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

Duration
32 Days

Transportation
Bus Transport Cairns to Sydney

Meals

Accommodation

Camping
K’gari 4×4 Tag-A-Long Tour

Surf
Private Surf Camp

Sailing
Whitsunday Sailing Adventure

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

TOUR INCLUSIONS
Included
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32 Day Semi-Guided East Coast Group Tour
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31 Nights Accommodation
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Coach Transport from Cairns to Sydney
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Local Reps Meet You Along The Way
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22 Meals Included
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1 Night in Cairns
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3 Nights Magnetic Island
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3 Day Whitsunday Sailing to Whitehaven Beach
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4 Nights in Airlie Beach
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2 Nights Adventure Lodge
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Eungella National Park Waterfalls and Gorge
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Cape Hillsborough Sunrise with the Wallabies
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1 Night in Rainbow Beach
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3 Day K’gari 4×4 Camping Tag-A-Long Tour
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3 Nights in Noosa
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2 Nights in Brisbane
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1 Night in Surfers Paradise
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3 Nights in Byron Bay
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Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk
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3 Night Surf Camp
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2 Nights in Sydney
Excluded
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Travel Insurance compulsory April 1st 2024
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Personal expenses
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Any meals not indicated in the itinerary
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Deposits required for equipment hire
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Shuttle buses not included by providers
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Public transport (bus, taxis, trains, uber)
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Accommodation outside of your booking
ITINERARY
- Cairns to Sydney

Day 1: Cairns Start
Your adventure begins in the tropical city of Cairns. Meet up with your fellow Travel Buddies at 12:00pm, get acquainted, and head out for a day of exploring. Maybe go shopping, check out the Cairns Gallery, or chill out at the relaxing lagoon. Check into your hostel for the night, Gilligans, a super social backpacker resort that offers some unbeatable nights out. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your crew and local Travel Buddies rep before grabbing a few drinks and heading out to explore the city's nightlife.
Overnight: Gilligans | Cairns
Meal(s) included: Dinner

Day 2: Magnetic Island
This morning, you’ll be travelling a few hours South to Townsville, where a ferry will be waiting to take you to Magnetic Island. A truly magnetic place, this gorgeous tropical island is known for its abundance of wild koala’s and little rock wallabies. Keep your eyes peeled at all times! Check in for three amazing nights at a beach side resort, with a pool and bar overlooking the stunning Coral sea. Kick back and relax on one of the island’s many iconic beaches, whilst you enjoy a complimentary cocktail.
Overnight: Nomads | Magnetic Island

Day 3: Magnetic Island
Today is yours to freely explore and relax, and Magnetic Island is full of exciting activities. We recommend grabbing a few mates and hiring the well-known topless ‘Barbie Cars’, to jet around the island in style. Make your way to Horseshoe Bay for some snorkelling or kayaking, then explore the charming Picnic Bay, where a stroll along the pier or a hike to Hawkings Point lookout for a stunning sunset. As the day winds down, enjoy dinner and drinks under the stars, soaking in the island's laid-back vibes.
Overnight: Nomads | Magnetic Island

Day 4: Magnetic Island
Spend another day in paradise discovering hidden bays and lush walking trails. Hike to the Forts, one of the island’s highest viewpoints, and take in the stunning scenery of the coast, forests, and giant rocks below. Keep an eye out for koala’s lounging in the trees along the way, and little rock wallabies hidden in the crevices. After your day of exploring, unwind by the pool back at the hostel, soaking up the island vibes. Rest up and prepare for your exciting journey to Cairns, where more adventure awaits tomorrow.
Overnight: Nomads | Magnetic Island

Day 5: Airlie Beach
This morning you’ll be making your way to Cairns, the final stop on your epic East Coast trip. Hop on the ferry back to the mainland before getting on the bus to Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Drop your bags off at the hostel and explore this lively tropical town. Relax at the central lagoon which overlooks the harbour, where in only a couple of days you’ll be departing for your own epic sailing adventure. Airlie Beach is known for its epic nightlife, so be sure to head out to explore the bars in town tonight.
Overnight: Nomads | Airlie Beach

Day 6: Airlie / Scenic Flight
Enjoy a free day in the beautiful Airlie Beach. We recommend taking a walk along the Bicentennial Walking Track between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, where you’ll end up at a hidden bay perfect for sunbathing.
Additional Add On Activity: Experience the Whitsunday Islands from above on a 60 minute scenic flight, where you’ll get to see Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet’s lush forest, the Great Barrier Reef, and the picture perfect Heart Reef.
Overnight: Nomads | Airlie Beach

