Overview
Southern Australia & Tasmania Unveiled with Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of Australia. If your idea of travel includes dramatic coastlines, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and authentic local flavors, this is the journey for you. In Cairns, discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, where vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters create one of the world’s most extraordinary natural experiences. From Melbourne’s vibrant cultural scene to the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, discover iconic landscapes, charming seaside towns, and the natural beauty that defines Australia’s southern coast.Continue to South Australia and Kangaroo Island, where kangaroos, sea lions, and rugged scenery thrive in one of the country’s most pristine environments. In Tasmania, explore Hobart’s historic waterfront, sample regional specialties on Bruny Island, and gain insight into rural life on a working sheep farm. Your journey concludes in spectacular Sydney, where iconic landmarks are paired with immersive experiences—from Bondi Beach and the Sydney Opera House to a behind-the-scenes tasting at the Sydney Fish Market. This 21-day Small Group Discovery from Globus brings together Australia’s diverse landscapes, distinctive wildlife, and regional flavors in one immersive journey.
Highlights of Southern Australia & Tasmania Unveiled with Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
City Highlights
Price Details US
Travelers Notes
- Full-day excursion to the Outer Great Barrier by catamaran, including snorkeling, glass bottom boat ride, and fish feeding presentation
- Guided sightseeing in Melbourne including a visit to the Koorie Heritage Trust
- [LF] Guided foodie tour of Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market
- Visit the Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island
- [LF] Admission and premium seating to the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island
- Lunch aboard The Q Train along the Bellarine Peninsula
- Wine tasting with lunch at the Winehouse in Langhorne Creek
- Visits to Flinders Chase National Park, Admirals Arch, and the Remarkable Rocks on Kangaroo Island
- Private tour of Seal Bay Conservation Park
- Explore the Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf with lunch
- Guided walk of Hobart’s historic waterfront with dinner at Hope & Anchor Tavern
- Excursion to Bruny Island, featuring tastings of local specialties
- Excursion to the Tasman Peninsula, including a visit to Port Arthur Historic Site
- Guided tour of Curringa Farm, including a sheep-shearing demonstration and BBQ lunch
- Visit the Sydney Fish Market for a behind-the-scenes tour and seafood tasting
- Private guided tour of the Sydney Opera House
- [LF] Visit to Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club with lunch
- Base tour and sunset toast at Uluru
- Visit to Kata Tjuta overlook
- All intra-vacation flights as noted in the itinerary
Notes
This tour visits remote regions where some facilities are not up to the first-class standards you expect from Globus. However, we have selected the best available hotels that satisfy our high standards of cleanliness and comfort.
Transportation
UNESCO Sites
Australian Convict Sites|Sydney Opera House
Product Group
Southern Australia & Tasmania Unveiled
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to tropical Cairns! Your hotel room is available for immediate check-in, and no pre-night is required for early check-in. Your Local Host will contact you with recommendations for dining, shopping, and sightseeing during your stay.Please note: Assistance in Cairns is provided by a Local Host, as indicated in the itinerary. You will meet your Tour Director and the rest of your group in Melbourne on Day 4.
Day 2
CAIRNS. EXCURSION TO THE OUTER GREAT BARRIER REEF Below the Surface Prepare for a full-day cruise by catamaran to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Spend the day exploring the reef’s coral formations and marine life before returning to Cairns, where the evening is at leisure. You may wish to visit the Cairns Night Markets, the perfect place for local dining and souvenirs. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTBUCKET LIST. CHECK! The only living structure on Earth that can be seen from space, the Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of Mother Nature comprising over 3,000 individual reefs and spanning over 135,135 miles (350,000 square kilometers). During your catamaran journey to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, choose to snorkel, take a semi-submersible tour, join a marine presentation, or simply enjoy time on the water surrounded by coral and marine life.
Day 3
CAIRNS Aussie Adventures Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore more of Cairns. (B)ENCHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Cairns with the option of a 4 wheel-drive excursion into the Daintree Rainforest, a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, or time to stroll the Cairns Esplanade with its shops and art galleries. You may also choose to relax at your resort. These and other options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Local Host can provide tips and guidance for your time at leisure.
