32 Days Sydney to Cairns Ultimate
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.
Accommodation, Tours and Transport can be upgraded and customized to your liking. Please contact us directly.
- 3 Days Sailing Whitsundays
- 3 Days Fraser Island
- Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
- Mojo surf school 1/2 day lesson
- 2 hour Noosa kayak rental
- Everglades Canoe Day Trip
- Atherton Tablelands Day Trip
- 15,000ft Skydive in Mission Beach
- 3 Nights in Cairns
- 4 Nights in Noosa Heads
- 3 Nights in Airlie Beach
- 2 Nights on Magnet Island
- 3 Nights in Byron Bay
- 2 Nights In Agnes Water
- 2 Nights in Sydney
- 2 nights in Surfers Paradise
- 2 Nights in Mission Beach
- 2 nights in Brisbane
- Choose your own transport
- Experienced & Knowledgable Guides
- 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches & 5 Dinners
- Taxes & Fees
- Trip length:
- 32 Days
- Group size:
- Avg 21
- Start:
- Sydney
- End:
- Cairns
- 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: Introduction
This trip offers complete flexibility, allowing you to choose your preferred start date, finish date, and location. You can customize the number of nights as well. We suggest starting from Cairns, Sydney, or Melbourne. Here's an example itinerary starting from Sydney to Cairns.
Day 2: Sydney
Begin your adventure with a day of exploring the city. Start by visiting the famous Bondi Beach, where you can explore the local markets and enjoy a swim. Have lunch at one of the excellent restaurants and take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens. In the late afternoon, take a scenic ferry ride to Manly and witness a stunning sunset as you unwind.
Day 3: Sydney
Today, take a train ride to the renowned Blue Mountains. Get off at Katoomba and embark on a bushwalk through the breathtaking landscape. With trails suitable for all fitness levels, there's something for everyone. After a satisfying lunch, capture memorable moments with the Three Sisters rock formations or admire the beauty of Wentworth Falls. Return to Sydney by train and relax with cocktails or a beer at Circular Quay.
Day 4: Sydney
Make the most of your final day in Sydney by taking iconic selfies with the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park. Enjoy a delicious meal in the afternoon and grab some snacks for your journey to Byron Bay. Board the overnight bus from Sydney to Byron Bay.
Day 5: Byron Bay
Arrive in Byron Bay early in the morning and check in to your centrally located accommodation for the next three nights. Embrace the Australian spirit with a half-day surf lesson to kickstart your time in Byron Bay.
Day 6: Byron Bay
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Byron Bay. Spend time at the local beaches or visit popular attractions like The Lighthouse or The Farm Byron Bay.
Day 7: Byron Bay
Rise and shine! Start your day early for an unforgettable dolphin encounter. Whether you choose snorkeling, kayaking, or scuba diving, Byron Bay offers various options to witness its vibrant wildlife. Follow this with a tour of the local microbreweries and indulge in the region's flavors.
Day 8: Byron Bay
Wake up and consider renting a car or joining a day trip to the famous destination of Nimbin. Explore the scenic hinterlands, visit captivating waterfalls, experience the charm of Nimbin's small town, and savor a traditional pub lunch. Make time for shopping before enjoying a relaxed drive back to Byron Bay.
Day 9: Surfers Paradise
Take a short bus ride to the famous city of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast. Check in to your accommodation and get ready to explore Australia's equivalent of Miami. Take a walk along Miami Beach and capture a memorable picture under the Surfers Paradise sign. As the night unfolds, venture out and experience the vibrant nightlife with your newfound friends.
Day 10: Surfers Paradise
Today is the perfect opportunity to satisfy your craving for adrenaline in Surfers Paradise. With a selection of more than five massive theme parks, choose one or visit them all for a day of excitement and adventure. Afterward, visit Burleigh Heads for a relaxing walk in the parkland, explore Snapper Rocks in Coolangatta, or enjoy a sunset at one of the lovely Gold Coast beaches or lookout points.
