Australia by Air

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Australia by Air

Air, Helicopter and Balloon Tours
Cultural and Theme Tours
Food and Wine Tours
Nature and wildlife
Sightseeing Tours
2 min guests
30 max guests

Highlights

  • Circumnavigate Australia in a private aircraft, discovering luxurious lodges and remote homesteads along the way.
  • Explore exclusive experiences and behind-the-scenes encounters, enriching your journey with unique Australian culture.
  • Tailor your fully customizable itinerary to suit your personal style and pace, ensuring a personalised adventure.
  • Enjoy family-friendly options and non-smoking facilities, making your travel experience comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

Circumnavigate Australia in your own private aircraft as you explore the countries most luxurious and remote lodges, homesteads and station stays. Paired with exclusive experiences

and ‘behind the scenes’ encounters, this is the ultimate Australian bucketlist This fully customizable itinerary can be tweaked and tailored to meet your personal style, pace and budget.

Itinerary highlights

Blue Mountains, New South Wales

Immersed in the natural bushland of the Blue Mountains, during your stay you will escape from the everyday to a world of tranquil bush luxury. This area is rich in history, so when staying at the retreat, the umlando (Zulu word for history) walk is a must for those feeling active. Be immersed into a timeline of events dating back to 220 million years ago. Learn about the history of the Blue Mountains, how a previous owner had to flee a war-torn country to find refuge at Sangoma and how Bowen Mountain got its name.

Rainforest Exploration

Enjoy a full day with your qualified guide visiting the stunning Blue Mountains World Heritage region. Explore Mt Banks, Blackheath, Megalong Valley, Grose Valley and the Three Sisters, Cliff Drive, Narrow Neck, Leura Cascades and Leura Village. Take in some of the most spectacular views in the region as you enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with premium wine tastings.

The Lake House, Daylesford

The Lake House lies on the shores of beautiful Lake Daylesford. Walking tracks lead from the property, around the lake and into the Wombat State Forest, complete with local fauna and the abundant health creating mineral springs the area is renowned for. The nearest spring bubbles out right on The Lake House’s doorstep. Given the opportunity to explore the gardens, you will come across significant trees, a myriad of sculptures and artwork from many of the region’s top artists, extensive outdoor terraces overlooking the lake shore and established country gardens with everything from koala-loved stringy barks to lilac, Daphne, quince, plum and apple trees. The property attracts a large number of native birds including rosella, parrot, kingfisher & kookaburra.

Dairy Flat Farm

Today you will have an introduction to one of Australia’s most celebrated bakers; Michael James (ex-Tivoli Road Bakery) for an intensive session in the state-of-the-art bake house at Dairy Flat Farm. Not only will you dive deep and get hands-on in the bake house, but you’ll make and taste a range of delicious sourdough products including baguettes, loaves, danishes and doughnuts. Of course, you’ll also take a selection with you! This afternoon, set off for a half day ‘Hidden Gems of Daylesford’ tour with a gourmet picnic and focus on the natural surrounds and gold rush history.

Freycinet, Tasmania

The Freycinet Peninsula extends south-eastwards from Tasmania’s coastline and is a fully protected national park, including the internationally acclaimed Wineglass Bay. Saffire is located on the inside of the gentle curve of sandy coastline that joins the peninsula to mainland Tasmania.

Saffire overlooks the wide expanses of Great Oyster Bay, where migrating whales and dolphins come to play; calamari and squid in-season spawn in the rocky outcrops; local farms produce fresh, succulent oysters in some of the world’s cleanest waters; and fishing boats and trawlers bring in their daily catch of rock lobster, scallops and deep sea fish, dripping and salty-sweet straight from the ocean. The dominant view from Saffire’s every window is the pink-hued granite of the peninsula’s Hazards Mountains, providing a spectacular and ever-changing backdrop from morning to nightfall.

The Saffire experience is made up of moments. Meaningful moments that capture the essence of Saffire and its close connection to the Freycinet area.

