Journey from Sydney to Cairns on our longest Australia tour. This escorted 17-day group trip takes in all the main highlights of Australia's East Coast, including Brisbane, Newcastle and Cairns. Unwind on the blissful beaches of Byron Bay and explore Fraser Island on a 4WD adventure. See rehabilitated koalas at Port Macquarie, cruise the Whitsundays and dive beneath the waves on a Great Barrier Reef snorkelling excursion. Take in the Daintree Rainforest on foot, walk through Mossman Gorge and spot snapping crocs on an included nature cruise.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Australia!
Our journey begins in Australia's Harbour City, renowned for its stunning beauty and prominence on the east coast. After settling into your room, join our tour leader and fellow travelers for a welcome meeting and an orientation walk at 6pm. Following that, we will indulge in a delightful welcome dinner, so you can get to know the group. After dinner, the evening is yours to spend how you wish.
Overnight: Sydney | Dinner
Hunter Valley & wildlife park
Sydney - Newcastle. We depart Sydney and venture into a wildlife park in the heart of the Hunter Valley. This park is home to a variety of native animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and more. During our visit, we will be accompanied by our own personal wildlife ranger who will guide us through the park.
After our exciting wildlife encounter, we have the perfect opportunity to indulge in a wine, cheese, and chocolate tasting tour in the Hunter Valley. This area is known for its exquisite wines, delicious cheeses, and mouth-watering chocolates, making for a truly delightful experience.
We then complete our journey to Newcastle, where we enjoy a brief orientation tour of this vibrant and sunny port city. The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Newcastle | Breakfast
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
Newcastle - Port Macquarie. After breakfast, we drive to Port Macquarie, where we visit a local koala hospital and meet the dedicated volunteers and their cuddly patients. During our visit, you will come face to face with rescued and rehabilitated koalas and will learn all about these endangered creatures. By visiting the center, you are directly helping to support the conservation of this Australian emblem.
The evening is yours to relax and take a leisurely stroll along the foreshore in Port Macquarie. As you walk along, listen to the beautiful sounds of the local bird population and keep an eye out for the wild dolphins that frequent the area.
Overnight: Port Macquarie | Breakfast
Byron Bay
Port Macquarie - Byron Bay. On the morning of day 4, join us in a captivating experience with the Gumbaynggirr nation to learn about their rich First Nations culture. This immersive encounter will allow you to connect with the traditional custodians of this land.
It's then time to make our way to Byron Bay, known for its laid-back surfer vibes and endless stretches of picturesque coastline. We enjoy an included visit to Cape Byron, offering one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled as you might spot dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures.
The rest of day 4 and all of day 5 are completely free for you to unwind in Byron Bay. You could hit the beach, book a surf lesson, go kayaking or simply kick back with a book and a coffee in one of the beachfront cafes.
Overnight: Byron Bay | Breakfast x 1
Noosa National Park
Byron Bay - Noosa - Rainbow Beach. Today we cross into Queensland and make our way to Noosa National Park. Here you will have the chance to spot koalas and other native Australian animals, as well as taking in the stunning scenery. Arriving in Rainbow Beach, the evening is free. Why not head out for a stroll along the beach?
Overnight: Rainbow Beach | Breakfast
Fraser Island (K'Gari) 4WD adventure
Rainbow Beach - Fraser Island - Rainbow Beach. Experience the thrill of a lifetime on an unforgettable 4WD K'Gari adventure today. Formerly known as Fraser Island, this destination has been recently renamed K'gari, reflecting its original Butchulla name meaning "paradise". We will enjoy a 4WD safari across the largest sand island in the world, where you will have the opportunity to relax and admire the breathtaking scenery from some of Queensland's most renowned lookouts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of a lush rainforest, take a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear lake, and embark on a thrilling dingo-discovery adventure along golden beaches.
After a day of discovery on Fraser Island, we make our way back to Rainbow Beach. The evening is free to chill out in the hotel or head out to explore.
Overnight: Rainbow Beach | Breakfast, Lunch
Brisbane
Rainbow Beach - Brisbane. Today, we are heading to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, also known by many locals as Bris-Vegas. The city will host the 2032 Summer Olympics. This relaxed, sunny, and buzzing city truly represents the quintessential Australian spirit. To get a feel of the city, we take a short walk along the Brisbane River and you can then explore its surroundings independently.
