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Was thinking about booking a danube…

Was thinking about booking a danube river cruise but after reading these reviews I am now not going to. I notice none of these reviews have been answered by Scenic. That tells you something else. Pity because on their website the cruises looked good. Thank you everybody for your reviews

Date of experience : 12 March 2024

Never again

Seasoned cruise traveller, first time Scenic River cruise - never again. The only thing 5*star about this company is their marketing - over promise and under deliver. Pleasant staff but this must work within very rigid guidelines - I have never encountered a more non guest friendly cruise company. Had a junior suite, a butler is mere figment of their marketing BS - decor was chrome and mirrors and the food and wine and embarrassment.

Date of experience : 06 December 2023

This particular cruise ship lack

This particular cruise ship lacks entertainment for guests. No small band, no comics, no shows, no casino. The tours are also very short timeframe and the ship usually docks in the afternoon in mosts cities leaving very little time for guests to leave the ship and enjoy the places you are visiting. Not much information is provided by cruise regarding tours, times, docking etc. everything is a guessing game I personally would not book this cruise line again

Date of experience : 05 May 2023

we have always had the best holidays…

we have always had the best holidays with Scenic and today I rang on 2 different numbers to enquire about the New Zealand holiday and waited for over 1 hr on 2 different lines and had to eventually hang up, very disappointed.

Date of experience : 29 February 2024

Very difficult company to deal with

Very difficult company to deal with. After two failed attempts at going on a cruise due to Covid. (nobodys fault). I was given an undertaking that I could have my cruise payments refunded at 30 June 2023. Some 2 years after the second cancelation. Good luck getting Scenic to honour that commitment, they just continue to make empty promises. Unfortunately I will have to take legal action against them to recover my money.

Date of experience : 17 July 2023

Dissapointed

Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest change boats 3 times because of this I missed the part I really wanted to see the Rine valley,we spent 5hours on a coach then another 4hour further down the river.

Date of experience : 10 August 2022

Meaningless guarantee

River cruise ran late. Scenic promised a partial refund under their "guarantee". Since January Scenic has concocted excuse after excuse to delay our refund. Be vary wary travelling with Scenic. We were loyal to Scenic, taking multiple river cruises and land tour, but not anymore. Prices remain premium, but quality and service are now bargain basement.

Date of experience : 16 December 2022

Scenic canceled the tour & held on to booking funds

After visiting Antartic in 2020 with Scenic, they canceled two other trips that year. Scenic decide to keep the tour payment in full for the first trip. Booking those canceled trips in 2022, Scenic canceled both tours within weeks of the departure dates, without reasons given. Now in june 2023, after months going on a year of refund requests, Scenic refunded the 2020 tour payment. Scenic kept the 2 years of earned interest on our money.

Date of experience : 14 June 2023

Scenic cannot be trusted

Have just been informed that our fully paid Europe River Cruise for July 2023 has been brought forward by two days! With flights and other travel arrangements locked in, this means either missing the first day or two of an 8 night cruise or paying a large sum to change flights at the second busiest time of the year. Scenic have “generously” offered to pay just half the cost of the changed flights leaving me well out of pocket and with a very poor opinion of this travel company. Are they on a downward spiral with their treatment of customers?

Date of experience : 21 December 2022

Do not deal with this company

Do not deal with this company. They do not offer 5 star experiences. It is impossible to contact anyone, phones and emails are not answered. Even a personal letter sent by recorded delivery to the chief executive has not been acknowledged. During our recent Danube cruise due to low water levels it was necessary to change ships. Unfortunately when we arrived on the second ship we found that we had been allocated a cabin of a lower grade. No one had the courtesy to advise us of this change and when we complained to the cruise director we were told that we would have to take the matter up with our travel agent when we returned home.

Date of experience : 23 June 2022

Yeah but no.

I understand that the company invokes disaster clauses to avoid giving refunds and then attempts to look like/to be good corporate citizens by offering credit vouchers. They claim those vouchers will be refunded if unused in December 2022. But the product we purchased (a Baltic Cruise) is not being offered again. We will be unable to use that voucher for the experience and know that right now. It’s a large amount of money to withhold.#600873

Date of experience : 27 September 2020

Very Poor Understanding of Circumstances...

we booked a river cruise to Vietnam/Cambodia for September 2020. Evergreen cancelled our trip due to the China virus and although presenting medical documentation to state we can not take the vaccine, Evergreen/Scenic are refusing to refund the monies we paid for this trip. Very poor Evergreen/Scenic..(Booking Ref. 670928). , Section 5. Cancellation, delays and changes to Your Itinerary. It clearly states at para 5.4 if Evergreen Tours (i.e.. Scenic Tours) delayed for more than 7 days FOR WHATEVER REASON, the customer may terminate the contract and has the option to request either a full refund or a credit towards future tours. Despite numerous attempts via email, Donna Willis (Guest and Corporate Affairs Manager) has FAILED to furnish a direct response to a number of questions I have put to her...

Date of experience : 22 February 2021

I have been trying to contact them for…

I have been trying to contact them for several days to make changes to a booking. Wait times are anywhere from 40 minutes to over an hour. They can’t answer questions and place you on hold. They have written and stated they would make contact on a day with an update and they don’t. This is beyond frustrating when you are charged a premium for the cruise. This companies customer service and engagement is nonexistent.

Date of experience : 25 October 2022

So Disappointing, broke their word

From absolutely loving Scenic, in the past, to now being utterly disappointed in their untrustworthiness. Shame on Scenic. Our twice deferred trip finally went ahead, then before departure was curtailed due to inability to supply the tour extension content. We were encouraged to make our own accommodation arrangements for being stuck in a destination three more days than Scenic were able to accommodate us on the understanding we would be reimbursed by Scenic for the three days of hanging around. That was a joke. In the end, the reimbursement made, did not even cover part of one night of the hotel costs in the very hotel that they would have used could they have secured the booking. Money is owed to us and I doubt we will ever see it. We had this offer from Scenic in writing, which subsequently their staff choose to ignore. We were always willing to spend on on Scenic, booking Royal/Owners/Panorama cabins, This a back to back cruise and pre and post tour extensions. We shall not be availing ourselves the displeasure of Scenic again. Shame because we were thinking of booking Scenic Eclipse before this happened. So very disappointing. We shall take our money elsewhere now.

Date of experience : 10 November 2022

Jewels of Europe…

I recently did the Jewels of Europe tour on the Scenic Jewel which began in Amsterdam on 28th of July and brought my son and his family. Altogether there were 7 of us. I have also booked for 17 people December 2014 for the 7 night Christmas market tour. Please take this feedback in the manner it is intended and I hope it will be helpful for future planning. First of all the staff were absolutely amazing. Nothing was too much trouble and this helped make our trip very enjoyable. Now some areas that could be definitely improved. 1) The food for the evening meal was not good. I understand they have a small kitchen but there is very little variety and whenever we ordered the options of salmon, steak or chicken, they were always well over cooked and dry even when we asked for it to be rare or medium rare. 2) Bread rolls were so tiny and tasteless, Nice large bread rolls would be great 3) One day we had just been in beautiful German wine country where we all got a chair lift over miles and miles of vineyards. That evening we were offered Australian and American wine. I asked if it was possible to have wine from the region we had just visited, and they said sure, but this should have been standard practice and we should not have been offered Australian and American wine. 4) It would be nice to have table cloths at night. We were often tied up next to other boats and could see they had table cloths which made the meal more special 5) Portobellos was closed half the time meaning we only had one turn in there. Suggest opening every night as the meal quality was much better and that way everyone could get 2 opportunities to eat a higher quality meal 6) The machines to talk to listen to the tour guides were terrible. We spent 20 minutes of each tour trying to get them working In the end I just stayed close to the guide so I could hear what they were saying. My brother did same cruise 2 weeks before me and he agreed, Everyone on his trip had same problem. Even the tour guides said other companies use much better and more modern systems, so would be great to replace these. 7) Even though it is small, the massage/facial room is still charging top prices for a treatment but the ambiance was not good. This small space needs to be made a lot more relaxing and spa like. ( Im in the beauty training industry so this really bugged me as we work with small rooms and it is easy to do, good bed, battery candles etc, nice things on wall. 8) I also suggest a dress code for the evening meal, jacket for men, long pants, women well dressed.This raises the level.we were on the trip of a lifetime, and having people in thongs at dinner and shorts ( men and women) lowered the quality As I said, the staff were amazing. I could not fault them, but the suggestions above would be easy to implement and raise the professionalism and quality of Scenic experiences

Date of experience : 28 June 2023

No Customer Care or Service at Scenic

We have not yet made it to the cruise. That’ll be in May 2023. Scenic took our deposit and were great to deal with. That’s where the good experience to date ended. We are doing other things while in Europe and need to make arrangements now. We need Scenic advice on flights for the cruise before we can make arrangements. I have called Scenic a number of times and waited at least an hour without being answered. I have tried their webchat, as suggested while waiting on the phone. No one is there to chat to. I have emailed a number of times and been advised that they are busy and will get back in 2-3 working days. Three weeks later I have heard nothing. We received a letter from their CEO explaining that Scenic has encountered problems in recent times. He apologised and promised things are improving. Clearly this is rubbish.

