Sydney to Cairns Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 14 days

4.7

3 Reviews

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Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Weave your way from Sydney to Cairns along Australia’s breathtaking east coast on this 14-day adventure. Start by sampling some of Australia’s best wines in the Hunter Valley, get up close and cuddly with koalas in Dorrigo National Park and soak up the vibes of Byron Bay.

Highlights

Take a guided walkabout tour around Sydney Harbour with a local Aboriginal guide who will teach you about local First Nations history and the spiritual connection to Country, while you take in the iconic views.
Get in touch with Australia’s wilderness and wildlife. Meet cute koalas at an animal hospital, look out for whales if the season is right and explore the rainforest and waterfalls in Dorrigo National Park.
Soak up plenty of beach time with stays in Hervey Bay, Byron Bay, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach and a full-day tour of the Whitsundays – where you’ll go snorkelling among giant tropical fish and corals, then relax on the 7 km stretch of Whitehaven Beach as the sun descends.
Take an incredible 4WD adventure through the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). Ride across sand dunes and golden beaches while you explore the world’s largest sand island.
Explore Mungalla Wetlands with an Aboriginalguide as you search for aquatic birdlife and learn about the history and culture of the Nywaigi people.

Trip Details

Duration

14 days

Transportation

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

Guide Language

English

Starts

Sydney to Hunter Valley, Australia

Finishes

Cairns, Australia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney to Hunter Valley

Welcome to Sydney! Or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Sydney is now located. Your adventure begins with a pickup 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 and great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Wander through sites like Campbells Cove and along the Cumberland Walk while your guide teaches you about the area's history, land and water use, as well as its spiritual connection for First Nations people. You’ll then have time to grab lunch before heading north to the famous Hunter Valley winery region. Once there, sit down for a sommelier-led wine tasting where you’ll hear about the winery’s history and varieties. Finish your tasting and depart for Cessnock, your accommodation for tonight in the heart of the valley. 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: Hunter Valley to Port Macquarie

Today, you’ll make tracks north along the scenic coastal route. Along the way, stop at Crowdy Bay National Park for the easy-to-moderate Diamond Head Loop Walk that winds through forests of heath, paperbark and swamp mahogany at Diamond Head. While taking in the views of golden beaches and dramatic rock faces, keep an eye out for the quartz crystals in the cliffs that sparkle in the sun, giving Diamond Head its name. Whales and dolphins can sometimes be spotted off the coast, and you may even come across a mob of kangaroos between the secluded coves, beaches and forest trails. 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 to Red Rock

This morning, you’ll visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where you’ll meet the volunteers who work there 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 - Rainforest Centre & Skywalk

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Red Rock to 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

Today is a free day to enjoy the coastal life of Byron Bay. Early risers might enjoy catching the sunrise, while others can enjoy the morning to sleep in. There’s plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Byron Bay, including a beginner’s surf lesson, a guided sea kayaking tour of the Byron Bay Marine Park, or just relaxing at the beach. You’ll have plenty of options for food and drink today thanks to Byron’s thriving café, bar and pub scene. Perhaps get the group together for a dinner overlooking the water? Your leader can help with some recommendations.

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Gold Coast to 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 add a few extra snacks 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: Hervey Bay

The next part of your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 10 am. Then, drive to Noosa Heads, where you can grab some lunch, relax on the beach or go shopping in the boutique shops. If you’d like, maybe use your free time here to do part of the Noosa Coastal Walk and look 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: Hervey Bay

After breakfast this morning, you’ll head to the island of K'gari (previously known as Fraser Island) by ferry for a daytrip. 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 landscape, starting with an adventurous drive along the sand roads of 75 Mile Beach Road. Then, take a dive into the clear rainwater lake of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), famous for its turqouise water filtered by its 92 per cent pure silica sand. Head over to another of the island’s safe swimming spots, the fresh waters of Eli Creek, before a visit to the Maheno shipwreck and coloured sands of the pinnacles. Tonight, head back to Hervey Bay for a free evening to rest and recharge. 

Included Activities:

K'gari - Full day tour

Accommodation:

Cabins (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Hervey Bay

Enjoy a free day in Hervey Bay today – a prime location 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. You could also take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, go kayaking or just enjoy one of the many Queensland beaches nearby. Make sure you pick up some snacks for tonight's overnight train journey north on the famous 'Spirit of Queensland.' Depart from the train station at Maryborough West and arrive in Proserpine, 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 hub town of the popular Whitsundays, which has plenty of beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. Whether you want to just kick back by the water or get out into nature on a coastal hike, there’s plenty on offer. 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: Airlie Beach

Today you’ll head out on a full-day tour to Whitehaven Beach in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands and the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Start with a walk to the Hill Inlet Lookout – one of the most famous lookout spots for wide spanning views of the Whitsundays’ white sands and blue waters. Then, throw your swimsuit on to go snorkelling at one of the secret spots that your guide will show you. See coral reefs, tropical 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 toast at sunset.

Included Activities:

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

Accommodation:

Holiday Apartments (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Lucinda

Today is a long day of travel with some stops to stretch your legs. Your first stop is Townsville, where you’ll head to Castle Hill lookout, walking the track up to the 360-degree viewpoint of the town, Coral Sea and Magnetic Island. You’ll have some free time for lunch and to chill by the water. Then, carry on to Big Crystal Creek in the Paluma Range National Park for a stroll, swim in the creek or quiet time relaxing to the sounds of local birdlife. This afternoon, depart for Lucinda, your location for the night.

Included Activities:

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

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Mission Beach

This morning after breakfast, drive to Mungalla Station to meet the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Nywaigi people. Learn about their culture and history, including the brutal conflicts with European settlers, during a guided tour. 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 like spoonbills, magpie geese and egrets. Drive to Mission Beach this afternoon – a small coastal town on the Cassowary Coast known for its beaches lined by palm trees and rainforests filled with cassowaries. Stop in Tully along the way to stretch your legs and tonight, maybe ask your leader for their favourite local restaurant.

Included Activities:

Mungalla Station - Nywaigi First Nations Guided Tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Cairns

Have breakfast before driving to Millaa Millaa Falls for a nature walk and optional swim in the cascades. Stop for lunch at a local cafe at Yungaburra, then walk along the Curtain Fig boardwalk to see the heritage-listed 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 go for a swim or walk the rainforest tracks, looking for native wildlife like the musky rat-kangaroo. This afternoon, you’ll drive to Cairns, where your trip will come to an end at approximately 5 pm. If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Included Activities:

Atherton Tablelands - Curtain Tree boardwalk
Atherton Tablelands - Lake Eacham walk
Atherton Tablelands - Millaa Millaa Falls

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 will do 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.

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 $6,790

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 14 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 14 Jun 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

5.0

Michaela

Traveled, March 2023

03/21/2023

Thoroughly enjoyed the trip

4.0

Sue

Traveled, March 2020

04/01/2020

Was a great tour the second week is definitely the better week though as you are round the coast, Fraser Island and the Whit Sundays are just beautiful. My group were amazing Andrew our tour guide was fabulous especially as we were the last tour for a while as the Coronavirus hit Australia during our tour. So he would be losing his job as soon as the tour finished. Despite that he kept us all motivated and we had a fantastic time. Amazing tour

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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