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Australia

Budget Tours From Melbourne

3 Day Grampians & Great Ocean Road Safari

Day 1 - Melbourne to the Grampians NP
Today we head up to the Grampians NP, one of the worlds oldest and most spectacular mountain ranges. We pass through the charming township of Beaufort where we enjoy a complimentary morning tea. After a short stop in Halls Gap for lunch (own expense) we hike and explore the Grampians NP including MacKenzie Falls and view wildlife in its natural habitat. We finish the day with sunset views from The Balconies and Reeds Lookout. Overnight in the Grampians. (D)

Day 2 - Grampians NP to Princetown via the Great Ocean Road
Start the morning with a challenging hike to the 'Pinnacle', exploring the natural wonders and breathtaking views this national park has to offer, before heading south to the coast and Warrnambool for a chance to view whales (seasonal). The renowned Great Ocean Road beckons for us to explore its beauty. You will see the Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Loch Ard Gorge before enjoying sunset over the Twelve Apostles. Stay overnight in the coastal township of Princetown. (B D)

Day 3 - Princetown to Melbourne
We take the Gibson Steps down to the beach for another look at the Twelve Apostles and then spend time at the Otway Fly (a 25 meter high elevated tree top walk). Continuing on we pass through the magnificent cool temperate rainforests of the Otway National Park and onto the coastal township of Apollo Bay where we break for lunch. Hugging the coastline we pass through Lorne, stop in search of Koalas, visit world famous Bells Beach and take a shopping break at Torquay; home of Quicksilver and Rip Curl. After clearing the shops of bargains we continue on to Melbourne arriving early evening. (B)

:: Tour Prices
1st April 2006 - 31 March 2007
AU$345 Adult
Two night accommodation upgrade* Double /Twin $75 pp , Single $165
plus $10 fuel levy

1st April 2007- 31 March 2008
Adult: AU$365, Child: AU$290
Two night accommodation upgrade* Double /Twin $65 pp Single $150
+ $10 fuel levy

Departs Melbourne 8.15am
Apr, Sep-Mar: Wed, Fri, Sun
May-Aug: Wed, Sun

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera/film and money for lunches

15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guides, meals as indicated, two nights hostel dorm accommodation (or upgrade to double), National Park entry fees, entry to Otway Fly Tree Top Walk.

3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Safari

Day 1 - Melbourne via Great Ocean Rd to Princetown
We begin our journey travelling through Geelong before stopping at Torquay (home of Quicksilver and Rip Curl) where you can pick yourself up a bargain, before making our way to the world famous Bell’s Beach. Here we commence our journey on the renowned Great Ocean Road, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Australia, calling into the seaside towns of Lorne & Apollo Bay exploring pristine beaches, gorges and the magnificent cool temperate rainforest of the Otway NP. We spend time at the awesome Otway Fly, (25 metre high elevated tree top walk) and explore Loch Ard Gorge before enjoying sunset at the Twelve Apostles. Tonight we stay in the coastal village of Princetown. (D)

Day 2 - Princetown to Grampians NP
View sunrise over the Twelve Apostles then take the Gibson Steps down to the beach for a different perspective of this amazing formation. Continuing along the western end of the Great Ocean Road we visit London Bridge, The Grotto, Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands before arriving at Warrnambool for a chance to view whales (seasonal). Travelling on through country Victoria, we arrive at the magnificent Grampians NP, where we accept the challenge of a hike to the Pinnacle. We finish the day with a walk to The Balconies & Reeds Lookout before arriving at our overnight accommodation in the Grampians.(B,D)

Day 3 - Halls Gap to Adelaide
Today we spend the morning hiking to the bottom of MacKenzie Falls & Hollow Mountain for breathtaking views over the north of the Grampians before leaving this magical place. Travelling west, we break for lunch at Horsham then continue through the agricultural district of Victoria, into South Australia and Bordertown, home of the rare White Western Grey Kangaroos. We cross the mighty Murray River, then pass through the picturesque Adelaide Hills arriving into the city of Adelaide. (B)

:: Tour Prices
1st April 2006 - 31 March 2007
Adult: AU$345
Ensuite accommodation upgrade option: 2 nights motel: Twin/Double per person AU$420, Single AU$510
plus $10 fuel levy

1st April 2007 - 31 March 2008
Adult: AU$365 , Child: AU$290
Ensuite accommodation upgrade option: 2 nights motel: Twin/Double per person AU$430, Single AU$515
+ $10 fuel levy

Departs Melbourne 6.30am
Apr, Sep-Mar: Tue, Thu, Sat
May-Aug: Thu, Sat
Finishes Adelaide accommodation early evening day 3

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera, film, money for some meals, sense of Adventure
15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guides, meals as indicated,2 nights hostel dorm accommodation, accommodation transfers, (tea, coffee, milo & snacks), National Park entry fees, entry to Otway Fly Tree Top Walk.

