Australia
MINKE WHALES, REEF & RAINFOREST
Early JUL 2027 • 10 DAYS • 18 GUESTS
~ Full trip details to be announced shortly ~
On this exhilarating adventure, come eye to eye with inquisitive Minke whales and explore the riches of the Great Barrier reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Described by Sir David Attenborough as "the most extraordinary place on earth," the world-heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. Ancient ferns and palms, emerald-green vines, and glistening rivers cover the vast area and are home to a plethora of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Overnight in a gorgeous eco-lodge situated in the heart of the Daintree; walk through dense rainforest and the Australian bush in search of endemic birds, frogs, spiders, kangaroos, possums, Boyd's dragons, and cassowaries. Enjoy a cruise to see saltwater crocodiles, pythons, and birds along the riverside.
Snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef's northern Ribbon Reefs from the comfort of our privately chartered yacht. Come face to face with giant Potato groupers at the world-famous Cod Hole and explore towering coral pinnacles filled with marine life. Experience one of the most exhilarating and incredible close-up marine encounters on the planet as Southern Dwarf Minke Whales come to socialize. These playful and curious whales actively seek out interactions with snorkelers and divers and seem to never tire of gliding past. They display their curiosity using various behaviors like spy hopping, full-body breaches, bubble blasts, belly presentations, head-rises, and jaw gapes. This natural phenomenon only happens a few weeks each year, providing us with a unique and incredible experience like no other. Enjoy daily presentations by a Minke Whale Researcher and Marine Biologist.
HIGHLIGHTS
Come eye to eye with Minke whales for one of the world's most remarkable wildlife encounters
Snorkel and dive remote pinnacles on the northern Great Barrier Reef brimming with marine life
Explore the lush Daintree Rainforest and the white-sand beaches of Cape Tribulation
Enjoy close encounters with some of Australia's iconic animals, including Kangaroos, Wallabies, Crocodiles, Cassowaries
Hike through Mossman Gorge and let local Aboriginal guides share their ancient cultural and environmental knowledge with you
Take a scenic flight over the strikingly beautiful Great Barrier Reef
Stay in a stunning rainforest lodge, eat delicious food, and be guided by the best local guides
PLEASE NOTE
This expedition is still in its creation phase. Adjustments to the itinerary are to be expected and full trip details, including brochure and trip cost, will only be available after the expedition is announced.
COMBINE FOR THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
AUSTRALIA - Uluru to Kakadu
2027 ● 14 DAYS ● 16 GUESTS
Journey through Australia's remote Red Centre, the Outback and Top End to witness spectacular landscapes, prolific wildlife and engage with the world's oldest continuing living culture. A land of stunning diversity, where waterfalls cascade over sandstone escarpments into ancient gorges, Aboriginal rock art decorates cliff faces, and waterways are filled with large saltwater crocodiles and a countless array of birdlife. Travel in style from Uluru to Kakadu aboard The Ghan on one of the world's great railway journeys.
ADD ON - Lizard Island
End your vacation in style and stay at the award-winning luxurious 5* Lizard Island Resort, a tropical island paradise on the northern Great Barrier Reef.
ADD ON - Sydney or Melbourne
We are here for you and can assist with a tailor-made itinerary to discover the vibrant cities of Australia.
RESERVE MY SPACE & ENQUIRIES
You've got that "I don't want to miss out" feeling for a good reason. Our expeditions are life changers and we have a solid following of Wild Earth Explorers who love returning to adventure with us. Don't hesitate in reserving your space today.
“I’m still reliving all the wonderful memories of our excellent adventure on Wild Earth Expeditions’ 10th Anniversary trip. How lucky I am to have found you in time for that trip of a lifetime!!! I loved traveling with you two.!!!! You are so fun, interesting, and passionate about what we are seeing and doing, and so real in your joy of sharing the adventure. I only regret that I didn’t become aware of your company earlier, since there are so many of your trips I would like to take—-your trips are My kind of trips that include physical adventure, culture, fun, and camaraderie. So now I am proud to be in the Wild Earth Family and look forward to further travels with Thomas and Natalia.”
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
AUSTRALIA 02 - Minke Whales, Reef & Rainforest
2027 ● 10 DAYS ● 16 GUESTS
Day 01: Travel to Australia
Day 02: Arrive in Cairns / Welcome Cocktails & Dinner at the Marina
Day 02: Mossman Gorge Aboriginal Walk / Port Douglas / Daintree
Day 04: Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation / Daintree River Cruise
Day 05-08: 4-night Great Barrier Reef yacht charter / Minke Whales, Cod Hole, Diving & Snorkelling
Day 09: Flyover Great Barrier Reef back to Cairns / Fly home or extend your stay at Lizard Island Resort or Sydney/Melbourne
Day 10: Arrive Home
WILD EARTH LEADER
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia Baechtold