The Aussie Challenge
If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel’s Aussie Challenge Package please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER or CALL 617-242-7845
Join us for the 2025 Aussie Challenge and combine Sydney with Kangaroo Island. These two races, only a week apart, are the perfect combination for those looking to get the most out of their Australian experience. Seven Continents Club® members will get the opportunity to check off both their Half and Full Oceania Marathons in one journey. The flight to Australia can be a long one, so make the most out of it with two unique races in one exciting adventure.
Marathon Tours & Travel is proud to be the Official Travel Agency for the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. The 2024 TCS Sydney Marathon made history again beating the record set in 2023 as Australia’s biggest marathon field. Now in a landmark achievement, the TCS Sydney Marathon has been named the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major (AbbottWMM) joining the series in 2025. Join us to run one of the most breathtaking courses in the world.
The Kangaroo Island Marathon is one of the most beautiful marathon courses anywhere in the world, providing once-in-a-lifetime views, a challenging course and an opportunity to see some incredible wildlife. Perfect for adventure runners, thrill-seekers or runners looking to vary the type of course they run on, the 2025 Kangaroo Island Marathon promises to be a superb event, filled with fun and incredible achievements!
The Aussie Challenge combines these two iconic races so you can experience the vibrant bustling city of Sydney and the natural beauty and wildlife of Kangaroo Island all in one package.
Meals Included
Meals as outlined on the itinerary
Transfers
Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, race day transfers to start/finish area, one-way airfare from Adelaide to Sydney and airport transfer to hotel in Sydney
Trip Extension
Post-Race extension to the Great Barrier Reef
Accommodation
Twelve nights’ accommodation
Entry
Guaranteed race entry for the Sydney Marathon and either the Kangaroo Island Marathon or Half-marathon
Celebration Party
Post-Race Celebration
Excursions
Kangaroo Island day excursion and Sydney sightseeing opportunities & cocktail cruise
A Helping Hand
Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
Medal Bling
Finishers will receive a special Aussie Challenge Medal and Finisher Shirt
Travel Package Information
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Itinerary
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Thursday, August 21
Arrive in Adelaide (ADL) and transfer on your own to the Pullman Adelaide Hotel. This afternoon we will explore Adelaide by foot with our local guide. Tonight, there will be a welcome dinner hosted at the hotel. (Dinner included)
Friday, August 22
After breakfast we make our way to the ferry terminal at Cape Jervis (approx. 90 min). Upon arrival to Kangaroo Island, we will visit Dudley Wines for a pizza lunch, whilst enjoying stunning views back onto the mainland. After lunch we will make our way to the Ozone Hotel. This evening we will enjoy a two-course dinner at the hotel (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Saturday, August 23
Today we will get the chance to explore some of Kangaroo Island’s iconic sights, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and visit the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery. Part of the tour will provide you with a chance to see Sunday’s race route through Flinders Chase National Park! Tonight, join us for our pre-race dinner at the hotel. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Sunday, August 24
Race Day! This morning you will be transferred to the starting line of the Kangaroo Island Marathon in Flinders Chase National Park (approx. 80 minutes). Return transfers will be provided at the conclusion of the race. This evening the group will gather for a post-race reception to celebrate your accomplishments! (Breakfast included)
Monday, August 25
We will say goodbye to Kangaroo Island and head back to Adelaide. On our way we will stop to enjoy a private wine tasting at Chalk Hill Wines followed by a Gin tasting and lunch at Never Never Distillery. Upon arrival in Adelaide, you will have the evening at your leisure. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Tuesday, August 26
The Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s top wine regions that is known for its shiraz and grenache vines. Today we will taste our way through some of the region’s local vineyards and enjoy lunch at one of their local wineries. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Wednesday, August 27
Today we will head into the Adelaide Hills, starting with a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park where you can get up close and hand feed many of the native animals. In the afternoon we will make our way to the German Town of Hanhdorf, where you will have time to explore this quaint town, shop for souvenirs and enjoy lunch on your own. This evening, we will return to Adelaide for our farewell dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Thursday, August 28
After breakfast we will transfer to the Adelaide Airport for our flight to Sydney. Once you arrive to Sydney and check-in at the InterContinental Sydney, we recommend you use your free afternoon to visit the Sydney Running Show, where you will pick up your race bib. You will have the remainder of your day to explore Sydney on your own.
Friday, August 29
After breakfast, the group will depart on an unforgettable panoramic Sydney half-day sightseeing tour. During the tour we will visit the historic Rocks area, enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and visit Bondi Beach. At the conclusion of the tour, you will be dropped off at the Sydney Marathon Expo to collect your race kits. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.
