family tours australia

Family Tours & Trips in Australia

• Queensland Family
• Tasmania Family
• Great Barrier Reef Family
• Western Australia Family
• Kimberley Family

250+ Family tour packages in Australia with 721 reviews

Kimberley Family Holiday

The sites were amazing and the children had the best time ever. I recommend to all families.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Famous 5 - 5 day Tour of Tasmania

I learned so much on this tour. This was my second tour with Tour Radar. I highly recommend these tours.

• €65 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Explorer Six - 6 Day Tour of Tasmania

The tour is great, the guide Steve knows the spots and when the big crowds turn up.

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

Tassie's East Coast Highlights (5 Days)

Tasmania is one of Australia's rare hidden gems, if you like great food and wine, gorgeous coastline and green rolling hills.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The BIG 3 Tasmania - Launceston to Hobart

The 3 drivers in Coles Bay where we were stuck because of the fires were outstanding.

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

Tassie's Wilderness Icons (6 Days)

Overall it was a good experience. Meal options for vegetarian food were very limited.

The BIG 3 Tasmania - Hobart to Launceston

Wineglass Bay is a breathtaking destination, and the tour was a wonderful experience.

5 Day Kimberley Family Safari

• Sightseeing

3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide

We enjoyed our three-day trip tremendously! The background information made the site even more memorable.

What people love about Family Tours in Australia

The tour was absolutely fantastic and our guide Sidney and Bianca were helpful kind and knowledgeable. The sites were amazing and the children had the best time ever. The group was delightful and we had one of the most memorable holidays. I recommend to all families. Thank you Bianca and Sidney for everything

This tour was absolutely fantastic. We were able to squeeze in and see so much of Tasmania’s natural beauty! Our tour guide Hayden was amazing - cool, calm and knowledgeable! I was overjoyed when he helped us spot some platypus in their natural environment. Whilst on the bus itself he shared heaps of information and fun facts to keep us entertained. There is a lot of early starts - which is totally fair enough since it meant we could enjoy so much of what Tasmania has to offer. There is a lot of walking - but there are many choices of walks to do, so you can chose the level of difficulty in most places and all walks are optional. One of my favourite trips in Australia so far ?

Excellent Larry our guide took very good care of us. Did his best to ensure we all were ok and happy

Top operators

"The Oz east coast trip with Intro is an amazing way to explore the entire east coast trip fast! It is well organised and as described, with the option to do extra activities along the way too. My leader was Molly who has fantastic. She got the group to each destination safe and sound, without any hassle, and with lots of laughs! She also was extremely knowledgeable about each destination we went to and about the general Aussie culture. She was extremely approachable to any queries that you had and gave me lots of tips and advice for working in OZ after! It is also a great way to make lifelong friends and travel safely. I would definitely recommend. I would also suggest bringing a suitcase or wheely backpack as it is much easier to travel with. 😊

INTRO Travel is an expert in:

"I really liked the itinerary, it was varied with some active days like the hike to Hells gate and back. Other days we could do our own thing which was great. Most of the hostels were to be expected, however the one in Airlie Beach was awfully dirty and lacking basic things such as lockers and safes. Apart from that, I enjoyed the trip!

G Adventures is an expert in:

"Guide was great - friendly, organised, knowledgeable. Back office support was really bad eg. not contacting hotels in previous 3 weeks so hotels didn't know how many were arriving. Taking weeks to confirm if they could provide a single room for a traveller.

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

• Overland Truck

Regions in Australia

• Australian Outback (84)
• Western Australia (69)
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• Australia Northern Territory (60)
• Tasmania (48)
• Great Barrier Reef (44)
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• Red Centre (35)
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• Kakadu National Park (33)
• Queensland (27)
• Australia West Coast (25)
• South Australia (24)
• South East Queensland (20)
• Great Ocean Road (13)
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Australia's Original Adventure Travel Experts

• Tours from Sydney
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• Kimberley tours from Darwin
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Child and Family Friendly Australian Tours

Take your children on an australian family adventure holiday. we have plenty of great family tours in australia to choose from., in this article, we give you a rundown of the family tou rs you can go on in australia. tours can be a great way to take the family on holiday. you won’t have to drive for a start. or think about th e logistics of where to camp. you’ll have someone to show you around and advise on safety. plus it’s a full educational day out, the children won’t even realize they are learning as they are having such a good time..

These trips below in Australia are our rec ommended tours for families. 

Here we will go over some of our best trips that are family-friendly and perfect to take your children on. Time to plan a family adventure holiday in Australia. Ages, as stated, are welcome on the tours. Parents will always be responsible for their children at all times, with the tour guide there to facilitate the tour not as the babysitter. You will find your children are so engrossed in the flora and fauna of beautiful Australian outback regions they won’t have time to be bored or misbehave. A win-win for the whole family.

Australia is built for the perfect family adventure with so much wildlife, plenty of walking and swimming and total outdoor living. Get the children away from the TV and Ipad for some family bonding and lots of learning about the culture and the great outdoors! So much to keep the kids occupied from long overland family holiday trips to adventure activities.

There are special child rates but also special family prices on some of these tours. So ask us at the time of booking and we can put your family package to Australia together.

Meet Koalas and Kangaroos, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, explore the rainforest, and soak up the sun in Sydney! So much to do on your family holiday in Australia. 

We recommend our family-friendly tours here so you can have the best possible Australia vacation.

Don’t have time to read this article and just want a quick list of tours to check this out:  Family Friendly Tours

We have listed these family tours in Australia by the state that they operate in.

Northern Territory

South Australia

The best child and Family Friendly tours around Australia

Ok, here is the list of all the tours for families on offer.. We have so many family tours Australia so this list is long… here we go.

Northern Territory tours with kids

Yes, you can travel in the outback in Australia with children as a family. No worries, we have the perfect tours tailor made for travelling in the Northern Territory as a family.  

ALL our tours below are family and kid friendly. Just make sure you book well in advance if travelling in the school holidays… i think we will be repeating that one many times in this list!

Uluru Red Centre Tours perfect for children

We have the ideal family tour to Uluru for you. 

This tour shows off the highlights around the Red Centre of Australia. You will see the highlights of Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and Watarrka (Kings Canyon) traveling in a large 4WD vehicle with your guide and other travellers. The ultimate family adventure holiday in Australia!

Child and Family Friendly Australian Tours from Alice Springs or Ayers Rock.  Find out more about our Uluru tour here.

3 Day Uluru Tour for children over 8 years old

Starts: Alice Springs 

Finishes: Alice Springs  or Ayers Rock Airport

Accommodation: Permanent campsites with twin share tents

Child age: 8-15 years

Book your 3 Day Uluru Tour here.

Family tours to Uluru for a family with Children 7 and over 

Accommodation: Pop up twin share tents or Swags

Child age: 7-15 years

Book your  3 Day Uluru Tour here.

The ideal Kakadu National Park tour for a family

Kakadu National Park has animals, swimming, Aboriginal culture, interesting plants and a hot climate. It’s easily explored on a tour as a family with our child-friendly tours.

You will stay in comfortable twin share permanent tents as a family. We do have limited family tents so please request a booking and you can sleep together as a family. If not we would have one adult and one child per twin share tent.

Kakadu National Park is a great destination for children and a family-friendly adventure. It’s one of the few World Heritage sites to be listed for both its cultural and natural features. Kakadu is renowned for its rich Aboriginal history and biodiversity. Where else can you come and see towering red rugged escarpments, impressive gorges, floodplains, art galleries thousands of years old, pockets of rainforests, billabongs dotted with lotus flowers and lurking crocs, waterfalls cascading into plunge pools, over one-third of Australian bird species, and thousands of plant species such as pandanus and cycads?

Find out more about our family-friendly Kakadu Tour here.

Starts: Darwin

Finishes: Darwin

Book your child and family-friendly Kakadu tour here:

Between June and October book onto our 3 Day 4WD Dragonfly Dreaming Top End Tour.

Between June and October try a longer tour with our 5 day Jabiru National Park tour from Darwin.

School holidays fill super fast for our 3 day Kakadu and Litchfield tour so please book well in advance for Easter, July school holidays, and the end of September and October.

West Coast Family Tours

Pinnacles tour at sunset.

This 1 Day Pinnacles tour takes you north of Perth to Yanchep National Park and is  family friendly . A popular spot with kids as they enjoy spotting for Koalas. Then we head to the Pinnacles desert National park to look at the famous yellow limestone rocks,. You will see these at sunset where the children can throw shapes and take in some stargazing in Western Australia.

A very family-friendly day out from Perth.

Find out more about our Pinnacles tour here.

Starts: Perth

Finishes: Perth

Child age: 4 years and above.

Book your 1 Day Pinnacles family-friendly tour here.

Perth to Exmouth Tour suitable for children

Explore Western Australia on our 5 days one way or 7 days return Perth to Exmouth tour. This tour takes in the Pinnacles, Kalbarri National Park, Monkey Mia, Coral Bay and Exmouth. The perfect west adventure. Our guide is fun and knowledgeable and enjoys family groups on tour. Those from 8-70 years old. So take your children and their grandparents on this adventure.

Witness the wonders of Western Australia’s Coral Coast region! Get set for an outdoor adventure like no other. Head north past brilliant white sand dunes, hike through deep red gorges and dive into the pristine Ningaloo Reef all in one tour. West coast is the perfect family adventure holiday in Australia, during any time of the year.

Accommodation: Hostels. As a family you will need to upgrade to private rooms. Select Twin-share on tour.

Child age: 8 years and above

Find out more about our  Child and Family Friendly Perth to Exmouth tour here.

Perth to Exmouth one way tour

Family friendly holidays Queensland

Fraser island guided tours for families.

Planning your next family holiday to Queensland? Family-friendly is the word here on Fraser Island, with 184,000 hectares of fresh-water lakes and creeks, sand blows, sub-tropical rainforests and World Heritage wilderness just waiting to be explored. You could even call it the world’s largest sandpit!

We recommend a few great child-friendly tours to Fraser Island.

Our 2 day Fraser Island Guided Tour:

Starts: Hervey Bay

Finishes: Hervey Bay

Accommodation: Hostels. Will need to upgrade to private rooms. Select Twin share on tour.

Child age: 5 years and above

For bookings that include infants (0-4 years old) please let us know at the time of booking your Fraser Island tour. All infants must be able to sit upright in a booster seat. We do not provide booster seats, so please bring along.

Find out more about our 2 days 1 night Fraser Island Guided Tour here .

We also have 1-day tours to Fraser Island that are suitable for children over 5 years old.

On this, Fraser Island day tour you can expect to see: Central Station – this former logging station is now a tourist stop. Stroll along the Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk to discover the ancient King Ferns, towering Gum and Pine trees; Lake McKenzie – enjoy a revitalising swim in the crystal blue waters and relax on the sandy white beaches… it’s picture perfect; Seventy-Five Mile Beach – as you drive along this sandy highway, you may spot birds of prey flying above or humpback whales as they migrate past (between July – November). You may wish to join the Air Fraser team for a scenic flight over the island – book with your guide on tour (optional extra); Eli Creek – float down this fast-flowing freshwater creek pouring out 80 megalitres of water daily into the ocean; Maheno Shipwreck – enjoy a photo stop at the rusting wreck of the Maheno washed ashore during an out-of-season cyclone in 1935 – it’s one of Fraser Island’s most recognizable sites; The Pinnacles Coloured Sands – learn how these technicolour sand formations were created and the Butchulla legends surrounding them. We stop to take a picture as we drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach. Itinerary order and inclusions can change due to tides and weather conditions.

Child and Family Friendly One Day Tours on Fraser Island:  Book your 1 day Fraser Island Day tour here.

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures suitable for Children.

The Whitsundays are the ideal place to vacation with your family. There are plenty of family-friendly trips available that will allow you to explore the stunning Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach with your kids. A family tour in Australia is not complete without a visit to the Whitsundays. We all know our children love Nemo and cannot wait to try to snorkel with him.! 

