Start: Sydney Finish: Cairns
Duration: 15 Nights
Physical rating: 3 - Average
Special diets catered: Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour code: 24225
Tour operator: G Adventures
Group size: 16 - 20
Age range: Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Tour operated in: English
From: $2932 $2873
Extra tourhub saving: $59
Now's the time to explore Australia on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Turn your "must-do" list into "been there, done all of that" on this 16-day tour up Australia’s East Coast. This classic Sydney-to-Cairns route introduces you to both sides of modern Australia — the bright lights of the big city and the raw beauty of the Outback. You’ll get to try your hand at everything from surfing to sailing and snorkelling. And when you travel in small groups, you'll get to meet the locals and experience their land as they do. That amazing new frontier you’ve been looking for? Here it is.
Location: Sydney
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Wake Up - Sydney (or similar)
Meals: No Meals
Arrive at any time. There's nothing quite like a night out to get people comfortable with one another. Hit up Side Bar, connected to where you will be staying at the Wake Up Hostel in Sydney. This is the liveliest bar around, sporting a huge young and local crowd. There’s always non-stop action with the entertainment so get ready to have a few drinks, let your hair down, and dance until you drop!
There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. If you arrive early enough, head down to the harbour's edge to 'The Rocks' historic area and the Opera House.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Immerse yourself in all things Sydney with a free day to explore the oldest and biggest Australian city. Glide along the harbour on a ferry and gaze at the white sails of the Opera House gleaming in the sun. Get lost as you wander the narrow, cobbled laneways and take in Sydney’s fabled history. Catch some rays on the sand at Bondi Beach or duck out of your comfort zone and surf the green-barrel breaks just off shore, and perhaps treat yourself to a scenic flyover tour of the city. The choice is yours so get as adventurous as you like in the "Land Down Under"!
Opt to pre-book the "Sydney Bridge Climb" or "Sydney Adrenaline Bundle" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include one of these optionals on your tour.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY There's lots to do and see in Sydney – make the most of a free day to explore.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Location: Sydney, Arrawarra
Accommodation: Spot X Surf Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Wave goodbye to Sydney as the group travels to Spot X Surf Camp, hidden away in beautiful Arrawarra along the North Coast. Get ready for cuteness overload because you’ll be stopping at the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie on the way to learn all about the conservation efforts being made to protect this unique native Australian animal. Snap a couple photos for the 'gram' and enjoy the coastal scenery that awaits.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Koala Hospital, learn about these unique creatures and even adopt your very own Koala!
Location: Arrawarra
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Spot X Surf (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As the sun rises along the ocean hit the beach for an included surf lesson with Spot X. Located in one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country they are completely devoted to the surf lifestyle. Spend some time in the sun and laughing in the waves with your travel tribe before heading out on a kangaroo trek. Then it’s time for a free afternoon to enjoy your surroundings. Soak up views of Solitary Islands Marine Park, embark on a rockpool scramble to look for fish traps and sea creatures, or wander over to Mullawarra beach for a picnic. Your only real job today is to have fun!
ACTIVITY: Observe kangaroos (and their joeys) in their natural habitat during an hour-long trek through the coastal bushland around Arrawarra. Along the way, pass Indigenous midden sites with fossilized shells. Don't forget your camera!
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Head out for a swim, rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board, or simply chill on the beach. The afternoon is yours!
ACTIVITY: Take to the waves with an included surf lesson at the secret Spot X. Learn to paddle, stand, and ride a wave into shore! With top-notch instructors in the water, get ready to ride the swells like a local in no time.
Location: Arrawarra, Byron Bay
Accommodation Name: Wake Up! Byron Bay (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure through lush national parks, stunning beaches, rolling green hills, and small but vibrant towns full of charm and authentic Australian culture as the group drives from Arrawarra to Byron Bay. Make a stop at Cape Byron Lighthouse to see the easternmost point in the country. If luck is on your side you may glimpse migrating whales and pods of resident dolphins. Grab lunch where you wish before arriving in the surf and arts town of Byron Bay.
After breakfast, travel the coastal road to the stunning surf and arts town of Byron Bay. Enjoy plenty of free time to experience the hippie surfing town.
ACTIVITY: Cape Byron Lighthouse is 3km (1.9 mi) northeast of Byron Bay. The popular white structure emits the most powerful light of all working lighthouses in the country, and it's also located at the most easterly point of the Australian continent. Head up to the top of the tower to scan the ocean for whales (the Southern Cross University's Whale Research Centre is located here).