Oysters and Culture

This morning, take a coastal stroll along the beach from Saffire with our Indigenous guide, Mick Quilliam. Discover the history of the Oyster Bay people, taking in the beauty of the coastal tracks and rock platforms and the wonders of the fauna and flora right on our doorstep. Tempt your taste buds as you sample local bush tucker, learn about tools and foraging, and gain a greater understanding of time gone by and your own connection to country.

Later this afternoon, don a pair of waders and visit a working oyster farm located in a beautiful setting within an internationally significant wetland and ornithological site. Develop an understanding for wetland and marine ecology, plus a taste for prized Pacific oysters.

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Upon arrival at Warrnambool Airport, your local guide will transfer you to Port Fairy via Tower Hill Nature Reserve.

Declared Victoria’s first National Park in 1892, Tower Hill is an extinct volcano formed around 30,000 years ago. Archaeological finds show that Indigenous people lived here at the time of its eruption. The area remains culturally significant to the Koroitgundidj People.

Tower Hill offers stunning landscapes and a chance to encounter native wildlife such as emus, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and reptiles. Wildflowers bloom in spring, adding to its beauty.

You’ll join a guided walk with a local Worn Gundidj guide, learning about Aboriginal culture, traditional plant uses for food and medicine, and how to throw a boomerang.

After this immersive experience, continue to Drift House in Port Fairy. Nestled at the end of the Great Ocean Road, this unique accommodation sits at the mouth of the Moyne River, overlooking one of Australia’s most picturesque coastlines. With a rich and varied past, Drift House has hosted a colourful cast of residents including a doctor, architect, auctioneer, and even the Captain of the Militia.

Port Campbell National Park, Victoria

After breakfast, board your private helicopter for a 30-minute scenic flight over the spectacular Twelve Apostles. Only from the air can you grasp the full scale and beauty of this dramatic coastline.

The towering limestone cliffs of Port Campbell National Park, shaped by the relentless Southern Ocean, form one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes. The Twelve Apostles are a highlight, though no photo compares to seeing them in person.

On landing, meet your guide for a hike along the most scenic stretch of the Great Ocean Walk. Starting at the Gellibrand River, the trail winds along cliff tops with sweeping ocean views. Watch for kangaroos in nearby paddocks and dolphins or Southern Right Whales offshore.

Descend Gibson Steps to the beach, where towering cliffs and giant limestone stacks rise above you. Finish the walk at the Twelve Apostles boardwalk, with panoramic views of the famed rock stacks.

For lunch, head inland to Timboon for whisky tasting and a meal at the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, followed by premium ice cream from Timboon Fine Ice Cream.

Return to explore Loch Ard Gorge and other nearby coastal landmarks including London Bridge, The Grotto, and Razorback.

Barossa Valley, South Australia

On arrival, you will be transferred to one of the regions most iconic properties and be welcomed by your hosts Cassie Ferrett and Kyran Gardner. Set on the edge of the breathtaking Barossa Valley wine country, this homestead exudes style and elegance, yet maintains its rural charm.

Once the home to a wealthy nineteenth-century pastoralist and in more recent times, Kingsford Homestead offers the perfect retreat for you to indulge, discover, relax and get lost in time. Follow in the footsteps of the pastoral pioneers on an early evening walk. Try a little vintage wine-tasting in the slate-floored cellar. Take an outdoor bath in nature, inhaling deeply whilst listening to the birds and sipping on champagne.

Penfolds Behind the Scenes

Join the Penfolds Global Ambassador for a behind the scenes private look at Penfolds Magill Estate and Penfolds Barossa Valley.

Commencing with a historical tour with a visit to the Grange Cottage, the original home of Dr Christopher and Mary Penfold, before viewing the Magill Estate winery, vintage cellar and underground tunnels, where you will discover the gems hidden within.

You will experience a private back vintage tasting and barrel sampling in the Penfolds Winery before enjoying a five-course degustation lunch with matching wines in a private setting.

After lunch, board your private helicopter and let us show you our valuable vineyards in different South Australian wine regions, visiting the famous 1880s Block 42 in the Barossa, the oldest cabernet producing vineyard in Australia.

