Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 10 days
Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 10 days
Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 10 days
10 Days Starting in Brisbane, Australia and ending in Cairns, Australia
Visiting: Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Cairns
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a 10-day adventure through Australia's stunning landscapes with the "Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest" tour. Begin in Brisbane, exploring the vibrant city before flying to Airlie Beach, where you can unwind and soak up the sun. Cruise the Whitsundays, visiting the iconic Whitehaven Beach and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Journey through the Atherton Tablelands, swim under waterfalls, and marvel at the Curtain Fig Tree. Experience the Great Barrier Reef's underwater wonders on a glass-bottomed boat tour. Ride a gondola over the ancient Kuranda rainforest and explore the Daintree Rainforest on foot and by boat. Enjoy cultural experiences with the Kuku Yalanji First Nations and relax in the laid-back coastal town of Port Douglas. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a mix of guided activities and free time, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Queensland's natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Brisbane
Location: Brisbane
Accommodation Name: The Point Brisbane
Arrive in Brisbane and make your way to our start hotel. Welcome to the capital of Queensland and future host of the 2032 summer Olympics. Known as Bris-Vegas, this city is characterized by its relaxed atmosphere, sunny weather, optimistic spirit, and vibrant energy, making it the epitome of an Australian city.
Our welcome meeting will take place at 6:00 pm on Day 1 at the starting point hotel. It’s very important that you’re on time, so we can set off on our adventures straight after the meeting. Following a brief introduction, we embark on an evening orientation walk to explore the city, and the evening is free for you to get to know your group and find a restaurant for dinner.
Meeting point: The Point Brisbane, 21 Lambert Street, Brisbane, Queensland
Day 2: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Brisbane - Airlie Beach. This morning we head to the airport for our included flight to Airlie Beach, a beautiful destination in the Whitsundays. The rest of the day is free, and full of possibilities. You can wander around the town, discover a trendy bar, or even explore the nearby local swimming hole, it's up to you!
Day 3: Airlie Beach
Location: Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we're enjoying a laid back morning cruise around the picturesque islands of the Whitsundays. Our itinerary includes a visit to the renowned Whitehaven beach, which boasts stunning white sands, crystal clear blue waters, and lush greenery. For a more immersive experience, you can go snorkelling to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish and turtles. Returning to dry land, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 4: Mission Beach
Location: Mission Beach
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Airlie Beach - Mission Beach. Today, we will experience a change of scenery as we travel through rolling cane fields to the charming coastal resort of Mission Beach. In the afternoon, there is ample time to relax and appreciate the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking vistas. Take advantage of this opportunity to catch up on your reading or simply unwind by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, immersing yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Day 5: Mission Beach
Location: Mission Beach
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before we embark on a journey through the lush wet tropics of Far North Queensland. On our way to the Atherton Tablelands, we will come across a breathtaking plunge waterfall hidden within a dense tropical rainforest. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water, and keep an eye out for the native platypus!
Continuing our adventure, we will visit Lake Eacham, a stunning crater lake known for its crystal-clear water. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the impressive 'Curtain Fig Tree' during our visit.
Day 6: Cairns
Location: Great Barrier Reef
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mission Beach - Cairns. Today may go down as the highlight of your Australia tour, as we embark on a cruise aboard a glass-bottomed boat to the UNESCO-protected Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most renowned natural wonders. Don your mask and snorkel and head below the waves to see shoals of colourful fish, rays, turtles and perhaps even a curious shark or two!
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guides will offer insights on reef conservation and about the species you see. Our top-notch vessel will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience, and you can also join optional scuba diving if you would like to go a little deeper down to the reef. Back on dry land, there is an included group dinner tonight in Cairns, where we are sure to reflect on our incredible experience!
Please note: For the optional scuba diving, this will be an introductory dive to about 5-6 metres. If you are already a certified diver, you may dive to depths of up to 15 metres.
