Sydney to Cairns Northbound
14 days from Sydney to Cairns
From $ 4029
Duration14 days
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Walking? Wilderness? Wildlife? Wine? Enjoy them all – along with pristine beaches and delicious food – on this active east coast adventure. Explore Australia’s stunning east coast, taking in the iconic sights of Byron Bay, Fraser Island and the Great Barrier Reef, as you make your way from continental Sydney to tropical Cairns. Sample wine and cheese in the Hunter Valley, get up close to koalas at an animal hospital, splash about in pristine swimming holes, and cruise around the picture-perfect islands of the Whitsundays.

This tour is operated by

  • Duration: 14 days
    Service level: Upgraded
  • Starts in: Sydney
    Physical Grading: Light
  • Ends in: Cairns
    Ages: 8+
Sydney to Cairns Northbound - Tour Map

Itinerary

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Day 1: Sydney

Start place: Sydney

Your East Coast Australia tour experience starts in Australia's Harbour City, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Make your own way to our joining hotel, where we meet this afternoon at 2pm in the lobby for a welcome meeting. Head out to to explore this historic area around the hotel and then onto dinner.
If you arrive into Sydney a few days early,  check out the great range of Urban Adventures on offer.
Meals: D
Day 2: The Hunter Valley & Newcastle
Leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind for the chilled out Hunter Valley. Our own personal wildlife ranger will point out koalas and kangaroos as we make our way to lunch – yes, there will be cheese, and wine, and chocolate (the Hunter is famous for it!). Continue to the beach side city of Newcastle, a friendly pub and hopefully an evening of live, local music.
Meals: B
Day 3: Port Macquarie
It's all about water today. After an amazing local breakfast, we hit the scenic Lakes Way for a coastal walk and lookout climb. Afterwards, we're off to Port Macquarie in time for a sunset cruise. Keep an eagle eye out for local pods of dolphins.
Meals: B
Day 4: Dorrigo National Park
We start by meeting the volunteers at a local koala hospital. If you’re able to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, you’ll be rewarded with a stop in Nambucca Heads 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. We finish the day in true Aussie style in the Dorrigo National Park: at a traditional pub where you can relax, order some grub, have a few drinks and even play some pool
Meals: B
Day 5: Dorrigo National Park - Byron Bay
It’s off to Dangar Falls for a refreshing dip in its cascading waters. We visit Dorrigo National Park, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest and waterfalls. Once dry, 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. We’ll finish the afternoon by popping to an organic farm where we’ll pick and prepare a healthy dinner
Meals: B, D
Day 6: Byron Bay
Get up early or sleep late, sunrises are pretty ace at from Australia's most easterly point, but the choice is yours. It’s a free day today. Perhaps start the day with a swim in the ocean, indulge in a massage, or stretch out your limbs at an optional yoga class. Otherwise take a stroll around town and check out what all the fuss is about. Today is the last full day of your trip before we head into QLD tomorrow after breakfast.
Day 7: Brisbane to Noosa
The adventure begins in the the beautiful Byron Bay. From there we travel through Brisbane to sun-kissed Noosa, visiting one of Australia’s top surf locations en route. Go koala-spotting in a national park, then head to a coastal lookout to take in a magnificent sunset over the Sunshine Coast hinterland. In the evening, relax and unwind, or perhaps head out on the town for some dinner and drinks.
Meals: B
Day 8: Fraser Island and Noosa
Set off on a 4WD adventure on Fraser Island. This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland's southern coast. Take a dive into a crystal clear lake, and head out in search of that most iconic outback creature, the dingo. When it's all over, relax back at your accommodation or soak up some of Noosa's vibrant nightlife.
Meals: L
Day 9: Airlie Beach
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!
Meals: B
Day 10: Whitsundays Cruise and Airlie Beach
After breakfast, take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the famed Whitehaven beach. Words can’t do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world. Whitehaven is about as impressive as a beach can get! Get a closer look by snorkelling with colourful coral and an array of playful fish and turtles.
Meals: B, L
Day 11: Mission Beach
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.
(approximately 520kms/ 325 miles, 6 hours)
Meals: B
Day 12: Atherton Tableands - Cairns
Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before travelling into the wet tropics of Far North Queensland. Here you'll discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest en route to Atherton Tablelands. Take a dip in the cool water, then head to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful water. Also pay a visit to the massive, unique, heritage-listed ‘Curtain Fig Tree’. The day draws to a close in Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.
Meals: B
Day 13: The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the highlights of any trip to Australia. Cruise over to this famous reef and enjoy some snorkelling and a marine conservation commentary. After an extraordinary day in this underwater world, brimming with amazing coral and dazzling tropical fish, freshen up at the hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner. It’s a chance to compare memories, swap stories, and say farewell to your travel companions.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 14: Cairns
Trip ends after breakfast. Enquire about booking some extra nights in cairns for further exploration of this tropical paradise.

End place: Cairns

Meals: B

Inclusions

Included

  • Hunter Valley wine, cheese, chocolate and organic vodka distillery tour
  • Wildlife Park
  • Port Macquarie sunset cruise
  • Dangar Falls
  • Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal experience
  • Koala Hospital - Port Macquaire
  • Byron Bay farm to plate organic dinner
  • Fraser Island 4WD day trip
  • Flight Brisbane to Airlie Beach
  • Whitsunday Islands sailing
  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise

  • Transport

    private bus, plane

  • Accommodation

    Hotel (11 nights), Motel (1 night), Pub (1 night)

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