42 Days Cairns to Melbourne 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
1 Day Blue Mountains Tour

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

Greyhound/Premier Bus Passes
Experienced & Friendly Guides
Meals as described
All Accommodation
Taxes & Fees

Trip length: 42 Days
Group size: Avg 21
Start: Cairns
End: Melbourne

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

Highlights

Meet your guide

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Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

See Map

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: Arrival in Cairns

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: Great Barrier Reef

Dive into the world-famous Great Barrier Reef for a full day of snorkeling or scuba diving. Spot turtles, reef sharks, and colourful fish. All gear, snacks, and lunch are included.

Activities: Full-day reef tour
Food: Lunch and snacks
Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 3: Cairns Free Day

Explore Cairns at your own pace. Visit the swimming lagoon, stroll along the Esplanade, grab coffee at local cafes, or see what events are happening around the city.

Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 4: Cape Tribulation Adventure

Head north into the Daintree rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Spot saltwater crocodiles, search for the rare Cassowary, take part in an Indigenous smoke ceremony, and enjoy scenic drives. Lunch and snacks included, with a visit to an ice cream factory.

Activites: 1 Day Cape Tribulation Tour
Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 5: Cairns Relaxation

Take a rest day at the Cairns Lagoon, catch up on errands, or simply relax before travelling to Mission Beach.

Accommodation: Hostel in Cairns

Day 6: Travel to Mission Beach

Travel south to Mission Beach. Check into your hostel, enjoy the beach, take photos under iconic palms, and stargaze at night in low-light conditions.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Mission Beach

Day 7 & 8: Mission Beach Adventures

Day 7 is for adrenaline seekers—experience a beach landing skydive! Day 8 is free to relax and explore the town at your own pace.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Mission Beach

Day 9–11: Magnetic Island

Ferry to Magnetic Island for three days of island life. Relax on secluded beaches, enjoy palm-lined shores, and soak up the tropical vibes.

Accommodation: Hostel on Magnetic Island

Day 12 & 13: Airlie Beach

Spend two days enjoying Airlie Beach. Swim in the lagoon, hike nearby trails, or experience the nightlife and local culture.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Airlie Beach

Day 14–16: Whitsunday Islands Sailing

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 17: Free Day in Airlie Beach

Explore Airlie Beach at your own pace. Wander the main street, visit cafes, or simply relax after your sailing adventure.

Accommodation: Central Airlie Beach hostel

Day 18: Travel to Rainbow Beach

Board the bus to Rainbow Beach. Enjoy the coastal scenery and unwind before your beachside adventure.

Accommodation: Overnight bus to Rainbow Beach

Day 19: Rainbow Beach Free Time

Spend two days relaxing on Rainbow Beach. Visit Carlo Sandblow, enjoy brunch, and prepare for your Fraser Island trip.

Accommodation: Hostel in Rainbow Beach

Day 20–22: Fraser Island 4WD Safari

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 20 & 21 - K'gari campsite
Day 22 - Hostel in Noosa

Day 23: Arrive in Noosa

Travel to Noosa, explore beaches, Hastings Street, and the coastal National Park.

Accommodation: Deluxe hostel in Sunshine Beach

Day 24: Noosa Everglades Canoeing

Glide through the serene Noosa Everglades with a local guide, exploring mangroves, waterways, and abundant wildlife.

Accommodation: Deluxe hostel in Sunshine Beach
Activities: 1 Day Canoe of Everglades

Day 25: Australia Zoo

Meet kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and other Aussie wildlife at the famous Australia Zoo.

Accommodation: Deluxe hostel in Sunshine Beach

Day 26: Free Day in Noosa

Relax on the beach, explore the National Park, or take care of personal tasks before continuing your journey.

Accommodation: Deluxe hostel in Sunshine Beach

Day 27 & 28: Brisbane

Explore Brisbane’s Southbank, Botanical Gardens, CityCat ferry, and nightlife in Fortitude Valley.

Accommodation: Central Brisbane City hostel

Day 29 & 30: Surfers Paradise

Enjoy sun, sand, and surf in the Gold Coast’s iconic city. Relax and soak up the beach life.

Accommodation: Hostel in Surfers Paradise

Day 31: Byron Bay Arrival

Travel to Byron Bay, a hub for surfers, creatives, and young travellers. Explore beaches, coastal walks, and local eateries.

Accommodation: Byron Bay beachy hostel

Day 32: Surf Lesson in Byron Bay

Take a half-day surf lesson guided by local professionals and ride the waves like a pro.

