Essential Brisbane to Cairns

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10 Days From

~~$2610~~

$2349

Essential Brisbane to Cairns

10 Days Starting in Brisbane, Australia and ending in Cairns, Australia

Visiting: Brisbane, Noosa, Magnetic Island, Mission Beach, Cairns

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

PZYB

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Tour operated in:

English

From: $2610 $2349 (USD) Operator discount: -$261

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Essential Brisbane to Cairns" tour and experience the best of Australia's east coast. Begin your journey in vibrant Brisbane, then head to the serene town of Noosa for coastal walks and potential koala sightings. Enjoy a thrilling two-night sailing adventure through the Whitsundays, where you can snorkel, scuba dive, or simply relax in the onboard jacuzzi. Discover the natural beauty of Magnetic Island, home to lush trails and secluded beaches. Learn about the Nywaigi people's history and culture at Mungalla Station, and explore the wetlands teeming with birdlife. Unwind on the palm-fringed sands of Mission Beach before concluding your adventure in Cairns. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural insights, wildlife encounters, and stunning landscapes, all while traveling in style with carefully selected accommodations.

Highlights

Hop aboard for a two-night sailing adventure through the stunning Whitsundays, with opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Meet with a First Nations guide at Mungalla Station to learn about the history and culture of the Nywaigi people.
Spend two nights on Magnetic Island, known for its natural scenery, walking trails, secluded beaches, and koalas.
Relax among the palm trees on Mission Beach, with time to enjoy the warm sands and ocean views.
Discover the town of Noosa and take the Coastal Walk to Hell's Gate lookout, with options for surfing or an eco-safari through the Everglades.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Brisbane

Location: Brisbane

Accommodation: Hostel (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Hostel

Welcome to Brisbane! Or Meanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not explore the Botanic Gardens, Roma Street Parkland or chase views overlooking the city at the Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout. After your meeting tonight, maybe head to dinner with your group and get to know each other better – your leader will always have some great recommendations.

Day 2: Noosa

Location: Noosa

Accommodation: Hostel (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Hostel

This morning, you’ll head for Noosa – a serene town along the Sunshine Coast and home to Sunshine Beach (popular for surfing) and Noosa National Park. You’ll head straight for the park’s lush surroundings and take on part of the Coastal Walk hike. Walk along the shoreline and the headlands, which make way for sweeping ocean views, rocky bays and sandy beaches. Look out for marine life cruising by and if you’re lucky, spot some koalas in the trees munching on eucalyptus. The pinnacle of the walk will be Hell’s Gate Lookout, which offers 270-degree views of the ocean beyond. Look for ospreys soaring above or pods of dolphins playing below. Maybe grab some lunch, then check into your accommodation for the night, getting ready for a free evening to spend however you like. You could take on an afternoon surf lesson, go for another walk or maybe just relax at the beach and watch the sunset.

Included Activities:
-Noosa - Hell's Gates Lookout
-Noosa - Coastal Walk

Day 3: Noosa

Location: Noosa

Accommodation: Hostel (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Hostel

Today is a free day to explore Noosa and the surrounding areas. Consider taking a day trip to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island). This guided 4WD tour around the world's largest sand island takes you to Lake McKenzie, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest, 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck. Alternatively, you can hit the waters on a boat tour through the Noosa Everglades. This eco-safari will take you on a guided cruise through the everglades, where a vast array of birdlife call home. From the boat, you can also opt to jump in canoes and paddle among the mirrored waterways to the historic Harry’s Hut.

Optional Activities:
-Noosa - K’gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

Day 4: Noosa / Overnight Train

Location: Noosa

Accommodation: Overnight Train

Accommodation Name: Overnight Train

Today is free to take the everglades eco-safari if you didn’t get the chance to yesterday. Alternatively, just chill out in Noosa, explore the town or hit the beach. Tonight, you’ll take an overnight train to the Whitsundays region – maybe grab some bits to have for dinner and snacks on board and settle in for a fun night with your bunkmates (cards, anyone?).

