Guide

AUSTRALIAN LEADERS: All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. In Australia your group leader is often also your driver, taking you from start to finish. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, as well as recommend great local eating venues. They will also introduce you to our local friends along the way. Please be aware they will be juggling many things on your tour and may have less time to spend with you. They will always be working hard to ensure you and your group have a fantastic time exploring Australia.

Meals

16 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle,Plane DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA: Australia is a BIG : country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that's why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

Accommodation

This is Comfort level trip and consists of a combination of hotels, private apartments and unique traditional Australian pub accommodation. All locations will have private ensuite bathrooms and linen and towels are supplied. Passengers travelling solo will be paired with another person of the same gender. A single supplement is also available for those wishing to have privacy throughout the trip. Where our hotel of preference is not available, we will arrange to stay at another of similar Comfort level standard. Hotel (7 nights),Motel (1 night),Pub hotel (1 night),Resort (8 nights)

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services are not included

Flights

International flights are not included

Optional

Other activities and services are not included

Insurance

Insurance is not included

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Sydney

Your adventure begins in Sydney (Warrane in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Sydney is now located). This is the iconic harbour city, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Make your own way to the joining hotel where you’ll meet your leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting in the lobby. Afterwards, head out to explore the historic area around the hotel before heading out for dinner. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to see and do – head down to Circular Quay and check out the world-famous Opera House, or if you’re feeling brave, opt to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Indigenous Storyteller as your guide to catch an epic view over this stunning city and learn about Aboriginal culture, languages and history of Sydney. For each climber a $20 donation will be made to Tribal Warrior, an Aboriginal-led not-for-profit organisation in Redfern in Sydney's Inner West. Alternatively, you might like to take the ferry over to Manly Beach for some sun, sea and surf – soaking up the panoramic view of the iconic Sydney cityscape as you cruise along the glittering waters.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2 Day 2: Hunter Valley / Newcastle
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Hunter Valley / Newcastle

Leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind for the chilled-out Hunter Valley – a picturesque wine region in the rural hills of New South Wales. On your way visit a wildlife sanctuary where a wildlife ranger will be keeping an eye out for koalas and kangaroos for you. Make your way to what the Hunter Valley is best known for – yes, there will be cheese, and wine, and chocolate (the Hunter is famous for it!). Continue your drive to Newcastle. It may only be a fraction the size of Sydney, but this beach side city is jam-packed with trendy bars and a buzzing arts scene. This evening why not head out for a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants or simply settle in at a friendly pub for a night of live, local music.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3 Day 3: Forster / Port Macquarie
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Forster / Port Macquarie

After a local breakfast, hit the scenic Lakes Way and witness epic coastal views at their best as you drive past spectacular beaches and lakeside communities. Hit the pristine waters of Wallis Lake on a lunch cruise and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great Lakes (approx. 2.5 hours). Continue on your way north and in the afternoon stretch your legs on a leisurely walk and climb to a lookout where you can take a moment to soak up panoramic vistas of New South Wales’ breathtaking shoreline. Continue your journey to Port Macquarie where you’ll spend the night.Accommodation: Motel
Day 4 Day 4: Port Macquarie / Dorrigo National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Port Macquarie / Dorrigo National Park

This morning, meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital (cute!). If you’re able to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, continue to the country town of Dorrigo via the spectacular Waterfall Way and Dorrigo National Park, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest, a remainder of the forests that once covered the ancient supercontinent of Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals which remained relatively unchanged from their ancestors over such a long period. See Dangar Falls and if time allows, take a refreshing dip in its cascading waters. Finish the day in true Aussie style in Dorrigo at a traditional pub where you can relax, order some grub, have a few drinks and even play some pool. Why not opt for an Aussie classic like a chicken ‘parma’, or the quintessential meat pie (tomato sauce optional, but recommended!).Accommodation: Pub Hotel
Day 5 Day 5: Orara State Forest / Byron Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Orara State Forest / Byron Bay

