Depart for Australia (2 Days)Fly over the international date line on your way to Australia.
Arrive Darwin ( Days)Check into the Quality Frontier Darwin & spend the rest of the day exploring Darwin.
Darwin & Litchfield National Park ( Days)Meet up with your fellow travellers and Contiki crew before heading out to stunning Litchfield National Park. On the way, we stop by the termite mounds, a local natural curiosity. These mounds are up to 4 metres high and are literally magnetic – your Tour Manager will fill you in on the details.
Then we hit the famous falls that make up the park - 4 waterfalls pour over a wide plateau into deep, picture-perfect waterholes surrounded by thick rainforest. Experience this natural playground and take a dip in the transparent waters.
Later, we return to Darwin. Check out the city’s cosmopolitan food markets right on the beach. It’s a cultural melting pot where you can try almost anything at an affordable price. Take your pick from oysters, Asian foods, and Indian curries to name a few and top it all off with a night out on the town with your group.
Darwin to Kakadu National Park (Breakfast, Dinner Days)Today, we hit the Darwin Museum and find out about the unlucky past of the Northern Territory’s capital.
Later, we travel to Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu, known for its ancient rock art, some of which is up to 20,000 years old.
Kakadu National Park (Breakfast Days)We spend the day exploring some of this 20,000 sq km World Heritage listed site. It’s packed with swamps, rainforest, wetlands, woodlands, plants, insects and 75 different types of reptiles.
Our included boat cruise takes us out onto Yellow Water, a lush inland lagoon. You’ll see some rock art, birdlife and even learn about the Aboriginal history of the area.
We get the background on local indigenous culture at the Warradjan Cultural Centre before we explore the “rock galleries” of Ubirr, where time-old paintings line the cave walls. Depending on the season, you can watch the sun set over this stunning site before we head back to the hotel for dinner.
Kakadu National Park to Katherine (Breakfast Days)Kick start the day by cooling off in the swimming hole at either Edith Falls or Gunlom, deep in the heart of the national park.
In the afternoon, we arrive in riverside Katherine. There’s an optional cruise through the gorgeous Nitmiluk Gorge. This National Park serves up vivid orange cliffs and rock formations that have been carved out by the river over hundreds’ of years. Keep an eye open for fresh water crocs and learn about local wildlife and folklore from our Local Guide.
Back in Katherine, your Tour Manager will organise an optional dinner tonight, so you can relax by the pool.
Katherine to Tennant Creek (Breakfast, Dinner Days)This morning, we pull into Mataranka Thermal Springs where you can have a swim in the thermal pools at a bush resort, where the mineral waters are a comfortable 34 degrees.
Next up: the oldest pub in the Northern Territory, Daly Waters, licensed since 1893. Check out the knick-knacks and memorabilia that cover the walls of this Australian institution. Grab a bite to eat here and maybe meet a local character or two.
We overnight in Tennant Creek, a “true blue” Aussie outback town, where you’ll get a feel for the size of Australia. In the middle of nowhere, this town is the only point of contact for the million acre cattle stations of the surrounding area.
Tennant Creek to Alice Springs (Breakfast, Dinner Days)As we leave the site of Australia's last gold rush, we're on to the Devils Marbles. This afternoon we arrive in Alice Springs for a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park.
Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) (1 Days)An opportunity this morning to join an Aboriginal Bush Tucker tour. We then cross the oldest river in the world, the Finke River, before turning onto the Lassiter Highway. Continuing past amazing Mt Connor, we reach the modern Yulara Resort, our accommodation for the next two nights. Watch the sun set and rise over Uluru and explore this world-famous monolith.
Uluru (Breakfast Days)Start off the morning nice and early and watch the sun rise over this iconic natural wonder from the viewing area.
Get familiar with Uluru when your Tour Manager takes you around its base and gives you the background of the spiritual significance of this site for Aboriginal people.
For something different, choose an optional Harley Davidson ride or scenic flight.
