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Map of Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery including Australia

Unlock Queensland’s best, from forest to foreshore

Explore the golden shores and picturesque rainforests of Queensland on a 12-day adventure from Brisbane to Cairns. Take an off-road jaunt across Fraser Island’s dunes, sail through shimmering waters to discover the impossibly white beaches of the Whitsundays, flop and drop on the palm-fringed sands of Mission Beach, soak up the laidback energy of Airlie Beach after sunset and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Learn to hunt and use native plants from a First Nations guide, encounter crocodiles and colourful birds on a cruise through mangrove thickets and walk under heavy green canopy in the mighty Mossman Gorge. This nature-filled and culturally-rich eco escapade is designed to get you away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and straight to the natural heart of Australia’s north.

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Terms & Conditions
Start
Brisbane, Australia
Finish
Cairns, Australia
Destination
Australia
Style
Comfort
Theme
Explorer
Code
PVBCC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 16

Why you'll love this trip

  • Take an incredible 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island (K'gari). Venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo!

  • Cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-famous Whitehaven beach. Surround yourself with dazzling white sands and azure waters as you discover this idyllic corner of Queensland.

  • Witness the magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef on a bucket-list-ticking snorkelling adventure. Brimming with colourful coral and tropical fish, enjoy an included cruise from Cairns to explore this underwater paradise.

  • Learn how to spear fish and gather medicine on Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) with Kuku Yalanji guides who are committed to maintaining their ancestral traditions and way of life.

  • Take a guided walk along the pristine, rainforest-rimmed beach of Cape Tribulation, where Europeans tried and failed to tame the coastal wilderness for hundreds of years.

Is this trip right for you?

  • There are some long travelling days. (An included flight between Brisbane and Proserpine speeds things up) but it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.

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Daintree-rainforest

Itinerary
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This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 Apr 2020 to 31 Dec 2022.
 View the 2023 itinerary

Your east coast adventure kicks off at 10am in Queensland’s capital of Brisbane (Meeanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located). Head to stunning Fraser Island (K'gari) by ferry. In 2021 Fraser Island had been officially renamed K’gari, the original Butchulla people’s name for the island, meaning 'paradise' - you’ll find out why soon enough. The move was celebrated with a ceremony with Elders and representatives of the region's traditional owners. The name change is a major milestone in a long running campaign by the Butchulla people. This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland's southern coast and tomorrow you’ll head out to explore it in depth, so get a good night’s rest ready for a day of adventure – oh, and look out for dingoes!
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting at 10 am as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. Today's driving time will be approximately 3.5 hours (300km).

After a delicious buffet breakfast, set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island (K'gari). Visit some of the renowned lookout points – perhaps Indian Head or the Cathedrals – for incredible views of the coast, then take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Lake McKenzie – an island icon. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles, Pile Valley’s awe-inspiring Satinay and Brush Box forests as well as Central Station and Wanggoolba, before adventuring along 75 Mile Beach Road – one of the best coastal drives in the country – and taking a dip in the fresh waters of Eli Creek. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters – witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach, in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo. This evening, relax at your accommodation and perhaps join the rest of your group for dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Fraser Island (K'gari) - Highlights by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Transfer back to Brisbane before boarding a flight to Proserpine, then transfer to Airlie Beach, the hub town of the magnificent Whitsundays and home to endless beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. You’ll arrive late in the afternoon, so after settling into your lodgings the evening is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll around and explore, or if the sun is still up why not visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you might feel more at home finding a seat at one of the many bars, grabbing a cocktail or two, and watching the sun set on the shimmering blue water.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
The driving time from Fraser Island to Brisbane Airport will be approximately 3.5 hours (300km). Today's flight departs from Brisbane and arrives into Proserpine (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes). Please note that during certain times of year you will catch a flight from Brisbane to Mackay instead, and will transfer from there to Airlie Beach by private transfer (2 hours, 150km).

After breakfast, take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. Words can’t do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world – Whitehaven is about as impressive as a beach can get, and at 98% pure silica, it’s about as white as a beach can get too. Peel your eyes away from the pristine sands and explore the colourful underwater world surrounding the Whitsundays on a snorkelling adventure. Get up close to a beautiful array of rainbow coral, playful fish and, if you’re lucky, maybe even some friendly turtles. Head back to Airlie Beach and enjoy one last drink in this lively town
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Airlie Beach - Whitsunday Islands Full Day Cruise
  • Whitsunday Islands - Snorkelling
  • Whitsunday Islands - Whitehaven Beach Visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Admire the change of scenery on today's long drive as you jump into your private vehicle and head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach, where World Heritage rainforest meets the colourful Coral Sea. Be welcomed by crystal-clear waters, stunning views and a large population of cassowaries – a flightless bird that thrives in the tropical forests of north-eastern Australia. This afternoon you can enjoy plenty of free time to soak up paradise and do as you please. You might like to wind down with an optional yoga class or go for a swim in the pool. Alternatively, head out in search of the famous cassowary or simply grab a book and find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the tropical bliss.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today's driving time will be approximately 7 hours (550km).

The breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef is on the bucket list of many travellers who venture to this incredible corner of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is brimming with colourful coral and an amazing array of tropical fish, and today you’ll get to witness its magnificence with your own eyes on a snorkelling adventure through this underwater paradise. Cruise out to this famous reef this morning as you hear a marine conservation commentary about the importance of preserving the World Heritage-listed region and how you can do your bit. Then, it’s time to put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the dazzling waters, where you can freely explore a wonderfully rich ecosystem. After an incredible day, head back to the hotel, where you can freshen up and get ready for dinner. Compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Great Barrier Reef - Day Cruise & Snorkelling Adventure
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before venturing into the wet tropics of far north Queensland. Stop off en route to your next destination and discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest. Take a dip in the cool water, then continue on to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful blue-green hues in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. Next, visit the unusual yet fascinating Curtain Fig Tree, a magnificent tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 metres to the forest floor, forming a curtain-like appearance. The day draws to a close as you head to your next overnight stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

This morning we'll pick up some new travellers who'll be joining us in for the next leg at around 11am. With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to hit the road for Port Douglas, with a couple of stops en route to break up the journey. First up is Barron Gorge lookout that looks over a set of tumbling falls bursting from the rainforest. Spend some time ooh-ing and ah-ing at the lookout, then continue to the town of Kuranda. This little mountain village is the perfect place to grab a quick lunch (not included), before hitting the road again at around 2 pm. Settle back into the vehicle for an approximately 1.5-hour drive along the coast to Port Douglas. Take in views of cliffs covered in distinct native flora on one side and glittering blue ocean on the other, with some photo stops along the way. Arrive at the accommodation and spend a few hours settling in. In the early evening, take an orientation tour around Port Douglas. Stop at Trinity Bay lookout point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf. Then you’re in for a real treat – hop aboard a riverboat for a guided cruise among the mangroves in search of wildlife, especially estuarine crocodiles. Finish the cruise with a gorgeous sunset, then head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to the resort for the evening.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Barron Gorge National Park - Din Din Barron Falls lookout
  • Port Douglas - Trinity Bay lookout
  • Kuranda - Kuranda Village Visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers.

Grab breakfast and get ready in time to leave the resort at 8am, jumping on the ferry and crossing the river into the Daintree National Park. Meet up with a local family who live and breathe the rainforest, so much so that they hosted David Attenborough’s documentary crew when they were filming in the area. Spend some time learning from them about the forest, then continue exploring with a cruise along Cooper Creek. Your guide will point out crocodiles, birds and other wildlife while you glide through the water. Stop for an included lunch at a heritage restaurant smack-bang in the middle of the forest, then continue to Cape Tribulation. Take in views over the cape from a lookout, then head down to the beach for a walk and to learn about the region’s history. Return to the resort for the evening, where you can grab dinner at one of the restaurants within walking distance.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Daintree National Park - Cape Tribulation Lookout & Beach Walk
  • Daintree Rainforest - Nature Walk with Local Guide
  • Daintree National Park - Cooper Creek wildlife cruise
  • Daintree National Park - Heritage Restaurant lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Enjoy a day to explore this tropical paradise at your own pace. There are tonnes of activities on offer today, so be sure to talk to your leader about your options when it comes to snorkelling, reef tours, and nature experiences. Your leader will also be on hand today to provide a transfer to Port Douglas town (and back) at 10 am and 6.30 pm if you want to spend the day shopping or grab dinner. If you’d prefer to move as little as possible, you could always take a day to unwind with spa treatments at the resort or chill by the pool with a book.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Grab breakfast before leaving the resort at 8.15 am for a guided walk through the rainforest of Mossman Gorge. Work up an appetite on this gentle 1.5-hour hike, then grab morning tea (not included) before heading to Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) for an educational experience with a member of the local Kuku Yalanji community. Learn to throw a spear, which plants are edible and how Kuku Yalanji people live in harmony with the ever-shifting landscape. Enjoy lunch, then join an Aboriginal painting class in the afternoon. Learn about the significance of traditional and contemporary art and storytelling to First Nations people and leave with a small souvenir. Return to the resort in the early evening and enjoy a few free hours to relax. Grab dinner tonight with your group and toast to the beauty of the country around you.
Accommodation
  • Resort (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Mossman Gorge - Guided rainforest walk
  • Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat tour
  • Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Aboriginal Painting Class
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Enjoy breakfast and time for one last swim before a 10 am departure for Cairns. We will make one drop-off stop at Cairns Airport and then continue back to Cairns where your trip comes to an end at approximately 12pm.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Ferry, 4WD Vehicle, Plane, Sailing boat

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights) Resort (4 nights)

Included activities

  • Fraser Island (K'gari) - Highlights by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach
  • Airlie Beach - Whitsunday Islands Full Day Cruise
  • Whitsunday Islands - Snorkelling
  • Whitsunday Islands - Whitehaven Beach Visit
  • Great Barrier Reef - Day Cruise & Snorkelling Adventure
  • Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour
  • Barron Gorge National Park - Din Din Barron Falls lookout
  • Port Douglas - Trinity Bay lookout
  • Kuranda - Kuranda Village Visit
  • Daintree National Park - Cape Tribulation Lookout & Beach Walk
  • Daintree Rainforest - Nature Walk with Local Guide
  • Daintree National Park - Cooper Creek wildlife cruise
  • Daintree National Park - Heritage Restaurant lunch
  • Mossman Gorge - Guided rainforest walk
  • Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat tour
  • Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Aboriginal Painting Class

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

Travellers on Intrepid trips that start on or before 31 December 2022 are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Learn more about Intrepid’s COVID-19 policy.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

START & END TIME
Your trip starts with a group meeting in Brisbane on day 1 at 10am, and finishes on the last day upon arrival back into Cairns at around 12pm. Please take this into consideration when booking your arrival and departure flights.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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