WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Tour	Days	Operator	Code	Full Itinerary
Wildflowers & Dolphins	4	APT	WA04
Western Wildflower Wonderland	8	APT	WA08
Western Wildflower Wonderland	15	APT	WA15
West Coast & Top End	19	TM	TWN19
Monkey Mia Adventure	5	AAT	WPMP
Southern Wonders	8	AAT	WPPE
Grand Western Discovery	9	AAT	WDB
Grand Western Discovery	12-19	AAT	Various

Wildflowers & Dolphins
From Perth - 4 Days

Tour Code: WA04

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Jan. 17, 31 / Feb. 21 / Mar. 14 / Apr. 4, 18 / May 9, 30 / Jun. 20 / July 11 / Aug. 1, 22, 29 / Sep. 4, 5, 12, 18, 19, 26 / Oct. 2, 3, 10, 16, 17, 24, 31 / Nov. 7, 14, 21

Departure Dates 2002

Jan. 2, 30 / Feb. 20 / Mar. 13 / Apr. 3, 17 / May 8, 29 / Jun. 19 / Jul. 10, 31 / Aug. 21, 27, 28 / Sep. 3, 4, 11, 17, 18, 25 / Oct. 1, 2, 9, 15, 16, 23, 30 / Nov. 6, 13, 20

Blue dates are guaranteed departures.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Wed. New Norcia, Kalbarri (BD)
Visit the township of New Norcia, touched with the influence of early Spanish Benedictine Monks. See the monastery, church, and visit the museum. Overnight: Kalbarri, Palm Resort.

Day 2 Thur. Kalbarri National Park (BD)
Tour Kalbarri National Park enjoying spectacular scenery of the Murchison River Gorges, an area renowned for native wildflowers. Continue to the World Heritage Area of Shark Bay. Overnight: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, overlooking the beach where "wild" dolphins come into shore.

Day 3 Fri. Monkey Mia Dolphins (BD)
Experience the magic of interacting with "wild" dolphins as they come into shore (subject to appearance). Learn about stromatolites, the world's oldest known living organism at Hamelin Pool. Overnight: Geraldton, Mercure Inn.

Day 4 Sat. Pinnacles, Perth (B)
Our drive today takes us into Nambung National Park. Stroll through the "Pinnacles" landscape, unusual limestone pillars rising from the desert. Gather with your crew and new friends tonight for special farewell drinks, with our compliments.

Prices Per Person

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Western Wildflower Wonderland
From Perth - 8 Days

Tour Code: WA08

What's included?

Departure Dates

7/Jan/2001, 21/Jan/2001, 11/Feb/2001, 4/Mar/2001, 25/Mar/2001, 8/Apr/2001, 29/Apr/2001, 20/May/2001, 10/Jun/2001, 22/Jul/2001, 12/Aug/2001, 19/Aug/2001, 25/Aug/2001, 26/Aug/2001, 2/Sep/2001, 8/Sep/2001, 9/Sep/2001, 16/Sep/2001, 22/Sep/2001, 23/Sep/2001, 30/Sep/2001, 6/Oct/2001, 7/Oct/2001, 14/Oct/2001, 21/Oct/2001, 28/Oct/2001, 4/Nov/2001, 11/Nov/2001

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Mon. Wave Rock, Hyden (BD)
Join tour in Perth at 8.00 am. Cross the Darling Ranges this morning to York and visit the Motor Museum. Continue to Hyden where we stop to view the natural wonder of Wave Rock, standing 50 feet above the surrounding bushland. Overnight: Hyden, Wave Rock Hotel.

Day 2 Tue. Gold Country (BD)
Our drive today takes us into the rich goldfields of Western Australia. Kalgoorlie is known as "City of Gold", producing more than half of the gold mined in Australia. On arrival, visit the Two-Up School. Overnight: Kalgoorlie, Mercure Inn Overland.

Day 3 Wed. Golden Mile, Esperance (BD)
Tour the famous "Golden Mile", reputed to be the richest square mile in the world. Enjoy an underground tour of Hannan's North Goldmine before travelling on through the nickel-mining town of Kambalda and Norseman. Overnight: Esperance, Bay of Isles Motel.

Day 4 Thur. Esperance, Albany (BD)
Take in the sights of Esperance including Twilight Bay and the unique pink saltwater lake. Drive on through the rugged Stirling Range to Albany. Overnight: Albany, The Esplanade or Quality Inn Motel.

