32 Days Cairns to Sydney Ultimate

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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 yacht, 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, Cape Tribulation & The Great Barrier Reef! All while eating great food, meeting new friends and having a magical time.

Accommodation, Tours and Transport can be upgraded and customized to your liking. Please contact us directly.

Includes

3 Days Sailing Whitsundays
3 Days Fraser Island
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
Half Day Surf Lesson
Everglades Canoe Day Trip
Atherton Tablelands Day Trip

3 Nights in Cairns
4 Nights in Noosa Heads
3 Nights in Airlie Beach
2 Nights on Magnet Island
3 Nights in Byron Bay
2 Nights In Agnes Water
2 Nights in Sydney
2 nights in Surfers Paradise
2 Nights in Mission Beach
2 nights in Brisbane

Greyhound Bus Passes
Experienced & Friendly Guides
Meals as described
Taxes & Fees

Trip length: 32 Days
Group size: Avg 21
Start: Sydney
End: Cairns

Vehicle: Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
Sleep: Hostel, Boat, Camping
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

Meet your guide

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Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

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How it works:

Our incredible East Coast packages are made up of a combination of tours, accommodation, and bus routes. You’ll travel independently between each destination using the Greyhound bus network, which we’ll book and organise for you.

We plan your entire trip to help you save money and time and take away the stress of making sure everything fits together seamlessly.

You’ll stay in some of Australia’s best hostels and explore iconic destinations such as the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Fraser Island with amazing guides and like-minded travellers. No time is wasted and every dollar goes toward maximising your experience!

Day 1: Introduction

This trip offers complete flexibility, allowing you to choose your preferred start date, finish date, and location. You can customise the number of nights as well. We suggest starting from Cairns, Sydney or Melbourne. Here’s an example itinerary starting from Cairns and finishing in Sydney.

Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 2: Cairns – Free Day

Welcome to tropical North Queensland! Spend your first day exploring the laid-back city of Cairns. Visit the lagoon, enjoy a walk along the Esplanade, and check out the night markets for local food and souvenirs.

Accommodation: Hostel in central Cairns

Day 3: Great Barrier Reef

Starting at 7am, dive into the world-famous Great Barrier Reef for a full day of snorkeling or introductory scuba diving. Discover colourful coral gardens and vibrant marine life. Lunch and all equipment are included.

Activities: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 4: Atherton Tablelands

Explore the lush Atherton Tablelands on a full-day tour. Swim at Millaa Millaa Falls, Josephine Falls, and Lake Eacham, and take in the spectacular rainforest scenery.

Activities: 1 Day Atherton Tablelands Tour
Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 5: Travel to Mission Beach

Head south to the tropical town of Mission Beach. Check in to your accommodation and take the rest of the day to relax.

Accommodation: Hostel in Mission Beach

Day 6: Mission Beach – Skydive

Take on one of Australia’s most famous skydives — leap from 15,000ft over stunning beaches and reef views, landing on the sand below. Spend the evening relaxing with your group.

Accommodation: Hostel in Mission Beach

Day 7: Travel to Magnetic Island

Travel to Townsville and catch the ferry across to Magnetic Island. Check in to your beachside hostel, explore, and watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

Accommodation: Hostel on Magnetic Island

Day 8: Free Day on Magnetic Island

Explore the island by scooter or one of the famous “Barbie Cars.” Visit Alma Bay, hike to The Forts lookout for wild koalas, or relax on the beach.

Accommodation: Hostel on Magnetic Island

Day 9: Travel to Airlie Beach

Return by ferry and bus to Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Stroll the main strip, relax at the lagoon, and prepare for your sailing adventure.

Accommodation: Hostel in Airlie Beach

Day 10–12: 3-Day Whitsunday Sailing Adventure

Day 1
Embark on a sailing adventure to one of the Whitsundays' most picturesque islands. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the wonders of snorkeling and scuba diving. As you sail to your first sleeping location in the protected waters of Whitsunday Island, unwind on the deck with a refreshing beer or wine and savor a freshly cooked dinner sourced locally.

Day 2
Rise and shine to a freshly cooked breakfast. Today's activities will depend on the weather and tides. You can look forward to two additional snorkeling sessions at different beautiful locations around the islands, or opt for a quick 10-minute bush walk to Hill Inlet lookout. Capture the breathtaking view and take a leisurely stroll to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Indulge in a fully catered lunch and dinner during the day.

Day 3
Beach Wake up early once again to enjoy breakfast and make the most of your final day in the Whitsundays. Spend more time exploring the beaches and snorkeling spots before heading back to Airlie Beach in the late afternoon. You'll have another night's stay at Nomads and can look forward to an epic after-party with your newfound friends.

Activites: 3 Day Whitsunday Sailing Tour

Food: All Meals

Accommodation: Shared Cabin

Day 13: Free Day in Airlie Beach

Relax after your sailing adventure. Visit the lagoon, explore local cafes, or take a day trip to Cedar Creek Falls.

