East Coast Australia Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 19 days

4.3

3 Reviews

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Duration

19 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Start in Sydney, finish in Cairns and leave no stone unturned on this 19-day adventure along Australia’s diverse east coast.

Highlights

Witness the expansive and iconic Great Barrier Reef on a snorkelling adventure and see colourful corals and tropical fish as you swim with turtles off the Daintree coast.
Take a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). Ride across sand dunes and vast golden beaches in search of the iconic outback creature – the dingo.
Visit Daintree Rainforest – the oldest rainforest in the world – and Cape Tribulation on a stunning day that ticks off two UNESCO World Heritage areas (nature lovers rejoice!).
Soak up the beachside vibes of Byron Bay with a free day in this surfer’s haven. Go for a dip in the ocean, take a kayaking tour, listen to buskers by the beach, join a yoga class or just hang loose in a quirky café.
Embark on a full-day tour of the Whitsundays, where you’ll head out on a bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout, go snorkelling among giant tropical fish and corals and then relax on the 7 km stretch of Whitehaven Beach as the sun descends.

Trip Details

Duration

19 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Ferry,Overnight train,Boat,4WD

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Sydney / Hunter Valley / Cessnock, Australia

Finishes

Daintree Rainforest / Palm Cove / Cairns, Australia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney / Hunter Valley / Cessnock

Welcome to Sydney! Or 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. Your adventure starts with a pick up at 9 am in front of the starting point hotel. After, you’ll head out for a walkabout around The Rocks with a local Aboriginal guide. Walk through Hicksons Reserve, Campbells Cove and Cumberland Walk as your guide teaches you about this area's history, land and water use, and spiritual connection with the First Nations peoples. You’ll have amazing views of the harbour along the way, including Sydney Harbour Bridge and the CBD. After your journey into the Dreaming, grab some lunch before heading north to the famous winery region – the beautiful Hunter Valley. Once there, sit down for a wine tasting with a sommelier and listen to the history of the various wines and the winery. Next, head to Cessnock in the heart of the valley, our overnight location for tonight. Perhaps head out for an optional welcome dinner in Cessnock to get to know your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:

Hunter Valley - Winery Visit & Wine Tasting
Sydney - The Rocks Dreaming Walking Tour with Aboriginal Guide

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Crowdy Bay National Park / Port Macquarie

Today, you’ll make tracks north along the scenic coastal route. Stop at Crowdy Bay National Park along the way and embark on a scenic hike through forests of heath, paperbark and swamp mahogany at Diamond Head, taking in views of golden beaches and dramatic rock faces. The quartz crystals in the cliffs sparkle in the sun, giving Diamond Head its name. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins off the coast as you wind your way by secluded coves, beaches, and mountains, and you may even encounter a mob of kangaroos on your walk. Later, continue your drive to your accommodation in Port Macquarie.

Included Activities:

Crowdy Bay National Park - Diamond Head Hike

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Port Macquarie / Dorrigo National Park / Coffs Harbour

This morning, you’ll visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where you’ll meet the volunteers who work there and and learn about how this organisation provides care and treatment for koalas needing rehabilitation. Then, drive to Bellingen, where you might like to grab lunch and enjoy some free time. Continue to Dorrigo National Park via the gorgeous Waterfall Way, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest – the last piece of the ancient subcontinent Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals relatively unchanged from their ancestors. Pop into the Rainforest Centre in the park, take a stroll along the skywalk or explore the rainforest with your group.

Included Activities:

Port Macquarie - Koala Hospital guided tour
Dorrigo National Park - Short Hike
Dorrigo National Park - Rainforest Centre & Skywalk

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Coffs Harbour / Byron Bay

Next up is Byron Bay – a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. But first, you’ll start your day with a walking tour of Red Rock with a local First Nations guide. Learn about the culture of the Gumbaynggirr people through stories, songs and the uses of native plants. Walk alongside The Solitary Island Marine Park Waterways and connect with Country as you learn more about the Dreaming. After, you’ll stop in Yamba where you might like to grab some lunch, before visiting Byron Bay Lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot some dolphins, whales and other marine life.

