7 Day Brisbane to Cairns Tour

The 7 Day Brisbane to Cairns with Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Comfort Tour is more than a holiday – it’s an invitation to see Queensland’s most famous landscapes with ease, style and authenticity. Over 7 days, you’ll follow Australia’s eastern coastline, from Brisbane to tropical towns, rainforest hideaways and coral seas, finishing in Cairns, the adventure capital of the Great Barrier Reef.

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DEPARTS
5:00 pm
RETURNS
10:00 am
Days
7
PRICE from
$4175 AUD
$3549 AUD

Operates

SAT

Touring Route

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

Highlights

  • Twilight Welcome in Brisbane – Kick off your adventure in Queensland’s laid-back capital with a guided city orientation and welcome dinner.

  • Flight to the Whitsundays – Travel north to tropical Airlie Beach, with free time to soak up its coastal charm.

  • Whitsunday Islands Cruise – Spend a full day sailing the stunning Whitsundays, visiting Whitehaven Beach, snorkelling coral reefs, and enjoying scenic island walks.

  • Unwind in Mission Beach – Slow down in this serene coastal town where rainforest meets the sea — perfect for a stroll or quiet reflection.

  • Discover the Atherton Tablelands – Explore waterfalls, crater lakes, and ancient rainforest, with chances to spot unique Aussie wildlife.

  • Great Barrier Reef Experience – Cruise to the reef for guided snorkelling or relax aboard a glass-bottom boat to view vibrant marine life.

  • Boutique Accommodation & Easy Pace – Enjoy hand-picked stays in boutique lodgings, a relaxed travel pace, and shared moments with like-minded travellers.

Trip Inclusions

  • 6 Nights’ Private or Shared Boutique Style Hotels/Resorts – all rooms with ensuite

  • Includes: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches

  • All National Park entry fees included

  • First Nations cultural experience

  • Guided rainforest, beach & lookout walks

  • Atherton Tablelands guided tour with wildlife spotting

  • Whitsunday Island & Whitehaven beach day trip & snorkel

  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise – incl. snorkelling gear & glass bottom boat

  • Hosted by an experienced driver-guide, with local tour commentary

  • All transport (private small-group vehicle, domestic flight BNE>PPP & boat trips)

  • Brisbane meeting point / Cairns drop-off point

What to Bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Your sense of adventure
  • Waterproof rain jacket or windbreaker
  • Water bottle
  • Comfortable hiking shoes (closed-toe)
  • Swimmers and beach towel
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Hat and sunscreen
  • Torch or headlight
  • Snacks for the bus in your day bag
  • Reusable facemasks
  • Money for snacks and meals

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Brisbane

Welcome to Brisbane, a city that’s sun-kissed and laid back with a hint of urban cool — and soon to be an Olympic city. Meet your fellow travellers and guide in the hotel reception at 5 pm for a welcome meeting. We’ll then head out on a guided city orientation, finishing with a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:

  • Welcome meeting and orientation walk
  • Optional group dinner

Meals: None
Driving Distance: None
Walking Distance: Easy, short walk
Accommodation: The Point Hotel Brisbane or similar

Day 2: Brisbane → Airlie Beach

After breakfast, we fly north to the Whitsunday Coast. On arrival, settle into Airlie Beach, a bustling coastal town with a palm-fringed lagoon and tropical charm. The afternoon is yours — wander through boutique shops, have a drink at a beachfront bar or cool off at a local swimming hole.
Included Activities:

  • Domestic flight to the Whitsundays
  • Free time to explore Airlie Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 40 km
Flight: Brisbane to Proserpine – approx. 1 hr 50 min (990 km)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar

Day 3: Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Islands

Today is all about blue water and white sand. Board a full-day cruise through the Whitsundays, stopping at world-famous Whitehaven Beach and walking to Hill Inlet for stunning views. Swim or snorkel among coral gardens and tropical fish — you may even spot a sea turtle. Back in Airlie Beach in the evening for free time to eat out.
Included Activities:

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

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

Day 4: Mission Beach

We leave the islands behind and head into the rainforest today as we drive north along the Bruce Highway to Mission Beach. This chill coastal town is the perfect place to slow down — relax by the pool, take a beach walk or keep an eye out for wallabies and cassowaries roaming around.
Included Activities:

  • Scenic drive along the Bruce Highway

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 505 km (longest travel day)
Walking Distance: Short, easy walks and lookout points
Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort or similar

Day 5: Cairns via the Atherton Tablelands

Today, we head into the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics to explore the Atherton Tablelands. Swim beneath a plunging rainforest waterfall, visit crystal-clear Lake Eacham and see the amazing Curtain Fig Tree. End the day in Cairns, a vibrant tropical city with a waterfront esplanade and great dining.
Included Activities:

