Bondi Beach and visit the beachfront promenade with time to enjoy a
coffee or cool drink (at your own cost). See Aussie lifesavers and
Sydney's best panoramic view at Dover Heights. Return to Sydney via
Double Bay, Kings Cross, and Mrs. Macquarie's Point for a final
magical viewpoint over the harbour before returning to the city
center. Tour concludes at Darling Harbour or Circular Quay.
Day 13 - Sydney - Explore Sydney
Harbour
Explore Sydney harbor onboard the Hop on Hop Off Sydney Harbour
Explorer. Travel aboard a 25-meter motorized Rocket Ferry vessel
and enjoy a fun and easy way to explore Sydney, including
commentary on selected routes. Then, sit back and relax as your
vessel cruises around Sydney Harbour and stops at six harbourside
attractions, including Circular Quay, Manly, Taronga Zoo, Watsons
Bay, Shark Island, and Darling Harbour. Then, hop off and reboard
as many times as you wish as you explore the best of Sydney!
This afternoon enjoy a one hour guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Opera House is one of the world's most recognizable landmarks, and this is your chance to truly get up close. Run your hands over the world-famous shell tiles, take a seat in the elegant custom-made white birch timber chairs, and marvel at the vaulted ceilings. Next, visit areas off-limits to the public and capture photographs from rare vantage points. Finally, explore theatres and foyers where more than 1600 concerts, operas, dramas, and ballets occur each year.
Day 14 - Optional tour: Sydney – Visit
the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains
Today consider adding an optional small group full day tour to the
Blue Mountains, costing $170 per person
This boutique tour provides an intimate touch, traveling in the luxury of minivan. Explore the Blue Mountains and see hidden locations and beautiful views of the region. From Echo Point, the closest and best view of the Three Sisters. You will be able to witness the blue haze and the vast expanse of the Jamison Valley and experience for yourself the raw magic the Blue Mountains create. This will be our first stop in the Blue Mountains, and you will have the option of ordering morning tea (At your own expense) while enjoying the amazing views. Visit Scenic World and dare yourself to ride the steepest Railway in the World. The Scenic Cableway and Skyway offer spectacular views of the Three Sisters and the Valley. Scenic World is included in the price of our tour. The Tour Guide will take you down to the valley floor whilst explaining the area. See breathtaking views of either the Jamison Valley or Megalong Valley away from the crowds in a secluded location. Visit Leura and enjoy the quaint village with multiple lunch venues (at your own expense). The last stop on the tour is Featherdale Wildlife Park,Sydney's ultimate wildlife experience. See the Koalas and feed the baby wallabies before returning to Sydney.
Day 15
- Depart Sydney
This morning you will be transferred by private car service to
Sydney International airport. Bid farewell to Australia as you
depart Sydney for your flight to the US, arriving the same day
request a quote or virtual appointment
Costing Per Person
Starting from | $4,999 |
Note: Daily departures, this package is an independent itinerary with flexible departures (not a group tour)
Single Supplement: From $1,299
Australian Entry Requirements
Before committing to a trip, please ensure you have a valid passport. Australia welcomes US travelers with an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia.
Read More about the Australian entry requirements
Additional departure gateways & pricing
Add on airfares are available from most major airports – please ask an Aspire consultant for a quote
Upgrade Options
- Upgrade to premium economy from $1,100 per person each way*
- Upgrade to business class from $4,000 per person each way* Can take the upgrade one way or round trip and combine premium/business classes on same ticket
* Upgrade from pricing based on Sunday through Wednesday departures from Los Angeles - ask an Aspire consultant for the upgrade fee from other departure points and travel Thursday through Saturday.
Terms & Conditions:
The package from pricing is based on double occupancy (2 people sharing a room) for low-season stays for travel Sundays through Wednesdays from Los Angeles. A $50 air supplement applies each way for international travel from Thursday to Saturday. Add-on fares are available from other cities. Specific blackout dates apply to the accommodation and tour value add offers. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight. Hotels are subject to availability. All prices reflect a discount for purchases made by check/wire; please see terms and conditions for credit card payments. Cancellation penalties and other restrictions apply.
To guarantee the package price & purchase the airline tickets, full payment is due at the time of booking. The purchase of travel Insurance is highly recommended for travel to Australia. Aspire Down Under partners with CSA Travel Protection. Travel insurance covers cancellation penalties under the cancellation benefit should you test positive for COVID-19 immediately before traveling to Australia. In the unlikely event your scheduled travel date is impacted by Australian government entry restrictions, Aspire Down Under will permit a change of travel dates within 12 months from your original booking date without any fees or penalties (the applicable price of the new trip itinerary will apply).