Date of experience : 27 September 2022

3 star cruise for 5 star price avoid

Our booking experience was horrendous. Apparently Their website had been hacked making it impossible to contact anyone as all numbers we called just rang out. We did get in touch with someone after being on hold for over 3 hours. We booked our trip of a life time and we were very excited. We received our booking via email only to find our names spelt wrong so we spent hours trying to contact your booking department to get that changed. We received our invoice promptly we paid and then didn't receive a receipt for a week later and several emails and phone calls later. Not once did your staff apologizes for the delays just ignored our complaints. Very poor service We chose Scenic as they advertised 5 star cruising, top service and luxury. We didn't get that. On arriving at the airport we were a bit unsure where to go - Viking had staff at every gate and several at the meeting place (Amsterdam) we actually asked the Viking representative where the Scenic representative was ! We met up with other passengers and waited, our one representative turned up 30min late ! (with no apology) On boarding our boat -Crystal- was disappointing, she was old, tiered and smelt of sewage. this smell stayed around for 4 days and then the whole boats toilet and shower system went down for a few hours !! Spider webs, bugs, leaking showers, ripped seats, missing chess pieces - Not very luxurious. To get a drink at night was a drama it took at least 30 min to get served. To Scenic's credit the food was amazing. 24 hour butler service! Well we did get to meet our butler who introduced themselves to us when we boarded. We were ill two nights and decided to eat in our room. I rang our butler service to get our dinner delivered to our room only to be told that they where very busy and would get to us when they could, the second night we ordered again only to be told the same thing they where busy -I'm sorry what happen to 24 hour butler service to get you anything you need!! that night we only received one meal I rang to see where the other meal was only to be told very rudely that what I ordered wasn't on the menu - it was as I was looking at the menu on the TV - I was told that they would see what they could do - nothing arrived. To top of all off the cruise was cancelled due to low water But to Scenics credit they did refund us which we appreciate. I am writing this to let you know that we where looking forward this trip That I personally have dreamed of doing for years and we bitterly disappointed and I'm sorry I will not recommend Scenic to anyone thinking of doing a Europe river cruise We paid 5 star price for a 3 star cruise

Date of experience : 07 August 2022

Major concern with Scenic’s actions

I have a major concern I would like to bring to your attention. My partner & I conducted a RAT test (which was negative) prior to departing Darwin on 20 June, on a Scenic Tour of Top End & Kimberley. Unfortunately, my partner was COVID positive by a RAT test when we reached Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel on 22/6. Once we advised the Tour Director, Mark of our circumstances he told a web of lies to everyone. 1). He told Management of the hotel that we had a family emergency and were leaving the tour to return home. 2). He told the remaining passengers on the bus, that we were leaving the tour because of a family emergency. 3). They then proceeded through NT & WA, with the indigenous communities being put at risk because I believe my partner caught COVID from someone on the bus. I have followed up with Scenic that they have complete disregard for everyone with these lies they are happy to tell. My concern is the fact when we left our room at the Mercure Crocodile Hotel, two young men then went inside to clean the room. We then sat in the hotels reception waiting for a lift back to Darwin for flight home as we were unable to get suitable accommodation to isolate. I’m angry that a “so called” reputable company can get away with these lies when we were completely honest. I believe you should be aware of this indiscretion by Scenic Tours.

Date of experience : 22 July 2022

Only fair-weather friends.

You never know more about a company than when something goes wrong. Covid hit, and Scenic put the walls up. Where customers who were cancelled (the company cancelled, not the paying public) have to fight protracted battles through consumer and tribunal systems to get a refund - which was stated in Scenic’s own Ts and Cs. Scenic have rejigged their Ts and Cs which manifestly favour themselves, and virtually remove all option of a refund. Surely this is in contravention of consumer law? If I order a product and the company doesn’t deliver, I’m entitled to a refund UNLESS it’s Scenic, in which my money is kept with them for a couple of years. They’re keen to tout their Australian origins, but the concept of mateship has passed them by. The battle to recoup our money costs time, money, and mental health. They couldn’t care less. They estimate up to 6 months to repay customers. However, the majority of customers paid them promptly, and if we’d said ‘we’ll get to it later’ they would have cancelled and kept our deposit. If they get customers in the future, I would: (joke! Would never use a company this unethical again) negotiate the Ts and Cs so it’s equitable. They cannot hold all the cards. Pay using a method you can obtain a chargeback with in the off-chance they cancel and you have to jump through hoops to get your money back. I’m bitter and poorer for dealing with them. Add insult to injury: comment on their social media, and they remove or hide it. Heaven forbid anyone should think they’re not amazing!

Date of experience : 15 February 2021

Very disappointed with the Grand…

Very disappointed with the Grand Australia tour. (For UK guests on, Poor communication beforehand, things are changed because Australia has not fully re-started (according to the Tour manager) and we have missed out on some things. We’re very disappointed with this trip overall. It is not the luxury experience we’d expected. Very little is included once you’re on the tour, very few meals, slow porterage, very few trips/activities. With very few exceptions (Kangaroo Dundee, School of the Air and RFDS), it seems like the Free choices offered are almost the only trips. Lots of things require pre-booking independently and you need a good level of fitness to be able to join lots of the trips, as most need you to walk between 10-20 mins to join them, where you’ll be left in your own with people from other groups/independent travellers and be expected to find your way back to your hotel on you own. It seems like Scenic are cutting back, and paring things down to the minimum. We’re not as busy as I’d expect to be, and things, so far, seem to be badly timed so we waste time and reduce our chances of getting the most out of this beautiful country. Again, lots of people grumbling and several first-time guests say this will be their last. We’d booked to go on the Camel riding trip in Uluru. What we didn’t realise was that the camels are close to the resort. As the resort is 20km away, the view from the camels would be quite poor. I was able to swap to a dawn view of Uluru and had an informative morning, and a short walk. I could have taken the camel trek as we were back by 8.30. Apparently, camels cost 80AUD. Maybe that could have been thought about by Scenic. Those who had chosen the camel ride had thought they would go very close to this iconic sight - the highlight of the tour and, whilst they enjoyed the ride, didn’t get close to the site. But they did get a chance to go in the bus in the afternoon to get almost as close as the trek and dawn group managed to get. Again, maybe this could have been explained properly. The sunset experience was a disaster. No one arrived to set up our drinks and nibbles whilst we enjoyed the sunset. We were offered a drink with dinner to make up for it, but all felt this was insulting and we pushed for drinks with dinner (dinner is around 89AUD pp). It was insulting as Scenic say they offer unique experiences… and we stood by groups which included tours by Saga who thoroughly enjoyed the copious bottles of champagne brought by the same hotel group who were supposed to be organising our own celebration, and laughed at our discomfort. We certainly felt like the poor relations, despite paying over £2k pp more. In Alice Springs, Brownie’s bus always had lots of water - but we were otherwise expected to buy our own throughout the tour. Brownie was a far better guide than our own - far more informative and pleasant to listen to. Melbourne- Crowne Promenade Excellent room. No complementary bottles or water jugs in room. Fridge was full of products to buy (small bottle of water 5AUD). Coffee was decent, but tray not replenished. Nice dressing gown. TV dreadful - movies were all pay to view. Good breakfast. But - only given one free choice activity plus the Promenade dining. Don’t do Yarra River cruise as a free choice - it’s easy to do from the hotel during the free day. People loved the Penguin trip and I deeply regret missing it. To do the cruise independently, it would cost around 59AUS, whereas the trip to see the islands is much longer, is more difficult to do independently, and costs around 179AUD. The tour manager walked us down to the trips, but we had to make our own way back. Promenade dining - there’s a 95AUD allowance, which is almost impossible to dine without paying an additional amount. Cost cutting seems to reign supreme . No transfers are made for almost any of the trips (fine if you can walk 15- 20 mins easily) and find your own way back. We are not given tours of any of the places early on, so we can’t see much without finding out for ourselves. In far too many places, we miss so much because we’re not given a free walking tour or bus tour. In Melbourne, we had to pay an extra 60 or so AUD for a walking tour in the free day. This is not what we expected. Very few meals are included, and there seems to be problems booking places for restaurants. Descriptions of free choice trips aren’t always accurate. I do think Scenic could make a note about how long they last, the approximate start and end times, and if some options are easy to arrange for free time. It seems as if Scenic have cut back on activities and guests have to do a lot more for themselves (at extra cost). Now, this isn’t a problem for some, but others budget carefully to experience luxury for a few weeks of the year, and might not expect large additional expenses once on the trip. Many won’t go with Scenic again.

