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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, and Cairns are best visited in the Southern Hemisphere winter (June, July, August). The opposite applies for southern regions like Tasmania and Victoria, which can get particularly cold in winter—January and 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 (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 to visit the fascinating Horizontal Falls, a series of tidal waterfalls in Talbot Bay considered 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 three 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.

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.

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.

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.

Byron Bay
Map of The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days
The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days

Experience the best of Australia's less-visited yet beautiful East Coast. This includes highlights of Queensland, like the eclectic metropolis of Brisbane and the endless beaches and shimmering skyscrapers of the Gold Coast. You'll also take day trips to charming Byron Bay, visit a koala sanctuary, and go off-the-beaten path on self-drive road trips to rainforest-covered national parks.

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, 10 days is ideal for visiting four different areas. However, if you're strapped for time, you can explore two regions in five days or up to...

Australia Travel Advice

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

Australia Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
4.9
(7)
· Upscale
Peninsula Boutique Hotel, an adults-only property, offers a boutique-style experience overlooking 4 Mile Beach. Nestled at the quiet end of Macrossan and Esplanade Streets, the hotel allows you to enjoy views of the Coral Sea and is within a 2-minute walk from bars, shops, and restaurants....
Photo courtesy of Sails in the Desert
Uluru
Sails In The Desert
4.9
(7)
· Upscale
You'll find Sails in the Desert within the town's Ayers Rock Resort, a compilation of several properties. Like most of the hotels here, a 30-minute drive gets you to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta, important sites for Australia's cultural heritage. Here, you can immerse yourself in...
Photo courtesy of Laneways Ovolo
Melbourne
Laneways by Ovolo
5.0
(5)
· Upscale
You'll find Laneways by Ovolo close to Melbourne's thriving theater district, avant-garde galleries, and bustling boutiques—allowing for an easy immersion into the city's rich art and culture scene. As a guest at Laneways by Ovolo, you'll be just a short walk from The Princess Theatre, Parliament...

Best Experiences in Australia

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Diving
Palm Cove
Catamaran Excursion to the Great Barrier Reef
4.8
(8)
1 day
·
Group tour
Discover the Great Barrier Reef with this full-day cruise on a high-speed catamaran, where you'll learn about the world's largest coral reef from onboard experts and get to experience it for yourself with snorkeling and scuba diving. The journey begins in Cairns, where you'll meet the expert crew...
Quicksilver Cruises
Port Douglas
Catamaran Cruise + Water Activities in the Outer Great Barrier Reef
4.8
(4)
1 day
·
Group tour
Experience the rich underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef on this full-day guided catamaran cruise to the Agincourt Reef. The catamaran will depart from Port Douglas to take you to this fantastic ecosystem, which you can view from the vessel's underwater observatory. Throughout the day, you...
Get up close with koalas
Melbourne
Excursion to Phillip Island
4.6
(5)
12 hours
·
Private
Embark on an afternoon journey from Melbourne to Phillip Island, known globally for its extraordinary Penguin Parade. For this excursion, it's common to start at Cape Woolamai, a hotspot for local surfers, then continue to the Koala Conservation Centre for an up-close encounter with Australia's...

Our Latest Australia Content

See the smiling quokka, the "world's happiest animal," on Rottnest Island
Australia FAQ

Australia is a bucket-list destination for many; it's far and it's massive, offering remarkable cultural and geographical diversity, from spectacular beaches, wet rainforests, and iconic landmarks to unique wildlife, world-class cities, and remote desert hamlets. Naturally, travelers have questions—"Is it safe?" "What's the food like?" or "How long should I spend?" This guide answers these and more of the most frequently asked questions, helping you to plan for a memorable Australian adventure.