Day 5 Fri. Albany, Mt. Romance (BD) Visit Mt. Romance, an exotic plant and emu farm which produces a range of bodycare products. In the afternoon, take the Tree Top Walk through the Tinglewood forest. Overnight: Pemberton, Karri Valley Resort.

Day 6 Sat. Pemberton, Margaret River (BD)
Ride the Pemberton Tramway, travelling deep into the karri forest over wooden trestle bridges before sampling award-winning wines at Leeuwin Estate Winery. Overnight: Margaret River, Freycinet Inn for 2 nights.Tonight is our millennium celebration. Gather with your crew and fellow travellers for a drink with our compliments.

Day 7 Sun. Cape Leeuwin (B)
Travel to Cape Leeuwin, where the Southern and Indian oceans meet. Enjoy a guided tour of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse then to the Jewel Cave, filled with exquisite limestone formations.

Day 8 Mon. Busselton, Perth (BD)
Follow the coastline to Busselton and visit the Bunyip Craft Centre. Tour Bunbury making a stop at Boulter's Heights for views over the city. Passengers depart 5.30 pm.

Prices Per Person

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Western Wildflower Wonderland
From Perth - 15 Days

Tour Code: WA15

What's included?

Departure Dates

7/Jan/2001, 21/Jan/2001, 11/Feb/2001, 4/Mar/2001, 25/Mar/2001, 8/Apr/2001, 29/Apr/2001, 20/May/2001, 10/Jun/2001, 22/Jul/2001, 12/Aug/2001, 19/Aug/2001, 25/Aug/2001, 26/Aug/2001, 2/Sep/2001, 8/Sep/2001, 9/Sep/2001, 16/Sep/2001, 22/Sep/2001, 23/Sep/2001, 30/Sep/2001, 6/Oct/2001, 7/Oct/2001, 14/Oct/2001, 21/Oct/2001, 28/Oct/2001, 4/Nov/2001, 11/Nov/2001

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Sun. Perth, Swan River Cruise
Welcomed on arrival Perth Airport. Afternoon cruise on the Swan River, past the mansions of Perth's exclusive riverside suburbs. Join your crew and fellow travellers tonight for welcome drinks. Overnight: Novotel Langley Perth.

Day 2 Mon. Wave Rock, Hyden (BD)
Cross the Darling Ranges this morning to York and visit the Motor Museum. Continue to Hyden where we stop to view the natural wonder of Wave Rock, standing 50 feet above the surrounding bushland. Overnight: Hyden, Wave Rock Hotel.

Day 3 Tue. Gold Country (BD)
Our drive today takes us into the rich goldfields of Western Australia. Kalgoorlie is known as "City of Gold", producing more than half of the gold mined in Australia. On arrival, visit the Two-Up School. Overnight: Kalgoorlie, Mercure Inn Overland.

Day 4 Wed. Golden Mile, Esperance (BD)
Tour the famous "Golden Mile", reputed to be the richest square mile in the world. Enjoy an underground tour of Hannan's North Goldmine before travelling on through the nickel-mining town of Kambalda and Norseman. Overnight: Esperance, Bay of Isles Motel.

Day 5 Thur. Esperance, Albany (BD)
Take in the sights of Esperance including Twilight Bay and the unique pink saltwater lake. Drive on through the rugged Stirling Range to Albany. Overnight: Albany, The Esplanade or Quality Inn Motel.

Day 6 Fri. Albany, Mt. Romance (BD) Visit Mt. Romance, an exotic plant and emu farm which produces a range of bodycare products. In the afternoon, take the Tree Top Walk through the Tinglewood forest. Overnight: Pemberton, Karri Valley Resort.

Day 7 Sat. Pemberton, Margaret River (BD)
Ride the Pemberton Tramway, travelling deep into the karri forest over wooden trestle bridges before sampling award-winning wines at Leeuwin Estate Winery. Overnight: Margaret River, Freycinet Inn for 2 nights.Tonight is our millennium celebration. Gather with your crew and fellow travellers for a drink with our compliments.

Day 8 Sun. Cape Leeuwin (B)
Travel to Cape Leeuwin, where the Southern and Indian oceans meet. Enjoy a guided tour of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse then to the Jewel Cave, filled with exquisite limestone formations.

