Aboriginal Culture & Australian Highlights

Aboriginal Culture & Australian Highlights

4 Views
13 Days From

$7236

$6956

Aboriginal Culture & Australian Highlights

13 Days Starting in Melbourne, Australia and ending in Cairns, Australia

Visiting: Melbourne, Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Sydney, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

AMSCFM25

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $7236 $6956 Operator discount: -$280

NB: Prices correct on 12-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia's rich cultural tapestry with the "Aboriginal Culture & Australian Highlights" tour. This immersive experience begins in vibrant Melbourne, where you'll explore Indigenous art and history with local guides. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Ocean Road or witness the charming Little Penguins on Phillip Island. In the heart of the Red Centre, marvel at the iconic Uluru and engage in Aboriginal Dot painting with local artists. Experience the mesmerizing Field of Light installation before heading to Sydney for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Opera House and a scenic harbour cruise. Conclude your adventure in tropical Cairns, where the Great Barrier Reef awaits, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural insights. With expert guides, luxurious accommodations, and a wealth of optional experiences, this tour promises a deep connection to Australia's diverse heritage and stunning landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore the National Gallery of Victoria and the Rocks District in Sydney with a First Nations Guide.

  • Discover Aboriginal culture and the art of Dot painting with a Maruku artist in the Red Centre.

  • Visit the Gallery of Central Australia in Uluru and the iconic Sydney Opera House.

  • Experience Bruce Munro's Field of Light installation in the Uluru desert.

  • Enjoy a scenic cruise on Sydney Harbour and the Great Barrier Reef with First Nations cultural guides.

  • Take a walking tour along the Yarra River in Melbourne with an Indigenous guide.

  • Witness the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road or the Little Penguins on Phillip Island.

  • Explore the domes of Kata Tjuta and enjoy a sunset with sparkling wine and nibbles.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Melbourne

Location: Melbourne

Accommodation: InterContinental Melbourne

Accommodation Name: InterContinental Melbourne

Melbourne extends a friendly welcome and you’re staying in the heart of the action from your hotel close to the city’s Yarra River. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers and start your tour with a Welcome Reception with Australian flavours, washed down with your choice of local wines or beers. It’s a delicious introduction to Melbourne’s cosmopolitan vibe to kick off your Australian tour.

Day 2: Discover The Indigenous Side To Melbourne

Location: Melbourne

Accommodation: InterContinental

Accommodation Name: InterContinental

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Unlock the sights of the city with Koorie Heritage Trust on a walking tour along the Yarra River led by an Indigenous guide. Learn how Aboriginal people in the state of Victoria once practiced their culture and how they continue to keep it alive today visiting art installations and hearing the Aboriginal history and stories of Melbourne. You’ve surely worked up an appetite, and lunch at Big Esso by Mabu Mabu, an Indigenous owned restaurant of renowned chef Nornie Bero, is just the place to enjoy local, seasonal cuisine while soaking in the space housing art by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Your day of art and culture continues at The Ian Potter Centre; National Gallery of Victoria Federation Square, home of Australian art, presenting Indigenous and non-Indigenous art from historical to present day.

Day 3: Explore Melbourne And Beyond

Location: Melbourne

Accommodation: InterContinental

Accommodation Name: InterContinental

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have one-of-a-kind encounters with your choice of Optional Experiences. Join a Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles Day Tour along Australia’s most spectacular coastline. Stop in the seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay before viewing the Twelve Apostles series of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Or, “ooh” and “aah” the incredible Little Penguins on Phillip Island where you’ll watch the tiny, adorable penguins make their daily trek from the sea to burrows on the beach. In the city, head to the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria for an Aboriginal Heritage Walk into the ancestral lands of the local Kulin Nation with an Aboriginal guide. You can also see the city sights from Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower, the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere.