Kangaroos are a common sight on a 16-day tour through Australia
Map of 16 Days in Australia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
16 Days in Australia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Sixteen days in Australia is an excellent amount of time to experience the highlights and lesser-visited sights of two or three distinct regions. A classic tour introduces you to the top sights of Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and their scenic surroundings, while an east coast road trip gives you plenty of opportunities to snorkel, cruise, kayak, and surf. Another superb option, especially for nature-loving travelers, is to split your time between the Great Barrier Reef, the Northern Territory, and the Australian outback.

Pick up your car in Alice Springs and enjoy a free afternoon to explore
Map of Outback Road Trip Adventure: Sydney, Alice Springs & Uluru - 8 Days
Outback Road Trip Adventure: Sydney, Alice Springs & Uluru - 8 Days

Experience the best of Australia's rugged outback and biggest city with this eight-day bucket-list itinerary. The fun starts in cosmopolitan Sydney, where you'll explore iconic sights, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and walk the coastal Bondi to Coogee trail. Then, it's time to fly to the heart of Australia, landing in Alice Springs. You'll take a road trip across the outback, driving the rustic Mereenie Loop, hiking Kings Canyon, seeing Kata Tjuta, and marveling at the magnificent Uluru monolith.

Australia Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Australia
Travel specialist Liz Neal
active 12 hours ago

Liz Neal

I have been involved in the travel industry since my first job out of college, working for hotels, airlines and travel companies which allow me to know the industry from all sides. I approach my...

read more...
Travel specialist Vicky Steinhardt
active 4 hours ago

Vicky Steinhardt

Hey there! I'm Vicky, and travel is my passion. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have dedicated my entire career to the travel industry. Melbourne-born, my journey led me to live in the...

read more...
Travel specialist Paula Adams
active 5 days ago

Paula Adams

I grew up in a very small rural town called, Humpty Doo which is 30 minutes outside of the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory. I lived the true outback life with wallabies jumping in my...

read more...
Travel specialist Connie Campos
active 7 days 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...

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Trip Reviews for Australia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Fantastic trip to Australia
Australia | Jun 3 - Jun 15, 2025

S
Susie D.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2025
Kimkim and our specialist, Tammy, assisted with arranging our 2-week trip to the Queensland area of Australia. It was a grandma and 12-year-old granddaughter trip and couldn’t have been better! Everything was wonderful: the accommodations, the itinerary pacing, the activities and tours, the transportation were all top notch. As a first time visitor to the country, I would never have been able to plan such a wonderful trip., especially including activities that were meaningful for both of us.... Read more

Kimkim and our specialist, Tammy, assisted with arranging our 2-week trip to the Queensland area of Australia. It was a grandma and 12-year-old granddaughter trip and couldn’t have been better! Everything was wonderful: the accommodations, the itinerary pacing, the activities and tours, the transportation were all top notch. As a first time visitor to the country, I would never have been able to plan such a wonderful trip., especially including activities that were meaningful for both of us. The assistance we received was professional, responsive, and invaluable. Highly recommend this service.

Hotel Reviews
Mandalay Luxury Beachfront Apartments
Port Douglas

We were here for 5 nights, visiting the Great Barrier Reef and tours of the Daintree. It was an amazing time and nice to be in an apartment with the many amenities provided - washer/dryer, full and well stocked kitchen, a short walk to 4 Mile Beach, a bit longer walk to downtown Port Douglas, a private patio, 2 pools, housekeeping service. This would be a great place for a large family reunion. The only difficulty was the stair flights up to our 3rd floor place with heavy luggage, no elevators. Also , we arrived in the evening and there was no one on duty. We were left our key cards and very detailed directions to our room (and an upgrade), which was fine, just not what I expected. Staff during the day were very helpful and housekeeping was very friendly and helpful. I hope to go back!