Overnight Whitsunday Sailing adventure for a family

For an overnight sailing adventure, we have our 2 day 2 night adventurer

This 2 day Whitsunday tour is perfect for those children over 2 years old.

We have family cabins. Passengers under the age of 18 must be booked into a private cabin with an adult known to them.

One day Whitsunday family sailing adventure

We also have Whitsunday one day tours suitable for kids.

1 Day Whitsunday Bullet Beach and Snorkel Dive Tour

Whitsunday Bullet is built to high-speed specification with seat belts and fitted with sound bilge catamaran demi-hulls. This will make the vessel easier to handle on windy days, offering guests a safer and dryer tour while experiencing the very best of the Whitsundays. We visit Whitsunday Island for a walk to the renowned Hill Inlet Lookout, South Whitehaven Beach for a swim and to marvel at the white silica sands of the beach and time at the north end of Hook Island or Hayman Island for snorkelling.

This tour is suitable for those over 8 years old.

Find more options for Sailing Whitsundays as a family: Sailing Whitsundays Family tours

Great Barrier Reef Cruise Adventures suitable for Children.

Tours from cairns suitable for children and families., travelling victoria as a family, family tours from melbourne.

From Melbourne, we can help you get the most out of your time here and enable you to see all that our beautiful city and surroundings has to offer. Don’t be restricted in where you can go because you have little ones in tow. We have created a range of tours with kids (and parents!) in mind. We’ve also tailored our day tours to ensure little travellers can last the distance, with appropriate stops along the way to stretch their little legs.

Child and Family Friendly Australian Tours from Melbourne

1 Day Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour

This tour is great for those 4 years and over who want to get out of the city and see the Penguins. Victoria’s three wildlife and nature gems. The world-renowned Phillip Island Penguin Parade, hand feeding wallabies at Moonlit Sanctuary and the 1850s Churchill Island heritage farm with sheep shearing. Its always important on a  family tour in Australia to include some cute animals, and what could be cuter than Penguins! 

1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour

Discover Australia’s greatest coastal drive, the spectacular Great Ocean Road, including the world-famous 12 Apostles and the Loch Ard Gorge shipwreck legends. This Great Ocean Road tour is perfect for those children 4 years old and over. 

Family- friendly South Australia Tours

Kangaroo island family holiday packages.

From Adelaide, we have the perfect family adventure tour to Kangaroo Island for you and your family. Perfect for children Kangaroo Island offers native wildlife, short hikes to the best lookouts and plenty of accommodation options. Plus the ferry ride over to Kangaroo Island is a real adventure for children! 

Child and Family Friendly Australian Tours to Kangaroo Island 

Child age: 3 years and above. child pricing is from 3 – 14 years. 

2 Day Best of Kangaroo Island Coach and Hotel Tour

Or for a day trip:

1 Day Kangaroo Island Highlights TourFamily road trip Western Australia

Family-friendly holidays in Tasmania

Don’t just confine yourself to mainland Australia with children. Pop over to Tassie! Tasmania is a fantastic place to travel with children. We offer some really accessible day tours from Hobart and from Launceston that your children will love.

Most popular family-friendly day trip in Tassie has to be the Wineglass Bay tour.

1 Day Wineglass Bay

On our 5 day Hobart to Hobart tour we accommodate children from 8 years old. This tour takes in Wineglass Bay Cradle Mountain and Launceston. The perfect whistle-stop adventure tour of the whole island of Tasmania. 

Starts: Hobart

Finishes: Hobart

Accommodation: Hostels. As a family request a triple room.

From our more about our child-friendly 5 day tour: 5 Day Hobart to Hobart tour. 

Time to start planning your family tours in Australia now. 

We bet you can’t wait for your family adventure holidays in Australia now! So many options to take family tours, which encourage children to learn more about the environment, history, and wildlife.

As you can see all our kids tours are adventure based. So leave the devices at home and get out into the nature as a family. They are about bonding together as a family and learning about Australia. 

Check out our list of family friendly tours:  Family Friendly Tours

Real Aussie Recommendations

• On a family tour in Australia we would advise to sp end a few days exploring the city – before or after your tour explore the city on foot. 
• School holidays fill fast, so book well in advance. 
• Travelling with a family on a family friendly tour can be fun! Just contact us and we will do the rest. 

5 Day Red Centre Camping Tour (Alice Springs to Alice Springs)

1 Day Kakadu Wilderness and Cultural Tour

1 Day Katherine Gorge Tour

3 Day Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta Tour

3 Day Kakadu 4WD Accommodated Tour

3 day Camping Kakadu Tour

1 Day Thundercat Whitsundays Tour

1 Day Classic Kuranda Tour from Palm Cove

1 Day Langford Island snorkel and sunset sail

5 Day Red Centre Camping Tour (Yulara to Alice Springs)

3 Day Uluru Tour (Yulara to Alice Springs)

4 day Kakadu National Park Tour

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Australia’s top 10 family-friendly destinations

Jul 3, 2015 • 6 min read

Admiring the Sydney Opera House at dusk. Image by Shaun Egan / Getty Images

Broad, bronzed and open-skied, Australia is built for family travel – a dazzlingly diverse country strewn with tropical reefs, surf beaches and snowy heights. The vast distances between A and B can test parental patience, but with some savvy planning you can focus on the delights of exploring with people much closer to ground level than you are.

Leaf through the new edition of Lonely Planet’s Travel With Children for practical tips, or check out our list of top 10 family-friendly destinations to get you started.

Sydney Harbour

Australia’s biggest city would be just another sprawling metropolis without Sydney Harbour, the endlessly photogenic waterway around which city life circulates. Pile the kids onto a bumbling old Sydney ferry and check it out. Eyeball the Sydney Opera House from the water; chug under the Sydney Harbour Bridge ; have a picnic on Cockatoo Island or Fort Denison ; take a high-speed catamaran to Manly Beach for a surfing lesson; or disembark with your darlings at Darling Harbour for the Australian National Maritime Museum , Darling Quarter Playground, Sydney Sea Life Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo .

Touring Tasmania

Tasmania’s compact size, engaging history and accessible wilderness make for a brilliant family driving holiday: hop into a campervan for a ‘lap of the map’. Highlights include camping in Freycinet National Park , sea-kayaking around Coles Bay , beachcombing along Ocean Beach on the wild west coast, scaling the treetops at the Tahune Forest AirWalk and careening down Mt Wellington on a mountain bike. After dark, meet Tasmania’s ghosts (there are a few) on spooky tours of Hobart , Launceston and Port Arthur . On rainy days (there are also a few), Hobart’s excellent museums come to the rescue:  history , Antarctica , maritime – take your pick.

Darwin and the Top End national parks

Darwin is really hot – a cooling swim is a daily ritual here. Dunk the kids in the Wave Lagoon at the Waterfront Precinct, or drive an hour down the highway to Litchfield National Park to splash around under waterfalls. Kakadu National Park has some remote swimming holes too, but the park’s primary lures are its astonishing indigenous rock-art galleries and its wildlife (implausible numbers of snapping crocs and flapping birds). Further south is Nitmiluk National Park, where you can swim and kayak around gorgeous Katherine Gorge (actually 13 gorges). Back in Darwin, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market and Deckchair Cinema provide after-dark diversions. And if you didn’t spy a croc in Kakadu, Crocosaurus Cove in downtown Darwin will get you far closer to one than seems sensible.

Far north Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef

Launch your Great Barrier Reef expedition from Cairns or Port Douglas , with a high-speed catamaran trip to an inner-reef atoll or an extended day trip to the pristine outer reef. Either way, snorkeling over this hyper-coloured world is mind-blowing.  Scuba diving is an option for teens; a sedate sail in a glass-bottom boat will help the little ones to see into the sea. Back on dry land, far north Queensland  resorts are geared for family function, with structured activities, pools, waterslides, wave skis, paddleboards and kids’ food options all standard issue.

Ditch your preconceptions: Canberra is much more than a political filing cabinet these days. The nation’s capital is a really good city for kids, with easy parking, myriad picnic spots and plenty of space to run around. Get earnest at the Australian War Memorial , then go silly at the National Arboretum Playground , with the ‘beauty of trees’ at the fore. For older kids, Questacon (aka the National Science and Technology Centre) is laced with stimulating exhibits. Equally invigorating are a few joyous somersaults atop the grassy dome of Parliament House , while more complex ideologies collide in the chambers below.

Gold Coast theme parks

With an ego the size of Queensland, the Gold Coast is its own biggest fan. But don’t the kids love it! There are five humongous theme parks here: Dreamworld , Sea World , Movie World , Wet’n’Wild and WhiteWater World . Get wet on a muggy Queensland afternoon, meet some nautical critters or lose your lunch on a rollercoaster. A VIP Pass will save a few dollars; an early start will save a long walk across the car park. The Gold Coast’s beach suburbs are kid-centric too, with surf lessons, jet-skiing, sea-kayaking, whale-watching… Alternatively, the much-hyped Australia Zoo is two hours north (and it actually lives up to the hype).

 Victoria’s High Country

Given the otherwise sunstroked state of the nation, the classy skiing options in Victoria’s High Country may come as either a surprise or a relief.  The big resorts here – Mt Buller, Falls Creek and Mt Hotham – are riddled with runs for everyone from short-arse snow bunnies to teen-scene snowboarders. It can be a pricey exercise getting here from Melbourne , hiring gear, staying in mountaintop lodges… but the payoff is a unique Australian family experience. Come back in summer for mountain biking, camping, bushwalking and assessing the bakeries in fetching high-country towns such as Beechworth, Mansfield and Bright.

Kangaroo Island

A short hop south of Adelaide , roll onto a car ferry and bob across Backstairs Passage to Kangaroo Island (KI) , South Australia’s most underrated weekender. Big-ticket enticements for kids here include the stinky, grumpy residents at Seal Bay Conservation Park and the appropriately named Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase National Park. In between you’ll find sand dunes (sandboarding!), surf beaches, pelican-feeding sessions , honey farms , fishing jetties, caves and wildlife parks – plenty of kiddie distractions until it’s time for some fish and chips (and a KI wine or two) at the pub in Kingscote.

Is Brisbane Australia’s most kid-friendly city? The Brisbane River is a big plus: ride a ferry around central Brisbane, or chug out to the endearing Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to hug one of the inmates. Back in the city, the riverside South Bank Parklands offer lawns, BBQs, playgrounds and the slow-spinning Wheel of Brisbane . The man-made, lifeguard-patrolled Streets Beach is here too, with shallow water for small swimmers. Further along the riverbank is the amazing treehouse playground at New Farm Park . Too humid for the park? The Queensland Museum & Sciencentre , Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art all have dedicated kids’ activity rooms, interactive experiences and school holiday programs.

Southwest Western Australia

Like Tasmania, southwest Western Australia  is a bite-sized zone that removes the adults-only appeal of lost, empty highways from the travel equation. Don’t miss the astounding Valley of the Giants near Denmark (no, not in Scandinavia) – a 600m-long treetop walk through enormous tingle trees. Other natural enticements for the kids include surfing at Ocean Beach near Walpole, hiking to lookouts in Walpole-Nornalup National Park , climbing the 68m Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree in Warren National Park, beachcombing along Great Ocean Drive near Esperance, and going underground at CaveWorks & Lake Cave near Margaret River and Ngilgi Cave near Yallingup. For mum and dad, offerings from the southwest wine scene will help you reconstitute once the kids are in bed.

Pick up the new edition of Lonely Planet’s Travel With Children online .

For inspiration on how to keep your young explorers entertained whilst on the road – or at home – sign up to the Lonely Planet Kids newsletter .

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FAMILY TOURING AUSTRALIA

Looking for an unforgettable family vacation? Our Aussie family adventures are perfect for bonding and creating lasting memories. From the tropics to the outback, we offer a variety of unique Australian activities that are sure to please the whole family. If you have a specific interest in mind, let us know and we'll tailor your experience accordingly. Check out our selection of family friendly itineraries below, or contact our local travel experts to create a custom itinerary that's dinky di Aussie approved.

