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If you love wilderness and want to explore Aboriginal culture, the
Red Centre, Top End, Rainforest and Reef tour
is for you. The tour begins in Australia’s Red Center, the broad, arid plains that are home to one of Australia’s most iconic features, Uluru (aka Ayers Rock). You’ll discover the history and culture of this awe-inspiring place through guided sunrise and sunset walks, and dine under the stars as a local storyteller captivates you with tales of the night sky. Next is Kakadu National Park, renowned for both its natural and cultural value. Teeming with rare flora and fauna and dotted with Aboriginal rock art, it’s a magnificent landscape, which you can explore from your luxury wilderness lodge.
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Then it’s on to
Far North Queensland, where you’ll discover the lush scenery and abundant wildlife of Daintree, the world’s oldest rainforest. You’ll cruise the Daintree River past crocodiles and waterfalls, tour Cape Tribulation, and take in the panoramic views from the Alexandra Range Lookout. Your journey wraps up with a stay at Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, just off the Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel or dive among abundant marine life, go sailing or game fishing, or just relax on the beach.
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If you want a sampling of Australia’s iconic sights, the
Australia Deluxe tour
is the perfect introduction to Australia. You’ll start by exploring the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne, followed by a scenic helicopter flight along the Great Ocean Road and over the famous Twelve Apostles. Next is Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where you’ll enjoy guided tours of Ayers Rock and the Olgas. Last but not least is Lizard Island, a secluded resort at the northernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef. (For an even more complete experience, add a few days in Sydney to the beginning or end of the trip.)
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Another way to see Australia from top to bottom is the
Northern Territory to South Australia
tour. After two nights at a luxurious wilderness camp in the Top End, just west of Kakadu National Park, you’ll board the famous Ghan Train for an epic journey through the Red Center, stopping to visit Katherine Gorge and Alice Springs. You’ll arrive in charming Adelaide, where you’ll have a day to explore before moving on to Kangaroo Island, known for its spectacular coastline and local wildlife, including kangas and koalas. You’ll be staying at Southern Ocean Lodge, a stunning eco-resort that is featured in the Feb 2013 issue of Conde Nast Traveler. (I’ve stayed here with my family—it’s amazing!)
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