14 Days Sydney to Cairns Tour

The Sydney to Cairns tour itinerary has it all – the must-see attractions – Sydney’s harboursnorkelling the Great Barrier ReefWhitehaven Beach and koalas – but also the local secrets you wouldn’t find alone. And along the way? Regional food, wine and real Aussie hospitality. Ready to see the East Coast at its best?

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DEPARTS
6:00 pm
RETURNS
10:00 am
Days
14
PRICE from
$8490 AUD
$7217 AUD

Operates

SUN

Touring Route

Trip Style
Comfort
Language
English
Age Restriction
From 12 years old
Group Size
Max 16 people

Highlights

  • Boutique travel experience – small group tour with a relaxed pace and custom itinerary for those who want comfort without missing out.

  • Wildlife conservation park – see kangaroos, wombats, emus and other Aussie native animals up close.

  • Hunter Valley flavours – wine, artisanal cheese, and chocolate.

  • Gumbaynggirr First Nations cultural immersion – connect with traditional custodians through storytelling, language and history.

  • Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie – learn about the rescue, care and release of these beloved marsupials.

  • Byron Bay’s coastal lifestyle – visit Cape Byron

  • Lighthouse and take in the views.

  • 4WD adventure on K’gari (Fraser Island) – drive across the world’s largest sand island.

  • Red Cat Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach – full day island cruise with snorkelling and guided walks.

  • Atherton Tablelands exploration – swim in crater

  • lakes, visit waterfalls and spot wild platypus.

  • Great Barrier Reef Ocean Freedom day trip – snorkelling, glass bottom boat, and learn about marine life.

Trip Inclusions

  • 13 nights boutique-style accommodation (private or shared) with ensuite

  • 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

  • National Park entry fees

  • Wine, cheese and chocolate tasting in Hunter Valley

  • First Nations cultural experience

  • Wildlife park visit

  • Small group 4WD adventure tour on K’gari

  • Whitsundays day cruise with snorkelling gear

  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise with snorkelling & glass bottom boat

  • Guided nature and coastal walks (17 km total)

  • Driver-guide with local knowledge

  • All transport: small group vehicle, transfers, domestic flight and boat travel

  • Sydney start / Cairns finish

What to Bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Your sense of adventure
  • Water bottle &/or Camelbak (2L minimum)
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Swimmers and beach towel
  • Hand sanitiser and insect repellent
  • Hat and sunscreen
  • Torch or headlight
  • Snacks for the bus in your day bag
  • Thermals, bed socks, warm clothes, hot water bottle (Oct–Nov, Mar–Apr)
  • Reusable facemasks
  • Money for snacks and meals

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney

Your East Coast adventure begins in Sydney, the harbour city that tops the New South Wales coast. Check in, freshen up and meet your tour leader and fellow travellers at 6 pm for a welcome meeting. Then enjoy a group dinner, the perfect way to break the ice for your first night together.
Included:

  • Welcome meeting with your group and tour leader
  • Group dinner

Meals: Dinner
Driving Distance: None
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Potts Point or similar

Day 2: Hunter Valley & Newcastle

Leave the city behind and head to a wildlife park to see koalas, kangaroos, emus and more. Then into the Hunter Valley to taste fine wines, handcrafted cheeses and gourmet chocolates. Finish the day in Newcastle with a short orientation tour and check into your accommodation.
Included:

  • Wildlife conservation park visit – meet native
  • Australian animals
  • Wine, cheese and chocolate tasting in Hunter Valley
  • Newcastle orientation tour

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 280 km
Walking Distance: Easy short walks
Accommodation: Lucky Hotel Newcastle or similar

Day 3: Port Macquarie & Koala Hospital

After breakfast, head north to Port Macquarie to visit the famous Koala Hospital. Learn about their rescue, rehabilitation and release programs and how your visit helps their conservation work. Tonight is free to dine at your leisure.
Included:

  • Visit to Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
  • Foreshore walk with possible wild dolphin sightings

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 250 km
Walking Distance: Easy walks and lookout points
Accommodation: El Paso Motor Inn or similar

Day 4: Niigi Niigi Lookout & Byron Bay

Start the day with a Gumbaynggirr First Nations experience, immersing yourself in stories, language and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Then head to Byron Bay. Here, visit the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly point of mainland Australia and take in the views – a great spot to see whales in season or dolphins year-round.
Included:

  • Gumbaynggirr First Nations cultural activity
  • Visit to Cape Byron Lighthouse and lookout

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 400 km
Walking Distance: Short walks/lookout points
Accommodation: Beachcomber Byron Bay or similar

Day 5: Byron Bay

Today is a free day. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, shopping the boutiques or join optional activities like surfing lessons, kayaking, whale watching (in season), hot air ballooning or local brewery tours.
Included:

