17 Day Boutique Sydney to Cairns Tour

To commence our journey, we start your Sydney to Brisbane tour in Australia’s Harbour City, the glittering jewel in Australia East Coast’s crown. Make your own way to our joining the hotel. At 6pm meet your guide in hotel reception for a welcome meeting. This afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the local area and a multicultural welcome dinner with your small group tour. Get to know some of your fellow travellers embarking on this adventure around Australia East Coast. (D)

On day 2 of our 8 day Sydney to Brisbane tour, we leave behind Sydney’s skyscrapers and sidewalks for a wildlife park boasting an all-star cast of koalas, kangaroos, and more guided by our own personal wildlife ranger. All of a sudden, we’re in the heart of the Hunter Valley, so there’s nothing better than to take a wine, cheese and chocolate tasting tour. Also, we’ll visit the sunny port city of Newcastle, rounding off an eclectic day with local live music (When available). (B)

It’s all about water today. We hit the scenic Lakes Way for a coastal walk and lookout climb. Afterwards, we’re off to Port Macquarie in time for a up close and personal experience where you will me local volunteers and learn about the incredible work they do to support the local and endangered Koalas. We contribute to their efforts and you will leave with knowledge and understanding. (B)

This morning we head back towards the coast, to share in a unique and immersive Gumbaynggirr first nations experience that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land, lore and ancient cultural knowledge. Next, we’re headed to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. We will be paying a visit to the local lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance for the eagle-eyed to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life. (B)

Today we’re talking relaxation, relaxation, and relaxation. Day 5 of our Sydney to Brisbane East Coast Australia tour is all yours. Spend the morning on the warm sand, shopping for bargains, or indulge in one of our optional activities surfing, kayaking or get a relaxing massage. In the afternoon, put your feet up, head to a cozy bar, or watch the world go by from one of the local cafes.

Optional: Surf lesson, kayak experience

Your first stop is laid-back Noosa, and Noosa National Park where you will have the chance to spot koalas in the wild and other native Australian fauna in its natural habitat. Then head to Rainbow Beach, our overnight location for the next two nights. Explore Rainbow Beach’s massive Carlo Sand blow. Take a path through eucalypt stands and rainforest to reach this huge accumulation of windblown sand known as the Cooloola sandmass. As you cross the sand blow, marvel at this ever-changing landscape, transformed by wind. From the top you’ll enjoy stunning 180-degree views over Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island (K’gari). This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland’s southern coast and tomorrow you’ll head out to explore it in depth, so get a good night’s rest ready for a day of adventure. (B)

After breakfast, head over to stunning Fraser Island (K’gari) by ferry. In 2021 Fraser Island had been officially renamed K’gari, the original Butchulla people’s name for the island, meaning ‘paradise’ – you’ll find out why soon enough. The name change is a major milestone in a long running campaign by the Butchulla people. Set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island (K’gari). Start off with an adventurous drive along the 75 Mile Beach Road – one of the best coastal drives in the country. Take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora) – an island icon.The lake is world famous for its turquoise colours and fine dazzling white 92% pure silica sands. Next up is Wanggoolba Creek, a pristine rainforest with prehistoric ferns and a luxuriant canopy of palms and vines. Take another dip, this time in the fresh waters of Eli Creek. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters – witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach, in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo. This evening return by ferry back to Rainbow Beach. (B, L)

We are off to Queensland’s capital, Brisbane! (Meeanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located). After we check into our accomodation, enjoy an afternoon orientation walk along the Brisbane River and experience this vibrant and fast growing city (Summer olympics will be hosted here soon!). (B)

After breakfast we are heading to Brisbane Airport; It’s up, up, and away, as we take the plane to Airlie beach, hub of the magnificent Whitsundays. You get the chance to take the reins today; whether you want to stroll through the town, find a cool bar, or explore the local swimming hole, the choice is all yours! (B).

After breakfast, you have the option to relax for the day or head out on an optional adventure! Why not take an award winning day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the famed Whitehaven beach. Words don’t do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters, and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world. Get a closer look by snorkelling with colourful coral, and an array of playful fish and turtles. There are many other activities you can choose from and your guide can help book it in for you when the tour starts (B).

A change of scenery today as we head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach in a private vehicle. We’ll have the perfect day to enjoy paradise this afternoon with free time as we arrive onto crystal clear waters and stunning views. Grab a book, have a swim in the pool, or just sit and enjoy the tropical bliss.(B)

Enjoy breakfast before we travel into the wet tropics of Far North Queensland. We’ll discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest en-route to the Atherton Tablelands. Take a dip in the cool water before we head to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with crystal-clear water, and visit the massive ‘Curtain Fig Tree’. We’ll finish the day in Cairns, one of Australia’s most vibrant, tropical and energetic cities. (B)

It is true to say, the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef is on the bucket list of many travellers who venture to this incredible corner of Australia. in fact, The Great Barrier Reef is brimming with colourful coral and an amazing array of tropical fish, and today you’ll get to witness its magnificence with your own eyes on a snorkelling adventure through this underwater paradise. Cruise out to this famous reef this morning as you hear a marine conservation commentary about the importance of preserving this World Heritage-listed region and how you can do your bit. Then, it’s time to put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the dazzling waters, where you can freely explore a wonderfully rich ecosystem. (B)

After breakfast we are heading north with a short drive to Kuranda for an amazing gondola ride over the tropical north Queensland Rainforest. Enjoy a historic train ride enroute to Port Douglas. Enjoy a stunning sunset and dinner in tropical paradise (B)

Enjoy a slow morning and some free to explore the vibrant Port Douglas markets. In the afternoon, visit the sacred Mossman Gorge with a guided walk through incredible rainforest. Later you will Learn about Kuku Yalanji (First Nations) culture, foods, custom with a local tour experience. (B)

An exciting day ahead as we go further into the tropical Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation! We take a short ferry ride crossing the river into the Daintree Rainforest. Get ready, as we meet up with a local family who live and breathe the rainforest, so much that they hosted David Attenborough’s documentary crew when they were filming in the area. Keep an eye out for the ancient bird, the cassowary. We spend some time learning from them about the forest, then continue exploring with a stop at famous Cape Tribulation, a nature cruise to spot crocodiles, birds and other wildlife while you glide through the water. (B)

Enjoy breakfast and a last stunning drive via the north beaches en-route to Cairns. This is the end of your Sydney to Cairns East Coast Encompassed Tour. (B)