Learn more about indigenous culture at the Cultural Centre before visiting Kata Tjuta, which means “many heads” – this spot is famous for its 36 different rock formations.
After sunset, you can kick back beside the pool at the resort, wander around town or just hang out with your friends.
Uluru to Kings Creek Station (1 Days)A last look at Uluru before we drive to the mysterious rock formations known as Kata Tjuta or the Olgas. Hike through the Valley of the Winds or Olga Gorge. This afternoon we're off to Kings Creek Station adjacent to Watarrka National Park. A chance to explore this working cattle and camel station by quad bikes. Enjoy food cooked in true outback style, before rolling out your sleeping swag under a blanket of brilliant stars.
Kings Creek Station to Alice Springs (1 Days)Up early to take in the stunning sights as we wander along the ridge of Kings Canyon and discover the Garden of Eden and the Lost City. Then onwards to Alice Springs. Tonight why not enjoy a 'drovers blowout' dinner? Try outback delicacies like crocodile and emu.
Alice Springs (Breakfast, Dinner Days)You’ll get a real feel for this rustic and remote outpost as your Tour Manager introduces you to the local area. We visit the Desert Park where you’ll walk through different habitats found in the Northern Territory, including creeks, woodlands and sand dunes and learn about the plant and wildlife that survive in some of the world’s toughest conditions. You’ll also see animals from the Central Australian deserts that are almost impossible to see in the wild.
Later, we head into the stunning West MacDonnell National Park. We’ll stop at the important spiritual site for Aborigines, Simpsons Gap, where you’ll see rock-climbing wallabies, gum trees and a small water hole. Don’t forget to bring your swimming gear.
Use your free time this afternoon to check out the galleries and local Aboriginal art scene – this is the perfect opportunity to pick up some different gifts for back home.
Later, you’ll understand just how remote Alice Springs is and get an insider’s view on life in the outback at the Royal Flying Doctors. Our Local Guide will fill us in on the distances these doctors travel! We also visit the Old Telegraph Station, the original European settlement in the area, then head to Anzac Hill for full blown views over the desert.
The tour ends this afternoon and it’s time to farewell your new friends and Tour Manager.
Alice Springs to Cairns ( Days)This morning we have sightseeing of Alice Springs, taking in ANZAC Hill and seeing the Old Alice Springs Telegraph Station. Later you’ll board your flight to Cairns to begin your East Coast adventure.
Cairns ( Days)Wake up to the warm waters of Cairns. For those who are keen for a fun and thrilling ride on the rapids of the Tully River, join our optional white-water rafting adventure activity with our professional Local Guides.
There are loads more activities available in Cairns like hot air ballooning, sky diving and bungy jumping – just ask your Tour Manager for some more info.
In your free time on the first night, walk around the buzzing night markets. It’s the perfect place for shopping and with everything from fun, kitsch treasures to local crafts like boomerangs and didgeridoos. There’s something for everyone.
On Day 2, there’s another chance to experience the Great Barrier Reef on an optional day trip. Put on your snorkel gear and check out colourful fish, turtles, vivid coral and the incredible clear waters.
Your second night in Cairns is the last night on tour for some of the group so head down to a local hot-spot for a farewell dinner if you’re up for it.
Cairns to the Whitsundays (Breakfast, Dinner Days)Relax on the coach as we cruise past thick, tropical rainforests into Tully, home to some of Australia’s best white-water rafting.
Slowly leaving the tropics behind us, we hit Townsville for some free time. Check out the colonial buildings and get a feel for its maritime past as we drive to the downtown pedestrian-only area where you can grab some lunch.
See vistas over Magnetic Island, a National Park and bird sanctuary, before we continue our travels south and board a boat out to stunning Daydream Island in the Whitsundays.
As we cruise, soak up the crystal clear waters, white sands and mountain peaks of the islands.