Max People 24

Notes
Itinerary may vary and/or attractions substituted due to seasonal conditions and National Park requirements.
Upgrade accommodation is budget style and may be located on different premises to dorm accommodation.
Safari’s must be reconfirmed by 4.00pm the day before travel.

3 Day Melbourne to Sydney

Begins from 1st April 2007 (4 day tour before then)

Day 1 - Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory NP
We begin our adventure early, travelling southeast of Melbourne through the pastoral landscape of South Gippsland to hike and explore the Wilsons Promontory National Park. Walk on squeaky beaches, watch the ocean of Bass Strait pound on to the Australian mainland's most southerly point, hike along spectacular granite rock formations with fantastic views and learn about the coastal flora & native wildlife (perhaps sighting emus and wombats!) In the afternoon we travel to the coastal township of Lakes Entrance; Gateway to the Gippsland Lakes and Australia's longest beach - Ninety Mile Beach. (D)

Day 2 - Wilsons Promontory NP to Snowy River Country
This morning we commence our journey into Snowy River Country, taking a break to fly down the 'zip wire' (optional activity at own expense). Our journey along the scenic Barry Way is spectacular as we watch the Snowy River wind below us and cross the border into NSW. In the afternoon, let the bus do all the work as we climb high into the Australian Alps (seasonal Nov-May). Enjoy a rewarding hike along an alpine track (2 1/2 hour round-trip) absorbing stunning views of the glacial 'Blue Lake' and the peak of Mt Kosciuszko (the highest point in Australia). During winter, (Jun-Oct) we visit the ski village of Perisher/Smiggins for fun in the snow (optional hire of toboggans or snow tubes at own expense). Stay overnight at the Lake Jindabyne Hotel where you'll get to enjoy the mountain life; perhaps a sauna, swim or a drink at the bar while taking in the magnificent view of the lake. (BD)

Day 3 - Jindabyne to Sydney via Canberra
For early risers, take the opportunity to fish in the lake for trout or hit the water, with optional activities including water skiing and/or wake boarding (summer only and at own expense). Later, we pass through Cooma, learning about Australia's great engineering feat the 'Snowy Hydro-Electric Scheme'. We then continue on to our national's capital city of Canberra, checking out Parliament House and other highlights before travelling on to Sydney. (B)

:: Tour Prices 1st April 2007 - 31st March 2008
Adult: AU$365.00 , Child: AU$290.00
+ $10 fuel levy
Double motel upgrade per person $60.00 / Single $130.00

Departs 1st April 2007 - 31st March 2008
Sydney 6.30am, Apr, Sep-Mar Tue, Thu, Sat
May - Aug Tue, Sa

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, swimming gear, warm clothing (including waterproof jacket and pants), water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera, film, money for some meals & optional activities.
15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guide, meals as indicated, National Park entry fees and 2 nights hostel dorm accommodation incl. bed linen (or upgrade to double).

Max People 24

Notes
Itinerary may vary and/or attractions substituted due to seasonal conditions and National Park requirements.
Safaris must be reconfirmed by 4.00pm the day prior to travel
Fuel levy of $10 per person is payable upon departure
*Accommodation upgrade option is not available during July and August.

6 Day Melbourne to Adelaide and Kangaroo Island

Day 1 - Melbourne via Great Ocean Rd to Port Campbell
We begin our journey travelling through Geelong before stopping at Torquay (home of Quicksilver and Rip Curl) where you can pick yourself up a bargain, before making our way to the world famous Bell’s Beach. Here we commence our journey on the renowned Great Ocean Road, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Australia, calling into the seaside towns of Lorne & Apollo Bay exploring pristine beaches, gorges and the magnificent cool temperate rainforest of the Otway NP. We spend time at the awesome Otway Fly, (25 metre high elevated tree top walk) and explore Loch Ard Gorge before enjoying sunset at the Twelve Apostles. Tonight we stay in the fishing village of Port Campbell or Princetown.

Day 2 - Port Campbell to Grampians NP
View sunrise over the Twelve Apostles then take the Gibson Steps down to the beach for a different perspective of this amazing formation. Continuing along the western end of the Great Ocean Road we visit London Bridge, The Grotto, Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands before arriving at Warrnambool for a chance to view whales (seasonal). Travelling on through country Victoria, we arrive at the magnificent Grampians NP, where we accept the challenge of a hike to the Pinnacle. We finish the day with a walk to The Balconies & Reeds Lookout before arriving at our overnight accommodation in the Grampians. (B)

Day 3 - Halls Gap to Adelaide
Today we spend the morning hiking to the bottom of MacKenzie Falls & Hollow Mountain for breathtaking views over the north of the Grampians before sadly leave this magical place. Travelling west, we break for lunch at Horsham then continue through the agricultural district of Victoria, into South Australia and Bordertown, home of the rare White Western Grey Kangaroos. We cross the mighty Murray River, then pass through the picturesque Adelaide Hills arriving into the city of Adelaide. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (B)