Day 4: Uluru In The Red Centre

Location: Uluru

Accommodation: Desert Gardens

Accommodation Name: Desert Gardens

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Fly to Australia's cultural heart, Uluru, and venture into its iconic National Park. At the base of Uluru, learn about the park on a guided walk with your Travel Director to Mutitjulu Waterhole. You’ll love your guide's passion for the area and understanding on the ancient rock art rich with history and lifetimes of stories that have been preserved for hundreds of years. Tonight, over a sundowner of appetizers and sparkling wine, sit back as the surrounding grasses blow and the sky lights up in red and orange illuminating Uluru rising 348 metres high. It’s the best way to experience its true beauty and connect to the land. When Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park closes to other visitors, sip wine or beer with a classic barbecue of beef steak, lamb sausages and skewered chicken matched with native Australian flavors with Uluru as your backdrop. There’s even time for stargazing.

Day 5: Aboriginal Art And Kata Tjuta Sunset

Location: Kata Tjuta

Accommodation: Desert Gardens

Accommodation Name: Desert Gardens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist for a fun introduction to Western Desert Art at Maruku Arts Dot Art Experiences. Learn the meaning of dot art from Indigenous artists before crafting your story, painting your own piece of art as a memento. Learning from the artists and creating personalized art is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that will leave you enriched. Your visit also directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 and 11: Reduced Inequalities and Sustainable Cities and Communities, by supporting local Indigenous communities and culture. You then have time for a selection of Optional Experiences including a scenic helicopter or plane flight, or a visit to the Gallery of Central Australia showcasing emerging artists and the stories and culture of the Indigenous community. Head back into the National Park this afternoon to explore the domes of Kata Tjuta. A walk into Walpa Gorge puts you in the perfect spot to watch the sun set while enjoying sparkling wine and nibbles.

Day 6: Set Your Sights On Sydney

Location: Sydney

Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Accommodation Name: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise early to see the stars shining over the Field of Light art installation by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro. Arriving in darkness, you’ll watch 50,000 spheres of blue, purple, and white light up the desert before making your way up the hill to the sunrise viewing area. Return to your hotel for breakfast before flying to Sydney for the next leg of your Australian highlights journey. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, you have a free evening to explore the Harbour City.

Day 7: See The Sights Of The Harbour City

Location: Sydney

Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Accommodation Name: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kick off your day with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House. Step inside the sails and behind the curtain to learn all about what it takes to put on the incredible performances at this iconic venue. Further your cultural discoveries on an Aboriginal Dreaming Tour around the Rocks. Unlock the authentic history of Aboriginal people’s heritage in Sydney Harbour, their land and water use and their spiritual connection to the area as your guide shares how this ancient wisdom continues to reveal itself within the English settlement of The Rocks. This afternoon, enjoy a backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House on an Sydney Harbour cruise.

Day 8: Enjoy Free Time In Sydney

Location: Sydney

Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Accommodation Name: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore even more of Sydney with today’s tempting Optional Experiences. Take a trip to the World Heritage-Listed Blue Mountains viewing the famous Three Sisters rock formation up close. Or, stay in the city and scale to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge guided by a First Nations Storyteller. Delve into history on The Rocks Pub Walk treading in the footsteps of the convicts and locals of the past and stop for a drink in four of Sydney's oldest pubs. Get a bird’s eye view of the must-sees of the city on a helicopter flight. Or, take a guided tour of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Day 9: Sydney, Yours To Uncover

Location: Sydney

Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Accommodation Name: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Meals Included: Breakfast

With another free day in Sydney, explore the world-famous beaches of Bondi, Manly or choose another Optional Experience. On a Sydney HeliTour you will fly over magnificent Sydney Harbour giving you an unforgettable view of icons such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Rose Bay, and Manly Cove. Or stay down to earth on the Rocks Pub Tour. Share a drink in 4 of Sydney’s oldest pubs and tread in the footsteps of the convicts, larrikin gangs, & locals of the past.

Day 10: To Cairns, In The Tropical North

Location: Cairns

Accommodation: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Accommodation Name: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, jet off to Cairns where more incredible nature and culture await. You have the opportunity to join an Optional Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Cultural Cruise and tour. Set off from Cairns Harbour before visiting a working Indigenous Ranger base where the Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail begins, and passionate guides enlighten you with explanations of the native foods and bush medicine, ancient Aboriginal traditions, customs, and artifacts of the Mandingalbay Yidinji People.

