Australia Reefs and Rainforests Trips for 18 - 35 Year
Young Professionals and College Students
Overview
Wild nights and wildlife await you on this tour of Australia's East Coast. Cairns in the
north to Sydney in the south you'll see all of what the coast has to offer. You'll take a rooftop ride
along the rainforest canopy, go snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, and get a couple of days to relax in
the Whitsunday Islands. From there it's back to the mainland where guided bushwalks, koalas and kangaroos
await. You'll enjoy a 'knees-up' at a farmstay before heading back to the beach. But not just any beach,
Surfers Paradise - some of the best surf and sand in the world! But why end it there? Extend your stay
with our Sydney Scene package.
Itinerary
Day 1 and
2 Depart for Australia Fly over the international date line on your way to Australia.
Day
3 Arrive Cairns Check into your Cairns Colonial Club Resort,the rest of the afternoon is free for you to
explore. Resort
Day
4 Cairns to Cape
Tribulation The rainforest adventure begins! We head north to see Port Douglas for lunch, with time to
enjoy this holiday resort for the rich and famous. Then on to Mossman Gorge for a trail walk and perhaps a
refreshing afternoon swim. We'll then head up the coast towards Daintree and our resort. Resort (D)
Day
5 Cape Tribulation The opposite of tribulation. Today we'll explore the lush Daintree Rainforest and Cape
Tribulation National Park. A 'must do' is a dip in one of the many swimming holes before we head back to
Cape Tribulation Beach. Resort (B)
Day
6 Cape Tribulation to
Cairns Crossing the Daintree River, we leave the heritage listed rainforest to visit Tjapukai and
Kuranda with the chance to take a scenic ride high above the rainforest rooftop on Skyrail. Then check
into our Cairns hotel, situated in a lush tropical setting. Resort (B)
Day 7 and
8 Cairns For the adventurous, a chance to do some white water rafting on the rapids of the Tully
River, or take the opportunity to visit the famous Outer Barrier Reef aboard a high-speed catamaran. Why
not scuba dive amidst amazingly colourful tropical fish? Or if you prefer, maybe spend the days at leisure
doing some shopping in town. In the evening we'll check out more tropical wildlife at one of Cairns'
nightclubs! Resort
Day
9 Cairns to
Whitsundays We'll leave this morning to travel South to Townsville to explore the scenic lookout of
Castle Hill. This evening we'll board our launch at Shute Harbour and make the short journey to Long
Island, one of the jewels of the Whitsundays. Resort (B,D)
Day 10 and
11 Whitsundays Time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and great amenities of Long Island. If you're feeling
energetic why not go bushwalking, play tennis or beach volleyball, or take to the water with a snorkel or
a jet ski? If you prefer to relax then unwind on the palm-lined beach, have a massage, or sip cocktails at
the bar as you watch another perfect sunset. Resort (B)(B)
Day
12 Whitsundays to Country
Homestead Travel through sugar cane fields via Mackay to the Capricorn Coast and into the heart of
Australia's beef industry. Then to our unique Aussie experience at our Country Homestead. Enjoy a hearty
meal and hospitality the Australian way! Country Homestead (B,D)
Day
13 Country Homestead to Fraser
Island This morning we continue through the country as we leave our Country Homestead, before
hooking up with our ferry to Fraser Island. Eco Lodge (B,D)
Day
14 Fraser Island Now you're on the largest sand island in the world! What to do? Here are a few clues. Why
not take a 4-wheel drive bus tour through the rainforests, a guided bushwalk or a swim in the fresh water
lakes? With this many options there's no chance of going troppo! Eco Lodge
Day
15 Fraser Island to Surfers
Paradise Today we travel South along the coast to Noosa Heads with its stunning beaches and great
shopping. From there we'll take in the sights and sounds of Brisbane before arriving in Surfers Paradise.
After dinner, try your luck at Jupiter's Casino! Hotel (B)
Day
16 Surfers
Paradise So much to do in the name of leisure. Here goes! Relax on 42km (26miles) of white sand
beaches, or if you're feeling adventurous - why not try a tandem skydive, Tigermoth joyflight or Harley
Davidson ride. All are available in Australia's biggest playground. Hotel
Day
17 Surfers Paradise to Coffs Harbour (Surf
Village) Today see Australian wildlife at Currumbin, before we are on to Byron Bay with plenty of
time to relish this arty town. Later we arrive at our Surf Village near Coffs Harbour for a night of
festivities! Surf Village (B,D)
Day
18 Coffs Harbour to Shoal Bay (Port
Stephens) This morning a chance to try the iconic Aussie sport of surfing, and be taught by the best in
the business, at our Surf Village. This afternoon we drive to Port Stephens and our resort at spectacular
Shoal Bay. Resort (B,D)
Day 19 Shoal Bay to
SydneyToday you can choose to cruise with dolphins, or why not take a tour through the sand dunes and
try your hand at sandboarding! This afternoon we cross the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. We'll then make
a photostop taking in the harbour and Opera House. Time to exchange addresses, snapshots and stories as
we return to Sydney where our tour ends and the memories begin! (B)
Day 20 Finish Sydney
Say a final farewell to your new friends as your trip ends this morning.