Enjoy a private tour of Penfolds fortified barrel hall and a vertical tasting in the Kalimna Homestead.

Your experience also includes being given a personalised bottle of Penfolds Grange to take home

Flinders Ranges, South Australia

Step into the timeless beauty of the Flinders Ranges and discover Arkaba, a former sheep station turned private conservancy. Set against the dramatic Elder and Chase Ranges and Rawnsley Bluff, Arkaba offers a rare glimpse into an ancient seabed shaped over millions of years into a rugged landscape of valleys, creek beds and native flora.

With a geological history dating back hundreds of millions of years and an Aboriginal history stretching back thousands, Arkaba is rich in cultural and natural heritage. Once visited by explorer John McDouall Stuart, the property now invites guests to engage with its conservation efforts and immerse themselves in the story of the Australian bush.

This afternoon, walk with Pauline McKenzie, an Adnyamathanha elder and fluent speaker of the Adnyamathanha language. A gifted storyteller, Pauline shares insights into her people’s deep connection to country, shaped over tens of thousands of years through oral tradition. Her personal experiences and cultural knowledge offer a powerful perspective on Australia’s First Nations heritage and the challenges facing Aboriginal communities today.

Arkaba Conservancy

At Arkaba, guests can actively participate in hands-on conservation efforts aimed at restoring the region’s biodiversity. Activities may include tracking radio-collared feral cats using telemetry, setting remote cameras at key wildlife sites, identifying native vegetation vital to endangered species, or joining biologists on ecological surveys. It’s a rare opportunity to engage directly with real conservation work.

Arkaba’s signature experience is a two-to-four-hour loop drive through scenic hill country once used for sheep grazing, now home to emus, kangaroos, and a diversity of birdlife. This journey reveals the dramatic landscapes of the Flinders Ranges while showcasing the transformation of land from pastoral use to thriving wilderness.

Explore the 60,000-acre conservancy on a wildlife safari through rugged ranges, gorges, and creek beds. The varied terrain provides ideal habitat for native animals, and each drive uncovers something new. From high ridges, take in sweeping views of Wilpena Pound, Chace Range, Elder and Red Ranges, and, on a clear day, even Lake Torrens.

As the sun dips, pause for a glass of South Australian wine and soak in the golden hues of this ancient, revitalised landscape.

Coober Pedy

Coober Pedy (meaning ‘white fella’s hole in the ground’) was named by Indigenous Australians baffled by the early settlers’ preference for subterranean living – something avoided by the superstitious Aboriginal population but embraced by miners, who liked the cooler, sheltered conditions.

Many of the early settlers were former soldiers who had recently returned from the trenches of World War One and were experts in the art of excavation. Still today, most residents of this unusual town live underground, and you will have the opportunity to venture below the surface and visit a home and an underground church. Explore an opal mine and the unique landscapes of the opal fields before enjoying a picnic lunch

Longtitude 131 & Field of lights

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Longitude 131°, Australia’s premier luxury outback retreat. Nestled among red-rust dunes with views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, each of the sixteen tented pavilions offers an elegant base with a deep connection to the landscape and Indigenous heritage. Inside, discover Aboriginal artworks, explorer-era relics, and a relaxed bar and dining space offering refined Australian cuisine.

As evening falls, experience the magic of Bruce Munro’s Field of Light. Wander at your own pace through 50,000 illuminated stems topped with frosted glass bulbs that glow and shimmer across the desert floor—an ethereal contrast to Uluru silhouetted against the night.

Later, enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the relaxed atmosphere of the Dune House lounge, where premium wines, mixers, craft beers, and cocktails are on offer. Dinner unfolds under the stars at Table 131°, a unique outback dining experience. With clear desert skies and no nearby light pollution, the Milky Way stretches endlessly overhead—perfect for stargazing in Australia’s spiritual heartland.

Uluru

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast or rise early to witness sunrise over Uluru. At 11am, visit Maruku Arts for an introduction to Aboriginal art. Learn about traditional symbols and painting techniques from local Aboriginal women, then create your own piece to take home.

