Cairns to Sydney

32 Day Australia East Coast Adventure

Southbound (Cairns to Sydney)
Cairns to Sydney
Duration

32 Days

Cairns to Sydney
Transportation

Bus Transport Cairns to Sydney

Cairns to Sydney
Meals
22 Meals
Cairns to Sydney
Accommodation
31 Nights Accommodation
Cairns to Sydney
Camping

K’gari 4×4 Tag-A-Long Tour

Cairns to Sydney
Surf

Private Surf Camp

Cairns to Sydney
Sailing

Whitsunday Sailing Adventure

Cairns to Sydney
Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island Resort Stay

32 Day Australia East Coast Adventure

Southbound (Cairns to Sydney)

Price: From $4,499 AUD / £2,292 / €2,755

Discover the ultimate adventure on Australia’s East Coast with Travel Buddies Southbound from Cairns to Sydney. This 32 day semi-guided tour is designed for backpackers seeking freedom, exploration, new friends, and unforgettable experiences without the handholding of a fully guided tour. Starting in Cairns, this small-group adventure hits Australia’s iconic highlights and hidden gems while letting you explore at your own pace.

With just 18 spots, you’ll travel with other adventurous souls in a small and social group setting. Local Travel Buddies Reps will meet you at key points in Cairns, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Byron Bay, and Sydney to provide support, ensuring you have everything you need – without any babysitting. We’ve got your accommodation, transport, activities, and even 22 meals covered, so you can focus on living the adventure.

Once confirmed, you’ll join a dedicated WhatsApp group to connect with your new friends. This is your go-to spot for planning meetups, sharing photos, and keeping the good vibes going throughout the trip. The journey strikes the perfect balance between thrilling new adventures, top-rated tours, and fun social experiences.

Travelling south, you’ll tick off bucket-list experiences like discovering Australia’s native wildlife on Magnetic Island, sailing through the Whitsundays, and taking a scenic flight over the famous Heart Reef. Hang out with kangaroos at sunrise, challenge yourself with a surf camp, and explore K’gari (Fraser Island) in a 4WD.

No need to stress the details – we’ve handled it all. Whether you’re a solo traveller or part of a small group, this trip offers the perfect blend of flexibility and must-see experiences, and is the perfect way to meet friends on the East Coast. So, if you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, grab your spot on this Southbound Cairns to Sydney Travel Buddies tour today!

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If your dates are not available, you can build your own tour by clicking the button below.

Cairns to Sydney

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Included

  • Cairns to Sydney

    32 Day Semi-Guided East Coast Group Tour

  • Cairns to Sydney

    31 Nights Accommodation

  • Cairns to Sydney

    Coach Transport from Cairns to Sydney

  • Cairns to Sydney

    Local Reps Meet You Along The Way

  • Cairns to Sydney

    22 Meals Included

  • Cairns to Sydney

    1 Night in Cairns

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Nights Magnetic Island

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Day Whitsunday Sailing to Whitehaven Beach

  • Cairns to Sydney

    4 Nights in Airlie Beach

  • Cairns to Sydney

    2 Nights Adventure Lodge

  • Cairns to Sydney

    Eungella National Park Waterfalls and Gorge

  • Cairns to Sydney

    Cape Hillsborough Sunrise with the Wallabies

  • Cairns to Sydney

    1 Night in Rainbow Beach

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Day K’gari 4×4 Camping Tag-A-Long Tour

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Nights in Noosa

  • Cairns to Sydney

    2 Nights in Brisbane

  • Cairns to Sydney

    1 Night in Surfers Paradise

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Nights in Byron Bay

  • Cairns to Sydney

    Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk

  • Cairns to Sydney

    3 Night Surf Camp

  • Cairns to Sydney

    2 Nights in Sydney

Excluded

  • Travel Insurance compulsory April 1st 2024

  • Personal expenses

  • Any meals not indicated in the itinerary

  • Deposits required for equipment hire

  • Shuttle buses not included by providers

  • Public transport (bus, taxis, trains, uber)

  • Accommodation outside of your booking

ITINERARY

our CUSTOMER REVIEWS

MORE DETAILS

Is this a guided tour or am I responsible for my own travel?

Travel Buddies is not your typical handheld tour, meaning you will get to enjoy the best of both guided and solo travel. Travel Buddies will arrange all of your accommodation, bus sectors, and activities included in your package. However, it is your responsibility to arrive at the designated pick-up or starting points on time. If you miss an activity or bus, you will not be refunded, and you will need to handle your own travel arrangements and any related expenses. You are also then free to choose your own downtime activities and you can add on any additional tours as you go, pending availability. Although there is no official guide for this trip, you will have someone dedicated to your group in the WhatsApp chat to help out along the way.

