Not Available - 22 Days Sydney to Cairns

Map View Full Details Reviews

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 the East Coast has to offer.

Travelling in small groups, we will be visiting the best of the East Coast; Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Forest & Cape Tribulation. All the while eating great food, meeting new friends and have a great time.

Includes

16 nights hostel accommodation
3 day 2 night Fraser Island tour
2 night Whitsundays Sailing tour
Byron Bay Sea Kayak
Surfers Paradise

Great Barrier Reef snorkel trip
Choose your own transport
Souvenir Koala photo and cuddle
Magnetic Island

Trip length:: 22 Days
Group size:: Max 24-48
Start:: Sydney
End:: Cairns

Vehicle:: Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
Sleep:: Hostel, Boat, Camping
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

Meet your guide

Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

See Map

Day 1 Bye Bye Sydney

Get prepared to say goodbye to the big city. We will meet at Bay 17 Pitt Street to board the overnight Premier bus to Byron Bay at 6.45pm.

Day 2 Byron Bay Bliss

Arrive at Byron Bay bus terminal in the centre of town at 9am. You will be collected by your hostel, the Arts Factory and once you have checked in and dropped off your bags you are free to recover from your bus ride and explore the local sites. Byron is famous for it's laid back lifestyle, hippy culture and ofcourse the famous lighthouse from Round the Twist! Byron Bay lighthouse is a sight not to be missed, the most easternly point in Australia and looks out onto a gorgeous marine park full of turtles, dolphins and the occasional whale!

Day 3 Sea Kayak

This morning you will be picked up from your hostel for a sea kayak adventure. Paddling up close with dolphins, whales and turtles in Cape Byron's Marine National Park and learning the local Aboriginal stories in your own kayak or share paddling duties with a friend. You have the afternoon free for more exploring or just to chill out with your new friends.

Day 4 Free Day

Today you can choose from one of the optional extras: Nimbin or Surfing!

Nimbin day tour - $40

We visit a secret waterfall that only the locals know about, where you can often spot wildlife from the area including turtles, fish, lizards and goannas. We visit a country pub for some quick refreshments/snacks. On the way to Nimbin you will see Nimbin rocks, a sacred site to the Bundjalung people of the area. In Nimbin we prepare a gourmet burger, (catering also for vegetarians), at the Nimbin bowling club - so the tourists can mingle with the locals and enjoy a drink or 2 from the bar. At the BBQ there is an opportunity for our passengers to swim in the local swimming pool (sesonal) right next to the BBQ area, which is free of charge as well.

Half day surf lesson - $69

A half day experience on a guided road trip to a pristine and uncrowded beach. All surfboards, wetsuits, rashies, sunscreen & water provided! Surf safety, ocean awareness & local knowledge. All Surf coaching is progressive so you’ll always learn something new!

Now it's your last night in Byron so throw caution to the wind and enjoy the relaxed nightlife on offer!

Day 5 Welcome to Surfers Paradise

Depart Byron Bay at 8.55am outside the information centre (the same place you were dropped off). The bus will arrive in Surfers Paradise at 11am, your hostel is a short 2 minute walk from the bus stop and only 250 meters from the famed Gold Coast beach. You will be conveniently located in the heart of the city that never sleeps. Check out the endless golden beaches and watch the waves roll in or do a spot on retail therapy in the gigantic shopping complexes. It really has everything, from old school Cowboy themed photoshoots to bubbling games rooms, aswell as being the night life capital on the coast.

Day 6 It's a Dreamworld!

Today you are given the option for a free day to explore Surfers Paradise and lay by the beach or for only $95 we recommend you upgrade to the amazing Dreamworld package!

Dreamworld is Australia's favourite theme park, home to 13 different worlds. From the tallest and fastest Big 9 thrill rides, to live interactive shows and unique animal attractions, there's something for everyone! WhiteWater World is no ordinary water park, it’s a water ride park especially deisgned to deliver some serious splash. SkyPoint Observation Deck is Australia’s only beachside observation deck. Rising a sheer 230 meters into the sky, SkyPoint boasts the highest enclosed vantage point of the Gold Coast where you can sit back, grab a cocktail and enjoy the unsurpassed 360 degree views that extend from the surf to the hinterland and beyond.

At the end of the day return to your hostel for some snoozing - or not!

Day 7 Beautiful Brisbane

This morning we return to the bus stop to collect the Premier bus to Brisbane at 11am and arrive at 12:20pm. The Capital of Queensland is well known for its relaxed and edgy vibes at South Bank, bustling CBD and cultural representation throughout the city. Gorgeous Mount Coot-tha gives panaromic views of the river and CBD from the most perfect picnic spot!Once again your hostel is just a short walk from the central bus terminal in Brisbane. You have the rest of the day free to explore Brisbane's wonders.

Day 8 Bye Bye Brisbane - Hello Noosa

Today you will say goodbye to Brisbane at 2pm on the Premier bus from the Roma St Transit Centre (level 3). You will arrive in glorious Noosa at 4.20pm where you will be met and chauffeured to your hostel, Halse Lodge, only 200 meters from the awe-inspiring Noosa Main Beach and Hastings Street.

