Australia Tour Packages

Given the distances, most trips focus on a region or two: Sydney and the east coast with the Great Barrier Reef, the Red Centre around Uluru, Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road, or the wildlife and wine of the south and west.

A few practical notes make any Australia trip smoother. The currency is the Australian dollar (AUD), and English. Domestic flights are essential given the distances, with self-drive ideal for coastal routes like the Great Ocean Road. Pack for the season and carry a little local cash for markets, tips and small vendors.

Australia is both a country and a continent, the sixth-largest nation on earth, ringed by beaches and reefs with a vast, arid Outback interior. Most of its population clusters in cities along the temperate south-eastern and eastern coasts.

Australia's size means many climates, with seasons reversed from the northern hemisphere — the tropical north is best in the dry winter, while the southern cities shine in summer.

The best time to visit depends on the region. For Sydney, Melbourne and the south, September to November and March to May are ideal. The Great Barrier Reef and tropical north are best in the dry season (May to October). Uluru and the Outback are most comfortable in the cooler months of April to September.

Australia is a relaxed, multicultural and outdoorsy society, home to the world's oldest continuous living culture in its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Beach life, sport, coffee culture and a laid-back friendliness define the modern national character.

Given the distances, most trips focus on a region or two: Sydney and the east coast with the Great Barrier Reef, the Red Centre around Uluru, Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road, or the wildlife and wine of the south and west.

Whether you are after culture, scenery, food or simply time to relax, Australia rewards travellers who give it a little time. Our packages combine the signature sights with quieter corners most visitors miss.

Some of the best things to do in Australia:

• Climb or cruise Sydney Harbour
• Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef
• Watch sunset over Uluru
• Drive the Great Ocean Road
• Meet kangaroos and koalas in the wild
• Explore Melbourne's food and coffee scene

The best time to visit depends on the region. For Sydney, Melbourne and the south, September to November and March to May are ideal. The Great Barrier Reef and tropical north are best in the dry season (May to October). Uluru and the Outback are most comfortable in the cooler months of April to September.

Because the seasons shape the experience so much, tell us when you can travel and we will tell you honestly what Australia will be like on those dates — and shape the route accordingly.

The places most worth your time in Australia:

• Sydney — the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and beaches
• Great Barrier Reef — the world's largest coral reef system
• Uluru — the sacred monolith at the Red Centre
• Great Ocean Road — dramatic coastline and the Twelve Apostles
• Melbourne — laneways, coffee and culture
• Tasmania & Kangaroo Island — wildlife and wilderness

Modern Australian food is fresh, multicultural and produce-driven, from superb seafood and barbecues to a celebrated cafe and wine culture.

Dishes to seek out: fresh seafood, meat pies, barbecue, bush-tucker-inspired dishes, flat white coffee, world-class wine. On our tours we are happy to steer you toward the best local food and to cater for any dietary needs — just let us know in advance.

From Sydney's spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks and Vivid light festival to Melbourne's sporting events and countless food-and-wine festivals, Australia's calendar is packed year-round.

Most visitors need a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA/eVisitor) arranged online before travel. Visa rules vary by nationality and change from time to time, so always confirm the current requirement for your own passport before booking. If you travel with us, we will guide you through exactly what you need.

A little courtesy goes a long way in Australia. Always swim between the red-and-yellow flags, apply strong sun protection, carry water in the Outback, and treat Aboriginal sacred sites such as Uluru with respect.

Do dress respectfully at religious and cultural sites, ask before photographing people, carry small change for tips and markets, and stay hydrated. Don't drink tap water unless it is confirmed safe, flash valuables in crowded areas, or rush — the best trips here are unhurried ones.