Australia: Beaches & Reefs | 2024 - 2025
Australia: Beaches & Reefs | 2024 - 2025
Australia: Beaches & Reefs | 2024 - 2025
16 Days Starting in Sydney and ending in Cairns
Visiting: Warrane, Cavvanbah Street, Noosa Everglades, K’Gari (Fraser Island), Airlie Beach, Townsville, Yunbenun (Magnetic Island), Gimuy (Cairns)
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BRCHH24
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 30
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Beach Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Photography, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia's most stunning coastal and natural wonders with the "Beaches & Reefs | 2024 - 2025" tour. Starting in Sydney, you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Bondi Beach, before heading to the hippie haven of Byron Bay for a surf lesson. Discover the serene Noosa Everglades and the breathtaking K'gari (Fraser Island), then snorkel in the pristine waters of the Whitsundays. Experience the unique wildlife and scenic beauty of Magnetic Island, and delve into the ancient Daintree Rainforest in Cairns. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Warrane (Sydney)
Location: Warrane
Accommodation Name: Wake Up (or similar)
Welcome to Sydney! Meet up with your brand new travel family and hit the road and head on a day trip to one of Australia's finest: the majestic Blue Mountains (which aren't actually blue, but are still beautiful all the same). Out here in the great Aussie Outdoors we'll be learning about the legends behind the famous Three Sisters rock formation as well as exploring the Jamison Ridge area. We'll head back to the city and the evening is yours to make the most of.
Day 2: Warrane (Sydney)
Location: Warrane
Accommodation Name: Wake Up (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning set out to explore this sun-drenched, cosmopolitan and eternally cool city. Your Trip Manager will give you the low down on all of the best bits as you get a tour of the highlights. Check out the Opera House, catch the ferry to Watsons Bay to experience the iconic skyline from a different perspective, then venture over to Bondi Beach where you can spend the afternoon lazing about in the sunshine. If you've got a head for heights, an optional Harbour Bridge climb is the best way to see that iconic Harbour.
Day 3: Warrane (Sydney)
Location: Warrane
Accommodation Name: Wake Up (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With a full free day to choose your own adventure, we have some fab Free Time Add-Ons for you to pick from. Water-lovers can opt for a jetboat across the Harbour or those who prefer the land, can jump on a bike for a tour of the city's best bits.
Day 4: Warrane (Sydney) To Cavvanbah (Byron Bay)
Location: Warrane, Cavvanbah Street
Accommodation Name: Wake Up (or similar)
With satisfaction levels at a high this morning we jump on a plane to Byron Bay where all your hippie dreams can come to life.Landing in Byron Bay, we'll drop off our bags at the accommodation and start as we mean to go on, heading straight to the beach. Here we'll unleash our secret talent for surfing with an included lesson. You'll be a pro in no time!
Day 5: Cavvanbah (Byron Bay)
Location: Cavvanbah Street
Accommodation Name: Wake Up (or similar)
We'll continue the surf vibes today with the option to kickstart our morning with sunrise at Australia's most easterly point. Then you have the rest of the day free to explore like a local. With the afternoon stretched out ahead of you, there's kayaking, relaxing on the beach and whale watching (seasonal) all on offer - your time here will be nothing short of magic.
Day 6: Cavvanbah (Byron Bay) To Noosa Everglades
Location: Cavvanbah Street, Noosa Everglades
Accommodation Name: Kangarooms Noosa Everglades (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's time to wave goodbye to Byron Bay and head up the coast to Noosa Everglades. But first, why not opt for early morning yoga on the beach as you watch the golden sun stretch over the famous bay?Relaxed from our morning on the beach, we'll head to our next destination, the Noosa Everglades. Here we'll unpack at our Special Stay Eco Lodge home for the next two nights and relax with a group dinner in the bistro & bar area, surrounded by the chatter and rustling of local birds and kangaroos.