Authenticity & Character
Location
The proximity to the beach couldn’t be better.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Having a washer and dryer was great. Pool and grounds were well tended and gorgeous.
Tangalooma Island Resort
Moreton Island

This is a sprawling complex, probably the only place to stay on this section of the island. Rooms are a little worn but the location is stunning. They did a nice job with limited, kid-friendly food. The activities available there are plentiful and all our guides were wonderful. The dolphin feeding is very well run and such a unique experience. We loved our stay there - didn’t want to leave.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hyatt Regency Brisbane
Brisbane

Great location, excellent service, clean rooms, comfy beds, beautiful views, great breakfast, stunning pool. Loved it all!

Authenticity & Character
One of our drivers told us it was the location the Beatles stayed in when they came to Australia in the 60’s. It’s certainly been renovated/rebuilt since then and is a modern building with all the conveniencesone would ever need.
Location
Views of the river, gorgeous bridges, and the Ferris wheel. Easy walking to all kinds of fun stuff. I the heart of the shopping district.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome to Brisbane
Welcome to Brisbane
Brisbane

The Tangalooma and Moreton Island trip was a real treat, especially the unique activities like dolphin feeding and sand tobogganing. It was strenuous due to climbing sandhills, but so much fun and worth the effort. I highly recommend not missing out on this adventurous and delightful experience.

Full Day Daintree Rainforest Tour
Full Day Daintree Rainforest Tour
Port Douglas

The Full Day Daintree Rainforest Tour was a truly immersive experience. The lush greenery and unique ecosystem were fascinating, and it was perfect for my granddaughter and me. While maybe less suitable for very small children, it's an activity that older kids and adults would definitely enjoy. I loved the tour, and the drive was worth it.

Full Day Skyrail and Kuranda Rail  - Late Start 11:00am - 6:30pm
Full Day Skyrail and Kuranda Rail - Late Start 11:00am - 6:30pm
Port Douglas

The Full Day Skyrail and Kuranda Rail trip was stunning, but I was disappointed to find out the train ride part wasn't included in our reservation. Thankfully, we managed to book it on-site, and it was worth it. The views were breathtaking, and it's an experience you wouldn't want to miss. Despite the hiccup in the booking, everything else was well-organized, and I'd recommend doing both the Skyrail and the train.

Local specialist: Tammy Lindsey
Tammy
Tammy Lindsey
Local specialist in Rancho Palos Verdes CA | Replied on Jun 22, 2025

Hi Susie,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I truly appreciate you taking the time to share your positive experience. It was a pleasure helping you plan this special trip with your granddaughter! I’m thrilled everything went smoothly and met your expectations. Your kind words mean so much! Let me know if you'd like to travel to New Zealand, or Fiji perhaps, for your next adventure. :)

Cheers,
Tammy

Trip of a Lifetime
Australia | Apr 27 - May 11, 2025

Judy
Judy H.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2025
When we first began planning our itinerary for Australia, it was a bit overwhelming…so many beautiful places to go in just 2 weeks! But we were extremely fortunate to have found Vicky and kimkim who made planning a dream. She was spot on when we let her know our interests and came up with an amazing itinerary that was perfect for us! Communication was excellent, and in spite of a few rainy days, what we were able to see and do was fantastic, especially with our gifted guides in Sydney,... Read more

When we first began planning our itinerary for Australia, it was a bit overwhelming…so many beautiful places to go in just 2 weeks! But we were extremely fortunate to have found Vicky and kimkim who made planning a dream. She was spot on when we let her know our interests and came up with an amazing itinerary that was perfect for us! Communication was excellent, and in spite of a few rainy days, what we were able to see and do was fantastic, especially with our gifted guides in Sydney, Uluru, Melbourne, the Blue Mountains, Port Douglas, and along The Great Ocean Road. One of our favorite experiences was snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, and Vicky selected the perfect company to take us there. The ABC snorkeling charter was fantastic, with our guides who were extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. Sunrise at Uluru was spectacular, as was the lovely evening dinner and viewing with our guide who spotlighted all to see in the beautiful night sky.
Many thanks to Vicky and Kimkim for a perfect trip, which will leave us with so many beautiful memories.