This evening, Marathon Tours & Travel will host a Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise. There is no other Sydney venue more desired, no views more captivating, than the spectacular Sydney Harbour. Cocktail cruise includes canapes and one (1) drink per person. (Breakfast included)
Saturday, August 30
Today you can enjoy the sights of Sydney at your leisure. Relax at one of the famous beaches, visit the Taronga Zoo to see the koalas, or head to the Sydney Running Show for last minute race gear purchases. Tonight, join us for our pre-race dinner at the hotel. (Breakfast and dinner included)
Sunday, August 31
Race Day! This morning, a representative from Marathon Tours & Travel will escort you to the starting line. Your hotel is located 800 meters from the finish line, for an easy walk back. This evening, the group will gather for a post-race reception to celebrate your accomplishment at a nearby restaurant! Celebration reception includes canapes and one (1) drink per person. (Breakfast included)
Monday, September 1
Join one of MTT’s optional tours or explore Sydney on your own. (Breakfast included)
Blue Mountains Tour – Explore one of the seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region. The day begins with early access to Calmsley Hill, a working farm home to Kangaroo’s, Emu’s, Wombat and Koala’s. The tour will continue with stops at Wentworth Falls, Jamison Creek, and Eaglehawk Lookout, before guests set off on a self-guided hike (~2 hours) along the top of the Grose Valley. You will enjoy a picnic lunch before finishing the day at the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens where there’s time for a short inspection of the flora including the ancient Wollemi Pine. (Picnic lunch included) $215.00 USD/person
Hunter Valley Tour – Join us for a day of indulgence in Australia’s oldest and best-known wine region. The day will feature multiple tastings led by in-house wine experts at some of the most prestigious wineries in the area. A lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients will be served with a refreshing beverage while you immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Hunter Valley. (Tastings & Lunch included) $270.00 USD/person
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Extensions
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Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier Reef | 4 Nights:
Tuesday, September 2
Transfer from your hotel in Sydney to Sydney International Airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Shangri-La Cairns. You will have the remainder of the day at your leisure to relax at the hotel or go into town to explore Cairns.
Wednesday, September 3
Today you will walk from the hotel to the port for your full day Great Barrier Reef Cruise. You will explore three different sites from an amazing selection of exclusive locations at the stunning Agincourt Ribbon Reefs. Enjoy over 5 hours at the reef with unlimited snorkeling and up to three certified dives and introductory diving (diving is at an additional cost). At the conclusion of the cruise you will return to the hotel. (Breakfast and lunch included.)
Thursday, September 4
After breakfast, you will meet your guide for a full day tour of the local area. The day will begin with a visit to the Cattana Wetlands for a guided walk and morning tea. The tour will then continue to Barron Falls, where you will meet your local Djabugay Cultural guide for boardwalk and discussion of the history and culture of the surrounding environment. From Barron Falls, the tour will continue to Kuranda, the famous village in the rainforest. You will have ample time to explore the heritage markets, enjoy lunch on your own, and visit one (or more) of the local attractions. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway will take you back to Cairns via the “scenic route.” Upon arrival at the Shangri-La Cairns, you will have the evening at your leisure. (Breakfast included)
Friday, September 5
Today is a free day to explore Cairns on your own or book another day out on the Great Barrier Reef. Join us in the evening for our farewell reception at the Backyard restaurant in the hotel. (Breakfast included)
Saturday, September 6
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Cairns airport for your flight home or on ward to your next destination. Please be sure to book your flight home from Cairns (CNS) as we will not be returning to Sydney. (Breakfast included)
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Packages & Rates
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The Aussie Challenge Tour | Twelve-Night Package: August 21 – September 2, 2025
Adelaide Features:
- Four nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Adelaide
- Breakfast daily
- Welcome Dinner (Thursday, August 21)
- Adelaide Walking Tour
- Barossa Valley Full Day Wine Tour
- Adelaide Hills Full Day Tour with a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park
- Farewell Dinner (Wednesday, August 27)
Kangaroo Island Features:
- Three nights’ accommodation at the Aurora Ozone Hotel
- Breakfast daily
- Roundtrip transportation to the Cape Jervis ferry terminal
- Roundtrip SeaLink Ferry to Kangaroo Island
- Meals as outlined on the itinerary
- Full Day Kangaroo Island Sightseeing Tour with picnic lunch
- Visit to McLaren Vale wine region for a tasting and lunch
- Guaranteed Entry into the Kangaroo Island Marathon or Half-Marathon (in addition to the package price)
