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Sydney to Cairns Explorer

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14 days

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Sydney to Cairns, where you'll snorkel along the Great Barrier Reef, cruise the Whitsundays and see cuddly koalas up close. In the Hunter Valley, indulge in wine, cheese & chocolate tasting, hit the beach at Byron Bay and take an adrenalin-fuelled 4WD drive on Fraser Island. Opt for surfing or kayaking, relax on vibrant beaches, and venture into lush rainforests to spot wildlife. Dive into crystal-clear lakes and soak up the beauty of the Australian coastline.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

14 days

Starts

Sydney

Ends

Cairns

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 4 / Max 16

Minimum age

18

Departs

Sundays

Hotel Rating

3-4 star hotels

Countries

Australia

Arrival Transfer

No

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 3, Dinner: 2
Per person from
€4,121.25
Save 25% today
Total From
€10,990.00
€8,242.50
Deposit From
Final payment
€900.00
€7,792.50

Tour Highlights

Hunter Valley - See koalas, kangaroos and more at a wildlife park and enjoy a wine and cheese tour
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital - Tour the hospital to learn about the cuddly critters and the amazing centre’s conservation efforts
Byron Bay - Spend a free day unwinding in one of Australia's most famous beach locations and enjoy a First Nations experience
Fraser Island - Get the adrenalin pumping on a 4WD adventure, search for dingoes, enjoy a rainforest walk and opt to swim in a crystal clear lake
Airlie Beach - Unwind with free time to soak up some sun and explore this famous resort town
Whitsundays - Cruise around this stunning group of islands, stop at famous Whitehaven Beach and snorkel in the clear ocean
Atherton Tablelands - Take a dip under a plunging waterfall, see the crater Lake Eacham and admire the famous Curtain Fig Tree
Great Barrier Reef - Snorkel amongst the corals and tropical fish at one of the world's more famous and fragile natural wonders

Included

12 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 2 dinners
13 nights 3-4 star hotels
Escorted by an expert local guide
All transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles
Economy class flight from Brisbane - Airlie Beach
Orientation walking tours in Sydney, Newcastle & Brisbane
Conservation Wildlife Park visit
Hunter Valley wine, cheese & chocolate tasting tour
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital visit
Byron Bay First Nations experience
Noosa National Park visit
Fraser Island 4WD adventure
Whitsundays Island day cruise with snorkelling
Atherton Tablelands tour
Great Barrier Reef day cruise on a glass bottomed boat, including snorkelling
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

Not Included

International flights and visas
Airport transfers
Additional meals and drinks unless specified
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Optional activities & additional attractions unless specified above

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Australia!

Our trip begins at Australia's lively Harbour City, a stunning city on the east coast. When you arrive, you will check into your room, freshen up, and then join your tour guide and other travellers for a welcome meeting and orientation stroll at 6 p.m. Following that, we will have a delightful welcome dinner, which will allow you to interact and get to know your trip companions better.

Meeting point: Holiday Inn Potts Point, 203 Victoria St, Potts Point, Sydney, New South Wales

Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Aussie wildlife, Hunter Valley & Newcastle

Sydney - Hunter Valley - Newcastle. We leave Sydney and head to a wildlife park filled with koalas, kangaroos, and other exotic species. Our tour here will be guided by a local ranger. Next, we head into the Hunter Valley, and take advantage of our surroundings by going on a wine, cheese, and chocolate tasting tour. Arriving in Newcastle, we enjoy a brief orientation tour before the evening is free for you to further explore at leisure.

Overnight: Newcastle
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Port Macquarie koalas

Newcastle - Port Macquarie. After breakfast, we'll head to Port Macquarie to meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital. Joining our trip will provide you with vast knowledge about these endangered creatures while also supporting the centre's extraordinary conservation efforts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Port Macquarie shoreline and find a local restaurant for dinner. Keep a look out for wild dolphins, as they are frequently seen in the vicinity.

Overnight: Port Macquarie
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Byron Bay

Port Macquarie - Byron Bay. Today we enjoy an included interactive First Nations experience, allowing you to learn about the Gumbaynggirr people's rich culture. Connect with the land's traditional custodians to obtain a deeper understanding of their heritage.

It's then time to head to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf destination noted for its beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and friendly residents. Our tour includes a trip to Cape Byron, where you can photograph dolphins, whales (during their season), and other marine species.

Overnight: Byron Bay
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Byron Bay free time

Today is entirely free for you to hit the beach or further explore Byron Bay. You can spend the morning on the warm sand, shopping for bargains, or participating in one of the area's many optional activities. Take some time to unwind, whether it be by putting your feet up, visiting a cosy bar, or taking a seaside walk to the Cape Byron lighthouse.

If you're feeling courageous and full of energy, our guide will help you plan any additional activities you're interested in, such as surfing classes, skydiving, balloon rides, or snorkelling/scuba diving.

Overnight: Byron Bay

Day 6 - Noosa National Park

Byron Bay - Noosa - Rainbow Beach. Today we are traveling to Noosa, a stunning beach area famed for its top surf spots and champion surfers. We will begin our day by shopping for locally manufactured arts and crafts at Eumundi Markets.