Day 4
CAIRNS–MELBOURNE G’Day Melbourne! Fly to Melbourne and meet your Tour Director and travel companions at this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (D)MELBOURNE-SKYLINE.jpg
Day 5
MELBOURNE War Heroes & Royal Gardens Sightseeing today begins with a [LF] guided tour of the Queen Victoria Market. Continue to landmarks including Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit Fitzroy Gardens, then drive past the Royal Botanic Gardens. See key architectural landmarks such as the Victorian Arts Centre and surrounding cultural precinct. Continue to Koorie Heritage Trust, where you’ll gain insight into the traditions, stories, and contemporary culture of the Indigenous people of the region. The evening is at leisure. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITE MARKET FRESH Explore Melbourne’s culinary scene on a [LF] guided foodie tour of Queen Victoria Market. Wander through one of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest open-air markets and sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties. Learn how Melbourne’s diverse cultural influences have shaped its foodie scene.
Day 6
MELBOURNE. EXCURSION TO PHILLIP ISLAND Wild by Nature After time at leisure this morning, travel to Phillip Island to experience its coastal scenery, beaches, and crashing ocean waves. Visit the Koala Conservation Centre for a chance to see koalas in their natural bushland setting before continuing to the famous [LF] Penguin Parade. Return to Melbourne this evening. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE The highlight of the day is the famed [LF] Penguin Parade, where you will observe little penguins returning ashore at sunset to one of Australia’s largest penguin colonies. From the Penguins Plus viewing area, watch as the penguins move from the ocean to their burrows across the sand. NOTE: Penguins are sensitive to light. Cameras, camcorders, and mobile phones are not permitted during the Penguin Parade to protect their natural behavior.
Day 7
MELBOURNE Vineyards & Views Today is at leisure. (B) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Melbourne with an optional visit to the Eureka Skydeck for panoramic views of the city skyline, or a walking tour through the city’s laneways and arcades. You may also choose to explore the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions. These experiences and additional options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director can also provide recommendations for making the most of your free time.
Day 8
MELBOURNE–GEELONG–WARRNAMBOOL Rail & Coastal Wonders This morning, travel to Geelong and board The Q Train for a one-way rail journey along Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, enjoying a seasonal lunch onboard. Continue by coach along the Great Ocean Road, passing coastal cliffs and ocean scenery en route to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, two of the region’s most recognized landmarks. Continue through seaside towns and coastal landscapes before arriving in Warrnambool this evening. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Experience a memorable dining journey aboard The Q Train, where each course highlights regional flavors inspired by the land and sea just beyond your window. As the train winds through the Bellarine, enjoy seasonal dishes paired with ever-changing views—an unforgettable blend of cuisine, scenery, and storytelling.
Day 9
WARRNAMBOOL–MOUNT GAMBIER Volcanic Landscapes Continue west along the Shipwreck Coast, where rugged cliffs and windswept beaches reflect Australia’s maritime history. Cross from Victoria into the state of South Australia and travel to Mount Gambier, a region shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Visit Blue Lake, known for its striking seasonal color change, before arriving at your hotel. Your evening is at leisure to explore town and enjoy local dining, often paired with the region’s renowned Coonawarra wines. (B)
Day 10
MOUNT GAMBIER–KANGAROO ISLAND Island Escape Travel along the coast to Langhorne Creek, where you enjoy a relaxed lunch and wine tasting at The Winehouse, featuring regional produce and local wines. Continue to Cape Jervis and board a ferry across the Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. TOUR HIGHLIGHTISLAND ICON Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s top nature destinations, known for its diverse landscapes, coastal scenery, and abundant native wildlife. The island is home to kangaroos, sea lions, and a wide range of bird life across beaches, cliffs, and protected habitats.Your stay in American River offers a peaceful waterfront setting, where native wildlife and coastal views are part of daily life. Look for birdlife along the shoreline and perhaps even a wallaby grazing at dusk!
Day 11
KANGAROO ISLAND A Walk in the Park Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders Chase National Park, home to native wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Continue to Remarkable Rocks, where sculpted granite formations overlook the Southern Ocean. Next, visit Admirals Arch, a coastal rock formation and habitat for a colony of New Zealand fur seals. Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening. (B,L) TOUR HIGHLIGHT THE WILD SIDE Seal Bay Conservation Park is known for its population of Australian sea lions along a remote stretch of coastline. A guided ranger tour brings you onto the beach to observe the colony in its natural environment. Learn about their behavior, movement patterns, and social structure within this protected habitat. This is a truly exceptional wildlife experience not to be missed. Keep your camera handy for some terrific photo ops!