Hotel Review
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas

This was our favorite hotel. It was just across from the ocean and in walking distance to many wonderful restaurants and shops. The pool area was lovely, especially in the evening. Breakfast was wonderful, and we had free access to bikes to get to the area where we would take our snorkeling trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to places we could walk or ride bikes to.
Staff
Everyone that provided services of any kind was exceptional.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were so comfortable, there was a nice balcony and amenities.
Activity Reviews
Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Full day Tour
Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Full day Tour
Melbourne

We enjoyed touring the area and the wineries and meeting some other guests. It was a nice wind down (or “wine down”) for the last day in Australia.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Luxe Bus Great Ocean Road with Wildlife Wonders
Luxe Bus Great Ocean Road with Wildlife Wonders
Melbourne

The road was so scenic and photos are amazing.

Quality of Experience
Beautiful photos
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Just the two of us with a driver, and he accompanied us as we moved from place to place
Transport
Comfortable and on time
Foodie Discovery Walking Tour
Foodie Discovery Walking Tour
Melbourne

This tour was so much fun and we enjoyed the food treats. Our guide was exceptional and thorough.

Quality of Experience
A fantastic guide and fun to share the local delicacies
Food
Everything!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking was our transportation, but it was easily doable.
Laneways of Melbourne
Laneways of Melbourne
Melbourne

Love the artwork everywhere! Guide was great!

ABC Snorkel Charters Port Douglas Snorkelling max 12 passengers
ABC Snorkel Charters Port Douglas Snorkelling max 12 passengers
Australia

This was one of our favorites. The guides were exceptional and we saw lots of beautiful creature and life under the sea.

Quality of Experience
So much fun !
Food
Nice that provided us yummy sandwiches!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They were fun and very professional.
Transport
Premium Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Tour
Premium Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Tour
Australia

Enjoyed the boat ride and seeing the crocodiles as well as the creeks

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Good information and safety
Transport
Small Group Kuranda Tour
Small Group Kuranda Tour
Port Douglas

It was a bit longer than expected but we enjoyed the experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Classic Kuranda - Ex Port Douglas
Classic Kuranda - Ex Port Douglas
Port Douglas

Finding our way to start was somewhat confusing, but that was because there had been adjusted, but it worked out fine.

Quality of Experience
Scenery was lovely
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Good information
Transport
Comfortable
Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast
Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast
Uluru

Sunrise was spectacular, but chillier than expected. Breakfast was okay, but it was very windy and cool outside.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk
Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk
Uluru

One of our favorites !

Quality of Experience
Incredible scenery
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Knowledgeable and thorough
Transport
Comfortable
Blue Mountains Small Group Tour
Blue Mountains Small Group Tour
Sydney

Weather did not cooperate so lots of clouds obscuring views, but the information was very good.

Quality of Experience
Lots of information
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
It was a long trip but the information was good
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

The guide was exceptional and the opera house was very beautiful, inside and out.

Quality of Experience
An excellent guide with wonderful delivery of information
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Personable and easy to understand
Transport
Sydney City Small Group Walking Tour (Small Group Tour)
Sydney City Small Group Walking Tour (Small Group Tour)
Sydney

Lots of great information

Quality of Experience
Lots of history and knowledge on the part of the guidses
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very knowledgeable and entertaining
Transport
Transport was entertaining and safe
Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Jun 20, 2025
Hi Bill and Judy, Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words—it truly made my day to read your reflections! I’m so happy to hear that your Australian adventure turned out to be such a memorable and meaningful experience, and that the itinerary felt just right for you. Snorkeling with ABC on the Great Barrier Reef is always a standout, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it—they really do have a fantastic team. Sunrise at Uluru sounds like it was just as breathtaking as always, and I’m so... Read more

Hi Bill and Judy,

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words—it truly made my day to read your reflections! I’m so happy to hear that your Australian adventure turned out to be such a memorable and meaningful experience, and that the itinerary felt just right for you.