Day 4 - A FREE day in Adelaide to relax
Overnight dorm accommodation included. (no meals)

Day 5 - Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
We make our way out of Adelaide through the scenic hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula. When we arrive at Cape Jervis, we board the SeaLink ferry across Backstairs Passage (45 minute trip) to Penneshaw, where we meet your local island guide. It’s not far to our first stop at Pennington Bay, one of the Island’s stunning surf beaches. Get amongst sea lions in their natural habitat on our guided walk at Seal Bay, an experience you won’t forget! Scramble up the white sand hills at Little Sahara and get up close to more wildlife (including koalas) at the Hanson Bay Koala Sanctuary. We arrive at our farm-stay accommodation late in the afternoon. After dinner, get ready to spot kangaroos, wallabies and possums on a guided nocturnal walk. (LD)

Day 6 - Kangaroo Island to Adelaide
We spend the morning in Flinders Chase National Park. Clamber on the huge granite outcrops of Remarkable Rocks, sculpted by nature over hundreds of years. A colony of New Zealand fur seals resides at Admirals Arch on Cape du Couedic, watch while they frolic in the ocean or lap up the sunshine! We’ll have lunch at Rocky River Headquarters, where there’s time to check out the Information Centre; start point for the Snake Lagoon and Platypus Walks (seasonal choice). After lunch, we travel through the central farming region to the North Coast, visiting Stokes Bay, where a rock runnel leads to an idyllic beach (seasonal). We then return to Penneshaw, with time to purchase dinner (own expense) before returning to the mainland and Adelaide. (BL)

:: Tour Prices
1st April 2006 - 31st March 2007
Adult: AU$685
Twin motel upgrade 5 nights per person $AU885 / Single motel upgrade 5 nights $AU1175
plus $10 fuel levy

1st April 2007 - 31st March 2008
Adult: AU$775, Child: AU$620
Twin motel upgrade 5 nights per person $AU975 / Single motel upgrade 5 nights $AU1265
+ $10 fuel levy

Departs Melbourne 6.30am
Apr, Nov-Mar: Tue Thu* Sat
Sep-Oct: Tue Thu
May-Aug Thu
* * Except 20 Dec

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat, sunscreen, towel, toiletries, warm & waterproof clothing (even in summer), water bottle, swimming gear, insect repellent, camera, film, binoculars, money for meals 15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guides, meals as indicated, 5 nights dorm accommodation, accommodation transfers, return ferry transfer, National Park entry fees, entry to Otway Fly Tree Top Walk

Departs Melbourne 6.30am Tue & Sun (+ Thu Nov-March

Max People 24

Notes
Itinerary may vary and/or attractions substituted due to seasonal conditions and National Park requirements.

18 Day Melbourne to Darwin

Day 1 - Melbourne via Great Ocean Rd to Princetown
We begin our journey travelling through Geelong before stopping at Torquay (home of Quicksilver and Rip Curl) where you can pick yourself up a bargain, before making our way to the world famous Bell's Beach. Here we commence our journey on the renowned Great Ocean Road, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Australia, calling into the seaside towns of Lorne & Apollo Bay exploring pristine beaches, gorges and the magnificent cool temperate rainforest of the Otway NP. We spend time at the awesome Otway Fly, (25 metre high elevated tree top walk) and explore Loch Ard Gorge before enjoying sunset at the Twelve Apostles. Tonight we stay in the coastal village of Princetown. (D)

Day 2 - Princetown to Grampians NP
View sunrise over the Twelve Apostles then take the Gibson Steps down to the beach for a different perspective of this amazing formation. Continuing along the western end of the Great Ocean Road we visit London Bridge, The Grotto, Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands before arriving at Warrnambool for a chance to view whales (seasonal). Travelling on through country Victoria, we arrive at the magnificent Grampians NP, where we accept the challenge of a hike to the Pinnacle. We finish the day with a walk to The Balconies & Reeds Lookout before arriving at our overnight accommodation in the Grampians. (B, D)

Day 3 - Halls Gap to Adelaide
Today we spend the morning hiking to the bottom of MacKenzie Falls & Hollow Mountain for breathtaking views over the north of the Grampians before leaving this magical place. Travelling west, we break for lunch at Horsham then continue through the agricultural district of Victoria, into South Australia and Bordertown, home of the rare White Western Grey Kangaroos. We cross the mighty Murray River, then pass through the picturesque Adelaide Hills arriving into the city of Adelaide. Overnight dorm accommodation included (B)

