Days
15
Price from
4995AUD
BC15_ATA_2023_2

Get ready for an incredible 15-day adventure from Brisbane to Cairns

Guided by locals and joined by likeminded travellers, get ready for a journey that blends nature’s wonders, beach bliss, and off-the-beaten-path treasures, making memories that might just last a lifetime.


Start
Brisbane, Australia
Finish
Cairns, Australia
Destinations
East Coast,Fraser Island,Queensland
Style
Shared Dorms
Theme
Code
BC15
Physical rating
Medium
Ages
18+
Group size
Min 8, Max 22

Why you’ll love this trip?

  • Stay a night in the buzzing riverside city of Brisbane
  • Visit the Sunshine Coast and live it up in the resort town of Noosa
  • Embark on a 3-day 4WD Safari to K’gari/formerly Fraser Island. Visit a shipwreck and swim in crystal clear waters before enjoying sundowners and stargazing at Eco Retreat.
  • Stay in the relaxed seaside village of Bargara and taste some of Bundaberg‘s famous rum
  • Explore the breath-taking Whitsunday Islands during a 2-days/2-night sailing trip. Snorkel over vibrant fringing reefs and visit some of the world’s most pristine beaches
  • Embrace your inner nature-lover on Magnetic Island, a wildlife paradise filled with koalas and wallabies
  • Discover the magic of the Atherton Tablelands – from amazing waterfalls and lush rainforest to a pristine crater lake!
  • Enjoy the relaxed Cairns lifestyle and the fun nightlife that it’s famous for!

Is this trip right for you?

  • You’ll travel with a driver/ guide (and get their insider knowledge) and a bunch of like-minded travellers (your new lifelong friends) and explore all the amazing places Aussie has to offer!
  • If you’re eager to explore diverse landscapes, try new activities, and step out of your comfort zone, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
  • If you’re a nature enthusiast who wants to experience Australia’s unique wildlife, stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and pristine islands, this journey has been tailored for you.
  • If you’re curious about the local culture, history, and hidden gems, having knowledgeable local guides will provide you with authentic insights that enhance your travel experience.

 

Itinerary

Arrive in Brisbane, a vibrant hub of art, culture, and adventure. Settle into our central accommodation and take advantage of free City Hopper boat rides along the Brisbane River. Gather at 5pm in the hostel lobby, then venture to Southbank for a taste of its lively bars and eateries.

Accommodation

Selina Brisbane or similar

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Free activities

Catch the Brisbane city ferry

Begin your day in Brisbane, following a trip north to the tropical paradise of Noosa. Breathe in the coastal views and the ‘sun-believable’ vibes. After lunch and a stroll, reach our resort-style Noosa accommodation. Think resort-like amenities, designer dorms, and poolside margaritas. Enjoy an evening exploring the town.

Accommodation

Bounce

Meals

Breakfast & drink on arrival

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, dinner at hostel

Free activities

Swim, walks, lookouts

Guess what? A free day in Noosa. Walk coastal tracks, spot whales, kayak through the Everglades, or take in aerial views with a skydive. Relax on the beach, lay in the sun, and savour Noosa’s local flavours.

Accommodation

Bounce

Optional paid activities

Everglades Kayak, Skydive, Surf Lesson

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Free activities

Chilling by the resort pool, going for a walk in the National Park, visiting the famous beach or checking out the local boutiques and cafes.

Rise early for a unique 3-day Fraser Island adventure. Embark on a 4WD tour of K’gari (Fraser Island), the world’s largest sand island, accessible only by 4WD. Witness shipwrecks, freshwater lakes, and white sandy beaches. At Eco Retreat, managed by Butchulla people, experience nature’s beauty and enjoy campfire stories.

Accommodation

Eco Retreat K’gari K’gari in cabins

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner & Snacks
Included activities

K’gari adventure tour

Wake up to the sunrise and the magic of Fraser Island’s unique treasures. Swim in pristine lakes and explore Fraser Island’s landscapes. Enjoy another night of stories and stargazing at Eco Retreat.

Accommodation

Eco Retreat K’gari K’gari in cabins

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner & Snacks
Included activities

K’gari adventure tour

Head to the mainland after your Fraser Island adventure. Arrive in Bundaberg, known for sugarcane, rum, and fresh cuisine. Arrive at your eco-resort to enjoy a BBQ dinner and a peaceful night.

