Road Scholar : Home
Great Australian Train Trek

Program Number: 3110RJ
Start and End Dates:
2/16/2013 - 3/14/2013; 10/5/2013 - 10/31/2013; 2/15/2014 - 3/13/2014;
Duration: 26 nights
Location: Australia
Price starting at: $13,495.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Train Treks
Meals: 68; 24 Breakfasts, 24 Lunches, 20 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Journeying by railway allows you to truly take in the vastness of Australia, the views out your window encompassing amazing natural beauty and fascinating human history. On an extraordinary four-week journey learn about the best this immense island continent has to offer.




Highlights

• Journey on Australia’s two iconic trains: the Indian Pacific across the Nullabor Plain and the Ghan from Darwin to Alice Springs.
• Encounter Kakadu National Park’s fascinating animals and stunning plant life.
• Attend a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven terrain and unavoidable stairs.




Date Specific Information

2-15-2014

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Sydney, 3 nights; flight to Perth, 3 nights; board Indian Pacific train, 2 nights; arrival Adelaide, 1 night; coach & Ferry to Kangaroo Island, 1 night; fly to Adelaide, 2 nights; flight to Darwin; coach to Kakadu National Park, 2 nights; coach to Darwin, 2 nights; board the Ghan train, 1 night; arrival Alice Springs, 2 nights; coach to Uluru / Ayers Rock, 1 night; flight to Cairns, 3 nights; flight to Sydney, 1 night; departure.



Overnight flight from the U.S.A.
1 night
Cross International Dateline
1 night
Arrival Sydney
3 nights

See Sydney through the eyes of a local. A Sydney Harbour cruise provides a unique perspective on the famous harbor’s development. Learn about Australian fauna at the Taronga Zoological Gardens. Get behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House and attend a performance on a separate evening.



Flight to Perth
3 nights
Board Indian Pacific train
2 nights

In Perth, set on the Swan River, enjoy a lecture on what makes Western Australia unique and learn why it is booming. Observe the flora and fauna of Rottnest Island and visit the Maritime Museum in Fremantle. On the Indian Pacific train, marvel at Nullarbor Plain, a single piece of limestone covering 77,000 square miles.



Arrival Adelaide
1 night
Coach & Ferry to Kangaroo Island
1 night
Fly to Adelaide
2 nights

Visit the charming and picturesque Kangaroo Island, meet the local fauna and discover why this is such an idyllic part of Australia. Explore Adelaide, a planned city of many verdant parks. Visit a vineyard and a cooperage in the renowned Barossa Valley. Learn why South Australia is renowned for its cuisine.



Flight to Darwin
Coach to Kakadu National Park
2 nights
Coach to Darwin
2 nights
Board the Ghan train
1 night

In Kakadu National Park, examine aboriginal rock art at a sacred site and spot wildlife including crocodiles on a wetlands cruise. In Darwin discover the effect of Australia's northernmost city being closer to numerous Asian capitals than it is to the Australian capital, Canberra. Take an excursion from the train on Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Ride The Ghan train through the spectacular Australian Outback.



Arrival Alice Springs
2 nights
Coach to Uluru / Ayers Rock
1 night

Stop at ANZAC Hill to reflect upon Australians who lost their lives in battle. An Aboriginal woman introduces you to “bush tucker” and prepares a dinner showing how these traditional ingredients are used in contemporary cuisine. At a BBQ in the Botanical Gardens gain an understanding of the stars in the southern sky. At Uluru, witness the massive sandstone formation’s fiery red glow at sunset.



Flight to Cairns
3 nights
Flight to Sydney
1 night
Departure

Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and observe a rainforest from above the canopy on the SkyRail Rainforest Cableway. View the Great Barrier Reef through a snorkeling mask or from a semisubmersible vehicle.