Day 7: Whitsundays
Get excited for today because it’s time to set sail! Set off at full speed on your maxi yacht sailboat and make your way through the scenic tunnels of the Whitsunday Islands. Head towards the northern tip of Hook Island and explore the stunning Stonehaven Bay reefs, including Langford Reef. Head to another epic spot to swim, snorkel, and relax in the sun, before anchoring up for the night in a secluded bay. Enjoy dinner, drinks, and music under the stars with your group, getting ready for another day of activities.
Overnight: Whitsundays Sailboat
Meal(s) included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Whitsundays
After setting sail for another hidden bay, such as Tongue Bay or similar, spend the day discovering everything that Whitsunday Island has to offer. Enjoy a bushwalk to the northern end of Whitehaven Beach to Hill Inlet lookout, for that iconic shot of the white swirling sands. Then, visit Whitehaven Beach’s southern end, for another scenic bush walk and to discover some of the island’s hidden treasures. After a full day outdoors in nature, enjoy another evening on the deck with your group under the clear starry skies.
Overnight: Whitsundays Sailboat
Meal(s) included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Whitsundays
It’s your last day to make the most of some incredible snorkelling locations full of vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. See turtles, manta rays, fish of all kinds of colours, and maybe even a little (harmless) reef shark! If the tides allow it, you may get to visit the Ngaro Caves at Nara Inlet and discover ancient Aboriginal rock art. Finally, say goodbye to the Whitsundays and enjoy a scenic sail back to Airlie Beach, and tonight head out for an epic afterparty with your new friends and awesome crew.
Overnight: Nomads | Airlie Beach
Meal(s) included: Breakfast

Day 10: Airlie / Skydive
Back in Airlie Beach, you can spend the day hanging out, revisiting your favourite spots, or taking on any activities you haven't yet. The lagoon is the perfect place for relaxing (and recovering). In the afternoon you can enjoy more free time exploring the town and enjoy your final night with a couple of Airlie Beach bars.
Additional Add On Activity: You’re in for an afternoon of adrenaline and unbeatable views as you take to the clouds and jump from a plane with a 15000 ft Skydive!
Overnight: Nomads | Airlie Beach

Day 11: Mackay Adventures
Settle into Mackay Adventure Lodge with a complimentary welcome drink. Then, have some fun on the water with a thrilling 90 minute Wakeboarding Class at WakeHouse Australia, located on a beautiful lake right in front of your accommodation. After attempting to get your first jump on a wakeboard, spend some free time exploring Mackay city itself, known for its seafood, public art, and relaxing waterfront lagoon. Tonight, relax by the plunge pool with your tour mates and get ready for an exciting couple of days.
Overnight: Mackay Adventure Lodge

Day 12: Eungella National Park
Head deep into the rainforest at Finch Hatton Gorge to start the day's adventure. for your first bit of epic adventure for the day. Find crystal clear creeks and rocks the size of houses, before embarking on an enjoyable hike to the gorge itself, where stunning waterfalls and refreshing swim holes await. Stop at an iconic Aussie pub for a pie and a drink before heading up the range into Eungella National Park for a bit of platypus spotting - an absolute highlight of your trip. Once back at the lodge enjoy a group dinner around the lake at sunset.
Overnight: Mackay Adventure Lodge
Meal(s) included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 13: Cape Hillsborough
Head out early to Cape Hillsborough National Park for a bucket-list sunrise with kangaroos. Watch the magical colours of the sky as the friendly critters roam the shore. Enjoy a picnic breakfast and a guided and informative walk over the headland. Once back in Mackay, be sure you stack up on some snacks and drinks before jumping on the Overnight Bus. It’s your longest bus journey yet but it will be worth it, as you’ll be waking up in the next destination of your East Coast journey, Rainbow Beach and K’gari.
Overnight: Bus Journey
Meal(s) included: Breakfast

Day 14: Rainbow Beach
Arrive bright and early in Rainbow Beach, a chilled out town with one of the best sunset spots on the East Coast. Drop your bags off at the hostel, and head off to explore the sleepy beachside town. Check out the Coloured Sands strip, where towering cliffs show off their naturally colourful surfaces. Walk to the Carlo Sandblow for a breathtaking sunset, and chill out at your hostel's pool. Tonight, make sure you’re ready and packed for an epic adventure, as the next day you’re heading off to K’gari in your 4×4 jeeps.
Overnight: Freedom | Rainbow Beach

