15 Days Cairns to Brisbane Explorer
Sleep under the stars, zip over dunes in a 4x4 on a remote sand island, sail from island to island through the Whitsundays on a maxi yacht, dive the Great Barrier Reef and see the best Queensland has to offer.
Travelling in small groups, we will be visiting the best of the east coast; Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands, Cape Tribulation & The Great Barrier Reef! All while eating great food, meeting new friends and having a magical time.
Due to availability, please try to book your package at least 30 days in advance. For dates available contact us directly.
- 3 Days Whitsunday Sailing
- 3 Days Fraser Island
- 2 Days Magnetic Island
- 2 Days Cape Tribulations
- 1 Day Great Barrier Reef
- 2 Nights in Cairns
- 2 Nights in Noosa Heads
- 2 Nights in Airlie Beach
- 2 Nights on Magnet Island
- Greyhound Bus Passes
- Experienced & Knowledge Guides
- Meals & Equipment
- Taxes & Fees
- Trip length:
- 15 Days
- Group size:
- Max 21
- Start:
- Cairns
- End:
- Brisbane
- Vehicle:
- Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
- Sleep:
- Hostel, Boat, Camping
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
How it works:
Our incredible east coast packages are made up of a combination of various tours, accommodation and bus routes. You'll be travelling independently between each town using our amazing greyhound bus network that we'll book and organise for you.
We plan out your entire trip to help you save money and time and take away the fuss of making sure everything fits together seamlessly.
We'll be staying in some of Australia's best hostels and exploring iconic destinations such as Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef with amazing guides and other likeminded travellers. No time is wasted and every dollar goes towards maximising your experience!
Day 1-2: 2 Day Cape Tribulation & Daintree Tour
Day 1
Today at 7am we head off to the magnificent Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest - a must for any traveller to Australia. Experience the magical culture of the ancient Rainforest that grows right down to the edge of the sea and stand in awe of the meeting of 2 UNESCO World Heritage listed sites.
Explore waterfalls, rainforest and wildlife in this spectacular area. You will be swimming in pristine waterfalls like Josephine Falls, get your hair flock photo taken at Milla Milla Falls (So nice they named it twice) and swim in an ancient crater lake called Lake Eacham surrounded by lush rainforest just to name a few..
Later that afternoon we will arrive in Yungaburra and here you will spend the night at the beautiful “On the Wallaby Eco Lodge”.
Your accommodation offers dormitory style rooms (upgrade to private rooms available) on the Atherton Tablelands. With lovely home cooked meals and after dinner we will take you on Australia’s one & only night canoeing trip.
Spot amazing wildlife and be closer to the stars on Lake Tinaroo.
Day 2
After a delicious breakfast we head towards the Daintree National Park via Granite Gorge Nature Park where you will come up close with Australian wildlife.
All your meals are included and freshly made prior to your arrival, enjoy the the croc cruise on the mighty Daintree River, rainforest walks, a swim in our private swimming hole tucked in the rainforest, beach walks and finishing the afternoon in Port Douglas.
Arrive back to your accommodation in Cairns at approximately 5pm.
Acitivites: 2 Day Cape Tribulation Tour
Food: Meals as mention
Accommodation: Cape Tribulation Hostel
Day 3: Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Make your way to the reef fleet terminal at 7.30am for a 8am departure. Today you will experience 5 hours on the Great Barrier Reef at a spectacular location. A large modern sleek computer stabilized vessel provides a superior ride in all weather conditions, and no big crowds with exclusive protected reef locations. Keep an eye out for 6 of the 7 species of sea turtles in the world, as well as sharks, Nemo and some uber-impressive coral! Professional, friendly and attentive staff ensures a safe and enjoyable fun-filled experience. The boat will drop you back off at the terminal in Cairns at approximately 4:45pm. Upgrade to an Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive for $50. One more nights accommodation is supplied in Cairns to rest up before we head out on our next adventure!
Acitivites: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Cairns Hostel
Day 4-6: Travel to Magnetic Island
Today the bus departs Cairns Bus Terminal at 8:15 am and will take you straight to the Townsville ferry terminal at 2:15pm so you can catch the ferry over to magical Magnetic Island.
