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Introducing Australia

When is the best time to visit?
There's no bad time to visit Australia, though there are a few tips to keep in mind. Much of Australia runs hot, especially in the north—places like Uluru, Darwin & Cairns are best visited in Southern Hemisphere winter (June, July, August). The opposite applies for southern regions like Tasmania & Victoria that can get particularly cold in winter—January & February are the most pleasant times to visit.

Interested in the Great Barrier Reef? You'll have warm temps all year, though spring and summer bring stifling temps and lots of warm tropical rain. The famous Gold Coast is the country's Goldilocks region, with lovely weather throughout the year it's known for having beautiful weather most of the year. And given Sydney's southern latitude, glittering beaches are best visited in the warm summer months. Learn more

Where should you go?
Ask an Australian, and they'll tell you that picking a favorite place in their vast homeland feels as impossible as choosing a favorite child. That said, travelers can't go wrong with Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock, the stunning sandstone monolith in the Northern Territory), Cairns and the renowned Great Barrier Reef, and the famous sights of metropolitan Sydney. Head to the Gold Coast for beach time, Melbourne for culture, Kangaroo Island for wildlife, and Broome for to visit the fascinating Horizontal Falls, a series of tidal waterfalls in Talbot Bay that's considered to be a natural wonder. 

How many days do I need?
Since reaching this part of the world requires long flights across multiple time zones for most travelers, it's best to make the most of your journey with at least one week in-country. The more time you can give it, the more relaxed and satisfying the trip will be. A great 10-day itinerary might start with 3 days in Sydney, before heading to Uluru, Darwin and Kakadu National Park, and Cairns for a few days each. Learn more

Have two weeks at your disposal? Even better. Consider flying into Melbourne, spending two days on Kangaroo Island, taking the Ghan Train from Adelaide to Alice Springs, and finishing with two nights each in Uluru, Darwin, and Cairns. Learn more about getting around Australia.

If you're combining Australia with another nearby destination like New Zealand or Indonesia, a 5-7 day trip is doable—you'll probably want to stick to exploring one city and taking a couple of day trips from there.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

Australia Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Explore the Gold Coast's extensive coastline
Map of Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days
Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days

Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand on this week-long tour of Australia's famous Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Starting in Coolangatta, you'll head up the Gold Coast to Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach, and Surfers Paradise, where you'll enjoy golden beaches, world-class shopping, and a vibrant entertainment scene. End your stay in Byron Bay, taking in stunning sunsets, visiting organic farms, and meeting with friendly local artisans.

Australia's Twelve Apostles
Map of Melbourne to Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Tour - 5 Days
Melbourne to Great Ocean Road: Self Drive Tour - 5 Days

On this five-day self-drive trip, explore the coastal capital city of Melbourne and then hit the open road. One of Victoria's most scenic drives, Great Ocean Road provides plenty of exciting pit stops—explore the surfing town of Bells Beach, discover the waterfalls of Lorne, zipline through the Otway Ranges, and visit The Twelve Apostles rock formations. On the way back to Melbourne, do some sightseeing in Ballarat, known for its Gold Rush heritage and indigenous art.

Coastal Walk in Australia
Map of Ultimate Australia - 16 Days
Ultimate Australia - 16 Days

This well-rounded 16-day tour of Australia's highlights is sure to delight any first time visitor. You'll explore the hidden laneways of artsy Melbourne and the famous landmarks of Sydney, learn about indigenous culture at Uluru in the country's Red Center, and discover tropical Queensland with an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, you'll meet kangaroos at Kangaroo Island, search for crocodiles at Kakadu National Park, and have free time to enjoy a few day trips of your choosing.

Kangaroo crosses a dirt road in Western Australia
Map of The Best of Australia & New Zealand - 22 Days
The Best of Australia & New Zealand - 22 Days

Cover the spectrum of these two dynamic countries with this comprehensive itinerary. Start off in New Zealand, where you'll visit both the North and South islands to explore Maori culture, natural wonders, adventure sports, and more—sip wine on Waiheke island, hike at Aoraki, and cruise through Milford Sound. Then head to Australia, starting with the city sights in Melbourne before you meet the penguins of Phillip Island, stunning scenes of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, and urban streets of Sydney.