  • Free day for optional activities and self-guided exploration

Meals: None
Driving Distance: None
Accommodation: Beachcomber Byron Bay or similar

Day 6: Noosa & Rainbow Beach

Enter Queensland and head to Noosa, where you’ll visit Noosa National Park and maybe spot some koalas in the wild. Wander Hastings Street and Main Beach before heading to Rainbow Beach for the next two nights.
Included Activities:

  • Noosa National Park visit
  • Noosa orientation tour, including Main Beach and
  • Hastings Street

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 420 km
Walking Distance: Easy short walks/lookouts
Accommodation: Rainbow Getaway Apartments or similar

Day 7: K’gari (Fraser Island)

Full day 4WD adventure tour of K’gari also known as Fraser Island. Explore the largest sand island with rainforests walks, swim at the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, see the famous S.S. Maheno shipwreck, and stroll along 75 Mile Beach and wild dingoes. Keep your eyes open!

Included Activities:

  • Full day 4WD guided tour of K’gari

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: 200 km
Walking Distance: Easy walks/lookouts (approx. 5 km)
Accommodation: Rainbow Getaway Apartments or similar

Day 8: Brisbane

Head south to Brisbane, Queensland’s laid-back capital. Short orientation tour and then free time to explore. Discover the beauty of Brisbane for yourself with a stroll or ferry ride along the aptly named Brisbane River and its scenic surroundings.

Included Activities:

  • Brisbane orientation tour

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 240 km
Walking Distance: Easy strolls
Accommodation: The Point Hotel Brisbane or similar

Day 9: Brisbane to Airlie Beach

Fly from Brisbane to Proserpine in the Whitsundays Islands located in Airlie Beach. Check in to your accommodation and free time to wander Airlie Beach, relax by the lagoon or find one of the many cafes or bars.

Included Activities:

  • Domestic flight Brisbane to Proserpine (Whitsundays)
  • Free time in Airlie Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 40 km
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar

Day 10: Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven Beach

After breakfast, set off on a full-day speedboat tour aboard the award-winning Red Cat Adventures Thundercat. Visit the famous Whitehaven Beach and enjoy a guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout with stunning views of turquoise waters and white sands.Snorkel in the clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park among vibrant coral and tropical fish. Return to Airlie Beach to relax or explore local food and drink spots.

Included Activities:

  • Whitsundays full day cruise with snorkelling
  • Whitehaven Beach visit and Hill Inlet walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat journey approx. 8 hours (46 km)
Walking Distance: Short guided walks (2 km total)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar

Day 11: Mission Beach

Travel north along the iconic Bruce Highway through rolling sugarcane fields to the stunning Mission Beach, a serene coastal getaway in tropical North Queensland. Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun by the pool or strolling along the pristine Mission Beach shoreline. Keep an eye out for the rare and elusive cassowary, one of Australia’s unique native birds, often spotted in the surrounding rainforest. This peaceful paradise is perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature’s beauty.

Included Activities:

  • Bruce Highway coastal drive

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 505 km
Walking Distance: Short walks/lookouts
Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort or similar

Day 12: Cairns via Atherton Tablelands

After breakfast, journey into the Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland to discover a stunning plunge waterfall nestled in lush rainforest. Take a refreshing swim before visiting Lake Eacham, a beautiful volcanic crater lake with crystal-clear waters. Explore the ancient Curtain Fig Tree, then conclude your day in Cairns, a vibrant tropical city full of culture and energy.

Included Activities:

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 220 km
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 13: Great Barrier Reef

Experience one of Australia’s greatest highlights—the Great Barrier Reef. Board a luxury 20-metre motor catamaran for a full-day cruise to this world-renowned natural wonder. Snorkel vibrant coral gardens, explore marine life from a glass-bottom boat, and learn about reef conservation through expert commentary. For the adventurous, optional scuba diving is available to explore deeper underwater. After an unforgettable day at this UNESCO World Heritage site, join us for an optional dinner to share stories and memories.
Included Activities:

  • Great Barrier Reef cruise with snorkelling & glass bottom boat
  • Optional scuba diving

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat journey approx. 6.5 hours (30 km)
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 14: Cairns – Tour Ends

After breakfast, the tour ends in Cairns. Say goodbye to your guide and fellow travellers and continue on your own journey.

