Compare The “Other" Sydney, Rock, and Reef by EverGreen Escapes

Day 1: Arrival in Darwin

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Rydges Darwin Airport Hotel– Superior Queen

The small group will arrive in Darwin where private transfers to Rydges Darwin Airport Hotel await.  Meet the rest of the group for a welcome dinner, then spend the night adjusting and relaxing as your adventure begins tomorrow.

Day 2: El Questro Wilderness Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation:Station Bungalow

Start your morning with a flight to Kununura and transfer to El Questro Wilderness Park to begin your adventure.  El Questro Wilderness Park is considered to be one of the world’s most unique holiday destinations. A million acres in size, El Questro was developed in 1991 to provide a truly Australian holiday destination. El Questro is located on the eastern perimeter of the Kimberley region, one of the world’s last unspoilt frontiers: rugged ranges, broad tidal flats, rainforest pockets, gorges and waterfalls. Animal, bird and fish life congregate on the rivers and waterholes, of which El Questro boasts four major river systems – from fresh water springs to the lazy saltwater estuaries in the northern part of the property. As much or as little as you like, El Questro has activities for the ecotourist, agritourist and sports adventurer alike; whether it’s photographing butterflies or fishing for barramundi. Evening Dinner (2 Course Set Menu or Gourmet BBQ Dinner)

Day 3: Bungle Bungle 2 hour scenic flight

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Station Bungalow

The Bungle Bungle’s flight is one of Australia’s natural wonders, the World Heritage Listed Bungle Bungle Range is a unique sandstone formation dating back 350 million years. This two hour aeroplane flight from El Questro’s airstrip takes you first over Lake Argyle and the Carboyd Range.  Before entering the 240,000 ha Purnululu National Park, the Bungle Bungle massif rises 300m out of the desert to meet you. For the next 20 minutes you will discover the awe inspiring striped bee hive domes and gorges of this 350 million year old icon. Orbitting the range take a photo or two of the Gibb Face. See the famous Cathedral Gorge and Piccaninny Gorge, the longest and deepest in the massif. On the return journey to El Questro, pass over the Argyle Diamond Mine, the largest producer of pink and coloured diamonds in the world. A once in a life time experience. Evening Dinner (2 Course Set Menu or Gourmet BBQ Dinner)

Day 4: Kimberley – El Questro Wilderness Park

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Station Bungalow

El Questro Full Day Tour

This tour offers some of the highlights of the Kimberley and gives an informative overview of El Questro. The tour starts with a guided hike to the halfway pool of El Questro Gorge, a soak in Zebedee Springs, ‘Beef or Barra’ lunch at The Steakhouse followed by an afternoon Chamberlain Gorge Cruise. Departs The Station Store or Emma Gorge Resort. Evening Dinner (2 Course Set Menu or Gourmet BBQ Dinner)

Day 5: Kimberley – El Questro Wilderness Park

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Station Bungalow

Saddleback Ridge Sunset Tour OR Buddy’s Point Sunset Tour

Saddleback Ridge

Located just behind the Station lies one of the most magnificent lookouts El Questro has to offer. The 2-hour sunset tour to Saddleback Ridge offers an exciting 4WD trip as the track to the summit is steep and winding. Under the guide of an experienced tour leader, the journey ends with stunning 360-degree views of your surroundings at sunset and a delicious cheese platter and sparkling wine to enjoy.

Buddy’s Point

This 2-hour guided tour is exclusive to guests who book the Sunset Tour or a private lookout booking. Buddy’s Point was named to honour El Questro legend Buddy Tyson. A former rodeo champion, cattle drover and tour guide at El Questro, Buddy was known for his knack for storytelling. Offering stunning 360-degree views of the entire property, the tour begins with a guided 4WD adventure through classic Kimberley landscapes and ends with a view into the heart of Chamberlain Gorge as you enjoy a complimentary wine and cheese platter.

Day 6: El Questro to Margaret River

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Abbey Beach Resort

Private air conditioned transport to and from airports for flight to Perth for 3 days and 2 nights in the Margaret River Region. Travel from Perth to the Margaret River wine region via Yallingup Shearing Shed. Visit the chocolate and cheese factories (time permitting) then Busselton.

Originally a chilled out surfie town, Margaret River has evolved into one of Australia’s premier vacation destinations with pristine natural wonders, world class wineries, fine restaurants and spectacular beaches. With a warm Mediterranean climate, the Margaret River region is renowned for its local produce, vineyards and wineries. Be sure to taste some of the local treats including berries, olive oils, fudge and preserves. While wine production only started in the late sixties, in that short time the region has already produced an array of internationally acclaimed wines. With more than 60 wineries to choose from producing Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz you will not be stuck for choice. Once you have had your fill of food and wine, head outside and explore the surrounding area. Explore networks of underground caves, watch the locals take on the awe-inspiring waves at Surfers Point, go rock climbing or abseiling, canoeing or whale watching or just sit back and let yourself relax surrounded by nature, beautiful vineyards and glorious coastline.