Overnight: Brisbane | Breakfast
Airlie Beach free time
Brisbane - Airlie Beach. This morning we head to the airport for our included flight to Airlie Beach, a beautiful destination in the Whitsundays. The rest of the day is free, and full of possibilities. You can wander around the town, discover a trendy bar, or even explore the nearby local swimming hole, it's up to you!
Overnight: Airlie Beach | Breakfast
Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach
Today we're enjoying a laid-back morning cruise around the picturesque islands of the Whitsundays. Our itinerary includes a visit to the renowned Whitehaven beach, which boasts stunning white sands, crystal clear blue waters, and lush greenery. For a more immersive experience, you can go snorkelling to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and turtles. Returning to dry land, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Airlie Beach | Breakfast, Lunch
Mission Beach at leisure
Airlie Beach - Mission Beach. Today, we will experience a change of scenery as we travel through rolling cane fields to the charming coastal resort of Mission Beach. In the afternoon, there is ample time to relax and appreciate the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking vistas. Take advantage of this opportunity to catch up on your reading or simply unwind by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, immersing yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Overnight: Mission Beach | Breakfast
Atherton Tablelands
Start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before we embark on a journey through the lush wet tropics of Far North Queensland. On our way to the Atherton Tablelands, we will come across a breathtaking plunge waterfall hidden within a dense tropical rainforest. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water, and keep an eye out for the native platypus!
Continuing our adventure, we will visit Lake Eacham, a stunning crater lake known for its crystal-clear water. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the impressive 'Curtain Fig Tree' during our visit.
Overnight: Mission Beach | Breakfast
Great Barrier Reef
Mission Beach - Cairns. Today may go down as the highlight of your Australia tour, as we embark on a cruise aboard a glass-bottomed boat to the UNESCO-protected Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most renowned natural wonders. Don your mask and snorkel and head below the waves to see shoals of colorful fish, rays, turtles and perhaps even a curious shark or two!
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guides will offer insights on reef conservation and about the species you see. Our top-notch vessel will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience, and you can also join optional scuba diving if you would like to go a little deeper down to the reef. Back on dry land, there is an included group dinner tonight in Cairns, where we are sure to reflect on our incredible experience!
Overnight: Cairns | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cairns to Port Douglas
Cairns - Kuranda - Port Douglas. Departing Cairns, we journey first to Kuranda. Here we enjoy an included ride on the Skyrail gondola, which passes over the world's oldest living tropical rainforest. Soak up the magnificent view over this ancient forest, teeming with life. Next, we continue north to the serene town of Port Douglas, renowned for its captivating sunsets and leisurely atmosphere. The evening is free to head out for dinner and a couple of sundowners.
Overnight: Port Douglas | Breakfast, Lunch
Mossman Gorge & Rainforest walk
Enjoy a lie in, rise early for a morning jog or grab a fresh coffee from one of Port Douglas' many local brewers - the first part of the day is at leisure.
In the afternoon, an included visit to Mossman Gorge offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest on a scenic walk. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the fascinating culture, delectable cuisine, and unique customs of the Kuku Yalanji First Nations with an incredible and educational cultural experience.
Overnight: Port Douglas | Breakfast, Lunch
Daintree Rainforest exploring
Today is a significant day as we venture further into the renowned Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation on a short ferry ride. Keep your eyes peeled for the ancient cassowary, crocodiles and other native wildlife as we explore the rainforest. And you will also have an opportunity to meet the native family who graciously hosted the crew working on David Attenborough's documentary. We enjoy a farewell group dinner back in Port Douglas, as tonight is the final night of our trip.
Overnight: Port Douglas | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Cairns
Port Douglas - Cairns. Enjoy a final breakfast in Port Douglas before we make the drive south back to Cairns, where our tour comes to an end.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 4 travellers. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Holiday Inn Potts Point, Sydney
Guests at Holiday Inn Potts Point can enjoy sweeping views over Sydney Harbour and across Potts Point from this well-located 4-star hotel. It's a nice walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens to landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the hotel is right next to the train station with easy access to the city centre. It's also just 15 minutes by car from the airport. Rooms are bright and modern with large windows, and there is an onsite bistro restaurant and outdoor terrace. There's also a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi throughout.