Day 11: The Really Great Barrier Reef

Location: Great Barrier Reef

Accommodation: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Accommodation Name: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Cairns is the perfect jumping off point for a bucket list exploration of the world’s largest coral reef system in the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring with Dreamtime Dive, delve into this underwater wonderland, gain a deeper cultural understanding of this diverse ecosystem and its Aboriginal heritage. You’ll even hear the Great Barrier Reef creation story, interact with original clap sticks, and fire poles and watch live demonstrations of traditional dances and the enchanting didgeridoo. Accompanied by morning tea and lunch, you’ll love this enriched way to enjoy this iconic Australian sight.

Day 12: Make The Most Of Cairns

Location: Cairns

Accommodation: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Accommodation Name: Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

On last day in Cairns check out more of the city or venture out of town. You could opt to take the Kuranda Scenic Railway through a lush forests, gorges, ravines, and waterfalls to Kuranda’s 'village in the rainforest.' After an epic train ride, explore this village’s trails, wildlife sanctuaries, shops and markets before soaring above the canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Or, lean into your artistic side visiting Janbal Gallery for a painting class with Aboriginal artist Brian ‘Binna’ Swindley. You’ll be treated to a traditional smoking ceremony and a stroll into Daintree Rainforest National Park with an Aboriginal guide. Or, join a trip to Mossman Gorge to learn the secrets of one of the world’s oldest rainforests and cruise the Daintree River. Foodies will be tempted by a boutique food and wine tour tasting the best of the Atherton Tablelands, from avocados and mangoes to macadamia nuts and citrus. Meet up with the group for a dinner at Ochre Restaurant with views of the inlet and mountains as you enjoy Australian cuisine featuring the best local produce.

Day 13: Farewell Cairns

Location: Cairns

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s been a glorious trip of Australian highlights, but all good things must come to an end. Fill up on breakfast before your airport transfer.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

    Accommodation is provided in carefully selected hotels that are tried and trusted.

  • Porterage where hotels provide this service

    Porterage is included at hotels where this service is available.

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

    Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included in the tour.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    The tour includes must-see sightseeing experiences and surprise extras.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

    Travel is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • All land transport shown. All transfers shown

    All land transport and transfers as shown in the itinerary are included.

  • Optional Experiences and free time

    The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.

What's Not Included

  • Flights to and from Australia

    International flights to and from Australia are not included in the tour package.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

    Optional activities that are not listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour package.

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 12 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy seamless transfers and land transport as shown in the itinerary. Experience the convenience of flights between key destinations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey across Australia.

Accommodation

Stay in luxurious accommodations throughout your journey, including the InterContinental Melbourne, Desert Gardens in Uluru, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, and Flynn, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort in Cairns, ensuring comfort and style as you explore Australia's cultural and natural wonders.

Check out our Q&As

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of cultural experiences such as a walking tour with the Koorie Heritage Trust in Melbourne, a visit to Maruku Arts for a dot painting experience, and an Aboriginal Dreaming Tour in Sydney. Additionally, there is a Dreamtime Dive on the Great Barrier Reef to learn about its Aboriginal heritage.

  • Are there any unique art experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers a unique art experience at Maruku Arts where participants can learn about Western Desert Art and create their own dot art piece. There is also a visit to the Gallery of Central Australia showcasing emerging Indigenous artists.

  • What kind of meals are provided during the tour?

    The tour includes breakfast daily, up to half of the evening meals, and specific meals such as a Welcome Reception with local wines or beers, and a dinner at Ochre Restaurant in Cairns featuring Australian cuisine.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour uses luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi in most countries, and includes all land transport and transfers as shown in the itinerary. There are also flights between major destinations such as Melbourne, Uluru, Sydney, and Cairns.

  • What optional experiences are available during the tour?

    Optional experiences include a Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles Day Tour, a visit to Phillip Island to see Little Penguins, a scenic helicopter or plane flight over Uluru, and a Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Cultural Cruise in Cairns, among others.

  • What is the significance of the Field of Light installation in Uluru?

    The Field of Light is an art installation by Bruce Munro featuring 50,000 spheres of light that illuminate the desert. It is a unique experience where visitors can see the installation at sunrise, creating a magical atmosphere in the iconic landscape of Uluru.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Thursday - Tuesday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
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Operator discount: -$280

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Operator discount: -$289

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Operator discount: -$289

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    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

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