Day 9 Mon. Busselton, Perth (BD)
Follow the coastline to Busselton and visit the Bunyip Craft Centre. Tour Bunbury making a stop at Boulter's Heights for views over the city. Overnight: Novotel Langley Perth for 2 nights.

Day 10 Tue. Perth, Fremantle (B)
Take in the panorama of Perth and the Swan River from Kings Park, 1000 acres of delightful gardens. Capture the charm of historic Fremantle.

Day 11 Wed. New Norcia, Kalbarri (BD)
Visit the township of New Norcia, touched with the influence of early Spanish Benedictine Monks. See the monastery, church, and visit the museum. Overnight: Kalbarri, Palm Resort.

Day 12 Thur. Kalbarri National Park (BD)
Tour Kalbarri National Park enjoying spectacular scenery of the Murchison River Gorges, an area renowned for native wildflowers. Continue to the World Heritage Area of Shark Bay. Overnight: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, overlooking the beach where "wild" dolphins come into shore.

Day 13 Fri. Monkey Mia Dolphins (BD)
Experience the magic of interacting with "wild" dolphins as they come into shore (subject to appearance). Learn about stromatolites, the world's oldest known living organism at Hamelin Pool. Overnight: Geraldton, Mercure Inn.

Day 14 Sat. Pinnacles, Perth (B)
Our drive today takes us into Nambung National Park. Stroll through the "Pinnacles" landscape, unusual limestone pillars rising from the desert. Gather with your crew and new friends tonight for special farewell drinks, with our compliments. Overnight: Perth, Novotel Langley Perth.

Day 15 Sun. Perth (B)
Free time before transfer to Perth Airport.

Prices Per Person

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West Coast & Top End
Perth to Darwin - 19 Days

Tour Code: TWN19

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

May. 21 / Jun. 14*/ Jul. 05 / Aug. 02, 09, 30* / Sep. 23* / Oct. 25

Departure Dates 2002

May. 30 / Jun. 13 / Jul. 04 / Aug. 01, 08, 29 / Sep. 22 / Oct. 24

* Touring order on these departure dates may change although all inclusions will stay the same.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Thu. Arrive Perth (D)
You will be met upon arrival at Perth Airport and transferred to your local hotel. The remainder of the day is free. Overnight Perth, Hotel Ibis for 2 nights.

Day 2 Fri. Perth Sightseeing (B)
Our day starts with a visit to the beautiful Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens. The remainder of the day ifs free to discover Perth.

Day 3 Sat. Namburg National Park, The Pinnacles, Geraldton (BD)
We travel to Namburg National Park, home of the Pinnacles and see the strange windswept trees of Greenough Flats. Overnight Geraldton, Mercure Inn Wintersun for 1 night.

Day 4 Sun. Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay (BD)
Stop at Hawk's Head Lookout in Kalbarri Park, to enjoy views over the Murchison River. Continue to Shark Bay World Heritage Park and Shell Beach. Overnight Shark Bay, Nanga Bay Resort for 1 night.

Day 5 Mon. Monkey Mia Dolphins, Stromatolites, Carnarvon (BD)
Spend time with the Monkey Mia Dolphins (subject to appearance.) See the stromatolites, then to Carnarvon. Overnight Carnarvon, Gateway Inn for 1 night.

Day 6 Tue. Coral Bay Ningaloo Reef (BD)
We cross the Tropic of Capricorn and on to Coral Bay. You might take a cruise over the coral reefs (at own expense) before we continue to Exmouth. Overnight Exmouth, Pot Shot Hotel for 1 night.

Day 7 Wed. Pilbara, Tom Price (BD)
Today sees us enter the mineral rich Pilbara region with its rich red earth and yellow spinifex. Overnight Tom Price, Karijini Lodge for 2 nights.

Day 8 Thu. Iron Ore Mine Tour (B)
This morning, take a guided tour of the open cut iron ore mining operation at Tom Price, then visit Hamersley Gorge. The remainder of the day is free.

Day 9 Fri. Karijini National Park (BD)
See Karijini (Hamersley Range) National Park, visit Oxer's Lookout, then continue to Port Hedland. Overnight Port Hedland, Mercure Inn Airport for 1 night.

Day 10 Sat. Port Hedland, Broome (BD)
North to Broome flanked by Eighty Mile Beach to the west and the Great Sandy Desert to the east. Overnight Broome, Tropicana Inn for 2 nights.