Day 12
KANGAROO ISLAND– ADELAIDE Sweet Adelaide Bid farewell to Kangaroo Island and transfer to Penneshaw for your ferry back to the mainland. Cross the Backstairs Passage to Cape Jervis, then continue by coach to Adelaide. On arrival, the remainder of your day is at leisure. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Adelaide at your own pace. Relax at your hotel or browse the shops along Rundle Mall. You may also choose to sample local specialties at Haigh’s Chocolates. Your Tour Director can provide recommendations to help you make the most of your free time.
Day 13
ADELAIDE Among the Hills Begin with a sightseeing tour of Adelaide, known for its tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and landscaped parklands. Continue into the Adelaide Hills, a region of rolling countryside and small towns. Visit charming Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, known for its heritage architecture, artisan shops, and galleries. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before returning to the city. (B,L)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Adelaide this evening. You may choose to dine at a local restaurant and explore South Australia’s food and wine scene at your own pace. Your Tour Director can provide recommendations for free time activities.
Day 14
ADELAIDE–HOBART On the Waterfront Fly to Hobart in Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian devil. As one of Australia’s oldest capitals, Hobart reflects its colonial past through restored Georgian buildings and waterfront heritage architecture. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Join your Tour Director for a walk along Hobart’s waterfront, where historic warehouses and harbor views reflect the city’s maritime past. Hear stories of early settlers, convicts, explorers, and entrepreneurs who shaped the region. Enjoy dinner at Hope & Anchor Tavern, Australia’s oldest continually operating pub, known for its heritage character and focus on local seafood and produce.
Day 15
HOBART. EXCURSION TO BRUNY ISLAND Indulgent Island Travel from Hobart to Bruny Island for a guided tasting experience featuring the island’s local produce. Return to Hobart where the evening is at leisure. You may wish to explore Battery Point, known for its heritage streets, or sample local seafood, wines, and spirits in the city. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTFRESH TASTES Head to Bruny Island, home to breathtaking landscapes, stunning wildlife and array of foods to delight the sense. Visit the Neck Lookout and Two Tree Point for amazing coastal views and stroll through Mavista Rainforest, where native vegetation and wildlife can be found. Enjoy some of the island’s specialities such as oysters, seafood, berries, local wine, beer, and whiskey. After your time here, you’ll see why Bruny Island is considered to be a nature lover and foodie’s dreamscape.
Day 16
HOBART. EXCURSION TO THE TASMAN PENINSULA Historic Highlights Begin at Salamanca Market, where you can browse artisan stalls and sample fresh local produce. Enjoy time at leisure to explore, have coffee, or shop. Journey along the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur Historic Site for a guided tour. Return to Hobart in the evening.TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY LESSONS Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Australia’s most significant heritage sites, preserving the history of the country’s convict-era settlement. During your guided visit, explore restored buildings, ruins, former homes, and landscaped grounds. Learn about the 75,000 convicts transported to Tasmania between 1803 and 1853, including men, women, and children who lived and worked at the site.
Day 17
HOBART. EXCURSION TO CURRINGA FARM Farm Life & Country Fare Travel into the Derwent Valley for a visit to a working sheep farm offering insight into Tasmanian rural life. Meet the farmers, learn about daily operations, and take in views across the surrounding pastoral landscape. Return to Hobart this afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTFARM TO TABLE Curringa Farm is a working sheep and cropping property covering 750 acres in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley. Learn about daily farm operations, including sheep mustering with working dogs and regional crop production such as poppies and onions. Enjoy a barbecue lunch featuring produce from the farm, served against a backdrop of sweeping countryside views.
Day 18
HOBART–SYDNEY Harbour Delights Today brings you to Sydney, Australia’s largest city, known for its harbor setting, first-class restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Upon arrival, visit the Sydney Fish Market on Blackwattle Bay for a guided tour and tasting. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Visit the Sydney Fish Market for a behind-the-scenes tour of the world’s third-largest seafood markets. Explore the auction area and learn how seafood moves from ocean to market. Meet local vendors and gain insight into Australia’s seafood industry before enjoying a guided tasting featuring market-selected produce.