Included Activities:

Coffs Harbour - Red Rock Gumbaynggirr First Nations experience
Byron Bay - Lighthouse Walk

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Byron Bay

Get up early this morning if you want to catch the sunrise – they are pretty ace from Australia's most easterly point – but if you prefer, you can sleep in too! Today is free to do as you please so maybe hunt down the best cold-brew coffee from one of Byron’s quirky cafes, learn how to ride the waves with a beginner’s surf lesson, or hit the water with a guided sea kayaking tour of the Byron Bay Marine Park to see the beauty of the coastline while looking out for dolphins, turtles and whales and learning of the marine biology. Alternatively just hang out on the beach. Tonight, why not grab a drink at one of the local pubs or bars?

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Springbrook National Park / Gold Coast / Brisbane

This morning, head to The Farm – a collection of micro-businesses on a working farm focusing on growing, feeding and educating through community farming. Maybe grab some breakfast here and pick up a few things to have for lunch later on. Continue to Springbrook National Park and take a short walk to Natural Bridge rock arch which was formed by the force of the waterfall over the basalt cave. This afternoon, head to the famous Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast for some beach time before continuing onto Brisbane where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:

Springbrook National Park - Natural Bridge
Byron Bay - The Farm visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Brisbane / Noosa / Hervey Bay

The next part of your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 10 am where you will meet any new group members joining. Then drive to Noosa Heads – a serene town in Queensland by the sea – where you can grab some lunch, relax on the beach or go shopping in the cute boutique shops. If you’d like, maybe use your free time here to do part of the Noosa Coastal Walk and look out for local flora and fauna. This afternoon, you’ll hit the road again for the coastal city of Hervey Bay, where you’ll spend the night.

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: K'gari (Fraser Island) / Hervey Bay

After breakfast this morning, you’ll head to the stunning K'gari (previously known as Fraser Island) by ferry for a day trip. The name change is a major milestone in a long-running campaign by the Butchulla people, whose original name for this place means ‘paradise’ – and you’ll soon see why. Set off on an adventure through the breathtaking landscape. Start off with an adventurous drive along 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 delicate white, 92% pure silica sand. Take another dip, this time in the fresh waters of Eli Creek, then visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters, you’ll witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating dunes and vast golden beaches in search of the iconic outback creature – the dingo. Tonight, head back to Hervey Bay where you can rest and recharge. 

Included Activities:

K'gari - Full day tour

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Hervey Bay / Overnight Train

Enjoy a free day in Hervey Bay today – one of the best sites for observing humpback whales during migration season, and the world’s first certified Whale Heritage Area. If the month is right, maybe spend the morning whale watching on the water, or rent a bike to cycle along the foreshore. Or you could take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, go kayaking or just enjoy one of the many gorgeous beaches nearby. Make sure you pick up some snacks for tonight's overnight train journey north on the famous 'Spirit of Queensland', from the train station at Maryborough West to Proserpine, just south-west of Airlie Beach, arriving early tomorrow morning.

Optional Activities:

Hervey Bay - Whale Watching (Jul-Oct) (130 AUD)

Accommodation:

Overnight train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Airlie Beach

Your new leader will meet you at Proserpine train station early this morning. Head for an optional breakfast and caffeine hit at a local café in Airlie Beach. Your day is free to explore this coastal paradise dotted with palm trees. This hub town of the popular Whitsundays has beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. Maybe stroll around and explore, visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip or find a seat at one of the many bars and watch the sun sparkle on the water. Get to know your new leader tonight with an optional group dinner. 

Optional Activities:

Airlie Beach - Coral Beach walk - Free

Accommodation:

Holiday Apartments (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Whitsunday Islands / Whitehaven Beach / Airlie Beach

Today you’ll head out on a full-day tour to Whitehaven Beach, in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands and in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Start with a walk to the spectacular Hill Inlet Lookout, where you can take photos of the sweeping ocean views. Then, hit the water and go snorkelling at one of the secret spots today's guide will show you. See coral reefs, colourful fish, turtles, clams and other marine life. Then, enjoy an included lunch and take a boat to the southern end of the 7 km stretch of Whitehaven Beach, taking the chance to kick back and relax in the sun after a day of outdoor adventures. Tonight, back in Airlie Beach, maybe head to one of the local bars for a cocktail (or two) and watch the sunset.

