Sleep under the stars, zip over dunes in a 4x4 on a remote sand island, sail from island to island through the Whitsundays on a maxi sailing boat, dive the Great Barrier Reef and see the best Queensland has to offer.
Travelling in small groups, we will be visiting the best of the east coast; Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef! All the while eating great food, meeting new friends and have a great time.
Due to availability, please try to book your package at least 30 days in advance. For dates available contact us directly.
- 2 Nights hostel in Noosa
- 2 Nights hostel in Airlie Beach
- 2 Nights hostel in Cairns
- Greyhound Bus Passes
- 1 Day Fraser Island
- 1 Day Whitsunday Sailing
- 1 Day Great Barrier Reef
- Experienced Guides
- Great for travellers with budgets
- All fees and Taxes
- Trip length: 7 Days
- Group size: Max 24-48
- Start: Cairns
- End: Brisbane
- Vehicle: Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
- Sleep: Hostel
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Itinerary
How it works:
Our incredible east coast packages are made up of a combination of various tours, accommodation and bus routes. You'll be travelling independently between each town using our amazing greyhound bus network that we'll book and organise for you.
We plan out your entire trip to help you save money and time and take away the fuss of making sure everything fits together seamlessly.
We'll be staying in some of Australia's best hostels and exploring iconic destinations such as Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands and the great barrier reef with amazing guides and other likeminded travellers. No time is wasted and every dollar goes towards maximising your experience!
Day 1: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Embark on an exciting day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's natural wonders. Departing from Cairns, the day includes snorkeling or an introductory scuba dive, with all gear and lunch provided. Discover colorful corals, tropical fish, and the occasional sea turtle in this underwater paradise.
Acitivites: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Hostel in central Cairns
Day 2: Travel to Airlie Beach
Hop on a bus to Airlie Beach, a backpacker’s haven known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views. We depart Cairns at 7am, arriveing in the afternoon approximately 5:30pm where we check into our hostel, unwind before heading out to experience the local live music scene.
Accommodation: Hostel in the heart of Airlie Beach
Day 3: 1 Day Whitsunday Islands Sailing
Today is our guided 1 Day Whitsunday Sailing Adventure starting at 7am. Snorkel the vibrant reefs, walk along the pristine white sands of Whitehaven Beach, and hike to the scenic Hill Inlet Lookout for breathtaking views. You’ll end the day with an overnight bus journey to Rainbow Beach starting at 9pm.
Activities: 1 Day Whitsunday Sailing Adventure
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Airlie Beach Hostel
Day 4: Day to Relax
Spend the morning catching up with sleep and exploring the quaint township of Airlie Beach before we depart for Rainbow beach at 5:35pm. This is an overnight bus that will arrive at 10:30am the following day.
Accommodation: Overnight Bus to Noosa
Day 5: Arrive Rainbow Beach
Wake up in the picturesque Rainbow Beach arriving approximately 10:30am. Rainbow Beach is known for its colorful sands and serene vibe. Spend the day as you please—relax on the beach, take a walk to Carlo Sand Blow, or explore the coastal paths.
Accommodation: Hostel in Rainbow Beach
Day 6: 1 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tour
Starting early morning at 7am, we take a ferry to K'gari (Fraser Island) and embark on a thrilling 4WD tour. Explore natural highlights like Lake Mackenzie, Maheno Shipwreck, and Eli Creek, while spotting wildlife like dingoes. The full day includes lunch and ferry transport.
Acitivites: 1 Day Kangaroo Island Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Hostel in Rainbow Beach
Day 7: Arrival in Brisbane
On the final day, travel to Brisbane at 8:20am. Arrive approximately 1pm in the heart of Queensland’s capital city, known for its cultural scene and vibrant atmosphere. Once you arrive in the CBD, the next chapter of your journey awaits!
Extra Activities
Enhance your East Coast adventure with optional activities you can add to any package. These experiences can be included on days where you have free time, added onto tours you’re already doing, or used to extend your trip by an extra night if needed.
Note: Same activities will require you to extend your itinerary duration and to book additional nights accommodation.