  • Atherton Tablelands tour with waterfall swim, crater lake and rainforest walks

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 220 km
Walking Distance: Easy short walks and scenic lookouts
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 6: Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling

A must-do day! Board a catamaran for a full-day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel over colourful coral reefs, glass-bottom boat ride and learn from onboard conservation commentary. Keep your camera ready for tropical fish, sea turtles and endless shades of blue. An optional scuba dive is available for those who want to get up close and personal.
Included Activities:

  • Great Barrier Reef day cruise with snorkelling, glass-bottom boat and buffet lunch
  • Optional scuba diving experience

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat travel – approx. 8.5 hours (30 km)
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 7: Cairns

Your adventure ends after breakfast. Say goodbye to your new friends and continue on your way – or stay on and explore more of tropical north Queensland.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Autopia Tours (Via Travel) reserves the right to change the itinerary due to seasonal conditions or park closures.

Room amenities

NIGHT

CONFIGURATION

FACILITIES

INCLUDES

1-6

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Twin Share Room

Shared Ensuite Bathroom

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

1-6

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Private Double / Twin / Single

Private Ensuite Bathroom

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

Download Pre-Departure Trip Notes

Download our Pre-Departure Trip Notes for essential travel information, packing tips, meeting details, accommodation information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Route details

17:00PM – The Point Brisbane – Hotel, 21 Lambert St, Brisbane, Queensland

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.

 
What are the sleeping arrangements?

  • Bush Single Swag (sleeps 1) – This Basic Single Swag fare price is (Per Person) for Adults or Children. For guests who wish to sleep under the stars on the ground, in a self-contained canvas-covered bush bed roll with a camp mattress.
  • Twin Share Eco Tent (sleeps 2) – This Safari Tent fare price is (Per Person) for Adults or Children. For guests wishing to sleep in the outback but remain protected from the elements, we provide permanent tented campsites, twin single beds with mattresses, fitted & top sheet supplied. Sleeping bags are available should you get cold. (Solo travellers booking separately in a Twin Share Safari Tent will be paired with another solo passenger, where possible of the same gender but not guaranteed. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times no matter the sleep arrangements.)

Our permanent tented campsites have access to communal campground showers and toilets. These sites generally have limited solar power or are unpowered. Therefore, guests are asked to bring rechargeable power banks (limited power access to charge phones or cameras).

What is a suitable age for this tour?

Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.

Can I get a pick-up from Alice Springs on the day of the tour? 

Given our tour departs early from Alice Springs (between 6:00-6:30am), guests must arrive the day prior to the tour and stay 1-night. Once your Alice Springs accommodation is booked, please let us know and we can arrange a pickup on the day of the tour. We do not provide airport-to-accommodation transfer services pre/post tours.

What flight should I book if I want to join the tour in Ayers Rock? 

Prior to booking one of our extended tours, it is the responsibility of the agent and guest to ensure they have purchased the correct flight. We provide complimentary pickups on day at Ayers Rock Airport [AYQ] – Coote Rd Yulara NT or Yulara Resort Accommodation between 13:00pm and 13:55pm. Guests arriving on flights into AYQ Airport, earlier than pick-up time should make their way to Ayers Rock Campground using free airport hotel transfers to join the group later. 

*Important Note for Travellers Returning to Ayers Rock/Yulara

For guests who wish to return to Ayers Rock / Yulara instead of Alice Springs, we can arrange a shuttle transfer from Kings Canyon back to Yulara, arriving at approximately 4:30–5:00 pm. This must be clearly advised at the time of booking, as shuttle availability is limited and requires advance arrangements.

How fit do I need to be for this tour?

A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The length of walks will be between 2km to 6km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9-11km walk is included in this tour. Embarking on walks will be at the guide’s discretion to ensure the safety of guests. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and a doctor’s certificate is required for people over 75 years (30 days prior to travel).

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

We ask that guests travelling on short breaks/extended tours bring small soft overnight bags and hand luggage only as we have limited storage onboard our vehicles. Large suitcases and oversized luggage can be left at your hotel whilst you are on tour. This tour is not suitable for anyone who requires the use of a mobility aid, wheelchair, walker, and or stroller.

Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

Yes, please notify us if you have any dietary requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking, or at least a few days prior to departure, that way we can make any necessary arrangements.

What type of food do we eat on tour?

Most of the meals are prepared by our tour guides with basic camping-style food options and on occasions, they will be provided by our accommodation providers onsite. Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean-up, and vehicle unpacking/loading as it’s a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers.

Am I allowed to take photos at Uluru?

Photography is generally permitted in many areas of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. However, certain locations are considered sacred by the Anangu people, the traditional custodians of the land, where photography is strictly prohibited out of respect for their culture and beliefs.

Why are photos restricted in some parts of Uluru?