In the afternoon, explore Uluru’s base with expert guides from Longitude 131°. Walk along a trail that winds past ancient rock caves decorated with Aboriginal artworks. Discover the cultural stories of the Mala people and the significance of each cave ‘room’.

The trail continues through groves of native trees and across boardwalks, leading to Kantju Gorge. This striking fold in Uluru’s surface shelters a peaceful waterhole, used traditionally for swimming. As the sun sets, Uluru glows brilliant red, backlit by a deepening sky.

Pause at the waterhole for reflection, canapés and sunset drinks at the Longitude 131° pop-up bar. Then head to the exclusive Uluru sunset viewing area, the ultimate spot for capturing stunning photographs of the rock changing colour. Sip French Champagne, craft beers or premium spirits alongside gourmet canapés infused with Australian bush flavours as day turns to dusk.

Karijini National Park, Western Australia

Karijini National Park is one of Australia’s most underrated natural wonders. Over 2.5 billion years of erosion have sculpted its striking landscape—layered red cliffs, narrow tunnels, and dramatic gorges. Among the Pilbara’s plains and gum trees lie hidden waterfalls, emerald waterholes, and shady pockets of ferns that offer welcome relief in this rugged terrain.

Transfer to Karijini Eco Retreat, then spend the day exploring the park’s highlights. In the remote northwest lies Hamersley Gorge, known for its dramatic, folded rock formations and terraced waterfalls. A 400-metre descent brings you to the gorge floor, where you can swim in the refreshing pool and admire the twisted layers of ancient stone.

Follow a narrow, tree-lined chasm to reach the Spa Pool—an extraordinary, ice-blue pond nestled in curved rock walls. Fed by a graceful waterfall, the pool’s colours shift from grey to red depending on the light. Up close, you’ll see the fine details of geological strata that tell a story billions of years in the making.

Karijini is a place of raw, ancient beauty—inviting you to explore, swim, and stand in awe of the land’s deep time.

Coral Coast, Western Australia

On arrival at Exmouth, transfer with your private driver to Sal Salis. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is an exclusive beach safari camp nestled in the dunes of the Cape Range National Park in Western Australia.

Each of its eco-luxe wilderness tents offers views of the surrounding bush and over the Indian Ocean and the fringing Ningaloo Reef, one of Australia’s most pristine reef ecosystems.

Relax in your tent’s hammock and watch the world go by, or laze on the beach and paddle in the warm Indian Ocean waters.

Your safari style tent is the ultimate in bush luxury. At night, fall asleep to the sound of the waves on the beach and under a blanket of hundreds of thousands of stars.

Whale shark Swim and Dark Sky Experience

Wake to the call of butcher birds, the squawk of galahs, or the thump of a wallaroo outside your tent. After breakfast, transfer 25 minutes to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp, where your whale shark experience begins. Meet your skipper and crew, enjoy morning tea, then head out into the Indian Ocean. A spotter plane guides the boat to the whale sharks, and the crew outfits you with snorkel gear and wetsuits, providing a full briefing.

These gentle giants—up to 12 metres long—cruise the Ningaloo Reef from March to July. Swimming alongside them is a rare and humbling encounter. Keep an eye out for dolphins, rays, dugongs, turtles, and sea birds as you cruise the reef. You’ll also stop to snorkel and enjoy a fresh Western Australian lunch on board.

After your unforgettable swim, return to your accommodation. As night falls, prepare for something extraordinary. In this designated Dark Sky area, the Milky Way spills across the sky. Lighting is minimal, dinner is by candlelight, and you’ll be given a lantern to find your way back to your tent—where the stars are so vivid, sleep might have to wait.

Exmouth to Broome, Western Australia

This morning, you will board your private plane and fly further north to Broome. On arrival, you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to the Billi Resort. The Billi Resort was affectionately named after the local Indigenous name for the coastal area of Cable Beach; Bilingurr. Centrally located, The Billi is the ideal private escape. Enjoy the lush tropical gardens, raised timber walkways and the tranquil surroundings, as you stay in a Luxury King Eco Tent that reflects the richness of the Kimberley with its stylish interior, and local artwork.

