Kuranda Village and Rainforest - Day 5

Departs in the morning (8 hours) - $119 USD

This fascinating excursion takes you deep into the heart of the tropical rainforest aboard the Cairns Scenic Railway. After free time for lunch and browsing in the markets of Kuranda, you’ll ride the skyrail over the treetops for magnificent views of rivers, lakes, the Barron Falls and Red Peak.

Aboriginal Dreamtime - Day 7

Departs in the morning (4 hours) - $85 USD

Journey into the bush to learn about the culture, stories and history of Australia’s Aboriginal people as you partake of tea and “damper,” traditional Aboriginal refreshments. Then try your hand at boomerang throwing and playing the didgeridoo!

Sunrise ballooning - Day 8

Departs in the morning (4 hours) - $235 USD

Sail through the gentle morning air high above the desert surroundings of Alice Springs on this breathtaking sunrise excursion. From this viewpoint, watch kangaroos and wallabies venture from beneath the brush. Your balloon ride lasts 30 minutes and upon landing, enjoy breakfast accompanied by champagne.

Please note: This trip requires an on-tour payment for government insurance tax of $20AUD (approximately $15USD, depending on exchange rate) and is weather dependent.

Fairy Penguin Parade - Day 10

Departs in the afternoon (7.5 hours) - $135 USD

Travel through the pleasant suburbs of Melbourne and across the San Remo Bridge to Phillip Island. Arrive by sunset on Summerland Beach, to witness the procession of dozens of tiny “fairy penguins” emerging from the sea after a day of searching for fish. In this completely unstaged nightly ritual, the diminutive birds waddle across the beach to burrow in the sand dunes and feed their young. Don’t miss this captivating and memorable natural wonder, sure to be a highlight of your stay in Australia.

Yarra Valley Winery via steamtrain - Day 11

Departs in the morning (9 hours) - $155 USD

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Melbourne’s Yarra Valley vineyards, along with a wine-tasting event to sample the region’s vintages. Later, tour the majestic eucalyptus forest and fern gullies of the Dandenong Mountains aboard “Puffing Billy,” an authentic steam train, en route to Emerald Lake Park.

Sydney harbor cruise and dinner - Day 12

Evening w/ dinner (2.5 hours) - $115 USD

Cruise what’s known as the most beautiful natural harbour in the world. On a warm evening, the harbour is vibrant blue and surrounded by parklands, gardens and reserves along its shores. You’ll enjoy an up-close view of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House before you have dinner onboard your ship.

Blue Mountains - Day 14

Departs in the morning (9 hours) - $145 USD

Often described as one of nature’s masterpieces, these mountains radiate an exquisite blue hue on a clear day, the result of sunlight striking the drops of eucalyptus oil that hang in the air. Here, visit The Edge Cinema, the Three Sisters rock formation and the Megalong Valley Heritage Centre. Lunch is included.

Walter Peak - Day 18

Evening w/ dinner (5 hours) - $85 USD

Departing Queenstown, take a scenic steamship cruise across Lake Wakatipu to visit Walter Peak. This original homestead is one of New Zealand’s most famous sheep and cattle stations. Enjoy a high-country dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant.

Please note: From May through July, the cruise portion will not be offered.