Essential Byron to Cairns - 13 days
Essential Byron to Cairns - 13 days
Essential Byron to Cairns - 13 days
13 Days Starting in Brisbane and ending in Cairns
Visiting: Brisbane, Byron Bay, Noosa Shire, K'gari, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, Cairns, Cape Tribulation
Tour operator:
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
Min:18 / Max:49
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
PREMIUM YOUTH TOUR: This 13-day group tour travels from Brisbane to Cairns along Australia's east coast. Relax on the beaches of Byron Bay, spot koalas in Noosa National Park and take a memorable 4WD drive adventure to Fraser Island. Unwind at Airlie Beach, cruise the picturesque Whitsundays and explore Magnetic Island. Walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, meet aboriginal families and end your journey in Cairns. Recommended for those aged under 55.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Brisbane
Location: Brisbane
Our tour begins in Brisbane, Queensland's capital city. There's a 5pm welcome meeting before we enjoy an included orientation walk along the Brisbane River.
With its laid-back environment, sunshine, and upbeat outlook, Brisbane embodies the unique Australian experience, making it a great backdrop for socializing with the group and getting to know each other.
Day 2: Byron Bay
Location: Byron Bay
Meals Included: Breakfast
Brisbane - Byron Bay. Departing Brisbane, we head to Byron Bay, a peaceful surf sanctuary with limitless coastlines, beautiful golden sand, and a welcoming community.
During an exciting included kayaking expedition in the afternoon, we may have the opportunity to see spectacular marine species such as dolphins, turtles, and whales. The evening is at leisure, why not head out and embrace Byron's famous nightlife?
Day 3: Byron Bay
Location: Byron Bay
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.
Day 4: Noosa
Location: Noosa Shire
Meals Included: Breakfast
Byron Bay - Noosa. 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. Arriving in Noosa, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 5: Fraser Island
Location: K'gari
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Noosa - Fraser Island - Noosa. 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.
Day 6: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Meals Included: Breakfast
Noosa - Airlie Beach. We're on our way to Airlie Beach, a beautiful Whitsundays destination. We take an included domestic flight this morning to reach our destination. Arriving in Airlie Beach, the rest of the day is free to relax or head out and explore.
Day 7: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we enjoy a memorable day cruise through the beautiful Whitsunday Islands. During the trip, we will stop at the famous Whitehaven Beach. Words cannot express the breathtaking beauty of the white sandy beaches, crystal-clear oceans, and lush green flora found in this extraordinary region of the world.
As well as cruising around the islands, you will have the opportunity to don a snorkel and dive beneath the waves in order to see the colourul coral reefs and tropical fish that leave in the area. Returning to dry land after our cruise, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 8: Magnetic Island
Location: Magnetic Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Airlie Beach - Magnetic Island. Magnetic Island is so named because in 1770, Captain Cook noticed a strange magnetic pull on his compass as he sailed past the island. Today, the main drawcard of the island is its healthy fauna poulations, which includes various species like koalas and wallabies, as well as its lush woods and beautiful views of the huge ocean.
We take the ferry to Magnetic Island and during our stay we enjoy an included walk with our tour leader, during which we hope to spot some of the island's resident wildlife.
Day 9: Magnetic Island
Location: Magnetic Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is an entirely free day. You can explore more of Magnetic Island on foot, head for a swim at the coast, or take a leisurely hike through the lush forests of the island. Your guide will be able to recommend activities for you, and you can do as much or as little as you like!
Day 10: Magnetic Island
Location: Magnetic Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Magnetic Island - Cairns. Returning to the mainland, we make our way into the tropics of northern Queensland. On our way to the Atherton Tablelands, we will come across a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Take advantage of the opportunity to have a relaxing swim in the refreshing water.
Then we'll visit Lake Eacham, a beautiful crater lake known for its crystal-clear water, and we can see the amazing 'Curtain Fig Tree'. In addition, we will have the opportunity to visit the charming settlement of Yungaburra, which is recognized for its delicious cuisine.
To conclude the day, we arrive in Cairns, a dynamic and energetic city famed for its tropical climate. Enjoy a brief orientation tour to get acquainted with the city.
Day 11: Cairns
Location: Cairns, Cape Tribulation
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cairns - Cape Tribulation. Today we're taking in the ancient Daintree Rainforest on foot and exploring Cape Tribulation on a short ferry ride. We also visit spectacular Mossman Gorge. During our tour, we will meet a local family that had the honour of hosting the documentary crew of renowned naturalist David Attenborough.
And we are in for a real treat this afternoon. After exploring the rainforest, it's time to tick off the other UNESCO-listed wonder in this area - the Great Barrier Reef. During our included snorkelling tour, keep your eyes peeled for some of the rich marine life that lives along the reef, including tropical fish, turtles, rays and perhaps even a shark or two!
Day 12: Cairns
Location: Cairns, Cape Tribulation
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cape Tribulation - Cairns. Embark on an enchanting crocodile-spotting cruise today, where we have the chance to encounter these prehistoric reptiles, reminiscent of dinosaurs, thriving in their native environment.
Following this thrilling encounter, we will enjoy a two-hour Indigenous experience that includes a cultural immersion in the local community's traditions, cuisine, and rituals.
After an eventful day, we'll return to Cairns and head out for a group dinner on our final night together.
Day 13: Cairns
Location: Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following a hearty breakfast, it is time to say farewell to the group as our tour comes to an end.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hostels & eco cabins -
11 breakfasts & 2 lunches
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12 nights simple accommodation, hostels & eco-cabins
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Escorted by an expert local guide
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All transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles & Magnetic Island return ferry
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Economy class flight Noosa (Sunshine Coast) - Airlie Beach
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Orientation tours in Brisbane, Airlie Beach & Cairns
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Byron Bay kayaking adventure
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Noosa Eumundi Markets visit
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Noosa National Park tour
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Kgari (Fraser Island) 4wd adventure
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
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Airport transfers
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Additional meals and drinks unless specified
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
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Optional activities & additional attractions unless specified above
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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