Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest
Embark on an incredible 10-day journey starting in Brisbane and concluding in Cairns. Relax at Airlie Beach and Mission Beach, discover the colourful corals and marine life of the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkelling excursion and sail around the blissful Whitsunday Islands. Discover the scenic Atherton Tablelands, explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge on foot and from above, and enjoy a thrilling crocodile cruise, plus lots more!
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Brisbane
Day 1 Welcome to Brisbane
Arrive in Brisbane and make your way to our start hotel. Welcome to the capital of Queensland and future host of the 2032 summer Olympics. Known as Bris-Vegas, this city is characterized by its relaxed atmosphere, sunny weather, optimistic spirit, and vibrant energy, making it the epitome of an Australian city.
Our welcome meeting will take place at 6:00 pm on Day 1 at the starting point hotel. It’s very important that you’re on time, so we can set off on our adventures straight after the meeting. Following a brief introduction, we embark on an evening orientation walk to explore the city, and the evening is free for you to get to know your group and find a restaurant for dinner.
Meeting point: The Point Brisbane, 21 Lambert Street, Brisbane, Queensland
Day 2 Airlie Beach free time
Day 2 Airlie Beach free time
Brisbane - Airlie Beach. This morning we head to the airport for our included flight to Airlie Beach, a beautiful destination in the Whitsundays. The rest of the day is free, and full of possibilities. You can wander around the town, discover a trendy bar, or even explore the nearby local swimming hole, it's up to you!
Day 3 Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach
Day 3 Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach
Today we're enjoying a laid back morning cruise around the picturesque islands of the Whitsundays. Our itinerary includes a visit to the renowned Whitehaven beach, which boasts stunning white sands, crystal clear blue waters, and lush greenery. For a more immersive experience, you can go snorkelling to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish and turtles. Returning to dry land, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 4 Mission Beach at leisure
Day 4 Mission Beach at leisure
Airlie Beach - Mission Beach. Today, we will experience a change of scenery as we travel through rolling cane fields to the charming coastal resort of Mission Beach. In the afternoon, there is ample time to relax and appreciate the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking vistas. Take advantage of this opportunity to catch up on your reading or simply unwind by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, immersing yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Day 5 Atherton Tablelands
Day 5 Atherton Tablelands
Mission Beach - Cairns. Start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before we embark on a journey through the lush wet tropics of Far North Queensland. On our way to the Atherton Tablelands, we will come across a breathtaking plunge waterfall hidden within a dense tropical rainforest. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water, and keep an eye out for the native platypus!
Continuing our adventure, we will visit Lake Eacham, a stunning crater lake known for its crystal-clear water. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the impressive 'Curtain Fig Tree' during our visit. Our day ends in Cairns.
Day 6 Great Barrier Reef
Day 6 Great Barrier Reef
Today may go down as the highlight of your Australia tour, as we embark on a cruise to the UNESCO-protected Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. The reef is one of the world's most renowned natural wonders. Don your mask and snorkel and head below the waves to see shoals of colourful fish, rays, turtles and perhaps even a curious shark or two! We cruise out to the reef on a larger vessel and once at the snorkelling site, we can jump aboard a smaller vessel to explore the reef. This smaller boat features a glass bottom, so you can see the colourful life of the reef from above the water.
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guides will offer insights on reef conservation and about the species you see. Our top-notch vessel will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience, and you can also join optional scuba diving if you would like to go a little deeper down to the reef. Back on dry land, there is an included group dinner tonight in Cairns, where we are sure to reflect on our incredible experience!
Please note: For the optional scuba diving, this will be an introductory dive to about 5-6 metres. If you are already a certified diver, you may dive to depths of up to 15 metres.
Day 7 Cairns to Port Douglas
Day 7 Cairns to Port Douglas
Cairns - Kuranda - Port Douglas. Departing Cairns, we journey first to Kuranda. Here we enjoy an included ride on the Skyrail gondola, which passes over the world's oldest living tropical rainforest. Soak up the magnificent view over this ancient forest, teeming with life. Next, we continue north to the serene town of Port Douglas, renowned for its captivating sunsets and leisurely atmosphere. The evening is free to head out for dinner and a couple of sundowners.
Day 8 Mossman Gorge & Rainforest walk
Day 8 Mossman Gorge & Rainforest walk
Enjoy a lie in, rise early for a morning jog or grab a fresh coffee from one of Port Douglas' many local brewers - the first part of the day is at leisure.
In the afternoon, an included visit to Mossman Gorge offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest on a scenic walk. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the fascinating culture, delectable cuisine, and unique customs of the Kuku Yalanji First Nations with an incredible and educational cultural experience.
Day 9 Daintree Rainforest exploring
Day 9 Daintree Rainforest exploring
Today is a significant day as we venture further into the renowned Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation on a short ferry ride. Keep your eyes peeled for the ancient cassowary, crocodiles and other native wildlife as we explore the rainforest. And you will also have an opportunity to meet the native family who graciously hosted the crew working on David Attenborough's documentary. We enjoy a farewell group dinner back in Port Douglas, as tonight is the final night of our trip.
Day 10 Cairns
Day 10 Cairns
Port Douglas - Cairns. Enjoy a final breakfast in Port Douglas before we make the drive south back to Cairns, where our tour comes to an end.
Our tour finishes on arrival at the Flynn Hotel at approximately 11:00 am. Please avoid booking any onward flights from Cairns any earlier than 1pm.
Finishing Point: Crystalbrook Flynn, 68/72 Abbott St, Cairns, Queensland
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Located at Kangaroo Point and offering sweeping views of the Brisbane River, this well-located hotel comes equipped with a palm-fringed pool, fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. Australian cuisine is served at the onsite Lamberts Restaurant and a buffet breakfast is served daily, whilst there's also a bar and lounge for drinks. All rooms are ensuite, with air-conditioning, flat screen TV and a pillow menu for added comfort.
Located within a 5-minute drive of Airlie Beach and a 10-minute walk from the beach, Mantra Club Croc is housed in a traditional Queensland building and boasts a tropical atmosphere throughout. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas and there's an outdoor pool and spa, manicured gardens, a bar and bistro specializing in seafood for guests to enjoy. Palm trees rise up around the pool and the outdoor areas are lush and tropical. Accommodation is tasteful and modern, with private balconies in some rooms, air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, minifridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Adjoining rooms can also be accommodated on request.
Just a 5-minute walk from bliss Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach Resort is equipped with four outdoor swimming pools set amongst tropical gardens. The Fernery Bistro is open for lunch and dinner, offering a range of Western cuisine, and there are two bars with pool table, gaming and other entertainment. Rooms all offer a private balcony featuring either pool or garden views. Rooms are ensuite with flat screen TV, fridge, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
One of the best accommodation options in Cairns, the Crystalbrook Flynn hotel offers 311 well-appointed rooms, many of which face out to the Coral Sea, equipped with balconies in which to enjoy the sunset. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout, rooms are equipped with an Apple iPad control centre and 55 inch TV. Guests can enjoy complimentary movies, blackout blinds, air-con and a Nespresso machine in their room. There are a range of dining and drinking options both at the hotel and on the nearby Cairns Esplanade boardwalk, and a glass swimming pool to enjoy.
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Paradise Links Resort is a wonderful base in Port Douglas. When not out exploring, guests can unwind besides the two lagoon-style swimming pools, play tennis at the onsite court or browse their social media with complimentary Wi-Fi. Boutique accommodation is equipped with a patio or balcony, air-conditioning, Nespresso coffee machines, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
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