Australia

From expansive desert to the 1,616 mile Great Barrier Reef, the planet’s smallest continent is also one of the most diverse. Native Aboriginal culture dates back nearly 30,000 years, and with the arrival of Europeans colonists followed by a Gold Rush, Australia evolved into a true amalgam of ethnicities and cultures. Its cities, outbacks and beaches harbor tales of pirates and penal colonies, marine wonderlands and a modern, multi-national citizenry.
Accommodations
Sydney: Hotel on Darling Harbour. Perth: Modern hotel in West End. Indian Pacific train: Comfortable Gold Class cabins. Adelaide: Four-star hotel overlooking Parklands. Kangaroo Island: waterfront hotel; Kakadu National Park: Unique crocodile-shaped hotel. Darwin: Harborside hotel. Ghan train: Comfortable Gold Class cabins. Alice Springs: Comfortable hotel. Ayers Rock: Outback lodge-style hotel. Cairns: Resort with lagoon-style pool. Sydney: Hotel close to the airport for the final night.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Martin Ludgate
Martin Ludgate was a lecturer at Charles Darwin University in Alice Springs, where he lectured and managed the educational travel program. Now semi-retired (although still doing some lecturing and leading educational excursions), Martin has a keen interest in local history and culture as well as the landscapes, flora and fauna of the Northern Territory. “The great pleasure of enabling Road Scholar participants to bring alive their desire to experience a sense of Outback Australia, which they have heard so much about, makes my involvement so rewarding,” Martin says.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour
  Sydney, Australia 3 nights
   Hotel Ibis Perth
  Perth, Australia 3 nights
   Indian Pacific Train
  Train - "Indian Pacific", Australia 2 nights
   Grand Chifley Hotel
  Adelaide, Australia 1 night
   Aurora Ozone Hotel
  Kangaroo Island, Australia 1 night
   Grand Chifley Hotel
  Adelaide, Australia 2 nights
   Gagudju Crocodile Hotel
  Kakadu National Park, Australia 2 nights
   Mantra On The Esplanade Darwin
  Darwin, Australia 2 nights
   The Ghan
  Train - "The Ghan", Australia 1 night
   Alice Springs Resort
  Alice Springs, Australia 2 nights
   Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
  Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia 1 night
   Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
  Cairns, Australia 3 nights
   Mercure Sydney Airport
  Sydney, Australia 1 night
 Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour
Type: Hotel
  Description: Overlooking Darling Harbour, this hotel is within minutes walk to the heart of the city.
  Contact info: 17 Little Pier Street
Sydney NSW,  2000 Australia
phone: +61 -2-8217-4000
web: www.accorhotels.com.au
  Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, hairdryer, refrigerator and internet access.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a safety deposit box, gymnasium, indoor heated lap pool and foreign exchange facilities. Valet laundry service is available or a commercial laundry is located nearby.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: TBA in Preparatory Material The Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Program Provider direct by email.

 Hotel Ibis Perth
Type: Hotel
  Description: The hotel is ideally located opposite parklands and just five minutes stroll from the city centre.
  Contact info: 334 Murray Street
Perth WA,  6000 Australia
phone: +61 -8-9322-2844
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-1773-ibis-perth/index.shtml
  Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, television, refrigerator, hair dryer, iron/ironing board.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, guest laundry, gaming lounge, concierge, safety deposit box facility and a courtesy shuttle bus into the city.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Indian Pacific Train
Type: Train
  Contact info: (c/- Odyssey Travel Head Office
Northfields Ave, University of Wollongong NSW 2522 Aust)
Adelaide/Alice Springs/Darwin,   Australia
phone: +61 -2-4224-7030
web: www.trainways.com.au
  Room amenities: All cabins are airconditioned. Towels and a complimentary toiletry pack are provided for on-board use. Please note that rooms are not lockable and awareness is needed for security of valuables.
  Facility amenities: There is a lounge car and a dining carriage available.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Bathroom: Each twinette contains a shower, toilet and washbasin. Each roomette contains a washbasin only, with shower and toilet facilities being located at the end of each carriage.