Day 11 Sun. Broome Sightseeing (B)
Tour this once bustling pearling capital seeing Chinatown and Streeters Jetty. The afternoon is free.

Day 12 Mon. Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek National Park, Fitzroy Crossing (BD)
Visit to Boab Prison Tree en route to Derby, then visit Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek National Partk, where a tunnel passes through the range. Overnight Fitzroy Crossing, Fitzroy River Lodge for 1 night.

Day 13 Tue. Geikie Gorge Cruise (BD)
Cruise Geikie Gorge on the Fitzroy River, then to Halls Creek and the "China Wall" quartz formation. Overnight Halls Creek, Kimberley Hotel for 1 night.

Day 14 Wed. Halls Creek, Kununurra (BD)
We take a tour of the irrigation area and agricultural farms of the Ord River Scheme. Overnight Kununurra, Mercure Inn for 2 nights.

Day 15 Thu. Bungle Bungle, Wyndham (B)
Free morning. You might take a flight over the Bungle Bungles (at own expense.) Later, we visit Wyndham.

Day 16 Fri. Ord River Cruise, Katherine (BD)
Take a cruise on the Ord River, see Lake Argyle and continue on into the Northern Territory and to Katherine. Overnight Katherine, Frontier Katherine Hotel for 1 night.

Day 17 Sat. Katherine Gorge Cruise, Kakadu National Park (B)
With as local guide, cruise through Katherine Gorge, then continue on to Kakadu National Park. Overnight Kakadu, Kakadu Resort for 1 night.

Day 18 Sun. Wildlife Cruise, Darwin (BD)
Cruise Yellow Water Billabong and learn of the flora and fauna in this magnificent area then continue on to Darwin. Overnight Darwin, Centra Darwin

Day 19 Mon. Darwin Sightseeing (B)
A morning sightseeing tour of Darwin brings to a close this tour, which ends at midday.

Prices Per Person

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Monkey Mia Adventure
Perth to Perth - 5 Days

Tour Code: WPMP

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Jan 4 (Thu) / Feb 5 / Mar 5, 26 / Apr 30 / May 28 / Jul 2, 30 / Aug 13, 20, 22 (Wed), 27 / Sep 3, 10, 17, 19 (Wed), 24 / Oct 1,3 (Wed), 8, 15,17 (Wed), 22,29,31 (Wed) / Nov 5,7 (Wed), 19

Departure Dates 2002

Jan 7 / Feb 4 / Mar 4, 25 / Apr 29 / May 27 / Jul 1, 29 / Aug 12, 19, 26 / Sep 2, 9, 16, 18 (Wed), 23, 30 / Oct 2 (Wed), 7, 14, 16 (Wed), 21, 28,30 (Wed) / Nov 4, 18

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Mon: Perth
Join your tour at the Mercure Hotel at 8.00am. Travel to New Norcia, a small settlement revolving around the Benedictine Monastery. Originally established by Spanish monks in 1846, it is now a museum which contains many priceless antiques and paintings from Spain. Visit a wildflower farm, with a unique collection of Western Australian wildflowers. See how these flowers are pressed for export. Continue through the crayfishing town of Dongara and the Hamlet of Greenough, where we see unique wind-blown trees with horizontal trunks. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director. Accommodation: Kalbarri Palm Resort, Kalbarri. (D)

Day 2 Tue: Shark Bay
This morning we venture to Kalbarri National Park, which in season is blanketed with beautiful wildflowers. Over 800 species can be found in the Park. View the spectacular scenery of Murchison River Gorge from the vantage point of Hawks Head Lookout. The red and cream sandstone walls of the gorge were formed 400 million years ago. Visit Red Bluff Lookout where layers of sandstone form cliffs which loom over the crashing Indian Ocean. See some of the spectacular natural bridges, gorges and bluffs of Kalbarri. This afternoon we continue to the township of Denham en route to Monkey Mia. Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 nights. (BD)

Day 3 Wed: Monkey Mia
Early this morning watch for the famous Bottlenose Dolphins that swim into shore, an unforgettable experience! Note: As dolphins are wild their appearance cannot be guaranteed. The rest of the day is at leisure. You can visit the new Visitor Centre with informative and interactive displays or take an optional sailing cruise to spot dugong and dolphins. (BD)