Dates &
Prices



*Prices are not guaranteed until time of booking
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Only a $200 deposit required to
book. Full payment not due until 45 days prior to
departure. (So if paying within 45 days please
pay full amount).
You are booking a shared room if you would like a single room please call 877
848-7477.
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Highlights
All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour
price!
Included
- Cairns: Scenic drive into the Atherton Hinterland to Kuranda; Visit Tjapukai
Aboriginal Cultural Centre & see Aboriginal dancing; Throw a boomerang & see spear throwing;
City sightseeing tour
- Mossman Gorge: Visit & swim in Mossman National Park; Enjoy a walk through the
rainforest to the Gorge
- Daintree National Park: Visit Cape Tribulation & its unique beach; Enjoy a swim in
Emmagen Creek; Daintree Rainforest flora & fauna boardwalk; See the mangrove swamp &
Strangler fig; Learn about Aboriginal legends of the area
- Port Douglas: Visit this luxury holiday resort town; See the magnificent
marina
- AJ Hackett Bungy Jump: Visit the famous bungy site
- Tully: Cross the Tully River, home to Australia's best white water rafting
- Townsville: City sightseeing tour
- Airlie Beach: Visit the vibrant seaside town
- Whitsundays: Transfer boat to Long Island; Stay on Long Island & enjoy all the
resort facilities; See native birdlife & wallabies
- Mackay: Visit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry
- Capricorn Coast: Visit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn; Rockhampton sightseeing
tour
- Fraser Island: Stay on this World Heritage listed island; Enjoy the scenic boat trip
to the island & enjoy the resort facilities; Stay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort
facilities
- Noosa: Visit the picturesque seaside town & beach
- Country Homestead: Stay at a traditional Country Homestead; Farm tour; Enjoy a bush
dance evening; See the farm animals & kangaroos
- Brisbane: City sightseeing tour; See the Brisbane River & Southbank; See an Opal
demonstration
- Surfers Paradise: Visit the 'Gold Coast' beaches; Visit Jupiter's Casino
- Currumbin: Visit the wildlife sanctuary, cuddle a koala and see native Australian
animals including kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, dingoes & Tasmanian devils
- Byron Bay: Visit Cape Byron, Australia's most eastern point
- Coffs Harbour: See the Big Banana & banana plantations
- Hunter Valley: See the vineyards & enjoy a wine tasting
- Sydney: See the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge; Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair
for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour; See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms
Accommodations
- 17 nights twin share accommodation
- Breakfasts (B) and Dinners (D) – as per itinerary
- Free ‘Travellers Guide’ information book
Optional Excursions
Cape Tribulation
- Cable Zip Lines Through the Rainforest
- The unique way to see the rainforest! Attach yourself to a series of 'zip lines' and
flying foxes as you move from the forest floor to high in the canopy above the rainforest on this
guided tour. Price includes insurance levy.
Cairns
- AJ Hackett Bungy Jump
- Face your fears as you jump from the famous AJ Hackett Bungy Tower! With panoramic
views out to the Great Barrier Reef it's a memorable experience. Or tackle the "Minjin" swing through
the rainforest at speeds up to 100kph. Note: Prices do not include the A$5 Personal Insurance Levy -
paid separately. www.AJHackett.com
- Scuba Diving (in addition to Outer Barrier Reef Cruise)
- Take the opportunity of a lifetime to try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. You
will be assisted with all equipment and training. Certified dives, and introductory dives for
beginners, are available. Anyone is able to participate (subject to medical conditions). Diving is
fun and easy - don't miss out!
- Skyrail
- Climb aboard for the "World's most beautiful rainforest experience". Skyrail will take
you on a cableway ride just above the Rainforest canopy between Cairns and Kuranda. On the way you
have the chance to experience the beauty and diversity of the rainforest at floor level at the two
interactive stations. Take walks, see the displays at a Rainforest Interpretive Centre or ask
questions of the expert local guides.
- Tandem Sky-Diving
- Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert
parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a
freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory
levy.
- Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
- A full day out to the Great Barrier Reef aboard a luxury high-speed catamaran.
Included in your day is snorkelling (all equipment provided), coral viewing by semi-submersible and
underwater observatory, marine biologist presentation, plus a smorgasbord lunch with seafood and
morning and afternoon teas. Includes Environmental Charge.
- Guided Horse & Quad Bike Tours
- Experience the Aussie bush and rainforest as you meander on horseback or charge by
All-Terrain Vehicle along nature trails. See the awesome views of the gorgeous coastline. For
beginners or the more experienced. Prices include Insurance Levy.
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Put your alarm on for an early start! This adventure begins at dawn and with your
help, the balloon is filled and made ready for lift off! The next half hour is peacefully spent in
mid-air, gazing at the ancient landscape of the Atherton Tablelands, formed by extinct volcanic
activity. Once you have landed, enjoy breakfast and a glass or two of cold champagne. Price includes
insurance & aviation levies.