Breakfast with Koala
Enjoy a hot Aussie-style breakfast on the deck overlooking a lagoon, while being joined by a friendly koala and a wildlife keeper — a unique way to start your day with animals and nature nearby. After breakfast, you get full access to the park: wildlife presentations, a boat cruise on the lagoon, and the chance to see a variety of Australian animals. 
Included
- Hot cooked breakfast (scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, sausages, croissant or toast, fruit salad, juice, coffee/tea — vegetarian option available) 
- Opportunity to meet and pat a koala on the breakfast deck, with a keeper present 9:00–9:30 AM 
- Entry to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures (wildlife park) 
- Boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon 
- Access to daily wildlife presentations and shows across the park 
- Option for return transfers from Cairns / Northern Beaches / Palm Cove / Port Douglas (or self-drive if you prefer) 
3 Hour Tandem Sky Dive
Soar above Cairns on a tandem skydive from up to 15,000ft, taking in unbeatable views of the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and the tropical coastline before freefalling into the adventure of a lifetime. This adrenaline-filled 1-hour experience is the only skydive located in Cairns, with free return transfers included and optional sunrise departures.
Included
- Tandem skydive up to 15,000ft
- Free return pick-ups from Cairns and surrounds
- 3-month Australian Parachute Federation membership
- Personalised certificate of achievement
- Compulsory Personal Accident Insurance (APF)
3 Hour Barron River Rafting
Spend your afternoon rafting the Barron River, just 20 minutes from Cairns, as expert guides lead you through fun grade 2–3 rapids and the stunning rainforest scenery of Barron Gorge National Park. This half-day adventure is perfect for beginners, offering the right mix of thrills, calm-water sections, and tropical views, with optional transfers from Cairns and Port Douglas.
Included
- Half-day guided whitewater rafting on the Barron River
- Professional river guides
- All rafting and safety equipment
- Full safety briefing and training
- National Park levies and fees
- Optional return transfers from Cairns & Port Douglas (if selected)
1 Day Cape Tribulation Tour
Experience a full day exploring Cape Tribulation and the Daintree with Uncle Brian’s Tours, visiting ancient rainforest, tropical beaches, freshwater creeks, and cruising for wild saltwater crocodiles. With plenty of time in Port Douglas, guided walks, swimming spots, lookouts, and a delicious lunch included, this fun and lively tour is perfect for travellers aged 5+ wanting a big day out from Cairns.
Included
- Informative, fun guides
- Rainforest walks
- Morning tea/coffee & delicious lunch
- Port Douglas stop + 4 Mile Beach
- Wildlife-spotting crocodile cruise
- Daintree River ferry crossing
- Stunning beaches & free time
- Swim in a rainforest creek
- Two scenic lookouts
- All National Park fees
Kuranda Classic Experience
Take a breathtaking journey from Cairns to the rainforest village of Kuranda aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, then return over the canopy of the rainforest with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway — a full-day rainforest adventure that mixes heritage rail charm, lush tropical scenery, and free time to explore Kuranda village.
Included
- One-way ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway (from Cairns Station) with onboard audio commentary and a souvenir trip guide. 
- 10-minute photographic stop at Barron Falls lookout during the train journey. 
- Return trip with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway (gondola ride over the rainforest canopy). 
- Transfer from the Skyrail terminal (Smithfield / Caravonica) back to Cairns or Northern Beaches (if included in the booking). 
- Complimentary water coolers on the train. 
- Free time in Kuranda to explore the village, markets, galleries, or other attractions (own expense).
Introductory Scuba Dive
This is an upgrade to the 1 day trip already included in your itinerary. We give the option for you sign up for introductory dive on the day. All tuition, equipment and a guide are included in the price and we can accommodate both certified and introductory diving.
Included
- Scuba Diving Equipment
- Diving instructor
- Diving lesson
1 Day Cairns Koala & Creatures + City Sights Tour
Get up close with koalas on a guided keeper tour before exploring Cairns’ top highlights, including St Monica’s Cathedral, Cairns Museum, the Botanic Gardens, scenic lookouts and a relaxing visit to Palm Cove. This full-day experience blends wildlife encounters, rainforest scenery, culture, history and coastal charm — perfect for travellers wanting a complete introduction to Cairns.
