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14 Day East Coast Tour - Sydney to Cairns
Starting in cosmopolitan Sydney and finishing in tropical Cairns, this adventure tour travels up the east coast, taking you to some of the most popular and beautiful places in Australia and getting you to places you will never get to driving yourself or on a bus pass.
Travelling in a small group of like-minded people and professional, experienced guides you will get to experience the ‘real’ Australia and meet some true Aussie locals.
Our tours are nature-based with the emphasis on the unique scenery, wildlife and Aboriginal culture of each area and they cater for everyone from the fit and adventurous to those who prefer the sound of ‘soft adventure’ and more comfortable facilities!
We use new model, purpose-built and selected vehicles with large windows and forward facing seating to enjoy the scenery.
On most of our tours we utilise campsites with permanently erected tents, fridges and shower/toilet facilities for your comfort. Tours that do not have these features are designed as such to take you to the most remote locations and escape the crowds. Our accommodation houses (including hostels, motels, sheep & cattle stations and wilderness lodges) are often exclusive to our clients. Some are owned by us to give you private experiences that are not available to others.
Meals included where indicated – B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner.
Day 1: Sydney to Surf Camp
Today we head to our secluded surf camp, located beachside to spectacular white sandy beaches on the Coffs Coast (approximately 5 hours north of Sydney). Here we meet up with the crew from Mojo Surf (some of Australia's best surf instructors) whose mission is to get you standing on a board by the end of this trip! You will start with a theory lesson on surfing and then it’s straight out to the beach to get you on a board. If surfing isn’t for you perhaps sunbake on the crystal white sands or take a walk around the beautiful headland.
When your afternoon of surfing or relaxing on the beach is complete, hang out and have dinner back at the Mojo Beach House. (B & D)
Day 2: Surf Camp to Brisbane via Byron Bay
After a delicious breakfast, hit the beach again for your morning surf lesson. By now you should have the basic surf techniques sorted and some aspiring surfers in the group will be turning at the base of clean breaking waves by the end of this lesson! Everyone who participates in surf school will be given a progressive surf certificate before heading north along the coast to Byron Bay. Admire the coastal views at Australia’s most Easterly point; the Byron lighthouse.
From Byron Bay you will travel via the Gold Coast to Brisbane, stopping off to try one of the craziest adventure activities ever developed by the Kiwis – zorbing. Roll down a hill in a 3.5 metre plastic ball filled with warm water for a huge amount of fun, and then continue on to Brisbane. (B)
Day 3: Brisbane to Rainbow Beach
This morning we take a short break at the spectacular lookout at Wild Horse Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast overlooking Noosa and Mooloolaba, before arriving at Rainbow Beach; a vibrant young coastal town, with glistening coloured sands and a relaxed atmosphere. In the afternoon we participate in a sea kayak trip to paddle amongst wild dolphins at Double Island Point.