Accommodation

Kelly’s Eco Resort in villas or similar

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch & Snacks
  • BBQ Dinner
Included activities

K’gari adventure tour

Enjoy a free morning relaxing at the resort and then head to the famous Bundaberg Rum distillery for a tour and tasting. Alternatively, you could choose to head out to Lady Musgrave Island for a Great Barrier Reef adventure day.

Accommodation

Kelly’s Eco Resort or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities
  • Mon Repos Turtle Centre
  • Rum distillery tour & tasting
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Optional paid activities

Lady Musgrave Full Day Snorkel Tour

Free activities

Checking out Bargara Beach

Prepare for a scenic journey to Airlie Beach, your gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Enjoy the ride and the scenery – looking out for Airlie’s stunning views.

Accommodation

Base Airlie Beach or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, bakery, restaurants

After a relaxed morning, set sail to the Whitsunday Islands. Join a maxi sailing yacht and explore secluded beaches, snorkel through reefs, and take in jaw-dropping sunsets. Relax and bond with your sailing crew.

Accommodation

Shared dorm cabins/sections on a maxi sailing yacht

Meals
  • Afternoon Snacks
  • Dinner & Dessert (BYO drinks)
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes

Included activities

Sailing, snorkelling, and exploring the Whitsunday Islands

Wake up in paradise, where each moment is an island dream. Explore the iconic Whitehaven Beach, hike to Hill Inlet Lookout, and snorkel in turquoise waters. Relax in the Whitsundays.

Accommodation

Shared dorm cabins/sections on a maxi sailing yacht

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Morning Tea
  • Lunch
  • Afternoon Snacks
  • Dinner & Dessert
Included activities

Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, bush-walk, sailing, snorkelling

Enjoy your final morning on-board a yacht, have one last magical swim or snorkel and then sail on back to Airlie Beach. This afternoon, we’ll jump back on the bus and head to Townsville. We’ll then catch the ferry over to our next destination of Magnetic island in the late afternoon.

Nearly 50% of ‘Maggie Island’ is national parkland, and it’s surrounded by amazing beaches and abundant wildlife. Your guide will fill you in on the activities you can do around the island over the next couple of days.

Accommodation

Selina or similar

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Morning Tea
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Included Activities

Sailing, snorkelling, Magnetic Island ferry

Today you will wake up in paradise and have a full free day to explore. This beautiful island is home to the historic Forts Complex, which you see in a scenic walk with your Guide. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with some incredible views over the island and ocean beyond. Spend the rest of your day relaxing on the secluded beaches, hiking through native bush or searching for wildlife! Top tip: stay alert and keep your eyes on the trees, Maggie Island is one of the best places in Australia to see koalas in the wild!

Accommodation

Selina or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Meal options

Self-cater, bakery or cafes

Free activities

Walk

Optional activities

Snorkel

We catch the ferry back to the mainland in the morning and then we’ll get on the road again and head up to the stunning Atherton Tablelands. We’ll stop at the famous Millaa Millaa Falls along the way for a swim and some amazing photo ops. We’ll go for a walk and a swim in Lake Eacham – a beautiful crater lake, and visit the heritage-listed Curtain Fig Tree, before making our way to Cairns. Tonight, we’re staying at an amazing resort with its own person-made beach! We’ll have a group dinner at the resort and then check out the legendary Cairns nightlife.

Accommodation

Gilligans Cairns or similar

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Included activities

Magnetic Island ferry, swim, walk, waterfalls

Today is a completely free day so if you have a few too many cocktails last night, enjoy a lazy sleep-in and perhaps some hair-of-the-dog by the pool in the afternoon. If you’re ready for another day of adventure, why not book into a tour of Cape Tribulation or go to see the iconic Great Barrier Reef?

Accommodation

Gilligans Cairns or similar

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Free activities

Hang out at the amazing resort pool, walk the Esplanade, visit the Botanical Gardens

Optional Activities

Cape Tribulation Day trip, bungy jump, Great Barrier Reef trip, skydive, rafting

As your adventure comes to an end, bid farewell to your newfound mates, and cherish the memories you’ve made. You’re leaving with a heart full of fantastic experiences, a deeper understanding of Australia’s unique culture, and, of course, a classic Aussie lingo – G’DAY MATES! Until we meet again.

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Important notes

  • Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 20kg plus a day pack

  • A basic level of fitness is required for medium-length walk

  • Accommodation is in 4-8 shared dorms in a range of hostels, backpacker resorts, eco-lodges.

  • 22 meals are included. We make regular supermarket stops so you can self-cater for other meals, or there are usually quite a few cafe/restaurant options in each location.

  • Subject to minimum numbers

Essential trip information

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