 Grand Chifley Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Ideally located just a short walk from the centre of Adelaide and the southern parklands.
  Contact info: 208 South Terrace
Adelaide,   Australia
phone: +61 8 8223 2800
web: www.grandchifleyhotels.com.au/adelaide/grand-chifley-hotel-adelaide/
  Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee-making facilities, telephone, television, refrigerator, hair dryer and iron/ironing board.
  Facility amenities: Laundry, currency exchange, 24-hour reception.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Aurora Ozone Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Located in an unsurpassed seafront setting on the foreshore of Kingscote Harbour.
  Contact info: The Foreshore
Kingscote SA,  5223 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8553-2011
web: www.auroraresorts.com.au
  Room amenities: Room facilities include air conditioning, tea/coffee making, television, in-house movies, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include guest laundry, outdoor heated swimming pool, indoor sauna, gymnasium/exercise room.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Gagudju Crocodile Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: The hotel is a Northern Territory icon - constructed in the shape of a crocodile!
  Contact info: Flinders Street
Jabiru NT,  0886 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8979-2800
web: www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/jabgg/hoteldetail
  Room amenities: Room facilities include a television, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing boards and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, guest laundry, safety deposit box and foreign exchange facilities.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Mantra On The Esplanade Darwin
Type: Hotel
  Description: Overlooks Darwin Harbour to the Arafura Sea and the City Skyline, and is within easy walk to the central business district.
  Contact info: 88 The Esplanade
Darwin NT,  0800 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8943-4333
web: www.mantraresorts.com.au/resorts/
  Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, full kitchen and laundry facilities, iron/ironing board, television, pay movies, ISD/STD telephone, radio/alarm clock, wireless internet access and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include swimming pool, spa/hot tub/jacuzzi, laundry/dry cleaning service and business centre.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 The Ghan
Type: Train
  Contact info: (c/- Odyssey Travel Head Office
Northfields Ave, University of Wollongong NSW 2522 Aust)
Sydney/Adelaide/Perth,   Australia
phone: +61 -2-4224-7030
web: www.trainways.com.au
  Room amenities: All cabins are airconditioned. Towels and a complimentary toiletry pack are provided for on-board use. Please note that rooms are not lockable and awareness is needed for security of valuables.
  Facility amenities: There is a lounge car and a dining carriage available.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Bathroom: Each twinette contains a shower, toilet and washbasin. Each roomette contains a washbasin only, with shower and toilet facilities being located at the end of each carriage.

 Alice Springs Resort
Type: Hotel
  Description: Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, with its magnificent river red gums, the hotel is only a five minute walk from the town centre.
  Contact info: 34 Strott Terrace
Alice Springs NT,  0870 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8951-4545
web: www.chifleyhotels.com.au/component/hoteldetail/?tid=ASR
  Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, refrigerator, television, in-house movies, telephone, radio, internest access, iron/ironing board hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, guest laundry, dry cleaning service, internet kiosk, foreign currency exchange and safety deposit box facility.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
Type: Hotel
  Description: The hotel is located as a part of the Ayers Rock Resort.
  Contact info: Yulara Drive
Yulara NT,  0872 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8957-7605
web: www.voyages.com.au
  Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee facilities, telephone, television, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hair dryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a guest laundry, swimming pool and safety deposit box facility.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Type: Hotel
  Description: Located within walking distance from the waterfront esplanade and the city centre.
  Contact info: 122 Lake Street
Cairns QLD,  4870 Australia
phone: +61 -7-4080-1888
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-0534-novotel-cairns-oasis-resort/index.shtml
  Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, in-room safe and internet connection.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include lagoon-style pool with a sand-beach entrance, gymnasium, valet laundry/dry cleaning and guest laundry.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Mercure Sydney Airport
Type: Hotel
  Description: Situated next to riverfront parklands and overlooking an 18 hole golf course, the hotel is only 2kms from Sydney’s International and Domestic Airports but is away from the direct flight path.
  Contact info: 20 Levey Street
Wolli Creek
Sydney NSW,  2205 Australia
phone: +61 -2-9518-2000
web: www.mercuresydneyairport.com.au
  Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, refrigerator, television, pay-to-view movies, telephone, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a laundry/valet service, computer centre, outdoor swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis courts and squash courts.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: TBA in Preparatory Material The Program Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Provider direct by email.