Date of experience : 20 October 2022

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This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

Our experience is with Scenic Tours, not the specific tour you are considering. We got home yesterday from Scenic Tours Seine River Cruise. I would highly recommend that you stay away from this company. Their advertising is blatantly false,they were unwilling to help passengers who became ill, they cut corners wherever possible, the quality of the food and wines was quite low, they took responsibility for nothing. After ignoring our request for medical help for an upper respiratory illness, they took about 25 passengers who were suffering from the same illness on the second river cruise without a care that they would be infecting a new group of tourists.

I haven't done the specific tour you've mentioned but like mommak201, I would be wary about using them based on my experience with them several years ago and a friend's experience with their subsidiary company, Evergreen. I'm not sure if it is Evergreen or their parent company but they are subject to a Class Action at the moment.

Jim, it's a very bad idea to put your email address on a public Internet forum. You will be a spammer & scammer magnet.

Suggest you copy & save your post & have it removed. Then post again without the email address.

People can PM (private message) you if they wish.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

I'm glad you had a great time but I would ask that if people want more information, to ask questions on this forum rather than PM you.

Everyone - particularly those considering a tour such as you undertook - benefits from reading the questions and answers.

If all questions were dealt with by private messages then the whole point of TripAdvisor would be defeated.

+1 to what DougoOz said.

We get more questions about organised tours than we get feedback about them, so your contribution on the forum would be valuable.

Thanks Stargazey

You can delete it yourself and repost - to the bottom right of your post click on "report inappropriate content", scroll down to delete my post.

Alternatively, you could leave it there and add another post with some helpful hints and tips, what worked well etc and if someone does PM, redirect them to this thread to ask the Q and get the answer here..

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I have just filled in the review for Inspiration I am confused about which company organised it we have Intrepid., Inspiration and Tour Radar. I found the organisation poor and the amount of detail given to passengers lacking and confusing as other passengers had different details at times eg. the number of breakfasts some had 3 others had 5. The tour guide was not given enough details as he often had to ring the office for clarification eg. which motel we were booked into. We were not informed of the starting point and I had to ring to find out and then it was very vague eg told The Melbourne GAllery but we went there and it was closed so looked up the street to find the bus in a gutter with the doors open so assumed it was the one. The guide was excellent and deserves a pat on the back for his patience when he was not informed of details of motels or meal arrangements. We saw a great deal of very interesting views and places. Well worth the upsets and confusion .but very hesitant to use your company again due to lack of organisation .

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• 17-day Temples, Tigers & Goa Tour

Private Tours

• NEW! 14-day Deccan Odyssey’s Grand Heritage Tour
• NEW! 15-day Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Discovery Tour

River Cruise

• NEW! 17-day The Brahmaputra River & Darjeeling Tour
• 17-day The Very Best of Sri Lanka Tour
• NEW! 14-day Treasures of Sri Lanka Tour

Holiday Extension

• 3-night Sri Lanka Beach Stay
• 19-day Essential Australia Tour
• 22-day Wonders of Australia Tour
• 26-day Christmas & New Year in Australia Tour
• NEW! 27-day Australia’s East Coast Jewels
• 29-day Treasures of Australia Tour
• 29-day The Very Best of Australia Tour
• 24-day Magnificent New Zealand Tour
• 24-day Natural Wonders of New Zealand Tour
• 27-day New Zealand by Rail, Road and Sea Tour
• 28-day The Very Best of New Zealand Tour
• 31-day Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Tour

Combination Tours

• 44-day to 61-day Australia & New Zealand Combination Tours
• 20-day The Very Best of Japan Tour
• 23-day The Very Best of China Tour
• NEW! 15-day Classic Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
• 15-day Highlights of Vietnam Tour
• 22-day The Very Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
• NEW! 18-day Discover Vietnam & Cambodia
• 3-night Mekong Delta
• NEW! 3-night Luang Prabang, Laos

Vietnam & Cambodia

• 14-day Grand Canadian Rockies Tour
• 21-day Grand Canadian Rockies & Alaskan Cruise Tour

Holiday Extensions

• 4-night Knight Inlet Tour
• 18-day Spectacular South Africa Tour
• 18-day Spectacular South Africa including Rovos Rail
• 25-day The Very Best of South Africa Tour
• 17-day African Rail Adventure
• NEW! 17-day Namibian Rail Safari
• NEW! 17-day South African Rail Discovery

Small Group Safari

• NEW! 13-day In Search of the Big Five
• 3-night Cape Town Tour
• 3-night Victoria Falls Tour
• 3-night Chobe National Park Tour
• 6-night Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park Tour

New Zealand

Australia & new zealand, canada & alaska, south africa.

• 17-day African Rail Adventure Tour
• NEW! 17-day Namibian Rail Safari Tour
• NEW! 17-day South African Rail Discovery Tour
• 18-day Spectacular South Africa including Rovos Rail Tour
• 25-day Very Best of South Africa Tour
• NEW! 17-day The Brahmaputra River & Darjeeling
• NEW! 18-day Discover Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
• Private Tours of China
• Private Tours of India
• Private Tours of Sri Lanka
• Private Tours of Vietnam & Cambodia

It’s Your Time to Explore

It’s hard to sum up everything you’ll experience on a Distant Journeys holiday, but here we’ve tried to inspire you. With who you will become, what you will discover and, most importantly, the memories you will treasure forever.  It’s Your Time to become…

• an Adventurer
• a Historian
• a Storyteller

10 Year Anniversary

We are celebrating 10 years of Distant Journeys. Since 2014, we have been designing and delivering an exciting style of touring holiday that meets exceptional standards and offers unbelievable value. Operated at a leisurely pace and providing unrivalled flexibility, our itineraries are perfectly tailored to the tastes of UK travellers.

• Find out more
• Escorted Touring Experience
• Holiday Styles to Suit You
• So Much Included
• Freedom & Flexibility
• Once in a Lifetime Experiences
• Hand-Picked Hotels
• Freedom to Explore
• Travelling with Distant Journeys
• Award-Winning Customer Service
• Meet the Distant Journeys Team
• Tour Managers, Guides & Coach Captains
• Refer a Friend
• Customer Reviews
• Financial Security
• Price Promise
• Special Offers
• REQUEST A BROCHURE
• CALL FREE 01695 577 961

The Very Best of Australia

29 day escorted tour from only £8,095 per person.

SPECIAL OFFER:

SAVE up to £632 per couple! Book your place on any tour to Australia departing from September 2025 and choose an amazing homebound stopover from as little as £29 per person. Offer ends 1st July 2024. Request a brochure

The Very Best of Australia Tour

Left Column

29 days of discovery and adventure await you on our Very Best of Australia tour.

You’ll explore vibrant, world-class cities, the haunting Outback and the ancient tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, all at a leisurely pace.

What makes this tour so special is the variety of included immersive activities which give you a true insight into the real Australia, its indigenous culture, its rich history and its warm, friendly people.

Amongst many other unforgettable experiences, this tour includes an overnight journey aboard the legendary Ghan train, beginning in Alice Springs at the heart of the Red Centre and travelling north to Darwin in Australia’s Top End, with a cruise through the enchanting Katherine Gorge included along the way. You’ll travel in style on The Ghan in your own private en suite cabin with all meals and drinks included as you enjoy one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys.

SAVE up to £632 per couple! Book your place on any tour to Australia departing from September 2025 and choose an amazing homebound stopover from as little as £29 per person . Offer ends 1st July 2024.