Sydney Features:
- Five night’s accommodations
- Breakfast daily at the hotel
- Welcome breakfast reception upon arrival
- Half-day guided sightseeing tour of Sydney ending at the Expo
- Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise
- Pre-race dinner
- Post-race celebration reception
- Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
- All taxes included
- Guaranteed Race Entry (cost is in addition to the package price)
Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier Reef | 4 Nights:
Features:
- Four nights’ accommodation at the Shangri-La Cairns
- Breakfast daily at the hotel
- One-way flight from Sydney to Cairns
- Airport transfer to Sydney International Airport
- Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tour (diving available at an additional charge)
- Full Day Waterfalls, Wetlands, & Kuranda Tour
- Farewell Reception
- All taxes included
- Services of Marathon Tours & Travel Staff
Not Included:
- Australian Travel Visa – Required for U.S. and Canadian residents
- International airfare to/from Sydney
- Great Barrier Reef airfare from Cairns (CNS) to your connecting international flight
- All activities listed as optional
- Meals unless noted on the itinerary
- Gratuities and tips
- Incidentals
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
Airfare:
Aussie Challenge Package: International flights should be booked to arrive at Adelaide Airport (ADL) on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Your flight home can depart on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at any time that is convenient for you.
Great Barrier Reef Extension: Guests on the post-race extension to the Great Barrier Reef should book your return flight on Saturday, September 6 from Cairns (CNS) to your home airport.
Rates (all prices are per person and in US dollars)
Aussie Challenge 12-Night Package - Room Type at InterContinental in Sydney Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Classic Room $4500 per person $6275 Eastern Harbour View Room $4645 per person $6575 Bridge View Room $4970 per person $7200 Optional Add-Ons Blue Mountains Hiking Tour | Monday, September 1 - SOLD OUT $215 per person Hunter Valley Wine Tour | Monday, September 1 - WAITLIST $270 per person Post-Race Extension to the Great Barrier Reef Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Deluxe Room - SOLD OUT $1415 per person $1930 Deluxe Ocean View Room - SOLD OUT $1465 per person $2025 Race Entry Fee Rate TCS Sydney Marathon $375 Kangaroo Island Marathon $100 Kangaroo Island Half-Marathon $100 Kangaroo Island 10K $40
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Hotels
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Adelaide’s premium 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. The 308 rooms and suites offer a fresh, open layout and all-round connectivity; ready to welcome modern-day adventurers and nomads, travelling for business or pleasure. Positioned in the heart of the Adelaide CBD and walking distance to Adelaide Oval and the Adelaide Convention Centre, experience the Pullman Adelaide and the perfect park location. Pullman Adelaide is an easy gateway to all of the favorite wine regions, including the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale.
Welcome to the Aurora Ozone Hotel at Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Boasting a truly unique location, set along the foreshore of one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines.
Experience our quality Kangaroo Island accommodation located on the foreshore with stunning views overlooking Nepean Bay from our Zone Restaurant.
Capella SydneyEscape to a destination where history and contemporary meet in the historical heart of Sydney. Originally built as the Department of Education in 1912 and reawakened as Capella Hotels’ first Australian outpost, discover a new benchmark in luxury hospitality that is footsteps away from Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.
InterContinental Sydney, SydneyLocated a half mile from the finish line in the centrally positioned heart of Circular Quay. The InterContinental Sydney extends breathtaking panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Set within the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851, this hotel is renowned as one of the city’s prized icons.
Sofitel Sydney WentworthSydney’s iconic first 5-star hotel in Australia. Our hotel is an unparalleled luxury retreat located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD amidst the bustling business and shopping districts. Sofitel will provide an all-encompassing experience where entertainment, leisure, conferencing and unparalleled hospitality will converge seamlessly, transcending traditional hotel boundaries.
Shangri-La The Marina, CairnsExperience the warmth of our genuine Australian hospitality at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. Prominently situated on the marina. Laze by the pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens or adventure out to Carin’s favorite attractions including local markets, waterfalls and World Heritage listed rainforests and landmarks.
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Event Information
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Kangaroo Island Marathon Event Information:
Race Date: Sunday August 24, 2025
Race Time: Marathon 7:30am. Half Marathon 8:00am*
*Half marathon runners must report by 7:00am sharp. Buses depart to the Remarkable Rocks (start line) at 7:15am.