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Sydney, Australia You will be staying at Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour that night.
  End of Program:
Sydney, Australia You will be staying at Mercure Sydney Airport the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Passport & Visa required for Australia. All US passport holders travelling to Australia must obtain an electronic visa prior to entering the country. You will not receive a visa stamp inside your passport, nor will you receive anything in writing. Instead you will be registered with the Australian Government as valid to enter/exit Australia. Road Scholar Travel Services are able to assist you with this process free of charge and will send you an ETA form in your welcome package.
  Parking availability:
n/a
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Sydney
  Nearest airport:  Sydney International and Domestic Airports
  Transportation to site: Coach transfers are provided for the group at the beginning of the program, from the arrival airport to their accommodation. POP participants can join this transfer free of charge provided they are present when the transfer departs. Alternatively they can make their own arrangements and use the airport shuttle bus or taxi services at their own expense.
  From End of Program
  Location: Sydney
  Transportation from site: Coach transfers are provided for the group at the conclusion of the program, from their accommodation to the departure airport. POP participants can join this transfer free of charge provided they are present when the transfer departs. Alternatively they can make their own arrangements and use the airport shuttle bus or taxi services at their own expense.
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Departure
(Saturday, February 16)
   
 Depart From: Depart USA on International flight.

Day 2: In Flight
(Sunday, February 17)
   
 In Transit: Cross International Dateline.

Day 3: Group Arrival / City & Suburbs Orientation / Program Overview / Walking Exploration / Welcome and Introductions
(Monday, February 18)
   
 Arrive To: Excursion: Orientation to City and Eastern Suburbs. Lecture: Program Overview.
 Lunch: In the hotel.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Walking Exploration of City. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: EnrichActivity: Introductions and Getting To Know You.
   
Accommodations: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Introduction to Australia / Harbour Cruise / Colonial History / Enjoy a guided exploration of the world-famous Sydney Opera House / In the evening, delight in an Opera, Music or Theatre Performance at the Sydney Opera House
(Tuesday, February 19)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Lecture: Introduction to Australia - Its Discovery and Settlement. Field Trip: Sydney Harbour Cruise - How the Harbour Evolved.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Sydney's Colonial Past - including Macquarie Street and The Rocks area. Field Trip: Behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: EnrichActivity: This evening we enjoy a performance at the Sydney Opera House - one of the world's great pieces of architectural design. Definitely something to tell the folks back home about!
   
Accommodations: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Sydney's renowned Taronga Zoological Gardens overlooking Sydney Harbour where we are introduced to Australian fauna in the morning / Afternoon & evening free to explore Sydney at leisure
(Wednesday, February 20)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Taronga Zoological Gardens - Fauna of Australia.
 Lunch: At Taronga Zoological Gardens
 Afternoon: At leisure.
 Dinner: Own arrangements.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: The Australian Rail System / Flight to Perth / Orientation to Perth from picturesque Kings Park & Botanical Gardens / History & Growth of Western Australia
(Thursday, February 21)
   
 Breakfast: At accommodation.
 Morning: Lecture: An Introduction to the Australian Rail System. Coach to Sydney Airport. Flight to Perth
 Lunch: On board Sydney to Perth flight..
 Afternoon: Course Overview en route to Kings Park. Excursion: Orientation to City and Walk in Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens. Lecture: History and Growth of Western Australia - Minerals and Agriculture.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Ibis Perth
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ferry to Rottnest Island to explore its history, beauty & unique marsupial fauna / Return to Fremantle / Beach visit
(Friday, February 22)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Ferry to Rottnest Island - guided exploration to learn the natural history of the island.
 Lunch: Lunch in cafe on Rottnest Island.
 Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Rottnest Island continued - meet the island's unique marsupial, the Quokka. Ferry return to Fremantle. Excursion: Dip your toes in the Indian Ocean at a local beach.
 Dinner: At local pub restaurant in Perth.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Ibis Perth
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Western Australian Maritime Museum / Fremantle guided walk / An afternoon at leisure to explore Perth and/or Fremantle
(Saturday, February 23)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Western Australian Maritime Museum - exhibitions tell the stories of human endeavour that bring to life our maritime past. Excursion: Walking exploration of Fremantle.
 Lunch: Seafood buffet lunch at a Fremantle restaurant.
 Afternoon: Free afternoon. Participants will be given a train pass to make their own way back to Perth. Participants can choose whether to explore Fremantle, Perth or places in between.
 Dinner: At own arrangements.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Ibis Perth
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: The historic Swan Bells / Board the famous "Indian Pacific" train bound for Adelaide
(Sunday, February 24)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: The Bell Tower - Learn about the history of this historic Ring of Bells and the techniques required to make them ring. Coach to Perth Railway Station to board the Indian Pacific.
 Lunch: On board train.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Life aboard the train.
 Dinner: On board Train.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Indian Pacific Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: "Indian Pacific" train across the Nullarbor
(Monday, February 25)
   