This morning head back towards the coast and be rewarded with a stop in Orara East State Forest (Niigi Niigi) to share in the unique and immersive Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land, lore and ancient cultural knowledge. Enjoy 360 degree views, experience speaking language and practice culture on Country. Next up is Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. On arrival, pay a visit to the local lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life (Get your eagle eye ready, or perhaps just bring binoculars). Then discover a side to Byron bay that not many visitors have the chance to experience: Enjoy a walk with Cockatoo Paul, a colourful local character, and learn about useful plants found in an urban environment: edible, medicinal and more. If you are lucky on the day, you can spot a small bat colony, and will also have the chance to learn how to make a fire by friction, and a useful demo on how to make a palm frond basket in the wildAccommodation: Hotel
Day 6 Day 6: Byron Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

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 so perhaps kick-start the morning with a swim in the ocean or hunt down the best cold-brew coffee from one of Byron’s quirky cafes. Stroll along the streets and check out the trendy boutiques or stretch out your limbs at an optional yoga class. If you’re a seafood fan, head to The Balcony Bar for some delicious oysters or simply enjoy a cocktail or two as you people-watch from the outdoor terrace. If the waves are right, why not try your hand at surfing or just loll about on the one of the endless beaches. It’s a hard life.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 7 Day 7: Brisbane / Noosa / Rainbow Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Brisbane / Noosa / Rainbow Beach

Rise and shine as you begin your drive from Byron Bay to 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). From Brisbane you'll head to sun-kissed Noosa (don't forget to bring your bathing suit), and go koala-spotting in Noosa National Park before heading to Rainbow Beach, our overnight location for the next two nights. Explore Rainbow Beach's massive Carlo Sandblow. 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 sandblow, marvel at this ever-changing landscape, transformed by wind. From the top you'll enjoy stunning 180-degree views over Rainbow Beach and 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.Accommodation: Resort
Day 8 Day 8: Fraser Island (K'Gari) / Rainbow Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Fraser Island (K'Gari) / Rainbow Beach

After breakfast, head over to stunning K'gari by ferry. In 2023 the island returned to it's tradiational name after being referred to as Fraser Island for many years. The original Butchulla people’s name for the island means 'paradise' and 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 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 Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) – 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.Accommodation: Resort
Day 9 Day 9: Airlie Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Airlie Beach

This morning transfer back to Brisbane Airport before boarding a flight to Proserpine, then transfer to Airlie Beach, the hub town of the magnificent Whitsundays and home to endless beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. You’ll arrive late in the afternoon, so after settling into your lodgings the evening is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll around and explore, or if the sun is still up why not visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you might feel more at home finding a seat at one of the many bars, grabbing a cocktail or two, and watching the sun set on the shimmering blue water.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 10 Day 10: Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach

Today is entirely free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-renowned 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, and at 98% pure silica, it’s about as white as a beach can get too. Peel your eyes away from the pristine sands and explore the colourful underwater world surrounding the Whitsundays on a snorkelling adventure. Get up close to a beautiful array of rainbow coral, playful fish and, if you’re lucky, maybe even some friendly turtles. Spend another night in this lively town.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 11 Day 11: Mission Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Mission Beach

Admire the change of scenery on today's long drive as you jump into your private vehicle and head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach, where World Heritage rainforest meets the colourful Coral Sea. Be welcomed by crystal-clear waters, stunning views and a large population of cassowaries – a flightless bird that thrives in the tropical forests of north-eastern Australia. This afternoon you can enjoy plenty of free time to soak up paradise and do as you please. You might like to wind down with an optional yoga class or go for a swim in the pool. Alternatively, head out in search of the famous cassowary or simply grab a book and find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the tropical bliss.Accommodation: Resort
Day 12 Day 12: Great Barrier Reef / Mission Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Great Barrier Reef / Mission Beach

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. 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 the 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. After an incredible day, head back to the hotel, where you can freshen up and get ready for dinner. Compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions.Accommodation: Resort
Day 13 Day 13: Atherton Tablelands / Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Atherton Tablelands / Cairns

Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before venturing into the wet tropics of far north Queensland. Stop off en route to your next destination and discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest. Take a dip in the cool water, then continue on to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful blue-green hues in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. Next, visit the unusual yet fascinating Curtain Fig Tree, a magnificent tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 metres to the forest floor, forming a curtain-like appearance. The day draws to a close as you head to your next stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.Accommodation: Hotel
Day 14 Day 14: Cairns / Kuranda / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Cairns / Kuranda / Port Douglas

