Budget Tours from Sydney

3 Day Sydney to Melbourne Safari

Day 1 - Sydney to Jindabyne (via Canberra)
We travel to Australia's capital city of Canberra checking out Parliament House and other highlights on a city tour. After lunch we pass through Cooma, learning about Australia's great engineering feat the 'Snowy Hydro-Electric Scheme'. We arrive at Jindabyne in the late afternoon - a great time for a spot of trout fishing in the lake or perhaps go water skiing and/or wake boarding (all at own expense & seasonal). Dinner and overnight dorm accommodation is included 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. (D)

Day 2 - Jindabyne to Lakes Entrance Via Snowy River Country
After breakfast, 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' & 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). After lunch we take the spectacular scenic drive along the Barry Way, watching the Snowy River wind below us, as we cross the border into Victoria. In the afternoon, we take a break to fly down the 'zip wire' (optional activity at own expense) before arriving for our overnight stop at the coastal township of Lakes Entrance; the Gateway to the Gippsland Lakes and Australia’s longest beach - Ninety Mile Beach. (B D)

Day 3 - Lakes Entrance to Wilsons Promontory NP
This morning you may wish to take the opportunity for an early morning walk before driving to Wilsons Promontory National Park with ample time to hike and explore! 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 (maybe even sighting emus and wombats). We finish our tour, travelling on to Melbourne through the pastoral landscape of South Gippsland. (B)

:: Tour Prices 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010 US$378
Local Payment: AU$12 Fuel Levy

Accommodation upgrade: 2 nights budget ensuite = Twin/Double per person = US$434, Triple per person = US$408, Single = US$506

Departs Departs Sydney accommodation 6.30am
Apr, Nov.-March: Mon Wed Sat
May - Sept: Wed Sat

:: 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 on departure
*Accommodation upgrade option is not available during July and August.

13 Day Sydney to Alice Springs and 21 Day Sydney to Darwin

14 Day Sydney to Cairns Package

Day 1: Sydney to Surf Camp
Today we head to our secluded surf camp, located beachside approximately 5 hours north of Sydney. On the spectacular white sandy beaches we meet up with the crew from Mojo Surf (some of Australia's best surf instructors) whose mission is to get you standing on a board by the end of this trip! You will start with a theory lesson on surfing and then it’s straight out to get you on a board. If surfing isn't for you perhaps sunbake on the crystal white sands or take a walk around the beautiful headland. When your surfing or relaxing on the beach is complete, we drive on to our next surf camp where you will have dinner back at the Mojo Beach House. (D)

Day 2: Surf Camp to Brisbane via Byron Bay
After a delicious breakfast we head North to Byron Bay. Admire the coastal views at Australia's most Easterly point; the Byron lighthouse. From Byron Bay you will travel via the Gold Coast to Brisbane, stopping off to try one of the craziest adventure activities ever developed - zorbing (optional extra). Roll down a hill in a 3.5 metre plastic ball filled with warm water for a huge amount of fun, and then continue on to Brisbane. (B)

Day 3: Brisbane to Rainbow Beach
This morning we take a short break at the spectacular lookout at Wild Horse Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast overlooking Noosa and Mooloolaba, before arriving at Rainbow Beach; a vibrant young coastal town, with glistening coloured sands and a relaxed atmosphere. In the afternoon we participate in a sea kayak trip to paddle amongst wild dolphins at Double Island Point. If you are lucky you may also see turtles and thousands of soldier crabs. This evening relax in our accommodation, located just 100 metres from the beach. (D)

Days 4 - 5 : 2 Day Fraser Island Tour
Spend the next two days exploring Fraser Island on a ranger guided 4WD safari with Fraser Explorer, staying at Eurong Resort. You will drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, visit Lakes' Wabby and Mackenzie, Eli Creek, the Maheno Wreck and climb Indian Head. Return to Rainbow Beach for an overnight stay. (Day 5: LD Day 6: BLD)

Day 6: Rainbow Beach to Kroombit Cattle Station
This morning take part in a cultural demonstration from your guide, learning about the didgeridoo, boomerang and spear throwing, and the Rainbow Serpent. After a few hours at Rainbow Beach we head inland through cattle country to Kroombit Cattle Station. Here we experience genuine outback living with the chance to ride a mechanical bull and take a walk of the property. Tonight you will taste a traditional camp oven dinner, cooked in the open fire. (D)

Day 7: Kroombit Cattle Station
Today is jam-packed with wonderful activities also included in the price of your tour. Learn first-hand about Queensland farming life as you participate in a "muster" on horseback, try your skill at trap-shooting and witness a mini-rodeo as animals are herded into the ring. This evening enjoy another hearty camp-oven dinner and re-live your days experiences around the campfire with a beer from the bush bar. (B LD)