Day 7: Noosa Everglades (Including K'gari)
Location: Noosa Everglades, K’Gari (Fraser Island), Noosa Everglades
Accommodation Name: Kangarooms Noosa Everglades (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wake up to the sound of birds chirping at our Eco Camp this morning (you might even spot a kangaroo) and grab a quick brekkie before heading out for a day on K'Gari.Your spirits will be at an all-time high after this day full of sand dunes, scenic lakes and dense rainforests. We'll cruise along the world's longest sand highway before you appease your hunger with a tasty lunch.It's back to the Eco Camp this evening for our final night here. You have free time to tuck into some food at the bistro, sample the offerings at the CootharaBAR boutique brewery, or just relax and enjoy the lush surroundings of this beautiful protected National Park.
Day 8: Noosa Everglades To Airlie Beach
Location: Noosa Everglades, Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: Nomads Airlie Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
What better way to say goodbye to The Glades than with an optional Canoeing Excursion on one of only two Everglades in the world? Afterwards we're on our way to find coastal nirvana at the pristine beaches of the Whitsundays. We'll hop on a plane for a flight to Airlie Beach.Landing in Airlie Beach, you'll notice everything starting to look a bit more tropical. Hello Whitsundays! This afternoon is yours for the taking. Head out and enjoy the endless cafes, bars and ocean vistas this backpacker hub has to offer.
Day 9: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: Nomads Airlie Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Lunch
Is there anywhere in the world more beautiful than the Whitsundays? We think not. With 74 perfect islands at your fingertips, an open sea calling your name, today you'll get to explore one of the worlds most lusted-after holiday destinations with a day trip to the spotless Whitehaven Beach, including snorkelling. This is as close to heaven as you can find on planet earth.
Day 10: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: Nomads Airlie Beach (or similar)
We've got a free day in Airlie Beach today! This vibrant hub of the Whitsundays is ours to explore. We could get out onto the waters with an optional sea kayaking adventure, take to the sky with a Skydive over Australia's most beautiful drop zone or even a relaxing scenic flight over the Whitsunday islands including Whitehaven Beach and Heart Reef. For those looking for a more relaxed option, kick back on the beach sipping something sweet or explore the cute boutiques, bistros and alfresco restaurants that adorn the seafront. It's a hard life.
Day 11: Airlie Beach To Yunbenun (Magnetic Island) Via Townsville
Location: Airlie Beach, Townsville, Yunbenun (Magnetic Island)
Accommodation Name: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Is there anything better than the Whitsundays? We think our next destination definitely comes close! We'll board a coach this morning heading for Townsville.Here we'll board the ferry to our next destination.Magnetic Island is an apt name for this captivating isle, with its coastal walking trails and gum trees teeming with lazy koala bears. We'll have plenty of time to explore, partake in watersports in the bright turqouise waters or meet some of the local marsupials. But this evening, we'll enjoy some champagne and watch the sun set over the bay.
Day 12: Yunbenun (Magnetic Island)
Location: Yunbenun (Magnetic Island)
Accommodation Name: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We have a whole day on this paradise island - lucky us! Check out some of the walking trails - such as the Forts Walk which offers up stunning views of the Palm Island Group as well as WWII fortifications, and the chance to see koalas in the wild - or enjoy some free time at Horseshoe bay, taking a dip on the azure waters and relaxing on the beach. See Magnetic Island's resident Rock Wallabies at dusk before a free evening, where we can watch the sunset and check out some of the local bars.
Day 13: Yunbenun (Magnetic Island) To Gimuy (Cairns) Via Townsville
Location: Yunbenun (Magnetic Island), Townsville, Gimuy (Cairns)
Accommodation Name: Gilligans (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast this morning we'll say farewell to our koala friends and depart Magnetic Island on a ferry. But we'll never forget its singular beauty.Back in Townsville we won't hang around too long, as we're hopping on a train headed to Cairns, where we'll arrive late afternoon after a gloriously scenic journey along Australia's East Coast.Welcome to the city where rainforests meet reefs. We'll enjoy one of the most memorable meals you've ever experienced today with our interactive Bush Food MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® tutorial and dinner. An experienced chef will guide us through a history of Bush Food as you sample a variety of native spices and fruits, explaining their tastes, origins, and traditional uses before we enjoy our dinner, which features native game. It's an incredible cultural feast, and the perfect way to start our adventure in Cairns.
