Itinerary

Day 1: Gold Coast to Rainbow Beach

Leaving the Gold Coast we stop off to try one of the craziest adventure activities ever developed by the kiwis – zorbing (optional extra). Roll down a hill in a 3.5metre plastic ball filled with warm water for a huge amount of fun, and then continue on to Brisbane. We take a short break at the spectacular lookout at Wild Horse Mountain for panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast overlooking Noosa and Mooloolaba, before arriving at Rainbow Beach; a vibrant young coastal town, with glistening coloured sands and a relaxed atmosphere. (D)

Days 2/3: Two Day Fraser Island Tour

Spend the next two days exploring Fraser Island on a ranger guided 4WD safari with Fraser Explorer, staying at Eurong Resort. You will drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, visit Lakes’ Wabby and Mackenzie, Eli Creek, the Maheno Wreck and climb Indian Head. Return to Rainbow Beach for an overnight stay. (Day 2: LD Day 3: BLD)

Day 4: Rainbow Beach to Kroombit Cattle Station

This morning take part in a cultural demonstration from your guide, learning about the didgeridoo, boomerang and spear throwing, and the Rainbow Serpent. After a few hours at Rainbow Beach we head inland through cattle country to Kroombit Cattle Station. Here we experience genuine outback living with the chance to ride a mechanical bull and take a walk of the property. Tonight you will taste a traditional camp oven dinner, cooked in the open fire. (D)

Day 5: Kroombit Cattle Station

Today is jam-packed with wonderful activities also included in the price of your tour. Learn first-hand about Queensland farming life as you participate in a “muster” on horseback, try your skill at trap-shooting and witness a mini-rodeo as animals are herded into the ring. This evening enjoy another hearty camp-oven dinner and re-live your days experiences around the campfire with a beer from the bush bar. (BLD)

Day 6: Kroombit to Carnarvon Gorge

This morning, start the day with a hearty bush breakfast, before heading further inland through Central Queensland’s remote outback to the little known jewel of Carnarvon National Park. Carnarvon Gorge, central to this park is a remarkable natural attraction with 30kms of walking trails, 200 species of birds, ancient plants and Aboriginal rock-art dating back 3,500 years. This afternoon we will get a taste of the gorge with a short walk amongst the numerous kangaroos and wallabies that inhabit the area. Camp overnight adjacent to Carnarvon National Park. (BD)

Day 7: Carnarvon Gorge

Chances are that your sleep will be broken this morning by the many birds that live amongst trees surrounding the camp. After breakfast you will spend the full day hiking through the many walking trails scattered throughout this magnificent gorge. Walks are mostly of easy grade and therefore suitable for all ages and fitness levels, however the options are varied. You will see 500 year old cycads, grass trees and eucalypts, native wildlife and learn about the indigenous ancestors that inhabited this region for more than 3500 years. See the best examples of rock-art in Queensland, made from the ochre taken from the region. After a days exercise, you will return to your camp for a good nights sleep within this wilderness region. (B L D)

Day 8: Carnarvon Gorge to Airlie Beach

We start early today for our big drive from Carnarvon Gorge to the Mackay region. This is the first time we’ve hit the coast in four days and we now follow the coast to arrive at the Whitsunday gateway of Airlie Beach where we stay overnight. (B)

Days 9/10/11: Whitsunday Sailing

You will have the opportunity to sun-bathe, snorkel and swim whilst exploring the idyllic Whitsunday Islands on a yacht worth millions of dollars. Visit the many beaches, coves and islands on this two night sailing trip, with the opportunity to hoist the sails and even take the wheel. Note that you will sleep on the boat, moored in quiet coves. Cabins are share only; no twin and doubles for these two nights. Back on land, we leave Airlie Beach and head to Townsville. From here we take the ferry to Magnetic Island, so named by Captain Cook because his compass went crazy when he sailed past in 1771. This evening, relax with a cold beer and watch the sunset from the beach bar of the only backpackers in Australia located right on the beach. (Day 9: D Day 10: BLD Day 11: B)

Day 12: Magnetic Island to Cairns

You will get up early for a morning hike before taking the ferry back to the mainland.  Today includes a visit to the Johnstone River Crocodile Farm to learn more about the most feared animal in Northern Australia: the estuarine or saltwater crocodile. Learn how this prehistoric animal has survived and flourished in Australia’s harsh north and see large crocodiles up close and personal. From here, we stop at Babinda Boulders for a refreshing rainforest walk. As we arrive into Cairns, you will be able to cherish the many great experiences of Australia’s East Coast.