Day 4 - Adelaide
A FREE day to explore the sights of Adelaide. Overnight dorm included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 5 - Adelaide to Parachilna
Leaving Adelaide we travel through Clare Valley then continue on to Kanyaka Homestead the Flinders Ranges. We stop and view rock art at Yourambulla Caves before heading for our overnight dorm accommodation at Parachilna. (LD)

Day 6 - Flinders Ranges & Wilpena Pound
We drive through Parachilna Gorge before arriving at Wilpena Pound, to climb Mt Ohlssen-Bagge for fantastic views over the ranges. After lunch, we travel to remote Rawnsley Park sheep station where we stay overnight in dorms. (BLD)

Day 7 - Rawnsley Park to Coober Pedy
We travel to Coober Pedy then take a town and opal mine tour with a chance to go opal fossicking (time permitting). We stay in an underground bunkhouse in Coober Pedy. (NB. upgrade to Hotel accommodation is available at own expense) (BLD)

Day 8 - Coober Pedy to Uluru
Drive through rugged desert country to Yulara for the sunset at Uluru (Ayers Rock) then view the stars in our overnight permanent camp at Yulara. (BLD)

Day 9 - Uluru to Kata Tjuta & Kings Canyon
Up early for the Uluru sunrise where you can enjoy a base walk or choose to climb Uluru, then take a guided interpretive walk at Mala. We visit Kata Tjuta (Olgas) and head to Kings Canyon for our overnight camp. (BLD)

Day 10 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
Explore Kings Canyon, including the breathtaking North and South walls. After lunch we depart for Alice Springs viewing the rugged desert scenery along the way. Overnight Dorm. (BL)

Day 11 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight dorm included. (No meals)

Day 12 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight dorm included. (No meals)

Day 13 - Alice Springs to Banka Banka
On the way north to the Devils Marbles we stop at the Tropic of Capricorn & visit an Aboriginal community. We stop for lunch at Mary Ann Dam with the chance for a swim (summer only). After a tour of the Battery Hill Gold Mine at Tennant Creek, we travel on to the historic Banka Banka Cattle Station to meet the locals & maybe a swim. Overnight camp. (LD)

Day 14 - Mataranka to Katherine Gorge
We head further north to experience the famous outback pub at Daly Waters, and meet more locals. After lunch we travel to Mataranka thermal springs for a swim. In the late afternoon we travel to the magnificent Katherine Gorge for our overnight camp. (BLD)

Day 15 - Katherine Gorge to Darwin
Spend half a day exploring Katherine Gorge by canoe, boat cruise or helicopter (at own expense). Enjoy lunch before heading to Darwin via Edith Falls and Adelaide River. Overnight in Darwin - dormitory accommodation included (upgrade to motel at own expense). (BL)

Day 16 - Darwin to Mary River
See the falls of Litchfield National Park before heading to the Mary River Wetlands. This afternoon look for 'crocs' and other wildlife on our private river cruise. Arrive at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge to experience an Aboriginal Corroborree, dinner and overnight camp. (LD)

Day 17 - Mary River to Kakadu
We call in at Mamukala Wetlands then head to the awesome Jim Jim Falls to take a walk to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Here we join a National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience up the stunning gorge to the waterfall where you can relax on the sandy bank. We drive on to Kakadu for dinner and our overnight camp. (BLD)

Day 18 - Kakadu to Darwin
Our first stop is Ubirr where we discover ancient Aboriginal rock art. We continue our journey to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where we do some hiking and enjoy a refreshing dip in the plunge pools. We then return to Darwin, enjoying the impressive scenery along the way. (BL)

:: Tour Prices
1st April 2006 - 31st March 2007 - AU$1760
Upgrade 11 nts Motel incl 3 star Opal Inn Coober Pedy - Twin AU$450pp / Single AU$1045pp
Upgrade 11 nts Motel incl 4 star Desert Cave Coober Pedy - Twin AU$500pp / Single AU$1135pp
plus $10 fuel levy

1st April 2007 - 31st March 2008 - Adult: AU$1795, Child: AU$1435
+ $10 fuel levy
Upgrade 11 nts Motel incl 3 star Opal Inn Coober Pedy - Twin AU$465pp / Single AU$1035pp
Upgrade 11 nts Motel incl 4 star Desert Cave Coober Pedy - Twin AU$515pp / Single AU$1130pp

Departs Melbourne
Apr-Aug, 17 Oct-Mar: Thu, Sat
Sep-16Oct: Tue, Thu, Sat

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for $15)
15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guides, all meals as indicated, accommodation transfers, camping fees & equipment, Opal Mine tour, hostel dorm accommodation where stated.

Max People 16/24

Notes
This tour includes 11 nights dorm accommodation and 6 nights camping
This is a combination tour so you may have a different group and guide for each section. Tour also available in reverse.
The order stated in the itinerary may change at the discretion of the guide. Itinerary may also vary due to seasonal conditions.