Location: Byron Bay
Welcome to Byron Bay… the city of surfing and sunbathing! The day is yours to explore; walk along hidden beaches, play in the surf, grab a massage, or simply hang out at the Byron Bay Brewery and people watch. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Go skydiving, try sea kayaking, or go on a dolphin watch. There’s so much to see and do from lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills to small unique villages totally stuck in the ‘60s like Nimbin and local markets teeming with creativity. At the end of it all hop on that surfboard for one last ride because as the locals say, “You haven’t surfed until you’ve surfed Byron Man!"
The free time is yours to explore. Walk along the long stunning beach, play in the surf, or simply hang out at the Byron Bay Brewery and people watch. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Go skydiving, try sea kayaking, or go on a dolphin watch. Opt to pre-book the "Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Do as much or as little as you like in this chilled-out beach town.
Location: Byron Bay, Brisbane
Accommodation Name: Brisbane City YHA (or similar)
Venture north with your group to the capital of Queensland; Brisbane. Pass by national parks, mountains, surfy enclaves, and endless stretches of sand bordering brilliant blue water. Feeling hungry? Grab a delicious pastry creation from the famous Yatala Pie shop, serving hungry patrons for 130 years. Word of advice… make sure those cameras are charged and ready. Experience a night out with the group in Queensland's capital.
Additional Information: Stop along the way to Brisbane for a quick break at one of the many surf spots such as the Gold Coast.
Location: Brisbane, Noosa River
Accommodation Name: Noosa Everglades (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Escape the city as you journey north up the coast to the Noosa Everglades. Get ready for an evening surrounded by stunning wilderness in one of the most pristine wetlands in the world. Relax as you cruise along this "river of mirrors" and chow down with a delicious Aussie BBQ lunch before further exploring your surroundings. Grab a kayak to get up and personal with the dark, tranquil waters as you paddle through ancient landscapes and sub-tropical rainforest. Then relax around the lake or hike one of the trails to further appreciate the serenity that seeps from this unique landscape.
Additional Information: Please note that due to operational reasons, this night and the following night may be reversed. All activities and inclusions will remain the same.
ACTIVITY: Relax on a cruise along the pristine Noosa River and into the dark, tranquil, mirrored waterways of the Noosa Everglades. Enjoy a delicious Aussie BBQ lunch at historic Harry’s Hut – a relic of the early timber cutting days. Explore, take a swim in the pristine waters, photograph the abundant wildlife, or simply relax in this unique natural environment.
ACTIVITY: Get up close and personal with the Noosa Everglades. Enjoy approx 1.5 hours paddling through the mirrored waterways of the everglades, taking in the ancient landscapes, sub-tropical rainforest, and serenity of the area. Journey back to the base and enjoy an included lunch.
ACTIVITY: Stay at the edge of the stunning Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglade systems in the world. Take it easy and relax around the lake, or hike one of the nearby trails.
Location: Noosa Everglades, Fraser Island
Accommodation Name: Fraser Island Beach Camp Eco Retreat (or similar)
On your mark...get set.... go! Travel by private vehicle and ferry with your group to reach Fraser Island; for a true Aussie experience. Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world and the only known place where rainforest grows on sand. Think pure paradise; with striking blue lakes, crystal clear creeks, giant dunes, and dense rainforests in a place truly unlike any other. Once on the island the group will go for a 4x4 tour, driving along over 100km of beach to get a sense of your surroundings. Then take a swim in Lake Mckenzie, or be on the lookout for wild Dingoes (this is one of the few places in Australia where you are able to see them).
Once on the island, enjoy a 4x4 tour of Fraser Island, driving along over 100km of beach. Go for a swim in Lake McKenzie, and enjoy a rainforest walk along the way.
Additional Information: While on Fraser Island, main luggage will be stored in a secure storage facility. Each person will need to pack an overnight bag with max weight of 5kg, as access to main luggage will not be available again until the next day. This is due to luggage capacity restrictions in 4x4 vehicles.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
ACTIVITY: Embark on a private excursion taking in the highlights of this amazing island including Lake McKenzie and Pile Valley.