Contrasts of Northern Territory Tour

• Self Drive Tour
• 5 days/4 night Journey from Darwin to Darwin
• Hotel 4 star

Escape to the Northern Territory's red deserts, crystal-clear waterholes, and tropical wetlands. Discover the ancient Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, witn...

Escape to the Northern Territory's red deserts, crystal-clear waterholes, and tropical wetlands. Discover the ancient Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, witness crocodiles in their natural habitats, and learn about local Aboriginal communities. This tour offers a glimpse into the region's stunning landscapes and rich heritage.

Wildlife, Waterfalls & Ocean Tour

• 8 days/7 night Journey from Melbourne to Melbourne

Drive past iconic surf beaches, the 12 Apostles, the Great Ocean Road, one of the world's most scenic drives. See native wildlife in their natural habitats. Exp...

Drive past iconic surf beaches, the 12 Apostles, the Great Ocean Road, one of the world's most scenic drives. See native wildlife in their natural habitats. Explore walking trails, waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art at Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and learn about the gold rush history of Ballarat.

City, Forest & Reef Tour

• Flexible Touring
• 7 days/6 night Journey from Sydney to Cairns

Visit the Blue Mountains before journeying north to experience the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This tour is short in length but packed with ...

Visit the Blue Mountains before journeying north to experience the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This tour is short in length but packed with incredible highlights that will tick all your holiday boxes.

Uncover the South West Tour

• 8 days/7 night Journey from Perth to Perth

Follow the 'Rainbow Coast' in the south of Western Australia from the stunning coastlines to the inland Wheat Belt.

Best of Brisbane City Break

• 5 days/4 night Journey from Brisbane to Brisbane

Explore Brisbane, take a cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, snorkel around Tangalooma Shipwrecks, and visit the iconic Australia Zoo. Brisbane is the ever-sum...

Explore Brisbane, take a cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, snorkel around Tangalooma Shipwrecks, and visit the iconic Australia Zoo. Brisbane is the ever-summer city that boasts perfect weather for both exploring the city, and getting out into nature. This is the ultimate city escape at any time of year!

Epic Eastern Adventure Tour

• 23 days/22 night Journey from Sydney to Melbourne

The whole family will love this epic Australian adventure along the east coast of Australia, filled with unique wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.

East Coast Sun, Sand and Wildlife Tour

• 9 days/8 night Journey from Sydney to Brisbane

Journey along Australia's east coast to experience the laidback vibes and quintessential highlights of this popular route.

Uluru Discovery Tour

• 3 days/2 night Journey from Uluru to Uluru

Watch the sunset over the desert from the back of a camel, cycle your way around one of Australia's Natural Wonders, Uluru, and walk through a field of over 50,...

Watch the sunset over the desert from the back of a camel, cycle your way around one of Australia's Natural Wonders, Uluru, and walk through a field of over 50,000 lights in this incredible exploration of the Red Centre.

Sunshine Coast Nature Discovery Package

• 6 days/5 night Journey from Brisbane to Brisbane

Encounter gentle giants in Hervey Bay, and explore the world's largest sand island - all nestled into Queensland's Sunshine Coast.

Enchanting East Coast Vacation

• 11 days/10 night Journey from Sydney to Brisbane

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Amazing discoveries are around every corner in Australia. Colorful coral reefs that host spectacular wildlife offer the chance for relaxation and adventure. Gleaming cities allow for cultural exploration and gastronomical delights. Explore a country overflowing with charm and beauty with an Australian family vacation. Here, all ages will create lifelong memories.

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16  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,195

From Far North Queensland to New South Wales and from the sands of the Outback to the crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef, your 16-day family Australia tour will immerse you in the marvelous adventures of land and sea. Indulge in intimate encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife, partake in a luxury camping experience, explore the Great Barrier Reef, and learn to surf at Bondi Beach. Whether you spend a day at a wildlife sanctuary or bask in an evening under the stars, you will experience much of the best of Australian during this 16-day vacation.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,675

The allure of Australia’s landscape spans millions of years, and the magnetism of the culture encompasses 40,000 millennia uncovered during your customizable family-friendly tour of Australia. From the Great Barrier Reef to the otherworldly rock formations of Flinders Chase, the white-sand beaches of Sydney to the wildlife living on the plains of Kangaroo Island, immerse your family in the marvels along the coastline and the captivating stories of Dreamtime. Stroll among rocks carved by wind, bask in a panorama from a hot air balloon and explore eucalyptus forest for the family-friendly adventure of a lifetime in Australia.

Dynamic pricing from  $16,635

Feel the magic of a whole continent with this handcrafted luxury family vacation tour to Australia and New Zealand. Each day gently massages a different mood, offering wide-eyed thrills for the children and delightful relaxation for the parents. Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Hobbiton, helicoptering over the fjords; this itinerary excels in delivering daily wonder with a family orientated twist.

Dynamic pricing from  $12,475

Legend gives way to enchantment during your 12-day family-friendly tour of Australia, taking you through the waters of Sydney Harbour, along the sands of the Red Centre, between the dense rainforest at Daintree, and onto the remarkable white sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands. Whether on a surfboard in Bondi, a camel overlooking the desert or on a riverboat in search of crocodiles, the kids will marvel at the natural splendor of the landscape and listen intently to the myths of Dreamtime. Explore unforgettable Australia, enhanced by the charm of sharing the experience with your family.

10  Day Custom Tour

Australia is a land of adventure and discovery, where the family can share the marvels of the Mars-like landscape of the Red Centre and the rainbow colors of the Great Barrier Reef. Ride a camel across the desert landscape at sunrise, as the colors of Uluru change. Search the clear waters of the Coral Sea for sea turtles and dolphins. Listen to the thrilling sound of the didgeridoo and learn how to properly throw a boomerang from the native Aborigines. Your customizable tour immerses the family in culture and exploration for unforgettable experiences bound to bring you closer to one another.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

Your luxury family vacation to Australia takes the family on a one of a kind adventure, where everyday is unique and unforgettable. The rhythmic hum of the didgeridoo tells a story of the landscape and of an Aboriginal tribe. The rainforest blankets the hills and brushes against the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The Great Barrier Reef glows beneath the sea. Red sand and boulders shine underneath the Australian sunlight. The waves of Bondi Beach crash against the shores of Sydney and the azure waters of Coles Bay wade against the coastline of Tasmania.

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Dynamic pricing from  $6,235

From Far North Queensland to New South Wales, from the sands of the Outback to the crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef, from a day at a wildlife sanctuary to a night under the stars, and from the young to the young at heart, every member of your family is sure to never forget this ultimate Australian vacation.

Blending city sites with beach time and wildlife enchantment, this 10-day Australia kangaroo safari has been expertly handcrafted for families. Spend three days in Melbourne with koalas and Aboriginal art, three days on a Kangaroo Island wilderness safari, and four days of discovering the best of urban and natural Sydney. Expect sublime family experiences with authentic Australia.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,595

From dramatic woodlands to dynamic wildlife, sea turtles to sailing excursions, your 8-day family-friendly Australia tour will immerse you in the adventure of discovery. You will wander through the heart of the Kuranda Rainforest and take private surf lessons on a celebrated beach. Whether cycling through Sydney or snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, your family will create timeless memories together by celebrating active exploration.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,245

Listen to the stories of dream time accompany the rhythmic hum of the didgeridoo. Dive into the water and explore the rainbow-like world of the Great Barrier Reef. Stand atop a mountain plateau and look out over a vast valley framed by rock spires and overflowing with verdant trees. Your family friendly tour of Australia’s east coast will create treasured life long memories for the entire family. Travel up the east coast, from Sydney to Cairns, and discover the opulent shores and exceptional cities that connect cosmopolitan culture to unparalleled nature.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,545

Koalas and kangaroos return your gaze, and tropical islands provide space to drift off as a family. Camels take you into the outback and beside the silhouette of Uluru and an Australian bush experience awaits in the Blue Mountains. The city of Sydney provides a beautiful introduction to urban Australia, and there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy. This two-week tour is handcrafted for families of all ages, mixing five famous sides to the Australian experience with the city, bush, outback, and incredible wildlife.

15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,040

See the best of Australia on this exquisite 15-day city and wilderness vacation beginning in Melbourne and ending in Sydney. Along the way, you will marvel at the Australian outback as well as its illustrious rainforests before witnessing the Great Barrier Reef in all its natural glory. The best destinations in the country await your arrival and discovery during these moments of magic in the land down under.

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Action-packed Australia travel itineraries for every length of trip

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During our family’s gap year trip around the world , we spent a generous seven weeks touring around Australia, hitting five different states including countless cities, towns, villages and national parks. For most of the world, Australia is not close or inexpensive to get to – we figured we might as well explore as much as possible once we got there! If your family is considering a trip Down Under, check out our best itineraries for Australia, the top things to do in Australia with kids and our tips for visiting Australia on a budget (as much as possible – the country is expensive compared to many others, no matter how you slice it).

A note about car seats in Australia

Be advised that Australia has very specific laws on car seat usage. While most countries allow visitors to use their approved seats from home, in Australia it is only legal to use seats that meet the joint Australia/New Zealand standard.

We have heard that enforcement of that rule is most stringent in Victoria (Melbourne) and New South Wales (Sydney) and we spent tons of time there road tripping, so we opted to rent car seats with our car rental for that leg of our journey. You may be able to get away with using a US- or European-approved full-size car seat (NO backless boosters allowed) but if you are stopped it is a ticketable offense.

We used our portable car seats for the rest of our time in Australia without incident. Find out more in our detailed guide to travel with car seats .

Best itineraries for Australia

Every family has their own time constraints when planning a vacation – school, work and money all come into play. In general, we’d recommend allowing at least two weeks for a trip around Australia. It will probably take a few days to adjust to the very different time zone and the country is massive.

Itinerary for one week in Australia

Sydney area – 3 days

Port Douglas – 4 days

If you can really only muster one week to visit Australia, we recommend spending two or three days in Sydney (since you most likely have to fly there anyway) and then fly up to Cairns to explore  tropical North Queensland for the remaining time. This east coast Australia itinerary will show you some of the country’s highlights in a very short time. If possible, book an open jaw ticket that arrives in Sydney and departs from Cairns. If that isn’t possible, there are many affordable flights connecting the two airports.

While we liked Sydney, we found that it’s similar enough to other major cities (like our home base in Los Angeles) that it doesn’t warrant that much time. In your two days you can hit the highlights: take in a view of the Opera House from the Royal Botanical Gardens, pop into the Art Gallery of New South Wales for a brief visit to see some contemporary Aboriginal art, enjoy a ferry across the harbor, and tackle the famed coastal walk between Bondi and Bronte beaches. If you have a few extra hours, we’ve heard that Taronga Zoo is lovely and has wonderful views (though it’s very expensive to visit).

You may also need a little time to let your body adjust to the time difference, but the good news is that Sydney’s bountiful sunshine and clean coastal air should speed up the process. Check out these tips for beating jetlag with little kids.

Far North tropical Queensland, on the other hand, offers a much more unique experience! There are so many awesome things to do in Cairns and Port Douglas that you won’t find anywhere else in the world – like walking rainforest bush tracks with an Aboriginal guide or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef . Check out our full itinerary for five days in Port Douglas .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Port Douglas, Australia

Australia itinerary: 2 weeks

Sydney area – 7 days

Port Douglas – 7 days

With two weeks to visit Australia, you can give Sydney and the surrounding area a more complete look and at a slower pace. In addition to the activities mentioned above, consider taking a day trip or two outside of the city. Kaiama is just two hours away by train, and gives you a taste of the charming seaside towns and impressive blowholes that dot the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales. While we didn’t make it to the Blue Mountains, that’s another easy day trip by train if you’re interested in seeing waterfalls and doing some hiking.  Check out these awesome spots in New South Wales !