Edgar Ranges

Set off this morning for a scenic flight to the spectacular and little-known Edgar Ranges, south east of Broome on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert, where you will land for an amazing view of the ranges.

To extend the flight and make a fantastic day trip, you will return via the award-winning Eco Beach Resort for an a la carte lunch, including complimentary glass of wine, beer or soft drink.

After lunch, enjoy a leisurely ocean swim or stroll along the spectacular white sandy beach before a stunning coastal scenic flight over the Kimberley region, along the shores of Roebuck Bay back to Broome.

Berkley River Lodge, Western Australia

This morning, transfer to Broome Airport for your private flight to Berkeley River Lodge—Australia’s most remote luxury lodge, accessible only by air. Nestled between the Timor Sea and the Berkeley River, this untouched Kimberley wilderness offers a blend of adventure and indulgence.

Stay in a luxurious villa perched atop coastal dunes and embrace the isolation, where nature takes centre stage. Spend your days exploring via river cruises, guided hikes, 4WD tours, and helicopter flights, or simply unwind in serene surroundings.

This afternoon, join a guided creek walk led by resident nature experts. Discover the rich flora, fauna, and striking geology of the region’s dunes, mangroves, and grasslands—ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Rise early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then set off on a 4WD or helicopter tour. You’ll witness sweeping ocean views, ancient rock formations, and abundant wildlife during the golden hours of the day.

Later, cruise along the beach, spotting seabirds, saltwater crocodiles, or even reef sharks near the shore. As the day ends, follow your guide to Cape St Lambert rocks for sunset drinks and nibbles—an unforgettable moment surrounded by wild, rugged beauty.

Bremer Island, East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory
Lizard Island, Queensland
Gilberton, Queensland

This morning, fly to Gilberton Outback Retreat in Northern Queensland—a luxurious eco-stay perched above the Gilbert River. Built from local stone and timber, the retreat features a king bed and a deep soaking tub with uninterrupted panoramic views. On arrival, enjoy a welcome platter and champagne, plus thoughtful touches like robes, slippers, and treats throughout your private hideaway.

Soak in the solitude and beauty of the outback in understated luxury. Depending on your arrival time, join a 4WD tour across the working cattle station—help feed the cattle or, during mustering season, assist in training the young herd.

Your stay includes a range of immersive experiences: visit granite cathedrals and natural springs, explore the remains of the old gold mining township of Gilberton, and hear stories from the gold rush era. Pan for gold, visit a heritage-listed mine, or chat with real-life prospectors.

Watch the station in action, visit Lake Fred for swimming, kayaking or fishing, and look out for the local pelican fed by cormorants. Mountain bikes are also available, or simply relax in complete seclusion, surrounded by nature, silence, and sky.

Brisbane, Queensland

This morning, you will hop your way down the Queensland coast to Brisbane. On arrival, you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel, located in the fashionable suburb of New Farm, you’ll experience Brisbane as a local with a stay at Spicers Balfour Hotel.

Spicers Balfour Hotel is just minutes from the Brisbane city centre and a two minute walk from Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s newest entertainment and lifestyle destination. Apart from its amazing location, Spicers Balfour Hotel offers luxuriously distinctive rooms and suites that provide a welcoming sanctuary. It is the perfect space for a city escape. Step inside this iconic Queenslander and you’ll discover a chic and stylish interior.

Scenic Rim Hike

Today’s journey takes you along a path few have walked—one of discovery, connection, and awe. After breakfast, begin a gentle walk along Oakey Creek on Spicers’ private property, keeping an eye out for goannas, wedge-tailed eagles, and wallabies. Turn east and begin your ascent toward Spicers Peak, where you may spot the endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo.

Pause mid-morning for billy tea or coffee, and learn about the region’s fire ecology, witnessing how the land has recovered since the 2019 bushfires. Continue climbing, breaking through the tree line to sweeping views of the Great Dividing Range, Mt Mitchell, and Spicers Canopy.

