7 Day Brisbane to Cairns Tour with Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef

Days
7
DEPARTS
5:00 pm
RETURNS
10:00 am
PRICE from
$4175 AUD

The 7 Day Brisbane to Cairns with Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef Comfort Tour is a relaxed yet enriching journey along Australia’s tropical east coast. From cityscapes and island getaways to rainforest retreats and coral wonders, this small-group adventure reveals Queensland’s best-loved treasures in comfort and style. You’ll travel from Brisbane to Cairns, discovering vibrant towns, lush landscapes and marine life along the way.

Operates

SUN

Tour Map

Age Restriction
From 12 years
Bus Capacity
Up to 16 passengers
Tour Language
English

Highlights

  • Welcome Evening in Brisbane – Join us for a guided city walk and group dinner in the sunshine capital.

  • Fly to the Whitsundays – Fly to Airlie Beach and enjoy free time in this palm-lined tropical paradise.

  • Whitsunday Islands Cruise – Spend the day exploring Whitehaven Beach, snorkelling reefs and walking to Hill Inlet’s viewpoint.

  • Peaceful Mission Beach – Relax and unwind in this quiet seaside village where the rainforest meets the Coral Sea.

  • Atherton Tablelands Adventure – Visit waterfalls, crater lakes and ancient rainforest, with chances to spot local wildlife.

  • Great Barrier Reef Day – Sail to the reef for guided snorkelling or a glass-bottom boat tour over vibrant coral gardens.

  • Relaxed Comfort – Enjoy boutique accommodation, easy-paced days and authentic local experiences.

Trip Inclusions

  • 6 Nights’ Private or Shared Boutique Resort – all rooms with ensuite

  • 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches

  • All National Park entry fees included

  • Cape Tribulation

  • Skyrail gondola ride over rainforest to Kuranda

  • Daintree rainforest walk – Off the beaten track interpretive, sustainable walk with a local expert

  • Eco-friendly nature cruise – Spot crocodiles, birds and fish in the wild

  • Mossman Gorge entry and soft adventure walk

  • Kuku Yalanji First Nations local walk experience

  • Guided rainforest & gorge walks (~10 km total)

  • Hosted by an experienced driver-guide, with local tour commentary

  • All transport (private small-group vehicle & boat trips)

  • Cairns meeting point / Cairns drop-off point

What you need to bring?

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Your sense of adventure
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Water bottle &/or Camelbak (2L minimum)
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Swimmers and beach towel
  • Hand sanitiser and insect repellent
  • Hat and sunscreen
  • Torch or headlight
  • Snacks for the bus in your day bag
  • Thermals, bed socks, warm clothes, hot water bottle (Oct–Nov, Mar–Apr)

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Brisbane

Arrive in Brisbane, where river views, subtropical weather and laid-back vibes will make you feel welcome. Meet your guide and fellow travellers at 5 pm in the hotel lobby for a quick welcome meeting, then head out for a city orientation. End the evening with a shared dinner at a local favourite.

Included Activities:

  • Welcome meeting and evening city walk
  • Optional dinner with the group

Meals: None
Driving Distance: None
Walking Distance: Short stroll
Accommodation: The Point Hotel Brisbane or similar

Day 2: Brisbane → Airlie Beach

This morning we fly to the Whitsunday Coast. Arriving in Airlie Beach, you’ll find a mix of beach town and island getaway. The afternoon is free to do as you please — wander the foreshore, swim at the lagoon or relax with a drink by the water.

Included Activities:

  • Domestic flight to the Whitsundays
  • Free time to explore Airlie Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 40 km
Flight: Brisbane to Proserpine – approx. 1 hr 50 min (990 km)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar

Day 3: Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Islands

Sail on a full-day island cruise to explore the Whitsundays’ stunning scenery. Visit Whitehaven Beach, walk to Hill Inlet for breathtaking views and snorkel coral reefs teeming with marine life. Back in Airlie Beach, spend the evening trying out the local dining scene or simply unwinding after a day on the water.