• Freedom Days

Fly with Qantas & Emirates from the airport most convenient to you. Depart from Birmingham, Glasgow, London Heathrow, Manchester or Newcastle – whichever you depart from, there is no extra cost.

Included meals:

In-flight meals and drinks

Singapore, 2 nights

The next two days of our itinerary are based on a stopover in Singapore. Upon arriving into this wonderful modern city, you’ll be staying close to the banks of the scenic Singapore River at the four-star M Hotel City Centre , in a perfect location for exploring the city.

Alternative stopover

We have based days 2-4 of this itinerary on a stopover in Singapore. If you prefer, you may choose to stop in Dubai or spend an extra two nights in Perth for the same price. Your stopover includes transfers, accommodation, daily breakfast, and if choosing Dubai a city sightseeing tour. Flight timings will vary. Please speak with one of our personal travel experts for more details.

Singapore is one of the most exciting destinations in all of Asia, a real melting pot where Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures have merged with Western influences to create a vibrant city. This morning you’ll embark on a tour to take in the main highlights of the city, such as the ethnic quarters that have helped make the city what it is today; the waterfront Merlion Park, home to the famous Merlion Statue, a national symbol of Singapore; and the beautiful botanical gardens. Your tour will return you to your hotel, from where you can enjoy the rest of your day as you wish.

We can recommend a few suggestions for your second day in Singapore, such as high tea at Raffles, or perhaps a visit to nearby Sentosa Island, with its myriad of attractions including wildlife parks, cable cars and light shows.

Perth, 4 nights

Spend the rest of your time in Singapore as you please until it’s time for us to head to the airport, ready for our evening flight to our first stop in Australia, Perth. Once we arrive in Perth, we will clear customs and then head to Duxton Hotel .

Breakfast, in-flight meals and drinks

Our first day in Perth, the capital of Western Australia and the world’s most isolated city. Following a leisurely morning, this afternoon we head to Caversham Wildlife Park to meet some of Australia’s iconic native wildlife, from kangaroos and koalas to wombats and wallabies.

Our day begins with a sightseeing tour of the city and the surrounding area. First of all, we’ll visit King’s Park, a landscape of bushland and pretty wildflowers, offering astounding views out over the city’s skyline. We will then take a small excursion to the nearby port town of Fremantle to pay a visit to the fascinating Shipwreck Galleries. The tour will end with a relaxing cruise along the Swan River back to our hotel, passing the Millionaire Mansions on the way. This afternoon there is an option to view the spectacular natural landscapes of Nambung National Park, home to hundreds of striking limestone towers known as the Pinnacles .

Perth Freedom Day

Today has been left free for you to enjoy. Perhaps enjoy the city or alternatively, you can take a trip to Rottnest Island , a protected nature reserve with a coastline of hidden coves and white sandy beaches. Rich in wildlife, here you can spot the quokka, a wallaby-like marsupial. However you choose to spend your day, enjoy!

Adelaide, 3 nights

In the morning we make our way to Perth Airport in time for our flight to Adelaide. Surrounded by grassy parkland, picturesque hills and the Mount Lofty Range, Adelaide could scarcely present a more captivating aspect. During this afternoon’s sightseeing tour we will be introduced to Adelaide’s streets, fine Victorian buildings and the attractive parks and gardens that surround the city. Later, we arrive at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for our next three nights.

Hahndorf & Barossa Valley

We leave the city this morning, heading first for Mount Lofty Botanic Garden before continuing to Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, the quaint village of Hahndorf, with its tree-lined streets and original ‘Fachwerk’ buildings. After a stop at a working blacksmith museum, we head to the Barossa Valley, a renowned wine growing region, to enjoy wine tasting and lunch.

Breakfast and lunch

Adelaide Freedom Day

A Freedom Day to spend as you please. Enjoy exploring Adelaide on foot, taking time to chat to the locals and visit its many eateries. Alternatively, take an optional tour to Kangaroo Island, to spend a full day discovering wildlife up-close, such as a rare colony of sea lions.

Melbourne, 3 nights

This morning we head to the airport for our first internal flight to Melbourne, the second-largest city in Australia. It’s also one of the most historic, as seen in the stunning and extremely well-preserved Victorian architecture of its public buildings and grand houses. Once we arrive, you’ll get to witness the gorgeous architecture and much more with a sightseeing tour of the city. Among the places we will visit are the Victoria Markets, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Treasury Gardens, the Rod Laver Arena and Federation Square. After soaking up these sights, we also head out of the city centre to see two lovely waterside suburbs: Port Melbourne and St Kilda. For the next four nights, you’ll be staying at the four-star Pullman on the Park .

Melbourne Freedom Day

Our first Freedom Day in Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant cities. Spend the day exploring its many parks and laneways or enjoy an excursion aboard the Puffing Billy steam train on Australia’s most notable narrow-gauge railway, through the beautiful Blue Dandenong Ranges. Alternatively, if you’re looking to sample local gourmet delights, you may wish to take an optional Around the Bay Food & Wine Tasting Tour , sampling some of the best produce in Victoria.

With so much to do and see in and around Melbourne, a further Freedom Day is an opportunity to enjoy an optional tour along one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road . Your day is spent meandering along the southwest coastline of Victoria taking in the dramatic views of this magnificent coastline, including the impressive Twelve Apostles. There’s also the option to experience the ‘ Around the Bay ’ tour, taking in the stunning Mornington Peninsula and including a lunch and dolphin spotting cruise, discover the historic and gastronomic delights of Geelong with a trip on the lovingly restored Q train or alternatively, take a trip to Phillip Island , home to the world’s largest colony of little penguins, to view the nightly ‘Penguin Parade’.

Uluru, 2 nights

Tour Highlight

Following breakfast this morning, we board our flight to Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia’s Red Centre. Before landing, we may have the opportunity to view the world’s largest monolith from our aircraft. Rising from the flat surrounding scrubland, Uluru is a site of deep cultural significance to the Aboriginal communities of the Northern Territory. On arrival we take a rock base tour enabling us to discover more about its historical and cultural importance. After checking in at four-star Desert Gardens Hotel , this evening you can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine with your travelling companions whilst witnessing the changing colours of Uluru as the sun begins to set. It’s truly a photographer’s delight.

This morning, before breakfast we have the option of watching the sunrise over Uluru, an awe-inspiring sight. Later, we leave for a tour of the impressive series of rounded sandstone domes known as Kata Tjuta, or the Olgas. Our afternoon and evening are left free to relax or enjoy a pre-booked optional activity such as the impressive Field of Light or the Sounds of Silence dinner under the stars.

Alice Springs, overnight

This morning, we leave Uluru for our drive along the Lasseter and Stuart Highways to Alice Springs, in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Upon arrival we make our way to our overnight accommodation, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice Springs . Tonight, there is the option to enjoy a Sunset Camel tour , or an evening of authentic Aussie hospitality at the Outback Bush BBQ .

The Ghan, overnight

Nestled within the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs is an iconic town made famous by its rich pioneering history and ancient indigenous culture. This morning you may wish to take an adventure in slow motion on an optional hot air balloon trip over the outback landscapes, or enjoy a morning tour of the Western MacDonnell Ranges . Later, we board our coach and enjoy a sightseeing tour. Visits include the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the School of the Air, and the Old Telegraph Station, now a museum and the site of the old springs from which Alice gets its name.

Later in the afternoon, it’s time to make our way to Alice Springs Rail Terminal ready for our magnificent overland rail journey to Darwin, on Australia’s northern coastline. Known for being one of the world’s iconic rail journeys, The Ghan was named after the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this route. Our twin accommodation is in Gold Service cabins, air-conditioned, private sleepers, all with upper and lower bunk beds, en-suite shower, wash basin and toilet. Single travellers will be accommodated in Gold Service single cabins, which are configured as a lounge chair by day, converting into a bed at night, with shared bathroom facilities at the end of each carriage. Whilst onboard, all our meals are included, as are a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Following dinner in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, enjoy drinks with your travelling companions in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Upgrade options to the Gold Premium service are also available.

Breakfast and dinner PLUS selected onboard drinks

Darwin, 2 nights

After a leisurely on-board breakfast, The Ghan arrives into Katherine, where we have the opportunity to visit the awe-inspiring Katherine Gorge and the surrounding Nitmiluk National Park. Katherine Gorge is one of a series of thirteen sandstone gorges the Katherine River has carved into the landscape over time, and during your visit, you’ll learn all about how the gorge was named, as well as the local flora and fauna. After our stop, we once again board The Ghan for lunch and the final leg of the train journey to Darwin. Here we’ll be staying at a quality hotel on Darwin’s esplanade: the  DoubleTree By Hilton Esplanade .