Present your ticket and jump on the next ferry. These run every 30-60 minutes, no need to book. While on Magnetic Island you have 2 nights dormitory accommodation, Koala Sanctuary guided 2 hour tour, Souvenir koala photo and cuddle, full day snorkel gear hire and rock wallaby food to feed the locals. There is also a chance to hire a plastic barbie car for over 21's to drive around the island!
Magnetic Island is also home to some of the cheapest PADI Open Water Diving Courses in Australia - if you'd like to extend your stay and learn to dive, let us know!
Accommodation: Magnetic Island Hostel
Day 6: Travel to Airlie Beach
Time to hop back over to Townsville on the ferry to catch your bus to Airlie Beach which departs at 2:15pm. You will arrive in Airlie Beach at 7pm, just enough time to get acquainted and checked into your hostel. Get a good nights sleep as tomorrow will be a busy day!
Accommodation: Cairns Hostel
Day 7-9: 3 Day Whitsundays Adventure Sailing Tour
Departing Abel Point Marina at 2pm you will set sail for 2 days and 2 nights of adventure!
You will visit the most famous places in the Whitsundays, including the spectacular Whitehaven Beach. Stroll along the impossibly white sand beach and go up to the lookout for an idyllic view of the swirling sands. Snorkel the fringing coral reefs surrounding you, such as Langford Reef, Hook Island and Border Island and soak up the sun from one of the 74 Island wonders that make up the Whitsundays.
You will return on the 3rd day at 11am to Abel Point Marina and you can head back to your hostel for your final nights accommodation. Then it's out for dinner and drinks with your boat crew in one of Airlie Beach's many bars and restaurants.
Activities: 3 Day Whitsunday Island Sailing Tour
Food: All Meals
Accommodation: Day 7 & 8 - Cabin on a sailing vessel
Day 19 - Hostel in central Airlie Beach
Day 10: Travel to Noosa
This is a day to relax by the incredible lagoon and discover the nightlife Airlie Beach has to offer. Ask us about fun things to do in Airlie - from paddleboarding to scenic flights and Island escapes, it has it all!
Tonight we head off on an overnight bus to Noosa at 6:55pm, stock up on snacks and a good book!
Accommodation: Overnight Bus
Day 11: Noosa Paradise
You will arrive in Noosa this afternoon at 12:40pm, you have this day free to explore the little beachside town of Noosa. There are a variety of water sports available to try at one of Australias best beaches, which is also home to Noosa Surf Festival. Or if walking is your thing there is a huge coastal National Park to explore with chances to see resident Dolphins and Turtles. Cruise the Everglades or learn to surf, up to you! Tonights accommodation in Noosa is just 5 mins away from the beautiful beach - another good night sleep needed to prepare for tomorrow.
Accommodation: Noosa Hostel
Day 12, 13 and 14 Pristine Fraser Island (2B,3L,2D)
Today at 7am we start our K’gari (Fraser Island) 3-day adventure.
Day 1: Depart Noosa
Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile Beach - K'gari's (Fraser Island) own highway with speed limits! There, you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (at your own cost) for morning tea. From here, the adventure really begins as we drive to the famous Lake McKenzie, one of the most popular and picturesque highlights of K'gari (Fraser Island). We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear lake waters before driving up the beach to your campsite around 3:00 pm. Settle in for an early dinner, well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!
Day 2: K'gari (Fraser Island)
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on K'gari (Fraser Island)! First stop is Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a relaxing swim. Travelling north, stop at Maheno Shipwreck for a photo opportunity and a short history lesson about this famous K'gari (Fraser Island) icon before continuing on past Indian Head to the stunning Champagne Pools for a dip. Lunch is served at either Maheno Shipwreck or Champagne Pools on Day 2, depending on time constraints, safety and beauty. In the afternoon, travel back to camp for dinner and drinks.
Day 3: Return to Noosa
Start with breakfast before cleaning and disassembling your campsite. Once packed up, you'll drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk where you'll stride through the dunes to find a tropical paradise! Lunch follows your trip to Lake Wabby before you begin the drive down the beach and back to the barge. Once arrived on the mainland, head to the 4WD shed where you can unpack and quickly clean the cars. You will return to Freedom Hostel between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
Activities: 3 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour
Food: All Meals
Accommodation:
Day 12 & 12 - K'gari campsite
Day 14 - Hostel in Noosa
Day 15: Noosa to Brisbane
We leave Noosa at 10:10am with a ride from your hostel to the Junction to catch the bus to busstling Brisbane. We arrive at 12:30pm at the Transit Centre which is a 5 minute walk to most hostels. Here you are free to explore Brissy, take a dip in the lagoon or go for lunch along the river.