Some areas of Uluru hold deep spiritual significance for the Anangu people. Taking photos in these sacred sites is considered disrespectful and contrary to their cultural protocols. Visitors are asked to honor these traditions to help preserve the cultural integrity of the park.

How do I know where photography is not allowed?

Restricted areas are clearly marked with signs indicating no photography zones. Our guides will also inform and advise you on where photography is permitted to ensure respect for cultural sensitivities.

What happens if someone takes photos in a prohibited area?

Taking photos in restricted areas is against park regulations and cultural protocols. Guides and park rangers may ask visitors to delete images taken in these sacred locations to maintain respect for Anangu culture. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Can I take photos of wildlife and landscapes?

Yes! Photos of the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and many other areas within the park are welcome and encouraged. These help capture the natural beauty of Uluru while respecting cultural boundaries.

Why is it important to respect these photography restrictions?

Respecting photography restrictions is a way to honor and protect the traditions and spiritual beliefs of the Anangu people. It ensures the continued preservation of their cultural heritage for future generations.

Are there traditional stories or meanings behind Uluru?

Yes. Uluru is a deeply sacred site for the Anangu people, the Traditional Owners of the land. It features prominently in Tjukurpa (pronounced chook-orr-pa), the Anangu system of law, culture, and spirituality. Tjukurpa includes creation stories about how ancestral beings shaped the land and continues to guide Anangu life today.

Many of these stories are considered sacred and gender-specific—meaning only Anangu men or women may know, tell, or interpret certain parts of the Tjukurpa. Uluru itself contains several sacred men’s sites, and because of this, some stories are not shared with women, and vice versa.

Our guides respect these cultural boundaries and will only share stories that are permitted for public or cross-gender sharing, and approved for tourism purposes. This ensures that Anangu knowledge is preserved and passed on according to traditional law.

We encourage all visitors to approach Uluru with an open mind and respectful curiosity, understanding that some knowledge is not for public sharing—and that’s part of what makes this place so spiritually significant.

Are National Park fees included in the tour cost?

Autopia Tours includes Parks Australia fees within the tour price, this covers our guests for a 3-Day Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Park Passes are not available for purchase by guests not traveling onboard our tours.

What kind of vehicle do we travel in for this Uluru Camping Tours?

We have a couple of all-terrain 4×4 range eco-tour bus, uniquely designed to handle the harshest of terrains and off-road tracks. The maximum number of passengers we carry on these tours is 15-21 people, with a minimum requirement of 8 people to guarantee the departure. Fleet specs: Isuzu N Series NPS300 Trucks (15, 17, 21-seater). In the unlikely event of a breakdown, alternative vehicles may be used.

Is it safe to camp in Australia’s outback? (Acceptance of Risk)

Australia is home to many dangerous creatures, extreme weather conditions, and varied terrain. Experiencing these dangers while camping, hiking, or passing time outside may increase your personal risk. Safety is our number one priority, and our guides are highly trained to ensure passenger safety at all times. Autopia Tours cannot accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or accident caused by passengers onboard Autopia Tours. In the Northern Territory, children must be at least 6 years old for day trips and 8 years old for overnight tours. Children under the age of 18 must always be accompanied by an adult, legal guardian, or caregiver. Despite all care being taken, the responsibility for children on tour lies entirely with their parents or caregivers. Passengers, including children, must wear shoes, sunscreen, and hats at all times.

Do I require travel insurance for the Central Australian outback?

It is highly recommended that all passengers have personal travel insurance, given we’re exploring remote parts of the Northern Territory with limited access to health professionals in the event of sickness or injury.  Autopia Tours is not authorised to provide information on the type of plan or policy options available. This can be provided by an accredited local travel agent or from your preferred insurance company.

What is the temperature like in the Northern Territory?

The weather in the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are traveling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.

What is your Vaccination Policy? 

In accordance with current Government regulations, it is no longer a requirement to be double vaccinated, although we do highly recommend it.

Our COVID Statement

For your safety, we have implemented comprehensive hygiene measures and increased regular sanitation. Temperature checks of all staff will be conducted pre-departure, with disposable face masks and hand-sanitizer provided. 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

How can I tell if the advice in this guide is trustworthy?

This guide is written by a seasoned Australian travel expert with decades of first-hand experience, backed by verifiable sources and up-to-date local knowledge.

Do I need to visit the official park or tourism websites as well?

Yes. While this article gives practical, insider information, official sites provide the latest updates on road closures, permits, and weather alerts.

Do paid promotions here influence the information?

No. All recommendations are based on personal experience and local expertise, not paid sponsorships or affiliate arrangements.

How often is the information in this article updated?

Content is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect seasonal changes, access conditions, and any changes to regulations or local services.

Can I use this guide as my only trip-planning resource?

It’s a strong starting point, but for a well-rounded plan, you should combine it with maps, local advice, and official park notices.

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