1. Home
  2. Australia
  3. Sydney to Cairns Northbound
Days
14
Price from
6566AUD
Map of Sydney to Cairns Northbound including Australia

Wilderness, wildlife, waterfalls and wine? Enjoy them all – along with pristine beaches and delicious food – on this epic east coast adventure.

Explore Australia’s stunning east coast from the iconic cityscapes of Sydney to the tropical hub of Cairns on an epic trip that hits all the highlights in just two weeks. Sample wine and cheese as you venture through the picturesque Hunter Valley, meet cute and cuddly koalas in an animal hospital near Port Macquarie, hike down for a dip in the cascading waters at Dangar Falls then 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, flop and drop on the palm-fringed sands of Mission Beach and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.

Start
Sydney, Australia
Finish
Cairns, Australia
Destinations
New South Wales, East Coast, Queensland
Style
Comfort
Theme
Explorer
Code
PVOSC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 8
Group size
Min 1, Max 16

Why you'll love this trip

  • 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.

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

  • Keep your eye out for koalas and kangaroos on your way to a cheese, chocolate and wine-filled lunch in the chilled-out Hunter Valley – a picturesque region in the rural hills of New South Wales.

  • 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.

  • 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 – it’s a hard life!

Is this trip right for you?

  • This trip covers around 2600km / 1615miles over 14 days. 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.

  • The weather can change considerably between Sydney and Cairns. Please check out the weather info in this document and pack accordingly.

  • This trip visits some amazing beaches along the way. Please consider your swimming competency before getting in the water.

PVOS_queensland_great-barrier-reef_snorkelling
PVOS_queensland_fraser-island_indian-head_dingo
PVOSB_new-south-wales_hunter-valley_vineyard
PVOSB_new-south-wales_dorrigo-national-park
PVOS_new-south-wales_port-macquarie_koala-hospital

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

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 expert leader and fellow travellers at 2 pm 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)
Optional Activities
  • Eat, Drink, Walk Sydney - Urban Adventure - AUD109
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. Your own personal wildlife ranger will be keeping an eye out for koalas and kangaroos as you make your way to lunch – yes, there will be cheese, and wine, and chocolate (the Hunter is famous for it!). After you’ve gorged yourself on a delicious feast, sleep off the food coma as you 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 and organic vodka distillery tour
  • Wildlife Park
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After an amazing local breakfast, hit the scenic Lakes Way and witness epic coastal views at their best as you drive past pristine beaches and lakeside communities. 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. Afterwards, continue your journey to Port Macquarie in time for a sunset cruise – keep an eagle eye out for local pods of dolphins as you enjoy the perfect end to a scenic day.
Accommodation
  • Motel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Port Macquarie sunset cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning, meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital (cute!). If you’re able to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, you’ll be rewarded with a stop in Nambucca Heads to share in a unique and immersive Gumbaynggirr First Nations experience that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land, lore and ancient cultural knowledge. Finish the day in true Aussie style in the Dorrigo National Park, 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
  • Dangar Falls
  • Koala Hospital - Port Macquaire
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning, check out the beautiful surrounds of Dorrigo National Park, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest and waterfalls. Check out Dangar Falls and opt for a refreshing dip in its cascading waters, accessed by a short walking trail (approximately 20 minutes) leading down to the base of the falls. Alternatively, stay dry and appreciate its mammoth beauty from a small viewing platform. Next, head to 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 for the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life (Get your eagle eye ready, or perhaps just bring binoculars). Finish the afternoon by popping to an organic farm where you’ll pick and prepare a healthy and delicious dinner.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Byron Bay farm to plate organic dinner
  • Giingan Cultural Experience
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

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
  • Yoga in Byron Bay - AUD70
  • Learn to Surf Byron Bay - AUD70
  • Kayak Tour Byron Bay - 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
There are no meals included on this day.

After a delicious buffet breakfast, set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island. 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
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Fraser Island 4WD day trip
Meals Included
  • Lunch

Transfer back to Brisbane before boarding a flight 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)
Included Activities
  • Flight Brisbane to Airlie Beach
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today's flight departs approx. 1:40pm from Brisbane to Proserpine

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 sailing
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. Alternately, 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

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 final stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (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
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise
Optional Activities
  • Beautiful Cairns: Hiking, Nature & Epic Views - Urban Adventure - AUD79
  • Cairns by Night - Urban Adventure - AUD90
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Your east coast experience comes to an end after breakfast. With so much to do in this bustling hub, enquire about booking some extra nights in Cairns for further exploration of this tropical paradise.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Meals

10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

private bus, Plane

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights), Motel (1 night), Pub (1 night)

Included activities

  • Hunter Valley wine, cheese, chocolate and organic vodka distillery tour
  • Wildlife Park
  • Port Macquarie sunset cruise
  • Dangar Falls
  • Koala Hospital - Port Macquaire
  • Byron Bay farm to plate organic dinner
  • Giingan Cultural Experience
  • Fraser Island 4WD day trip
  • Flight Brisbane to Airlie Beach
  • Whitsunday Islands sailing
  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

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

Prices may go up, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month

Important notes

1. Day 1 is an arrival day. There is a joining meeting at 2pm today to meet your guide and group.
2. A single supplement is available for this trip and is applicable for all nights
3. As this is a combination trip, the composition of your group, may change on Day 7 in Brisbane.
4. This trip is part of an 18 day East Coast Ecompassed trip from Sydney to the Daintree. See code PVSCD

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.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Check Availability