Included Activities:

  • Whitsundays full day cruise with snorkelling, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat journey – approx. 8 hours (46 km)
Walking Distance: Easy guided walks (approx. 2 km total)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar

Day 4: Mission Beach

Today we head north along the Bruce Highway, passing through cane fields and tropical landscapes to Mission Beach. The afternoon is free to relax — take a walk on the beach, enjoy the pool or keep an eye out for wallabies and cassowaries in the wild.

Included Activities:

  • along the Bruce Highway

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 505 km (longest day on the road)
Walking Distance: Short, easy walks and lookout points
Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort or similar

Day 5: Cairns via the Atherton Tablelands

Travel inland to the cool, green highlands of the Atherton Tablelands. Swim in a rainforest waterfall, visit Lake Eacham and see the giant Curtain Fig Tree. After a day in nature, we arrive in Cairns — a tropical city with a lively waterfront and warm evening air.

Included Activities:

  • Atherton Tablelands tour with waterfall swim, crater lake and rainforest exploration

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 220 km
Walking Distance: Easy short walks and lookout visits
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 6: Great Barrier Reef

The best is yet to come. Take a 20 metre luxury motor catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef for a day of snorkelling over coral and tropical fish. A glass-bottom boat ride gives another perspective, and onboard commentary explains the reef’s ecosystem. Scuba diving is available for extra fun.

Included:

  • Great Barrier Reef cruise with snorkelling, glass bottom boat and buffet lunch
  • Optional scuba diving

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat travel – approx. 8.5 hours (30 km)
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar

Day 7: Cairns

After breakfast, say goodbye to your travel mates. Your tour ends here, but Cairns is the perfect spot to start more tropical adventures.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A

Autopia Tours (Via Travel) reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary due to seasonal weather patterns or park closures.

Download Pre-Departure Trip Notes

Download our Pre-Departure Trip Notes for essential travel information, packing tips, meeting details, accommodation information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Route details

17:00PM – The Point Brisbane – Hotel, 21 Lambert St, Brisbane, Queensland

Our Contract

All bookings are made with Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 94 143 929 962) (us/we). By booking a trip with us you have agreed to be bound by the terms and conditions set out in these booking conditions. Your booking will be accepted by us on this basis. The services to be provided are those referred to in your booking confirmation and/or invoice. Accredited Bus Number: AC003612.

Validity

Dates and itineraries are valid until 31 March 2026, effective from 01 June 2024 dates and itineraries are indicative only.

Standard Conditions

Any references to ‘GLT’, ‘we’, ‘our’ and ‘us’ equates to Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd, which applies to the following GLT brands and entities below Autopia Tours, Wildlife Tours Australia, Walking Country, Wayoutback Australian Safaris, Australian Bus Charters & Tailormade Touring, Boutique Touring Company and Geelong & Bellarine Tours.

Please take the time to read and understand the conditions of booking set out below before booking a trip with us.

We strongly recommend that you also read the information relating to your product or service before booking to ensure that you understand the itinerary, style, and physical demands of the tour you are undertaking. GLT will not be held responsible for passengers failing to familiarise themselves with the booking terms and conditions.

Although every effort is made, GLT shall not be liable for any illness, injury, damages, loss, delay, or failure to join the tour that may occur due to factors beyond our control. We highly recommend all passengers have travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage, should they have to cancel a trip at the last minute.

GLT reserves the right to modify routes or itineraries, vehicle types, fares, days of operation, or even cancel tours when unforeseen circumstances arise. This is especially true during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies. Other accredited tour operators may be used from time to time on some tours.

Fares are shown in Australian Currency and are correct at time of printing but are subject to change.

Traveller Information

For us to confirm your travel arrangements, you must provide all requested details at the time of booking. Your full name, contact details, email address, dietary requirements (if applicable), nationality, or Australian postcode and any pre-existing medical conditions you have that may affect your ability to complete your travel arrangements.

