Sydney to Cairns Adventure
See the highlights of the Aussie East Coast
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Group Size: Max 20
Trip code: OASC
Duration: 16 days
Travel Sydney to Cairns on this 16-day tour with a ready-made group of mates for lifelong memories. Explore famous landmarks, including Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, take a surf lesson in Byron Bay, tackle the sand dunes in K’gari and sail the breathtaking Whitsundays. Finish up in Cairns with some optional skydiving or bungee jumping to get your heart racing. Party as the sun goes down, always with a spectacular sunset, as Aussie nightlife is one of a kind.
Trip Highlights
- See the sights in Sydney
- Learn to surf in scenic Spot X Surf Camp
- Adventure around K’gari
- Meet koalas in Brisbane Bushlands and kangaroos in Arrawarra
- Sail around the Whitsunday Islands
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Day 1: Sydney. Say G’Day to Australia! Arrive in iconic Sydney at any time as there are no planned activities on the first day so you can take your time settling into the hostel, meeting your group and exploring the city. Break the ice with some drinks in the hostel bar and try out Sydney’s buzzing nightlife.
Day 2: Sydney. You will have plenty of time to see the best of Sydney with a free day after a brief orientation walk with your group leader. Marvel at the stunning city, wander the cobbled lanes and make sure you see the top landmarks, including Sydney Opera House, sandy Bondi Beach and the Harbour Bridge.
Day 3: Sydney to Arrawarra. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Coffs Harbour, where we will then continue to travel north to Spot X Surf Camp. Here, we’ll spend the next few days chilling on this beachfront location.
Day 4: Arrawarra. Early risers will want to watch the stunning sunrise across the beach before you tackle the waves with an epic surf lesson. Soak up the sun and dry off, ready for a coastal bushland walk spotting adorable kangaroos. Enjoy the breathtaking views and kick back in the afternoon with some free time.
Day 5: Arrawarra to Byron Bay. It’s time for an unbelievable drive up to Byron Bay, filled with coastal views, luscious hills and national parks. An essential stop is the most eastern point in the country, Cape Byron Lighthouse, where you may be able to spot dolphins riding the waves and even whales. After lunch, we’ll continue to Byron Bay and begin exploring the famed surfers town.
Day 6: Byron Bay. This artsy beach town is a must visit for all those travelling the East Coast! Spend hours in the water on secluded beaches, test your balance with some stand-up paddle boarding and conquer the waves surfing. For thrill seekers, there’ll be a chance for a bit of skydiving and sea kayaking.
Day 7: Byron Bay to Brisbane. On our way to Brisbane, we’ll stop for a tranquil nature walk and try to catch a glimpse of cute Koalas in the Brisbane Koala Bushlands. You’ll want to have your cameras ready at all times! Get ready to explore the capital of Queensland and have some drinks as you test out the bustling nightlife.
Day 8: K’Gari. We will make our way to K’Gari today with a welcome from the Butchulla people. Explore K’Gari to the fullest, visiting the stunning Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie). This evening, gaze at the stars whilst sitting by the campfire.
Day 9: K’Gari to Noosa. This morning, you will experience another side of K’Gari; climb the sand dunes, view the Maheno shipwreck and visit Eli Creek, for a freshwater dip. This evening, we will be leaving one paradise and entering another. Hello Noosa!
Day 10: Noosa. Get your hiking boots on, as we hike between the Noosa Headlands and Hell’s Gate in Noosa National Park. With your camera rolls stocked up, enjoy some free time in this beautiful beachtown.
Day 11: Noosa to Airlie Beach. The morning is yours to chill and enjoy Noosa. This evening we’ll board a comfortable overnight train to Airlie Beach.
Day 12: Airlie Beach. Wake up and explore the local wonders of Airlie Beach. Spend your day lounging on the beach. Enjoy some local beach bars as the night comes rolling in or treat yourself to a dinner and early night.
Day 13: Whitsunday Islands to Airlie Beach. Hop aboard our boat today and glide through paradise in the Whitsunday Islands. Sunbathe on the deck and dip in the turquoise waters, you’ll want your snorkel as the marine life is spectacular. As the day winds down, we’ll head back to Airlie Beach where you can kick back by the pool.
Day 14: Airlie Beach to Cairns. Stock up on all your favourite snacks and refreshments as we take an early train ride to Cairns - also known as The Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!
Day 15: Cairns. Why not leap out of your comfort zone with some skydiving or bungee jumping? You can even try some awesome white water rafting or snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is known for its adrenaline-pumping activities and great place to tick off some epic bucket list items. End the day with a fun-filled night out with your group to celebrate the lifelong memories made.
Day 16: Cairns. Our time together has sadly come to an end. Chat to your group leader with return airport transfer, or for further travels around Aus. We are sure to see you again soon!
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Online booking is unavailable for this trip
Online booking isn't currently available but if you'd like to enquire please use the form below. Alternatively if you'd like to discuss alternate trips or if you have any other questions please don't hesitate to contact us.You may arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned on the first day. You can depart at any time on day 16, when your trip ends, from Cairns Airport. You can extend your stay in Australia and your trip leader can help you with this or any onwards travel arrangements.
Accommodation
15 nights of accommodation are included in this trip. All rooms will be single-sex of 4-8 people, multi-share, with 13 nights in hostels, 1 on an overnight train and 1 on a maxi yacht. Please note that all accommodation is subject to change.
Meals
This tour includes 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners. The rest of the meals you will need to purchase yourself, which is a perfect opportunity to explore local communities, markets and restaurants.
You must be a minimum age of 18 years for this trip. This trip is designed for 18-39 year olds.
All visitors to Australia (excluding those from New Zealand) require a visa or e-visa/ ETA. You must apply for these prior to departure. You will need a Working Holiday Visa if you are wanting to work in Australia. However, an ETA is suitable if you are only visiting for fun. You can apply for both visas online. You can contact your travel advisor for more information.
It is important to note that all visa rules and regulations are subject to change. You should always check relevant embassy websites for up-to-date information.
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