11 Day From the Blue Mountains to the Great Barrier Reef
Sydney/Warrane to Cairns/Gimuy
This 11-day tour takes you on a breathtaking journey through Australia’s most iconic destinations. Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains, explore Sydney’s vibrant harbor and historic sites, uncover Brisbane’s intriguing history, and dive into the tropical paradise of the Great Barrier Reef. Highlights include stargazing with an astrophysicist in the Blue Mountains, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visiting the world-famous Australia Zoo, and participating in reef conservation efforts with a private marine biologist. With luxury accommodations, private transfers, and curated experiences, this adventure showcases the very best of Australia.
DIRECT TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE BONUS: AUD $100 Food & Beverage credit per room per stay at select hotels, when you travel by March 31, 2026.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Blue Mountains
• Explore the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, known for dramatic cliffs and the famous Three Sisters.
• Unlimited access to Scenic World’s Railway, Skyway, and Cableway rides.
• Evening stargazing tour with a local astrophysicist, featuring telescope viewings and constellation storytelling.
Sydney
• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for 360-degree views of the city and harbor.
• Morning panoramic Sydney city tour, including Bondi Beach and The Rocks.
• Evening Sydney Harbour Long Dinner Cruise with a progressive 3-course meal.
Brisbane
• Historical walking tour uncovering Brisbane’s true crime stories.
• Full-day visit to Australia Zoo, home to world-famous wildlife conservation efforts.
Great Barrier Reef
• Snorkel and participate in reef conservation efforts with a private marine biologist.
• Contribute to citizen science projects and reef monitoring programs while exploring one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
ACCOMMODATIONS AND OTHER INCLUSIONS
• Blue Mountains: Echoes Boutique Hotel & Restaurant (2 Nights in a Deluxe View Room)
• Sydney: Harbour Rocks Hotel (3 Nights in a Heritage Queen Room)
• Brisbane: voco Brisbane City Centre (2 Nights in a Standard City View Queen Room)
• Cairns: Cairns Harbourside Hotel (3 Nights in a Standard King Room)
• Private Transfers between airports, hotels, and tour locations
This tour offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion, making it an unforgettable journey through Australia's most iconic destinations.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
Ask for pricing and how we can further customize this tour for you!Day 1: Sydney (Warrane)
Arrive Sydney (Warrane), on to Blue Mountains
Accommodations: Echoes Boutique Hotel & RestaurantIncludes: Private Car/Driver Sydney International Airport to Blue Mountains (Katoomba). Ultimate Discovery Pass - Scenic World Blue Mountains includes unlimited use of Railway, Skyway and Cableway during Scenic World operating hours on day of admittance. Valid for a one day visit.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS: AUD $100 Food & Beverage credit per room per stay.
Blue Mountains, New South Wales: Named the Blue Mountains because of the blue haze that can be seen by light interacting with the vapour emanating from the millions of eucalypt trees, this rugged region features dramatic cliffs, rock formations, waterfalls and caves. Many quaint villages dot the landscape, offering excellent restaurants, cafes, pubs, gardens, galleries, antique stores and other shops to entertain less energetic visitors. The area was listed in 2000 as Australia's 14th World Heritage Area for its unique landforms, geological history, flora and fauna and its cultural significance to the Daruk and Gundungura Aboriginal people. Older than America's Grand Canyon, the area is home to living fossils like the Wollemi Pine. Bushwalking, rockclimbing, canyoning, abseiling, mountain biking and 4WDriving are all possible.
Your hotels is located at the very edge of the Jamison Valley at Echo Point and is a 5 minute walk to the world famous Three Sisters. The unique location offers stunning and uninterrupted panoramas of the National Park from every room, providing guests with an ever-changing and breath-taking view. Guests of the property can also enjoy access to the facilities at Lilianfels, which is located next door.Day 2: Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Evening Star Gazing Tour
Accommodations: Echoes Boutique Hotel & RestaurantIncludes: Breakfast. Star Gazing Tour led by a local Astrophysicist, laser-guide constellation storytelling, naked-eye astronomy and navigation tips, telescope viewing, astronomy binocular viewing, Q & A with an astrophysicist and hot chocolate (barista oat milk).
Enjoy today to relax or get out and explore on your own.
Evening Star Gazing Tour: Blue Mountains Star Gazing offers the opportunity to embark on a space journey in the World Heritage National Park, the Blue Mountains' darkskies. This experience is undertaken at the Wentworth Falls Lookout - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sydney, away from the city lights. Experience an award-winning stargazing tour led by a local astrophysicist. You have the opportunity to use a state-of-the-art Telescope, viewing of celestial objects.Day 3: Blue Mountains to Sydney (Warrane)
Transfer to Sydney. Sydney Bridge Climb
Accommodations: Harbour Rocks HotelIncludes: Breakfast. Private Car/Driver from Blue Mountains (Katoomba) to Sydney City Hotel. Summit by Day includes Climb, Printed Climb Group Photo, BridgeClimb Cap, Bridge and Sydney history commentary.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS: AUD $100 Food & Beverage credit per room per stay.