 Breakfast: On board Train.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Observe the Landscape across the Nullarbor Plain.
 Lunch: On board Train
 Afternoon: Continue Field Trip/Class: Observe the Landscape across the Nullarbor Plain.
 Dinner: On board Train.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Indian Pacific Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Central Markets / Adelaide - the City of Churches / Botanic Gardens / Animal Wildlife Sanctuary
(Tuesday, February 26)
   
 Breakfast: On board train.
 Morning: Field Trip: Adelaide Central Markets - a melting pot of multi-national food and cultures. Excursion: Orientation to Adelaide, its layout & distinctive architecture.
 Lunch: At the Botanic Gardens restaurant.
 Afternoon: Excursion: Guided walk through the Botanic Gardens.
 Dinner: At Animal Wildlife Sanctuary
 Evening: Field Trip: Cleland Animal Wildlife Sanctuary - guided tour and time to wander amongst the kangaroos, wallabies and emus.
   
Accommodations: Grand Chifley Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Coach & Ferry to Kangaroo Island / Australian Sea Lion Colony / Kangaroo Island natural cottage industries / An evening walk to find the local penguin population
(Wednesday, February 27)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Coach & ferry to Kangaroo Island. Lecture: Australian Sea Lions. Field Trip/Class: Up close and very personal with the local population of the Australian Sea Lion Colony at Seal Bay. Little Sahara Geological Monument.
 Lunch: At Vivonne Bay Outdoor Education Centre.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Explore some of Kangaroo Island's natural cottage Industries such as Sheep Milking, Eucalyptus Distillery, Ligurian Honey Bee Farm.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: Field Trip: A guided walk to find some of the local population of fairy penguins.
   
Accommodations: Aurora Ozone Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Kangaroo Island's natural beauty - the Flinders Chase National Park / Fly to Adelaide
(Thursday, February 28)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Morning: Field Trip/Class: Flinders Chase National Park.
 Lunch: Picnic Lunch at Flinders Chase National Park.
 Afternoon: Continue Field Trip/Class: Flinders Chase National Park - The Remarkable Rocks. Fly to Adelaide.
 Dinner: At accommodation.
 Evening: At leisure
   
Accommodations: Grand Chifley Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Australian Constitution / Eden and Barossa Valleys / Cooperage and Wine History Museum / Menglers Hill Lookout
(Friday, March 1)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip: Eden and Barossa Valleys - Exploring the History of German Settlement and Traditions. Field Trip/Class: Walk through a local vineyard and talk with the Winemaker.
 Lunch: At local Winery.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Tour through Seppeltsfield, Tanunda and Bethany. Field Trip/Class: Yalumba Winery - Guided tour of Cooperage and Wine History Museum. Field Trip: Menglers Hill Lookout - to view Barossa Valley.
 Dinner: At a local restaurant.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Grand Chifley Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Fly to Darwin / Coach to Kakadu National Park / Course Overview
(Saturday, March 2)
   