Location: Fraser Island, Airlie Beach
Accommodation: Overnight Train (airplane seats)
Your second day on Fraser Island comes with more free time to enjoy this paradise. In the morning continue exploring by 4x4 along wide stretches of pearly white beach and then duck into the shade of the forest to really appreciate the peaceful solitude that surrounds you. In the afternoon board an overnight train (get ready to post some ‘grams) north to Airlie Beach, where more sand, sun, and fun await you.
FREE TIME: Enjoy the natural beauty of Fraser Island.
TRANSPORT: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Location: Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands
Accommodation: Whitsunday Islands Boat (or similar)
Meals: Dinner
Awake as the train pulls to a stop in your next destination. Hop out, stretch those legs, and head out for brunch with the group in Airlie Beach; home to the Whitsunday Islands and located on the Great Barrier Reef. Then head to the marina and embark on a maxi yacht which will be your home for the next two nights. Set sail to a secluded cove (we’re so excited for you) in the Whitsunday islands where you will drop anchor for the night. Our only advice; try not to pinch yourself too many times because no, this is not a dream, it is reality and we want you to experience it as best you can!
After arriving in Airlie Beach and some time for brunch, head to the marina and embark on a maxi yacht which will be our home for the next two nights. Set==---==== sail to a secluded cove in the Whitsunday Islands where you will drop anchor for the night.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard a speedy racing yacht (and hang on to your hat).
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Board a maxi-yacht formerly used to circumnavigate the globe, and get used to being on the water. Lend a hand hoisting the sails or just sit back and enjoy the breeze.
Location: Whitsunday Islands
Remember those stranded-on-a-deserted island fantasies that we all had growing up? (no, just us?) Either way get ready to relive that castaway dream as you hike to an island lookout over Whitehaven Beach (one of the most famous beaches in the world) and enjoy the views of powdery sand and the Coral Sea’s azure waters. You probably won’t ever want to leave. And you haven’t even gone below the surface yet! After some free time on the beach basking in the sun you’ll spend time as a group learning about the community efforts to protect and restore coral in the Great Barrier Reef before heading out to snorkel; over a Planeterra-supported coral garden. Then it’s off to another secluded tropical island spot where the group will anchor for the night. (Skinny dipping anyone?)
The sailing route today allows us to follow part of Captain Cook's route up through the Whitsunday Islands. Planeterra has partnered with Reef Ecologic, a nonprofit specialized in creating innovative solutions to challenges facing coral reefs. In the Whitsundays they are working to engage the community and travellers to restore the reef following the 2017 cyclone. Reef Ecologic's new coral gardens in the Whitsundays foster natural coral fragments to be replanted into the reef for a healthy marine environment.
Additional Information: Please note that snorkelling over the Reef Ecologic Coral Restoration project may occur on the first or last day of your Whitsunday Islands excursion, if weather conditions or tides are not ideal on this day.
ACTIVITY: Set off towards Whitehaven Beach, and hike to a lookout over the beautiful white-sand beach and shallow turquoise waters off its coast. Take advantage of the included snorkel gear, throw on a mask and see what lives in the Great Barrier Reef.
ACTIVITY: Learn about community efforts to protect and restore coral in the Great Barrier Reef before heading out to snorkel over a Planeterra-supported coral garden. Planeterra has partnered with Reef Ecologic, a nonprofit specialized in creating innovative solutions to challenges facing coral reefs. In the Whitsundays they are working to engage the community and travellers to restore the reef following the 2017 cyclone. Reef Ecologic's new coral gardens in the Whitsundays foster natural coral fragments to be replanted into the reef for a healthy marine environment.
Location: Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach
Accommodation Name: Base Airlie Beach (or similar)
Expected forecast today is; peace, serenity, paradise, and lots of gorgeous views. You may want to pull out your phone or camera every chance you get, but try to refrain and simply enjoy the moment as you and the group continue sailing through the picturesque backdrop of the Whitsunday Islands. Swim, snorkel, or lounge on the boat deck before sailing to the resort town of Airlie Beach for a night on the town with your best adventure buds! Live it up because let’s face it, how often are you really in this kind of paradise?
After three days at sea, we sail back to Airlie Beach for a night on land in a local beach hostel. Feel free to relax by the pool at the end of the day.
ACTIVITY: It's the final half-day at sea! Enjoy sailing through the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands in the morning, passing by secluded coves and tiny islands. After some free time, sail in style back into Airlie Beach.