The Whitsundays (Breakfast, Breakfast Days)After an included continental breakfast, day 1 is a free day to enjoy the picture-perfect Whitsundays.
If you’re keen to explore further afield and see the UNESCO listed Great Barrier Reef first hand, choose our optional trip to the Outer Barrier Reef. Our fun Local Guides will kit you out with snorkel gear and show you around this natural wonder.
Otherwise, slow the pace down, kick back and make the most of the fantastic facilities available at the resort. Go for a rainforest walk, swim in the pool, get into some beach or water sports, try your hand at fish-feeding, catch a film at the big outdoor cinema or laze about on the beach. Resort (B)
On day 2, get away from it all with our optional day sail. Check out some of the Whitsunday’s 74 islands from the boat - you’ll soon understand why this region is so famous. Experience what is known as one of the top ten beaches in the world, the uninhabited Whitehaven Beach.
Swim off the boat and play beach volleyball or cricket with the local skipper and crew before enjoying a tasty lunch and a few drinks on the way back to Daydream Island.
The Whitsundays to Country Homestead (Breakfast, Dinner Days)After a ferry back to the mainland, plug in you MP3 or chat with friends as we drive through scenic Mackay, with countryside full of vibrant green vegetation and sugar cane plantations. Continue down the Capricorn Coast and head inland to an authentic country homestead, right in the heart of Queensland’s cattle country, for our overnight stay.
During our time at Langmorn, a working cattle station, you’ll experience a taste of real Aussie country life. The farmer will show you around the enormous property in a behind-the-scenes look at daily life on the farm. Then taste local hospitality tonight as your welcoming hosts pile your table high with a hearty roast dinner.
Later, have a go at whip cracking under night lights and if it’s cool, settle in around the bonfire, kick back with a drink and hang out with your new friends.
Country Homestead to Fraser Island (Breakfast, Dinner Days)We drive back out to the coast this morning after breakfast and jump on board a ferry. Enjoy the cruise out to famous Fraser Island, where we’ll stay at an eco-lodge for our time here. Each cabin has its own kitchenette and living room, as well as a balcony – perfect for hanging out & watching the sunset.
Tonight, feast on our included buffet dinner at the Dingo Bar with the group and follow it up with some dancing or even karaoke.
Fraser Island ( Days)Experience a slice of paradise on Fraser Island today. This UNESCO World Heritage listed site is the largest sand island in the world and is 800,000 years old. Packed with around 40 fresh-water lakes, lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, Fraser Island lives up to its amazing reputation.
There’s a regular shuttle from our accommodation down to the main resort area, so you can take off and explore at your own pace.
With optional Fraser Island day tours, our Eco-Rangers will show you some of the island’s best spots and hidden treasures – make sure you keep your camera handy - this is one of Australia’s most beautiful regions. Head along 75 Mile Beach and make a stop at the gorgeous freshwater lake, Lake McKenzie, where you can have a swim.
If its whale season and the conditions are right, there’s a half day tour out on Hervey Bay, where you can see these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
With a free night, you could join your Tour Manager for drinks at sunset and a meal down by the water.
Fraser Island to Surfers Paradise (Breakfast Days)Once we’re back on the mainland, Noose is up next. It’s a trendy beach resort town. You could go local and grab some fish’n’chips to take down to the beach for lunch or head to the Surf Club for a bite to eat.
We also stop off in Brisbane today. You’ll get a feel for the capital of Queensland’s laid-back atmosphere when we have a look around town.
There’s an opal presentation here where you’ll learn all about Australia’s national gemstone. Have a go at rock-cracking and maybe even pick up a piece of opal to take back home.
Tonight, we pull into legendary Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast’s party hot spot and home to some of the best surfing beaches in the world.
Grab some of your new friends and join the party atmosphere of Surfers Paradise tonight. With loads of restaurants and buzzing nightlife, there’s something for everybody. Head to the happening Orchid or Cavill Avenues, where clubs and bars line the street or shoot some pool at the pub.
