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18 to 35s Real Australia

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18 to 35s Real Australia

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Description

If you love the ocean, the rainforest and Australian wildlife, this 17-day journey from Sydney to Cairns might be the one for you. Go stand-up paddleboarding with the Gumbaynggirr community, meet koalas in Port Macquarie, feast on a classic barbecue in Red Rock and tour Mungalla Station with a First Nations guide. Chill out in Byron Bay, hit the beaches in Noosa and the Gold Coast and take a walk in Crowdy Bay National Park. Explore the Whitsundays with your new travel friends, go snorkelling and visit scenic Magnetic Island, then end your epic adventure in Cairns.

Trip Name
18 to 35s Real Australia
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
17
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Hop aboard for an epic day on the water in the stunning Whitsundays. Go snorkelling and soak up the scenery as you cruise through these picturesque islands.
  • Support the local Gumbaynggirr community with stand-up paddleboarding in Coffs Harbour. Gliding along the river, you’ll take in the natural surroundings with an indigenous-owned social enterprise focusing on preserving culture and language.
  • Spend two nights on Magnetic Island, known for its amazing natural scenery, lush walking trails, secluded beaches and koalas that live in the treetops.
  • Make the most of free time in iconic east coast spots like Byron Bay, Mission Beach and Noosa – why not surf, swim, hike, chill out on the beach, watch the sunset or explore these natural landscapes at your own pace.
  • Visit the Koala Conservation Hospital in Port Macquarie to meet the volunteers and learn how they provide care and treatment for koalas in need of rehabilitation.

Itinerary

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL EXPERIENCES & COMMUNITIES First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments. In the case that we are unable to include planned activities with First Nations communities, we will endeavour to find a suitable alternative in the same or another destination on your trip.