Uluru at sunset
Map of Outback Adventure: Uluru & Alice Springs - 5 Days
Outback Adventure: Uluru & Alice Springs - 5 Days

Explore the Australian Outback on this eventful five-day journey. Begin in Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, and discover the ancient Red Centre and its surroundings. Then, travel to Alice Springs to tour the art galleries and local sites, including Anza Hill and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. Next, visit the red-hued West MacDonnell Ranges as a scenic sendoff.

Port Douglas Beach
Map of Tropical North Queensland: Hamilton Island, Port Douglas, Cairns & More - 7 Days
Tropical North Queensland: Hamilton Island, Port Douglas, Cairns & More - 7 Days

Explore North Tropical Queensland on this seven-day tour. Begin in Hamilton Island and snorkel, sea kayak, play a round of golf, or relax. Then, take a cruise to Whitehaven Beach and learn the area's history. Next, journey to Port Douglas to enjoy a leisure day, a Daintree Rainforest tour, and an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. The trip winds down in Cairns, with plenty of native animal exhibits to visit and a scenic ride up the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

Make the Most of Your Time in Australia

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Get yourself to Kangaroo Island for a unique experience with the 'roos
How Many Days to Spend in Australia

When planning a trip to Australia, a 10-day trip is an ideal amount of time to visit four different areas. However, if you are strapped for time, you can explore two regions in...

Australia Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Australia Content

Take in the warm morning light on Melbourne's high-rise buildings across the Yarra River
Map of Ultimate Melbourne,  Sydney & Queenstown Tour - 12 Days
Ultimate Melbourne, Sydney & Queenstown Tour - 12 Days

This moderately active multicountry tour covers three fantastic cities Down Under and their scenic outskirts: Melbourne, Sydney, and Queenstown. Kick off in Australia's capital of culture, Melbourne, with guided excursions to the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island. Then jet off to Sydney and take in the sights by bike, bridge climb, and harbor cruise. Finish in New Zealand's South Island with a luxury tour to Milford Sound to round out this world-class adventure.

The setting sun turns the cliffs at Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park a brilliant red
Map of Australia & New Zealand Natural Wonders Road Trip - 21 Days
Australia & New Zealand Natural Wonders Road Trip - 21 Days

Natural beauty is at the forefront of this three-week road trip through Australia and New Zealand. Explore Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef in tropical Cairns, and take in the breathtaking beauty of Uluru in the Red Centre. Once you hop over to New Zealand, you'll see frozen glaciers, steaming thermal vents, and everything in between as you crisscross some of the most scenic highways in the world.

Daintree National Park, the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest
Map of 12 Days in Australia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 Days in Australia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Australia is vast in size and offerings, but with 12 days to spend, you have some great options to maximize your time Down Under. First-timers to Australia might focus on the classic sights of Sydney and the red rock landscape of Uluru. Nature-loving travelers can choose trips where you'll dive into the Great Barrier Reef and get up close and personal with kangaroos and koalas. Or, combine some of Australia's highlights with a few days in New Zealand's adventure hub, Queenstown.

Australia Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Australia map: 14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Australia map: 10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Australia map: 7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Australia
Travel specialist Liz Neal
active 1 day ago

Liz Neal

I have been involved in the travel industry since my first job out of college, working for hotels, travel companies and for the last 4 years in Springboard Vacations. I approach my customer's...

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Travel specialist Gary Topic
active 4 hours ago

Gary Topic

I am immensely proud of my beautiful, stunning country and love to show it off to visitors. I get a real buzz when someone from overseas says, "Wow, that was amazing." I am also an explorer by...

