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East Coast Encompassed

16 days

Journey from Sydney to Cairns on our longest Australia tour. This escorted 16-day group trip takes in all the main highlights of Australia's East Coast, including Brisbane, Newcastle and Cairns. Unwind on the blissful beaches of Byron Bay and explore Fraser Island on a 4WD adventure. See rehabilitated koalas at Port Macquarie, cruise the Whitsundays and dive beneath the waves on a Great Barrier Reef snorkelling excursion. Take in the Daintree Rainforest on foot, walk through Mossman Gorge and spot snapping crocs on an included nature cruise.

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

Tour Overview

Duration

16 days

Starts

Sydney

Ends

Port Douglas

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 & acommodation

Countries

Australia

Arrival Transfer

No

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 14, Lunch: 6, Dinner: 2
Per Person From
NZD$13,865.00
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,000.00
$26,730.00

Tour Highlights

Sydney - Begin your adventure in this iconic city, with a short tour and free time to explore
Hunter Valley - See koalas, kangaroos and more at a wildlife park and enjoy a wine and cheese tour
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
Brisbane - Embark on a guided orientation walk and enjoy free time in Queensland's capital
Airlie Beach & Mission Beach - Unwind with free time to soak up some sun and explore these two resort towns
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
Kuranda - Ride over an ancient rainforest in a gondola, sampling incredible views for miles around
Daintree Rainforest - Explore the rainforest on foot and by boat, keeping your eyes peeled for cros and meeting local families
Port Douglas - Spend three days in this laid back coastal resort, with free time to relax or explore independently

Included

14 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 1 dinner
15 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 sightseeing tours in Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane & Port Douglas
Hunter Valley Conservation Wildlife Park visit & wine, cheese & chocolate tour
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital visit
Byron Bay First Nations experience
Noosa National Park visit
Fraser Island 4WD adventure
Whitsundays Islands cruise with snorkelling
Atherton Tablelands tour
Great Barrier Reef glass-bottomed boat tour and snorkelling
Kuranda rainforest gondola ride
Mossman Gorge / Daintree Rainforest walk
Kuku Yalanji (First Nations) cultural experience
Daintree Rainforest crocodile cruise
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 journey begins in Australia's Harbour City, renowned for its stunning beauty and prominence on the east coast. After settling into your room, join our tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting in the foyer at the starting point hotel and an orientation walk at 6pm. Following that, we will indulge in a delightful welcome dinner, so you can get to know the group. After dinner, the evening is yours to spend how you wish.

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

Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Hunter Valley & wildlife park

Sydney - Newcastle. We depart Sydney and venture into a wildlife park in the heart of the Hunter Valley. This park is home to a variety of native animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and more. During our visit, we will be accompanied by our own personal wildlife ranger who will guide us through the park.

After our exciting wildlife encounter, we have the perfect opportunity to indulge in a wine, cheese, and chocolate tasting tour in the Hunter Valley. This area is known for its exquisite wines, delicious cheeses, and mouth-watering chocolates, making for a truly delightful experience.

We then complete our journey to Newcastle, where we enjoy a brief orientation tour of this vibrant and sunny port city. The evening is at leisure.

Overnight: Newcastle
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

Newcastle - Port Macquarie. After breakfast, we drive to Port Macquarie, where we visit a local koala hospital and meet the dedicated volunteers and their cuddly patients. During our visit, you will come face to face with rescued and rehabilitated koalas and will learn all about these endangered creatures. By visiting the centre, you are directly helping to support the conservation of this Australian emblem.

The evening is yours to relax and take a leisurely stroll along the foreshore in Port Macquarie. As you walk along, listen to the beautiful sounds of the local bird population and keep an eye out for the wild dolphins that frequent the area.

Overnight: Port Macquarie
Meals: Breakfast

Days 4-5 - Byron Bay

Port Macquarie - Byron Bay. On the morning of day 4, join us in a captivating experience with the Gumbaynggirr nation to learn about their rich First Nations culture. This immersive encounter will allow you to connect with the traditional custodians of this land.