Allow a week to explore the tropics   with our Cairns itinerary. You’ll see the rainforest, the reef and more. You can consider heading to one of the nearby islands for crocodile-free swimming and snorkeling, exploring Cape Tribulation or spending a little time in the city of Cairns at its stunning botanical garden (or the super-cool playground). If you’re looking for an Australia itinerary for 10 days, just cut two days off of Sydney and Queensland each.

Australia itinerary: 3 weeks

Melbourne area – 5 days

Sapphire Coast drive – 6 days

Sydney area – 5 days

Port Douglas – 5 days

If you can allow three weeks for your time in Australia, things start to get really interesting! Instead of zooming around taking in high-impact tourist sites every day, you’ll have time to slow down and travel through one of our favorite parts of Australia, the Sapphire Coast !

Rather than starting in Sydney, book your tickets to fly into Melbourne . Spend a few days exploring the city and nearby areas – some of our top things to do in Melbourne include family-favorite ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), eating at Lakhsa King, a daytrip to the nearby Mornington Peninsula for a winery lunch and tasting at Foxey’s Hangout and a one-night trip along the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles. Consider taking a trip out to Phillip Island to see the nightly penguin parade !  If you’re visiting with kids, check out these family-friendly Melbourne activities suggested by a local.

While we opted to rent a car in Australia to go explore outside of the cities and found it very easy, if you aren’t comfortable driving overseas you can always research one of these Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne and spend the rest of your time in the city.

With a rental car at your disposal, drive the whole way up from Melbourne to Sydney instead of flying! There are so many picture-perfect coastal towns, peaceful natural parks and secluded beaches that it’s impossible to see everything. You’ll have amazing opportunities to see Australia’s most famous residents in their natural habitat. We spent four nights on the drive, and would have spent more if we’d known just how amazing the region is. Check out our complete guide to the drive from Melbourne to Sydney .

Be aware that the car rental companies do charge a one-way drop off fee – and if you pick up your car at the airport, even that fee will be subject to the extra airport surcharge. If you rent car seats, those will be subject to the airport surcharge. It’s extremely frustrating! Our advice ( which we sadly didn’t follow ) is to pick up the car in town when you need it rather than from the airport. Check our rentalcars.com for the best rates.

Once you get to Sydney, check back above for our two week itinerary to find out our top things to do in Sydney and a full itinerary for visiting Queensland .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Sapphire Coast drive, Australia here

Australia itinerary: 4 weeks (or more!)

Perth/ Margaret River or Red Center or Tasmania – 7 days

If you plan to spend a month or more, you can follow our three week itinerary for Australia above and then tack on a visit to Western Australia (including Perth and Margaret River), to Australia’s Red Center to see majestic Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) rising from the desert (make sure to pack these essentials if you’re heading to the outback) or even to rugged Tasmania.

We really debated which of these areas to visit, and we decided on WA and Tassie. Visiting Uluru has long been one of my dream destinations, but we were in Australia during the hottest part of summer and we were pretty sure the kids would be miserable in the inhospitable temperatures surrounded by hoards of flies ( every single person we know who has visited told us about the flies!). There are several ways to get to Uluru – you can fly to Ayers Rock Airport directly or you can fly to Alice Springs and then drive 450km. We hope to include a visit to the Red Center on our next family trip to Australia!

Western Australia, on the other hand, is extremely family friendly and easy to access! We took a non-stop flight on Jetstar from Cairns to Perth, and then enjoyed five days each in Perth and Margaret River at free HomeExchange homes. Check out our favorite things to do in Margaret River with kids , or learn about our action-packed day tour from Perth to see the famous Pinnacles of WA.

If you have more time in Western Australia (and perhaps even the inclination to rent a camper van) there are tons of places off the beaten path to explore. Check out this awesome two-week itinerary for road tripping Western Australia !

Tasmania was our first stop in Australia, and flights are blessedly cheap between the island’s two airports and Melbourne on the mainland. Beware the open-jaw here: you’d have to pay a one-way drop off fee, but the drive between the two airports is just an easy two hour trip. We decided to save the money and fly in and out of Hobart. Though we spent ten days in Tassie, in truth it would take much more to explore all of its offerings. We didn’t see the unspoiled west side at all! We split our time between Hobart, Bicheno and the Tamar Valley just north of Launceston. Our top things to do in Tasmania include:

Things to do in Hobart

-visiting Port Arthur Historic Site (make sure to head out to Eaglehawk Neck for some awesome fish ‘n chips next to the blowhole)

-an afternoon exploring Richmond (see the bridge and old gaol/jail, and eat ice cream)

-a wine tasting lunch at Cole Valley Winery (buy some bread to take with you!)

-meeting the creatures of Bonorong Wildlife Reserve

Things to do in Bicheno

– kayaking Coles Bay at sunset

-tracking tiny penguins along the beach

-eating amazing fish ‘n chips at the harbor

-taking the very affordable glass-bottom boat tour

Things to do in Tamar Valley

-wine tasting at Holm Oak

-visiting Platypus House to learn about Australia’s unique monotremes

-soaring across Cataract Gorge

Another option, especially if you already plan to drive out on the Great Ocean Road, is to pay a visit to South Australia. You can enjoy the city of Adelaide, taste wine in the Barossa Valley, explore Kangaroo Island and much more. Check out what our Aussie friends at Thrifty Family Travels recommend to do in South Australia  and Gold Coast .

Read more: Best things to do in Gold Coast with kids

Tips to budget travel Australia

We aren’t ultra-low budget travelers. But we do try to save money where possible without scrimping on the experiences that make a destination special. Australia is not a cheap place to travel. Our visit to Tasmania (which coincided with school holidays, and for which we didn’t book accommodations very far in advance) was one of our most expensive travel periods during our gap year! Here are a few hints we found for saving money while traveling in Australia

Thinking of making your trip to Australia permanent? Throw yourself an Aussie-themed going away party !

How to save on accommodation in Australia

We were really lucky to be hosted by friends and family for a good chunk of our time in Australia. Thanks guys! We also found wonderful HomeExchange homes to stay in for free during our time in Perth and Margaret River – find out more about HomeExchange here . There are also many options for HomeExchange in Melbourne and Sydney, though in the end we didn’t need to use them. We probably wouldn’t have stayed for as long without the free accommodation we scored.

For all of our other destinations, we used booking.com to find family-friendly places to stay in Australia. Now that we’re such frequent customers, we even get 10% off most bookings with our Genius discount! Check out our favorite simple tips to save more on every reservation.

How to save on food in Australia

Restaurant dining in Australia is pricey thanks to the requirement that workers be paid a living wage and the overall higher cost of food. There isn’t much way around that! We found that by arranging accommodations through HomeExchange or booking.com with a kitchen, we could prepare most of our own meals but still take advantage of Australia’s amazing local produce, meat and dairy. We also ate an unbelievable number of PB&J sandwiches, especially when we were staying on our own.

How to save on flights in Australia

We had been warned about flying Australian low-cost carrier Jet Star. In the end, they offered not only the lowest prices but also the best flight schedules for every single leg! We ended up with three flights on Jetstar and the service was basic but pleasant. We honestly have no complaints. We saved money on Jetstar by paying $49 upfront to join Club Jetstar, which offered additional discounts on tickets and add-ons. We booked the Starter fare for every flight, added seat assignments for everyone and  then added only two bags . If we had booked tickets at the Starter Plus level, we would have been paying for two extra bags even though the kids didn’t have luggage! Check our family-favorite Skyscanner for the best flight deals. If you have points with Qantas or Virgin Australia, read about these tricks for maximizing your distance-based awards.

How to save on rental cars in Australia

As I mentioned above, we always find our best rental car deals on rentalcars.com . Fortunately, travelers with the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Ink for Business credit cards can reject all of the insurance offers and use the free credit card coverage in case an issue arises. Our biggest unexpected expense was that the airports impose their extra 30% airport fee even on additional charges like one-way drop off fees and car seat rentals. Boooo! Whether you choose to pick up your rental car in Sydney or in Melbourne, neither city requires a car to get around. So either skip the car entirely, or pick it up in town when you  really need it.

Start planning your trip to Australia

Be sure to read these articles to jumpstart your Australia trip planning!

• Melbourne to Sydney drive: the ultimate guide
• Your 5 day Australia adventure in Port Douglas
• Quicksilver Reef Cruises: the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef with kids
• The best way to visit Kuranda, the village in Australia’s rainforest
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: a family-friendly crocodile tour in Cairns
• The Best 10 Things to do on the Gold Coast with Kids
• An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Kangaroo Island, Australia
• Top 7 awesome family experiences in Margaret River
• A spectacular way to see Coles Bay, Tasmania: kayaking with Freycinet Adventures

What to read next

8 thoughts on “action-packed australia travel itineraries for every length of trip”.

What a great guide! Australia is totally on my bucket list one day!

I’m so glad you found it useful!

Great blog post! Australia is on my travel bucket list. This was so informative! Thank you! ~Elizabeth

Thanks! You’ll get there one day ?

Some good tips here. I loved the port douglas area! Another place Id recommend is byron bay – i lived there for 2 years and theres something very special and unique about that place!

It looks so beautiful! When we eventually get back, I’d definitely like to explore the rest of coastal Queensland more ?

That sounds wonderful. This trip is now on my to-go list! And to go soon! Australia is sooo beautiful.

Australia was one of my favorite trips! When we travel as a family, I love to find engaging books for the kids to read before and during the trip. As a librarian, educator, and mom – here are some of my choices that other travelers to Australia might enjoy! http://storybooklists.com/country/storybooks-with-australia

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Luxury Australia Tours

Sydney, Rock & Reef (8 Days) Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Tropical North Queensland, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

Highlights of Australia (11 Days) Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Melbourne & Phillip Island, Great Barrier Reef

Introduction to Australia (7 Days) Sydney, Great Barrier Reef

Best of Australia (17 Days) Sydney, Kangaroo Island, Melbourne & Phillip Island, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

Romantic Australia (11 Days) Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Daintree Forest, Great Barrier Reef

Essence of Australia (14 Days) Melbourne & Phillip Island, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney

Family Tour of Australia (10 Days) Sydney, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

Food & Wine Tour of Australia (12 Days) Melbourne, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Barossa, Adelaide, McLaren Vale, Margaret River, Perth

Journey Through Australia (20 Days) Sydney, Kangaroo Island, Melbourne, Uluru, Bamurru Plains & Kakadu, Daintree Rainforest, Lizard Island

Best of Southern Australia (14 Days) Melbourne, Hobart, Freycinet Peninsula, Barossa, Kangaroo Island, Sydney

Australia Luxury Adventure (16 Days) Sydney, Arkaba & Flinders Ranges, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

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Exclusive Australia (20 Days) Sydney, Tasmania, Melbourne, Kangaroo Island, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

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Best of Australia & New Zealand (16 Days) Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, Auckland, Rotorua & Taupo, Queenstown & Milford Sound

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Family Tour of Australia

( 10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Sydney, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef

Australia is a wonderful destination for families. This private family tour of Australia includes private touring, luxury resorts, and family-friendly activities customized to the ages of the travelers, including options such as getting close to koalas and other native animals, sailing in Sydney Harbour, drift snorkeling down a river in the Daintree Rainforest, learning about indigenous culture and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef.

Begin in Sydney , Australia's most beautiful city. Enjoy a private insider tour of the city highlights, including the historic Rocks district, vibrant markets, favorite neighborhoods such as Paddington, the Royal Botanic Garden, Aboriginal art galleries and iconic Bondi Beach. One day, Artisans of Leisure will arrange a private tour of the Sydney Opera House and tickets to a performance. One morning, enjoy an exhilarating Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb experience. One afternoon, take an exclusive private boat ride on Sydney Harbour. During free time, enjoy the city’s sophisticated restaurants, shops and harborside attractions. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange other special interest activities such as a private surfing lesson, a behind-the-scenes wildlife experience, a private tasting tour, kayaking in the harbor and Sydney Skywalk.