The Lucky Hotel, Newcastle
Located in the heart of Newcastle and just a few minutes walk from the popular Wharf Road area, the recently renovated Lucky Hotel is a boutique hotel featuring 30 well-appointed rooms with modern furnishings and L'Occitane amenities. The onsite restaurant uses only fresh local ingredients and guests can enjoy a cocktail or beer in The Lounge bar and there is a pretty courtyard area for relaxation and in which to enjoy a drink. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property.
El Motor Inn, Port Macquarie
Located just a few metres from the beach in the heart of Port Macquarie and offering an outdoor pool and BBQ dining area, the El Motor Inn is a great option for exploring Port Macquarie. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and flat-screen TV, whilst some rooms also come with a balcony. Dining is at the onsite El Cafe restaurant, which is open for breakfast and serves Australian cuisine in the evening.
Byron Beachcomber Resort, Byron Bay
Just metres from the beach, Byron Beachcomber Resort has everything you could want for a stay in one of Australia's gems. The resort boasts a solar-heated saltwater pool, a hot tub and a free-to-use BBQ area. Accommodation is in a range of self-catering rooms and apartments decorated in neutral colours and equipped with TV, kitchenette, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. The front desk can help to arrange activities including surfing and snorkelling to fill your Byron Bay free time!
Rainbow Getaway Apartments, Rainbow Beach
Located in the rural beach town of Rainbow Beach, Rainbow Getaway Apartments are just 5 minutes from the beach and boast an outdoor pool, fitness centre and complimentary Wi-Fi. Self catering apartments are air-conditioned, with flatscreen TV, attached kitchen and private patios or balconies. Activities including dolphin feeding and horse riding on the beach can be arranged at the front desk.
The Point Brisbane Hotel, Brisbane
Located at Kangaroo Point and offering sweeping views of the Brisbane River, this well-located hotel comes equipped with a palm-fringed pool, fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. Australian cuisine is served at the onsite Lamberts Restaurant and a buffet breakfast is served daily, whilst there's also a bar and lounge for drinks. All rooms are ensuite, with air-conditioning, flat screen TV and a pillow menu for added comfort.
Mantra Club Croc, Airlie Beach
Located within a 5-minute drive of Airlie Beach and a 10-minute walk from the beach, Mantra Club Croc is housed in a traditional Queensland building and boasts a tropical atmosphere throughout. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas and there's an outdoor pool and spa, manicured gardens, a bar and bistro specializing in seafood for guests to enjoy. Palm trees rise up around the pool and the outdoor areas are lush and tropical. Accommodation is tasteful and modern, with private balconies in some rooms, air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, minifridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Adjoining rooms can also be accommodated on request.
Mission Beach Resort, Mission Beach
Just a 5-minute walk from bliss Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach Resort is equipped with four outdoor swimming pools set amongst tropical gardens. The Fernery Bistro is open for lunch and dinner, offering a range of Western cuisine, and there are two bars with pool table, gaming and other entertainment. Rooms all offer a private balcony featuring either pool or garden views. Rooms are ensuite with flat screen TV, fridge, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Crystalbrook Flynn, Cairns
One of the best accommodation options in Cairns, the Crystalbrook Flynn hotel offers 311 well-appointed rooms, many of which face out to the Coral Sea, equipped with balconies in which to enjoy the sunset. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout, rooms are equipped with an Apple iPad control centre and 55 inch TV. Guests can enjoy complimentary movies, blackout blinds, air-con and a Nespresso machine in their room. There are a range of dining and drinking options both at the hotel and on the nearby Cairns Esplanade boardwalk, and a glass swimming pool to enjoy.
Paradise Links Resort, Port Douglas
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Paradise Links Resort is a wonderful base in Port Douglas. When not out exploring, guests can unwind besides the two lagoon-style swimming pools, play tennis at the onsite court or browse their social media with complimentary Wi-Fi. Boutique accommodation is equipped with a patio or balcony, air-conditioning, Nespresso coffee machines, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
At a Glance