Location: Airlie Beach, Cairns
Accommodation Name: Cairns Central YHA (or similar)
With an early morning departure, admire the scenery on the train ride north to Cairns.
Additional Information: Get ready for an early morning wake-up today for the journey to Cairns. Make sure to stock up on snacks and bring personal entertainment – it may be one of the longer travel days on this trip, but it's worth it to reach The Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Location: Cairns
Cairns is quite the place to visit if you love warm weather (it would be headline news for the city’s temperature to drop much below 20°C (68°F)) and want to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Take advantage of a free day to book one of the many optional activities that will get you out in nature’s playground. Snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef, get that adrenaline pumping by whitewater rafting, skydiving, or bungee jumping and cap it all off on a Big Night Out In Cairns with your travel tribe. Drinks all around are well deserved after spending the day escaping your comfort zones.
Opt to pre-book the "Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
Additional Information: Please be aware that if you decide to book the optional scuba diving activity in the Great Barrier Reef and are taking any prescription medications, you will need a doctor’s release giving you permission to dive.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Get out and explore Cairns and beyond.
ACTIVITY: Release your inner break dancer and go wild tonight in Cairns with your G travel family. Get ready to bust a move and have the time of your life (table top dancing anyone?) Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
Depart at any time. We know it's time for this tour to end, but what if you don't want to go home just yet? (We would want to stay too... trust us). Well the good news is you can keep exploring Australia by extending or adding on to your trip... so let the adventures continue.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow USD365-475 for meals not included.
Your Big Night Out Moment: Cairns
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Hostels (11 nts, multi-share with 4-8 people), overnight train (1 nt), maxi yacht (2 nts, open cabin multi-share), cabin (1 nt). All nights are multi-share on this trip.
Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson, Spot X
Noosa Everglades overnight experience
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Fraser Island 4x4 excursion
Noosa Everglades canoeing excursion
Entrance fees to Cooloola Recreation Area and Fraser Island in Great Sandy NP
Your Discover Moment: Cairns
Whitehaven Beach visit
Your Discover Moment: Byron Bay
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Sydney orientation walk
Whitsunday Islands sailing excursion (3 days)
Your G for Good Moment: Reef Ecologic Coral Restoration, Whitsunday Islands
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Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Your G for Good Moment: Reef Ecologic Coral Restoration, Whitsunday Islands Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson, Spot X Your Discover Moment: Byron Bay Your Discover Moment: Cairns Your Big Night Out Moment: Cairns. Sydney orientation walk. Fraser Island 4x4 excursion. Entrance fees to Cooloola Recreation Area and Fraser Island in Great Sandy NP. Noosa Everglades overnight experience. Noosa Everglades canoeing excursion. Whitsunday Islands sailing excursion (3 days). Whitehaven Beach visit. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Please note that most 18-to-Thirtysomethings accommodation in Australia is multi-share. For more info, see our Trip Details.
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with <a href="https://www.planeterra.org">Planeterra Foundation</a>. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in Melbourne. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Office and after office hours emergency number From outside Australia: +61 432 705 621 From within Australia: 0432 705 621 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local operations manager, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (required) • Hand sanitizer (required) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) • Rubber gloves Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
Our vans are mini-coaches. Occasionally with smaller group sizes we will use smaller, equally comfortable 13-seater vehicles. All mini-coaches tow a trailer for luggage and camping equipment (when needed). All groups have one CEO/Driver. The vehicles are factory built with comfortable seats and air-conditioning. It is mandatory to wear a seatbelt while riding in our vehicles.
Max 20, avg 16
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
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For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups. As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Learn to surf at Spot X Surf Camp, bliss out in famous Byron Bay, island hop through the Whitsundays, overnight at a camp in the Noosa Everglades
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. A valid passport and visa is required. For some nationalities, the visa can be issued by your Travel Agency or the Australian Embassy via Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). To apply for an ETA online, travellers must hold a passport from one of the following countries: - Brunei - Darussalam - Canada - Hong Kong - Japan - Malaysia - Singapore - South Korea - United States More information about the ETA and how to apply can be found here: https://www.eta.immi.gov.au/ETA/etas.jsp If you do not hold a passport from any of the above countries, you cannot apply for an ETA online. You may be eligible to apply for an ETA through a travel agent, airline or an Australian visa office. Alternatively, you may be eligible to apply for other types of electronic visitor visas. See: www.immi.gov.au
Multi-share accommodation, on a single-sex basis (typically 4-6 people per room), is very common in Australia and is the way you will be spending most of your nights. We have specifically chosen unique accommodations to give local flavour to your trip. COUPLES: Please note that due to the types of accommodation used in Australia, couples will likely be split into separate rooms where we use multi-share hostels. Pending availability, couples may be able to pay extra while on tour to have their own room in some destinations. PRE/POST ACCOMMODATION: If booking additional nights before or after your tour, accommodation will be multi-share on a mixed gender basis.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. <a href="/travel-resources/safety/">Read more about travel safety</a> for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Please note that most included breakfasts will consist of cereal, milk, bread and spreads, juice, tea and instant coffee. Having a simple breakfast together most days allows us the flexibility to get on the road early and get from point A to B all that much faster.
