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8 Day Intrepid Travel Brisbane to Cairns Adventure

8 days 7 nights
Brisbane to Cairns
from NZD$4,952pp
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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 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 accommodation for a refreshingly hot shower – Queensland is calling!

Is this trip right for you?

  • There are some long travelling days. (An included flight between Brisbane and Proserpine speeds things up) but it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
  • This trip visits some amazing beaches along the way. Please consider your level of swimming skill before getting in the water.
  • Only some meals are included on this trip. This allows for more freedom and flexibility, as there are often many great dining options along this part of the coast.
    This trip is part of a combination tour, with other travellers joining from Sydney when you’re starting in Brisbane. If you'd like to check out the Sydney to Cairns 14-day trip, please chat with us.
  • A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 1, 2, 5 and 6 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to us for further information.
BeachesWildlife & nature

This Tour Also Features

  • Atherton Tablelands Highlights Tour
  • Ferry to Fraser Island
  • Fraser Island 4WD highlights tour
  • Great Barrier Reef Day Cruise and Snorkelling Adventure
  • Noosa National Park Visit
  • Meals included: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
Tour special blurb

Additional departure dates for this tour may be available - please chat with us if you don't see the dates you're looking for.
The pricing on all Intrepid Tours is dynamic - this means that the price may change as demand changes. We recommend booking early to secure the price you see!

Tour full itinerary
Itinerary
Day One - Welcome to Brisbane and K'gari (Fraser Island)
Tour day 1
Aerial View of Brisbane

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, 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 Fraser Island (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.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting at 10 am as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent know. Ask reception for more information on where the meeting will take place. Today's driving time will be approximately 3.5 hours (300km). Please note that the departure on 13th January 2023 will stay on Fraser Island rather than at Rainbow Beach. Due to driving times we won't be able to visit Noosa and Carlo Sandblow on this departure.

Activities:

  • Rainbow Beach - Carlo Sandblow walk
  • Noosa - Noosa National Park visit

Staying in:

  • Resort (1 night)

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Day Two - Explore K'gari (Fraser Island)
Tour day 2
Dingo on the Beach in Fraser Island

After breakfast, head over to stunning Fraser Island (K'gari) by ferry. In 2021 Fraser Island had been officially renamed K’gari, the original Butchulla people’s name for the island, meaning 'paradise' - you’ll find out why soon enough. The move was celebrated with a ceremony with Elders and representatives of the region's traditional owners. 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 Fraser Island (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 Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora) – 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.

Activities:

  • Fraser Island (K'gari) - Highlights by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach

Staying in:

  • Resort (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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Day Three - Brisbane to Airlie Beach
Tour day 3
Children on Airlie Beach

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.

The driving time from Fraser Island to Brisbane Airport will be approximately 3 hours (250km). Today's flight departs from Brisbane and arrives into Proserpine (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes).

Staying in:

  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast

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Day Four - Cruise around the islands and beaches of the Whitsundays
Tour day 4
View of Whitehaven Beach

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.

Your leader will be of assistance to help you book your Whitsunday Islands cruise for today. We hold allotments for this activity, so please speak to your leader on day 1 of the trip to confirm your spot. Payment can be made on the day directly to the boat operator.

Staying in:

  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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Day Five - Relax and explore at Mission Beach
Tour day 5
Image of Cassowary

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.

Today's driving time will be approximately 7 hours (550km).

Staying in:

  • Resort (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast

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Day Six - Cruise and snorkell around the world famous Great Barrier Reef
Tour day 6
Fish in Great Barrier Reef

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.

Activities:

  • Great Barrier Reef - Day Cruise & Snorkelling Adventure

Staying in:

  • Resort (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast

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Day Seven - Venture into the tropic of Atherton Tablelands
Tour day 7
Muillaa Millaa Falls in Arherton Tablelands

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.

Activities:

  • Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour

Staying in:

  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day Eight - Farewell from Cairns
Tour day 8
View of Cairns Lagoon

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.

Meals included: Breakfast

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Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise it to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Tour departure list
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 19 departure dates.
All prices are in
Starts Status Twin/Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Nov 10, 2023
(Friday)
Hot deal
NZD$4,952 NZD$6,208 Enquire
Nov 24, 2023
(Friday)
Hot deal
NZD$4,952 NZD$6,208 Enquire
Dec 8, 2023
(Friday)
NZD$5,050 NZD$6,296 Enquire
Jan 12, 2024
(Friday)
Check with us
NZD$5,499 NZD$6,750 Enquire
Feb 23, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Mar 8, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Mar 22, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Apr 12, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
May 10, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Jun 14, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Jul 12, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Aug 9, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Sep 13, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Oct 11, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Oct 25, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Nov 8, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Nov 22, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Dec 6, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
Dec 20, 2024
(Friday)
NZD$5,196 NZD$6,447 Enquire
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