Darwin Freedom Day

Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and is known for its laid-back fusion of frontier outpost and modern city. Your day has been left totally free to spend in your own particular way. Perhaps visit the Defence of Darwin Experience, an immersive, interactive multimedia experience telling the story of Darwin’s role in World War II – a very important time in Northern Territory history. Alternatively visit the thundering waterfalls, rainforest pockets and sacred sites of Litchfield National Park . For those wishing to venture further afield, a choice of excursion to Kakadu National Park can be arranged.

Cairns, 4 nights

We rise early to make our way to the airport for our one-stop flight to Cairns. Once we arrive in this coastal city, we will be transferred to our home for the next four nights, the Hilton Cairns  – ready for our adventures to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

Cairns Freedom Day

Today is another of our Freedom Days to spend how you wish in Cairns, although we are also offering an optional excursion to the rainforest village of Kuranda . Our day begins as we take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda village, ascending above the treetops with far-reaching views over the rainforest. Once in Kuranda, there are several pleasant ways to spend the next few hours, including perusing the markets, visiting the butterfly sanctuary or exploring the Koala Gardens. We continue to to Rainforest Station where we meet our Aboriginal guides. Chat in the Yarning Circle, test your boomerang the spear throwing skills and watch a traditional Aboriginal dance performance. We make our way back to Cairns on the unique Kuranda Scenic Railway. Passing over 40 bridges and through 15 tunnels, along one narrow part the track even has to cling to the rock face: a railway journey to remember.

• Great Barrier Reef

A full day visit to the Great Barrier Reef will be a highlight for many of our guests. Our high-speed catamaran will zip across the ocean to the Outer Reef, where we disembark onto a platform which will be our base for the day. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and the world’s largest coral reef system. Whether you want to snorkel surrounded by marine life, swim in the warm waters or explore the depths in a semi-submersible vessel, there is plenty of time to enjoy these activities and more. There are other activities available at an additional cost for those looking for more adventure, such as scuba diving , a snorkel safari guided by a marine biologist, a Seawalker Helmet dive , or even taking a scenic helicopter flight over the reef for spectacular views

This is the second of our Freedom Days during your stay in tropical northern Queensland. If you prefer to stay in Cairns today, there’s much to see and do, including numerous museums and art galleries, as well as over 200 walking tracks, each leading somewhere different. Today you can also come with us the nearby Daintree Rainforest , the world’s oldest rainforest. It’s also home to the World Heritage Site Cape Tribulation, an isolated headland where the rainforest meets the reef. During our rainforest tour, you’ll see the rainforest’s dazzling variety of flora and fauna on a guided walk as well as embarking on a cruise to spot saltwater crocodiles.

Sydney, 4 nights

This morning we leave Cairns, heading to the airport ready for our flight to Sydney. Our transfer will then take us to our new home for the next four nights, the excellent Sofitel Sydney Wentworth . The sparkling harbour is of course also home to the world-famous Sydney Opera House. Sydney has plenty to discover outside of the harbour however; for instance, its suburbs promise a real change of scenery with their pristine sandy beaches and native bushland. The heart of the city itself is also bursting with excellent shopping opportunities, world-class eateries and a lively arts culture.

This morning we will see Sydney in all its glory with an extensive sightseeing tour and luncheon cruise. We start by travelling through some of the city’s trendiest inner-city areas to the iconic Bondi Beach, before passing the beautiful Rushcutters Bay and Double Bay on our way back to the city centre. Our tour will then bring us to Hyde Park, Parliament House and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. This unique ‘chair’ and landmark is in fact an exposed sandstone rock, cut into a bench shape in 1810 by convicts as a gift to Governor Macquarie’s wife. It’s not only a fascinating landmark but also the perfect spot for a photo of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The sightseeing tour will then lead us on to a relaxing luncheon cruise around the stunning Sydney Harbour – the perfect way to end our first morning in Sydney.

This morning presents an array of diverse experiences: an expertly guided exploration of Sydney’s iconic Opera House, a leisurely walk through Sydney’s renowned Botanic Garden led by an Aboriginal guide, and a captivating journey into the historic convict roots of Sydney at the interactive Hyde Park Barracks Museum, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The afternoon is left entirely open for you to do as you wish. Whether you fancy some retail therapy or climb the awe-inspiring Harbour Bridge, our Tour Manager will be delighted to offer their assistance in making your choice a reality.

Sydney Freedom Day

Today is the first of our Freedom Days in Sydney, though you are also welcome to join us on our optional trip to the Blue Mountains , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This National Park is home to an expansive area of Australia’s iconic bushland carpeted with gum trees, with deep gorges and towering peaks making this a simply spectacular place not to be missed. During our excursion, we will visit a series of lookouts where you can take in some of the best views of the Blue Mountains, including Echo Point, the prime viewing point for the striking Three Sisters rock formation. We will also take in the beautiful Wentworth Falls and the village of Leura, which showcases many of the region’s local artists and hosts several garden festivals. Afternoon tea at the historic Hydro Majestic Hotel is also included.

Breakfast and afternoon tea

Depart Sydney

Our last day in Sydney is yours to enjoy as you like until we depart for the airport: the end of an amazing adventure in Australia. Flights to our chosen UK airport all stop in Dubai for a change of aircraft before the second leg back to the UK.

SPECIAL OFFER: Book your place on any tour to Australia departing from September 2025, and SAVE up to £632 per couple . You can enjoy a two-night stopover on the homebound journey from as little as £29 per person . Offer ends 1st July 2024. Click here for more details.

This morning our unforgettable journey comes to an end back in the UK at your chosen airport: either Birmingham, Glasgow, London Heathrow, Manchester or Newcastle.

Why not combine with a tour of New Zealand?

For an experience of a lifetime exploring both Australia and New Zealand, we offer the chance to embark on the ultimate Australasian adventure with our Australia and New Zealand combination tours. These tours combine The Very Best of Australia with our excellent Magnificent New Zealand or Very Best of New Zealand tours.

Take a look at our Australia and New Zealand combination tours for more details.

Departure dates & prices

Book your place on Very Best of Australia before 1st July 2024, and SAVE up to £632 per couple on tours departing from September 2025. You can enjoy a two-night stopover on the homebound journey from as little as £29 per person (£58 single occupancy) in either Dubai, Bangkok or Singapore; a three-night stay in Bali from only £129 per person (£198 single occupancy) or a two-night stay on Sentosa Island from only £149 per person (£248 single occupancy). The price includes two to three nights accommodation in a four-star hotel, full breakfast each morning and return airport to hotel transfers. Prices are valid on departures from September 2025 only, for more information on stopover prices, please click here.

* Please note that this date runs on an alternative itinerary – please call for details.

+This tour stays at Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel in Alice Springs.

Prices: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room.

Single Occupancy Supplement: 01 September 2024 – 31 August 2025, £1,795. 01 September 2025 – 31 December 2025, £1,895. 01 January 2026 – 30 April 2026, £1,995

When travelling overnight on The Ghan, passengers booked in a room for single use will be accommodated in single sleeper cabins with wash basin. Showers and toilets are available at the end of each compartment.

Deposit: £1,000 per person if travelling in economy class, £1,950 per person if travelling in premium economy, and £3,750 per person for business class.

Flight upgrades:  Upgrade to Premium Economy on selected routes from £2,295 per person return. Upgrade to Business Class from £4,995 per person return.

Visa:  To enter Australia, you need an ETA (electronic travel authority).We will obtain this on your behalf and the £25 per person processing fee will be added to your confirmation invoice.

Important Information: Our holiday prices are subject to fuel surcharges and the availability of flights in the lowest fare booking class. The correct price will always be confirmed to you before you book, and once you have booked, our Price Promise will guarantee there will be no further increases. For full terms and conditions see our terms and conditions page.

So much included

We believe in offering great value for money, so on the Very Best of Australia tour, so much of what you do and see is already included in the price. That’s all your scheduled international flights, overseas transfers, expertly chosen hotels, daily breakfast, experienced local Tour Managers, and many amazing excursions. All you need to do is bring a bit of spending money.