For more information about how we treat your personal information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Booking Terms and Conditions

Customers Responsible Travel

The customer shall comply with all Government (Federal, State, and Territory) conditions of entry into Australia and/or at the time of travel for tour and transport services.

In the event that a traveler needs to cancel unexpectedly due to visa restrictions, a medical condition, family reasons, or changes to regulations imposed by the government, the operator shall apply discretion when applying cancellation policies in these circumstances. The operator reserves the right to withhold such a reasonable sum to cover administrative expenses and other losses, dependent on when notice of cancellation is given by the customer.

It was previously recommended by the Department of Health that commercial passenger vehicle drivers and passengers wear fitted face masks whilst in transit to minimise the spread of the virus. This is no longer mandatory, but rather at the driver’s or traveller’s own discretion. Some remote regions have limited access to RAT tests, so multi-day travelers are still advised to bring some along.

In the unlikely event that a traveller must leave a tour midway after it has commenced, or attempt to join a tour after departure, the operator is not required to reimburse any aspects of the tour that they did not participate in. As part of this, the traveler is responsible for any relocation expenses incurred from the point of departure to their nominated destination and is the traveller’s responsibility and will not be reimbursed.

Note: Different cancellation conditions may apply if/when booked through third-party agents. Your travel consultant will advise if differences apply. Travelers are strongly advised to purchase personal cancellation insurance at the time of booking.

Cancellations & Refund Policy

Cancellation by the Traveller

We understand that travel plans can sometimes change, if you cancel some or all portions of your booking the cancellation terms set out below will apply. A cancellation will only take effect when we receive written confirmation that you have sent to your relevant booking agent notifying them of your cancellation.

If you wish to change or cancel a trip:

Day Trips

(a) 0 to 1 day / within 24-hrs from the experience start time or failure to board on tour:
● will result in a 100% cancellation fee / full fare forfeiture of the ticket price and not eligible for a refund; or
(b) 2+ days prior to the departure:
● we will refund the full balance paid by you in connection with your booking; or
● flexible date changes – unlimited supply of free date changes available; or
● alternatively, we can issue a credit voucher for the amount paid to travel on another day

Short Break / Extended Tours

(a) 0 to 14 days before the departure date or failure to board on tour:
● will result in a 100% cancellation fee / full fare forfeiture of the ticket price and not eligible for a refund; or
(b) 15+ days prior to the departure:
● we will refund the full balance paid by you in connection with your booking; or
● flexible date changes – unlimited supply of free date changes available; or
● alternatively, we can issue a credit voucher for the amount paid to travel on another day

Any credit travel voucher resulting from a cancellation under (Cancellation by the Traveller) has an expiry date of 3 years and may be applied towards any other available trip offered by us. This credit is transferable on experience, however not redeemable for cash.

Note different cancellation conditions may apply if/when booked through third-party agents, your travel consultant will advise if differences apply. We strongly advise travellers to take out personal cancellation insurance at the time of booking.

Cancellation by the Operator

Our trips are guaranteed to depart once minimum group sizes have been met for the tour, unless it specifically states otherwise (refer to Product Fact Sheets) or in the event of a Force Majeure (refer below) resulting in the cancellation of a trip.

We have the right to cancel a trip at any time prior to departure if external events occur that deem it not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary.

Standard Cancellation

If we the tour operator cancel your trip, we can offer you a choice of:
(a) a 100% reimbursement of monies paid for your trip
(b) transfer amounts paid to an alternative departure date or tour operated by GLT; or
(c) issued with a credit travel voucher to the amount paid for your trip, valid for 3-years

Force Majeure Cancellation

If a trip is cancelled due to a ‘Force Majeure Event’, we can offer you a choice of:
(a) a 100% credit voucher of monies paid for your trip; or
(b) a refund minus unrecoverable costs.

If the cancellation due to a ‘Force Majeure Event’ occurs after a trip has commenced, we can offer you a choice of a pro-rata:
(a) 110% credit voucher for the days that remain on your trip; or
(b) refund minus unrecoverable costs of the days that remain on your trip.

