Australia

The Land Down Under

Want a destination that truly has it all? Australia is a land of contrasts, where ancient Aboriginal heritage meets a dynamic modern culture, all set against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty, unique animals, and incredible culinary delights.

Observe the fiery red hues of a sunset over Uluru, feeling ancient stories whispered on the wind. Picture yourself diving into the kaleidoscopic underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Hike through the lush, emerald rainforests of the Daintree, listening to exotic birds. Admire the iconic Sydney Opera House gleaming beside its spectacular harbour, before relaxing on a pristine Bondi Beach with the ocean lapping at your feet.

Did You Know? Australia is the only continent in the world that is also a country! It's often called the "island continent" because it's surrounded by water, yet it's large enough to be classified as a continent. Quite unique, isn't it?

Ethos Travel Advice: Enjoy Australia's unique wildlife responsibly. For snakes and spiders, stick to trails and wear sturdy shoes. At the beach, swim where it's patrolled, watch for marine stingers. Remember: always observe animals from a distance.

Travel to Australia with Ethos Escapes

Dreaming of Australia? It's a vast country and continent, brimming with incredible landscapes and vibrant cultures. Planning such a big adventure can be a bit much, but that's where we step in. We'll sort out every detail to match exactly what you're after. Here are three itinerary ideas to get you started.

International Stopovers to Australia

Direct flights from the UK to Australia are exceptionally long. For your comfort, we highly recommend taking a break during your journey. We particularly recommend Singapore – a clean, modern city with incredible food – or Bangkok – a sensory feast of ornate temples and delicious cuisine. Other excellent choices for onward travel include Hong Kong or Dubai.

Ready to plan your Aussie adventure? Get in touch today!

Hello Australia
A Deeper Dive Into Australia

Ideal For

This itinerary is ideal for travellers eager to experience Australia's iconic places, encompassing a dynamic mix of bustling city life, breathtaking natural marvels, and profound Indigenous cultural insights.

Itinerary Breakdown

Days 1-4: Sydney – An average flight from London to Sydney takes around 22-25 hours, including stops. Explore the majestic Opera House and climb the Harbour Bridge. Discover the Royal Botanic Garden, or unwind on Bondi Beach. Visit a wildlife park near Sydney where you can see kangaroos and koalas. Consider an Aboriginal cultural tour to learn about the Gadigal people's deep connection to country.

Days 5-7: Uluru & Kata Tjuta – Fly to Australia's Red Centre (approx. 3-3.5 hours from Sydney). Experience the spiritual heartland of Australia with sunrise and sunset views of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Learn about the ancient Anangu culture through guided walks and art workshops. Enjoy a 'Sounds of Silence' dinner under a blanket of stars, where the lack of light pollution makes the celestial display truly spectacular!

Days 8-11: Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest – Fly to Cairns (a direct flight takes 2 hours 30 minutes). Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to witness vibrant marine life. Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest (2-hour drive), the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest, and its unique flora and fauna.

Days 12-15: Melbourne – Fly to Melbourne (approx. 3-3.5 hours), renowned for its vibrant arts, culture, and culinary scene. Explore its hidden laneways, street art, and boutique shops. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria, enjoy a sporting event, or take a day trip to the picturesque Yarra Valley for wine tasting (1-hour drive). Consider a day trip to Phillip Island to witness the iconic Penguin Parade (approx. 1.5-2 hours drive from Melbourne).

Practical Information

Pace: Moderate to Fast.
Where: This itinerary focuses on Australia's iconic eastern seaboard (New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland) and the spiritual heart of the Red Centre (Northern Territory).
Transport: Primarily domestic flights for long distances between cities and regions. Local trams, trains, and taxis are used within cities.
Accommodation: A mix of modern city hotels, wilderness lodges, and eco-resorts.
Guides: Recommended for indigenous cultural experiences, Great Barrier Reef tours, and rainforest explorations for a better understanding and safety.

Ideal For

Discovering Australia's soul, with immersive Indigenous culture and ancient art, alongside the vibrancy of its cities, the majesty of its landscapes, and encounters with its unique wildlife in wetlands and rainforests.

Itinerary Breakdown

Days 1-5: Sydney & Blue Mountains – Arrive in Sydney (around 22-25 hours from London, including stops). Explore iconic city sights like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Visit a local wildlife park for close encounters with kangaroos and koalas. Dedicate two days to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains (a 1.5-2 hour drive from Sydney), for dramatic rock formations, scenic cable car rides, and charming mountain towns, including an overnight stay.

Days 5-8: Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest – Fly from Sydney to Cairns (a 3-hour flight). Settle in, then spend two full days exploring the Great Barrier Reef, with options for snorkelling, diving, or glass-bottom boat tours. Then, travel north (approx. 2-hour drive) to the Daintree Rainforest, beginning your exploration with cultural walks or river cruises to spot wildlife.

Days 9-12: Daintree & Cairns – Immerse yourself in the Daintree Rainforest, exploring Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Enjoy activities such as beach walks or jungle surfing, with an overnight stay in the Daintree. Return to Cairns (2-2.5 hours drive). Fly from Cairns to Darwin (2.5-hour flight) and explore Darwin's vibrant historical waterfront.

Days 13-16: Kakadu National Park – Embark on a multi-day guided tour into Kakadu National Park (a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Darwin). Focus on Aboriginal rock art sites and interpretive walks. Enjoy a Yellow Water Billabong cruise for incredible wildlife spotting (crocodiles, birds). Visit cultural centres to learn about the Bininj people.

Days 17-21: Litchfield National Park & Darwin – Explore Litchfield National Park (a 3.5-4 hour drive from Kakadu). Swim in stunning waterfalls like Florence, Tolmer, and Wangi Falls, and see the unique magnetic termite mounds. Return to Darwin to further explore the city sights before your flight departure to the UK.

Practical Information

Pace: Moderate, allowing for in-depth, immersive experiences.

Where: This itinerary focuses on Sydney/Blue Mountains (New South Wales), Tropical North Queensland (Cairns/Daintree/Great Barrier Reef), and the Top End of the Northern Territory (Darwin/Kakadu/Litchfield).
Transport: Primarily domestic flights between regions. Within each region, tours or private transfers are highly recommended, especially for national parks and cultural sites, to gain expert insights and navigate safely.
Accommodation: A mix of comfortable hotels in cities, eco-lodges or resort-style accommodation near national parks, and possibly unique outback stays.
Guides: Highly recommended, especially for Indigenous cultural experiences, Great Barrier Reef excursions, and national park explorations.

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Best Time to Visit

Dec-Feb: Hot across most regions, best for southern beaches
Mar-May: Mild, pleasant, good for most areas
Jun-Aug: Mild in south, great for tropical north
Sep-Nov: Blooming, pleasant for most areas

Time Difference

Australia spans 3 time zones
Sydney/Melbourne:
+9 hours (UK summer)
+11h (UK winter, some states observe Daylight Saving)
Perth: +7h (for both UK summer & winter)

Flight Time

Very long haul
London to Sydney or Melbourne: 21-24 hours
(typically 1 stop, often 2)

Visas & Health

Obtain an ETA or eVisitor visa before travel
Passport valid for duration of stay
Check vaccinations with your GP
High standards of health and hygiene
Be aware of wildlife, incl. venomous species

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