Day 11: Noosa
Begin your day by checking out of your Surfers Paradise accommodation and heading to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. Upon arrival, check in to your hostel, drop off your bags, and explore the charming beachside town known for its surfing and stunning national parks.
Day 12: Noosa Everglades/Noosa
Start your day with a trip to the breathtaking Noosa Everglades, one of only two in the world! Immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty as you canoe through this stunning location, teeming with rare animal and plant species. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the local brewery and sample some of their many beers, crafted with water from the underground reservoirs of the everglades.
Day 13: Noosa
Wake up and get excited for a day at the beach. Take a stroll down Hastings Street, the vibrant heart of Noosa, lined with boutique clothing stores and inviting restaurants. Settle in on the main beach and enjoy the refreshing waves and stunning backdrop. It's the perfect place to work on your tan or test your newfound surfing skills with a board from one of the local surf shops. In the evening, attend a compulsory 6PM safety briefing at your hostel to prepare for your upcoming Fraser Island adventure.
Day 14: Fraser Island
The tour departs early from Nomads Hostel in Noosa. Transfers are included to Rainbow Beach, where you'll pick up your 4WD vehicle. From Inskip Point, take the ferry to Fraser Island and drive along the famous 75-mile beach. Visit Lake Wabby and/or Lake Birrabeen, enjoy lunch with your group, explore the rainforest at Wanggoolba Creek & Central Station, and drive back through the rainforest to the campsite. Experience the sunset, have dinner with your group, and spend the night camping on the beach.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Fraser Island
Enjoy a basic breakfast before heading off to Fraser Island's highlights. Take a swim in the fresh waters of Eli Creek, explore the world-famous Maheno Shipwreck, have lunch on the move, make a quick stop at the "Pinnacles" colored sands, and visit Indian Head Lookout & Champagne Pools. Return to the campsite for the final night and enjoy dinner with your group.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Fraser Island/Noosa
Have your last breakfast on the island, then drive to Lake McKenzie. Relax and enjoy the white silica sand before having lunch and making your way to the ferry for the return to the mainland. Depart the island around 2:30 PM, drop off the 4WD vehicles at Rainbow Beach, and transfer back to Noosa, arriving around 5 PM.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 17: Agnes Water/Town Of 1770
Take a bus to Agnes Water/Town Of 1770. Upon arrival, settle into your hostel and make new friends in anticipation of the relaxing days ahead in this charming little surf town.
Day 18: Agnes Water/Town Of 1770
Explore the headland or venture to Deep Water National Park before enjoying a delicious meal at the Mango Tree Hotel in Town Of 1770. In the afternoon, we recommend joining the classic "Chopper Motorbike Tour" with Scooteroo. Experience the thrill of the wind in your hair and the revving of a motorbike between your legs—an epic adventure.
Day 19: Agnes Water/Town Of 1770
Take a moment to grab a towel and head to the beach or consider joining a surf lesson for an exciting experience. Today is a laid-back hangout day, allowing you to unwind on the sandy shores or float in the refreshing water, taking time to reflect on your incredible journey thus far. Appreciate the beauty of the surroundings and embrace the serenity of the beach. In the evening, you'll embark on an overnight bus journey to Airlie Beach, continuing your adventure in this stunning destination.
Day 20: Airlie Beach
Upon arrival this morning, you'll be delighted to check into your exceptional accommodation in Airlie Beach. Take some time to settle in and appreciate the comfort and beauty of your surroundings. Afterward, make sure to visit the renowned Airlie Beach Lagoon, a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere. As you soak up the sun and revel in the inviting waters, you can begin preparing for your highly anticipated Whitsundays trip. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this breathtaking paradise.