Flights with leading scheduled airlines

• Return economy class flights
• Fly with Qantas & Emirates from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle or Glasgow
• All domestic flights within Australia
• All airport charges, security charges and any applicable fuel surcharges
• UK Air Passenger Duty

Choice of outbound stopover

• Two-night outbound stopover. Choose from Singapore or Dubai
• Alternatively, spend two extra nights in Perth at the beginning of your tour

Carefully selected hotels

• Superior and first class hotels in great locations
• Overnight train journey onboard the legendary Ghan
• All hotel porterage
• Applicable hotel taxes
• Meals worth £801 per person
• Daily breakfast
• Lunch in a Barossa Valley winery
• Buffet lunch on the Great Barrier Reef
• Lunch cruise around Sydney Harbour

All-inclusive on The Ghan

• Selected alcoholic and soft drinks

Unforgettable experiences

• Sightseeing tours in Singapore (or Dubai), Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Alice Springs and Sydney
• Explore Caversham Wildlife Park
• Wine tasting in the Barossa Valley
• Experience Uluru at sunset and sunrise
• Cruise scenic Katherine Gorge
• Full day on the Great Barrier Reef
• Cruise Sydney’s famous harbour
• A behind the scenes tour of the Opera House
• Aboriginal guided tour of Sydney’s Botanic Garden

On the ground

• Services of an experienced local Tour Manager
• All overseas transfers
• Modern, air-conditioned coaches throughout

100% confidence

• Your holiday is covered by our Price Promise
• Your holiday is fully ATOL protected

Hand-picked hotels

At Distant Journeys, we take great care in selecting the accommodation you will be using throughout your Very Best of Australia tour. Our Directors personally visit the destination to search out the hotels that have a great location and are of a high quality too – which we believe are two of the most important factors when choosing any touring holiday. These are the four-star hotels we’ve selected for you:

M Hotel City Centre, Singapore

Duxton hotel, perth, crowne plaza hotel, adelaide.

• Pullman on the Park Hotel, Melbourne

Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock

• Double Tree Hilton, Alice Springs
• DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Hotel, Darwin
• Hilton Hotel, Cairns

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel, Sydney

Pullman on the Park, Melbourne

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Alice Springs

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Darwin

Cairns Hilton Hotel, Cairns

The Very Best of Australia – Freedom Days

When it comes to exploring your destination and discovering new places, it’s important to find the right balance between ensuring you see all the highlights, and still finding time to do the things that interest you in particular. This is where our Freedom Days come in – days to spend as you please, with a range of optional activities to choose from. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, a nature lover or a thrill seeker; you’ll find a Freedom Day excursion to suit you.

• Alice Springs

The majority of the optional excursions will be booked locally with your Tour Manager, but there are some that must be pre-booked before you depart the UK due to limited space and we suggest these are pre- booked at least 3 months prior to departure and no later than 30 days prior.  Any requests later than 30 days will be subject to a 5% surcharge when confirmed. Correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.

Stopover – Freedom Days

If you’ve taken advantage of one of our two night stopovers on your journey home from Australia you may want to make the most of your short stay in these exciting destinations by taking an optional excursion or two.

After all, who could visit Singapore without a trip to the world-famous and historic Raffles Hotel for afternoon tea or a Singapore Sling? Or if you’re in Bangkok, the Grand Palace with its beautiful Temple of the Emerald Buddha is a must-see.  In Bali why not take a sunset cruise, or discover the islands beautiful mountainous interior. And if Dubai is where you’ll spend the last two nights of your holiday, why not enjoy one of them feasting Bedouin-style on a Desert Safari?

Click on any of the descriptions below to find out more about any of the optional excursions in Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore and Bali.

Perth: Margaret River, Busselton Jetty & Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Full Day Tour

Travel south from Perth driving through farmland with grazing cattle and passing by coastal towns. Arriving at Busselton, known as the gateway to the Margaret River Region we stop for morning tea (own expense) at the iconic Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere. Please note there is not enough time at this stop to walk the full length of the jetty - Thats how long it really is!

Perth: Half Day Swan Valley Tour

An afternoon ‘sundowner’ tour traveling north of Perth into the Swan Valley. Hear all about the region from your driver-guide. Learn how the valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine area, and is dotted with historic villages, wineries, and restaurants.

Perth: Rottnest Grand Island Package

This full day tour takes you to the beautiful wildlife haven of Rottnest Island, and can be enjoyed during your Very Best of Australia tour.  Famed for its white sandy beaches and unique array of wildlife, Rottnest Island’s most notable residents are the adorable and friendly Quokkas. 

Perth: Full Day Swan Valley Tour

Leave central Perth and enjoy the views as you travel north into the Swan Valley. Hear all about the region from your driver-guide. Learn how the valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine area, and is dotted with historic villages, wineries, and restaurants.

Perth: Pinnacles Desert Sunset Tour & Star Gazing

The Pinnacles are one of the most iconic sights in Western Australia: a series of unique limestone rock formations sticking up out of a vast, remote desert. Pay a visit to this mystical feat of nature with a full-day Pinnacles Desert tour, which also takes in the Yanchep National Park, the western coast and the starry night sky.

Adelaide: Afternoon Wine Tasting and Coast

Enjoy the short and scenic drive through the beautiful Adelaide Hills on route to the iconic wine tasting region of McLaren Vale.Once in McLaren Vale our first stop is the stunning Chapel Hill Winery.

Adelaide: Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island Australia is South Australia’s premier nature-based tourism destination. Your Kangaroo Island tour from Adelaide begins early morning when you take a scenic coach journey to Cape Jervis taking in the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula with its vineyards, coastal views and rolling hills.

Adelaide: Murray River Scenic Lunch Cruise

The Murray River tour departs Adelaide and travels to the mighty Murray River. On your arrival, board the MV Proud Mary and relax as you cruise the historic river enjoying the wildlife and surrounding scenery.

Melbourne: The Q Train Experience

Experience a 3 hour journey from Drysdale to Queenscliff and back to Drysdale on The Q Train. Be greeted with a welcome drink on arrival. On-board The Q Train you will make your way past Clydesdales, olive groves whilst enjoying a 5-course dining experience. Admire the picturesque views of the Bellarine railway on either steam or diesel locomotive.

Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Plus Parade

Phillip Island is home to the largest little penguin anywhere in the world and watching the daily evening ritual of these delightful creatures emerge from the ocean to their sandy burrows is a spectacle not to be missed.

Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Experience

A Great Ocean Road Day Trip introduces one of the world’s most stunning coastlines, offering ocean vistas, crashing surf, dramatic coastal cliffs and endless long sandy beaches.

Melbourne: Around the Bay Sightseeing & Bay Cruise

Escape from the city for a day and discover the beauty of Melbourne Bay, also known as Port Phillip Bay, with a guided Melbourne Bay tour, taking in the stunning Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas.

Melbourne: Around the Bay Food & Wine Taste Tour

Explore Victoria’s enormous food and wine scene with this wonderful Melbourne food and wine tour. From Melbourne, you’ll to travel around and taste your way around the nearby Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas, seeing some incredible sights along the way too.

Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Dandenong Ranges

This morning we leave the city for the lush rain forest of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, where we enjoy a short stroll through the rain forest. With luck you might spot and likely hear the famous Lyrebird.

Uluru: Sounds of Silence Dinner

Entered into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame, Sounds of Silence offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours. An evening of dining under the sparkling outback sky.

Uluru: Field of Light Dinner

Field of Light art installation, and global phenomenon, by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, is coming to Australia for the first time. As part of Ayers Rock Resort’s commitment to arts and culture, it’s hosting the biggest Field of Light installation to date at the place that inspired it - Uluru.

Uluru: Scenic Flights

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, out to Lake Amadeus, Kings Canyon and Gosses’ Bluff on an Ayers Rock scenic flight. During this exhilarating experience, you will have a chance to truly appreciate the natural beauty of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Uluru: Scenic Helicopter Flights

One of the best ways to experience Uluru and the sprawling domes of Kata Tjuta is on an Ayers Rock Helicopter tour. Your aerial view will take in Uluru and the magnificent red desert, all the way to the striking rock formations of Kata Tjuta.

Uluru: Field of Light Self Guided Walk

Uluru: Field of Light Star Pass

Alice Springs: Half Day Western MacDonnell Ranges

Travel in a luxury 4WD to the West and East of Alice Springs and visit stunning locations in the MacDonnell Ranges. Stroll through the shady creek bed of Simpsons Gap with the rare black footed rock wallaby grazing on the rocky slopes.