Day 9-11 Pristine Fraser Island (2B,3L,2D)

The day has come to experience the largest sand Island in the world! You will be picked up from your hostel at 6:45am for an epic 3 day adventure.

We realise that most visitors to Fraser wish to drive themselves; this means that on tour you can drive yourself in one of our trusty Toyota 4WD's along with the group or let the tour guide take over for you. Onboard we have the best camping gear, reliable quality vehicles (each fitted with stereo, elec windows etc), delicious meals and a tour guide that is dedicated to giving you the Fraser experience of a life time with memories you’ll never forget.

This self-drive 4WD tour features beach camping, experienced local guides AND excellent food and entertainment. Each tour is tailored to suit the weather, tides and preferences of our guests. You will visit magnificant Lake Wabby, relaxing Eli Creek, breathtaking Indian Head, crystal clear Lake McKenzie, the beautiful Coloured Sands, foaming Champagne Pools and the aged Maheno Shipwreck in no particular order.

On the 3rd day you will be dropped back off at your hostel and can finally get all the sand off of you! Times vary between 2pm and 5pm, but you will still have a relaxing evening in Noosa.

Day 12 Relaxation or Everglades

You will have this day free to explore the wonder that is Noosa. Check out the quaint shops of Hastings Street or grab a coffee in the Junction. Relax on the waterfront or if you are feeling adventurous you can visit 1 of only 2 everglade systems in the world, all from a canoe. ($120)

The breathtaking trip picks up from your hostel and transports you into an ancient water systems and panaromic landscapes. Become emmersed in the sub tropical rainforest which is home to an amazing variety of wildlife. Comes with a buffet lunch along the untouched waterfront.

Day 13 Noosa Paradise

You will have this morning free to explore the little beachside town of Noosa. There are a variety of water sports avaiable 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.

Your accommodation will transfer you to the waiting Premier bus at 4:20pm to head to your next exciting destination. This will be an overnight bus journey.

Day 14 Airlie Beach - Gateway to the Whitsundays

You will arrive in Airlie at 9:30am and will be collected by your hostel, Base Backpackers. This is a day to relax by the incredible lagoon and discover the nightlife Airlie Beach has to offer.

Day 15 - 17 Whitsundays Adventure Sailing

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 accomodation. Then it's out for dinner and drinks with your boat crew in one of Airlie Beach's many bars and resturants. Another night is provided at Base Backpackers.

Day 18 - 19 Magnetic Attraction

Today the bus departs Airlie Beach Bus Terminal at 9:30am and will take you straight to the Townsville ferry terminal at 1:50pm so you can catch the ferry over to magical Magnetic Island.

Present your ticket and jump on the next ferry. These run every 20 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!

Day 20 Back to the Mainland

Time to hop back over to Townsville on the ferry to catch your bus to Cairns which departs at 1:50pm. You will arrive in Cairns at 7:30pm and will make your way to the YHA hostel on 20-26 McLeod Street for 3 nights. Although when you arrive you wont want to leave the laid back atmosphere and incredible weather!

Day 21 Cairns Exploration

You have this day free to explore Cairns. Your accommodation is located in the centre of Cairns so everything is in walking distance. Alternatively you can do a 14,000 foot Skydive this morning for only $250 or a highly reccomended Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest day tour for only $135 including lunch! You can add a tour to the Atherton Tablelands ($89) and see the magnificent crater lakes and the elusive Platypus or go Whitewater rafting on the world famous and thrilling Tully River ($199).

Day 22 The Great Barrier Reef

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 two spectacular locations. 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 attentative 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 a intro or certified scuba dive for $50

You have a final night hostel stay included.

This is where our journey ends as we leave you with a head full of memories and friendships that will last a lifetime!

See Map

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.

ACCOMMODATION

Hostels (16 nts), beachside permanent tented camp (2 nts), maxi yacht (2 nts). All nights multi-share.
Transfers
Shower and toilet facilities

MEALS

included while on Fraser island, Great barrier reef and Whitsundays sailing adventure

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 take?

You may bring a backpack and suitcases and it will be stored securely in our trailer or under the bus during the trip. We recommend bring a smaller day pack to store your daily essentials such as drinks, jackets and sunscreen while 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.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

Generally you will not have enough time to do laundry whilst on tour. You will be having far too much fun! However, for longer tours heading towards Adelaide involving hostel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes if really need. Please enquire by contact us directly via email or phone.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours in the Northern Territory you will need a sleeping bag. The Northern Territory can get very cold at night, especially during the months of June and July. If you don't have one then they are available for hire. Please refer to the "What to bring" section of the tour page for pricing.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

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.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe.

This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

For camping tours internet will not be available.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble.

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.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of 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 its many facets. 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 experience.

The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast - although 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.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Not really. The centre of Australia is quite dry and there is very few places where we are allowed to swim. However, for tours heading upwards towards Darwin there may be areas for swimming. If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information.

Cost and Fees

What does "Paid Locally" mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

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.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

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.

Where do I meet the tour?

Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.

Reviews

“21 Day Sydney to Carins Review”

Travelled 8th October 2019

- Jaqen

Leave a review:

from

AUD2999

Join Tour

Ask a Question We'll Call You