Any credit travel voucher resulting from a cancellation as mentioned in (Cancellation by the Traveller):
● 3-year expiry date and may be applied towards any other available trip offered by GLT;
● are not redeemable for cash;
● excludes flights or insurance as they will have their own booking conditions

In circumstances where the cancellation is due to external events outside our reasonable control, refunds will be less than any unrecoverable costs. GLT cannot be held responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess, or non-refundable flights.

A “Force Majeure Event” includes but is not limited to: acts of God; war; civil commotion; riot; blockade or embargo; fire; explosion; breakdown; union dispute; earthquake; epidemic, pandemic or other health emergency; flood; windstorm or other extreme weather event; lack or failure of courses of supply; passage of any law, order, proclamation, regulation, ordinance, demand, requisition or requirement or any other act of any government authority, beyond the reasonable control of the parties, whether or not foreseeable, which would make it dangerous or not viable for a trip to commence or continue.

Acceptance of Risk

Australia is home to a wide range of dangerous animals, extreme weather conditions, and varied terrain. Experiencing these dangers while camping, hiking, or passing time outside may increase your personal risk. Safety is our number one priority and our guides are highly trained to ensure passenger safety at all times. Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or accident caused by passengers onboard our tours.

Travel Insurance

We recommend all guests have personal travel insurance which should be taken out at the time of booking prior to tour departure. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident death, 24/7 medical expenses, and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$ 200,000 for each of the categories of cover.

We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation curtailment, COVID-19 cover, personal liability, and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number, and the emergency contact number with you rather than the bank’s name and credit card details.

Alcohol Policy

Alcohol is not permitted on board our vehicles. We reserve the right to refuse re-entry if passengers are overly intoxicated and pose a threat to other passengers, our driver, or our vehicle. We also reserve the right to advise at any time prior to departure and whilst in operation, that alcohol is no longer permitted. The legal drinking age in Australia is 18 years old, photo ID is required.

Child Policy (Age Requirements)

Our child and infant policy, as well as pricing, vary depending on the specific trip due to the diversity of our product offerings. Please refer to the tour page for detailed information. All travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Infants aged 0 to 4 may be able to join select sightseeing tours, though some day tours may not be suitable due to the terrain or duration. A child ticket is required for infants, as they are included in the head count. Child safety seats can be requested at the time of booking, subject to availability but are not guaranteed.

Important Note: Due to the type of experiences we operate throughout Australia, some may require a medium to high level of fitness and a doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years old (30 days before travel).

Prices and surcharges

Our tour prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, both of which are standard practice within the travel industry. Depending on the trip, passengers are likely to be charged different prices, so booking at that time is the best option if you like the price. Any reduced pricing or discounts that may become available after you have paid your fare price will not apply. If you wish to cancel your booking to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions apply as set out below in (Cancellation by the Traveller). The most up-to-date pricing is available on our websites. Please note that a surcharge may be applied to a purchase made by credit card.

Luggage Policy

To maximize the comfort of your journey no luggage storage facilities are provided on our (Day Trips): It is recommended you bring a small day pack no bigger than 5-7kg. (Short-Break / Extended Tours): Maximum baggage allowance per person is 15-20kg preferably a soft travelling pack.
Excessive amounts of luggage may incur a surcharge fee. Inappropriate luggage presented on the day of departure such as surfboards, bikes, and an excessive amount of luggage may result in refusal to board unless previously arranged. Other: mobility scooters, wheelchairs, pushers, prams, walking frames, and other walking aids cannot be stored safely on our vehicles. Please advise prior to booking if there are any of these aids required.

Pick-up & Drop-offs

GLT may offer complimentary inner-city pick-up and drop-off services to selected accommodation providers. Please note it is the customer’s responsibility to be waiting out the front of your selected pickup location (accommodation provider) at least 10 minutes before departure. Failure to wait out the front of your selected accommodation or nominated meeting point may result in the tour guide being unable to locate you causing failure to load. GLT cannot be held responsible for passengers who fail to load.