Day 19
SYDNEY Surf & Sites Explore more in Sydney. Visit the Sydney Opera House, then continue to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in the Royal Botanic Gardens for views across the harbor, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. Next, travel to Bondi Beach for a visit to the [LF] Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club with a local lifesaver. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEHISTORIC SPOT [LF] Meet members of the local surf lifesaving club at Bondi Beach and learn about their role in beach safety and the area’s coastal culture. Continue to the North Bondi RSL for lunch. Learn about the history of the club and its connection to Australian servicemen, including the “Rats of Tobruk” during World War II. Enjoy lunch overlooking the waterfront.TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEM The Sydney Opera House is one of the most well-known buildings in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, and completed in 1973, after sixteen years of construction. On a private guided tour, explore its interior performance spaces and learn about its design, construction, and ongoing cultural role in Sydney. Hear untold stories, be awed by the acoustics, and learn the history and future of this amazing hall beneath the sails.
Day 20
SYDNEY Spectacular Sydney Today is at leisure to explore independently. This evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE Explore more in Sydney with optional experiences available. You may choose to visit the Blue Mountains for a day in a protected natural landscape, or the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s established wine regions. For city views, you may also choose to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Your Tour Director can provide recommendations to help you plan your free time.
Day 21
SYDNEY Until We Meet Again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may choose to extend your stay in Sydney and continue exploring independently. Additional nights are available for purchase. (B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Pullman Cairns International | Pullman Cairns International is an upscale hotel exuding the architectural grandeur of the city's rich colonial past. Overlooking Cairns Harbour and the lush mountain hinterland, this 321-room hotel is perfectly positioned in the CBD to take advantage of all the city has to offer. After a great day of sightseeing, dine in Coco's Restaurant, grab a drink at the Lobby Bar, or pamper yourself at Vie Spa. Laundry is available through the hotel for a fee. | Cairns | 17 Abbott St | Superior First-Class |
| 2 | The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins | Situated in the heart of downtown Melbourne, The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins is ideally located for exploring the city. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi. | Melbourne | 630 Little Collins Street | First-Class |
| 3 | Lady Bay Resort | Situated on the world-famous Great Ocean Road and directly across from the beach, The Lady Bay Resort offers the opportunity to explore coastal footpaths, interact with the local fauna and enjoy the beautiful beaches. This self contained resort has a contemporary design with coastal architecture inspired by its natural surroundings, making it an idyllic escape to relax and unwind. | Warrnambool | 2 Pertobe Rd | Moderate First-Class |
| 4 | Mantra Mount Gambier | The Mantra Mount Gambier is located just mintues from Mount Gambier's city center, making it a perfect location for a stay on the Limestone Coast. The hotel offers modern designs inspired by the regional landscapes, a new on-site restaurant and comfortable rooms with everything you need for a relaxing stay. | Mount Gambier | 96 Jubilee Highway | Moderate First-Class |
| 5 | Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge | Surrounded by trees, birdlife, animals, the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge sits on the banks of the Eastern Cove of Kangaroo Island overlooking the ocean waters of American River. The lodge features an award-winning restaurant, outdoor saltwater pool, sauna, outdoor atrium, sundries shop, guest laundry facility, and complimentary Wi-Fi. | Kangaroo Island | 73 Scenic Dr | |
| 6 | Majestic Roof Garden Hotel | Style and function are themes of the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel. As the Majestic's flagship, built in 2004, this award-winning hotel boasts simplicity, efficiency, and an eco-centric design. And as it sits just off of the lively Rundle Street, the convenience of bars, restaurants, shopping and museums is unparalleled. After a busy day of sightseeing and on-the-go activities, guests are welcomed back to comfortable accommodations and locally fresh cuisine in the hotel's restaurant - not to mention a great selection of wine! Follow it up with a view of the city from a relaxing garden roof-top, for which the hotel is aptly named. | Adelaide | 55 Frome Street | First-Class |
| 7 | Moevenpick Hotel Hobart | Situated in the center of Hobart, Movenpick Hotel Hobart is an ideal base to explore the culture, history and spirit of the charming capital city of Tasmania. Enjoy some of the greatest views in town from the warmly decorated, chic rooms that offer floor-to-ceiling windows. Hotel amenities include a contemporary restaurant, trendy bar and afternoon chocolate tastings to enjoy after a day of sightseeing. | Hobart | 28 Elizabeth Street | Moderate First-Class |
| 8 | Hyatt Regency Sydney | Situated near Darling Harbour in Sydney's central business district, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat for travelers. Sydney's largest luxury hotel offers 878 rooms, award-winning restaurants, and 4,000 square meters of versatile conference and event space. | Sydney | 161 Sussex St. Sydney 2000 | Superior First-Class |
