Australia Private Expedition

Known for its iconic cityscapes and rich coral reefs, Australia is a country of spectacular grandeur. From the rock domes of the Red Centre to the intricate corals of the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy an intimate perspective on some of Australia’s grandest treasures. Explore this magnificent country alongside a private guide who will help you to discover remote stretches of the world’s largest barrier reef from secluded Lizard Island; and sleep within sight of sacred Uluru, where you’ll learn about the Aboriginal traditions that infuse the outback.

Trip highlights

Stay in three spectacular lodges: Lizard Island, Longitude 131°, and Southern Ocean Lodge.

Sip sundowners alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies on Kangaroo Island, known as Australia’s Galápagos.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef’s underwater world of sea turtles and schooling fish while snorkelling, diving, or paddling a glass-bottom kayak.

Itinerary - 13 Days

1–5 Sydney, Australia/Lizard Island

Land in Sydney, explore the city with a private guide and cruise the harbour. Fly to Lizard Island, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set on the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the reef by snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, and glass-bottom kayak; and enjoy a private sunset cruise. Shangri-La Sydney;
Lizard Island (Day 2: B/L; Day 3: B/D; Days 4 and 5: B/L/D Daily)

6-8 Cairns/Uluru

Spend one night in Cairns before flying to the outback in the morning. Settle into Longitude 131°, a National Geographic Unique Lodge that offers spectacular views of Uluru. In Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, circumnavigate Uluru, examining ancient rock paintings, and walk between soaring rock domes. National Geographic guests will enjoy an exclusive introduction to outback cuisine.
Shangri-La Hotel; Longitude 131° (Day 6: B; Days 7 and 8: B/L/D Daily)

9-13 Kangaroo Island/Sydney

Fly to Kangaroo Island and check in to Southern Ocean Lodge, another National Geographic Unique Lodge. Walk coastal trails, visit Seal Bay, discover unique geology, and enjoy a private dinner in the wine cellar. Return to Sydney for a final night.
Southern Ocean Lodge; Shangri-La Sydney (Days 9: B/D; Days 10 and 11: B/L/D Daily; Days 12 and 13: B Daily)