Day 1 - Sydney
Welcome to Sydney! Or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Sydney is now located. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not take a self-guided walk to the Harbour Bridge, see the Opera House, wander through the Botanical Gardens and Hyde Park or head up to the Sydney Tower Eye. After the meeting tonight, maybe join your group for a dinner along Darling Harbour and get to know each other.
Day 2 - Port Macquarie
Today, you’ll head to Port Macquarie, known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches and abundance of wildlife. Grab lunch along the way, then soak up the picturesque drive along the coastline. You’ll make a few stops to stretch your legs and take photos, including at Crowdy Bay National Park. Here, go on a walk along the leafy Mermaid Lookout Track to a viewpoint overlooking where the ocean meets the forest below. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins off the coast – you may even encounter a mob of kangaroos on your walk! Carry on to Port Macquarie, where you’ll have a free night to relax at your accommodation or watch the sunset on the beach.
Day 3 - Red Rock
This morning, you’ll visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where you’ll meet the volunteers who work there and learn about how this organisation provides care and treatment for koalas needing rehabilitation. Then, drive to Red Rock in Coffs Harbour, stopping for lunch along the way. The northernmost village on the Coffs Coast, Red Rock sits between the beach and the Corindi River and is popular for water activities like kayaking and boating. When you arrive, you’ll share a barbecue dinner with your group as the sun goes down, with all the typical Aussie fare.
Day 4 - Byron Bay
Today you’ll head out on the harbour for a special stand-up paddleboarding experience with the Gumbaynggirr community. This social enterprise supports the local Aboriginal community by ensuring intergenerational cultural knowledge is passed on and by providing employment opportunities. A portion of the proceeds also goes to the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation, which provides after-school learning centres, cultural camps and revitalisation initiatives for the Gumbaynggirr language. With your local guides, glide along the river, soaking up the ambience. After, head to Byron Bay – one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, known for its beaches, surfing and scuba diving. Check out the Byron Lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot some dolphins, whales and other marine life if you’re lucky.
Day 5 - Byron Bay
Get up early this morning if you want to catch the sunrise (it’s a pretty cool sight from Australia's most easterly point). Today is free for you to explore this surfer's paradise however you like. Maybe hunt down the best cold-brew coffee from one of Byron’s local cafes, then learn how to ride the waves with a beginner’s surf lesson. You can hit the water with a guided sea kayaking tour of the Byron Bay Marine Park to see the beauty of the coastline while looking out for dolphins, turtles and whales. Or, just hang out on the beach! Tonight, why not grab a drink at one of the pubs or bars with a few of your fellow travellers.
Day 6 - Gold Coast
This morning, head to The Farm – a collection of micro-businesses on a working farm that focuses on growing, feeding and educating the community through farming. Maybe grab some breakfast here and pick up a few things to have for lunch later on. Continue to Springbrook National Park and take a walk to the Natural Bridge rock arch, which was formed by the force of a waterfall over a basalt cave. This afternoon, head to the Gold Coast, famous for its long stretch of beach and surf spots. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to explore the town or relax by the water. If you’re still out and about once the sun goes down, why not explore the local nightlife – your leader will be able to recommend all the best spots.
Day 7 - Brisbane
If you’re game, maybe wake up early this morning to watch the sunrise from the beach. Today, you’ll head to Brisbane. Your evening is free, so why not grab your group and head out to a local restaurant – your leader will always have the best recommendations for delicious eats and hang-out spots.
Day 8 - Brisbane
Today is a free day to explore Brisbane however you like. You’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new travellers joining you for the second leg of the adventure. Until then, why not explore the Botanic Gardens, Roma Street Parklands or chase views overlooking the city at the Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout. After your meeting, maybe head to dinner with your group and get to know each other better.
Day 9 - Noosa
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 just outside Noosa 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.
Day 10 - Noosa
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.
Day 11 - Noosa
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?).
Day 12 - Airlie Beach
Arrive in Proserpine early this morning and meet your new trip leader at the station. From here, you’ll drive to Airlie Beach where you’ll have a full free day to spend however you like. Maybe go for a dip, head to a cafe for some brunch or chill out on the sand. Tonight, why not gather some of your new travel friends and head to a waterfront restaurant for dinner? Ask your leader for recommendations for the best places to eat.
Day 13 - Whitsundays Island to Airlie Beach
Wake up early this morning and get ready for a daytrip to the scenic Whitsundays by boat. Hit the water and take in the gorgeous landscapes and seascapes, making stops at some of the best snorkelling spots and at Whitehaven Beach – with strikingly white sands, this beach sits in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the boat, search for marine life and colourful coral and soak up the beauty of this scenic area. Tonight, return to Airlie Beach and maybe grab a sunset drink before joining your group for dinner.
Day 14 - Magnetic Island
You’ll have some free time this morning to relax on the beach or grab a bite to eat before you make the drive to Townsville. When 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 trails.
Day 15 - Magnetic Island
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. 
Day 16 - Mission Beach
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.
Day 17 - 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.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
25-10-202610-11-2026AUD $ 4,046-
20-12-202605-01-2027AUD $ 5,295-
31-01-202716-02-2027AUD $ 5,660-
21-02-202709-03-2027AUD $ 5,660-
28-03-202713-04-2027AUD $ 5,660-
11-04-202727-04-2027AUD $ 5,675-
30-05-202715-06-2027AUD $ 5,675-
27-06-202713-07-2027AUD $ 5,675-
25-07-202710-08-2027AUD $ 5,675-
22-08-202707-09-2027AUD $ 5,675-
26-09-202712-10-2027AUD $ 5,675-
24-10-202709-11-2027AUD $ 5,675-
07-11-202723-11-2027AUD $ 5,675-
19-12-202704-01-2028AUD $ 5,675-
02-01-202818-01-2028AUD $ 5,675-
09-01-202825-01-2028AUD $ 5,675-
30-01-202815-02-2028AUD $ 5,675-
13-02-202829-02-2028AUD $ 5,675-
27-02-202814-03-2028AUD $ 5,675-
12-03-202828-03-2028AUD $ 5,675-
26-03-202811-04-2028AUD $ 5,675-

Accommodation

Hostel (Multi-share) (13 nights), Holiday Park (Multi-share) (1 night), Overnight Train (1 night), Rainforest Retreat (1 night)

Transport

Private Vehicle, Overnight Train, Ferry, Bus

Map

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