Weather Policy

The weather conditions throughout Australia can vary significantly. While we strive to operate our tours as planned, tours will only be cancelled in the event of extreme weather conditions that pose a safety risk, such as storms, floods, lightning or extreme temperatures. Tours will not be cancelled due to rain, fog, or similar weather occurrences unless they significantly impact safety or accessibility. If a tour is cancelled due to extreme weather, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer the option to reschedule or provide a full refund, depending on availability and your preferences.

We recommend checking the average temperatures for your travel dates and packing accordingly. Please note that we are not responsible for any additional costs or inconvenience caused by weather-related changes, including accommodation, travel, or other expenses. We advise all travellers to come prepared for varying weather conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Special Requirements

Please notify the tour operator of any food allergies or special dietary requirements, and/or medical conditions at the time of booking or 7 days prior to the tour departure. While we endeavor to cater to most dietary needs, there are limited food options in some regions we visit on extended tours, so forward planning is required to ensure we can accommodate but it is not guaranteed. For those with special dietaries, we recommend you bring snacks along.

Booking Confirmations & Enquiries

All reservations must be confirmed within 48 hours of departure via email to [email protected].

Updated June 2024.

  • Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, title or gender for rooming configuration, a contact phone number, passport details.
  • Dietary Requirements: While we endeavour to cater to most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements or food allergies when booking.
  • Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. This is a physically demanding tour requiring an easy level of fitness and mobility.
  • Fitness Level: Travellers can expect some light physical activities. Travellers should be mobile enough to walk unaided. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
  • Age Restrictions: Children aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 11 and under due to the nature of the tour.
  • Solo Travellers: Solo travellers who book separately in a Twin Share Accommodation (BC7-B) will be paired with another solo traveller in a twin room or with someone of the same gender.
  • Fare Type Options: 
  • Shared Accommodation (BC7-B) is restricted to Adults only 18+ years and over, as travellers stay in a shared room with shared ensuite. Not suitable for children.
  • Private Double/Twin Room (BC7-S): For Adults and Children staying in a double or twin room with ensuite and must be purchased by Qty2 people staying together.
  • Private Single Room (BC7-P): Restricted to Adults only (18+ years old and over) with ensuite.
  • Mobility Considerations: This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walking aids or mobility scooters.
  • Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 20 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. Larger or multiple suitcases are by request only.
  • Itinerary Variations: Itineraries may change due to seasonal weather conditions, and occasionally sites in the parks may close for cultural or safety reasons or restricted swimming access. We prioritise safety and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
  • Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 02 72291083 or 03 9393 1333 or via email.
  • Private Tours: Private touring groups are available upon request at [email protected].

Check Availability & Book Now!

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FAQ

What fitness level is required for this tour?

This tour is for people with a moderate fitness level. Most activities involve short, easy walks on formed tracks, with optional swims and guided lookouts. If you can walk a few km and manage stairs, you’ll be fine for this trip.

Are flights included in the tour price?

Yes. The domestic flight from Brisbane to the Whitsundays (Proserpine) is included in your tour package, along with all land and boat transfers listed in the itinerary.

Can I join the tour if I’m travelling solo?

Yes. Many of our guests are solo travellers. You can book a private single room or share a twin room with another traveller of the same gender, depending on your preference and availability.

Do I need to bring my own snorkelling gear?

No, all snorkelling gear for the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef cruises is provided. If you prefer, you can bring your own gear, and wetsuits can be hired onboard for an extra cost.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?

This tour runs year round, but April to October is the best time for warm sunny days and comfortable humidity. Summer (November to March) is lush and green with warmer water, but tropical showers are more common.

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

Limited storage space is available on our vehicle and on domestic flights. We request that travellers may bring a maximum of 1 x 23kg travel bag and 1x 5 kg day bag. larger or multiple suitcases are by request only.

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