Day 8: Kroombit to Carnarvon Gorge
This morning, start the day with a hearty bush breakfast, before heading further inland through Central Queensland's remote outback to the little known jewel of Carnarvon National Park. Carnarvon Gorge, central to this park is a remarkable natural attraction with 30kms of walking trails, 200 species of birds, ancient plants and Aboriginal rock-art dating back 3,500 years. This afternoon we will get a taste of the gorge with a short walk amongst the numerous kangaroos and wallabies that inhabit the area. Camp overnight adjacent to Carnarvon National Park. (B D)

Day 9: Carnarvon Gorge
Chances are that you're sleep will be broken this morning by the many birds that live amongst trees surrounding the camp. After breakfast you will spend the full day hiking through the many walking trails scattered throughout this magnificent gorge. Walks are mostly of easy grade and therefore suitable for all ages and fitness levels, however the options are varied. You will see 500 year old cycads, grass trees and eucalypts, native wildlife and learn about the indigenous ancestors that inhabited this region for more than 3500 years. See the best examples of rock-art in Queensland, made from the ochre taken from the region. After a days exercise, you will return to your camp for a good nights sleep within this wilderness region. (B L D)

Day 10: Carnarvon Gorge to Mackay Region
We start early today for our big drive from Carnarvon Gorge to the Mackay region, breaking the journey at the small sugar township of Sarina to try our hand at 'barefoot bowling'; lawn bowls Aussie style! This is the first time we've hit the coast in four days and we now follow the coast to arrive at the Whitsunday gateway of Mackay. Overnight in the Mackay region. (B)

Days 11-13: Whitsunday Sailing
You will have the opportunity to sun-bathe, snorkel and swim whilst exploring the idyllic Whitsunday Islands on a yacht worth millions of dollars. Visit the many beaches, coves and islands on this two night sailing trip, with the opportunity to hoist the sails and even take the wheel. Note that you will sleep on the boat, moored in quiet coves. Cabins are share only; no twin and doubles for these two nights. In the morning of day 13 you will return to the mainland and drive north through Townsville to our overnight stop at the beautiful beach town of Mission Beach; home of Australia's famous flightless bird, the cassowary. (Day 11: LD Day 12: BLD Day 13: B)

Day 14: Mission Beach to Cairns via the 'Tablelands'
Departing Mission Beach we head for the South Johnstone Crocodile Farm to learn more about the most feared animal in Northern Australia; the estuarine or saltwater crocodile. Spend a couple of hours learning how this prehistoric animal has survived and flourished in Australia's harsh north and see large crocodiles up close and personal. From here we set out to explore the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy a guided bush walk through towering rainforest, tropical farmland and take a dip in crater lakes and beautiful waterfalls. As we arrive into Cairns, you will be able to cherish the many great experiences of Australia's East Coast. (D)

:: Tour Prices : US$2121 per person
Accommodation upgrade (10 nights): Twin/double: $230 pp Note: Triple, twin or double accommodation is not available at Surf Camp or while Whitsunday Sailing.

:: What to Bring Sturdy walking shoes, thongs/sandals, hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, swimming gear/beach towel, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, money for meals not included, optional activities and listed fees
15kg luggage limit

:: What's Included Experienced guides, meals as indicated, four-share accommodation (or upgrade to triple or twin/double), national park fees*, 2 day/2 night Whitsunday sailing*, 2 day 4WD Fraser Island* tour and many other activities as indicated.

Departs Sydney 6.40am Sundays
Finishes Cairns
reverse itinerary departs Cairns on Wednesdays

Max People 24

Notes
•These packages comprise a couple of different tours; therefore you may travel with a different guide and passengers’ enroute.
•Package is not suitable for children under 8 years of age.
•Itinerary may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal conditions and National Park requirements. Carnarvon Gorge is known for flooding at random times throughout the year and during these times it is inaccessible by road due to high river crossings. Carnarvon Gorge may be substituted with activities in the Rockhampton and Whitsunday region.
•Triple, Double/Twin upgrade accommodation is subject to availability at time of booking. Upgrade option is not available at surf camp and during sailing. Double/twin rooms do not feature ensuite facilities at Kroombit or Carnarvon Gorge. Upgrade accommodation is only available when passengers are booking and travelling together.
•Advertised accommodation may be substituted with alternative accommodation of a similar or superior standard at any time due to lack of availability.
•*Fraser Island fee is not included and payable upon arrival (AUD$14). Whitsunday Sailing does not include Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax) and other fees, payable upon arrival (AUD $32). Fuel levy AUD$10 applies.
•Tours must be reconfirmed by 4.00pm the day prior to travel.