Continue to Tropical North Queensland, and stay at Silky Oaks, a luxury lodge in the Daintree Rainforest . During private touring, learn about the unique ecosystem of the ancient tropical rainforest and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a private boat ride on the Daintree River. Also visit Mossman Gorge, and if desired, enjoy drift snorkeling on the Mossman River. Another day, visit Kuranda and ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Also, enjoy a private Aboriginal craft lesson. Upon request, we can arrange additional activities in the area, such as hot-air balloon rides, sea kayaking along the coast, “breakfast with the birds” at a local wildlife reserve and other family activities, and in-depth tours of the rainforest with a local Aboriginal guide.

Next, spend several days at spectacular Lizard Island, the best luxury resort in the Great Barrier Reef . One day, enjoy a snorkeling excursion to the outer reef. Artisans of Leisure will also arrange a private tour of the island’s coral reef research station. During free time at the resort, enjoy superb cuisine and activities such as snorkeling, swimming, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, beach picnics, tennis, motorized dinghy rides, glass-bottom boat rides, nature walks and hikes. Upon request, we can also arrange scuba diving, scuba lessons, sunset cruises, private fishing excursions and more.

Return to Sydney for a final night before your onward flight.

This tour can be further personalized with additional time or destinations in Australia.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

You get an A+ for arranging our trip to Australia. We had a grand time and it was worth every penny. ~ H.M., Houston, TX

Australia was fantastic. The guides were among the best we have ever had. Your logistics were great and everything worked like clockwork. Thank you for your hard work in making all of the arrangements. All of the effort showed in the results.  ~ M.K., Overland Park, KS

We had an absolutely fabulous time in Australia and New Zealand. Everything was sensational. You have made us so tremendously happy. We will go wherever you say. We can’t thank you enough. ~ M.F., Santa Monica, CA

We’ve now taken three trips with Artisans of Leisure and continue to be impressed with everything you do for us. The Australia trip was absolute perfection. We can’t thank you enough. ~ L.S., New York, NY

Our Australia trip was perfect. Artisans of Leisure, bar none, provided the most memorable trip that my wife and I have ever been on in our lives. For that I will always be grateful. ~ B.J., Columbus, OH

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Family-friendly adventures & stress free travel

Just because you’ve had kids, doesn’t mean your travelling days are over. We’ll take you to the best family holiday spots and beyond, with family-friendly stays and experiences that will spark the joy of travel, make real connections, and excite the whole family.

Adventure for all ages

Our family getaways feature experiences that keep everyone happy, from little ones to teenagers and adults. Visit the Harry Potter highlights like Platform 9¾, sail around the Greek Islands, become a medieval archer in Ireland or an archery pro in England, learn how to make (and eat!) pizza in Italy, or go ziplining on the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica.

Enriching experiences

Inspire your family’s sense of adventure and watch your children light up with wonder. The best family holidays are full of pinch-me moments, like staying in an ancient castle in Wales or a ranch in the Wild West of America. Learn about wildlife conservation in Costa Rica, experience life on a family farm in Ireland, or learn about Roman history by transforming into a gladiator!

Taking the stress out of travel

With all the logistics and must-do experiences covered, the only thing you need to worry about is having fun, together. Expect quality stays, luxury transport and plenty of meals included - and that means a whole lot of full tummies and happy faces. Our expert Travel Directors unlock the magic of travel at every turn, so you can focus on making memories and exploring the world together.

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How can i travel with my family on a budget.

With kid-friendly accommodation, meals and transport included on our family holidays, you can easily stick to your budget and focus on having fun. We also include all the must-do experiences, and let you know all the optional experiences before your family tour, so you won’t be hit with any surprise costs.

What's the best family holiday destination?

Family friendly holidays can be found all over the world, from the outback of the United States to the jungles of Costa Rica to the islands of Greece. Some of our favourite family holiday spots include Italy, Switzerland, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Costa Rica and the United States.

What are good family trips?

The best family holidays include adventures that are fun for the whole family. We love family beach holidays to places like Greece and Costa Rica, historical adventures like experiencing life as a gladiator in Italy, and nature trips like boarding an Old West train to the Grand Canyon.

Why is family travel important?

Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers. From grandparents to kids, everyone will learn new skills and discover a world of cultures and new ideas while spending precious time together, like only family holidays can bring. Your journey will also inspire a sense of wonder and connection for all, and we think that’s one of the most valuable things you can have in life.

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Family Travel

Traveling to the South Pacific is perfect for families, whether you’re traveling with young children, taking a sibling getaway, or enjoying a multigenerational adventure! Family travel has always been popular in places like New Zealand and Australia, and our team of travel experts at Down Under Endeavours would love to specialize a trip for you and your family.

Your family vacation can check off everyone’s bucket list items, no matter their age. Take a look through our family travel packages to find ideas for your next trip!

• Take your family to enjoy the adventure in New Zealand
• Relax on a beach in the Cook Islands
• Go on a family wildlife adventure in Australia complete with a koala cuddling experience
• Enjoy a family-friendly getaway in Fiji
• Spend the night at the Taronga Zoo in Sydney

When you’re ready to plan your handcrafted family adventure, give us a call and let our luxury travel designers handcraft the trip of your dreams!

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Australia Family Vacation Packages: Beaches and Wildlife

See Australia highlights like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney, as well as the best beaches and exclusive wildlife encounters. Take the Australia family vacation of a lifetime!

Visit New Zealand’s 3 best cities on this New Zealand Highlights tour. Get unique experiences like a cruise in Milford Sound, a Wellington foodie tour, wine tasting, and more!

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Explore the Great Barrier Reef in style! 4-star hotels, transfers, and activities included.

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Australia family tour: Sydney, national parks & Great Barrier Reef

Stay in some lovely two bedroom apartments suitable for the family.

Visit the scenic Blue Mountains and keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos.

4x4 excursion to Rainbow Beach.

Take a reef trip on the Great Barrier Reef.

14 days from $4,470pp

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Southeast discovered

Sample some of Australia's finest wines in the Barossa Valley.

Drive along the dramatic Great Ocean Road west of Melbourne.

Join a walking tour of Melbourne's hidden laneways.

Hike through the beautiful Blue Mountains to the west of Sydney.

Enjoy a surfing lesson on Bondi Beach.

18 days from $4,985pp

Highlights of Australia — city, outback & reef

Dive into Melbourne's vibrant arts scene and quaint laneways, brimming with coffee culture.

Experience Sydney's iconic Opera House and stunning harbour views on a lunch cruise.

Walk the sacred grounds of Uluru at sunset, embracing the heart of the Outback.

Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, witnessing a kaleidoscope of marine life.

Adventure through the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest, exploring ancient flora and unique wildlife.

13 days from $9,450pp

Classic Tasmania self-drive tour

Browse the Salamanca Markets in Hobart for local arts and crafts, surrounded by the historical harbor buildings.

Cruise the Gordon River and take in the local flora, fauna and convict history.

Get up close to the elusive Tasmanian Devils at Cradle Mountain National Park.

Walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout in Freycinet National Park and take your own pictures of one of Australia's most photographed beaches.

10 days from $3,270pp

Western Australia's Coral Coast

Marvel at the spectacular marine life including manta rays, whale sharks and turtles.

Explore the historic town of Fremantle, with its convict jails, whaling ships and old taverns.

Take a sunset walk along a deserted beach.

Explore the national parks to view canyons and dramatic rock formations.

13 days from $3,700pp

South Australia's wine, wildlife & outback self-drive

Explore Kangaroo Island.

Visit the lesser visited Fleurieu Peninsula.

Enjoy stays in both the Clare and Barossa Valley.

Take a scenic flight over the Flinders Ranges.

Stay in the beautiful Flinders Ranges Outback.

9 days from $4,190pp

By the beach

Visit Sydney's stylish city beaches.

Explore the national parks and chalky white sand of Jervis Bay.

Sample wines from the Hunter Valley.

Enjoy a food tour of the Byron Bay region.

13 days from $4,440pp

Southwest Australia — beaches, wine & wildlife

Take an exhilarating helicopter flight over Esperance's Pink Lake and Cape Le Grand National Park.

Sample fabulous local wines and enjoy pristine beaches in the Margaret River region.

Wander through towering ancient karri forests in Pemberton.

Experience ancient Aboriginal culture deep underground in the Ngilgi Caves.

Explore historic Fremantle, with its craft breweries, vibrant markets and UNESCO-listed Fremantle Prison.

13 days from $4,495pp

Aboriginal Australia tour: Darwin to Adelaide

Shop at the Mindi Beach craft markets.

See first-hand the stunning rock art of Arnhem Land.

Take a cruise on the Yellow Waters in the Kakadu National Park and see a plethora of birdlife here.

Experience Kata Tjuta at sunrise and Uluru at sunset and simply absorb the beauty of this unique part of the world.

11 days from $4,995pp

Wine & wildlife — Australia’s ultimate safari

Discover the native wildlife of Kangaroo Island.

Learn the history of South Australia’s world-famous wine regions.

Explore the beautiful Flinders Ranges Outback.

Meet the inquisitive local quokkas of Rottnest Island.

Swim with whale sharks or humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef.

Discover wine, food and arts in the world-renowned Margaret River region.

17 days from $8,340pp

Coast, outback & reef, the eco friendly way

Explore the Australian Outback and Flinders Ranges.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef from Pumpkin Island.

Marvel at the passing scenery on the iconic Indian Pacific train.

Be a sustainable traveler and minimize your impact on the environment.

22 days from $8,735pp

Australia's great walks: Tasmania & Western Australia

Explore Hobart’s weird and wonderful Museum of Old and New Art, before embarking on a privately guided tour of the experimental vineyard on site.

Visit Maria Island on a guided four-day walk, home to an astonishing abundance of wildlife and diverse natural beauty.

Explore quirky Fremantle, where rickety wooden buildings juxtapose hip new boutiques and eateries.

Discover the towering karri forests, premium wineries, pristine coastline and diverse wildlife of the Cape to Cape Track.

Experience an exhilarating seaplane flight over Rottnest Island, home of the famous quokka and some of Australia’s best beaches.

15 days from $9,220pp

Luxury Australia family expedition

Experience a sunrise over Melbourne in a hot air balloon.

Cruise through the world's oldest living rainforest, looking for crocodiles.

Snorkel with tropical fish on the Great Barrier Reef.

Paddle through the Australian Everglades.

Enjoy a private family surf lesson on the iconic Bondi Beach.

14 days from $9,995pp

Australia & New Zealand uncovered

Explore Sydney's iconic highlights.

Watch the sunset over the magnificent Uluru/Ayers Rock.

Snorkel the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Explore New Zealand's rugged and mountainous landscape.

Visit world-famous wineries in the Blenheim winelands.

Cruise the beautiful Doubtful Sound.

20 days from $11,900pp

Western Australia's ultimate wildlife journey

Explore the vibrant city of Perth on a private walking tour.

Meet the inquisitive local quokkas on Rottnest Island.

Dive with whale sharks or humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef.

Hike a stunning section of the Cape to Cape Track stopping for a gourmet four-course lunch.

Stay in some of the finest accommodation that Western Australia has to offer.

11 days from $13,105pp

Sydney to Auckland voyage with Silversea Cruises

Enjoy fantastic service and full board in a luxurious Club Veranda Suite on Silversea Cruises.

Visit many of New Zealand's key highlights, and a few key destinations in Australia, during your 16-day cruise.

Get to know Sydney through the eyes of a local as well as tours of its main icons: Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Take in a Maori performance and shared full day tour from Auckland.

21 days from $16,415pp

The Kimberley by land, air and sea

Discover the remote Kimberley Coast on a ten-night luxury cruise with Coral Expeditions.

Enjoy an exhilarating scenic flight over Purnululu and the Bungle Bungle Ranges.

Immerse yourself in rugged Outback at El Questro Station.

Explore cosmopolitan Broome, and enjoy a sundowner by Cable Beach.