Included Activities:

Airlie Beach - Full day Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven Beach Tour with Snorkelling

Accommodation:

Holiday Apartments (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Townsville / Paluma Range National Park / Lucinda

Today is a long day of travel, interspersed with some stops to stretch your legs. Your first stop is Townsville. Head to Castle Hill lookout when you arrive and take some photos of the gorgeous views of the town and ocean below. You’ll have some free time for lunch and to chill by the water. Carry on to Big Crystal Creek in the Paluma Range National Park, where you can take a stroll, swim in the creek or just relax among the sounds of local birdlife. This afternoon, you’ll head to Lucinda, where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:

Paluma Range National Park - Crystal Creek
Townsville - Castle Hill Lookout

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Mungalla Station / Mission Beach

This morning after breakfast, drive to Mungalla station, where you’ll meet the First Nations owners of the land – the Nywaigi people – and learn about their culture and history, including about the brutal conflicts with European settlers. The story you’ve been told will come to life as you visit an exhibition of pictures within the historic homestead. Then head out and explore the Mungalla wetlands in search of aquatic birdlife. Drive to Mission Beach this afternoon – a small coastal town with expansive beaches, lined with palm trees. Stop in Tully along the way to stretch your legs, then ask your leader for the best way to spend your night.

Included Activities:

Mungalla Station - Nywaigi First Nations Guided Tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Atherton Tablelands / Cairns

This morning after breakfast, drive to Millaa Millaa Falls for a nature walk and perhaps a refreshing swim in the cascades. Stop in for lunch at a local cafe at Yungaburra, then take the Curtain Fig boardwalk to see the iconic tree this park was named after – this park protects endangered mabi forest and a large green fig tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 m to the forest floor, forming a ‘curtain’. After, head to Lake Eacham – the site of an old volcano and home to Australia’s largest python! Here, maybe take a swim (just keep an eye out for the resident freshwater crocodile). This afternoon, you’ll drive to Cairns, where you you may say goodbye to some of the group who are finishing their travels here. Tonight meet any new travellers joining at a Welcome Meeting at 6pm.

Day 15: Cairns

After breakfast, head out on a First Nations-guided eco-tour of Mandingal Bay. The Traditional Owners of this land will teach you about Country, where mountains are home to rainforests and vast wetlands are home to local birdlife. Walk to Hills Creek, where the sea meets the fresh water and attend a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. Then, join your guide on a rainforest trail and learn about ancient Aboriginal traditions, customs and artefacts as you listen to the sounds of nature. After, you have a free afternoon in Cairns to grab some lunch, head to a local art gallery, explore the aquarium or just soak up some sun on the promenade.

Included Activities:

Cairns - Mandingalbay First Nations tour

Optional Activities:

Cairns - Art gallery - Free
Cairns - Botanical Gardens - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Kuranda to Mareeba

This morning, enjoy breakfast and then drive to Kuranda – perched at the top of a mountain. Start with a visit to nearby Barron Falls lookout for the best photo spots, then head into town. You’ll have some time to explore this charming rainforest town and its surroundings at your own pace. Maybe check out the famous Kuranda Markets, or relax at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes, where outdoor dining is one of the joys of the cooler mountain climate. This afternoon, visit the Tolga Bat Hospital – Australia’s largest bat rehabilitation facility. Here you’ll learn about the facility's research, advocacy and community education and make some new upside-down friends. Tonight, you’ll head to the Mareeba Wetlands for an exciting wildlife spotting experience at sunset, hosted by Forever Wild – an organisation that creates community and nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises.

Included Activities:

Atherton Tablelands - Tolga Bat Hospital
Mareeba Wetlands - Forever Wild sunset wildlife experience
Kuranda - Kuranda Markets
Barron Gorge National Park - Din Din Barron Falls lookout

Optional Activities:

Kuranda - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway (79 AUD)
Kuranda - Kuranda Scenic Railway (63 AUD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Mareeba / Mossman Gorge / Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation

This morning, head to the idyllic Mossman Gorge for a refreshing morning swim and a nature walk. After, you’ll continue to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage areas – Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest. Head off on another nature walk and immerse yourself in the sounds and smells of the rainforest, keeping your eye out for local birdlife. Daintree is over 135 million years old, making it the oldest rainforest in the world! This afternoon, continue exploring the area or kick back and relax at your accommodation.