What is a semi-guided tour, and how does it work?

A semi-guided tour combines the best of guided and solo travel. Travel Buddies handles key aspects like accommodation, transportation, and scheduled activities, but you are free to explore and experience each destination at your own pace. A Travel Buddies rep meets you at specific points to provide assistance, but there’s no full-time guide, giving you the freedom to choose your own adventures in your downtime. This allows for a blend of group and independent travel, offering flexibility with the comfort of support when needed.

Can I book accommodation for before the trip starts?

Yes, you can – just reach out to ask a travel specialist when booking your tour, who can also provide recommended activities to take part in before your tour starts. This accommodation will be separate from the rest of your Travel Buddies group, but pending availability we will be sure to book you into the same hostel as at the start of your trip, so you won’t need to move hostels.

What is the age range for Travel Buddies tours?

Anyone 18+ can join and enjoy our tours, however the average age range is between 18 and 35. This is mainly because our chosen accommodations and activities are often catered towards social backpackers between these ages.

How many people will be on the tour?

Travel Buddies tours typically have a maximum group size of 18 travellers, however our minimum number is 2. This allows for a more intimate, social experience, where everyone gets to know each other while still having the space for individual exploration.

What’s included in the tour price?

The tour price includes all accommodation, all pre-booked bus transportation, 22 meals, and key activities such as a K’gari 4WD Tag Along Tour, a Whitsundays Sailing Tour, and a 3 day Surf Camp. You’ll also have access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for daily updates and assistance from Travel Buddies reps at key locations.

How flexible is the itinerary?

The itinerary offers a balance of planned group activities and free time, allowing you to explore each destination on your own or with your new friends. While certain activities and transport are scheduled, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your own adventures during free days or in your downtime.

What are the must-see highlights on the East Coast tour?

On the East Coast tour, you’ll experience a mix of Australia’s most iconic destinations and hidden gems. Must-see highlights include sailing through the Whitsunday Islands, exploring the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkelling or diving experience, a 4WD tag-along tour on K’gari (Fraser Island), and hanging out with kangaroos on the beach at sunrise. Other standout stops include the vibrant cities of Sydney and Brisbane, the laid-back vibes of Byron Bay, and the lush Daintree Rainforest near Cairns. You’ll also visit Magnetic Island, known for its wild koalas and stunning landscapes.

How do I connect with fellow travellers before the tour begins?

You’ll be added to a dedicated WhatsApp group chat on the Friday before your departure. This group will include your fellow travellers as well as a Travel Buddies rep. The chat is a great way to connect before the trip, share excitement, and arrange meet-ups before your official start date.

When will I be added to the group chat?

On the Friday before your departure, you’ll be added to a WhatsApp group chat with your Local & Travel Buddies, giving you a chance to connect before the trip begins. This chat will provide daily updates about where you need to be, what activities you’ll be doing, and include Google Maps links for easy navigation. While there is no guide for this trip, a dedicated group chat representative will be available to help you throughout your journey. Keep in mind, it’s your responsibility to arrive at the correct pick-up or start location on time.

When will I receive official tickets and all details?

Once you’ve officially booked your spot with Travel Buddies, we will send you a confirmation email. An itinerary specific to your trip, including bus schedules and activity times, will be finalised and sent to you at least 14 days before your departure.

What wildlife can I expect to see during my East Coast tour?

On the East Coast tour, you’ll encounter iconic Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, and various species of marine life. Magnetic Island is famous for its wild koala population, and many of the national parks and nature reserves you visit offer opportunities to see native birds, reptiles, and marsupials in their natural habitats.

Will I need a special permit or licence to participate in the 4WD tour on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

No special permits or licences are required for the 4WD tour on K’gari (Fraser Island). You’ll just need a full manual regular licence to drive, and if not you can enjoy the tour as a passenger. You’ll be part of a tag-along tour, meaning a guide will lead the group, and you’ll follow along in a convoy. Your participation is fully supervised, so there’s no need to worry about driving requirements.

Are there any night-time activities or nightlife options on the tour?

