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Brisbane to Cairns Adventure

4.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Adventure Small Group
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 Trip Length
8 Days
 Trip Starts
Brisbane
 Trip Finishes
Cairns
8 Day Brisbane to Cairns Adventure Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: Australia
Trip Style
Comfort
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
PVOB

Overview

Read 2 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 8 Day Brisbane to Cairns Adventure. Explore Australia’s sun-kissed east coast from Queensland's capital of Brisbane to the tropical hub of Cairns on an epic trip that offers one coastal paradise after another. Take an off-road adventure across the undulating dunes of Fraser Island (K'gari), sail through dazzling waters to discover the impossibly white beaches of the Whitsundays, flop and drop on the palm-fringed sands of laidback Mission Beach, soak up the energy and nightlife of Airlie Beach after sunset...read more and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Get wet and wild in waterfalls and rainforests and salty and sandy on islands and beaches, then retreat to your four-star accommodation for a refreshingly hot shower – Queensland is calling!

Itinerary

Your east coast adventure kicks off at 10am in Queensland’s capital of Brisbane (Meeanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located). Your first stop is laid-back Noosa (have your bathing suit ready!), and nearby Noosa National Park where you will have the chance to spot koalas in the wild and other native Australian fauna in its natural habitat. Then head to Rainbow Beach, our overnight location for the next two nights. Explore Rainbow Beach's massive Carlo Sandblow. Take a path through eucalypt stands and rainforest to reach this huge accumulation of windblown sand known as the Cooloola sandmass. As you cross the sandblow, marvel at this ever-changing landscape, transformed by wind. From the top you'll enjoy stunning 180-degree views over Rainbow Beach and K'gari. This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland's southern coast and tomorrow you’ll head out to explore it in depth, so get a good night’s rest ready for a day of adventure.

After breakfast, head over to stunning K'gari by ferry. In 2023 the island returned to it's traditional name after being referred to as Fraser Island for many years. The original Butchulla people’s name for the island means 'paradise' and you’ll find out why soon enough. The name change is a major milestone in a long running campaign by the Butchulla people. Set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of K'gari. Start off with an adventurous drive along the 75 Mile Beach Road – one of the best coastal drives in the country. Take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) – an island icon. The lake is world famous for its turquoise colours and fine dazzling white 92% pure silica sands. Next up is Wanggoolba Creek, a pristine rainforest with prehistoric ferns and a luxuriant canopy of palms and vines. Take another dip, this time in the fresh waters of Eli Creek. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters – witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach, in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo. This evening return by ferry back to Rainbow Beach. (B/L)

This morning transfer back to Brisbane Airport before boarding a flight to Proserpine, then transfer to Airlie Beach, the hub town of the magnificent Whitsundays and home to endless beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. You’ll arrive late in the afternoon, so after settling into your lodgings the evening is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll around and explore, or if the sun is still up why not visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you might feel more at home finding a seat at one of the many bars, grabbing a cocktail or two, and watching the sun set on the shimmering blue water. (B)

Today is entirely free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. Words can’t do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world – Whitehaven is about as impressive as a beach can get, and at 98% pure silica, it’s about as white as a beach can get too. Peel your eyes away from the pristine sands and explore the colourful underwater world surrounding the Whitsundays on a snorkelling adventure. Get up close to a beautiful array of rainbow coral, playful fish and, if you’re lucky, maybe even some friendly turtles. Spend another night in this lively town. (B)

Admire the change of scenery on today's long drive as you jump into your private vehicle and head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach, where World Heritage rainforest meets the colourful Coral Sea. Be welcomed by crystal-clear waters, stunning views and a large population of cassowaries – a flightless bird that thrives in the tropical forests of north-eastern Australia. This afternoon you can enjoy plenty of free time to soak up paradise and do as you please. You might like to wind down with an optional yoga class or go for a swim in the pool. Alternatively, head out in search of the famous cassowary or simply grab a book and find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the tropical bliss. (B)

The breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef is on the bucket list of many travellers who venture to this incredible corner of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is brimming with colourful coral and an amazing array of tropical fish, and today you’ll get to witness its magnificence with your own eyes on a snorkelling adventure through this underwater paradise. Cruise out to this famous reef this morning as you hear a marine conservation commentary about the importance of preserving the World Heritage-listed region and how you can do your bit. Then, it’s time to put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the dazzling waters, where you can freely explore a wonderfully rich ecosystem. After an incredible day, head back to the hotel, where you can freshen up and get ready for dinner. Compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions. (B/L)

Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before venturing into the wet tropics of far north Queensland. Stop off en route to your next destination and discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest. Take a dip in the cool water, then continue on to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful blue-green hues in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. Next, visit the unusual yet fascinating Curtain Fig Tree, a magnificent tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 metres to the forest floor, forming a curtain-like appearance. The day draws to a close as you head to your next stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns. (B/D)

Your east coast experience comes to an end after breakfast. With so much to do in this bustling hub, enquire about booking some extra nights in Cairns for further exploration of this tropical paradise. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Take an incredible 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). Venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo!
  • You have a full free day in Airlie Beach, so perhaps choose to cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-famous Whitehaven beach. Surround yourself with dazzling white sands and azure waters as you discover this idyllic corner of Queensland.
  • Enjoy a free afternoon in the tropical bliss of Mission Beach. Soak up the salty sea breeze and laze on the palm-fringed sands, stretch your limbs with a yoga class or go for a dip in the pool – it’s a hard life!
  • Venture into the wilderness of the Atherton Tablelands – take a dip in a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest and admire the beautiful blue-green hues of Lake Eacham.
  • Witness the magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef on a bucket-list-ticking snorkelling adventure. Brimming with colourful coral and tropical fish, enjoy an included cruise from Cairns to explore this underwater paradise.

  • Resort (4 nights)
  • Hotel (3 nights)

  • 7 Breakfasts included
  • 2 Lunches included
  • 1 Dinners included

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

Trip Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Brisbane to Cairns Adventure' Reviews

4.0
AVG. RATING 4.0 / 5
2 Reviews
5 Star
4 Star
100%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Most enjoyable trip. 0 , NSW, Australia, Aug 2022
Our trip to North Qld made us aware of what a wonderful country we live in. The Atherton Tablelands were a highlight with miles of sugarcane, pineapple, avocado, mango trees and so much more. Max was a terrific guide and took us to some incredibly delicious restaurants, especially the The Red plate, a Korean restaurant in Airlie beach, best spicy pork ...read more ribs I have ever had. Our only gripe would be that we had to spend a day going back to Brisbane from Fraser Island to catch a flight. I think the tour could be redesigned to work it so a plane could go from Harvey Beach to Airlie instead.
8 Day Brisbane to Cairns Northbound   0 , SA, Australia, Jun 2021
The trip was fantastic! The main events of each stop being Fraser Island, the Whitsundays and the great barrier reef were all wonderful. The tour operators for each of these day trips were of a very high standard. Our two tour guides Monte and Conrad were amazing kind thoughtful guys. They organised and joined us for many memorable meals. My only criticism ...read more is that they didn't give us any commentary on the places we were travelling through. I always enjoy hearing all the interesting information about the places we were travelling through but this didn't happen.

Brochure

Australia & New Zealand

Intrepid Australia & New Zealand (2022-24)

Explore Intrepid's Australia and New Zealand brochure, your gateway to antipodean adventures. From Australia's rugged outback and iconic coasts to New Zealand's majestic landscapes and Maori traditions, our curated journeys promise authentic experiences in these spellbinding lands. Delve into the heart of Oceania with Intrepid's expertly crafted it...moreineraries.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Intrepid. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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