Meals: Breakfast

Room Amenities

NIGHT

CONFIGURATION

FACILITIES

INCLUDES

1-13

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Twin Share Room

Shared Ensuite Bathroom

Sleeps 2 people, solo travellers paired with another passenger, towel, linen, tv, air-conditioning

1-13

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Private Double / Twin / Single

Private Ensuite Bathroom

Towel & bed linen supplied, fridge, tv, lounge, air-conditioning, tea/coffee facilities

Route details

8:30AM – Quality Hotel Ambassador Hotel, 196 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, Western Australia

At Autopia Tours, we actively promote the protection of flora and fauna on our Western Australian Tours. It is our duty to ensure there is minimal disturbance to this World  Heritage Listed region and the species that call it home. Cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional owners should also be shown at all times.

Part of our responsibility is educating guests on minimal impact practices and the importance of ensuring the safety of wildlife and the environmental sustainability of the destinations we visit.

Learn more about EcoTourism: https://www.ecotourism.org.au/

Traditional Owners

Autopia Tours would like to begin by paying our respects to the traditional owners of this country, with specific acknowledgement to the Wurundjeri people. Please be conscious and respectful of the sensitivities of indigenous culture and the spiritual connection they have with the land at all times.

Wildlife Encounters

The natural behaviours of wildlife are to be respected and not interfered with. When viewing wildlife, people should take care to avoid rapid or sudden movements, which could frighten the animal, and should keep noise to a minimum and refrain from touching, petting or feeding all wildlife including birds. Contact with people can introduce diseases to wildlife and can cause them to become aggressive.

Wildlife should not be handled or fed, unless by certified wildlife handlers. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural foraging behaviour and can lead to disease or illness through contact with people and the introduction of foods that are harmful to their digestive system. Feeding wildlife can also cause them to become aggressive toward people.

Wildlife that appears to be in distress, injured or in danger should be reported immediately to the appropriate authority, such as your Guide/Tour Leader, a National Park Ranger or Visitor Centre Staff.

Protecting our National Parks

People should remain on designated walking tracks, behind safety barriers/fences and follow all directions given by the guide/tour leader. Venturing off these can alter fragile ecosystems and can harm wildlife shelters and native vegetation. There are other dangers to be aware of too, such as cliff edges, unstable rock formations, overhanging tree branches and slippery ground cover. Remaining on tracks ensures safe visitation for guests and the environment.

No flora or fauna should be removed from their natural setting. This includes dead wood, fallen leaves, flowers and so forth, as they form part of the ecosystem of the region and their removal could cause a disturbance.

Waste Management

All buses are fitted with waste bins. No organic waste should be disposed of onto the ground. Although organic, items such as banana peels, apple cores, bread and other food scraps, are not natural/native to the region and can introduce pest species, diseases or harm to wildlife if found and eaten. We recommend all passengers bring a water bottle with you on our Grampians Tour. Purchasing bottled water contributes large amounts of plastic into the landfill. Therefore, we ask guests to bring their own bottle, as there is access to water refill stations available on our vehicles. Please ensure you stay hydrated throughout the tour to reduce the risk of sun exposure and dehydration.

First Aid

All our guides carry a current Level 2 First Aid certificate. Please report any accident or illness to your tour guide. We recommend anyone with an existing medical condition to carry their medication with them on tour and to notify their tour guide at the beginning of the tour.

If you are a smoker! We ask you to refrain from smoking whilst in the company of other passengers and limit it to designated smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted on any of our vehicles, or in any type of accommodation including permanent campsites. We make frequent ‘comfort stops’ to allow free time for guests but cannot guaranteed smoke breaks. Please ensure you dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly and appropriately.

Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

Please notify us if you have any dietary requirements or medical conditions prior to departure, that way we can make any necessary arrangements.

What do we eat?

Our guests will enjoy a fresh, healthy picnic dinner with a glass of wine that is sourced from local produce. We are happy to accommodate any special dietary needs however we must be notified of this at the time of booking.

What is a suitable age for this tour?

Child policy for this tour is 6 years old and over, due to the nature of this tour it’s not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under.

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

We ask that guests travelling on day trips bring small day packs and hand luggage only as we have limited storage onboard our vehicles. Suitcases and large backpacks must be put in storage at your hotel or bus station lockers prior to boarding our vehicles.

How fit do I need to be for this tour?

A moderate level of fitness is required to complete the 1-2 hours of walking trails within the Pinnacles Desert.

How many people are on this tour?

We operate this tour with a maximum of 28 people; our vehicles are 28-seater Mitsubishi Rosa buses. This vehicle makes for a safe & comfortable journey (air-conditioned), with large passenger windows for unobstructed views. It is possible that the trip will be conducted in a larger vehicle on rare occasions, based on demand.

What happens if it rains, will the tour proceed?

In the event of rain or inclement weather, your travel experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider. This tour would only be cancelled in extreme weather conditions, whereby it’s not safe to travel into the Nambung National Park.

What is the temperature in Western Australia?