Yes, the East Coast tour offers plenty of opportunities to experience Australia’s nightlife. In cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Cairns, you’ll find buzzing bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Byron Bay is famous for its laid-back beach parties and evening events. Throughout the tour, your Travel Buddies rep and fellow travellers will help you discover the best spots to enjoy the local nightlife, whether it’s a chilled-out beach bonfire or a lively bar scene.

How much spending money should I budget for the East Coast tour?

The amount of spending money you’ll need depends on your personal preferences and activities you choose to add. Most essentials are covered, such as accommodation, transport, and some meals, but you’ll need to budget for additional meals, drinks, extra activities, and souvenirs. On average, backpackers recommend budgeting around AUD $50-100 per day for extra expenses. This could vary depending on your spending habits, such as how often you eat out, participate in optional activities, or go out for nightlife.

Do I need travel insurance?

From the 1st of April 2024, travel insurance is compulsory when booking Travel Buddies. It is important to have a travel insurance policy that covers you in case you get sick or injured (COVID-19 or otherwise), lose an item, or miss your tour. At minimum, your travel insurance policy should include: medical costs, emergency evacuation, and cancellation protection. This includes adventure activities and any unexpected situations, such as illness, injury, unpredictable weather, or cancellations. If you already have travel insurance, please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.

World Nomads travel insurance provides coverage for over 150 activities. You can get a quote, file a claim, or purchase or extend your policy while travelling.

Where do I meet my group and what time do I arrive?

Each tour’s meeting point and time will be different – your official itinerary will be sent out to you at the latest 21 days before departure with information about your meeting locations. Your pre-booked hostel is available for check-in anytime from 2pm. If you arrive early, don’t worry – the hostel offers a secure area to store your bags, allowing you to explore the city during your free time. On the Friday before your departure, you will be added to a WhatsApp group chat with your fellow Travel Buddies and a Local Buddy, making it easy to arrange meet-ups before check-in. Your Local Buddy will also provide a time and location for a welcome gathering in the afternoon or evening.

What happens if any of the activities are cancelled because of the weather?

If an activity is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, we will try to reschedule it or find an alternative activity for you. If rescheduling or finding an alternative is not possible, you will receive a refund for the discounted rate paid for that activity.

What type of accommodation is included in the tour?

We’ve chosen our favourite hostels and accommodation in Australia for you to stay at while on your tour. These hostels include Gilligans Backpacker Resort, Nomads Magnetic Island, Vali Byron Bay, and more. All are highly rated and perfect for a bit of socialising. You’ll get to enjoy wonderful amenities like pools, bars, big shared kitchens, and central locations as well as excellent staff. Check out our itineraries for more information on where you will be staying in each location.

Will I be in any dorms with travellers who are not a part of my group?

For most of the trip, you will be in dorm rooms shared only with other members of your Travel Buddies group. In some circumstances you may be sharing a room with other travellers – however you will never be booked into a room alone without at least one other Travel Buddy.

Are my buses booked for me?

Yes, all of your Greyhound buses will be pre booked for you. All information regarding times and bus stop locations will be sent to you along with your itinerary and ticket details at the latest 21 days before your departure.

Once the trip finishes, is onward travel planned or do I sort that out myself?

If you’d like to continue travelling once you’ve finished your Travel Buddies trip, why not reach out to your travel agent and find out some more bucket-list destinations for any onward travel – whether it’s continuing on where you are, travelling somewhere else in the country, or even a different country – we’ve got you covered.

Cancellation & Refund Policy: Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:

Cancellations within 14 Days of the start date incur a 100 % fee.

Cancellations within 21 Days of the start date incur a 80% fee

Cancellations outside of these periods incur a 50% fee.

Please note that changes to the itinerary may occur due to weather, operator changes & cancellations. A suitable and comparable replacement will take place on such occasions.

If a third party operator cancels on the Adventure Pack, we will organise a replacement activity. If a suitable replacement cannot be found, a fee will be refunded.

*Itinerary days may change from trip to trip due to availability or transport schedules.

* Full terms and conditions here.

Is your preferred travel date with Travel Buddies unavailable? No worries!

If you’re unable to join one of our group tours, you can explore Australia or New Zealand with a custom-built trip itinerary – just check out our Build Your Own Adventure travel planner page.

Our expert team is here to help you book the adventure of a lifetime. We’ll work with you to create a flexible, custom itinerary, allowing you to handpick your activities, accommodations, and experiences. Begin when you want, where you want, and travel on your own terms.

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32 Day Australia
East Coast Adventure
Southbound (Cairns - Sydney)

If your dates are not available, you can build your own tour by clicking the button below.