Day 4 Thu: Shell Beach
Travel along the Shark Bay coast to visit Shell Beach, one of only two in the world, formed from billions of shells up to ten metres deep. Marvel at the gleaming white sand beaches and rich blue waters surrounding the Peron Peninsula. Travel to Hamelin Pool to see the world's best known colony of Stromatolites, dating back to the beginning of life on earth. Continue south along the North West Coastal Highway to Geraldton. Accommodation: Mercure Inn, Geraldton. (BD)

Day 5 Fri: The Pinnacles - Perth
Today venture into Nambung National Park, home of the mystical Pinnacles, pillars formed by calcified limestone. Experience the eerie atmosphere as you walk through these strange, wind-eroded rock formations in a landscape of desert and white beaches. Continue to Perth, where you tour concludes at approximately 4.30pm. (B)

Prices Per Person

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Southern Wonders
Perth to Perth - 8 Days

Tour Code: WPPE

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Jan 28 / Feb 25 / Mar 18 / Apr 22 / May 20 / Jun 24 / Jul 22 / Aug 5, 12, 14 (Tue),19, 26 / Sep 2, 9, 11 (Tue), 16,23, 25 (Tue), 30 29 / Oct 7, 9 (Tue), 14, 21,23 (Tue), 28,30 (Tue) / Nov 11 / Dec 30

Departure Dates 2002

Jan 27 / Feb 24 / Mar 17 / Apr 21 / May 19 / Jun 23 / Jul 21 / Aug 4, 11, 18, 25 / Sep 1, 8, 10 (Tue), 15,22, 24 (Tue) / Oct 6, 8 (Tue), 13, 20,22 (Tue), 27 / Nov 10 / Dec 29

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Sun: Margaret River
Your tour commences at 8.30am from the Mercure Hotel in Perth. Today journey south, stopping at Australind to see the smallest church in Western Australia. Travel to Margaret River, one of Australia's premier wine growing regions and sample local wines at Leeuwin Estate. Visit Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet at the most south westerly point of Australia. Tonight enjoy dinner and a welcome drink with your Tour Director. Accommodation: Freycinet Inn, Margaret River. (D)

Day 2 Mon: Valley of the Giants
Continue south to Pemberton where we visit the enormous Gloucester Tree. At 60 metres, the tower it is the tallest fire lookout in the world. The brave can even climb to the top, up 153 rungs, to witness the panoramic vistas over the forest. Journey through the Valley of the Giants where Karri, Jarrah and Tinglewood trees tower majestically over the wildflower country. Enjoy afternoon tea at the Mount Romance Sandalwood Factory, where you see new medicines being developed and smell extracts destined for perfume blending. Accommodation: Esplanade Hotel, Albany,2 nights. (BD)

Day 3 Tue: Albany
Today we enjoy a guided tour of historic Albany, the site of the first settlement in Western Australia. Many of the historic buildings have been meticulously restored. Admire the coastal landscape from the impressive granite formations of The Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park. Visit Australia's last whaling station, a fascinating insight into the regions seafaring past. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (BD)

Day 4 Wed: Esperance
Travel to Bluff Knoll Lookout and onwards into the Stirling Ranges. See many of the 7,000 wildflower species indigenous to Western Australia (seasonal). At Esperance see the famous Pink Lake, a remarkable natural phenomenon caused by salt-tolerant algae. Accommodation: Bay of Isles Motel, Esperance, 2 nights. (BD)

Day 5 Thu: Bay of Isles
Cruise today amongst the beautiful islands of Recherche Archipelago, viewing wildlife in their natural environment including sea lions, seals, sea birds and much more. Go ashore on beautiful Woody Island Nature Reserve where you can enjoy birdwatching or join in a short guided walk. Later tour Cape Le Grand National Park, with its magnificent coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. (B)

Day 6 Fri: Kalgoorlie Gold Mine
Travel through the mining towns of Norseman and Kambalda. In Kalgoorlie, encounter the thrill of an underground tour of Hannans North Historic Mining Reserve. Travel deep below the earth's surface for a look at how early pioneers searched for and worked the gold. This afternoon experience the famous Bush Two Up School, where many a miner's fortune has been lost on the toss of a coin. Accommodation: Mercure Inn Overland, Kalgoorlie. (BD)