Accommodation: Byron Bay beachy hostel
Activities: Half day surf lesson

Day 33: Kayak with Dolphins

Paddle through Byron Bay with a guided kayak tour. Spot dolphins and explore the headlands and beaches from the water.

Accommodation: Byron Bay beachy hostel
Activities: Morning Kayak Tour

Day 34 & 35: Byron Bay Free Days

Relax, surf, or enjoy Byron’s renowned vegan cuisine during your final days in this coastal paradise.

Accommodation: Byron Bay beachy hostel

Day 36: Travel to Sydney

Head to Sydney, home of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. Prepare for an exciting city adventure.

Accommodation: Overnight bus to Sydney Central

Day 37 & 38: Explore Sydney

Visit Bondi Beach, local markets, the Opera House, and Circular Quay. Experience Sydney like a local.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Sydney

Day 39: Blue Mountains Adventure

Hike the Blue Mountains with a guide, explore valleys, see the Three Sisters, and learn about Indigenous history.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Sydney
Activities: 1 Day Blue Mountain Tour

Day 40: Sydney Free Day

Explore Sydney’s suburbs, take photos, or follow your own adventure plans on your final day in the city.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Sydney

Day 41: Travel to Melbourne

Journey to Melbourne and enjoy its vibrant coffee scene, arts, and culture.

Accommodation: Overnight bus to Melbourne

Day 42: Melbourne Free Day

Explore Melbourne at your own pace—bars, galleries, street art, and markets await. Your trip concludes here.

See Map

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

4 nights in Cairns (hostel in the heart of Cairns)
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip with snorkeling and optional scuba diving, including lunch and snacks
Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest day trip with Indigenous smoke ceremony, wildlife spotting, and lunch/snacks
2 nights in Mission Beach (central hostel)
Mission Beach beach landing skydive experience
3 nights Magnetic Island escape (cabins)
3 nights in Airlie Beach (central hostel)
2 day/2 night Whitsundays sailing adventure with meals included
1 free day in Airlie Beach
Overnight bus to Rainbow Beach
2 nights in Rainbow Beach (hostel on main strip)
3 Day/2 Night Fraser Island 4WD Safari including lakes, shipwreck, and camping under the stars
4 nights in Noosa (deluxe hostel in Sunshine Beach)
Noosa Everglades canoe tour
2 nights in Brisbane (central city hostel)
2 nights in Surfers Paradise (hostel)
3 nights in Byron Bay (beachy hostel)
Half-day surf lesson in Byron Bay
Kayak tour with dolphins in Byron Bay
3 nights in Sydney (central hostel)
Blue Mountains day trip with guided hike and Three Sisters visit
Overnight bus to Melbourne
Meals as described throughout the itinerary
Greyhound bus passes / intercity travel

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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How it works:

Day 1: Arrival in Cairns

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef

Day 3: Cairns Free Day

Day 4: Cape Tribulation Adventure

Day 5: Cairns Relaxation

Day 6: Travel to Mission Beach

Day 7 & 8: Mission Beach Adventures

Day 9–11: Magnetic Island

Day 12 & 13: Airlie Beach

Day 14–16: Whitsunday Islands Sailing

Day 17: Free Day in Airlie Beach

Day 18: Travel to Rainbow Beach

Day 19: Rainbow Beach Free Time

Day 20–22: Fraser Island 4WD Safari

Day 23: Arrive in Noosa

Day 24: Noosa Everglades Canoeing

Day 25: Australia Zoo

Day 26: Free Day in Noosa

Day 27 & 28: Brisbane

Day 29 & 30: Surfers Paradise

Day 31: Byron Bay Arrival

Day 32: Surf Lesson in Byron Bay

Day 33: Kayak with Dolphins

Day 34 & 35: Byron Bay Free Days

Day 36: Travel to Sydney

Day 37 & 38: Explore Sydney

Day 39: Blue Mountains Adventure

Day 40: Sydney Free Day

Day 41: Travel to Melbourne

Day 42: Melbourne Free Day

CLOTHING

EQUIPMENT / OTHER

Package Inclusions

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

What should I pack?

What immunisations do I need?

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

How much luggage can I bring along the East Coast?

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

Where can I do laundry?

Do I need travel insurance?

How do these packages work?

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Does the tour price include flights?

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

How do I know what date this package is available?

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Cost and Fees

Are there any additional costs?

Do I need to tip our guide?

Whilst on tour

Where do we stay during our journey?

Can you cater of special diets?

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

What vehicle will we use to explore?

What is the weather like on the east coast?

Will I travel with the same people the whole time?

How do I travel between destinations?

What happens if I miss the bus?

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