Alice Springs: Full Day Western MacDonnell Ranges

Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges on a full-day tour from Alice Springs. Travel with an expert guide to highlights such as Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge, Ochre Pits, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek and Glen Helen. Have time to enjoy the region's natural beauty and capture photos of the Australian Outback as you hike into rock canyons, discover hidden waterholes and view historical sites.

Alice Springs: Outback Bush BBQ

A truly unique and authentic experience not to be missed. Become immersed in the spirit and grandeur that is the Australian Outback. From the moment you step off the coach you’ll be captivated by the setting sun exploding in a ray of colour adrift in the great expanse of the Northern Territory sky.

Alice Springs: Desert Park

Situated at the base of the West MacDonnell Ranges and just 10 minutes’ drive from Alice Springs, Alice Springs Desert Park is an authentic recreation of the different desert habitats and life as it has been lived by the local indigenous Arrernte people for thousands of years.

Alice Springs: Hot Air Balloon Flight

Visit Alice Springs and you’ll get to enjoy an amazing hot air balloon flight. Get to know your friendly crew as you journey to the launch site in the cool pre-dawn darkness. Then begin the ascent just as the morning light begins to illuminate the rugged MacDonnell Ranges.

Alice Springs: Sunset Camel Tour

The dazzling and unique sunsets that pass over Australia’s Red Centre each day are not to be missed during any visit to Australia, and during your time in Australia, you can try a fun way to see the amazing sunsets with this Alice Springs sunset camel tour.

Darwin: City Sights Explorer Tour

The Darwin City Explorer Tour is a perfect way to gain an overview of all the top attractions in the Darwin area. Travelling in air conditioned comfort, this tour includes visits to historical Palmerston Town (Palmerston was the original name of Darwin) and Parliament House, which is Australia's newest Parliament Building.

Darwin: Litchfield National Park

Join us on an exciting Litchfield National Park day tour from Darwin. Litchfield National Park is an Aboriginal Dreamtime region that retains its mysterious spirituality in the silence of still forest valleys and rock face escarpments.

Darwin: Kakadu by Air

The Kakadu National Park tour allows you to experience the unspoilt beauty of Kakadu. Tour Kakadu National Park and take in the spectacular aerial perspectives and a truly special showcase of Aboriginal culture, rugged landscape, mighty rivers and unique wildlife on show.

Darwin: Kakadu Adventure Tour

This wonderful, full day tour is ideal for experiencing the unspoilt beauty of Kakadu; taking in a truly special showcase of Aboriginal culture, rugged landscape, mighty rivers and unique wildlife. 

Cairns: Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail

We begin our day with a stunning journey on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Take in the world’s oldest rainforest as you glide silently over this pristine jungle canopy that has remained relatively unchanged for 130 million years.

Cairns: Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

Enjoy a day exploring the rainforest and amazing landscapes of the Cape Tribulation wilderness area. In the morning visit the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre and enjoy an indigenous presentation by the traditional owners of the gorge, the Kuku Yalanji people, before boarding your eco shuttle for the transfer into Mossman Gorge.

Cairns: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the best place to see crocodiles and local wildlife in Queensland and is situated just 40 minutes’ drive north of Cairns. Your excursion price includes return transport from Cairns and the admission fee.

Cairns: Sunset Dinner Cruise

A popular evening choice is our Sunset Dinner cruise. Departing from Marlin Marina, an evening dinner cruise on the Spirit of Cairns takes you along Cairns’ waterfront and Esplanade and onwards into the calm waters of Trinity Inlet and its many tributaries.

Cairns: Hot Air Balloon Flight

Hot air ballooning in Cairns, Australia, is a popular and exhilarating experience. The Atherton Tablelands, also known as the Cairns Highlands, is a much-admired destination for visitors from all around the world.

Great Barrier Reef: Guided Snorkel Tour

Experiencing the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s many ‘must-see’ attractions. World Heritage listed, it is the worlds largest coral reef. Snorkelling is not only a popular activity; it is one of the best ways to see and experience the reef. Once moored at our floating platform, you will find a dedicated snorkelling area, complete with rest stations where you can check out a dazzling world of amazing marine life and beautiful coral.

Great Barrier Reef: Seawalker Helmet Dive

On arrival on our floating pontoon, located in a natural lagoon fringed colourful coral, you will find marine biologists, dive instructors, qualified lifeguards and cruise attendants all waiting to share the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

Great Barrier Reef: Scenic Helicopter Flight

A breath-taking alternative to in-water activities and coral viewing vessels is to soar above it all in a helicopter for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the Great Barrier Reef! As you fly high above this natural wonder you will be amazed by its sheer size and beauty.

Great Barrier Reef: Scuba Diving

You’ll be amazed by its magical marine life and colourful coral from the moment you step off your catamaran and out onto the floating platform located on the Outer Reef. For a much closer look at this World-Heritage Listed site, why not make your Great Barrier Reef experience even more fascinating with either an Introductory SCUBA dive, or for qualified divers, a Certified dive.

Great Barrier Reef: Scenic Helicopter Transfer

We travel to the outer reef and our floating pontoon by high-speed catamaran. If you wish, you can make your day extra special by upgrading to a scenic helicopter transfer either to, or from the reef, providing the complete Great Barrier Reef experience from below and above the water.

Sydney: Harbour Explorer and Taronga Zoo

Experience Sydney like a local on the Harbour highway. With the option for a one day pass or a two day pass giving you the flexibility to hop on hop off at your convenience. This optional includes entrance to Taronga Zoo situated on the shores of Sydney Harbour offering stunning views of the city skyline and the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Sydney: Blue Mountains

Explore this million-acre World Heritage-listed area. This tour takes you away from the obvious tourist traps to show you the Blue Mountains from an insider’s perspective – from secluded lookouts, rainforest bush tracks and pristine valleys You still see all the main sights, like the fascinating Three Sisters, but you will be taken to the smaller lookouts where you’ll hopefully be the only ones enjoying the view. Peaceful bushwalks enhance the experience.

Sydney: Bridge Climb

Prepare to climb Sydney Harbour Bridge on this exhilarating excursion. Known to Sydneysiders as ‘The Coathanger’, the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world’s largest (but not longest) steel arch bridge. Connecting the northern and southern shores of Sydney’s sparkling harbour, the Bridge is an instantly recognisable symbol of Australia.

Sydney: Opera House Tour

The Sydney Opera House is a must-see landmark during your time in Australia. On this tour, you can take in all the mystery and majesty of the Australian icon on a one-hour VIP Sydney Opera House Tour. Discover the stories and secrets behind the commissioning, construction and controversy surrounding Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s masterpiece.

Sydney: Scenic Helicopter Flight

Enjoy Sydney from the best possible vantage point – by air. You will take a spectacular 20 minute flight in a luxury helicopter, including return transfers from your hotel. The flight begins from a private lounge at Sydney’s Mascot Airport, and heads out to the coast, giving you a bird’s eye view of some of the amazing luxury homes that nestle above the dramatic cliffs along Maroubra and Coogee.

Bali: Purifying Ceremony at Tirta Empul Temple

The Indonesian island of Bali is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its ancient temples. Tirta Empul temple is among the most famous, its waters said to...

Bali: Jatiluwih Village & The Batukaru Mountains Nature Tour

Discover the ‘real’ Bali and escape off the beaten track with this small group tour to the centre of Bali, visiting mountains, farms, ancient villages and temples. There’s more to...

Bali: Hai Sunset Dinner Cruise

Bali is one of the world’s most beautiful islands, and the Bali Hai cruise is one of the best ways to see the island in all its splendour, taking it...

Bali: Mengwi Temple, Monkey Forest & Tanah Lot Temple Tour

Discover ancient temples, meet the local wildlife and explore the countryside of inland Bali with this half-day Mengwi Temple, Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot tour. It’s one of several optional...

Bali: Kecak at Uluwatu Temple in Bali & BBQ seafood dinner

Discover the real Bali with an immersive evening of culture, dance and food on this evening tour to Bali’s Uluwatu temple. If you decide to visit Bali on a homebound...

Bangkok: Half Day City and Temples Tour

Thailand has over 26,000 temples or Wats (local name). This Half Day City and Temples tour will bring you to three of the most distinguished temples in Bangkok, beginning with Wat Traimit, the temple of the Golden Buddha.

Bangkok: Half Day Grand Palace

Bangkok’s Grand Palace Tour is a “must see” for all visitors to Bangkok. The Grand Palace complex, built in 1782, includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and is unquestionably one of the wonders of the world today.