Surfers Paradise ( Days)With a free day, hang out among the bronzed bodies and surfers on the golden sands. Our hotel is only a short walk from the beach.
For adrenaline-junkies, there’s an optional tandem skydive, where you can get your thrills and an amazing bird’s eye view over the area. Otherwise, try out some kayaking or even a Harley Davidson ride – your Tour Manager can help you get the most out of your time here.
You could also hit the shops – Surfers has some great places to shop and a huge outlet mall for bargains, so get some tips from your Tour Manager.
Tonight, there’s the chance to experience ‘Draculas’ – a fun vampire-themed cabaret show and dinner. Watch dancers, singers and comedians perform as you tuck into a three course meal.
Surfers Paradise to Coffs Harbour (Surf Village) (Breakfast, Dinner Days)This morning, we visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll get up close to Australia’s amazing native animals. Cuddle a koala, feed the kangaroos and see wombats, emus, crocodiles, dingoes, Tasmanian devils and colourful birds. You can feel good about doing this too, as our visits to this not-for-profit organisation go towards the sanctuary’s animal hospital and help over 4000 injured animals every year.
Next up: gorgeous Byron Bay. With a laid-back lifestyle, cute little shops, organic food, alternative therapies and around 30km of pretty beaches, it’s a must see. Byron Bay is also known for its incredible marine life. Head out to Cape Byron, Australia’s most easterly point and see dolphins and humpback whales if you’re lucky, then grab some lunch back in town and maybe take a swim at the beach.
Later we arrive in Coffs Harbour, home to surf beaches, fishing and banana plantations. This is a chance for a real Aussie experience – we’re staying at a Surf Camp. Our cabins are right on the beach, so soak up the surf vibes and relax by the open fire under the stars tonight.
Coffs Harbour to Shoal Bay (Port Stephens) (Breakfast, Dinner Days)Jump start the day by hitting the waves & learning to surf with some professional instructors as you have a go at Australia’s national sport in a fun optional activity.
This afternoon, we arrive in the popular holiday spot of Port Stephens, known for its boating, fishing and warm hospitality. Stretch your legs with a walk along the beach. Tonight, toast your travels with your group, Tour Manager and Driver over a typical Aussie BBQ dinner and kick back with a few local beers.
Shoal Bay to Sydney (Breakfast Days)This morning you can join our optional dolphin cruise tour and get up close to some bottlenose dolphins, or choose our sand-boarding optional and hit the massive dunes.
It’s onto Sydney. From the high-energy downtown area to its popular beaches, Sydney has something for everyone. Get familiar with the city on a sightseeing tour with your Tour Manager. First up, we head into the historic district where you’ll get an overview of the glistening harbour from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a famous sandstone seat carved by convicts. You’ll soon understand why this is one the world’s most beautiful harbour cities. See the sails of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Sydney Opera House and the iconic Harbour Bridge and maybe even get a feel for the sun and surf lifestyle of Bondi Beach.
Then the tour ends here and it’s time to say farewell to you new friends.