Day 21: Whitsundays
Embark on a sailing adventure to one of the most picturesque islands in the Whitsundays. Dive into the water and experience the thrill of snorkeling and scuba diving. As you sail to our first sleeping location at Whitsunday Island, relax on the deck with a beer or wine, and savor a freshly cooked dinner sourced from local ingredients.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 22: Whitsundays
Rise early to a delicious breakfast. Depending on weather and tides, enjoy two snorkeling sessions at different stunning locations around the islands or take a quick 10-minute bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout for a breathtaking view. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 23: Whitsundays/Airlie Beach
Start the day with breakfast and the opportunity for another snorkeling adventure. Hopefully, you'll have one more chance to snorkel before heading back to Airlie Beach. Check back into your hostel and join the crew and new friends for a free after-party.
Meal(s) included: Breakfast
Day 24: Airlie Beach
Enjoy a relaxed day in Airlie Beach. Visit the lagoon, have breakfast at one of the fantastic cafes, or venture out to serene natural spots like Cedar Creek Falls for a refreshing swim. Spend the evening in Airlie Beach, taking it easy.
Meal(s) included: Breakfast
Day 25: Magnetic Island
Travel to Townsville and take a ferry to Magnetic Island. Check in at one of the beachside resorts for two amazing nights. Unwind on the island's iconic beaches and enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 26: Magnetic Island
Today is yours to explore, relax, or rent one of the famous "Barbie Cars" and cruise around the island in style.
Meal(s) included: Breakfast
Day 27: Mission Beach
Board the bus and head to the tropical surroundings of Mission Beach. Upon arrival, check into your hostel and freely explore the local area.
Day 28: Mission Beach
Today, experience the thrill of a 15,000 ft skydive over the stunning tropical beaches and reef. Feel the exhilaration as you fall and glide through the sky, landing on the beach like a true action hero. Take the rest of the day to relax and reflect on crossing off a bucket list item.
Day 29: Cairns
Travel from Mission Beach to Cairns, a tropical city in North Queensland. Check into your centrally located accommodation and spend the day and evening immersing yourself in the culture and nightlife. Get a good night's sleep in preparation for your Great Barrier Reef trip the next day.
Day 30: Cairns/Great Barrier Reef
Today, be part of a unique reef experience catered to small groups, suitable for both experienced and first-time snorkelers and divers. The tour has a relaxed, tropical vibe, allowing you to explore the reef and a sand cay. With a later departure and a return at sunset, enjoy a fun and chilled day exploring the mind-blowing reef.
Meal(s) included: Lunch
Day 31: Cairns/Atherton Tablelands
Venture into the depths of the Australian Rainforests in the Atherton Tablelands. Discover a circuit of breathtaking waterfalls that must be seen to be believed. Spend the day swimming, jumping, and sliding into picturesque waterfalls and lakes, including the famous "hair flick" at Milla Milla. Return to Cairns in the evening.
Day 32: Cairns
This morning, you'll have the entire day to yourself, free to explore Cairns at your leisure. If you're seeking more adventure, you can choose to add on a thrilling rainforest trip or even try a bungy jump to enhance your Cairns experience. The choice is yours to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
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
Package Inclusions
- 2 nights in Sydney
- 3 nights in Byron Bay
- Mojo surf school 1/2 day lesson
- 2 nights in Surfers Paradise
- 2 nights in Brisbane
- 4 nights in Noosa
- 2 hour Noosa kayak rental
- 3 Day/2 Night Fraser Island Tag Along Safari Tour
- 2 nights in Agnes Water/1770
- 3 nights in Airlie Beach
- 2 day/2 night Whitsundays Sailing Adventure
- 2 night Magnetic Island Escape with Base Magnetic Island
- 2 Nights in Mission Beach
- 15,000ft Skydive in Mission Beach
- 4 Nights In Cairns
- Atherton Tablelands Day Trip
- Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
- 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches & 5 Dinners
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.
How do these packages work?
We are essentially creating a travel plan for you. We'll book all your accommodation, transport between towns, tours and other activites for you to do. You just need to show up with your tickets and off you go! All towns are connected together using the greyhound network which will alllow you to move along the east coast freely and timely stopping and starting where you want.
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.
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!
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.