 Breakfast: At accommodation.
 Morning: Coach to Adelaide Domestic Airport for flight to Darwin.
 Lunch: At local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Coach to Kakadu National Park - Course Overview and "Window on the Wetlands" en route to accommodation.
 Dinner: At accommodation.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Gagudju Crocodile Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Introduction to Kakadu National Park and Aboriginal Heritage / Kakadu National Park Visitors' Centre - World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park / Wildlife and Crocodile spotting on the Yellow Waters flood plains.
(Sunday, March 3)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Lecture: Introduction to Kakadu National Park and Aboriginal Heritage of Arnhem Land. Field Trip/Class: Kakadu National Park Visitors' Centre - World Heritage Listed.
 Lunch: At local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Wildlife and Crocodile spotting on the Yellow Waters flood plains.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Gagudju Crocodile Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Nourlangie Rock - Aboriginal sacred sites & rock art / Coach to Darwin / Orientation to Darwin
(Monday, March 4)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Aboriginal Sacred Sites and Rock Art.
 Lunch: At accommodation.
 Afternoon: Coach transfer to Darwin; orientation to city.
 Dinner: At local waterfront restaurant on Stokes Hill Wharf.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Mantra On The Esplanade Darwin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Coach to Darwin / Museum of Northern Territory
(Tuesday, March 5)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Lecture: Darwin's relationship with Melanesia & South-East Asia. Field Trip/Class: Guided tour of the Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Defence of Darwin Experience – Darwin’s role in WWII. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.
 Dinner: At own arrangements.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Mantra On The Esplanade Darwin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 19: Board "The Ghan" Train / Katherine Gorge Cruise / Continue "The Ghan" Train
(Wednesday, March 6)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Coach to Darwin Railway Station to board "The Ghan" train for overnight journey to Alice Springs.
 Lunch: On board Train.
 Afternoon: Train stop in Katherine. Field Trip/Class: Nitmiluk National Park - Cruise in Katherine Gorge. Re-board "The Ghan" Train to continue journey to Alice Springs.
 Dinner: On board Train.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: The Ghan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Arrive Alice Springs / City Orientation / School of the Air - Teaching children of the Outback / Aboriginal Culture, Art and Heritage / Outback Yarns & Ballads / The Stars of the Southern Sky
(Thursday, March 7)
   
 Breakfast: On board Train.
 Morning: Disembark "The Ghan" Train. Excursion: City Orientation, via ANZAC Hill. Field Trip/Class: School of the Air - providing education to students in isolated communities.
 Lunch: In the hotel.
 Afternoon: Lecture: Aboriginal Culture, Art and Heritage. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.
 Dinner: BBQ dinner at Olive Pink Botanical Gardens
 Evening: Performance: Outback Ballads & Yarns - stories and songs of life in Australia's Red Centre. Lecture: Stars of the Southern Hemisphere - look for the Southern Cross and other southern constellations in the clear air of Australia's Red Centre, free of the lights of the big city.
   
Accommodations: Alice Springs Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: The stunning Outback landscape - Alice Springs Desert Park & the Western MacDonnell Ranges / The Royal Flying Doctor Service / Aboriginal Bush Foods - traditional foods & their contemporary usage.
(Friday, March 8)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Alice Springs Desert Park - Desert Landscapes, Flora and Fauna.
 Lunch: At Alice Springs Desert Park.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Western MacDonnell Ranges & Simpson's Gap - unique desert landforms. Field Trip/Class: The Royal Flying Doctor Service - learn how medical services are dispensed across Australia's vast Red Centre. Lecture at local restaurant/caterer: Aboriginal Bush Foods - Traditional & Contemporary
 Dinner: At local restaurant - traditional aboriginal foods utilised in contemporary cuisine.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Alice Springs Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22: Coach to Uluru / Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre / Uluru/Sunset
(Saturday, March 9)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Coach to Uluru (Ayers Rock) - visiting a Camel Farm en route.
 Lunch: At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Guided tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre. Field Trip: Guided tour around the base of Uluru (Ayers Rock). EnrichActivity: Sunset over Uluru.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 23: Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) / Fly to Cairns / City Orientation / Course Overview
(Sunday, March 10)
   
 Breakfast: At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre
 Morning: Field Trip: Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) - Viewing platform and Olga Gorge walk.
 Lunch: At Cafe at Ayers Rock Resort.
 Afternoon: Coach to Ayers Rock Domestic Airport for flight to Cairns. Excursion: Orientation to City en route to accommodation.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: Course Overview. Lecture: The Great Barrier Reef - the largest natural feature on Earth.
   
