Itinerary

Day 1: Cairns to Magnetic Island

Leaving Cairns, we set out to Babinda Boulders for a refreshing walk. We then visit the Johnstone River Crocodile Farm to learn more about the most feared animal in Northern Australia; the estuarine or saltwater crocodile. Spend a couple of hours learning how this prehistoric animal has survived and flourished in Australia’s harsh north and see large crocodiles up close and personal. We then drive to Townsville where we take the ferry to Magnetic Island, so named by Captain Cook because his compass went crazy when he sailed past in 1770. This afternoon we take you back in time on the historical forts walk, keeping an eye out for the Koalas in their natural habitat and taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Coral Sea. 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.

Days 2/3/4: Whitsunday Sailing

We jump aboard the ferry first thing this morning to head back to the mainland. We soon reach Airlie Beach where the next adventure awaits – Whitsunday sailing. You will have the opportunity to sun-bathe, snorkel and swim whilst exploring the idyllic Whitsunday Islands on a crewed 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. We disembark in the afternoon of Day 4 and stay overnight in Airlie Beach. (Day 2: D Day 3: BLD Day 4: B)

Day 5: Airlie Beach to Carnarvon National Park

We start early today for our big drive to Carnarvon National Park. Carnarvon national Park is a little known jewel located in the remote Queensland outback and home to Carnarvon Gorge. This remarkable natural attraction features 30km of walking trails, 200 species of birds, ancient plants and Aboriginal rock-art dating back 3500 years. Camp Overnight adjacent to Carnarvon National Park. (D)

Day 6: Carnarvon Gorge

Chances are that your sleep will be broken this morning by the many birds that live amongst the 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 7: Carnarvon National Park to Kroombit Cattle Station

After breakfast we take a short walk amongst the numerous kangaroos and wallabies before we travel 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. (BD)

Day 8: 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. (B L D)

Day 9: Kroombit to Rainbow Beach

After a hearty bush breakfast we head eastwards to Rainbow Beach where we hit the coast for the first time in four days! Rainbow Beach is a vibrant young coastal town, with glistening coloured sands and a relaxed atmosphere. In the afternoon, take part in a cultural demonstration from your guide, learning about the didgeridoo, boomerang and spear throwing and the Rainbow Serpent. This evening relax in our accommodation, located just 100 metres from the beach. (B D)

Days 10/11:  Two Day Fraser Island 4wd 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 10: LD Day 11: BLD)

Day 12: Rainbow Beach to Brisbane

This morning we participate in a sea kayak trip to paddle amongst wild dolphins at Double Island Point. If you are lucky you may also see turtles and thousands of soldier crabs. We then travel south and take a short break at the spectacular lookout at Wild Horse Mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast overlooking Noosa and Mooloolaba before continuing on to Brisbane.

Note: from April 2008 Day 12 will continue to Byron Bay for the night. There will be slight changes to the itinerary for days 12 and 13. 

Day 13: Brisbane to Surf Camp via Byron Bay

We travel south along the coast to the Gold Coast where you can go zorbing (at own expense) – roll down a hill in a 3.5metre plastic ball filled with warm water for a huge amount of fun! We’ll then continue along to Byron Bay where we admire the coastal views at Australia’s most easterly point: the Byron lighthouse. We then head to our secluded surf camp, located beachside to spectacular white sandy beaches on the Coffs Coast. If surfing isn’t for you perhaps sunbake on the crystal white sans or take a walk around the beautiful headland. This afternoon we relax on the beach, hang out and have dinner back at the Mojo Beach House. (D)

Day 14: Surf Camp to Sydney

After a delicious breakfast, hit the beach for your morning surf lesson. Here we meet up with the crew from Mojo Surf (some of Australia's best surf instructors) whose mission is to get you standing on a board by the end of this lesson. You will start with a theory lesson on surfing and then it’s straight out to the beach to get you on a board.
By now you should have the basic surf techniques sorted and some aspiring surfers in the group will be turning at the base of clean breaking waves by the end of this lesson! Travel throughout the afternoon to the stunning city of Sydney, where you will be able to cherish the many great experiences of Australia’s East Coast. (B)