Included
- Guided wildlife encounter at Cairns Koalas & Creatures
- Keeper-led tour with koala and native animal interactions
- St Monica’s Cathedral visit
- Guided Cairns Museum tour
- Guided walk through Cairns Botanic Gardens
- Devonshire tea (fresh scones, jam, cream + tea/coffee)
- Scenic rainforest lookout stop
- Visit to Palm Cove (free time to explore the beach/jetty)
- Return transfers to/from your accommodation
what to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes
- Warm jacket and long pants
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Chargers
- Torch
- Camera
What is included
TRANSPORT
- All Greyhound Passes
- Whitsunday Sailing
- Great Barrier Reef Boat
- 4WD Bus on Fraser
ACCOMMODATION
- Hostels (5 nts)
- Tour Transfers
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- Included while on Fraser island, Great barrier reef and Whitsundays sailing
EQUIPMENT
- Blankets and sheets
- Sleeping Mattress
- Pillows
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How much luggage can I bring along the East Coast?
You can bring is much as luggage as you like. However, during each tour on the east coast, whether its a 2 day Fraser tour or a 3 Day Whitsunday tour, there will be luggage restrictions - generally to around 10-15kg per person. In these scenarios, you'll be able to leave the bulk of your luggage at your hostel/hotel whilst you're on tour.
Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?
During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance. If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.
Where can I do laundry?
Each hostel and hotel we book you into will have laundry facilities you can use.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
How do I know what date this package is available?
Since these packages are made up of a wide variety of different hotels, tours and transport we need to check that all these things are available one after another from the starting date you need. Although our calendar says that you can go any day you like, please contact us directly so that we can piece it all together for you and reconfirm that everything is ok.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture. Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience. The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings. As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
Cost and Fees
Are there any additional costs?
Whilst you are on the various tours we book for you, you do not need to pay anything extra. All food, accommodation, transport and equipmenet will be provided for you. When you are not on a tour, the only additional costs you need prepare for is food and drink. Accommodation and transport along the east coast will be covered for.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.
Whilst on tour
Where do we stay during our journey?
During our tours we stay in a wide variety of different styles of accommodation. All accommodation are run my friendly and hospitable locals who's job it is to make sure you enjoy your stay. Acommodation varies between hostels, hotels, camping to sleeping on boats! So please check your itinerary for exact details.For those who'd like more privacy, we may be able to upgrade to twin or double rooms with private facilities. Just ask!
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.
What vehicle will we use to explore?
We will be using everything from trains to boats, to buses and in some cases, even a horse! For more specific information on what transportation you'll be on please refer back to your itinerary. Whatever it is though, it will be lots of fun.
What is the weather like on the east coast?
The east coast of Australia is an extremely long piece of coastline and it traverses very different weather patterns, from the temperate south in Sydney to the tropical north in Cairns. Irrespective of the season, In summer, if you are travelling between Sydney and Cairns, you are probably going to either experience wetter more humid weather nearer Cairns. In winter months, clear and dry conditions near cairns and cooler and wetter weather nearer Sydney.
Will I travel with the same people the whole time?
No. This itinerary is made up of various different tours and accommodation. You may run into the same people as you travel along the east coast, however, each tour will have new people who will likely be moving to different cities and destinations after their trip.
How do I travel between destinations?
All destinations such as Noosa Head, Cairns, Airlie Beach, Brisbane etc are connected together using the greyhound bus network. We'll book all your passes for you and provide you with the meeting locations and times. These will be in coordination with your tours and accommodation so that its easy for you to meet each bus to get to your next destination.
What happens if I miss the bus?
If you miss your bus please contact us immediately via phone or email. We'll need to try and push back your other tours and accommodation that we can not gaurantee that this is possible. In most cases, if you miss your bus you may end up missing out on the next tour that we planned for you.
Reviews
“Excellent”
A great adventure was had! We were limited on time and budget and this was the perfect solution. Arranged last minute but had no problems getting ing. Thanks LIA team 5/5
“amazing time”
An amazing adventure travelling up the east coast. We only had a small amount of time and budget and this package was perfect. Thanks again to the LIA team for helping us last minute.