A final push involves a short rope-assisted climb, leading to Spicers Peak’s cool rainforest—home to giant ferns, grass trees, and 300-year-old hoop pines. Enjoy lunch in the shade of this ancient landscape before the last two-hour leg.

Descend across a saddle, then ascend Cedar Mountain to complete your hike. After a moment of reflection, a short walk brings you to Spicers Peak Lodge, where refreshing towels and cold drinks await. Transfer back to Spicers Canopy for a well-earned celebratory dinner.

Distance: 15km | Duration: ~8 hours | Grade: Hard

Koala Tracking

Take a scenic helicopter flight from Spicers Peak Lodge to Spicers Hidden Vale and track koalas in their natural habitat at the Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre.

Leaving from the lodge mid-morning, your flight will take you over the Little Liverpool Range before arriving at Spicers Hidden Vale for an award-winning dining experience at Homage restaurant.

Your 2-course lunch includes a glass of wine or beer upon arrival inside the newly built Homestead followed by a two-hour Koala safari. On the tour, you will explore parts of the 12,000 acre property to find koala hotspots assisting researchers in locating and checking the welfare of the koala community.

A portion of the Koala safari cost goes back into funding the Wildlife Centre’s research projects.

This evening, when you return, enjoy a private whiskey tasting where you will experience a selection of drams from around the world, comparing modern whiskies from Australia and Japan with classics from the traditional home of whisky – Scotland.

Tour details

  • Air, Helicopter and Balloon Tours
  • Cultural and Theme Tours
  • Food and Wine Tours
  • Nature and wildlife
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Customised
  • Extended
  • Air
  • Land – Motorised
  • Land – Self Propelled
  • Water – Motorised
  • Chauffeured Tour
  • On-site Experience
  • Private Tour
  • Basic
  • On demand

Features

Service facilities

  • Family Friendly
  • Non Smoking
Accessibility

Actively welcomes people with access needs.

General access

  • Offers multiple options for booking – web, email, phone is available.
  • Offers a range of contact methods for receiving complaints.
  • Accessibility information and photos, including of a bathroom, room and/or floor plan on their website (can be emailed on request).
  • Advise tour guides of the access needs of guests at the time of booking (includes pick up and drop off requirements)
  • Assistance with booking arrangements (includes providing clear itineraries with written instructions on what to do at various destinations)

Communication

  • Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)

  • Uses Plain English / easy read signage and information (includes menus and emergency information)

Vision

  • Caters for people who are blind or have vision loss.

  • Information in large print is available.
  • Digital communication materials (hard copy information also online) is available.
  • Uses easy to read fonts in their signage and communication materials (Helvetica and Arial).
  • Handrails on all stairways

Hearing

  • Caters for people who are deaf or have hearing loss.

  • Visual alerts for emergencies (Include flashing light) are available.

Physical – Mobility

  • Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)

  • Uses floors/coverings which are slip resistant, firm and smooth
  • Uses non-slip tiles in the bathroom or slip resistant matting
  • Seating in common areas including reception area

Physical – High support needs

  • Caters for people with high support needs who travel with a support person.

  • Twin beds available on request.
  • Rooms which are interconnecting.
  • A place to store medical equipment (eg oxygen).

Allergies and intolerances

  • Caters for people with allergies and intolerances.

  • Complies with The Food Authority requirements for allergy management in food preparation.

Operation information

Adventure By Air – Queensland

Adventure by Air delivers privately curated, immersive journeys across Queensland by private aircraft. These bespoke itineraries take travellers deep into QLD’s most remote landscapes, pairing exclusive air access with handpicked luxury lodges, off-grid station stays, and rich on-the-ground experiences. Whether by fixed wing, helicopter, seaplane or private jet, every journey is crafted entirely around the traveller’s pace, style and interests—no group tours, just extraordinary access and personalised discovery, all thoughtfully designed.

Tags

  • Adventure
  • Beaches & Surf

Memberships

  • Council of Australian Tour Operators

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