Day 7 Sat: Wave Rock
Morning visit to the old ghost town of Coolgardie where some 500,000 ounces of alluvial gold were found. Continue to Wave Rock, a spectacular rock formation resembling a giant wave. Accommodation: Wave Rock Hotel, Hyden. (BD)

Day 8 Sun: York - Perth
Visit Western Australia's most historic inland town, York, complete with charming heritage buildings, restored to their original splendour. This afternoon tour Fremantle, renowned for its cafes, museums and markets. Your tour concludes on arrival in Perth at approximately 3.00pm. (B)

Prices Per Person

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Grand Western Discovery
Darwin to Broome - 9 Days

Tour Code: WDB/WBD

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Apr 11*, 24 / May 23* / Jun 5, 16 (Sat), 19,25* (Mon), 30 (Sat) / Jul 3, 4*, 7 (Sat),9* (Mon),16* (Mon), 17,18*, 21 (Sat),24, 28 (Sat),30* (Mon) / Aug 6* (Mon), 8*,11 (Sat), 14, 15*,18 (Sat), 20* (Mon),22*, 30 (Thu) / Sep 1 (Sat), 10* (Mon), 12*, 28* (Fri) / Oct 11 (Thu)

Departure Dates 2002

Apr 10*, 23 / May 22* / Jun 4, 15 (Sat), 18, 24* (Mon), 29 (Sat) / Jul 2, 3*, 6 (Sat), 8* (Mon),15* (Mon), 16, 17*20 (Sat), 23, 27 (Sat), 29* (Mon),31* / Aug 5* (Mon), 10 (Sat),13, 14*, 17 (Sat), 19* (Mon), 21*,29 (Thu), 31 (Sat) / Sep 9* (Mon), 11*, 27*

*These tours operate from Broome to Darwin (Tour Code: WBD).

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Tue: Arrive Darwin
You will be met on arrival at Darwin Airport and transferred to your hotel (flights prior to 2.30pm, airfare not included). This afternoon enjoy a tour of the city. Visit the Museum of Arts and Science and East Point Reserve, where we gain an insight to Darwin's wartime history. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink to meet your Tour Director and travelling companions. Accommodation: Rydges Plaza, Darwin. (D)

Day 2 Wed: Katherine Gorge Cruise
Head south along the Stuart Highway towards Katherine. Stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, a site dedicated to the WWII air raids on Darwin. Continue past the gold mining town of Pine Creek. This afternoon cruise through Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Marvel at the sheer cliffs as they tower above you. Accommodation: Paraway Motel, Katherine. (BD)

Day 3 Thu: Ord River Adventure Cruise
Drive across vast cattle stations into Western Australia. Our travels take us across the mighty Victoria River and into the East Kimberley region. See Lake Argyle, Australia's largest man-made lake with a capacity nine times that of Sydney Harbour. Enjoy your cruise on the majestic Ord River, from Lake Argyle to Kununurra. Watch out for wildlife amongst the riverside vegetation. Accommodation: Country Club Hotel, Kununurra, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 4 Fri: Kununurra Sightseeing
Early this morning you have the opportunity to take an optional two hour flight over the Bungle Bungle Range. After breakfast enjoy a tour of Kununurra. See the results of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Visit Hidden Valley (Mirima) National Park, adjacent to Kununurra, which is often described as a mini Bungle Bungle. Walk amongst these rugged sandstone hills, said to be 300 million years old. (BD)

Day 5 Sat: El Questro Wilderness Park
Travel along the Gibb River Road to El Questro Wilderness Park. Cruise through Chamberlain Gorge, a fresh waterhole abounded by tropical vegetation. Free time at the Resort this afternoon to sit by the pool or to hike into Emma Gorge for a refreshing swim in the waterhole. Accommodation: Emma Gorge Resort, stay in unique tented cabins, power and linen provided, share facilities. (BD)

Day 6 Sun: Argyle Diamond Mine
Today we visit the Argyle Diamond Mine which produces one third of the world's diamonds annually. A local guide will join us for a behind the scenes look at the diamond mining process. Continue south to Halls Creek, site of Western Australia's first gold discovery for a short break before continuing on to Fitzroy Crossing. Accommodation: Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing. (BLD)