After breakfast, chill out at your hotel, then join another group meeting at 11 am, where you’ll meet some new travellers joining you for the next stage of your adventure. With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to hit the road for Port Douglas, with a couple of stops en route to break up the journey. First up is a Barron Gorge lookout that looks over a set of tumbling falls bursting from the rainforest. Spend some time ooh-ing and ah-ing at the lookout, then continue to the town of Kuranda. This little mountain village is the perfect place to grab a quick lunch (not included), before hitting the road again at around 2 pm. Settle back into the vehicle for an approximately 1.5-hour drive along the coast to Port Douglas. In the early evening, take an orientation tour around Port Douglas. Stop at Trinity Bay lookout point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf in the twilight. Then you’re in for a real treat – hop aboard a riverboat for a guided cruise among the mangroves in search of wildlife, especially estuarine crocodiles. Finish the cruise with a gorgeous sunset, then head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to the resort for the evening.Accommodation: Resort
Day 15 Day 15: Daintree National Park / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Daintree National Park / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas

Grab breakfast and get ready in time to leave the resort at 8am, jumping on the ferry and crossing the river into the Daintree National Park. Meet up with a local family who live and breathe the rainforest, so much so that they hosted David Attenborough’s documentary crew when they were filming in the area. Spend some time learning from them about the forest, then continue exploring with a cruise along Cooper Creek. Your guide will point out crocodiles, birds and other wildlife while you glide through the water. Stop for an included lunch at a heritage restaurant smack-bang in the middle of the forest, then continue to Cape Tribulation. Take in views over the cape from a lookout, then head down to the beach for a walk and to learn about the region’s history. Return to the resort for the evening, where you can grab dinner at one of the restaurants within walking distance.Accommodation: Resort
Day 16 Day 16: Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Port Douglas

Enjoy a day to explore this tropical paradise at your own pace. There are tonnes of activities on offer today, so be sure to talk to your leader about your options when it comes to snorkelling, reef tours, and nature experiences. Your leader will also be on hand today to provide a transfer to Port Douglas town (and back) at 10 am and 6.30 pm if you want to spend the day shopping or grab dinner. If you’d prefer to move as little as possible, you could always take a day to unwind with spa treatments at the resort or chill by the pool with a book.Accommodation: Resort
Day 17 Day 17: Mossman Gorge / Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) / Port Douglas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Mossman Gorge / Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) / Port Douglas

Grab breakfast before leaving the resort at 8.15 am for a guided walk through the rainforest of Mossman Gorge. Work up an appetite on this gentle 1.5-hour hike, then grab morning tea (not included) before heading to Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) for an educational experience with a member of the local Kuku Yalanji community. Learn to throw a spear, which plants are edible and how Kuku Yalanji people live in harmony with the ever-shifting landscape. Enjoy lunch, then join an Aboriginal painting class in the afternoon. Learn about the significance of traditional and contemporary art and storytelling to First Nations people and leave with a small souvenir. Return to the resort in the early evening and enjoy a few free hours to relax. Grab dinner tonight with your group and toast to the beauty of the country around you.Accommodation: Resort
Day 18 Day 18: Port Douglas / Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Port Douglas / Cairns

Enjoy breakfast and time for one last swim before a 10 am departure for Cairns. We will make one drop-off stop at Cairns Airport and then continue back to Cairns where your trip comes to an end at approximately 12pm.

+15

18 days tour

East Coast Encompassed

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip East Coast Encompassed

Day 1: Sydney

Day 2: Hunter Valley / Newcastle

Day 3: Forster / Port Macquarie

Day 4: Port Macquarie / Dorrigo National Park

Day 5: Orara State Forest / Byron Bay

Day 6: Byron Bay

Day 7: Brisbane / Noosa / Rainbow Beach

Day 8: Fraser Island (K'Gari) / Rainbow Beach

Day 9: Airlie Beach

Day 10: Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach

Day 11: Mission Beach

Day 12: Great Barrier Reef / Mission Beach

Day 13: Atherton Tablelands / Cairns

Day 14: Cairns / Kuranda / Port Douglas

Day 15: Daintree National Park / Cape Tribulation / Port Douglas

Day 16: Port Douglas

Day 17: Mossman Gorge / Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) / Port Douglas

Day 18: Port Douglas / Cairns

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