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Experience the very best of the east coast, from Australia’s oldest city to the world’s oldest rainforest.

Explore Australia’s stunning east coast from the iconic cityscapes of Sydney to the eco-paradise of the Daintree on an epic trip that hits all the highlights in under three weeks. Sample wine and cheese in the picturesque Hunter Valley, meet cute and cuddly koalas in an animal hospital near Port Macquarie and hang loose in the bustling beachside town of Byron. Next, follow the sun-kissed coastline to Queensland and take an off-road adventure across Fraser Island, sail through the picture-perfect islands of the Whitsundays and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Finally venture deep into the world’s oldest tropical rainforest to understand the power of native plants from a First Nations guide, encounter crocodiles on a cruise through mangrove thickets, and stroll along the rainforest-rimmed beach of Cape Tribulation.

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Start
Sydney, Australia
Finish
Cairns, Australia
Destination
Australia
Style
Comfort
Theme
Explorer
Code
PVSCD
Physical rating
Ages
Min 8
Group size
Min 1, Max 16

Why you'll love this trip

  • Soak up the beachside vibes of Byron Bay with a free day in this surfer’s haven. Go for a dip in the ocean, listen to buskers by the beach, join a yoga class or just hang loose in a quirky cafe.

  • Take an incredible 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island. Venture across undulating sand dunes in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo!

  • Cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays – surround yourself with dazzling white sands and azure waters as you discover this idyllic corner of Queensland.

  • Experience the Great Barrier Reef on a 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.

Is this trip right for you?

  • This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves a lot of walking, allowing you to really get among nature. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothing.

  • This trip covers a lot of ground and 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.

PVOS_new-south-wales_dorrigo-national-park_waterfall_traveller
PVOS_new-south-wales_port-macquarie_koala-hospital
mossman_gorge
PVOS_queensland_great-barrier-reef_snorkelling
crocodile_daintree_rainforest
cassowary_queensland_rainforest
PVOSB_new-south-wales_byron-bay_watagoes-beach
PVOS_queensland_fraser-island_indian-head_dingo
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Brisbane skyline at night
PVOSB_new-south-wales_sydney_bondi-beach

Itinerary
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Your Australia adventure begins in the iconic harbour city of Sydney, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Make your own way to the joining hotel where you’ll meet your leader and fellow travellers at 2pm for a welcome meeting in the lobby. Afterwards, head out to explore the historic area around the hotel before heading out for dinner. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to see and do – why not head down to Circular Quay and check out the world-famous Opera House, or if you’re feeling brave, opt to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge to catch an epic view over this stunning city. Alternatively, you might like to take the ferry over to Manly Beach for some sun, sea and surf – soaking up the panoramic view of the iconic Sydney cityscape as you cruise along the glittering waters.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sydney - Welcome Dinner
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting at 2 pm 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.

Leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind for the chilled-out Hunter Valley – a picturesque wine region in the rural hills of New South Wales. On your way visit a wildlife sanctuary where a wildlife ranger will be keeping an eye out for koalas and kangaroos for you. Make your way to what the Hunter Valley is best known for – yes, there will be cheese, and wine, and chocolate (the Hunter is famous for it!). Continue your drive to Newcastle. It may only be a fraction the size of Sydney, but this beach side city is jam-packed with trendy bars and a buzzing arts scene. This evening why not head out for a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants or simply settle in at a friendly pub for a night of live, local music.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Hunter Valley - Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting
  • Hunter Valley - Wildlife Sanctuary Visit with Ranger
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After a local breakfast, hit the scenic Lakes Way and witness epic coastal views at their best as you drive past spectacular beaches and lakeside communities. Hit the pristine waters of Wallis Lake on a lunch cruise and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great Lakes (approx. 2.5 hours). Continue on your way north and in the afternoon stretch your legs on a leisurely walk and climb to a lookout where you can take a moment to soak up panoramic vistas of New South Wales’ breathtaking shoreline. Continue your journey to Port Macquarie where you’ll spend the night.
Accommodation
  • Motel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Forster - Wallis Lake Lunch Cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

