12-Day Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery Tour: Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Mission Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Cairns and Port Douglas | Small Group Tour

Explore the golden shores and picturesque rainforests of Queensland on a 12-day adventure from Brisbane to Cairns. Take an off-road jaunt across K'gari's (Fraser Island) dunes, sail through shimmering waters to discover the impossibly white beaches of the Whitsundays, flop and drop on the palm-fringed sands of Mission Beach, soak up the laidback energy of Airlie Beach after sunset and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Learn to hunt and use native plants from a First Nations guide, encounter crocodiles and colourful birds on a cruise through mangrove thickets and walk under heavy green canopy in the mighty Mossman Gorge. This nature-filled and culturally-rich eco escapade is designed to get you away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and straight to the natural heart of Australia's north.

【Itinerary】

Day 1: Brisbane - Noosa - Rainbow Beach
Your east coast adventure kicks off at 10am in Queensland's capital of Brisbane (Meeanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located). Your first stop is laid-back Noosa (have your bathing suit ready!), and nearby Noosa National Park where you will have the chance to spot koalas in the wild and other native Australian fauna in its natural habitat. Then head to Rainbow Beach, our overnight location for the next two nights. Explore Rainbow Beach's massive Carlo Sandblow. Take a path through eucalypt stands and rainforest to reach this huge accumulation of windblown sand known as the Cooloola sandmass. As you cross the sandblow, marvel at this ever-changing landscape, transformed by wind. From the top you'll enjoy stunning 180-degree views over Rainbow Beach and K'gari. This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland's southern coast and tomorrow you'll head out to explore it in depth, so get a good night's rest ready for a day of adventure.
Accommodation: (1 Night)
Included Activities:
Rainbow Beach - Carlo Sandblow walk
Noosa - Noosa National Park visit

