Reefs and Rainforests 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. Length: 16 days Resort, Country Homestead, Eco Lodge, Hotel, Surf Village Accommodations: as per itinerary Meals: Dinner, Breakfast as per itinerary Sightseeing: Visit Australia's East Coast Transportation: Modern Coach Next Tour: June 26, 2008 Itinerary 1. Day 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. 2. Day 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.
3. Day 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. 4. Day 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! 5. Day 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. 6. Day 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. 7. Day 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! 8. Day 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. 9. Day 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! 10. Day 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! 11. Day 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.
12. Day 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! 13. Day 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. 14. Day Shoal Bay to Sydney Highlights Today 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! All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price! Included Cairns: Scenic drive into the Atherton Hinterland to Kuranda Cairns: Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre & see Aboriginal dancing Cairns: Throw a boomerang & see spear throwing Cairns: City sightseeing tour Mossman Gorge: Visit & swim in Mossman National Park Mossman Gorge: Enjoy a walk through the rainforest to the Gorge Daintree National Park: Visit Cape Tribulation & its unique beach Daintree National Park: Enjoy a swim in Emmagen Creek Daintree National Park: Daintree Rainforest flora & fauna boardwalk Daintree National Park: See the mangrove swamp & Strangler fig Daintree National Park: Learn about Aboriginal legends of the area Port Douglas: Visit this luxury holiday resort town Port Douglas: 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 Whitsundays: Stay on Long Island & enjoy all the resort facilities Whitsundays: See native birdlife & wallabies Mackay: Visit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry Capricorn Coast: Visit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn Capricorn Coast: Rockhampton sightseeing tour Fraser Island: Stay on this World Heritage listed island Fraser Island: Enjoy the scenic boat trip to the island & enjoy the resort facilities Fraser Island: Stay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort facilities Noosa: Visit the picturesque seaside town & beach Country Homestead: Stay at a traditional Country Homestead Country Homestead: Farm tour Country Homestead: Enjoy a bush dance evening Country Homestead: See the farm animals & kangaroos
Brisbane: City sightseeing tour Brisbane: See the Brisbane River & Southbank Brisbane: See an Opal demonstration Surfers Paradise: Visit the 'Gold Coast' beaches Surfers Paradise: 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 Sydney: Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour Sydney: See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms Accomodations 15 nights in special Contiki accommodation based on quad-share Breakfasts (B) and Dinners (D) as per itinerary. Contiki Difference Experienced Tour Manager and Driver Modern air-conditioned coach Free Contiki Travellers Guide information book Free Contiki document wallet. Optional Excursions Cape Tribulation Cable Zip Lines Through the Rainforest (A$80) 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 (A$125 (Bungy); A$69 (Minjin)) 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) (From A$70) 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 (From A$38) 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 (From A$260) 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 (From A$150)
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 (Horse Riding: A$105; Quad Bikes: A$125) 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 (A$180) 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 (From A$160) 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 (A$185) 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 glassbottomed 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 (A$130) 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) (A$95) 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 (Full Day A$145, Half Day A$80) 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 (A$70) 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 (From A$315) 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 (A$200)
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 (Full Day A$120, Half Day A$80) 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 (A$110) 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 (From A$70) 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 (From A$48) 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 (A$42) 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 (A$50) 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 (A$45) 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 (A$21) 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 (A$55) 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 (From A$179) 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 (A$15) 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 (From A$59) 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)