Embark on an unforgettable journey from Sydney to Cairns, where you'll snorkel along the Great Barrier Reef, cruise the Whitsundays and see cuddly koalas up close. In the Hunter Valley, indulge in wine, cheese & chocolate tasting, hit the beach at Byron Bay and take an adrenalin-fuelled 4WD drive on Fraser Island. Opt for surfing or kayaking, relax on vibrant beaches, and venture into lush rainforests to spot wildlife. Dive into crystal-clear lakes and soak up the beauty of the Australian coastline.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Australia!
Our trip begins at Australia's lively Harbour City, a stunning city on the east coast. When you arrive, you will check into your room, freshen up, and then join your tour guide and other travelers for a welcome meeting and orientation stroll at 6 p.m. Following that, we will have a delightful welcome dinner, which will allow you to interact and get to know your trip companions better.
Overnight: Sydney | Dinner
Aussie wildlife, Hunter Valley & Newcastle
Sydney - Hunter Valley - Newcastle. We leave Sydney and head to a wildlife park filled with koalas, kangaroos, and other exotic species. Our tour here will be guided by a local ranger. Next, we head into the Hunter Valley, and take advantage of our surroundings by going on a wine, cheese, and chocolate tasting tour. Arriving in Newcastle, we enjoy a brief orientation tour before the evening is free for you to further explore at leisure.
Overnight: Newcastle | Breakfast
Port Macquarie koalas
Newcastle - Port Macquarie. After breakfast, we'll head to Port Macquarie to meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital. Joining our trip will provide you with vast knowledge about these endangered creatures while also supporting the center's extraordinary conservation efforts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Port Macquarie shoreline and find a local restaurant for dinner. Keep a look out for wild dolphins, as they are frequently seen in the vicinity.
Overnight: Port Macquarie | Breakfast
Byron Bay
Port Macquarie - Byron Bay. Today we enjoy an included interactive First Nations experience, allowing you to learn about the Gumbaynggirr people's rich culture. Connect with the land's traditional custodians to obtain a deeper understanding of their heritage.
It's then time to head to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf destination noted for its beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and friendly residents. Our tour includes a trip to Cape Byron, where you can photograph dolphins, whales (during their season), and other marine species.
Overnight: Byron Bay | Breakfast
Byron Bay free time
Today is entirely free for you to hit the beach or further explore Byron Bay. You can spend the morning on the warm sand, shopping for bargains, or participating in one of the area's many optional activities. Take some time to unwind, whether it be by putting your feet up, visiting a cozy bar, or taking a seaside walk to the Cape Byron lighthouse.
If you're feeling courageous and full of energy, our guide will help you plan any additional activities you're interested in, such as surfing classes, skydiving, balloon rides, or snorkelling/scuba diving.
Overnight: Byron Bay
Noosa National Park
Byron Bay - Noosa - Rainbow Beach. Today we are traveling to Noosa, a stunning beach area famed for its top surf spots and champion surfers. We will begin our day by shopping for locally manufactured arts and crafts at Eumundi Markets.
We will then explore Noosa National Park, a small, 28 square kilometer reserve home to koalas, bandicoot, possums and other Australian species. Depending on the time of year, you may also be able to see humpback whales off the coast. We arrive in the rural coastal town of Rainbow Beach, our base for the next two nights.
Overnight: Rainbow Beach | Breakfast
K'Gari (Fraser island)
Today we're exploring Fraser Island, recently renamed to its aboriginal name, K'Gari - this translated to 'paradise'. Our included four wheel drive experience sees us drive down the famous 75 Mile Beach Road. Keep a look out for the local dingoes as we travel, and then enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lake McKenzie.
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
Fly to Airlie Beach
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 cruise
Today we're enjoying a fun and picturesque 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
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 snorkelling
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 Farewell
Our tour concludes at Cairns, marking the end of an unforgettable voyage with your fellow tourists.
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.
At a Glance