Snorkeling with ABC on the Great Barrier Reef is always a standout, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it—they really do have a fantastic team. Sunrise at Uluru sounds like it was just as breathtaking as always, and I’m so pleased you enjoyed the sunset BBQ and star talk too—such a special way to connect with the landscape and sky out there.

Thank you also for your lovely feedback about the local guides—it means so much to know they made a positive impact throughout your journey. And I couldn't agree more about The Peninsula—it's one of my personal favourites too! The service and location are consistently fantastic.

And a big thank you for sharing your gorgeous photos—I absolutely love being able to see and share the moments that made your trip so special.

It was such a pleasure planning this trip with you both, and I’m so happy it’s left you with so many wonderful memories.

Warmest wishes,
Vicky

Well planned Australia family adventure
Australia | Jun 1 - Jun 17, 2025

Doug
Doug S.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 19, 2025
We had an amazing 17 day trip to Australia that allowed us to provide so many adventure for our 13 and 10 year old daughters. Everything was so smooth and on time- our guides were superb (shoutout Bluey from Go West in Melbourne, Max and Andres from SEIT in Uluru) and our Surf teachers rocked in Byron Bay. We had an incredible day diving and snorkeling the reef and accommodations were well located and comfy. KimKim made a 5 city trip easy and so fun. Read more

We had an amazing 17 day trip to Australia that allowed us to provide so many adventure for our 13 and 10 year old daughters. Everything was so smooth and on time- our guides were superb (shoutout Bluey from Go West in Melbourne, Max and Andres from SEIT in Uluru) and our Surf teachers rocked in Byron Bay. We had an incredible day diving and snorkeling the reef and accommodations were well located and comfy. KimKim made a 5 city trip easy and so fun.

Hotel Reviews
Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns

A lovely hotel. Great food onsite, very cool swimming pools and so well located right on the esplanade in Cairns. Loved the family suite setup and nice small gym with Pilates machine. Overall a great stay

Authenticity & Character
Very cool design and furnishings.
Location
So much is walkable.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Desert Gardens Hotel
Yulara

The resort is well located and the restaurants were amazing. Rooms are a bit basic but free laundry facilities were very appreciated. Running trails nearby and easy to arrange and pickup tours. Pools are available but unheated so we couldn’t use given time of year.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Loved the resort concept at Uluru.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lancemore Crossley St Melbourne
Melbourne

A nice hotel very well located in the theatre district. Great to have a “family suite” for kids to have own bedroom. The decor is very artistic but a bit dark. Also no hotel gym and limited room service.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
East on Byron
Byron Bay

What a spot! Right across the street from the beach but also close to town. So good to have our own space and laundry! Lovely pool and hot tub on site.

Authenticity & Character
Such a great beach house
Location
Great beach access and moderate walk to central town.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Sydney

Breakfast here was incredible and location can’t be beat. A nice workout facility and comfy rooms. Very well located near sites and public transit hub and very walkable.

Authenticity & Character
A nice hotel- a bit corporate but nice.
Location
So easy to get to transit and sites.
Staff
Restaurant staff were very nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Uluru Sunrise with Breakfast
Uluru Sunrise with Breakfast
Uluru

Our post sunrise walk was excellent- Andres was very knowledgeable and the sites were very interesting. Breakfast was just ok quality.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru Sunset Dinner & Light Show
Uluru Sunset Dinner & Light Show
Uluru

Overall good. A bit long between apps and dinner and drone show was very good but also just a bit long. Food was good.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Belongil Beach Horseback Ride
Belongil Beach Horseback Ride
Byron Bay

Great outfit. Lovely horses. Beach was eroded due to a Cyclone so we rode through the tea forest. Was different and fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self-Guided Tour of Sydney's Neighborhoods & Beaches
Self-Guided Tour of Sydney's Neighborhoods & Beaches
Sydney

Vivid light festival was on and highly recommend! We went to see it all 3 nights we weee in Sydney. Would recommend folks in this time frame plan around this event and really engage it.