CairnsCity orientation tour
DarwinSee the harbour & East Point Military Reserve
DarwinVisit the Darwin Museum to see the Cyclone Tracy display
Litchfield National ParkSee the termite mounds
Litchfield National ParkSee the rainforests & sandstone formations
Litchfield National ParkEnjoy a swim at Florence Falls
Kakadu National ParkStay in Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National ParkHike to see the Aboriginal rock art
Kakadu National ParkVisit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Kakadu National ParkCruise to see crocodiles & native bird life
KatherineVisit Katherine Gorge & see the sheer rock walls and wildlife
MatarankaSwim in the thermal pools
MatarankaVisit Elsey, the historic "We of the Never Never" homestead
Daly WatersVisit the famous Outback pub
Tennant CreekVisit the site of Australia's last gold rush
Devils MarblesVisit the unique rock formation known as Karlu Karlu
Wycliffe WellVisit the town known for its UFO sightings
Ti TreeVisit the Red Sands Art Gallery to see Aboriginal art & didgeridoos
Kings Creek StationVisit the cattle & camel station
Kings Creek StationEnjoy an evening bush camp
Kings Creek StationSee the desert night sky & stars
Kings CanyonVisit Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park
Kings CanyonHike along the canyon ridge
Kings CanyonVisit the 'Garden of Eden' waterhole and the 'Lost City'
UluruUluru National Park entrance fee
UluruVisit Uluru at sunset and sunrise
UluruHike the base of Uluru
UluruVisit the Uluru Cultural Centre
UluruRelax in the Yularu Resort
UluruVisit Kata Tjuta (The Olga's) & hike the Valley of the Winds
Erldunda & Mt. EbenezerVisit a traditional Outback Roadhouse
Erldunda & Mt. EbenezerSpot kangaroos in their natural habitat
Erldunda & Mt. EbenezerSee the unusually shaped Mt. Connor
CairnsCity orientation tour
Alice SpringsVisit ANZAC Hill lookout
Alice SpringsVisit Alice Springs Desert Park to see the unique Outback animals
Alice SpringsVisit the West MacDonnell National Park
Alice SpringsSee Alice Springs Telegraph Station
Alice SpringsFlight from Alice Springs to Cairns
Simpson's GapVisit the important Aboriginal cultural site, home to the blackfooted wallaby
CairnsCity orientation tour
TullyCross the Tully River, home to Australia's best white water rafting
CairnsCity orientation tour
Airlie BeachVisit the vibrant seaside town
WhitsundaysTransfer boat to Daydream Island
WhitsundaysStay on Daydream Island and enjoy all the resort facilities
WhitsundaysSee native birdlife & wallabies
MackayVisit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry
Capricorn CoastVisit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn
Capricorn CoastRockhampton sightseeing tour
Country HomesteadStay at a traditional Country Homestead
Country HomesteadEnjoy a bush dance evening
Country HomesteadSee the farm animals & kangaroos
Fraser IslandStay on this World Heritage listed island
Fraser IslandStay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort facilities
NoosaVisit the picturesque seaside town & beach
CairnsCity orientation tour
BrisbaneSee the Brisbane River & Southbank
BrisbaneSee an Opal demonstration
Surfers ParadiseVisit Jupiter's Casino
Surfers ParadiseVisit the 'Gold Coast' beaches
CurrumbinVisit the wildlife sanctuary, cuddle a koala and see native Australian animals including kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, dingoes & Tasmanian devils
Byron BayVisit Cape Byron, Australia's most eastern point
Coffs HarbourSee the Big Banana & banana plantations
SydneySee the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge
SydneyVisit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour
SydneySee the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms
$150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more
Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how
Book a Contiki to Europe & save $300 on airfare per couple. They've got deals for solo travelers also.
Valid for new bookings made between March 1st-30th only and must pay air portion in full by March 30, 2010. Offer is valid for $300 off airfare per couple or $150 off if single traveler. All travel myst be completed by NOv 30, 2010. Offer is valid on major airlines. Air tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable after purchase. Once payment is received, 100% cancellation penalties apply. No name changes allowed once a reservation is made. Offer is subject to availability at the time of booking. Offer can be combined with all brochure discounts and $150 Spring Flin tour promo. Promotion can be withdrawn at any time.
CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT
5% Off for Military Members and Spouses...
Valid for any Contiki trip 8 days or longer. Active or non-active members are eligible, as long as a valid military ID is provided for each person applying the discount. Mention promo code MILITARY0910 to redeem.
Applies to new bookings only. Verification is required. Good for travel through 12/31/2010 Spouses must be traveling at the same time as the military member to apply the discount. Other restrictions may apply.