If you are lucky you may also see turtles and thousands of soldier crabs. This evening relax in our accommodation, located just 100 metres from the beach. (D)
Days 4 - 5: 2 Day Fraser Island Tour
Spend the next two days exploring Fraser Island on a ranger guided 4WD safari with Fraser Explorer, staying at Eurong Resort. You will drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, visit Lakes’ Wabby and Mackenzie, Eli Creek, the Maheno Wreck and climb Indian Head. Return to Rainbow Beach for an overnight stay. (Day 4: L & D, Day 6: B, L & D)
Day 6: Rainbow Beach to Kroombit Cattle Station
This morning take part in a cultural demonstration from your guide, learning about the didgeridoo, boomerang and spear throwing, and the Rainbow Serpent. After a few hours at Rainbow Beach we head inland through cattle country to Kroombit Cattle Station. Here we experience genuine outback living with the chance to ride a mechanical bull and take a walk of the property. Tonight you will taste a traditional camp oven dinner, cooked in the open fire. (D)
Day 7: Kroombit Cattle Station
Today is jam-packed with wonderful activities also included in the price of your tour. Learn first-hand about Queensland farming life as you participate in a “muster” on horseback, try your skill at trap-shooting and witness a mini-rodeo as animals are herded into the ring. This evening enjoy another hearty camp-oven dinner and re-live your days experiences around the campfire with a beer from the bush bar. (B, L & D)
Day 8: Kroombit to Carnarvon Gorge
This morning, start the day with a hearty bush breakfast, before heading further inland through Central Queensland’s remote outback to the little known jewel of Carnarvon National Park. Carnarvon Gorge, central to this park is a remarkable natural attraction with 30kms of walking trails, 200 species of birds, ancient plants and Aboriginal rock-art dating back 3,500 years. This afternoon we will get a taste of the gorge with a short walk amongst the numerous kangaroos and wallabies that inhabit the area. Stay overnight in the heart of the National Park in our permanent canvas cabins. (B & D)
Day 9: Carnarvon Gorge
Chances are that you’re sleep will be broken this morning by the many birds that live amongst trees surrounding the camp. After breakfast you will spend the full day hiking through the many walking trails scattered throughout this magnificent gorge. Walks are mostly of easy grade and therefore suitable for all ages and fitness levels, however the options are varied. You will see 500 year old cycads, grass trees and eucalypts, native wildlife and learn about the indigenous ancestors that inhabited this region for more than 3500 years. See the best examples of rock-art in Queensland, made from the ochre taken from the region. After a days exercise, you will return to our tented cabins for a good nights sleep within this wilderness region. (B, L & D)
Day 10: Carnarvon Gorge to Mackay Region
We start early today for our big drive from Carnarvon Gorge to the Mackay region, breaking the journey at the small sugar township of Sarina to try our hand at ‘barefoot bowling’; lawn bowls Aussie style! This is the first time we’ve hit the coast in four days and we now follow the coast to arrive at the Whitsunday gateway of Mackay. Overnight in the Mackay region. (B)
Days 11-13: Whitsunday Sailing
You will have the opportunity to sun-bathe, snorkel and swim whilst exploring the idyllic Whitsunday Islands on a yacht worth millions of dollars.
Visit the many beaches, coves and islands on this two and a half day sailing trip, with the opportunity to hoist the sails and even take the wheel. Note that you will sleep on the boat, moored in quiet coves. Cabins are share only; no twin and doubles for these two nights. In the morning of day 14 you will return to the mainland and drive north through Townsville to our overnight stop at the beautiful beach town of Mission Beach; home of Australia’s famous flightless bird, the cassowary. (Day 11: L & D, Day 12: B, L & D Day 13: B)
Day 14: Mission Beach to Cairns via the ‘Tablelands’
Departing Mission Beach we head for the South Johnstone Crocodile Farm to learn more about the most feared animal in Northern Australia; the estuarine or saltwater crocodile. Spend a couple of hours learning how this prehistoric animal has survived and flourished in Australia’s harsh north and see large crocodiles up close and personal. From here we set out to explore the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy a guided bush walk through towering rainforest, tropical farmland and take a dip in crater lakes and beautiful waterfalls. As we arrive into Cairns, you will be able to cherish the many great experiences of Australia’s East Coast. (D)
Fitness
A basic level of fitness is required for this tour; there will be hikes of up to 5 kms a day.
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes, flip flops/sandals, hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, swimming gear/beach towel, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, money for meals not included, optional activities and listed fees. There is a STRICT LUGGAGE LIMIT of 15kgs per person, in a backpack or soft bag.
Please Note
- Itinerary may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal conditions and National Park requirements. Carnarvon Gorge is known for flooding at random times throughout the year and during these times it is inaccessible by road due to high river crossings. Carnarvon Gorge may be substituted with activities in the Rockhampton and Whitsunday region.
- *Fraser Island fee is not included and payable upon arrival (AUD$14). Whitsunday Sailing does not include Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax) and other fees, payable upon arrival (AUD $32).
Cost
£1099
Start Dates
Sydney to Cairns.
All year round – departs on Sundays – please speak to a travel advisor for specific dates.
Cairns to Sydney.
All year round – departs Wednesdays – please speak to a travel advisor for specific dates.
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