Optional Activities:
-Noosa - Everglades Explorer Tour (from)

Day 5: Airlie Beach / Whitsunday Sailing

Location: Whitsunday Islands

Accommodation: Overnight Sailing (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Overnight Sailing

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Proserpine early this morning and meet your new leader at the station. From here, you’ll drive to Airlie Beach for some free time to go for a dip, grab breakfast or chill out on the sand. This afternoon, you’ll embark on a special two-night sailing trip in the Whitsundays – a group of islands in the Coral Sea, popular for the gorgeous natural scenery, bright blue waters and white sands. Climb aboard the boat, your home for the next two days, and set sail! During your time aboard, you’ll have the luxury of an onboard jacuzzi (is there a better spot to watch the sunset?) and opportunities to go scuba diving, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding.

Included Activities:
-Whitsunday Islands - Sailing Excursion (2 Nights)

Day 6: Whitsunday Sailing

Location: Whitsunday Islands

Accommodation: Overnight Sailing (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Overnight Sailing

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early this morning to make the most of your day at sea – take in the gorgeous landscapes and seascapes of the Whitsundays and make stops at the gorgeous Whitehaven Beach, – in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands, this beach also sits in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef – Hill Inlet lookout, and some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling spots in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Enjoy deliciously fresh meals on the boat, meet some new friends and soak up the beauty of this scenic area. Tonight, you might even head to a secret beach for sunset drinks!

Included Activities:
-Whitsunday Islands - Sailing Excursion (2 Nights)

Day 7: Magnetic Island

Location: Magnetic Island

Accommodation: Hostel (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Soak up the bliss of your last morning on the boat, then disembark in Airlie. After some free time to relax on the beach or grab some lunch, you’ll drive to Townsville. As soon as you arrive, hop on the ferry to Magnetic Island – this mountainous island in Cleveland Bay is known for its scenic national park, abundance of koalas, secluded beaches and hiking opportunities.

Day 8: Magnetic Island

Location: Magnetic Island

Accommodation: Hostel (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Hostel

Today is dedicated to soaking up all the natural scenery of Magnetic Island. Explore at your own pace – maybe go in search of a secluded beach and set up shop, take on a hike or just chill out with a drink. Later, hike along the Forts Walking Track with your group, looking out for the resident koalas and enjoying the gorgeous views. There are even some World War II relics to see among the tropical landscape.

Included Activities:
-Magnetic Island - Forts Walking Track

Day 9: Mission Beach

Location: Mission Beach

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (Multi-share)

Accommodation Name: Rainforest Retreat

Meals Included: Dinner

Say goodbye to the island as you take the morning ferry back to Townsville. From here, drive to Mungalla station, where you’ll meet the First Nations owners of the land – the Nywaigi people – and learn about their culture and history, including the brutal conflicts with European settlers. The story you’ve been told will come to life as you visit an exhibition of pictures within the historic homestead. Then head out and explore the Mungalla wetlands in search of aquatic birdlife. Drive to Mission Beach this afternoon – a small coastal town with expansive beaches, lined with palm trees.

Included Activities:
-Mungalla Station - Nywaigi First Nations Guided Tour

Day 10: Cairns

Location: Cairns

Your last day of adventure begins with a drive to Cairns, where your trip will come to an end. Along the way, maybe stop by some waterfalls and swimming holes, soaking in the last of the gorgeous natural scenery. When you arrive, it’s time to say goodbye to an awesome adventure! If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Cairns further, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

Accommodation
Hostel (Multi-share) (5 nights), Overnight Train (1 night), Overnight Sailing (Multi-share) (2 nights), Rainforest Retreat (Multi-share) (1 night)
Meals
2 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 3 dinners
Noosa - Hell's Gates Lookout

Visit the Hell's Gates Lookout in Noosa for stunning ocean views.
Noosa - Coastal Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the coastline in Noosa.
Whitsunday Islands - Sailing Excursion (2 Nights)

Experience a two-night sailing adventure in the Whitsunday Islands.
Magnetic Island - Forts Walking Track

Explore the Forts Walking Track on Magnetic Island, known for its natural beauty and wildlife.
Mungalla Station - Nywaigi First Nations Guided Tour

Learn about the history and culture of the Nywaigi people with a guided tour at Mungalla Station.