Day 15: K’gari Tag Along
It’s time to visit K’gari! An Island full of adventure and a highlight of your trip. Drive along 75 mile beach, blast the tunes, and enjoy the wonderful scenery. Travel to the SS Maheno Shipwreck to learn a bit about the history of this famous icon of the island. After lunch, spend the afternoon at Eli Creek, the natural lazy river. Chill out on floaties as you slowly drift through the relaxing creek. Head out for another drive towards your Dingo safe campsite before dark – just in time for a fun and relaxing evening of dinner and drinks.
Overnight: K’gari Camping
Meal(s) included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 16: K’gari Tag Along
It’s up and out early this morning for another day of adventure. On today’s agenda, you’ll be visiting some incredible spots - Wanggoolba Creek in the lush rainforest of Central Station, the clearest and brightest blue freshwater Lake Mckenzie, and Champagne Pools, surrounded by the perfect backdrop of the turquoise ocean. Have a go at driving 4WD along the long stretches of beach between each destination. Then, it’s back to camp to help with dinner prep and an evening hanging out with your group.
Overnight: K’gari Camping
Meal(s) included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 17: K’gari Tag Along
It’s time to pack up camp and say goodbye to the dingoes, but there’s still some sights left to see before heading back to the mainland. Drive through more rainforests and rugged tracks and head to Lake Wabby, a green oasis in the middle of the desert. Enjoy a refreshing swim and some time in the sun, then start making your way back along 75 Mile Beach to the barge. Once you’re back in Rainbow Beach, you’ll head straight South to Noosa, where you can enjoy a post tour night out with your group at the iconic KB’s bar.
Overnight: Nomads | Noosa
Meal(s) included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 18: Noosa
Get ready to fully explore Noosa, known for its beautiful beaches and lush forests, situated on the appropriately named Sunshine Coast. Check in to your hostel, drop down your bags, and explore the beautiful beachside town. Here you can chill out on the glorious beaches and bask in the sun, or join a surf lesson to learn to catch some epic beginner waves. Head out to explore the surrounding National Parks and lovely trails, like the Paperbark Forest trail, before embarking on another fun night out with your crew.
Overnight: Nomads | Noosa

Day 19: Noosa / Everglades
Today, why not check out Noosa's hidden Fairy Pools, found along the Noosa headland’s stunning coastal walk. Make sure you keep looking up, as it’s also home to some sleepy Koalas.
Additional Add On Activity: Take a trip to the stunning Noosa Everglades! Canoe through a stunning serene river bursting with rare animals and plant species. Pop into the local brewery to try a few local beers produced with fresh water from the Everglades’ underground reservoirs.
Overnight: Nomads | Noosa

Day 20: Brisbane
Spend your final morning in Noosa relaxing on the beach, going for another round of surf lessons, or discovering the Noosa National Park, if you didn’t get a chance to yesterday. Then it’s off to Brisbane, capital of the Sunshine State, known for its abundant parks, excellent shopping, and foodie lifestyle. There is something here for everyone to enjoy. Meet up with our Brisbane Travel Buddies rep for an orientation of the city before checking into your hostel, then head out to enjoy a night of exploring the vibrant bars and lively streets.
Overnight: YHA | Brisbane

Day 21: Brisbane / Australia Zoo
Feel free to get in touch with your creative side in Brisbane today with a visit to the museums and art galleries, situated next to a beautiful expansive parkland with its very own man made beach to cool down in.
Additional Add On Activity: Hop on the Croc Express to the Australia Zoo, home of The Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin! Meet all kinds of animals in the world’s most interactive conservation destination, and watch the world famous Croc feeding show for a bit of thrill.
Overnight: YHA | Brisbane

Day 22: Surfers Paradise
Find a trendy cafe for breakfast and make the most of your final morning in Brisbane with a walk along the riverbank. Then it’s time to hop on the bus for a short journey to Surfers Paradise, home to epic surf, craft breweries and some of Australia’s best shopping. Embrace the city life with a cocktail at a rooftop bar, stack up on some city essentials in the shopping centres, snap a pic with the famous Surfers Paradise sign, and head to the never-ending beach that’s right on your doorstep for a sunset dip or even to catch a wave or two.
Overnight: Bunk | Surfers Paradise

Day 23: Byron Bay
This morning, after saying goodbye to Surfers Paradise, you’ll hop on the bus and head to the beachside town of Byron Bay. Check into your luxury Byron Bay accommodation for the next 3 nights before heading out to explore. Expect an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as picturesque white sanded beaches. Be sure to hit up some of the top sights while you’re at it, such as the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the Arakwal National Park, or The Farm Byron Bay for a top rated farm to table meal.
Overnight: Vali | Byron Bay