Sydney (Warrane): Soak in the beauty and spirit of Sydney/Warrane, a city defined by its iconic harbour, relaxed outdoor lifestyle, and natural charm. Cruise beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge or catch a ferry to Manly, passing the world-renowned Sydney Opera House along the way. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach, explore the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, or enjoy a peaceful swim at Coogee. Wander through the cobblestone lanes of The Rocks or explore the markets, boutiques, cafés, and pubs of Paddington. With more than 70 sparkling beaches, a vibrant food scene, lively festivals, and round-the-clock energy, Sydney/Warrane offers something for everyone. This stunning city sits on the traditional lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who have cared for this Country for tens of thousands of years. Their deep spiritual connection to the harbour and surrounding landscape continues to shape the identity and cultural fabric of Sydney/Warrane today.
Your hotel is located in the historic Rocks precinct and 250 metres from Circular Quay. It was built in 1887, on the original grounds of the Sydney Hospital. All rooms are equipped with modern facilities, carefully designed to be functional yet modern. They are decorated in rich heritage tones and complemented by soft lighting which captures the historic ambience of the heritage listed property. Please note that the property does not have lift facilities.
Summit by Day: Your 3 hour tour commences with a comprehensive briefing and safety demonstration, before you are led by one of BridgeClimb’s Climb Leaders, on a guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The tour takes you along the top arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. The steady incline to the summit leaves you free to focus your attention on the surroundings, with the opportunity to witness 360-degree views of Sydney including east to the Sydney Opera House, west to the Blue Mountains and the Harbour City surrounds. Upon conclusion receive a photograph of your group, and cap. Upon conclusion, make your own way to your Sydney accommodation.Day 4: Sydney (Warrane)
Panoramic Sydney Sights & Habour Dinner Cruise
Accommodations: Harbour Rocks HotelIncludes: Breakfast. Panoramic Sydney Sites tour with hotel pick up. Sydney Harbour Long Dinner Cruise with 3 course dinner and beverages.
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights: This 3.5 hour tour provides you with the opportunity to see Australia’s largest city and New South Wales’ capital, Sydney. Visit the historic Rocks area and hear early convict history. Enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. See the shopping heart of the city, the Queen Victoria Building and visit Sydney’s trendy Oxford Street district. Travel through elegant Paddington with its terrace houses before arriving at the Pacific Ocean where you will see the superb coastal cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte. Travel on to famous Bondi Beach, visit the beachfront promenade and enjoy a coffee or cool drink (own expense). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and Sydney’s best panoramic view at Dover Heights. Return to the city via Double Bay, Kings Cross and Mrs Macquarie’s Point for a final magical viewpoint over the harbour. Your tour concludes at either Circular Quay or Darling Harbour/King St Wharf precinct. Make your own way back to your accommodation.
Sydney Harbour Long Dinner Cruise: Join your 4 hour evening cruise where you will see the Harbour come alive. With the light of the city and moon reflecting off its pristine waters, the Harbour offers a magical setting for all who cruise on it. Discover the beauty of the harbour and then stop at Balmoral for your choice of entrees and mains from the menu accompanied by a selection of beverages at a world famous iconic harbour side restaurant. After you have finished dining, the time will come to head back to the boat and return to the main harbour. Indulge in a beautiful cheese platter onboard while Sydney Princess Cruises helps you enjoy the mystical allure of Sydney Harbour at night.Day 5: Sydney (Warrane)
Accommodations: Harbour Rocks HotelIncludes: Breakfast.
Today is a free day to explore Sydney further.Day 6: Sydney (Warrane) to Brisbane (Meanjin)
Transfer to Brisbane. True Crime Walking Tour
Accommodations: voco Brisbane City Centre, an IHG HotelIncludes: Breakfast. Private Car/Driver from Sydney City Hotel to Sydney Domestic Airport and from Brisbane Domestic Airport to hotel. Afternoon Tour with Guide and drink.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS: AUD $100 Food & Beverage credit per room per stay.
Brisbane (Meanjin): The river city of Brisbane/Meanjin, is a vibrant sub-tropical city built on the traditional lands of the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, who have lived here for tens of thousands of years. As Queensland’s capital and Australia’s third-largest city, Brisbane is home to nearly two million people from diverse cultural backgrounds. The city offers a warm, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere with world-class infrastructure, including cultural precincts, theatres, museums, and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy sporting venues, parklands, and scenic river walks. Brisbane’s mild climate invites outdoor exploration in popular spots like South Bank Parklands and Queen Street Shopping Mall. Many locations across the city hold cultural, spiritual, and historical significance to Aboriginal communities, reflecting the ongoing connection of First Nations peoples to the land. Brisbane provides a rich blend of modern urban life and living Indigenous heritage.