Bangkok: Half Day Floating Markets

A glimpse of everyday life in Thailand can be seen at the Damnern Saduak floating market, situated around 100km south west of Bangkok. This Bangkok floating market can be explored on a unique Bangkok floating market tour. You’ll take an exhilarating narrow long-tailed speedboat ride through the marshes and stilt houses, which leads you to the Damnern Saduak Market.

Dubai: Helicopter Flight Tour

Highlights:  Fly over the iconic tower - Burj Khalifa! Explore sites of Jumeirah Beach and downtown Enjoy a helicopter tour over Dubai by flying from the most famous man-made island,...

Dubai: Desert Safari and Dinner

For a magical and memorable evening, join us on a Dubai Desert Safari tour. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and venture into the mysterious desert in the trained hands of your safari guides.

Night out at Colonial Charms of the City

To truly experience the vibrant heartbeat of Singapore, immerse yourself in the pulsating urban life of the Civic District. A heady blend of old and new, the precinct is home to a trove of cultural gems, hip bars and unforgettable feasts.

Singapore: Night out at Chinatown and Little India

Chinatown has come a long way since the early days when Chinese immigrants made this enclave their home. Filled with a sprawling myriad of shops and eateries, bustling with colourful and exciting activities set against a backdrop of rich history and heritage, Chinatown is not to be missed, especially in the evening when everything really comes alive.

Singapore: Night out at Marina Bay

Discover birds-eye view of the city and Marina Bay from the top of Marina's Bay Sand's Skypark. Enjoy one complimentary drink at CÉ LA VI Kiosk, Level 56, Marina Bay Sands Skypark, Hotel Tower 3. Experience the breath-taking view of the city lights, before moving onto the picturesque Marina Bay area where you experience Gardens by the Bay under the moonlit sky.

Singapore: Afternoon Tea in the Grand Lobby, Raffles Hotel

Highlights:  Afternoon Tea at Raffles Tour Description:  The Afternoon Tea ritual, much like Raffles Hotel, Singapore, was fashioned in the 19th century. A cherished tradition since its founding in Great...

Singapore: Gardens by the Bay

Recently voted one of the Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World, the Gardens by the Bay is also Singapore’s number 1 attraction according to Trip Advisor. Featuring more than 1 million plants from more than 5,000 species, Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is a must-see destination filled with wonders from around the world.

Singapore: Night Safari

The Singapore Night Safari is world’s first. Set in 40 hectares of secondary jungle, the mystery and drama of the tropical jungle after dusk unfolds at the Singapore Zoo Night Safari.

Early Booking Offers – SAVE up to £632 per couple!

Enjoy a homebound stopover from as little as £29 per person when you book one of our Australia tours departing after September 2025. Choose a city stay in bustling Bangkok, fashionable Dubai or the cosmopolitan Singapore, or opt to relax beachside in Bali, or Sentosa Island.

It really does pay to book early, as these stopovers usually cost up to £690 per couple for two nights’ accommodation in a four-star hotel, with full daily breakfast and airport transfers.

Destinations and prices as follows:

• Two-night stopover in Singapore , Bangkok or Dubai from just £29 per person (£58 for single occupancy).
• Three-night stopover in Bali from only £129 per person (£198 for single occupancy).
• Two-night stopover on Sentosa Island from £149 per person (£248 for single occupancy).

We also have great deals available on tours departing before September 2025, with homebound stopovers available from £99 per person. That’s still an incredible saving of up to £492 per couple!

Terms and conditions The savings quoted on Australia tours are off the price of a homeward stopover which normally costs up to £690 per couple. Early booking offers are for tours departing from September 2025. All offers are based on specific flights and booking classes and are subject to availability at the time of booking. If choosing to fly with Singapore Airlines your homebound stopover options are limited to Singapore or Sentosa Island. All offers must end 1st July 2024.

Singapore Stopover Offer, M Hotel City Centre

Find out more >

Bangkok Stopover Offer, Pathumwan Princess Hotel

Dubai Stopover Offer, Marriott Al Jaddaf Hotel

Bali Stopover Offer, Merusaka Nusa Dua

Sentosa Stopover Offer, Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Singapore

Customer reviews  .

The following customer reviews for the Very Best of Australia tour have been independently verified by Feefo, who are a leading independent reviews company.

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From start to finish the whole trip was well organised. The accommodation was first class, with the hotels in great locations which made it easy access to all the attractions.

After a long time searching for our Australian holiday, we definitely chose the right one with Distant Journeys. What an amazing holiday.

The holiday was amazing from start to finish. The itinerary was excellent and everything ran smoothly from start to finish, and our guide was a real star.

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Award-winning holidays.

Distant Journeys has won 18 awards over the last seven years, at the British Travel Awards, and we have been awarded Feefo’s highest Platinum Trusted Rating for customer satisfaction.

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Know you are paying the best price for your holiday with our Price Promise. We never offer last minute discounts and we guarantee the earlier you book the better the offer you’ll receive.

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Book in the confidence your money is 100% safe. All Distant Journeys holidays are fully bonded by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10913) or ABTOT (number 5427).

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DESTINATIONS

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Handcrafted Land Journeys

It’s more than an escorted tour...it’s an extraordinary, small group luxury journey in incredible destinations.

• Luxury Land Journeys | Escorted Tours
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Your Land Journey

Embark on a journey that combines the ease of seamless travel with unforgettable experiences that will immerse you into the rich cultures and breathtaking natural wonders of the world.

Destinations

The Land Experience

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Africa Land Journeys  

Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking marvels that await you in Africa. 

• Luxury Land Journeys | Escorted Tours
• Destinations
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Take in iconic landmarks and a kingdom teeming with magnificent creatures.

Experience the rich traditions, wildlife, and cultures of this beautiful continent with a handcrafted land journey. From South Africa's breathtaking natural landscapes and the majestic Victoria Falls to Kenya and Tanzania's expansive savannahs.

Explore Africa

Discover the highlights awaiting you in Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to enhance your luxury Africa escorted tour with Scenic.

• South Africa & Victoria Falls
• Kenya & Tanzania

Why choose Scenic? 

It’s more than an escorted land tour - it’s a luxury journey in a class of its own. Enjoy the combined ease of personalised travel, with a selection of experiences that offer you a true insight into the culture, landscape and history of Africa.

Small Group Touring 

Enjoy fully escorted small group touring with a maximum of 30 guests on your land journey in Africa (24 guests in East Africa). You’ll have unparalleled access at a comfortable pace as you explore your destination.

Scenic Special Stays

A selection of handpicked, luxury accommodation will ensure your land journey in Africa becomes that little bit more extraordinary. A choice of remarkable hotels notable for their location, character and heritage are available. Or stay in a selection of exclusive game lodges such as the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in South Africa’s Kruger National Park or Sarova Mara camp in Kenya’s renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Scenic Enrich

Be immersed in the cultural heart of your destination with our exclusive Enrich experiences. Journey into the traditional life and culture of warrior tribes like the Maasai and Zulu or indulge in an authentic African-style bush breakfast amidst the breathtaking open plains of the Maasai Mara. These once-in-a-lifetime moments are just a taste of what awaits you on our all-inclusive experiences.

Scenic Freechoice

Enjoy the highlights of Africa with Scenic’s all-inclusive Freechoice excursions. Choose from diverse sightseeing, activities and dining options at a pace that suits you. From touring South Africa’s famous vineyards or vibrant townships, walking in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps, in the tracks of an impala or on foot through bushland, you can choose from a wealth of experiences. 

Expert Tour Directors & Guides

When you embark on your luxury land journey, you can do so with the assurance that we’ve taken care of all the small details. Your expert, handpicked Tour Director, driver and local guides are dedicated to delivering an exceptional level of service to the Nth Degree and will be on hand to ensure you love every moment of your trip.

Scenic Game Drives

Go in search of Africa's 'Big Five': lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, and elephants. Your land journey takes you on open-top rides in custom Toyota Land Cruisers, designed for optimal photography and unrestricted viewing of these magnificent creatures.

Our experienced game rangers, along with expert local trackers, will be by your side, ensuring you have an unforgettable and educational safari through the African plains.

Where we travel in

Africa .

Featured  Itineraries 

Southern Africa Discovery

Essential Africa

South Africa Discovery

Southern African mystique

East Africa Adventure

Wonder beckons

South Africa & Victoria Falls

Your guide to Africa l and journeys 

Discover more....

Egypt & The Middle East

Japan & South Korea

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