This is where our journey ends as we leave you with a head full of memories and friendships that will last a lifetime!
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes
- Warm jacket and long pants
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Chargers
- Torch
- Camera
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Private 4x4 excursion on Fraser Island
- Sailing in the Whitsundays. Visit to Whitehaven Beach
- Ferry to Magnetic Island
- Boat ride out the Great Barrier Reef
- Drive up to Cape Tribulation
- All Greyhound Bus Passes along the east coast
ACCOMMODATION
- Hostels (10 nts), beachside permanent tented camp (2 nts), maxi yacht (2 nts). All nights multi-share.
- Transfers
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- Included on Fraser Island
- Included on Whitsundays Boat
- Included on Great Barrier Reef Boat
- Morning and Afternoon tea in Cape Tribulation
EQUIPMENT
- Blankets and sheets
- Sleeping Mattress
- Pillows
- Snorkel gear on Magnetic Island, Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How much luggage can I bring along the East Coast?
You can bring is much as luggage as you like. However, during each tour on the east coast, whether its a 2 day Fraser tour or a 3 Day Whitsunday tour, there will be luggage restrictions - generally to around 10-15kg per person. In these scenarios, you'll be able to leave the bulk of your luggage at your hostel/hotel whilst you're on tour.
Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?
During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.
If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.
Where can I do laundry?
Each hostel and hotel we book you into will have laundry facilities you can use.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.
Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.
However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.
If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.
Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
How do I know what date this package is available?
Since these packages are made up of a wide variety of different hotels, tours and transport we need to check that all these things are available one after another from the starting date you need. Although our calendar says that you can go any day you like, please contact us directly so that we can piece it all together for you and reconfirm that everything is ok.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
How many people will be on tour?
Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
Cost and Fees
Are there any additional costs?
Whilst you are on the various tours we book for you, you do not need to pay anything extra. All food, accommodation, transport and equipmenet will be provided for you. When you are not on a tour, the only additional costs you need prepare for is food and drink. Accommodation and transport along the east coast will be covered for.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Whilst on tour
Where do we stay during our journey?
During our tours we stay in a wide variety of different styles of accommodation. All accommodation are run my friendly and hospitable locals who's job it is to make sure you enjoy your stay. Acommodation varies between hostels, hotels, camping to sleeping on boats! So please check your itinerary for exact details.For those who'd like more privacy, we may be able to upgrade to twin or double rooms with private facilities. Just ask!
What will the food be like?
Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve picnic sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner - This can vary between pastas, bbqs, rices and other hearty food to keep you energized! We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations.
What vehicle will we use to explore?
We will be using everything from trains to boats, to buses and in some cases, even a horse! For more specific information on what transportation you'll be on please refer back to your itinerary. Whatever it is though, it will be lots of fun.
What is the weather like on the east coast?
The east coast of Australia is an extremely long piece of coastline and it traverses very different weather patterns, from the temperate south in Sydney to the tropical north in Cairns. Irrespective of the season, In summer, if you are travelling between Sydney and Cairns, you are probably going to either experience wetter more humid weather nearer Cairns. In winter months, clear and dry conditions near cairns and cooler and wetter weather nearer Sydney.
Will I travel with the same people the whole time?
No. This itinerary is made up of various different tours and accommodation. You may run into the same people as you travel along the east coast, however, each tour will have new people who will likely be moving to different cities and destinations after their trip.
How do I travel between destinations?
All destinations such as Noosa Head, Cairns, Airlie Beach, Brisbane etc are connected together using the greyhound bus network. We'll book all your passes for you and provide you with the meeting locations and times. These will be in coordination with your tours and accommodation so that its easy for you to meet each bus to get to your next destination.
What happens if I miss the bus?
If you miss your bus please contact us immediately via phone or email. We'll need to try and push back your other tours and accommodation that we can not gaurantee that this is possible. In most cases, if you miss your bus you may end up missing out on the next tour that we planned for you.