This morning, meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital (cute!). If you’re able to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, continue to the country town of Dorrigo via the spectacular Waterfall Way and Dorrigo National Park, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest, a remainder of the forests that once covered the ancient supercontinent of Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals which remained relatively unchanged from their ancestors over such a long period. See Dangar Falls and if time allows, take a refreshing dip in its cascading waters. Finish the day in true Aussie style in Dorrigo at a traditional pub where you can relax, order some grub, have a few drinks and even play some pool. Why not opt for an Aussie classic like a chicken ‘parma’, or the quintessential meat pie (tomato sauce optional, but recommended!).
Accommodation
  • Pub Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Port Macquaire - Meet Volunteers at the Koala Hospital
  • Dorrigo National Park - Dangar Falls
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning head back towards the coast and be rewarded with a stop in Niigi Niigi (Orara East State Forest) to share in the unique and immersive Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land, lore and ancient cultural knowledge. Enjoy 360 degree views, experience speaking language and practice culture on Country. Next up is Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. On arrival, pay a visit to the local lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life (Get your eagle eye ready, or perhaps just bring binoculars). Then discover a side to Byron bay that not many visitors have the chance to experience: Enjoy a walk with Cockatoo Paul, a colourful local character, and learn about useful plants found in an urban environment: edible, medicinal and more. If you are lucky on the day, you can spot a small bat colony, and will also have the chance to learn how to make a fire by friction, and a useful demo on how to make a palm frond basket in the wild
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Byron Bay - Walking Tour with Cockatoo Paul
  • Niigi Niigi/Orara East State Forest - Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Get up early or sleep late, sunrises are pretty ace at from Australia's most easterly point, but the choice is yours. It’s a free day today so perhaps kick-start the morning with a swim in the ocean or hunt down the best cold-brew coffee from one of Byron’s quirky cafes. Stroll along the streets and check out the trendy boutiques or stretch out your limbs at an optional yoga class. If you’re a seafood fan, head to The Balcony Bar for some delicious oysters or simply enjoy a cocktail or two as you people-watch from the outdoor terrace. If the waves are right, why not try your hand at surfing or just loll about on the one of the endless beaches. It’s a hard life.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Byron Bay - Yoga Lessons - AUD70
  • Byron Bay - Learn to Surf - AUD70
  • Byron Bay - Sea Kayaking Tour - AUD64
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Rise and shine as you begin your adventure from Byron Bay to Brisbane, then through to sun-kissed Noosa, visiting one of Australia’s top surf locations on the way. Go koala-spotting in a national park before arriving on the stunning Fraser Island for the evening. The local Butchulla people call it K’gari (paradise), and you’ll find out why soon enough. 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 have the chance to explore it, so get a good nights rest ready for a day of adventure – oh, and look out for dingoes!
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

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
Today's flight departs from Brisbane and arrives into Proserpine. 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.

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
  • Whitsunday Islands - Full Day Sailing Adventure
  • Whitsunday Islands - Snorkelling
  • Whitsunday Islands - Whitehaven Beach Visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Admire the change of scenery today 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

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 stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

After breakfast, chill out at your hotel, then join another group meeting at 11 am, where you’ll meet some new travellers joining you for the next stage of your adventure. 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 a 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. 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 in the twilight. 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.
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, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a welcome meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and meet travellers joining you. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Grab breakfast and get ready in time to leave the resort at 8am, jumping on the ferry and crossing the river into the Daintree Rainforest. 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

16 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners

Transport

Private Bus, Plane

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights), Resort (5 nights), Motel (1 night)

Included activities

  • Sydney - Welcome Dinner
  • Hunter Valley - Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting
  • Hunter Valley - Wildlife Sanctuary Visit with Ranger
  • Forster - Wallis Lake Lunch Cruise
  • Port Macquaire - Meet Volunteers at the Koala Hospital
  • Dorrigo National Park - Dangar Falls
  • Byron Bay - Walking Tour with Cockatoo Paul
  • Niigi Niigi/Orara East State Forest - Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
  • Fraser Island (K'gari) - Highlights by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach
  • Whitsunday Islands - Full Day Sailing Adventure
  • 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 East Coast Encompassed 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 are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Read details here.

START & END TIMES
Your trip starts with a group meeting at 2pm on day 1 in Sydney, 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.

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.

COMBINATION TRIP
As this is a combination trip, the composition of your group may change on Day 7 in Brisbane and on day 14 in Cairns.

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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