Accommodation: Hostel in Airlie Beach

Day 14: Travel to Agnes Water / Town of 1770

Travel south to the peaceful surf town of Agnes Water / 1770. Settle into your hostel and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Accommodation: Hostel in Agnes Water

Day 15–16: Free Days in Agnes Water

Enjoy the slower pace here — take a surf lesson, rent a bike, or join the iconic Scooteroo Motorbike Tour. Visit Deepwater National Park or relax on the beach before your next leg south to Noosa.

Accommodation: Hostel in Agnes Water

Day 17: Travel to Noosa

Departing Agnes Water by bus, we arrive into Noosa at 3pm. Spend the afternoon enjoying sunset on the beach.

Accommodation: Hostel in Noosa

Day 18–20: 3-Day Fraser Island (K’gari) Adventure

Today at 7am we start our K’gari (Fraser Island) 3-day adventure.

Day 1: Depart Noosa
Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile Beach - K'gari's (Fraser Island) own highway with speed limits! There, you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (at your own cost) for morning tea. From here, the adventure really begins as we drive to the famous Lake McKenzie, one of the most popular and picturesque highlights of K'gari (Fraser Island). We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear lake waters before driving up the beach to your campsite around 3:00 pm. Settle in for an early dinner, well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!

Day 2: K'gari (Fraser Island)
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on K'gari (Fraser Island)! First stop is Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a relaxing swim. Travelling north, stop at Maheno Shipwreck for a photo opportunity and a short history lesson about this famous K'gari (Fraser Island) icon before continuing on past Indian Head to the stunning Champagne Pools for a dip. Lunch is served at either Maheno Shipwreck or Champagne Pools on Day 2, depending on time constraints, safety and beauty. In the afternoon, travel back to camp for dinner and drinks.

Day 3: Return to Noosa
Start with breakfast before cleaning and disassembling your campsite. Once packed up, you'll drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk where you'll stride through the dunes to find a tropical paradise! Lunch follows your trip to Lake Wabby before you begin the drive down the beach and back to the barge. Once arrived on the mainland, head to the 4WD shed where you can unpack and quickly clean the cars. You will return to your hostel between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

Activities: 3 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour
Food: All Meals
Accommodation: Day 5 & 6 - K'gari campsite
Day 20 - Hostel in Noosa

Day 21: 1-Day Noosa Everglades Canoeing Tour

Explore one of only two Everglades systems in the world. Paddle through mirrored waterways surrounded by dense forest and wildlife. Lunch included.

Activities: 1 Day Everglades Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Hostel in Noosa

Day 22: Travel to Surfers Paradise

Head to the Gold Coast and check in at your Surfers Paradise hostel. Spend the evening exploring the beachfront nightlife or walking the illuminated promenade.

Accommodation: Hostel in Surfers Paradise

Day 23: Surfers Paradise Free Day

Spend a day of thrills at one of the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks, or unwind at Burleigh Heads and Snapper Rocks for coastal walks and sunsets.

Accommodation: Hostel in Surfers Paradise

Day 24: Travel to Byron Bay

Journey south to the laid-back beach town of Byron Bay. Enjoy the bohemian vibe, coastal walks, and local markets.

Accommodation: Hostel in Byron Bay

Day 25–28: Byron Bay Free Days

Take a surf lesson, kayak with dolphins, visit the lighthouse for sunrise, or join a day trip to Nimbin and the hinterlands. Evenings are perfect for live music and beach bars.

Accommodation: Hostel in Byron Bay

Day 29: Travel to Sydney (Overnight Bus)

Say goodbye to Byron Bay and board your overnight bus to Sydney.

Accommodation: Overnight bus to Sydney

Day 30: Arrive in Sydney – Free Day

Welcome to Australia’s most iconic city! Explore Bondi Beach, the Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and enjoy sunset views over the harbour.

Accommodation: Hostel in Sydney

Day 31: Blue Mountains Day Trip

Catch a train to Katoomba and explore the Blue Mountains. See the Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls, and enjoy forest walks before returning to Sydney for a final night out with your travel crew.

Accommodation: Hostel in Sydney

Day 32: Sydney – Farewell

Enjoy your last morning in Sydney at your own pace — grab brunch at Circular Quay, explore The Rocks, or do some final souvenir shopping before continuing your journey or flight home.

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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

Package Inclusions

2 nights in Sydney
3 nights in Byron Bay
Surf school 1/2 day lesson
2 nights in Surfers Paradise
2 nights in Brisbane
4 nights in Noosa
2 hour Noosa kayak rental
3 Day/2 Night Fraser Island Tag Along Safari Tour
2 nights in Agnes Water/1770
3 nights in Airlie Beach
2 day/2 night Whitsundays Sailing Adventure
2 night Magnetic Island Escape with Base Magnetic Island
2 Nights in Mission Beach
4 Nights In Cairns
Atherton Tablelands Day Trip
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip
Meals as described
Greyhound Bus Passes

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.

How do these packages work?

We are essentially creating a travel plan for you. We'll book all your accommodation, transport between towns, tours and other activites for you to do. You just need to show up with your tickets and off you go! All towns are connected together using the greyhound network which will alllow you to move along the east coast freely and timely stopping and starting where you want. 

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.

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. 

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