It's then time to make our way to Byron Bay, known for its laid-back surfer vibes and endless stretches of picturesque coastline. We enjoy an included visit to Cape Byron, offering one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled as you might spot dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures.

The rest of day 4 and all of day 5 are completely free for you to unwind in Byron Bay. You could hit the beach, book a surf lesson, go kayaking or simply kick back with a book and a coffee in one of the beachfront cafes.

Overnight: Byron Bay
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Noosa National Park

Byron Bay - Noosa - Rainbow Beach. Today we cross into Queensland and make our way to Noosa National Park. Here you will have the chance to spot koalas and other native Australian animals, as well as taking in the stunning scenery. Arriving in Rainbow Beach, the evening is free. Why not head out for a stroll along the beach?

Overnight: Rainbow Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Fraser Island (K'Gari) 4WD adventure

Rainbow Beach - Fraser Island - Rainbow Beach. Experience the thrill of a lifetime on an unforgettable 4WD K'Gari adventure today. Formerly known as Fraser Island, this destination has been recently renamed K'gari, reflecting its original Butchulla name meaning "paradise". We will enjoy a 4WD safari across the largest sand island in the world, where you will have the opportunity to relax and admire the breathtaking scenery from some of Queensland's most renowned lookouts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of a lush rainforest, take a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear lake, and embark on a thrilling dingo-discovery adventure along golden beaches.

After a day of discovery on Fraser Island, we make our way back to Rainbow Beach. The evening is free to chill out in the hotel or head out to explore.

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 - 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!

Overnight: Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - 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.

Overnight: Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 - 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.

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 arrive in Cairns, where we are spending the night.

Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - 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.

Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 - 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.

Overnight: Port Douglas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 15 - 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.

Overnight: Port Douglas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16 - Daintree Rainforest exploring

Today, we delve deeper into the tropical World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. After a short ferry crossing, we’ll explore the ancient rainforest on foot, learning about its unique ecosystem and meeting the local family who once hosted David Attenborough’s documentary crew. Keep an eye out for cassowaries, rare birds, and other fascinating wildlife as you wander through this wonderland.

In the afternoon, embark on an eco-friendly cruise along the Daintree River (Julaymba) aboard the Solar Whisper, a quiet, solar-powered boat. This immersive wildlife experience offers the chance to spot crocodiles, birds, snakes, frogs, and more, with the help of your expert guide and the innovative “CROC CAM” technology.

As the day winds down, enjoy a scenic coastal drive back to Cairns, where your tour concludes upon arrival at approximately 6 pm.

Finishing Point: Crystalbrook Flynn, 68/72 Abbott St, Cairns
Your tour finishes on arrival at the Flynn Hotel at approximately 6:00 pm. Please avoid booking any onward flights from Cairns any earlier than 8pm or contact us to book post-tour accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

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
Paradise Links Resort
Port Douglas

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 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
29 Dec - 13 Jan
$13,865
$16,895
2025
Twin/Double
Single
12 Jan - 27 Jan
$13,865
$16,895
26 Jan - 10 Feb
$13,865
$16,895
9 Feb - 24 Feb
$16,955
$20,495
23 Feb - 10 Mar
$16,955
$20,495
2 Mar - 17 Mar
$16,955
$20,495
16 Mar - 31 Mar
$16,955
$20,495
30 Mar - 14 Apr
$16,955
$20,495
18 May - 2 Jun
$16,955
$20,495
2026
Twin/Double
Single
11 Jan - 26 Jan
$16,955
$20,495
25 Jan - 9 Feb
$16,955
$20,495
8 Feb - 23 Feb
$16,955
$20,495
22 Feb - 9 Mar
$16,955
$20,495
8 Mar - 23 Mar
$16,955
$20,495
22 Mar - 6 Apr
$16,955
$20,495

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