Accommodations: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 24: Cruise the Great Barrier Reef
(Monday, March 11)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Field Trip/Class: Full day cruise on Great Barrier Reef - including snorkelling, glass-bottom boat & semi-submersible.
 Lunch: On board Catamaran.
 Afternoon: Continue Field Trip/Class: Great Barrier Reef Cruise.
 Dinner: Own arrangements.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 25: Wet Tropical Rainforests / Kuranda Scenic Railway Train / Butterfly Sanctuary / SkyRail Rainforest Cableway
(Tuesday, March 12)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Lecture: Wet Tropical Rainforests of North Queensland. Field Trip: Kuranda Scenic Railway Train to Kuranda. Excursion: Butterfly Sanctuary - home to 1500 tropical butterflies.
 Lunch: At local restaurant in Kuranda.
 Afternoon: Part of afternoon at leisure. Field Trip: SkyRail Rainforest Cableway - over the treetops and the edge of the Atherton Tablelands escarpment.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at accommodation.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 26: Rainforest Habitat Centre / Flight to Sydney
(Wednesday, March 13)
   
 Breakfast: Coach to Rainforest Habitat Centre for "Breakfast with the Birds".
 Morning: Field Trip: Guided walk through Rainforest Habitat Centre to experience the Fauna of the Rainforest and the Wetland Aviaries.
 Lunch: At local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Free time followed by transfer to airport for flight to Sydney.
 Dinner: Aboard flight to Sydney.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Mercure Sydney Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 27: Group Departure
(Thursday, March 14)
   
 Depart From: Coach to Sydney International Airport for flight to Los Angeles.
 Breakfast: At accommodation.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Aboriginal Art


Author: Wally Caruana


Description: Aboriginal art has now taken its place in the collections of the great museums and galleries. This is the first concise survey of the full range of the work of Australia's indigenous artists from all parts of the continent.



Australia: The East, Travellers’ Wildlife Guides


Author: Les Beletsky


Description: A wonderfully comprehensive guide to the plant and animal life of eastern Australia. This colorful book features illustrations of 650 commonly encountered fish, reptiles, amphibians, mammals and birds and special sections on the Great Barrier Reef and eastern Australian and Tasmanian wildlife parks and reserves.



Cultural Atlas of Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific


Author: Richard Nile & Christian Clerk


Description: This handsome volume weaves together history, geography, archaeology, and the arts, covering the Australasian region from prehistory up to the founding of the modern nations. Features hundreds of illustrations.



Fodor's Exploring Australia


Author: Michael Ivory


Description: This excellent up-to-date guide will take you Down Under with ease and style. Includes maps, illustrations and unusual information on features of cultural, historical and natural interest.



In A Sunburned Country


Author: Bill Bryson


Description: Bill revels in Australia's eccentric characters, dangerous flora and fauna, and other oddities. As has become his custom, he effortlessly imparts much fact-filled history in this wildly funny book. Included at the end is a short bibliography.



Songlines


Author: Bruce Chatwin


Description: In this much celebrated travelogue, Chatwin combines straightforward reporting, history, dreamtime stories and a heady mix of quotations from his notebooks. He transforms a journey through the outback into an exhilarating, semi-fictional meditation on our place in the world.



Travellers’ Tales Australia: True Stories of Life Down Under


Author: Larry Habegger & Amy G. Carlson


Description: An excellent introduction to the people, culture and traditions of Australia as seen through the eyes of mostly contemporary writers, including Pico Iyer, Paul Theroux, Bruce Chatwin, and D.H. Lawrence. Organized thematically, it includes articles and excerpts on the Great Barrier Reef, the outback, the Nullarbor Plateau and Bondi Beach.





You can't find a better value than Road Scholar.


As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing all-inclusive educational programs at great value. From lectures to gratuities to field trips to accommodations - the tuition you pay up front is all that you pay.



Specifically, this program includes:

Plus these special experiences...

View the Daily Schedule to see more

And included with all Road Scholar programs:


© Road Scholar 2013 | Call toll-free: 1-800-454-5768