Day 2: Fraser Island (K'gari) - Rainbow Beach
After breakfast, head over to stunning K'gari by ferry. In 2023 the island returned to it's tradiational name after being referred to as Fraser Island for many years. The original Butchulla people's name for the island means 'paradise' and you'll find out why soon enough. The name change is a major milestone in a long running campaign by the Butchulla people. Set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of K'gari. Start off with an adventurous drive along the 75 Mile Beach Road - one of the best coastal drives in the country. Take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) - an island icon. The lake is world famous for its turquoise colours and fine dazzling white 92% pure silica sands. Next up is Wanggoolba Creek, a pristine rainforest with prehistoric ferns and a luxuriant canopy of palms and vines. Take another dip, this time in the fresh waters of Eli Creek. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters - witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach, in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo. This evening return by ferry back to Rainbow Beach.
Accommodation: (1 Night)
Included Activities:
K'gari - Highlights tour by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Airlie Beach
This morning transfer back to Brisbane Airport before boarding a flight to Proserpine, then transfer to Airlie Beach, the hub town of the magnificent Whitsundays and home to endless beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. You'll arrive late in the afternoon, so after settling into your lodgings the evening is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll around and explore, or if the sun is still up why not visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you might feel more at home finding a seat at one of the many bars, grabbing a cocktail or two, and watching the sun set on the shimmering blue water.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Whitsunday Islands - Airlie Beach
Today is entirely free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. Words can't do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world - Whitehaven is about as impressive as a beach can get, and at 98% pure silica, it's about as white as a beach can get too. Peel your eyes away from the pristine sands and explore the colourful underwater world surrounding the Whitsundays on a snorkelling adventure. Get up close to a beautiful array of rainbow coral, playful fish and, if you're lucky, maybe even some friendly turtles. Spend another night in this lively town.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 Night)
Optional Activities:
Airlie Beach - Whitsunday Islands Full Day Cruise - AUD195
Airlie Beach - Cedar Creek Falls Waterfall Tour - AUD149
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Mission Beach
Admire the change of scenery on today's long drive as you jump into your private vehicle and head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach, where World Heritage rainforest meets the colourful Coral Sea. Be welcomed by crystal-clear waters, stunning views and a large population of cassowaries - a flightless bird that thrives in the tropical forests of north-eastern Australia. This afternoon you can enjoy plenty of free time to soak up paradise and do as you please. You might like to wind down with an optional yoga class or go for a swim in the pool. Alternatively, head out in search of the famous cassowary or simply grab a book and find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the tropical bliss.
Accommodation" Resort (1 Night) 
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Great Barrier Reef - Mission Beach
The breathtaking beauty of the world's largest coral reef is on the bucket list of many travellers who venture to this incredible corner of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is brimming with colourful coral and an amazing array of tropical fish, and today you'll get to witness its magnificence with your own eyes on a snorkelling adventure through this underwater paradise. Cruise out to this famous reef this morning as you hear a marine conservation commentary about the importance of preserving the World Heritage-listed region and how you can do your bit. Then, it's time to put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the dazzling waters, where you can freely explore a wonderfully rich ecosystem. After an incredible day, head back to the hotel, where you can freshen up and get ready for dinner. Compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions.
Accommodation: (1 Night)
Included Activities:
Great Barrier Reef - Day Cruise & Snorkelling Adventure
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Atherton Tablelands - Cairns
Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before venturing into the wet tropics of far north Queensland. Stop off en route to your next destination and discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest. Take a dip in the cool water, then continue on to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful blue-green hues in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. Next, visit the unusual yet fascinating Curtain Fig Tree, a magnificent tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 metres to the forest floor, forming a curtain-like appearance. The day draws to a close as you head to your next stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 Night)
Included Activities: Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Cairns - Kuranda - Port Douglas
This morning we'll pick up some new travellers who'll be joining us in for the next leg at around 11am. With the formalities out of the way, it's time to hit the road for Port Douglas, with a couple of stops en route to break up the journey. First up is Barron Gorge lookout that looks over a set of tumbling falls bursting from the rainforest. Spend some time ooh-ing and ah-ing at the lookout, then continue to the town of Kuranda. This little mountain village is the perfect place to grab a quick lunch (not included), before hitting the road again at around 2 pm. Settle back into the vehicle for an approximately 1.5-hour drive along the coast to Port Douglas. Take in views of cliffs covered in distinct native flora on one side and glittering blue ocean on the other, with some photo stops along the way. Arrive at the accommodation and spend a few hours settling in. In the early evening, take an orientation tour around Port Douglas. Stop at Trinity Bay lookout point to admire the perfect crescent of sand and surf. Then you're in for a real treat - hop aboard a riverboat for a guided cruise among the mangroves in search of wildlife, especially estuarine crocodiles. Finish the cruise with a gorgeous sunset, then head to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner with your fellow travellers before returning to the resort for the evening.
Accommodation: Resort (1 Night)
Included Activities:
Barron Gorge National Park - Din Din Barron Falls lookout
Port Douglas - Local Dinner
Port Douglas - Leader-lead Orientation Walk
Port Douglas - Trinity Bay lookout
Kuranda - Kuranda Village Visit
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Daintree National Park - Cape Tribulation - Port Douglas
Grab breakfast and get ready in time to leave the resort at 8am, jumping on the ferry and crossing the river into the Daintree National Park. Meet up with a local family who live and breathe the rainforest, so much so that they hosted David Attenborough's documentary crew when they were filming in the area. Spend some time learning from them about the forest, then continue exploring with a cruise along Cooper Creek. Your guide will point out crocodiles, birds and other wildlife while you glide through the water. Stop for an included lunch at a heritage restaurant smack-bang in the middle of the forest, then continue to Cape Tribulation. Take in views over the cape from a lookout, then head down to the beach for a walk and to learn about the region's history. Return to the resort for the evening, where you can grab dinner at one of the restaurants within walking distance.
Accommodation: Resort (1 Night)
Included Activities:
Daintree National Park - Cape Tribulation Lookout & Beach Walk
Daintree Rainforest - Nature Walk with Local Guide
Daintree National Park - Cooper Creek wildlife cruise
Daintree National Park - Heritage Restaurant lunch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Port Douglas
Enjoy a day to explore this tropical paradise at your own pace. There are tonnes of activities on offer today, so be sure to talk to your leader about your options when it comes to snorkelling, reef tours, and nature experiences. Your leader will also be on hand today to provide a transfer to Port Douglas town (and back) at 10 am and 6.30 pm if you want to spend the day shopping or grab dinner. If you'd prefer to move as little as possible, you could always take a day to unwind with spa treatments at the resort or chill by the pool with a book.
Accommodation: Resort (1 Night) 
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: Mossman Gorge - Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Port Douglas
Grab breakfast before leaving the resort at 8.15 am for a guided walk through the rainforest of Mossman Gorge. Work up an appetite on this gentle 1.5-hour hike, then grab morning tea (not included) before heading to Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) for an educational experience with a member of the local Kuku Yalanji community. Learn to throw a spear, which plants are edible and how Kuku Yalanji people live in harmony with the ever-shifting landscape. Enjoy lunch, then join an Aboriginal painting class in the afternoon. Learn about the significance of traditional and contemporary art and storytelling to First Nations people and leave with a small souvenir. Return to the resort in the early evening and enjoy a few free hours to relax. Grab dinner tonight with your group and toast to the beauty of the country around you.
Accommodation: Resort (1 Night)
Included Activities:
Mossman Gorge - Guided rainforest walk
Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat tour
Kuyu Kuyu (Cooya Beach) - Aboriginal Painting Class
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Port Douglas - Cairns
Enjoy breakfast and time for one last swim before a 10 am departure for Cairns. We will make one drop-off stop at Cairns Airport and then continue back to Cairns where your trip comes to an end at approximately 12pm.
Meals: Breakfast