We will then explore Noosa National Park, a small, 28 square kilometre reserve home to koalas, bandicoot, possums and other Australian species. Depending on the time of year, you may also be able to see humpback whales off the coast. We arrive in the rural coastal town of Rainbow Beach, our base for the next two nights.

Overnight: Rainbow Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - K'Gari (Fraser island)

Today we're exploring Fraser Island, recently renamed to its aboriginal name, K'Gari - this translated to 'paradise'. Our included four wheel drive experience sees us drive down the famous 75 Mile Beach Road. Keep a look out for the local dingoes as we travel, and then enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

Overnight: Rainbow Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8 - Brisbane

Rainbow Beach - Brisbane. Today, we are heading to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, also known by many locals as Bris-Vegas. The city will host the 2032 Summer Olympics. This relaxed, sunny, and buzzing city truly represents the quintessential Australian spirit. To get a feel of the city, we take a short walk along the Brisbane River and you can then explore its surroundings independently.

Overnight: Brisbane
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Fly to Airlie Beach

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!

Overnight: Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Whitsundays cruise

Today we're enjoying a fun and picturesque 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.

Overnight: Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 - Mission Beach

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.

Overnight: Mission Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - 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. We end the day in Cairns.

Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Great Barrier Reef snorkelling

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.

Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 - Cairns Farewell

Our tour concludes at Cairns, marking the end of an unforgettable voyage with your fellow tourists.

Our tour finishes at the Flynn Hotel on Day 14, there are no planned activities, so you are free to leave when you wish.

Finishing Point: Crystalbrook Flynn,68/72 Abbott St, Cairns, Queensland

Meals: Breakfast

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Holiday Inn Potts Point
Sydney

Guests at Holiday Inn Potts Point can enjoy sweeping views over Sydney Harbour and across Potts Point from this well-located 4-star hotel. It's a nice walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens to landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the hotel is right next to the train station with easy access to the city centre. It's also just 15 minutes by car from the airport. Rooms are bright and modern with large windows, and there is an onsite bistro restaurant and outdoor terrace. There's also a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi throughout.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Lucky Hotel
Newcastle

Located in the heart of Newcastle and just a few minutes walk from the popular Wharf Road area, the recently renovated Lucky Hotel is a boutique hotel featuring 30 well-appointed rooms with modern furnishings and L'Occitane amenities. The onsite restaurant uses only fresh local ingredients and guests can enjoy a cocktail or beer in The Lounge bar and there is a pretty courtyard area for relaxation and in which to enjoy a drink. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Boutique Hotel
El Motor Inn
Port Macquarie

Located just a few metres from the beach in the heart of Port Macquarie and offering an outdoor pool and BBQ dining area, the El Motor Inn is a great option for exploring Port Macquarie. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and flat-screen TV, whilst some rooms also come with a balcony. Dining is at the onsite El Cafe restaurant, which is open for breakfast and serves Australian cuisine in the evening.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Byron Beachcomber Resort
Byron Bay

Just metres from the beach, Byron Beachcomber Resort has everything you could want for a stay in one of Australia's gems. The resort boasts a solar-heated saltwater pool, a hot tub and a free-to-use BBQ area. Accommodation is in a range of self-catering rooms and apartments decorated in neutral colours and equipped with TV, kitchenette, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. The front desk can help to arrange activities including surfing and snorkelling to fill your Byron Bay free time!

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Rainbow Getaway Apartments
Rainbow Beach

Located in the rural beach town of Rainbow Beach, Rainbow Getaway Apartments are just 5 minutes from the beach and boast an outdoor pool, fitness centre and complimentary Wi-Fi. Self catering apartments are air-conditioned, with flatscreen TV, attached kitchen and private patios or balconies. Activities including dolphin feeding and horse riding on the beach can be arranged at the front desk.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Point Brisbane Hotel
Brisbane

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Mantra Club Croc
Airlie Beach

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.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Mission Beach Resort
Mission Beach

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns

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.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with 4 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers wanting the privacy of their own room or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
1 Dec - 14 Dec
Save 25%
Sold Out
Sold Out
15 Dec - 28 Dec
Save 10%
Sold Out
Sold Out
29 Dec - 11 Jan
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
2025
Twin/Double
Single
12 Jan - 25 Jan
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
26 Jan - 8 Feb
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
9 Feb - 22 Feb
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
23 Feb - 8 Mar
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
2 Mar - 15 Mar
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
30 Mar - 12 Apr
Save 10%
€5,495€4,946
€6,785€6,107
20 Apr - 3 May
€5,495
€6,785
18 May - 31 May
€5,495
€6,785
2026
Twin/Double
Single
11 Jan - 24 Jan
€5,495
€6,785
25 Jan - 7 Feb
€5,495
€6,785
8 Feb - 21 Feb
€5,495
€6,785
22 Feb - 7 Mar
€5,495
€6,785
8 Mar - 21 Mar
€5,495
€6,785
22 Mar - 4 Apr
€5,495
€6,785

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