20 days from $16,995pp

Outback life

Take a luxurious three night train journey on The Ghan Expedition.

Explore Litchfield National Park along with its stunning waterfalls and scenic walks.

Discover Arnhem Land and the local Aboriginal culture around Mount Borradaile.

Immerse yourself in the Northern Territory's coastal floodplains to spot bird and wildlife.

12 days from $18,800pp

Cruising the Kimberley onboard the True North

Explore the vibrant city of Perth from a luxurious hotel.

Spend time in the cosmopolitan town of Broome and enjoy a sundowner by Cable Beach.

Immerse yourself in the Kimberley onboard a seven-night luxury True North expedition cruise.

Explore the immense El Questro station from a luxury homestead.

Take a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle.

16 days from $19,740pp

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

Experience the vibrant Sydney restaurant scene.

Sail around Sydney Harbour on board a private yacht.

Learn to surf on Bondi Beach.

Take a spectacular helicopter flight from Sydney to the Blue Mountains.

Eat freshly caught seafood in Tasmania.

Take a flight into one of the most untouched regions of Tasmania.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a private catamaran.

17 days from $38,900pp

Speak to our Australia specialists to plan your tailor-made itinerary

Some of our favorite travel guides, the kimberley by land and by sea, the top end: 3 essential experiences in australia’s northern territory, cruises in australia, live (it up) like a local: why stay in a luxury australian private home, what to do in tasmania: our highlights guide, shining a spotlight on south australia's wildlife & landscapes, the top 5 experiences in western australia, stay in an australian outback homestead, the great barrier reef: find the right experience for you, tasmania’s 10 best hiking trails.

An expedition cruise, Zodiac boat trips or hikes and stays on cattle ranches: two members of our Australia team share how to best experience the Kimberley, both overland and overwater, and define the allure of this Outback region.

Explore gorges and canyons that reveal hidden Aboriginal rock art, take a lesson on mustering cattle, journey along a dusty four-wheel-drive track and escape to a coastal retreat on a tailor-made vacation with us in the Kimberley.

Explore the possibilities for small-ship cruises in Australia, including the best options for sailing the Great Barrier Reef and the remote Kimberley region. You can also find out about an excellent day cruise (with a theatrical twist) in Tasmania.

Want to sample the Australian good life in chic, comfortable surrounds? Audley Australia specialist Vina explains why you might like to stay in a luxe beachside or city private home on your Australia trip, rather than a traditional hotel.

Australia expert Haley explains why Tasmania shouldn’t be overlooked on a trip to Australia. From farm-to-table dining to expansive walking trails along rugged coastlines and getting a glimpse of wild Tasmanian devils and fluffy wombats, this island has much to discover.

Vacations to South Australia can include scenic drives and hikes as well as close-up wildlife viewing, explain Audley specialists Tom and Matt. They highlight the best places to go in the region — Kangaroo Island and Flinders Ranges — and why.

A visit to Western Australia allows you to seamlessly blend delectable food, vibrant wines, and abundant wildlife experiences. From snorkelling among humpback whales in Ningaloo Marine Park to walking over the tops of towering trees in Pemberton, the top experiences in Western Australia will give you a 360-view of this not-to-miss region.

Stay on a cattle station or homestead and experience life in the Outback for a few days as part of a tailor-made trip to Australia. We'll arrange for you to stay in a station, or farm, in comfort and beautiful surroundings while you sample life as a jackaroo, or farm hand.

The Great Barrier Reef is somewhere we’ve all pictured, but your experience there can vary depending on where you stay. Australia specialist Louise shares her favorite spots to help you find the right option for you.

A hiker’s paradise, Tasmania has some of the most interesting walks in all of Australia. From multi-day coastal treks to gentle paths leading to multi-tier waterfalls, we share the best hiking trails in Tasmania.

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Discover the world with cosmos, the world within reach.

With more than 60 years of sharing the world with value-minded travellers, we’ll help you turn your bucket list into a “better-than-I-dreamed” list. From Europe's grand cathedrals to America’s Grand Canyon, we’ll show you the treasures of the world like only Cosmos can – without spending a king’s ransom.

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We take care of all the travel essentials, including hand-picked hotels, knowledgeable guides, seamless transportation, and sightseeing at the must-see sites, leaving you to immerse yourself fully in each destination.

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It’s not just the places that make a journey incredible, it’s also the people. Cosmos tours include Tour Directors and Local Guides – experts who know the legends and logistics of your destination, sharing the tales that bring the sights and scenes to life.

Explore Your Way

We know there are a dozen different ways you like to explore, which is why Cosmos gives you the freedom and flexibility to go your own way. From undiscovered journeys that explore off-the-beaten-path to multi-country panoramas that tick off Europe’s most iconic sites, Cosmos has a tour to suit every type of traveller.

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We’re dedicated to protecting the places we visit. By using environmentally friendly motorcoaches and partnering with preservation and sustainability initiatives, we’re helping ensure the world’s icons will be here to thrill travellers for generations to come.

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Discover two of South America's greatest cities—Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires

HEART OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

Experience this breathtaking scenery and enjoy thrilling experiences as you overnight in Calgary, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Kamloops, Victoria, and Vancouver.

Earn Qantas Frequent Flyer Points on your next Cosmos Tour!

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Providing you with the best russian tours, our reviews, russian travel update.

Russia is open for international travelers regardless their citizenship/country of residence. Tourist visas are being issued in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, EU, Japan, and worldwide. Electronic visas (up to 16 days of stay, single entry) are available for the following nationals: Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cyprus, China, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Vatican, Vietnam.

You can bring foreign currency and exchange money freely in Russia. You can open a bank account and g et a debit card in one hour time, once you will have arrived, we assist.

Medical insurance is available for international travelers through Russian insurance companies.

International flights to Moscow and St Petersburg are available via Tbilisi (Georgia), Yerevan (Armenia), Baku (Azerbaijan), Istanbul (Turkey), Belgrade (Serbia), Dubai & Abu-Dhabi (UEA), Doha (Qatar), Algiers (Algeria),Tehran (Iran), Muscat (Oman), Cairo (Egypt), Astana & Almaty (Kazakhstan), Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Qingdao & Xian (China), Delhi (India), Colombo (Sri-Lanka), Male (Maldives). Information changes frequently, please inquire.

Trans-Siberian travels can fly in/out Vladivostok via Beijing (China), Harbin (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Tashkent (Uzbekistan).

Trans-Siberians taking off in Irkutsk/Lake Baikal, fly to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Dushanbe (Tadjikistan), Namangan (Uzbekistan), Osh (Uzbekistan), Beijing Daxing (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Ulaaanbaatar (Mongolia).

Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

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Australia Tours & Holidays

Natural beauty, an ancient culture and fascinating wildlife - this is Australia like you've never experienced before.

From the dusty red plains of the Northern Territory to the lush mountainscapes of Tassie (and every sun-soaked beach, rocky gorge, and towering ghost gum in between), Australia is extraordinary. But we don’t need to remind you of that. We go a little deeper into the land down under with a focus on connecting with locals, First Nations communities, and like-minded travellers. So, whether you want to snorkel among the jewel-bright fish of the Great Barrier Reef , waterhole-hop your way through the Kimberley or wander the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide, there’s an unforgettable Aussie adventure with your name on it.  

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Canberra (population approximately 467,000)

Approximately 25.69 million

(GMT+10:00) Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

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Learn more about Australia

Best time to visit australia.

Being such a large place, Australia has a wide range of climates, so all year round, there is somewhere great to visit. 

Summer (December to February) can get very hot but is perfect for beach-going and other outdoor activities. In the far north, it is also the wet season, which can get quite humid, and some beaches may be closed due to jellyfish or 'stingers'.

Winter (June to August) is pleasant and dry in the north but can get quite cold in the south, especially in Tasmania and Victoria, where snowfall is common.

Spring and autumn are great times to visit Australia as the weather is milder but still warm enough for swimming in northern areas. 

Regardless of daytime temperatures, nights can get very cold in the desert areas of Central and Western Australia, so prepare accordingly.

The main school holiday period is from Christmas to late January and is considered the peak travel time within Australia; expect popular tourist spots to be crowded during this time.

Read more about the best time to visit Australia

From large malls and boutique shopping strips to weekend arts and crafts markets and vintage shops, Australia is a top place to shop. Shopping in Australia may not be cheap, but there are plenty of unique finds and original souvenirs to bring home. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import certain items back into your home country. New Zealand, for example, has strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Australia

1. First Nation art

The quality of Aboriginal art is excellent in the Top End and Central and Western Australia. Be sure to buy from reputable galleries and organisations to ensure authenticity and fair prices for artists. Community-run organisations are typically the better choice.

If you’re looking for one, Coober Pedy has the best quality and variety on offer.

These precious gems are plentiful in Broome due to the booming pearling industry.

4. Modern art

Melbourne and Hobart are modern art and craft hot spots, making them great places to pick up one-of-a-kind mementos.

Top 10 places to see in Australia

Nothing will prepare you for seeing Australia's most famous landmark for the first time. An important part of Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, this ancient monolith is a photographer's dream as it changes colours with the sun; from dazzling orange to dusty purple.

Combine First Nations' culture and the magnificence of Australia's desert wonders on a 6 day Red Centre & Uluru Explorer tour.

2. Great Barrier Reef

See the world's largest reef system - so big it can be seen from outer space! This World Heritage site, just off the coast of Queensland, is home to whales, dolphins, turtles, sharks, colourful coral and more than 1,500 species of fish. Go scuba diving or snorkelling to explore this incredible underwater world.

See the beauty of the reef and its residents on our 5 day Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree tour.

3. Twelve Apostles

Although there are actually only eight 'Apostles', these spectacular limestone rock stacks are a popular tourist spot along Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Formed by erosion that began 10-20 million years ago, the stacks rise majestically from the churning Southern Ocean. Hit the boardwalks, tracks and viewing areas for spectacular views.

Set off on a Twelve Apostles journey when you 7 day Hike the Great Ocean Walk.

4. Kakadu National Park

This region is a place of breathtaking beauty and incredible biodiversity. Steeped in Dreamtime history, Kakadu nurtures a staggering variety of landscapes and wildlife. Venture deep into the wilderness and discover gushing waterfalls, deep gorges, shimmering waterholes and rocky outcrops adorned with 20,000-year-old art.

Combine the best of history, wildlife, culture and beauty while venturing through a 6 day Top End & Kakadu Explorer tour.

5. Sydney Opera House

Set against a backdrop of that famous bridge that spans the sparkling harbour, the Opera House is one of Australia's most iconic sights. Those familiar sails, adorned with more than a million white tiles, host thousands of events and performances each year. Catch a show to admire the ornate interior, or take in the spectacular view from a ferry.

Climb the Opera House steps or tour the harbour as you start an exciting 18 day East Coast Encompassed tour.

6. Kimberley

From deep gorges and dusty Outback roads and lush rainforests to idyllic billabongs, the landscape of this beautiful region is truly enchanting. A trip to the Kimberly can be as active or relaxing as you wish - hike past the strange 'beehive' domes of the Bungle Bungle Ranges, explore underground caves at Tunnel Creek or simply relax on white sand beaches.

Be swept away by the beauty of the Kimberley on a 11 day Wild Kimberley Overland tour.

7. Daintree

With verdant tropical rainforest stretching to white, sandy beaches, the Daintree is nothing short of spectacular. This complex ecosystem in Far North Queensland is home to a prolific amount of wildlife, including frogs, reptiles, bats and butterflies, as well as the highest concentration of primitive plant species in the world. Australia's largest rainforest is a true natural wonder just waiting to be explored.

Walk among the diverse ecosystems of the Daintree Rainforests while on our 5 day Queensland Daintree Explorer tour.

8. Wineglass Bay

With its white sand, crystal-clear water and distinct crescent shape, Wineglass Bay on Tasmania's gorgeous Freycinet Peninsula is a pristine paradise. It's easy to see why it's often voted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world! Hike a trail to the summit overlooking the bay for breathtaking views, or descend to the beach and set up camp. Go snorkelling to discover colourful fish and perhaps some playful dolphins.

