Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 9 days
Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 9 days
Whitsundays, Reef & Rainforest - 9 days
9 Days Starting in Brisbane, Australia and ending in Port Douglas
Visiting: Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Port Douglas
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an incredible 9-day journey starting in Brisbane and concluding in Cairns. Relax at Airlie Beach and Mission Beach, discover the colourful corals and marine life of the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkelling excursion and sail around the blissful Whitsunday Islands. Discover the scenic Atherton Tablelands, explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge on foot and from above, and enjoy a thrilling crocodile cruise, plus lots more!
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, we delve deeper into the tropical World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. After a short ferry crossing, we’ll explore the ancient rainforest on foot, learning about its unique ecosystem and meeting the local family who once hosted David Attenborough’s documentary crew. Keep an eye out for cassowaries, rare birds, and other fascinating wildlife as you wander through this wonderland. In the afternoon, embark on an eco-friendly cruise along the Daintree River (Julaymba) aboard the Solar Whisper, a quiet, solar-powered boat. This immersive wildlife experience offers the chance to spot crocodiles, birds, snakes, frogs, and more, with the help of your expert guide and the innovative “CROC CAM” technology. As the day winds down, enjoy a scenic coastal drive back to Cairns, where your tour concludes upon arrival at approximately 6 pm. Finishing Point: Crystalbrook Flynn, 68/72 Abbott St, CairnsYour tour finishes on arrival at the Flynn Hotel at approximately 6:00 pm. Please avoid booking any onward flights from Cairns any earlier than 8pm or contact us to book post-tour accommodation.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star hotels & acommodation -
Daily breakfasts & 4 lunches
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8 nights 3-4 star hotels
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Escorted by an expert local guide
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All transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles
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Economy class flight from Brisbane - Airlie Beach
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Brisbane orientation walk
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Whitsundays Islands cruise with snorkelling
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Atherton Tablelands tour
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Great Barrier Reef glass-bottomed boat tour and snorkelling
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Kuranda rainforest gondola ride
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.