Course: The course route carves its way through the heart of a shutdown Flinders Chase National Park. Runners are inspired by post-bushfire regenerating flora and fauna, undulating roads and trails, an exposed coastal section with views of the powerful Southern Ocean and a boardwalk leading to the iconic Remarkable Rocks. The race format encourages a spirit of camaraderie amongst runners as they pass by each other throughout the day.
Temperature: The weather in Kangaroo Island is mild with an average temperature between 50-65°F.
Entry Fee: We can provide entry to the Marathon or Half Marathon at a special rate when you book a package through Marathon Tours & Travel.
Time Limit: The course time limit is seven (7) hours.
Difficulty: Challenging course with rolling hills and beautiful scenery.
TCS Sydney Marathon Presented By ASICS Event Information:
Race Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Race Time: 7:00 AM – Marathon
Course: Introduced in 2001, the inaugural TCS Sydney Marathon followed the same course as the marathon during the 2000 Summer Olympics the previous year. The 2025 marathon course will incorporate changes to enhance the experience to make it “a faster, more scenic and spectator friendly course”. The TCS Sydney Marathon course is AIMS Certified accurate course. Marathon Course Map and Marathon Course Profile.
Entry Fee: TCS Sydney Marathon – $375
Eligibility: TCS Sydney Marathon – 18 years +
Time Limit: Seven (7) Hours. The marathon will have cut-off points along the route. For more information go here.
Awards: Marathoners who finish their running event within the time limit will receive a commemorative medal and also receive a finishers t-shirt.
Temperature: September is the beginning of the spring season in Sydney. Daytime temperatures will range from 60°F – 68°F (16°C – 20°C). You will want to be prepared for some potential chilly westerly winds and chance of rain.
Difficulty: Moderate. See Marathon course profile here.
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Registration & Booking
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Rates: All prices are based on current exchange rates and may change due to currency fluctuations. All payments to Marathon Tours & Travel will be processed in US Dollars.
Reservation and Payments: A completed tour application together with a non-refundable deposit of $1200 per person must be received before confirming your reservation. Final payment must be received before June 1, 2025. Final payments received after June 1, 2025 are subject to a $50 late payment fee. Bookings made after June 1, 2025 will require full payment at time of booking.
Cancellations: All payments, including your deposit, are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Non-transferrable includes applying your balance to another person, another year or another trip. Should you cancel for any reason, you will forfeit your trip investment. Therefore, travel insurance for every trip is highly recommended. All cancellations must be received in writing.
Note Included in the Price: All items not specifically listed under tour features. The race entry fee is an additional cost to the package price.
Insurance: For your protection, trip cancellation, baggage, health and accident insurance is highly recommended for all participants. However, no representation or description of the insurance made by our staff constitutes a binding assurance or promise about the insurance.
Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents
Travel Insurance for Canadian ResidentsSecurity Policy: Marathon Tours & Travel’s security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and /or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest’s tour package will be forfeited and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.
Responsibility: These tours are operated by Marathon Tours, Inc. of Chelsea, MA who acts only as an agent for the passenger to the companies offering such services and assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity caused by any reason whatsoever by any party offering such services. All terms and conditions offered are governed by the laws of Massachusetts. The right is reserved to cancel the tour prior to departure with a refund, less applicable credit card and processing fees, made as full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved by Marathon Tours, Inc. to deny acceptance of a booking application by any person. Marathon Tours, Inc. may make any changes or alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary for the proper handling of the tour. The sole responsibility of any airline used is limited to that set out in the passenger contract evidenced by the ticket. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that the passengers are not on board their aircraft.
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Meet the Reps
Ann Haebler
Senior Trip Designer
Ann Haebler
Senior Trip Designer
Ann joined the Marathon Tours & Travel team after spending five years working as Group Sales Manager for a domestic tour operator specializing in train travel. She has now been a member of the team for eight years and hopes to continue to expand her knowledge of the world. Since her seventh grade world geography class, she has had an interest in learning about all the world has to offer.
During her time majoring in geography at the University of New Hampshire, her love of travel really kicked into high gear after spending a semester abroad in Australia. Let’s just say it was love at first flight! She has completed several half-marathons, 10K and 5K’s around the globe and in her local community.
Ann currently manages trips to Bhutan, Dragon Challenge, Comrades Ultra Marathon, Rio de Janeiro, Big Five, the Australian Outback, Sydney, Cape Town, Dublin and Patagonia in addition to being an Oceania Cruise Line Specialist.