What's Not Included

Single Room Supplement

A single room supplement is available for those who prefer not to share a room, excluding certain days.
Overnight Train Economy Seats

The overnight train journey is in economy seats and is not accompanied by a tour leader.

Transport

Private Vehicle , Overnight Train , Overnight Sailing , Ferry , Bus

Accommodation

We've sourced our accommodation very carefully and picked the best possible properties in line with the Intrepid 18 to 35s style of travel. Our first accommodation choice is always as close to the main attraction of the destination as possible, however, sometimes we are not in the right centre of action, which means you may need to hop on a public transport to get to the city centre. Your accommodation will not always have private ensuite facilities or air-conditioning.OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONThe style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.ROOMING ALLOCATIONAccommodation on this trip is on a multi-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with other travellers of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports.CHECK-IN TIMEThroughout the trip we request that our accommodation prepares rooms in time for your arrival, especially if you're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means you won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some properties. Instead, you can store your luggage and go exploring.PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATIONIf you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.

Important Information

1. A single room supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. If you are a single traveller this will give you a single room, if you are travelling as a couple a double/twin room will be allocated to you. The single supplement excludes Day 4 (Overnight Train) and Days 5 & 6 (Whitsundays Sailing) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.2. Accommodation on this trip is in multi-share hostels. Multishare typically includes 4-8 beds. You may be required to share with non-Intrepid travellers outside of your group. People travelling together may occasionally be separated due to single gender dorms.3. The overnight train is in economy seats and is not accompanied by a tour leader. Luggage weight allowance is one checked piece (20kgs) and one carry on hand luggage. Throughout the year, scheduled railway track works may take place on this route, sometimes at short notice. Should these tracks works take place, we will travel via overnight bus instead of the train. Currently we are aware of Queensland Rail having track works tentatively scheduled for the following departure dates: 14 Sep 2025 (trip code: PZYB250914).

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes a mix of private vehicles, an overnight train, overnight sailing, ferries, and buses, providing a diverse and flexible travel experience throughout the tour.

Accommodation

Accommodation is carefully selected to align with the Intrepid 18 to 35s style, often close to main attractions. Expect multi-share hostels without private ensuite facilities or air-conditioning, and occasional alternative arrangements due to availability. Rooming is gender-based, and early check-in isn't always possible.

Check out our Q&As

What activities are available during the Whitsundays sailing adventure?

During the Whitsundays sailing adventure, you can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and relaxing in the onboard jacuzzi. You'll also visit Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet lookout, and have the opportunity to enjoy sunset drinks on a secret beach.
What can I expect during the visit to Mungalla Station?

At Mungalla Station, you'll meet with a First Nations guide to learn about the history and culture of the Nywaigi people. You'll also explore the Mungalla wetlands to discover the abundance of birdlife that inhabits the area.
What is the accommodation like on this tour?

Accommodation on this tour is primarily in multi-share hostels, which typically include 4-8 beds. You may be required to share with non-Intrepid travelers. The tour also includes an overnight train journey and a two-night sailing trip where accommodation is shared.
Are there any special considerations for the overnight train journey?

The overnight train journey is in economy seats and is not accompanied by a tour leader. There is a luggage weight allowance of one checked piece (20kgs) and one carry-on hand luggage.
What wildlife might I see on Magnetic Island?

On Magnetic Island, you can expect to see koalas in their natural habitat, especially along the Forts Walking Track. The island is also known for its scenic national park and secluded beaches.

What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

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Apr 27, 2025 - May 06, 2025

~~$2740~~ $2466 (USD)

Operator discount: -$274 (USD)

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May 25, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025

~~$2610~~ $2349 (USD)