Stroll by the waters of Wineglass Bay on a nature-lovers 6 day Tasmania Adventure tour.

9. Clare Valley

This beautiful wine-producing region is famed for its delicious local produce, picturesque scenery, friendly people and, of course, its fabulous wine. Explore back roads lined with vines and go wine tasting to sample the very best drops this region has to offer.

Cycle and sample your way through one of Australia's oldest wine regions on our 6 day Cycle South Australia's Wine Regions tour.

10. Blue Mountains

Covering over one million hectares, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is rich in verdant rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, looming forests and an abundance of wildlife. Greet the iconic Three Sisters and wander the boardwalks to soak up this breathtaking area of Australian bush.

Walk, trek, and discover the beauty of the rugged New South Wales region home to the Blue Mountains on a 4 day Walk the Blue Mountains trek.

Top destinations to visit in Australia

1. ikara-flinders ranges national park.

Discover Ikara with an Adnyamathanha guide on a tour that shines a light on Adnyamathanha history, uncovers the park’s more recent past, and looks towards the future.

Wander through Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park on our 7 day Flinders Ranges Explorer tour or on our 7 day Walk South Australia's Flinders Ranges tour .

2. Arnhem Land

Explore the rugged wilderness of Arnhem Land , where Australia’s First Nations people have lived for thousands of years. Share Dreamtime stories, learn how to gather local food and create traditional paintings.

Experience Arnhem Land for yourself on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour tour.

3. The West Coast

The West Coast of Australia certainly feels like the Final Frontier. Perhaps visit the red rock gorges of Karijini National Park, take in a camel ride on Cable Beach, or unwind among the vineyards of  Margaret River. 

Marvel at the beauty of the West Coast on our 8 day Hike Western Australia's Cape to Cape Track.

4. Tropical North Queensland

Join an Aboriginal painting class at Janbal Gallery and hear East Coast Kuku Yalanji Dreamtime stories about the animals, environment and language of the Indigenous rainforest people from Mossman and the Daintree rainforest.

Dive into Tropical North Queensland on our 7 day Queensland Coast Adventure or on our 8 day Brisbane to Cairns Adventure.

5. The Kimberley

While Broome could keep you occupied for days, it’s really the Kimberley’s natural beauty that lures you in. Away from the stretches of Cable Beach, you find a region that rapidly unrolls into a world of dense rainforest, underground caves and boab-dotted horizons straight out of Africa. 

Discover the beauty of the Kimberley's on our 5 day Kimberley Family Holiday.

Kakadu National Park is packed with billabongs, waterfalls, strange rock formations and all types of native wildlife. ‘Roos bounce through the bushland, dingoes are spotted along rocky outcrops, dugongs wallow off the coast, and, despite the name, crocs patrol the waters of Alligator River. 

Explore Kakadu National Park on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour or on our 4 day Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Adventure.

7. The Red Centre

Also known as Central Australia, the Red Centre is where Uluru rises from the landscape in all its beauty. But there’s far more to this region than the iconic rock of the Outback. Discover Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and its 36 stunning red domes; Kings Canyon , with its natural amphitheatre and the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uncover the magic of the Red Centre on our 6 day Premium Red Centre & Uluru tour or on our 4 day Uluru & Kings Canyon Family Adventure.

8. The Outback

Experience the untamed beauty of Outback Australia, hear tales of the Aboriginal Dreaming with a First Nations guide, cross incredible scenery in a 4WD, and walk among a carpet of wildflowers in the Flinders Ranges. 

Explore the Outback on our 5 day Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon tour or on our 10 day West Coast & Karijini Overland Adventure.

9. K'gari (Fraser Island)

K'gari (Fraser Island) isn’t just the largest sand island in Queensland, it’s the largest one in the world. Explore the rugged headlands, silica sand beaches, lush rainforests hugging the shore and freshwater lakes that lay hidden throughout this World Heritage-listed island.  

Experience K'gari for yourself on our 14 day Sydney to Cairns Adventure.

10. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a winding coastal route of sandstone cliffs and dense rainforest hinterland that stretches all the way from Torquay in the East to Allansford in the West. While the region is famous for its Twelve Apostles, there are plenty of local secrets to be discovered if you’re willing to take the time.

Drive along the Great Ocean Road on our 6 day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Adventure.

11. Tasmania

This island state turns heads thanks to its thriving gallery and gastronomy scene, plus its bounty of natural wonders. Boasting some of Australia’s finest beaches, mistiest mountaintops, loneliest patches of wilderness and most elusive animals, Tasmania is a nature lover’s wonderland.

Discover Tasmania on our 6 day Highlights of Tasmania tour , on our 4 day Hobert & Southern Tasmania Explorer tour or on our 6 day Trek the Cradle Mountain Overland Track.

See the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, take a dip at Bondi Beach, explore the historic Rocks area and discover everything this cosmopolitan city has to offer.

Marvel at Sydney's iconic sights on our 7 day Sydney to Brisbane Adventure.

13. South Australian outback

Explore the South Australian outback at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary on a 4WD tour that takes in science, education and conservation and showcases this incredible and unique wilderness area.

Delve into the South Australian wilderness on our 10 day South Australia Outback Adventure or on our Outback South Australia & Eyre Peninsula tour .

14. The Great Barrier Reef

Be inspired by the beauty of the world’s largest coral reef – The Great Barrier Reef. Go snorkelling in the warm waters with exotic sea creatures and colourful coral.

Go swimming on our 12 day Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery.

15. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world's most ancient rainforest, the Daintree in Far North Queensland , with a local family who lives in a privately owned part of it.

Experience the serenity of the Daintree Rainforest on our 5 day Daintree Family Holiday or on our 8 day Daintree & Cape Tribulation Adventure.

Geography and environment

The continent of Australia is known for being one of the flattest, hottest and driest places on earth, but despite this, there is an astounding variety of terrains and environments on this island nation. While large areas of Australia are covered in desert, there are also tropical rainforests, alpine snowfields, dense bushland, beaches, gorges, lakes, and rivers to be found.

Australia’s national parks are home to many species of birds and mammals not found in the wild anywhere else in the world, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and wombats.

Boasting many stunning white sand beaches, Australia has a coastline like none other. From busy Bondi to surfing icons like Bell’s Beach and Tasmania’s stunning Wineglass Bay , there are endless places to swim, surf, snorkel and paddle. 

Despite Australia’s large landmass, most people tend to live in urban, coastal cities. Faster-paced cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne hold much of the population, as do regional satellite cities such as Albury, Dubbo, Bunbury, Townsville, Newcastle and Geelong.

Outback towns have a unique flavour and a distinct way of life; things are slower here and due to smaller populations, space is plentiful, with most locals relying on agriculture for a living. Venturing away from the city to visit the Outback and rural areas of Australia is highly recommended as it gives travellers the chance to see a different side of Australia. Traverse the northern regions of Australia's iconic outback landscape on a 11 day Darwin to Broome Outback tour.

Culture and customs

With a strong history of immigration, modern Australia is made up of people from many different cultural backgrounds. This mix makes Australia an endlessly fascinating place to visit as travellers will be exposed to a variety of different customs and cultures during their stay. From the ancient, spiritual ways of the First Nations population to the wide array of faiths, foods and festivals on display in the big cities, Australia is a cultural melting pot. 

Despite the differences, there are many things that unify the people of Australia. Sports, in particular cricket, soccer and football (Australian Rules), are played and watched by the masses, irrespective of age, race, gender or income. Large sporting events like the AFL Grand Final, Melbourne Cup Day and the Boxing Day Cricket Test have universal appeal for Australians. 

Australians relish public holidays, with national and state holidays offering locals time to relax with friends and family over a barbecue or picnic. Making use of Australia’s natural environment is also paramount during this time, with outdoor activities like bushwalking, swimming at the beach or lazing in the park popular with locals.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways of experiencing a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

Australia is a land that has been built by immigrants, and these multicultural influences are evident in the wide array of food available. In the cities, it’s possible to find world-class Vietnamese, Turkish, Italian, Greek, Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Indian restaurants, as well as excellent gastro-pub fare. Head to the Outback, and you’ll find authentic ' bush tucker ', simple campfire meals and sizzling barbecues.

Food to try in Australia

1. Fresh seafood

With such an impressive coastline, it’s no wonder fresh oysters, prawns, mussels and ‘balmain bugs’ are devoured by locals and savoured by visitors. For those on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with eating fish and chips on the beach.

Australia creates some of the best wines in the world at South Australia’s Barossa Valley , Western Australia’s Margaret River and New South Wales’s Hunter Valley .

Whether you’re downing a can of VB in Victoria or sipping micro-brewed ale in Sydney, sharing a beer with mates is a social experience not to be missed when in Australia

4. Hot pies

An Australian classic – savoury meat pies (or vegetable pies for vegetarians) are best eaten with tomato sauce and are easily found served in city cafes, country bakeries and football matches around Australia.

Read more about Australia's must-try foods

Festivals and events in Australia

Anxiously anticipated by many – the Australian Rules Football Grand Final is a great time to be in Melbourne. Tickets are notoriously scarce but pubs, clubs and backyards overflow with people watching the ‘Big Game’ and celebrating (or commiserating) afterwards.

Tasting Australia 

Feeling hungry? Tasting Australia is a food festival that takes place once a year throughout South Australia and showcases the culture, producers and regions that make this state such a delicious destination to explore. 

Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney lights up the harbour city with a Festival of Ideas featuring inspirational speakers, performances by local and international artists and light installations that transform buildings and cultural icons into colourful works of art. 

Margaret River Pro

See your favourite professional surfers at work against the backdrop of the beautiful Margaret River region in South Australia at the Margaret River Pro.

State of Origin

Turn your Brisbane, Perth or Sydney adventure up a notch by experiencing a State of Origin game. 

Cairns Ecofiesta

Switch your Cairns holiday to sustainable mode at Cairns Ecofiesta: an eco-conscious festival that celebrates and supports the environment through eco workshops, live music, local produce markets, and vegetarian food options. Suitable for the whole family, this festival aims to both encourage a sustainable lifestyle and leave you with plenty of eco-inspo so you can start your very own planet-protecting journey. 

Alice Springs Beanie Festival 

Celebrate the very best of Aboriginal talent, creativity, and skill at the Alice Springs Beanie Festival. Bursting with silly and colourful handmade beanies, this festival aims to encourage and appreciate the work of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people with various textile workshops and demonstrations on sight to help you understand and learn how to make local arts and crafts. 

Barunga Festival

Barunga is a closed community in the Northern Territory that you usually need a permit to enter, but for three days they open up to the world to celebrate life in Katherine's remote Indigenous communities. With a jam-packed program featuring storytelling circles, art and bush medicine workshops, and some of Australia's best First Nations musicians, Barunga Festival is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the vibrant community.

Darwin Festival 

Promising to give you a real taste of the Northern Territory, the Darwin Festival brings together a myriad of performances, shows, concerts, and exhibitions for you to enjoy. From comedy shows to art galleries, this bubbling festival will have you wanting to come back again and again and again. 

Similar destinations

Inspired by Australia but still browsing? Why not check out these incredible destinations:

New Zealand

• New Zealand tours
• Should I travel to Australia or New Zealand?
• Canada tours
• The United Kingdom

Further reading

Australia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Australia – excluding passport holders from  New Zealand  who can enter Australia without a visa.

Passport holders from 34 countries are eligible to apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA/601), which permits multiple entry to Australia for up to three months within a 12-month period. 

All other foreign nationals will need to apply for a visitor visa (600). This permits stays of up to 12 months with the option to apply for single or multiple entry.

Learn more information about Australian tourist visas on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website

Last updated: 28 June 2023

What's the weather like in Australia?