Quality of Experience
Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip with 2 Certified Dives
Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Trip with 2 Certified Dives
Cairns

Top notch company. Kids and one parent really enjoyed snorkeling- equipment was great and they were easily self guided. Diving was outstanding. Great guide- very safe but laid back. We had a small group (guide plus 5 divers) which made for super dives. Very knowledgeable and equipment was excellent.

Quality of Experience
Food
Lunch and snacks were good and huge portions!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sunset Camel Ride
Sunset Camel Ride
Uluru

Great fun to do this and we lucked out with an amazing sunset. We were very fortunate to be near the front so we could chat with the guide which was a bonus.

Quality of Experience
Very well run
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Phillip Island Wildlife Day Trip via Brighton Beach with Penguin Plus Viewing
Phillip Island Wildlife Day Trip via Brighton Beach with Penguin Plus Viewing
Melbourne

Big highlight- do not miss if you visit Melbourne. We enjoyed our day getting to Philip Island but the Penguin sunset was amazing- truly unlike anything we have seen. It was cold and windy and no one complained. Once in a lifetime stuff to see these small animals leave the ocean to return home.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bluey was super!
Transport
Kata Tjuta Sunrise & Valley of the Winds Walk
Kata Tjuta Sunrise & Valley of the Winds Walk
Uluru

Highlight of Uluru visit. This 4 hour hike has some amazing vistas and was just challenging enough to work a sweat but still accessible for most folks.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Max was particularly good and knowledgable.
Transport
Mossman Gorge Day Trip with River Drift Experience
Mossman Gorge Day Trip with River Drift Experience
Port Douglas

A real highlight. The hike plus river drift was so fun and enjoyable for kids and adults alike. Our guide was very knowledgeable so we talked a lot about flora and fauna of the region

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Cairns
Welcome to Cairns
Cairns

We ended up going to the Aquarium for the behind the scenes turtle hospital visit. Highly recommend. Really a treat to learn about turtles and rehabilitation

Quality of Experience
Blue Mountains Day Trip with Hike
Blue Mountains Day Trip with Hike
Sydney

Lovely day visiting the farm to see Aussie animals and then to hike in the mountains. Hike was a lovely 1 hr hike that wasn’t too strenuous but had lovely sites including waterfalls.

Quality of Experience
Food
Boxed lunch with fine-
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Byron Bay Surf Lesson
Private Byron Bay Surf Lesson
Byron Bay

Just a great day. Likes it so much kids went back for a 2nd day lesson. Both instructors were excellent- kids were up within 10min in the water (Dad was a bit slower but still got up first lesson). Equipment was great

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ultimate Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Ultimate Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Sydney

Loved this activity and great way to kickoff Sydney. Fun guide, just enough info on the tour and amazing pics.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Siena Mueller
Siena
Siena Mueller
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 24, 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We're so happy to hear that your 17-day adventure across Australia was a hit for the whole family—especially your daughters! From diving the Reef and catching waves in Byron Bay to hiking Kata Tjuta and witnessing the (windy) magic of the Penguin Parade, it sounds like each stop delivered unforgettable memories. We’re so glad to hear the trip ran smoothly and that your guides—especially Bluey, Max, and Andres—made such a strong impression. It was... Read more

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We're so happy to hear that your 17-day adventure across Australia was a hit for the whole family—especially your daughters! From diving the Reef and catching waves in Byron Bay to hiking Kata Tjuta and witnessing the (windy) magic of the Penguin Parade, it sounds like each stop delivered unforgettable memories. We’re so glad to hear the trip ran smoothly and that your guides—especially Bluey, Max, and Andres—made such a strong impression. It was a pleasure helping you plan this multi-city journey, and we hope you’ll be back for more Aussie adventures in the future! 🇦🇺

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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