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Travel specialist Ruth Grau
active 6 hours ago

Ruth Grau

I grew up in small outback towns in South Australia before starting in the travel industry in Adelaide. After working many years in Sales & Marketing with tour companies, wholesalers and airlines,...

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Travel specialist Connie Campos
active 8 hours ago

Connie Campos

I have travel to Australia and New Zealand every year, and I've been to all the places you are looking to visit so I can speak to you from experience and first-hand knowledge.

read more...

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Australia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Great last minute help and service
Australia | Jan 24 - Feb 4, 2023

Joan
Joan G.
Charlottesville, VA | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023

I really appreciated Gary because he listened to what I was asking for in terms of hotels to stay and the types of experiences that I was interested. in””His work was somewhat stressful because I only had a few weeks before departure to plan the trip and the planning time included Christmas in between those weeks so I really appreciate his stepping up to the plate so quickly. I also learned myself that when I use Kim Kim in the future, I need to really look in detail at the options that they... read more

I really appreciated Gary because he listened to what I was asking for in terms of hotels to stay and the types of experiences that I was interested. in””His work was somewhat stressful because I only had a few weeks before departure to plan the trip and the planning time included Christmas in between those weeks so I really appreciate his stepping up to the plate so quickly. I also learned myself that when I use Kim Kim in the future, I need to really look in detail at the options that they are offering me and really explore them in depth to be sure that I’m asking clearly for the things that I want. I only had one real issue, and that was not being able to go on a scuba diving tour because of a physical limitation, and Gary was very helpful trying to address that at the last. Minute. It was also great to have someone I knew I could call in-country and a similar time zone if I needed assistance - that really helped.

Hotel Reviews
Spicers Potts Point
Potts Point

I LOVED this hotel in a great Neighborhood, with very kind staff and wonderful bars, restaurants all nearby

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney MGallery
The Rocks, Sydney NSW

Great central city hotel with very helpful staff- quiet but near everything

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Gary Topic

Everything was seamless and easy. It made our trip stress-free.
Australia | Feb 4 - Feb 12, 2023

Vaibhav
Vaibhav M.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Feb 21, 2023

Gary put together a fantastic itinerary that allowed us to see a lot of things in very little time. Having someone figure out transportation, accommodations, and activities was extremely helpful and saved us a lot of hassle. read more

Gary put together a fantastic itinerary that allowed us to see a lot of things in very little time. Having someone figure out transportation, accommodations, and activities was extremely helpful and saved us a lot of hassle.

Activity Reviews
Classic Kuranda Tour
Australia

Everything from the Gold Class train ride to the park to the views from the sky train was amazing. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Punctual, friendly, with clear instructions.
Food
Food at the park was sorta meh.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Transport
I mean, whaddya expect from a bus? It was a nice bus, though. USB ports included.
Sounds of Silence Dinner
Australia

The food was phenomenal, the view was spectacular, and the setting was intimate. I enjoyed the astronomy lesson, but I wish the digeradoo player hung out longer (maybe for the duration of the dinner!).

Sunrise Tour of Uluru (Ayers Rock) & Kata Tjuta Hike
Uluru

Hot and tiring, but the guide made it a good experience. The fanny packs with snacks and water were great. The toilets at the rest stops are ---- ummmmm..... an experience. I'm not sure if that could be upgraded since it's a government run thing. I would like to have had a more meditative experience of just "taking it in" when it was still cool first thing in the morning.

Day trip to the Great Barrier Reef
Australia

Well organized, food was great, equipment was excellent quality, supervision was top-notch, and the views were spectacular.

Small-Group Uluru Sunset Tour
Australia

I was expecting better food. Otherwise it was a nice view.