Day 7: Margaret River to Pemberton region

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Darby Park Serviced Residences

Enjoy free time in the Township of Margaret River before heading to Surfers Point Lookout. Tour Mammoth Cave, then through Boranup Forest to visit Augusta and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Enjoy wine tasting this afternoon.

Day 8: Margaret River to Exmouth

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: : Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth

Early morning departure to return to Perth for flight to Learmonth. Coach transfer Learmonth Airport to Exmouth.

Day 9: Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark Discovery, Exmouth

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth

The Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark Discovery cruise begins with a courtesy bus transfer from your accommodation around Exmouth to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp on the west side of Northwest Cape where you meet your team and board the company vessel, “Keshi-Mer”. This fast, modern, well equipped 18m vessel features comfortable cushioned seating, a large shaded deck area, broad timber swim platform, clear side curtains on the main deck that allow great viewing whilst protecting you from the wind and spray, a large bow area for marine animal viewing, full galley, toilet and fresh water rinse shower, making it the perfect vessel to experience the magic of the Ningaloo Reef.

An Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark Discovery cruise also features an exclusive spotter aircraft to search the reef for Whale Sharks. One plane is dedicated solely to maximize your swimming time with the Whale Sharks. The investment of having the plane spot exclusively for Ocean Eco Adventures 1 boat allows the boat to move freely and venture to its own areas and find Whale Sharks away from other vessels. A focus on allowing as much time in the water snorkeling with the Whale Sharks as possible is a feature of an Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark cruise.

A qualified snorkel guide accompanies each group, whilst a company videographer takes footage of the Whale Shark swim and other marine life sited throughout the day. This DVD is then given as a gift to you. During the day an opportunity to snorkel in the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Marine Park is offered at coral sites, abundant with tropical fish life. You will also search for Turtles, Dolphins, Dugong, Rays, Sea Birds and other marine life throughout the day.

The excitement doesn’t stop with the marine viewing and interaction, a very talked about feature on all Ocean Eco Adventures cruises is the delicious gourmet food featuring fresh Western Australian produce. A variety of menu choices are on offer throughout the day with all dietary requirements catered for (with notice).

Day 10: Day at Leisure

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth

EXMOUTH BEACHES If it’s pristine beaches you’re after, you have come to the right place! The Exmouth coastline offers visitors an endless array of stunning, unspoilt, deserted beaches which are perfect for snorkelling, sunbathing, water sports, fishing, or simply relaxing and soaking in the superb scenery.

Town Beach: The closest beach to Exmouth is Town Beach. Located only 1km from the centre of town, this beach is ideal for morning walks, beachcombing and safe, protected swimming. 4WD access tracks that lead onto the beach can be found at the ends of both Warne Street and Willersdorf Road. This beach is tidal, so swimming is best at high tide.

Bundegi Beach: Located 12km north of Exmouth, Bundegi Beach marks the start of the Ningaloo Marine Park and is a great beach for swimming, kayaking and fishing. There is also a boat launching facility at the southern end of the Bundegi Beach.

Lighthouse Bay: Several short tracks along Mildura Wreck Road into Lighthouse Bay provide access to a variety of beaches suitable for fishing, surfing, swimming and sunbathing. At the end of the road you will discover the wreck of the cattle transport vessel, SS Mildura. which can be easily viewed from the beach. The Mildura was wrecked in 1907, with the loss of no human lives, although most of the cattle on board did not survive the disaster. The timbers and irons of the vessel were salvaged and used in renovations for Yardie Homestead, and the hull was later used for bombing practice by allied planes during world War II.

Jurabi Coastal Reserve: The access tracks along the Yardie Creek Road offer a variety of beaches to choose from. These beaches are suitable for fishing, swimming and viewing nesting turtles during season (approximately November to February). On a low tide, close inspection of the rock pools hold many hidden delights such as sea urchins, anemones, starfish and octopus.

Mauritius Beach: If an all over tan is what youre after then this is the beach for you. Declared a ‘clothing optional’ beach in 1999, Mauritius Beach is located just past the Vlamingh Head lighthouse 21km from Exmouth. Beaches of the Cape Range National Park: The beaches south of Tantabiddi lie within the Cape Range National Park and form the coastline of the Ningaloo Marine Park. These spectacular beaches – some of the best in WA are great for relaxing, swimming or snorkelling. See Snorkelling the Ningaloo Reef for more details.

Turquoise Bay: Located within the Cape Range National Park, 63kms from Exmouth, Turquoise Bay deserves special mention amongst the many stunning beaches of this coastline. Turquoise Bay was recently ranked in the world’s top 20 beaches by users of leading travel review website,TripAdvisor.com. The unique combination of white, sandy beaches with fantastic coral snorkelling only metres from the shoreline in calm, crystal clear water makes Turquoise Bay a must see. 

