| Monday, July 21 |
Day 10 – SYDNEY/CAIRNS – Today we transfer to the airport for our flight north to Cairns , the Gateway to the famous Rain Forest and the Great Barrier Reef . We are met at the airport and transfer to the Kuranda Scenic Rail. We travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes through hand hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges. We stop to then spend some time exploring Kuranda, the quaint Village before a short journey brings us to Rainforest Station set in 100 acres gardens and rainforest. We can board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look and an experienced guide shows us unique tropical fruits, ancient rainforest plants and point out a number of native animals. Join the Dreamtime Walk for an insight into ancient Aboriginal and Islander history. Their way of life is explained and we can even try our hand at boomerang throwing. The Pamagirri Dancers perform a range of native dances in the Rainforest Amphitheatre that reflects the humor and excitement of their culture. Cuddle a koala, smile at a crocodile and hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies. A range of other native animals and reptiles are also on display. Time to return to Kuranda and board Skyrail, an experience which takes us over the Rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing a stroll or visit the Interpretive Center before arriving at Caravonica Lakes . Our coach is waiting to take us to our stunning accommodations after a wonderful day. Dinner is on our own. |
| Tuesday, July 22 |
DAY 11 – CAIRNS - The Barron River Gorge is located 20 minutes' drive north of Cairns and lies along a traditional pathway used by the original indigenous Djabugay people. The spectacular Barron Falls , further upstream, are considered a sacred site. The famous Kuranda Railway and Skyrail Cableway also traverse sections of the gorge. We board our white water raft for a heart thumping ride which spears through The Barron Gorge National Park and the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics. In the calmer sections we enjoy the ethereal beauty of the world’s oldest rainforest and waterfalls from a unique waterline perspective. We next visit Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm, renowned as ‘the Best Crocodile Show in Australia . We encounter literally hundreds of crocodiles! We cruise in specially constructed boats to explore the natural habitat of the Australian Saltwater Crocodile. We also discover koalas, kangaroos, cassowaries, dingoes, snakes and reptiles. Set amid 15 acres of tropically landscaped gardens, Cairns Tropical Zoo provides the perfect introduction to Australia ’s fascinating wildlife. We enjoy a uniquely hands-on experience: cuddle a Koala, pat a crocodile, hand feed kangaroos and emus, stroke a snake, scratch a wombat, feed the lorikeets or chat to the cockatoos. And don’t miss the spectacular free flight bird show. We return to our hotel for overnight. |
| Wednesday, July 23 |
Day 12 THE GREAT BARRIER REEF - The Great Barrier Reef is undisputed as one of the world’s most important natural assets. It is the largest natural feature on earth stretching more than 1400 miles along the northeast coast of Australia and 45 mile across at its widest point. Our coach takes us to Port Douglas a ride of about 50 minutes –enjoy the scenery along the way. The largest reef in the world is a true wonderland of color and beauty. Bigger than the entire area of Italy , it is probably the best known marine protected area in the world. This World Heritage Area contains more than just coral reefs. It also contains extensive areas of seagrass, mangrove, soft bottom communities and island communities. It provides habitats for an estimated 1 500 species of fish and more than 300 species of hard, reef-building corals. More than 4 000 mollusk species and over 400 species of sponges have been identified. The extensive seagrass beds are an important feeding ground for the endangered dugong, a mammal species. The reef contains nesting grounds of world significance for the endangered green and loggerhead turtles. It is also a breeding area for humpback whales, which come from the Antarctic to give birth to their young in the warm waters. Our cruise to the Great Barrier Reef includes morning and afternoon tea, and a delicious lunch. For our experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's friendly crew takes us to Agincourt Reef, a magnificent ribbon reef where we can experience first hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef . On the reef we can choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, just one 3 free underwater. Watch the fish feeding from the unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory or fly in a helicopter over the reef. Whichever way we choose, we'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder. We return to our hotel for overnight. |
| Thursday, July 24 |
Day 13 – RETURN – This morning following breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flight to Los Angels via Sydney and our home city arriving later today with memories of a lifetime. |