- White Water Rafting
- Enjoy over 4 hours of white water rafting on the Tully River. Excitement builds as you
tackle world-famous rapids that take you through spectacular rainforest. A delicious lunch on the
riverbank is followed by more first-class rafting. Includes Insurance & Park levies.
Whitsundays
- Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
- Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef aboard an air conditioned, high speed catamaran. On
the journey to the Reef, enjoy complimentary tea and coffee while being shown the art of snorkelling
and watching educational reef videos. Once on the Reef, take a tour in a glass-bottomed boat and
semi-submersible, but the very best way to experience the Reef is to get amongst it by swimming and
snorkelling. If you wish, try an optional scuba dive, with instruction and equipment provided and to
top off a fantastic day, a sumptuous buffet lunch is provided. Includes Environmental
Charge.
- Whitsunday Day Sail
- Sailing the Whitsundays is a must for all visitors. This is an outstanding opportunity
to see the Whitsunday Passage in all it's glory. Sail past tropical islands on your way to the
pristine water and white sand of Whitehaven Beach (weather dependent), regarded as one of the top ten
beaches in the world. Enjoy lunch before returning late afternoon. Price includes an Environmental
Management Charge.
Fraser Island
- Whale Watching (Aug-Oct only)
- Take a half-day cruise on Hervey Bay and view the southern humpback whales returning
south to Antarctica after calving in the northern waters. Whale watching boats cruise amongst the
huge mammals allowing you to view from close range while they rest and play. Available from August to
October only.
- Fraser Island 4-Wheel Drive Adventures
- The best way to explore the world's largest sand island is by 4-wheel drive vehicle.
You have the choice of either a half or full day 4WD bus excursion, escorted by an expert local guide
who will take you to some of the best spots on the island, such as stunning Lake McKenzie, Central
Station and Wanggoolba Creek. The full day tour includes lunch.
Surfers Paradise
- Sea Kayaking
- Enjoy an expert guided sea-kayak safari, exploring the islands of the Gold Coast. This
easy paddle on the water is complemented by snorkeling, bushwalking and marine life spotting. Also
enjoy morning or afternoon tea on a secluded beach.
- Tandem Sky-Diving
- Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert
parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a
freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory
levy.
- Tiger Moth Biplane Flight
- Fly in a vintage Tiger Moth bi-plane and experience the freedom of the open cockpit
with the sound of the wind in the wires. The flight is over scenic Surfers Paradise. And for a little
extra you can take the acrobatic ride and 'loop the loop'.
- Mountain Trek 4-Wheel Drive
- A full or half-day tour of the World Heritage declared Lamington and Mount Tambourine
National Parks by 4-Wheel Drive. Explore part of the largest preserved sub-tropical rainforest in
Australia with it's unique vegetation, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. The full day tour
includes lunch.
- Bushwacker Eco Rainforest Tour
- Rainforest Discovery Bushwalk - Discover the unique ecosystem of the World Heritage
listed Springbrook National Park with an expert guide. Waterfalls and native fauna are the highlights
in this precious region. Lunch, snacks and National Park entry fees included.
- Dracula's Cabaret Restaurant
- Jump aboard Dracula's ghost train and get your fangs into a 'to-die-for' 3-course
meal. Enjoy a fast moving comedy show that features stunning contemporary rock productions,
outrageous puppets, mad skits and Gothic flair.
- Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rides
- Climb aboard a Harley Davidson and escape into the Gold Coast hinterland, for a look
at this stunningly beautiful untouched paradise. A maze of natural lush bushland with breathtaking
views of the coast awaits you. A truly classic ride.
- Learn to Surf
- Hit the waves on one of Australia's famous surf beaches. First learn the basics, then
hit the water, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the
equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!
Coffs Harbour
- Learn to Surf
- Hit the waves at our secluded surf spot! First learn the basics, before trying your
hand in the waves, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the
equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!
Shoal Bay
- Sandboard and Dune Tour
- Enjoy a guided 4WD tour of one the most unique beaches in Australia. View historical
sights and the 'Tin City' fishing village, before trying your hand at high speed sandboarding down
the enormous dunes!
- Dolphin Cruise
- Cruise the harbour of Port Stephens in search of some of the resident bottlenose
dolphins. You can even get a closer view with a swim in the boom net off the boat!
Sydney
- Oz Jet Boat
- Blast off from Circular Quay and see many of the famous sights of Sydney on a powerful
jet boat! Get the wind in your hair and feel the adrenalin pump in this 30 minute thrill ride around
the Harbour!
- Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb
- Experience the awesome thrill of seeing magnificent Sydney from the top of it's most
famous landmark! This guided tour on Sydney Harbour Bridge, including a walk on top of the famous
arch, is not to be missed.
- Group Photograph
- Our group photo is taken from Mrs Macquarie's Point, with two of the world's best
known landmarks in the background - the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It makes a
great holiday souvenir and an excellent way to remember your fellow travellers.
- AAT Day Tours
- Day trips to the Blue Mountains, the Hunter Valley vineyards or Australia's capital
city Canberra are available through AAT Kings or call 02 9700 0133 when in Sydney to
organise)
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