Sydney and Great Barrier Reef

Explore Sydney on foot through The Rocks, where cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively shops bring the city’s past and present together. Walk across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge for sweeping harbor views, then stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens to discover native plants and scenic waterfront landscapes.

Explore the Sydney Opera House and learn the story behind its iconic design. Discover architect Jørn Utzon’s vision, get a close look at the famous shell tiles, and step inside to visit performance spaces. Take in the craftsmanship and experience one of the world’s most recognized cultural landmarks.

Visit Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand, known for its surf culture, lifesaving history, and vibrant atmosphere. Learn what makes Bondi unique, then enjoy free time to relax, explore, or try surfing. Continue to The Gap for coastal views and Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for iconic harbor views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Grab a board and learn to surf at Bondi Beach. Start on the sand, then head into the water as experienced surfers and lifeguards guide you through the basics. With about 90 minutes of instruction, plus surfboards and wetsuits included, you’ll build confidence and catch your first waves.

Spend a day at the scenic Blue Mountain National Park - the traditional homelands of six groups of indigenous people – Darug, Gundungurra, Wiradjuri, Wanaruah, Darkinjung and Tharawal. Travel through rainforests and encounter new plants and wildlife. Observe the amazing sandstone rock formation known as the Three Sisters. The Blue Mountains offer a variety of lookout points for you to take in the views.

Hop aboard the Manly Ferry, one of Sydney’s most iconic experiences. Departing regularly to and from Manly to Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House before passing Kirribilli House the official residence of the Prime Minister.

Get to know the vibrant Manly, known for its stunning beaches, outdoor cafés, and cool restaurants. The streets are lined with surf and beach-ware shops and little boutique stores. Get active with a scenic coastal walk or go for a swim, hire a bike or walk to Fairy Bower Beach, where the little penguins reside.

Explore Cairns, a tropical city in Far North Queensland known for its access to the Great Barrier Reef and ancient rainforests. Stroll along the lively Esplanade with waterfront views, then visit the Cairns Night Market on Wharf Street, where local food, shops, and evening energy bring the city to life.

No trip to Cairns is complete without a visit to the outer reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s top natural wonders. Travel from Cairns to Moore Reef, where the underwater world awaits. Upon arrival, take part in a guided snorkel safari and join the Eye on the Reef program with a marine biologist to help monitor reef health. Experience the vibrant marine life and color below the surface on a semi-submersible coral viewing tour.

Outside Cairns, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers a unique perspective on the surrounding forest. Six-seat cable cars travel five miles above the canopy to the village of Kuranda. There, explore encampments that showcase aspects of Aboriginal life, with experiences led by elders, including fire-making, didgeridoo playing, and bush food and medicine.

Travel along the Coral Sea coast, one of Australia’s most scenic drives, to Daintree National Park, home to the Kuku Yalanji people and the world’s oldest rainforest. Cruise the Daintree River, walk the rainforest canopy, and learn about this fragile ecosystem. Visit an organic orchard, explore Mossman Gorge, and end at Palm Cove.