Day 14: Gimuy (Cairns)
Location: Gimuy (Cairns)
Accommodation Name: Gilligans (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Rise and shine, our entire day today is an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience, packed with history, heritage and natural beauty, as we enjoy a spectacular a day trip to the oldest tropical rainforest in the world: Daintree. With its ancient ferns and vibrant canopies, this place will take our breath away. There's a reason David Attenborough called it 'the most extraordinary place on earth.' As well as admiring the lush rainforest, we'll also meet the local Kuku Yalanji people and learn about their rich Aboriginal culture and history. We'll get the chance to view a smoking ceremony and take an art class with an Aboriginal artist. We'll also learn about ancient Dreamtime stories, local history and how these are shared through art. Then, we'll get to create our own unique souvenir to take home in the form of a canvas that tells our own stories. What a day; and we're not done yet.
Day 15: Gimuy (Cairns)
Location: Gimuy (Cairns)
Accommodation Name: Gilligans (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you'll have the option to board a catamaran out to the reef to snorkel or dive in the crystal waters and gaze at the colourful coral and even more vibrant marine life. Back on board, the expert marine crew will tell us all there is to know about this stunning, but vulnerable, natural miracle.
Day 16: End Gimuy (Cairns)
Location: Gimuy (Cairns)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our adventure ends this afternoon, but not before we have a chance to escape our comfort zones and try some of the adventurous activities that Cairns is famous for. Anyone for bungy jumping?
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation at various locations including Wake Up, Habitat Noosa, Nomads Airlie Beach, Nomads Magnetic Island, and Gilligans.
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Surf Lesson in Byron Bay
Enjoy an afternoon surf lesson in Byron Bay.
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Day Trip to Whitehaven Beach
Experience a day trip to Whitehaven Beach, including snorkeling.
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Tour of Daintree Rainforest
Tour the world’s oldest rainforest and learn about ancient 'Dreamtime' stories.
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Interactive Bush Food Tutorial and Dinner
Enjoy an interactive Bush Food tutorial and dinner in Cairns.
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Meals
Meals included as specified in the itinerary.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the Harbour Bridge climb, jetboat ride, bike tour, sea kayaking, skydive, scenic flight, and bungy jumping are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights to and from Australia
International flights to and from Australia are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes flights between destinations, coach rides, and ferry transfers, ensuring a seamless travel experience across Australia's stunning landscapes.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a surf lesson in Byron Bay, a day trip to Whitehaven Beach with snorkeling, a tour of the Daintree Rainforest, and an interactive Bush Food tutorial and dinner in Cairns.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available such as the Harbour Bridge climb, jetboat ride, bike tour, sea kayaking, skydive, scenic flight, and bungy jumping.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Wake Up, Habitat Noosa, Nomads Airlie Beach, Nomads Magnetic Island, and Gilligans.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
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What is the starting and ending location of the tour?
The tour starts in Sydney and ends in Cairns.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Are international flights to and from Australia included in the tour package?
No, international flights to and from Australia are not included.
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What kind of experiences can I expect in the Daintree Rainforest?
In the Daintree Rainforest, you will tour the world's oldest rainforest, learn about ancient 'Dreamtime' stories, and meet the local Kuku Yalanji people to learn about their rich Aboriginal culture and history.
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What activities are available on Magnetic Island?
On Magnetic Island, you can explore coastal walking trails, partake in watersports, meet local marsupials, and enjoy the sunset with champagne.
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What can I do during the free day in Airlie Beach?
During the free day in Airlie Beach, you can opt for sea kayaking, a skydive, a scenic flight over the Whitsunday islands, or simply relax on the beach and explore local boutiques and restaurants.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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