Day 7 Mon: Geikie Gorge Cruise - Broome
Geikie Gorge has been formed by the waters of the Fitzroy River tunnelling its way through the Napier Range. This gorge is part of the ancient Devonian reef, over 350 million years old, which has risen above the flat plains to create a masterpiece of natural beauty. Cruise through the gorge watching for crocodiles and sawfish. Travel to the port of Derby and see the famous Boab Prison Tree, before continuing to the pearling centre of Broome. See Chinatown and Streeters Jetty where pearling luggers unload their harvest of oysters. 12 day passengers (Tour Code: WBPP) are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Accommodation: Cable Beach Inter-Continental Resort, Broome, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 8 Tue: Broome at leisure
Enjoy a day at leisure exploring this tropical hideaway. See your Tour Director for the options available. Perhaps take a spectacular scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago or ride a camel at sunset on the beach. Alternatively, you may prefer to enjoy the facilities the Resort has to offer. (B)

Day 9 Wed: Port Hedland
Passengers depart today after breakfast.

Prices Per Person

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Grand Western Discovery
12 or 19 Days

Tour Code: WDPP/WPPD, WBPP/WPPB

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Apr 1*, 24 / May 13* / Jun 5, 19, 24* / Jul 3, 8*, 17, 24, 29* / Aug 5*, 12*, 14,18 (Sat), 30 (Thu) / Sep 2*, 18* (Tue) / Oct 11 (Thu)

Departure Dates 2002

Apr 1*, 23 / May 13* / Jun 4, 18, 24* / Jul 2, 8*, 16, 22*, 23 / Aug 5*, 12*, 13,17 (Sat), 29 (Thu) / Sep 2*, 18* (Wed)

*These tours operate from Perth to Darwin (Tour Code: WPPD).

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Tue: Arrive Darwin (Tour WDPP starts here)
You will be met on arrival at Darwin Airport and transferred to your hotel (flights prior to 2.30pm, airfare not included). This afternoon enjoy a tour of the city. Visit the Museum of Arts and Science and East Point Reserve, where we gain an insight to Darwin's wartime history. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink to meet your Tour Director and travelling companions. Accommodation: Rydges Plaza, Darwin. (D)

Day 2 Wed: Katherine Gorge Cruise
Head south along the Stuart Highway towards Katherine. Stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, a site dedicated to the WWII air raids on Darwin. Continue past the gold mining town of Pine Creek. This afternoon cruise through Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Marvel at the sheer cliffs as they tower above you. Accommodation: Paraway Motel, Katherine. (BD)

Day 3 Thu: Ord River Adventure Cruise
Drive across vast cattle stations into Western Australia. Our travels take us across the mighty Victoria River and into the East Kimberley region. See Lake Argyle, Australia's largest man-made lake with a capacity nine times that of Sydney Harbour. Enjoy your cruise on the majestic Ord River, from Lake Argyle to Kununurra. Watch out for wildlife amongst the riverside vegetation. Accommodation: Country Club Hotel, Kununurra, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 4 Fri: Kununurra Sightseeing
Early this morning you have the opportunity to take an optional two hour flight over the Bungle Bungle Range. After breakfast enjoy a tour of Kununurra. See the results of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Visit Hidden Valley (Mirima) National Park, adjacent to Kununurra, which is often described as a mini Bungle Bungle. Walk amongst these rugged sandstone hills, said to be 300 million years old. (BD)

Day 5 Sat: El Questro Wilderness Park
Travel along the Gibb River Road to El Questro Wilderness Park. Cruise through Chamberlain Gorge, a fresh waterhole abounded by tropical vegetation. Free time at the Resort this afternoon to sit by the pool or to hike into Emma Gorge for a refreshing swim in the waterhole. Accommodation: Emma Gorge Resort, stay in unique tented cabins, power and linen provided, share facilities. (BD)

Day 6 Sun: Argyle Diamond Mine
Today we visit the Argyle Diamond Mine which produces one third of the world's diamonds annually. A local guide will join us for a behind the scenes look at the diamond mining process. Continue south to Halls Creek, site of Western Australia's first gold discovery for a short break before continuing on to Fitzroy Crossing. Accommodation: Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing. (BLD)

