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Australia | Wildlife & Natural Wonders in Brisbane & Melbourne

Sample Itinerary

Destinations

AUS

Trip Duration

9 nights / 10 days

With its distinctive and diverse natural environments brimming with a wealth of native animals in their natural habitats, discover Australia. From scenic coastlines, ancient landmarks and lush landscapes, to unique wildlife, protected sanctuaries and lively sea life, experience it all in the remarkable regions of the Land Down Under.

Below is just a sample of the immersive itineraries our Destination Specialists can create. Click on the experiences links in the itinerary to see other curated excursion choices offered by Journese. Our Destination Specialists are happy to book our hotels and excursions highlighted in the itinerary below, or let them know if you would like something customized. And, feel free to offer our non-hyperlinked suggestions to your clients to further explore the destination.

Itinerary

Day 1: USA / Brisbane

Relax on your comfortable overnight flight in to Brisbane, upon arrival board your private transfer to The Westin Brisbane for four nights in a Premium river view guestroom with daily breakfast. A sophisticated urban retreat in the city center, close to shopping and popular attractions, retreat to signature Heavenly Beds, aviation-inspired restaurant, pool with swim-up bar, spa, children's amenities and a popular jazz bar.

Days 2 - 3: Brisbane |

A day of adventure and excitement awaits on the Premium Dolphin Feeding Day Cruise. Relax on a ferry ride to Tangalooma Island Resort. Upon arrival, enjoy use of the VIP lounge, try a bit of sand tobogganing at Desert Safari, delight in swimming and sunbathing and then bask in the highlight of your day ... wild dolphin feeding.

The following day, explore Brisbane at your leisure. Bike ride in the City Botanic Gardens or cruise down the Brisbane River spotting pelicans. Laze next to the gardens and lagoons of South Bank or explore Fortitude Valley's cafes and boutique shops. For an adrenalin-pumping view of the city and its surrounds, you can do a bridge climb, abseil down Kangaroo Point Cliffs or coast over in a hot air balloon.

Day 4: Brisbane |

An animal lovers dream, embark on a hands-on Koala Cuddle Adventure. Relish the stunning views from Glass House Mountains Lookout point before arriving at the Australia Zoo. Enjoy live shows, wildlife warriors and time to stroll the zoo watching the incredible animals. Plus, enjoy the opportunity to cuddle a koala, take a souvenir photo and take a sneak peek inside the Wildlife Hospital.

This evening, savor dinner at Rogue Bistro. This secret gem is tucked away in a semi-industrial area and offers creative and Instagram worthy dishes on a six-course tasting menu that changes monthly. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, delight in meat, fish, game, plant-based, vegetarian and vegan bites or pure perfection.

Day 5: Brisbane / Melbourne

Board your non-stop flight to Melbourne, then a private transfer will take you to the W Melbourne for five delightful nights in a Wonderful guestroom with daily breakfast. Your elevated stay begins in bold uber-chic guestrooms with private balconies. Bask in Whatever/Whenever Service, be tempted by Japanese and Australian cuisines, sip a cocktail at WET poolside bar, enjoy an evening at their swanky nightclub or relax by the indoor pool.

Day 6: Melbourne |

Natural beauty abounds on the full-day Great Ocean Road Experience. Explore the Great Ocean Road on this small group experience, visiting Split Point Lighthouse with its breathtaking views of Bass Straight. Be on the lookout for whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots, then stroll the magnificent beach in Apollo Bay. In the afternoon, enjoy access to an ancient Eucalyptus forest and stroll the Twelve Apostles, Lock Ard Gorge and Shipwreck Coast.

Days 7 - 8: Melbourne

Spend a long leisurely day exploring Melbourne. Sitting on the Yarra River at Port Phillip Bay, this stylish, vibrant city is a maze of hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. Visit Federation Square, the city's landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St. Kilda promenade. Shop till you drop on chic Brunswick Street, wander Southbank's cafes, bistros and bars or take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The next day, embark on wildlife adventure on the full-day Phillip Island Penguin Parade with Ranger Excursion. Begin at the iconic Brighton Beach bathing boxes, then enjoy a guided walk around Moonlit Sanctuary. Delight in hand feeding kangaroos and wallabies, marvel at the rugged outcrops of the Nobbies, then relish priority seating for the renowned Penguin Parade.

Days 9 - 10: Melbourne / USA

Spend your final day at leisure, choose a relaxing day basking in your hotel's amenities and dining options or go out and explore the town. Wine lovers can head in to Yarra Valley for cellar door tastings, while food connoisseurs should visit Melbourne's many lanes and arcades full of pubs, cafes and fine restaurants.

After a tasty breakfast, board your comfortable transfer for your return flight home and begin planning your next Australian escape.

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