HIKES & LOOKOUTS The Cape Range National Park features several hike trails and lookouts offering spectacular views over the range, canyons, Ningaloo Reef and Exmouth Gulf. Caution should be taken when bushwalking in the Cape Range National Park as the canyon walls walls are steep and can be dangerous due to loose surfaces. Don’t go on your own – always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Cave areas are unsafe due to oxygen deficiency. For your own safety please remain on existing walking trails. Avoid walking in the middle of the day and always carry water as extreme heat is common and there is almost no surface water in the Cape Range.

Vlamingh Head The lookout at the base of Vlamingh Head lighthouse offers one of the best ocean views on the Ningaloo coast. A full panorama of the tip of North West Cape can be enjoyed here, which includes the Harold E Holt Communications Station VLF towers, Muiron Islands, offshore oil rigs, Ningaloo Reef and the township of Exmouth. Vlamingh Head is also a favorite place for visitors to watch the sun set over the sea or spot humpback whales during their annual migration from June to November.

Mandu Mandu Gorge Mandu Mandu Gorge has a 3km walking trail which allows access into this dry gorge. The trail starts at the end of the Mandu Mandu track and follows the northern ridge of the gorge, offering stunning panoramic views of the gorge and the Ningaloo Reef. The trail leads down into the creek bed from where you follow the base of the gorge back to the car park. Please be aware this is a class 4 trail that is often rough and requires walkers to possess a moderate to high level of fitness.

Yardie Nature Trail & Yardie Creek Gorge Trail The Yardie Nature Trail/Yardie Creek Gorge Trail is a 2km, two part trail that starts with a 1.25km, class 2 trail that requires no particular level of fitness. The Yardie Nature Trail follows a gentle, well defined path that winds along the edge of Yardie Creek, offering views of Yardie Creek and the Ningaloo Reef. At the end of the Yardie Nature Trail, the 750m Yardie Gorge Trail begins. This is a class 4 trail that is often rough and requires walkers to possess a moderate to high level of fitness. The Yardie Gorge Trail takes walkers high above Yardie Creek with views over the gorge and Ningaloo Reef.

Charles Knife Canyon Charles Knife Canyon is accessed via Charles Knife Road, 21km south of Exmouth off Minilya-Exmouth Road. The mostly gravel road follows the razor-backed ridges of the range and provides breathtaking downward views into the stark, multicoloured gorges. There are several lookout points that provide fantastic photo opportunities and a marked walking trail from Thomas Carter Lookout.

Badjirrajirra Loop Trail Badjirrajirra Loop Trail begins at the Thomas Carter Lookout, off Charles Knife Road. This is an 8km, class 4 trail that is often rough and requires walkers to possess a moderate to high level of fitness. A moderately difficult loop trail traversing the top of the Cape Range, the Badjirrajirra Trail winds its way through rocky gullies, small gorges and open spinifex bushland. The walk also offers views of Shothole Canyon and Exmouth Gulf.

Day 11: Exmouth to Sydney

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Old Sydney Holiday Inn

Coach transfer Exmouth to Learmonth Airport, flight to Sydney.  Transfer Includes Meet & Greet at Airport.

Sydney doesn’t exactly hide its charms!  Endowed with a sparkling harbor, dazzling beaches and a sunny, Mediterranean climate, its setting alone has guaranteed Sydney a place among the most glamorous cities in the world. There are plenty of ways to explore the harbor – on ferries, cruise vessels, high-speed jet-boats or sea kayaks.  Visit the sandstone warehouses and Victorian Merchant’s houses in the Rocks area, which have been transformed into a cosmopolitan gateway to the city, complete with art galleries, boutiques, cafes, a weekend market, and some of the best views on earth. Explore the Sydney Aquarium, the Chinese Museum, and the Taronga Zoo! Sydney offers a dynamic, exciting mix of tours, attractions and events that allow visitors to discover this welcoming, free-spirited city.

Day 12: Ride the Indian Pacific to Broken Hill

Meals: Dinner

Transfer from Hotel to Train Station The Indian Pacific “Sydney to Broken Hill – Point to Point -1 sector”

Gold Service fares include: Off train excursions at major stops; standard wines, beers, base spirits and soft drinks; breakfast, lunch and dinner from the new regional based menu; flexible dining options; increased luggage allowance of two pieces at 25kgs/55lbs each.

Gold Service Dining: – All meals are included in Gold Service and are served in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car. – Superb three course meals are served by friendly waiters, on elegant china, accompanied by fine glassware and cutlery. – A selection of standard wines and beverages are included. – Limited special dietary light meals are available on request (please advise at time of booking). – Breakfast meals include a choice of cooked or continental, lunch is a two course meal with various choices, and dinner is a three course meal with a number of dinner options.