Local specialist: Gary Topic

Liz was wonderful. Fast and efficient making my trip fun!!
Australia | Jan 5 - Jan 15, 2023

Julie
Julie H.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2023

Liz was wonderful. She booked me the most amazing tour in quick turnaround. I loved Australia and being able to see the different animals indigenous to the area was really neat for me. I loved sailing to the Great Barrier Reef, I could spend a whole week there. The sky tram and train rides were so much fun. I loved Sydney and the bustle of the town. The penguin parade at Phillip island was also a must see. My trip was packed full of adventure and fun. I will definitely use Kim Kim in the... read more

Liz was wonderful. She booked me the most amazing tour in quick turnaround. I loved Australia and being able to see the different animals indigenous to the area was really neat for me. I loved sailing to the Great Barrier Reef, I could spend a whole week there. The sky tram and train rides were so much fun. I loved Sydney and the bustle of the town. The penguin parade at Phillip island was also a must see. My trip was packed full of adventure and fun. I will definitely use Kim Kim in the future.

Hotel Review
Bay Village Tropical Retreat & Apartments
Cairns, QLD

Very neat space just outside of the city. Easy walking to the warf and night market. Birds and small animals are heard instead of cars and urban noise. The room was tidy and big for just one person. The fridge was nice for keeping my drinks cold. The restaurant was there and I had breakfast included which was very good. Including hot and cold foods.

Authenticity & Character
Great restaurant attached with authentic delicious food from Bali
Location
Away from everything, but not too far.
Staff
Very helpful with all questions
Cleanliness & Comfort
Homey feeling.
Activity Reviews
Sydney Guided Bike Tour - Shared Tour
Sydney

So fun. And not really too physically taxing. Great way to see the city and big sights. The rain was no fun, but we all laughed anyway!!

Quality of Experience
Personal attention and small group size.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff was very helpful. Guide grew up there so he knew his stuff.
Transport
I walked to get there.
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

Cool rich history of the project and udon. It was fantastic to see it all up close.

Quality of Experience
Learning about the iconic place
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone I’ve met has been helpful.
Transport
I walked to this tour.
Full Day Blue Mountains Hike the World Heritage
Sydney

Amazing trip into the blue mountains. The worst part was the drive, but the guide gave us some interesting information. The hike was amazing and a bit strenuous but not too hard.

Quality of Experience
Lucy was good the hike was fantastic. And I just love the mountains.
Food
The restaurant was a neat place rich in its own history. The food was good and filling. Nice choice
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was nice and explained a lot
Transport
Small group
Welcome to Cairns!
Cairns

My favorite city. But yes it’s hot!!

Quality of Experience
Small town. Lots to walk around and do
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone I met was very nice
Transport
The airport driver included an extra tour of the town layout on the way to the hotel.
Full Day Marine World Outer Great Barrier Reef - to pontoon
Australia

Top ten best days I have ever had.

Quality of Experience
The crew was great. The places were beautiful. And everyone was nice and friendly.
Food
Good lunch on board.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Friendly and nice.
Transport
The fist driver didn’t show up. I was worried I would miss the trip. But a new driver came after a few calls and I made it.
Morning River Drift Snorkeling
Cairns

Canceled due to too much rain flooding the river.

Full Day Kuranda Rail & Skyrail
Australia

This was sooooo amazing. Both methods of transport were fantastic.

Quality of Experience
Seeing the treetops of the forest. Seeing the underneath thought the train.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
No one specific. But everyone was nice and helpful.
Transport
Getting to the place.
Full Day Phillip Island Tour with "Penguins Plus" Viewing
Melbourne

Such a unique and special treasure of a day. Seeing the animals would have been more fun if it wasn’t sooo hot, but again Mother Nature wins.

Quality of Experience
The staff at the penguins were great
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our small tour driver was very very nice. And knowledgeable.
Transport
Bumpy ride. But overall great
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2023

Hi Julie !
Thank you for your review. I am very happy that we could pull this trip together so fast!! And even more happy to hear how much you enjoyed it. I hope we can work together again so you can see more of Australia or even adventure into New Zealand, you would absolutely loooove New Zealand.

Until next time !
Liz
ps. keep sending me your day by day diaries, I enjoy every word of them !