Outback Walkabout
ITINERARY

1-5
Palm Cove
Beach
The day of your mission around Australia is here at last! Once you touch down in Cairns, it's off to pick up your rental car ready to explore this beautiful region. As you make your way to your Studio Suite in Palm Cove, you'll drive down the famous Captain Cook Highway Drive, where you'll see the rainforest and coastal vistas aplenty. Once you arrive, take some time to recoup from your epic journey, and check in to the Reef Retreat.

After a good night's rest, head out to see the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Here you'll stroll by ancient, giant trees and keep your eyes peeled for the majestic cassowary bird. Bit of a thrill-seeker? Go ziplining and see the forest from another perspective. You might even see some animals up in the canopy of the trees.

On your last full day in Palm Cove take a cruise out to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef. Spend your day snorkeling, diving, fishing and enjoy a delicious lunch on board. There's also plenty of time for cruising, including a visit to the Low Isles.

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6-9
Ayers Rock (Uluru)
Activity & Adventure
Today you're jetting off to Ayers Rock Airport, where you'll pick up your 4WD and head to the mighty Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. The landscape here consists of ranges and gorges all speckled with flora and fauna. You'll be staying at Kings Creek Station, the biggest exporter of camels in Australia.

Get a good night's sleep at the King's Canyon Retreat, as the next day you'll be up with the sunrise ready for a day of hiking. Experienced walkers will enjoy the 21km Giles Track you can undertake from Kings Canyon to Kathleen Springs, with camping along the way. For a shorter but still intense route follow the Kings Canyon rim track which is 6km. Take your time and enjoy the unique sights as you go.

The following day you'll enjoy an Uluru Base Walk, one of the best ways to admire the famous monolith up close. Over 9.4km you'll go around the base and pass waterholes, trees and hidden caves. In the evening enjoy a 'Sounds of Silence' experience where you'll watch the sunset over Uluru and dine under a starlit outback sky. At night, listen to the didgeridoo and learn about stars from the resident star talker.

On your last full day in Uluru, you'll spend the afternoon on the Valley of The Winds Walk near Kata Tjuta. After another intense walk, spend your last night in the outback relaxing and soaking up the star-studded sky.

 

10
Brisbane
City
After another unforgettable sunrise at Uluru, it's on to the buzzing city of Brisbane. Pick your car up from the airport and head to the Next Hotel, where you might like to take some time to relax. The next few days are full-on so taking it easy with some relaxing city exploring; why not head to the Southbank area to people watch and enjoy a lovely dinner.

 

11-14
Fraser Island
Activity & Adventure
Today you're off to Hervey Bay, known as the gateway to Fraser Island which is the largest sand island in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's the only place in the world where rainforest grows on sand and is filled with freshwater dune lakes. Plus, its waters are free of crocodiles and jellyfish, making it the perfect place for a swim. On your way to Hervey Bay, stop along the Sunshine Coast at Noosa with its beautiful Everglades and the Great Sandy National Park. You'll spend a night at the Mantra Hervey Bay - rest up - you're off on a three-day hike tomorrow!

After a 45-minute ferry, it's time to hike Fraser Island. You'll walk around 8.5 miles each day and arrive each night to a lovely dinner prepared for you. During the days' hike, there is plenty of time to swim in the lakes, take in the scenery and enjoy lunch. After your first night camping under the stars of Fraser Island, it's time for day two of the hike. Today you might spot dingoes and you'll finish up at the stunning Lake McKenzie where you might like to cool down. Wake up to catch the sunrise, then it's time for your last hike on Fraser Island. After an intense morning walk, you'll spend the afternoon relaxing before heading back to Hervey Bay to recover.

 

15-17
Brisbane
City
Your trip concludes in Brisbane, the vibrant capital city of Queensland. With its subtropical climate and good looks, this city is also a hub for culture and the arts. Visit the Culture Centre to see art exhibitions, learn more at The Queensland Museum and Science Centre or catch some live music at Fortitude Valley.

If you've got the energy to spare, you might like to explore the city more by kayaking down the Brisbane River. Or why not give your body a rest with a gentle river cruise instead? Either way, a picnic at Kangaroo Point is a great way to enjoy views over the city and its natural surroundings. If it's greenery you're after, head to the Botanic Garden or takes a trip out to the Colmslie Beach Reserve.