Included Activities:

Daintree National Park - Mossman Gorge
Daintree National Park - Nature Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Great Barrier Reef / Cape Tribulation

After breakfast, head out on an early morning tour of the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll swim with turtles and snorkel in the pristine waters off the Daintree Coast, visiting two different snorkel locations. What better way to spend a morning!? The rest of the day is free to relax on the beach, swim, take a hike or just find a good spot to sit and people-watch. This is a nature-lovers paradise, so there are plenty of activities and laidback options to choose from.

Included Activities:

Great Barrier Reef - Half Day Cruise & Snorkelling Experience

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Daintree Rainforest / Palm Cove / Cairns

This morning visit Kulki Lookout, where you can stroll along the boardwalk for some iconic views of Cape Tribulation and steep, rainforest-covered slopes that meet the sandy beaches below. Next, head to another boardwalk for a scenic circuit that takes you through dense lowland forests and mangrove-lined creeks. Then visit Mason’s Swimming Hole for a gorgeous tropical swim among lush flora and friendly fish and turtles, where you'll have time to have lunch. When you’re refreshed from a dip in the water, continue to Cairns via the idyllic Palm Cove. On arrival in Cairns your trip will come to an end at around 5 pm. If you want to extend your stay and explore Cairns further, just speak to your booking agent.

Included Activities:

Cape Tribulation - Kulki walk & lookout
Cape Tribulation - Mason’s Swimming Hole
Daintree National Park - Nature Walk

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $9,060

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 19 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Start in Sydney, finish in Cairns and leave no stone unturned on this 19-day adventure along Australia’s diverse east coast.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 05 Jul 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Tatyana

Traveled, April 2024

04/29/2024

Hi, The trip was very relaxing and recharging for me. I enjoyed it very much. It was great opportunity to meet people from different parts of Australia and from overseas in the group on the tour. I had such a great time exploring Western Australia and trying out new things. The weather was perfect in April, and we did some bushwalking and swimming as well. The travel was comfortable and entertaining. The accommodation was good, aging at some locations but clean. Very interesting tours to vineries for tasting local wines, chocolates. If we had more time on the last two days, I would prefer spending it exploring Freemantle with the Guide. And I think more than one day needed to spend on Rottnest Island. And I wish we had more time allocated to spend in Basselton. Our guide Sean provided great care managing our all-ladies group and we always were on time at different points of our destination. The chosen location for having meals were good and the food was excellent. My diet restriction options (gluten free, vegetarian) were always met. I'm grateful to Sean for sharing his knowledge about Australian history of this region and Aboriginal culture. I'm impressed that he was able answering all our questions. It was very interesting journey into Ngilgi Cave and meeting with Aboriginal guide, who happily presented stories about life of his people. I highly recommend this tour for people, who are interested in active, relaxing and informative vocation. Thank you!

5.0

Ben

Traveled, April 2024

05/01/2024

Took the tour hosted by Robert & Frederico. Robert was always full of energy when he spoke and he had lots of stories. Whenever we saw animals on the outback roads he stopped and allowed us to have a look and photograph them. He did this with camels. He found a dead snake on the side of the road and then pulled it into our van for us all to have a look at it. He found a thorny devil on the side of the road and pulled it into the van for all of us to look at it. He was very knowledgeable with explaining the story of the Southern Cross star constellation. I liked that the tour guides allowed us to swap seats in the van and sit up the front with Robert. I liked the number of stops we had including Erldunda at the geographic centre of Australia and the many photo opportunities on the side of the road. It was fabulous to see Uluru and I was amazed at the height and size of it. We saw the sunset over Uluru which changed the colour of the rock which was sensational. We also saw the sunrise over Uluru and I enjoyed visiting the Aboriginal cultural centre. Aboriginal art is stunning and the people are friendly.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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