5% off for Contiki Alumni
So you've experienced your Contiki and are ready to go again? You lived it up with travelers from around the world and want more Contiki. Now book another trip 8 days or longer and get 5% off!
Offer valid through August 31, 2010. Valid for trips 8 days or longer. Please call uoo-942-3301 for more details. Verification of previous trip required.
Travel With Friends and Save Big!
Save 5%
Get 4 or more people to book at the same time and each save 5% off the land.
Save 7.5%
Book 7 or more on the same vacation at the same time and score a 7.5% discount per person.
Round up 10 friends or more, booking the same trip at the same time, and each person saves 10% OR the 11th person travels for FREE.
Book 3 in a room and save 5% on most superior tours.
Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts
Early Payment Discount
Offer #1: Save up to US$399
Must book and pay in full at least 12
months prior to trip departure date.
Valid for select trips only. Offer #2: Save up to US$319
Must book and pay in full at least 6
months prior to departure date.
Valid for select trips only.
Multiple Trip Discounts - Save $100
Book any 2 Contiki trips 10 days or longer, at the same time & get up to US$100 off the cost of the second tour.
Europe Europe – Save US$100
Europe America – Save US$100
Europe + Great Britain – Save US$100
Tours may be in different countries or regions.
Australia & New Zealand - Save $100
Book an Australia and New Zealand vacation at the same time and save US$100 off the total cost.
Tours must be a minimum of 10 days.
Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100
Share the love! Now that you’ve traveled Contiki and had a great time, it’s time to spread the word and earn some cash! Tell your friends about Contiki and earn up to $100* for each person you refer that books.
Your friends score from the deal too – each one that books a trip eight days or longer will receive $100 in excursion vouchers (good for activities like bungee jumping, gondola cruises and wine tasting).
You can refer up to 10 friends (which equals $1,000 for you!) Simply complete this form and you're on your way. Remember, no cheating ("me, myself and I" do not qualify.)
Terms and Conditions:
1.The referral program is valid for new trips booked as of May 1, 2009.
2.You can refer as many passengers as you’d like! You must provide valid names and e-mail addresses (e.g. you may not enter your own e-mail address or repeat the same address more than once). We will issue up to 10 $100 gift cards per Referrer per calendar year. Referees must be new passengers. Not combinable with Past Passenger discount.
3.Referee must between 18-35 years old at the time of travel.
4.Referee must have been referred online and must mention "Refer a Friend" and Referrer's name when booking their trip.
5.Upon booking their trip, the Referee will receive in their travel documentation $100 in Optional Excursion vouchers. The original Optional Excursion vouchers can be redeemed while on their trip and cannot be exchanged for cash reimbursement.
6.The Referred passenger(s) are responsible for reviewing their travel documentation and making sure they received the Optional Excursion Vouchers prior to their departure from the United States. Contiki will not issue a cash refund to passenger(s) for any Optional Excursion because the Referred passenger(s) paid the tour manager directly, forgot to pack or bring the vouchers on the tour, did not use the entire value of the vouchers, looses the vouchers, or advises us after their travel that they did not receive the vouchers.
7.If booking is made within 14 days of the departure, we cannot guarantee receipt of physical vouchers unless traveler expedites their documents at an additional cost. Scanned copies are not available
8.Contiki is not responsible if a Referrer fails to properly identify a Referee. Contiki will not retroactively record a friend who was not identified at the time of sign-up.
9.Contiki will not allow a Referee to be claimed by more than one Referrer. Once a Referee’s e-mail address has been given, it may not be changed.
10.Cash will be given out in the form of a gift card from a major credit card company with a value of $100. Gift card will be issued to Referrer only after Referee completes travel on their trip of 8 days or longer. If a Referee cancels for any reason, the referral reward is forfeited.
11.Offer is not valid for tour purchases made outside the U.S.
12.Contiki reserves the right to resolve any disputes at its sole discretion.
$100 Referral cash will be received as a $100 American Express cash gift card.