Day 24: Byron / Kayaking
Enjoy a beautiful day in the Bay, with plenty of gorgeous beaches, quirky cafes, and fabulous shops to keep you entertained. Tonight, discover iconic cocktail bars such as The Loft or The Balcony, then head to the Beach Hotel for dinner and some live music.
Additional Add On Activity: Today the dolphins are calling! Join a Kayaking with Dolphins tour to see these wonderful and curious creatures up close in the turquoise bay as they play around in the waves.
Overnight: Vali | Byron Bay

Day 25: Byron Bay
Keen to head to Australia’s most Easterly Point? Meet your local Byron Bay buddy for a sunset stroll along the Cape Byron Walking Track up to the iconic lighthouse. Expect 360 degree views of the Bay's stunning beaches with a jaw-dropping sunset to top it off! Watch the surfers go by and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles and whales when it's the season for it. Tonight we highly recommend submitting a song request at Byron’s famous duelling Piano Bar at the Northern Hotel to start, before heading to Woody’s to dance the night away.
Overnight: Vali | Byron Bay

Day 26: Spot X Surf Camp
Arrive bright and early at the Spot X Surf Camp in Arrawarra for an epic 3 days of learning to catch a wave in an idyllic location. Meet the Spot X crew, check into your beachside accommodation, and head out for your first surf lesson at a beautiful beach with awesome beginner waves. The crew will be with you every step of the way, catering to your surfing experience. In your free time, join in on one of the many extra activities such as kangaroo trekking, river kayaking, or rafting, or just take a stroll along the secluded beaches.
Overnight: Spot X | Arrawarra
Meal(s) included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 27: Spot X Surf Camp
Rise and shine! It’s day 2 of an epic Surf Camp adventure. A delicious breakfast is served from 7am to 9am daily. Morning surf lessons begin at 7:30am and last two to three hours, depending on the size of your group. A much needed lunch will be served from 12 to 1 pm. In the afternoon you can unwind, take in the camp’s stunning surroundings, bask in the sun on a quiet beach, or watch a movie in the TV room. Dinner is served at 6pm, which leads into an evening campfire, sharing stories and watching the stars.
Overnight: Spot X | Arrawarra
Meal(s) included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 28: Spot X Surf Camp
It’s your last day at Spot X’s perfect beachside surf camp, so make the most of it. Enjoy another surf lesson and see where you’ve improved in the last 3 days. Relax on the beach and explore some more, or if you haven’t had the chance, why not partake in one of the extra activities. The Kangaroo trekking is a highlight - where you visit the local driving range home to about 400 wild Kangaroos. Make sure to bring your camera! Finally, enjoy another evening around the campfire with some chilled entertainment.
Overnight: Spot X | Arrawarra
Meal(s) included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 29: Overnight Bus
Squeeze in one more surf lesson this morning and check out how much you’ve improved over the last few days - you may be surprised. Check out of your accommodation, enjoy some lunch, and say farewell to the Spot X crew. You’ve got some free time this afternoon before embarking on the next leg of your journey, so spend some free time in the town, on the beach, walking the headland or exploring the nature reserve. Grab your snacks and download your tunes, tonight you’ll be on the overnight bus from Arrawarra to Sydney.
Overnight: Bus Journey
Meal(s) included: Breakfast

Day 30: Sydney
Arrive bright and early in Sydney and enjoy the next couple of days exploring the iconic city with epic landmarks. Meet up with your Sydney local rep for an orientation of the city. Why not start out with the famous Sydney Opera House, where you’ll find beautiful views of the harbour and bridge. Head to one of many local restaurants for lunch and a cold drink, before taking a stroll in the city’s lush botanic gardens. Tonight, head out and make the most of Sydney’s awesome nightlife, with lively bars and fancy clubs to enjoy.
Overnight: Nomads | Sydney

Day 31: Sydney
Today is yours to enjoy getting to know Sydney a little better. An absolute must do free activity is to hike the stunning cliff top coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee. The trail brings you past parks, bays, and rock pools, with plenty of opportunities to go for a dip. Stop off at a beachside cafe overlooking the famous Bondi Beach for lunch, before returning to the city. As it’s your last full day on tour, be sure to fit in any last minute bucket list activities and enjoy a final night out with your Travel Buddies crew.
Overnight: Nomads | Sydney

Day 32: Finish
It’s your final morning on tour after an incredible month of travels. Grab some breakfast with your group, exchange numbers and some final memories together, and contemplate what’s next for you on your journey. Maybe hop across the Tasman Sea and check out our 24 Day New Zealand Adventure.
We hope you’ve had the best time travelling the wonderful East Coast, full of unforgettable days and hilarious nights out, as well as new friends for life.
our CUSTOMER REVIEWS













MORE DETAILS
- FAQS
- TERMS & CONDITIONS
- Travel Date Unavailable?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.