Day 7: Kuranda
Location: Kuranda
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Cairns - Kuranda - Port Douglas. Departing Cairns, we journey first to Kuranda. Here we enjoy an included ride on the Skyrail gondola, which passes over the world's oldest living tropical rainforest. Soak up the magnificent view over this ancient forest, teeming with life. Next, we continue north to the serene town of Port Douglas, renowned for its captivating sunsets and leisurely atmosphere. The evening is free to head out for dinner and a couple of sundowners.
Day 8: Port Douglas
Location: Port Douglas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy a lie in, rise early for a morning jog or grab a fresh coffee from one of Port Douglas' many local brewers - the first part of the day is at leisure.
In the afternoon, an included visit to Mossman Gorge offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest on a scenic walk. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the fascinating culture, delectable cuisine, and unique customs of the Kuku Yalanji First Nations with an incredible and educational cultural experience.
Day 9: Port Douglas
Location: Port Douglas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a significant day as we venture further into the renowned Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation on a short ferry ride. Keep your eyes peeled for the ancient cassowary, crocodiles and other native wildlife as we explore the rainforest. And you will also have an opportunity to meet the native family who graciously hosted the crew working on David Attenborough's documentary. We enjoy a farewell group dinner back in Port Douglas, as tonight is the final night of our trip.
Day 10: Cairns
Location: Cairns
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Port Douglas - Cairns. Enjoy a final breakfast in Port Douglas before we make the drive south back to Cairns, where our tour comes to an end.
Our tour finishes on arrival at the Flynn Hotel at approximately 11:00 am. Please avoid booking any onward flights from Cairns any earlier than 1pm.
Finishing Point: Crystalbrook Flynn, 68/72 Abbott St, Cairns, Queensland
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star hotels & acommodation -
9 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 2 dinners
Enjoy 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners during your tour.
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9 nights 3-4 star hotels
Stay in 3-4 star hotels for 9 nights.
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Escorted by an expert local guide
Be accompanied by an expert local guide throughout the tour.
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All transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles
Travel in private, air-conditioned vehicles for all transportation needs.
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Economy class flight from Brisbane - Airlie Beach
Includes an economy class flight from Brisbane to Airlie Beach.
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Brisbane orientation walk
Participate in an orientation walk in Brisbane.
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Whitsundays Islands cruise with snorkelling
Enjoy a cruise around the Whitsundays Islands with snorkelling opportunities.
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Atherton Tablelands tour
Take a tour of the Atherton Tablelands.
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Great Barrier Reef glass-bottomed boat tour and snorkelling
Experience a glass-bottomed boat tour and snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef.
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Kuranda rainforest gondola ride
Ride a gondola over the Kuranda rainforest.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
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Additional meals and drinks unless specified
Additional meals and drinks are not included unless specified.
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities & additional attractions unless specified above
Optional activities and additional attractions are not included unless specified.
Age Policy
Minimum age 18Essentials tours not recommended for pax over 55 - upsell Handpicked
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with all transportation provided in private, air-conditioned vehicles, including an economy class flight from Brisbane to Airlie Beach, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventure in the stunning landscapes of Australia.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 9 nights in 3-4 star hotels.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners.
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Is there a guide accompanying the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local guide.
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What transportation is used during the tour?
All transportation is provided in private, air-conditioned vehicles, and there is an economy class flight from Brisbane to Airlie Beach included.
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What activities are included in the Whitsundays part of the tour?
The tour includes a cruise around the Whitsundays Islands with a visit to Whitehaven Beach and snorkeling opportunities.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Great Barrier Reef?
The tour includes a glass-bottomed boat tour and snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, with opportunities to see colorful fish, rays, turtles, and possibly sharks.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a Kuku Yalanji (First Nations) cultural experience, offering insights into their culture, cuisine, and customs.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Kuranda?
In Kuranda, you will enjoy a ride on the Skyrail gondola, which offers magnificent views over the ancient rainforest.
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What wildlife might I see in the Daintree Rainforest?
In the Daintree Rainforest, you may see cassowaries, crocodiles, and other native wildlife.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 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 on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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