The weather in Western Australia can fluctuate and be extreme at times. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius during the day and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. Predominantly, the hottest months are Dec-Feb (summer) and the coolest months are Jun-Jul (winter).

Safe Travel Statement

For your safety, we have implemented comprehensive hygiene measures and increased regular sanitation. For more information click here.

Our Contract

All bookings are made with Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 94 143 929 962). By making a booking, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. Your booking is considered confirmed upon receipt of your booking confirmation and/or invoice.

These Terms & Conditions are valid from 1 August 2025 until 31 March 2027, though dates and itineraries remain subject to change at any time.

Accredited Bus Number: AC003612.

Booking Confirmations & Enquiries

All bookings must be confirmed within 72 hours of departure via email to [email protected]

Before You Book

Please ensure you:

  • Understand the style, itinerary and physical demands of your chosen tour.
  • Familiarise yourself with these Terms & Conditions and tour details.
  • Disclose any medical conditions, dietary requirements or special needs.

We are not responsible for passengers who fail to review this information prior to travel.

Traveller Responsibilities
  • Travellers are required to comply with all relevant government regulations (Federal, State and Territory).
  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing. In exceptional cases (e.g. serious medical issues, visa denials, or regulatory changes), requests may be considered with supporting documentation. Approval is not guaranteed.
  • To ensure the safety of all passengers, if you are feeling unwell during your tour, you must notify your guide immediately.
  • If you choose to leave a tour early or join after it has commenced, no refund will be provided and any additional costs incurred due to late arrival or early departure remain your responsibility.
Traveller Information

To confirm your booking, you must provide:

  • Full name and contact details.
  • Email address and dietary restrictions (if applicable).
  • Nationality, country of origin or Australian postcode.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions that may affect your travel.
  • For Comfort Style Tours including domestic flight, passport details (or government-issued photo ID for Australian citizens) are required. Failure to provide this may result in missed flights and additional costs.

Please see our Privacy Policy for information on how we manage your personal data.

Special Requirements

Please advise us at the time of booking or no later than 7 days before departure of any:

  • Medical conditions.
  • Dietary requirements / food allergies.
  • Mobility or accessibility needs.

We will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee all requests, especially in remote regions. We recommend bringing your own snacks for special dietary needs.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend all travellers obtain comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking.

Insurance should include cover for:

  • Medical emergencies and repatriation (recommended minimum AUD $300,000 or USD $200,000).
  • Personal accident, illness, loss of property and liability.
  • Tour cancellation, flight delays and force majeure disruption.

Travel insurance is mandatory for all Comfort Style Tours. Proof of cover will be requested before departure. If you do not provide adequate cover, you may be refused travel and cancellation fees will apply.

If relying on credit card insurance, please bring policy number, insurer’s name and emergency contact details.

Check Availability & Book Now!

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FAQ

Who is this trip for?

Small group travellers who like a relaxed pace with a mix of nature, culture and comfort.

What personal details are required when making a booking?

To complete your booking, you’ll need to supply the following: your full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, any food allergies, your title or gender for room arrangements, a contact phone number, and your passport information, as domestic flights will be arranged as part of your itinerary.

Is this trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes. Most activities are easy to moderate with optional walks for those who want more adventure. Travellers should be mobile enough to walk unaided.

Are meals and accommodation included in the price?

Yes. Boutique style accommodation and most meals are included, with dietary needs catered for on request.

What is the luggage allowance for the tour?

Due to limited storage on our vehicles and domestic flights, each guest is asked to bring no more than one travel bag weighing up to 23 kg and one small day bag up to 5 kg. If you plan to bring larger or additional luggage, please contact us in advance to request approval.

Do I need to bring any special gear?

Just comfy walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and a refillable water bottle.

Is there a minimum age requirement for children to join the tour?

Yes, children must be at least 12 years old to participate. Those aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian throughout the tour. Due to the tour’s activities and pace, it is not suitable for children aged 11 and under or for infants.

Can solo travellers join this tour?

Absolutely! Solo travellers are very welcome. If you book a Twin Share (SC14-B), you’ll be matched with another solo guest of the same gender to share a twin room with a shared ensuite. Prefer your own space? Private Single Rooms (SC14-P) are also available for an additional cost.

Is travel insurance required for this tour?

Yes, travellers must have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency repatriation. It’s strongly recommended to also include coverage for personal liability, cancellations, force majeure events and lost belongings. Proof of insurance and an emergency contact number must be provided before the tour begins. If using credit card insurance, please supply the insurer’s details, coverage level, and policy number.
While insurance isn’t mandatory for EU, Swiss, or US residents, it is highly recommended. Those without insurance must sign a waiver accepting full responsibility for any emergency costs.

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