Gold Service Twin Cabin: – Well-appointed day and overnight Cabin accommodation. – Twin Cabins feature a 3 seater lounge converting to upper and lower sleeping berths plus ensuite facilities with toilet, washbasin and shower. – The cabins are fully serviced by carriage attendants with fresh sheets, pillows and doonas. – Cabins feature 3 pin/ 240 volt power point, wardrobe, full length mirror, reading light and foldaway table. – Complimentary toiletry bags and onboard magazine provided in all Gold Service cabins.

Lounge: The relaxed setting of the Outback Explorer Lounge offers a place to socialize and meet fellow travelers from all corners of the world or sit back and enjoy the passing parade of Australian landscapes. The Lounge has a licensed bar and is the ideal place to gather for a drink before dinner or for a game of cards and a nightcap with new friends.

Departs Sydney at 3pm, arrives Broken Hill at 6am + 1 day

Day 13: Broken Hill City Sights, Heritage & Ghost Tours

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Broken Hill

Transfer Rail Station to Hotel, then embark on two tours in one, including lunch.

Morning City Sights and Heritage Tour: This tour covers 50kms of our unique city. Listen as you tour guide tells you of the impact the enormous wealth of the Silver City had on the development of our great country. This city was founded from the discovery of the richest ore body in the Southern Hemisphere. You will visit the Line of Lode Miners Memorial and Visitors Centre, this magnificent new attraction is located at the highest point of the Line of Lode overlooking the city. Hear of the origins of BHP and their eventual departure from the Silver City. See the vast differences from the early miners cottages to the modern homes of today. Your guide will show you the wonderful heritage buildings, churches and hotels. Take note of our green parklands and the magnificent fully grassed Broken Hill Golf Course, something that was just a dream to the early pioneers in the semi arid climate.

Afernoon Silverton Ghost Tour:  Situated approximately 28kms from Broken Hill. Silverton, Umberumberka Reservoir and the Mundi Mundi Plains have many natural and historical facts that are the best described to you at the point of contact by your experienced guide.

The Mundi Mundi Plains lookout has a breathtaking view that has many unanswered questions that the visitor may wish to have answered then and there. On our tour this is possible. On our tour you will see some of the characters that call Silverton home for a short time: Mel Gibson, Bryan Brown, Helen Morse just to name a few, this is all possible at the infamous Silverton Hotel. An opportunity to see craft centres, art galleries and museums, on a journey back in time.

Day 14: Broken Hill

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Broken Hill

Silver City Private Tour including lunch

Menindee Lakes & Kinchega National Park:  Enjoy a leisurely tour around the Menindee Lakes Scheme. Sit back and relax with morning tea on the shores of Copi Hollow. Travel to Menindee, and on to Kinchega National Park, this magnificent park is located along the banks of the Darling River.

Day 15: Flight to Sydney & Sea Sydney Cruise

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Old Sydney Holiday Inn

Includes transfers between hotels and airports including airport meet and greet upon arrival. Check in at hotel before a 5-minute walk to Sea Sydney Cruises for “Cruise Like a Local.”

Be engulfed by the beauty and magic of Sydney as you cruise like a local for four hours aboard Calypso, a 52-foot Motor Yacht. Cruise the foreshores of Sydney Harbour past the world famous, iconic landmarks including The Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Opera House before dropping anchor in a secluded cove, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet 3-course dinner. This is your chance to cruise like a local and truly enjoy this quintessential Australian experience.

4-hour cruise includes 3-course dinner, beer, wine and soft drinks.

Day 16: Ultimate Experience of Sydney

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Old Sydney Holiday Inn

Dingo Tours “City to Surf”: Meet members of the indigenous Gadigal people on their own turf. Explore the hottest bars and art galleries, or just have a barbie at the best picnic spot. Join this full day City to Surf Sydney tour to discover what lies beyond Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House and The Rocks. This full day tour (which includes a spot of lawn bowling and an Aussie BBQ lunch) will immerse you in the hustle and bustle of the most beautiful city on earth, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Day 17: Captain Cook Cruise

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Old Sydney Holiday Inn

Captain Cook Cruises “Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise”: Hop On and Hop Off at up to seven famous harbour attractions with this unlimited full day pass. Disembark at any one, stay as long as you like and board the next Explorer. Includes full commentary and stops at Fort Denison, Taronga Zoo, Shark Island, Watson’s Bay, Luna Park, Darling Harbour, and Circular Quay.

Only a 5-minute walk back to your hotel, and another 5- minute walk to Wolfie’s Grill Restaurant for a 3-course “Reef & Beef” dinner and alcoholic beverage package

Day 18: End of Trip

Transfer with Sydney Coaches from Hotel to International Airport.  Say goodbye to your new friends and enjoy the trip home!