Private vehicle, train, maxi yacht, 4x4 vehicle, ferry, walking.
1) COMBO TRIP Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments. 2) Note that only 1 piece of luggage and 1 carry on are allowed on the Queensland train. If you exceed this allowance, AUD15 may be charged upon boarding the train. 3) Please be aware that wifi and internet access is not as readily available in Australia as in other parts of the world. There are often additional charges to connect to the internet, and speeds may be slower than what you are used to. 4) Over public holidays in Australia and New Zealand (such as Christmas, New Years Day, Easter, and Anzac Day) there may be some limitations of services and disruptions to schedules. In general our tours still operate effectively over public holidays, but there may be closures of optional activities and restaurants, and slight itinerary adjustments in order to provide all tour inclusions. 5) Scuba Diving Optional Activity Please be aware that if you decide to book the optional scuba diving activity in the Great Barrier Reef and are taking any prescription medications, you will need a doctor’s release giving you permission to dive.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
By Taxi: $40-$50, approximately 15km from the joining hotel and should take no more than 30 minutes. By Shuttle Bus: $16 per person, look for 'Sydney Airporter' bus desk between exit gates B & C. Alternatively, the 'Airport Connect' service in the same location. By Train: $18.70 per person. The train station is under the airport terminal and takes approximately 20-25 minutes to get into the city. Hop off the train at Central Station. The hostel is located across the road from Central Station, on the Pitt Street side of George Street. Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time. Your CEO will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle. You will need a smaller bag for the Whitsunday Island overnight excursion, as we will leave big bags on the mainland due to space constraints.
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
The Rocks - The Rocks Neighbourhood Visit (Free) Sydney - Sydney Opera House Visit (37-165AUD per person) - Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb - Sydney Adrenaline Bundle Coogee Beach - Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach Coastal Walk Arrawarra - Swimming Byron Bay - Skydiving (310-369AUD per person) - Whale Watching (89AUD per person) - Hinterland and Minyon Falls Tour (139AUD per person) - Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking - Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos Fraser Island - Fraser Island Flight (75AUD per person) Whitsunday Islands - Whitsunday Islands Snorkelling (Free) Cairns - Skydiving (310-400AUD per person) - Skyrail & Kuranda Scenic Railway (116-171AUD per person) - Bungee Jumping (179AUD per person) - Whitewater Rafting (138-210AUD per person) - Minjin Swing (129AUD per person) Great Barrier Reef - Great Barrier Reef Diving from Cairns (245-289AUD per person) - Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling from Cairns (174AUD per person)
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It is not customary in New Zealand or Australia to tip service providers, but if you do experience outstanding service it is good to do so. Such service would only usually be in places like quality restaurants and it would be very rare that you would tip more than 10%. Unless specifically asked to do so at the time (by your CEO) - do not tip your local guides. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer did an outstanding job, you may consider a small tip - but it certainly isn't expected.
The Australian currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Australia and can be used to purchase small and large items. When purchasing products or services with a foreign credit card you may be charged additional fees by your credit card company for foreign purchases. Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Both Visa and Master Cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work check with your bank before you travel. A visit to an ATM can be arranged on Day 1 and other days of the trip. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of local currency (preferably smaller bills, 5's, 10's and 20's), traveller’s cheques and credit cards is best. Currency exchange is best obtained prior to travel or at the airport, currency exchange is easy to find in Australia in the gateway cities and most banks do accommodate. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
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Places Available
Multiple Room Types Multiple room types available. Choose your preferred room type when you book.
Extra TourHub Saving: $59
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Extra TourHub Saving: $60