Day 7 Mon: Geikie Gorge Cruise - Broome (Tour WBPP starts here)
Geikie Gorge has been formed by the waters of the Fitzroy River tunnelling its way through the Napier Range. This gorge is part of the ancient Devonian reef, over 350 million years old, which has risen above the flat plains to create a masterpiece of natural beauty. Cruise through the gorge watching for crocodiles and sawfish. Travel to the port of Derby and see the famous Boab Prison Tree, before continuing to the pearling centre of Broome. See Chinatown and Streeters Jetty where pearling luggers unload their harvest of oysters. 12 day passengers (Tour Code: WBPP) are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Accommodation: Cable Beach Inter-Continental Resort, Broome, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 8 Tue: Broome at leisure
Enjoy a day at leisure exploring this tropical hideaway. See your Tour Director for the options available. Perhaps take a spectacular scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago or ride a camel at sunset on the beach. Alternatively, you may prefer to enjoy the facilities the Resort has to offer. (B)

Day 9 Wed: Port Hedland
Travel parallel to the 80 Mile Beach and skirt the Great Sandy Desert. Continue to Port Hedland, a major shipping outlet for the mineral rich Pilbara region. Accommodation: Mercure Inn, Port Hedland. (BD)

Day 10 Thu: Tom Price
Travel from Port Hedland to the iron ore mining town of Tom Price. Situated on the edge of the Hamersley Range, Tom Price is surrounded by hills and dominated by Mt. Nameless. Accommodation: Karijini Lodge, Tom Price, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 11 Fri: Karijini National Park
Journey into Karijini National Park, the second largest park in Western Australia. Witness the startling landscape of spectacular gorges, waterfalls and rock pools that have been created by millions of years of erosion. This scenery provides a striking contrast to the stark red of the Pilbara landscape. Enjoy a guided tour of the open cut iron ore mine in Tom Price. This is a fascinating experience, providing an informative insight into the mining industry. (BLD)

Day 12 Sat: North West Cape
Join the North West Coastal Highway en route to Exmouth, where rugged ranges are contrasted by the ocean. Exmouth is situated on the boundary of Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Marine Park. Accommodation: Potshot Hotel Resort, Exmouth, 2 nights. (BLD)

Day 13 Sun: Cape Range National Park
Visit the Cape Range National Park, which incorporates the shoreline of the Ningaloo Marine Park. Opportunities to see kangaroos and wildlife abound as we travel through the National Park. See the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse where humpback whales may be spotted (most likely between May and November). (BL)

Day 14 Mon: Ningaloo Reef Cruise
Join a glass bottom boat cruise over the Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia's largest coral reef. See many species of coral and the marinelife that inhabit these waters. Visit Carnarvon on the banks of the normally dry Gascoyne River. Many bananas and tropical fruits are grown here. At Hamelin Pool see ancient stromatolites, the world's oldest living fossils. Afternoon travel along the Peron Peninsula with its idyllic white sand and blue water scenery. Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 nights. (BD)

Day 15 Tue: Monkey Mia – Dolphins
Early this morning watch for the famous Bottlenose Dolphins that swim into shore, an unforgettable experience! Note: As dolphins are wild their appearance cannot be guaranteed. The rest of the day is at leisure. You can visit the new Visitor Centre with informative and interactive displays or take an optional sailing cruise to spot dugong and dolphins. (BD)

Day 16 Wed: Kalbarri - Geraldton
Travel through Kalbarri National Park visiting Hawks Head Lookout for breathtaking views of the Murchison River Gorge. See the beautiful wildflowers for which the region is renowned (seasonal). Continue to Geraldton and enjoy a tour of the sights of the town. Accommodation: Mercure Inn, Geraldton. (BD)

Day 17 Thu: The Pinnacles - Perth
Tour to Nambung National Park, where we view the spectacular Pinnacles, wind eroded limestone formations. See these spires standing tall in this stark windswept desert. Continue to the picturesque city of Perth. Accommodation: Novotel Langley, Perth, 2 nights. (BL)

Day 18 Fri: Perth Sightseeing
After a leisurely breakfast depart our hotel for a guided tour of the highlights of Perth. Drive alongside the scenic Swan River, a popular area with water sport enthusiasts. Visit Kings Park, a natural bushland area covering over 400 hectares. View the gardens and city skyline. The afternoon is free for you to further enjoy this beautiful city, river and parklands. 12 day passengers (Tour Code: WBPP) conclude tour today. (BD)

Day 19 Sat: Depart Perth
Free time for shopping or sightseeing before being transferred to the airport for onward flights. (B)

Prices Per Person

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