The weather in Australia varies depending on where in the country you are. For example, winter in Victoria and Tasmania tends to be very cold (around the 10 °C -15 ° C mark), whereas, if you head further north to the Northern Territory and Queensland, temperatures in the winter months are much nicer (usually around 18 ° C-25 ° C).

This pattern also applies to summer, where the southern states tend to experience lower temperatures (but still warm), while the northern and western states are warmer, with temperatures reaching as high as 40 ° C+.

Is tipping customary in Australia?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Australia; however, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is common practice. Restaurant staff, taxi drivers and other service workers welcome tips for good service.

What is the internet access like in Australia?

Internet access is widely available in most parts of Australia, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots commonly found in urban areas. Please note that internet access won’t be available in Outback and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Australia?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in most parts of Australia, especially in large cities and urban areas. Remote, rural and mountainous places may have limited to no coverage, so be aware of this before venturing away from the city. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving your home country if you want to use your mobile, or you can purchase a sim card when you arrive. The provider that will have coverage in the majority of Australia is Telstra, secondly Optus and then Vodafone. A hot tip – when you are in remote areas and don’t have mobile phone signal, turn your phone to flight mode which will conserve battery and prevent your phone from using data trying to search for internet signal.

What are the toilets like in Australia?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Australia, and many of our campsites have proper facilities with flushing toilets. In remote areas such as the Kimberley, there is no established plumbing and therefore we have installed ‘drop toilets’. Some campsites we use are managed by the National Parks and have either eco-toilets or drop toilets, most of which are maintained regularly.

Can I drink the water in Australia?

Drinking water from taps in Australia is considered safe, unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Australia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by shops, restaurants and cafes in Australia. Smaller establishments may only accept cash or require a minimum purchase for credit card use, so be sure to carry enough cash for smaller purchases.

What is ATM access like in Australia?

ATMs are commonly found in large cities and regional towns in Australia. ATM access will be very limited in remote areas so be aware of this before heading into national parks or the Outback.

What public holidays are celebrated in Australia?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 26 Jan: Australia Day
• Good Friday*
• Easter Monday*
• 25 Apr: Anzac Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day

*Please note, Australia public holidays may vary.

This list does not include State governed public holidays.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Who are the First Nations people of Australia?

There are two distinct groups of First Nations peoples in Australia - Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people - both of which have lived on this land for centuries. While there are only two Indigenous groups, there's actually a wide range of language and location communities that are made up of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people including the Adnyamathanha people of the Flinders Ranges (Aboriginal Australians) and the Badu people from the Near Western Group (Torres Strait Islander people). 

Is Australia LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Australia is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers thanks to its anti-discrimination laws, diverse population and welcoming culture. There are many LGBTQIA+ friendly neighbourhoods and establishments across the country, as well as a wide variety of Pride events. 

What's the transport like in Australia?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. Depending on which trip you're on while in Australia, you may even find yourself travelling overland. 

Overland tours

Australia is a big place – like, huge.   Overland tours   involve a lot of time on the road covering long distances, and sometimes the landscape can be pretty barren, so bring a book or some tunes to keep you company.

What's the accommodation like in Australia?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Australia you may find yourself staying in a:

Our lodge accommodation is located outside major cities, such as near the entrance to a National Park, and has its own amenities such as a restaurant or dining room. Lodges are comfortable places to stay and offer a good night's rest after a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Australia. 

Permanent Tented Campsite

There's no need to put up your tent when you spend the night in a Permanent Tented Campsite. You'll have a roof over your head and will bunk down on sleeper mats on the ground or stretcher (camp) beds, with access to a toilet/shower block. Tent sizes can vary depending on the trip you're on and the location you're visiting. Some of our permanent tented campsites are a little bit fancy, others are very simple. Sometimes you'll be sharing a tent with others in your group. 

Our bush camping experiences are as diverse as Australia itself. Some offer swag camping under cover or under the twinkling stars. You could be sleeping in a tent with access to simple toilet or shower amenities or you might not have access to a shower at all. However, the scenery at these magical spots makes it worth going without a bath for a day or so. Sometimes a trip has participatory camping where everyone pitches in to help. Other times, a staff member is on hand to look after things like cooking. 

We provide accommodation at a wide variety of hotels around Australia. Some are quite upmarket, others less so, but all of them offer a comfortable stay and ensuite facilities. 

We use hostels on some trips which means your bed could be in a twin room or a shared dorm room. Some of these rooms come with their own facilities while others have share facilities. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Australia support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Australia directly support our foundation partners, Blue Carbon Lab, Greening Australia and WWF-Australia. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Blue Carbon Lab

Blue Carbon Lab is helping to mitigate climate change by restoring and protecting blue carbon in coastal wetlands. We've already lost 65% of wetlands globally, and multiple impacts, including urban development, agriculture, industry, and more, threaten these crucial blue-carbon ecosystems. Donations from our trips help Blue Carbon Lab to restore the natural coastal wetland areas in Victoria, Australia. 

Find out more or make a donation   

Greening Australia

Greening Australia is taking action to rebuild resilient ecosystems across Australia, from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the cool island ark of Tasmania. Donations from our trips help them tackle Australia's complex environmental challenges through large on-ground restoration projects and innovative research initiatives that help scale their impact.  

Find out more or make a donation

Country Needs People

Country Needs People support Indigenous land and sea management in Australia. Donations help them empower Indigenous communities to rehabilitate and protect places of significance on land and sea using traditional knowledge paired with modern technology.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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Getting your itinerary right is essential for any destination you decide to travel to. The same goes for trips to Russia. There is a lot to see and do, but how do you decide what goes into your itinerary and what doesn't? We always suggest planning your Russia vacation with a travel expert that has organized multiple trips before. Yes, we're talking about ourselves. We know the ins and outs of this gorgeous destination, and we're ready to help you see the best of Russia. But are you ready, though? If you are considering booking an escorted tour of Russia, chat with us right away, and we will tailor-make an itinerary that suits your travel preferences and our premium travel values.

Top Things To See in Russia

• The Moscow Kremlin & Armoury Chamber (Moscow)
• The State Hermitage Museum (Saint Petersburg)
• St. Basil's Cathedral (Moscow)
• The Grand Palace (Peterhof)
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (Saint Petersburg)
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• Statue "The Heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad" (Volgograd)
• Lake Baikal (Listvyanka Village)
• Lena Pillars (Siberia)

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• Tipping in Russia is optional, but we always suggest to leave around 10% of your bill total
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• Russian Visa process takes time, so plan at least a few months in advance

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Somerset family nearing end of epic 'no-fly' journey from UK to Australia

A family from Somerset are on their way home after their epic fly-free journey to Australia for a family wedding. Shannon Coggins, Theo Simon and daughter Rosa left their East Pennard home in August 2023 to travel Down Under for Shannon's sister Ellie's wedding on December 28, 2023.

Their 15,000-mile trip from Castle Cary railway station to Sydney has seen the trio travelling by train, bus and boat through Europe, Asia, and across the Australian desert. While they planned to avoid flying in a bid to curb their own carbon emissions, they had to take two one-hour flights.

After attending the wedding of Shannon’s sister and celebrating a midsummer Christmas down under and exploring southeast Australia, they began their journey back on March 11. Because of the cyclone season, there were no sailboats crossing the Timor sea and they had to fly by propeller plane from Darwin to Dili, before retracing their overland steps through Southeast Asia into China.

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The family hope to arrive back in Mendip by the beginning of June. The round trip by train, bus and boat will have taken them nine-and-a-half months.

“Me and Theo decided to stop flying in 2002 because of its effect on the world’s climate”, Shannon explained. “But we still wanted to travel abroad, especially with our daughter, and then my sister, who moved to Australia in 2007, told us she was getting married in New South Wales in December.

“We wanted to be there on her wedding day but we’ve also been trying to do our bit to reduce our carbon footprint. Flying direct from London to Sydney would have had far higher CO2 emissions, and, as it happens, choosing the slower travel option led to us having this epic adventure!”

Rosa, who left Strode College last summer, said: “It’s been a fantastic journey and a really good way to experience so many different places and people before I start my Animation degree course in Falmouth this Autumn.

“It’s a shame we ended up needing to fly at all, but I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved. It hasn’t always been easy - we’ve been flooded in Georgia, questioned by police in Russia and wiped out by Covid for 10 days in Kazakhstan. But through all the challenges we’ve stuck together as a family, and now I’m just looking forward to seeing our home again, especially my cat.”

Their adventures saw Rosa serving in a sandwich shop in New South Wales and later in Guilin she was recruited to be an extra in a popular Chinese TV series. The family saved up for several years towards the trip and last August Shannon left her job as Administrator at the Avanti Park School in Frome and Theo finished working at Songbird Naturals in Ditcheat.

They also turned down bookings for their band Seize The Day over the winter months, although Theo and Shannon were invited to perform as a duo at some benefit concerts once they arrived in Oz.

“We’ve done a few things differently on the way back”, said Theo. “We’ve taken a three-day trek in the rainforest of North Sumatra - the original wild home of Orang Utans, which sadly are now under threat from Palm Oil plantations.”

“In China after we’d been walking in the Yellow Mountains, the police were called when one of our hotel bookings fell through. Someone explained to us that the police are there to help people sort out any problems. They helped us find another hotel and then drove us there with their lights flashing to clear traffic - It was quite surreal!”

Theo and Shannon are looking forward to seeing friends again and getting back together with their band for this year’s Glastonbury Festival. Theo said: “All three of us have campaigned musically and in other ways for action on Climate Change and it’s been great to have this eye-opening adventure without making too many compromises.

“But we’re realistic. We know that people can’t necessarily find the time to do this, and unfortunately the world isn’t currently set up to make low-carbon travel easier than flying. However, we’ve discovered what’s possible without flying, and I have to say that, so far as public transport is concerned, Britain could learn a lot from the rest of the world.”

The family have kept a blog of their travels for family and friends which can be accessed through this link.

Watch CBS News

Want to head abroad with the family this summer? Consider these destinations.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Alain Sherter

May 26, 2023 / 3:25 PM EDT / MoneyWatch

Airports across the U.S. are likely to get crowded in the coming weeks as travelers set off on their summer vacations, with many Americans expected to head overseas for trips postponed by the pandemic.

For families, some of the best international getaways include Prince Edward Island in Canada; Ischia, Italy; and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, according to Jacqui Gifford, editor-in-chief of Travel and Leisure. Those destinations offer plenty of fun for children but also feature relaxing activities for mom and dad, Gifford  told CBS News. 

For Ischia, a small island in the Gulf of Naples known for its hot springs and magnificent coastal views, the kids will enjoy the flight into Naples, Italy, then be wowed by a one-hour boat ride to the island, Gifford said. 

"It's got beautiful beaches, cliffs, amazing hotels that sort of capture that old-school charm of Italy," she said. "You can walk in these beautiful towns at night. I think it's pretty family friendly, too, because in general you have a more affordable experience."

Affordability is key when traveling abroad this year, with travel experts predicting that flights will be more expensive. 

Airfares on international flights are projected to hit their highest level since 2019 , before the pandemic grounded most vacation travel. The average ticket to Europe is projected to cost around $1,100, while flying to Asia will top $1,800 per ticket, according to travel reservation app Hopper. The average ticket to Africa or the Middle East will cost around $1,454 and a trip to Australia and surrounding nations is expected to average $1,709, the app estimates.

Those higher prices stem from the rising cost of jet fuel and strong demand for overseas travel during the first full summer where international destinations have lifted their pandemic protocols. 

In search of good value

Canada's Prince Edward Island is famous for its red sandy beaches and is particularly affordable for families on the East Coast, Gifford said. The Galapagos islands, the site of Charles Darwin's pioneering explorations, is a good pick if families who want a more outdoorsy vacation, while it's cheaper to fly to South America now than it was before the pandemic, she said. 

The average flight to South America is expected to cost $692, down 9% from 2019, according to Hopper.

"If your kids are interested in wildlife and nature, it's one of the world's most pristine national parks," Gifford said of the Galapagos. "I think, in terms of just dollars, that's one to look into."

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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