Situated on the banks of the Brisbane River with panoramic views over Southbank Parklands and the Performing Arts Complex, voco Brisbane City Centre is a perfect base when staying in Brisbane. Just a few minutes walk to Queen Street Mall and the excitement of the Treasury Casino. This property interiors are heavily influenced by its riverside location, as seen in the bed head mural, to create an upscale, laidback look and feel. Each of the hotel’s artfully designed premium guestrooms have a warm, neutral palette features dark blue hues and bright pops of the signature voco yellow as seen in the hand-picked artworks and furniture which is artfully placed to create zones within the room. The have an abundance of natural light, plush sustainable bedding, vibrant artworks, smart in-room technology, modern bathrooms and some rooms have sweeping views over the city or river.
Afternoon Brisbane True Crime Walking Tour: Uncover Brisbane’s dark and intriguing past on this 3 hour walking tour of Brisbane. This journey begins at King George Square, where an expert guide will share gripping tales of notorious crimes and mysteries that shaped the city’s history. As you navigate Brisbane’s streets, you will delve into its underbelly, exploring key landmarks and hidden corners that reveal a macabre side of the city few ever see. The tour concludes at Howard Smith Wharves under the iconic Story Bridge, where you can unwind with a refreshing drink (own expense) while reflecting on the stories uncovered. Perfect for history buffs and thrill-seekers, this tour promises to captivate and haunt your imagination. At the completion of your tour in Fortitude Valley, make your own way to your Brisbane accommodation.
Domestic flights are not included in your arrangements. Please ask for details.Day 7: Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Australia Zoo Visit
Accommodations: voco Brisbane City Centre, an IHG HotelIncludes: Breakfast. Hotel pickup and drop off from selected hotels in Brisbane, admission to Australia Zoo.
Australia Zoo Visit: On this 8.5-9 hour experience, you will be transferred to Australia Zoo. Australia Zoo is home to a team of passionate conservationists working around-the-clock to deliver an animal experience like no other. It is the ultimate wildlife adventure delivering conservation through exciting education through daily conservation shows. At the completion of your experience, you will be transferred to your Brisbane city hotel.Day 8: Brisbane (Meanjin) to Cairns (Gimuy)
Accommodations: Cairns Harbourside HotelIncludes: Private Car/Driver from Brisbane Hotel to Brisbane Domestic Airport and from Cairns Domestic Airport to hotel.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS: AUD $100 Food & Beverage credit per room per stay.
Carins (Gimuy): Lying at the centre of a tropical paradise on the shores of Trinity Bay, Cairns/Gimuy is the gateway to some of Australia’s greatest natural attractions. Sitting offshore and shaping the city’s character is the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most popular snorkelling and diving sites. To the north of the city lies another World Heritage listed treasure, the ancient tropical rainforests of the Daintree National Park. The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree National Park are living cultural landscapes filled with sacred sites, story places, and totemic connections. The city itself offers a large range of accommodation options suiting all budgets, and visitors to Cairns will also be treated to a variety of international standard cafes and restaurants.
This modern and comfortable hotel offers a waterfront location close to Cairns City centre. The hotel offers casual, contemporary decor in peaceful surroundings with spacious guest rooms and accommodation suites, each with private balconies and elegantly appointed furnishings which reflect the tropical theme of the region. The swimming pool and spa area with landscaped gardens overlooks Cairns Esplanade.
Domestic flights are not included in your arrangements. Please ask for details.Day 9: Great Barrier Reef
Full Day Reef Experience
Accommodations: Cairns Harbourside HotelIncludes: Breakfast. Hotel pick up and drop off, morning and afternoon tea, buffet lunch, snorkelling equipment, escorted by a private marine biologist guide, personalised training in marine conservation, research material and data collection tools, Reef Levy comprising of Reef Tax, Port Charge and other administration fees.
Full Day Reef + Private Marine Biologist - Snorkeller: Your 9 hour tour commences with a transfer from your hotel to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal to check-in. You will be greeted and escorted throughout the day by your own on-board Marine Naturalist. Take part in a one of a kind Citizen Science and Research Team and contribute to ongoing reef conservation projects on the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef. Support the work of local conservationists with citizen science activities that you can expect to participate in during your day such as: Completing Sightings Network submissions and Rapid Monitoring Survey Reports for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority as part of the Eye on the Reef network, assisting the Master Reef guides as they survey reef locations and monitor reef health, monitoring Coral Planting as part of the Coral Nurture Program. Upon arrival back at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal you will be transferred by coach to your Cairns area accommodation.