From Melbourne to Cairns, we’ll explore the best of Australia’s East Coast plus an ULTIMATE week in Australia’s culture hub – Melbourne. This epic adventure combines our long running East Coast Explorer plus Sydney tour with an additional week in Melbourne. You will get to experience the iconic sights and regions of Melbourne including iconic artwork laneways and the popular Great Ocean road before flying to Sydney and continuing the adventure through to Cairns!
Day 1 : Welcome to Melbourne
Welcome to Melbourne and the ULTIMATE East Coast Explorer adventure. This afternoon you will meet your tour guide and new travel mates at 4pm where we will get to know each other before making our way to the lively riverside promenade of Melbourne’s Southbank precinct for our Welcome Dinner.
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 : City Exploring
Melbourne is known for its diverse range of cultures, a fact represented in the food options this city is famous for. Our second day is spent learning why… This morning we visit the historic city landmark known by the locals as ‘Vic Market’. Located on the northern fringe of the city, this open air market is a haven for Australian fruit and vegetables, as well as local and imported gourmet foods. In warmer months, these markets come alive and host midweek hangouts for locals. The rest of today is spent exploring the city and getting an understanding of Australia's Cultural hub.
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 : Grampians National Park
Today we are departing the city to explore the state of Victoria. Our first stop; Grampians National Park! This Grampians day tour will take you along the various trails and up to the impressive waterfalls that have made this national park famous. We will visit Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre encounter kangaroos & emus and visit McKenzie Falls!
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 : Great Ocean Road
Our first adventure continues as we detour along the Great Ocean road and explore the Victoria Coastline. The Great Ocean Road is an Australian National Heritage listed 243-kilometre stretch of road. We will stop at all the iconic sights including the 12 Apostles!
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 : Afternoon Drinks
This afternoon we will arrive back into the City and on our return we will wind down with an end of week ‘bevvy’ at a few of our favourite local pubs!
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 : Exploring St Kilda
Saturday is the perfect time to reflect on the week and begin planning the week to come. We will make our way to the popular St Kilda Beach and have the opportunity to try paddle boarding and visit the iconic cafés and venues on the famous promenade. Tonight we will experience Melbourne nightlife with a Melbourne Pub Crawl!
Meals :Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 : Farewell Melbourne
Today is our last morning in Melbourne before we catch an early afternoon flight to Harbour City to kick off the Sydney week of the East Coast Explorer adventure.
Meals :Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 : Welcome to Sydney
Meet at WakeUp! Reception at 11:00am. We start with a brief info session, and meet up with the rest of the group. We then head to Darling Harbour for lunch and our city walking tour. Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera and money for lunch.
Meals :Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 : Sydney Harbour Sail
This morning feel free to explore more of the city, come see us in Ultimate HQ, or just chill out! Meet your group leader in the reception of Wakeup Sydney at 12.00pm for your Sydney Harbour Cruise on the Ultimate catamaran. We’ll walk to Darling Harbour together and stop to buy drinks along the way. Bring your swimmers, towel, camera and ID to buy drinks. (BBQ lunch included). Tonight, your guide will be able to give you some recommendations on what to do!
Meals :Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 : Bondi Beach
Today we depart the city for 3 days / 2 nights at the most famous beach in the world, Bondi! Pack a small bag with enough gear for the next few days, then check-out of WakeUp! Hostel at 10am and meet your Guide in Reception. Once you’ve dropped your main luggage at Ultimate HQ, we head out to explore everything Bondi has to offer. Have a chat to your Group Leader about some of the great activities you can do this morning exploring the Graffiti walls famous in Bondi or simply chilling on Australia's most famous beach! This afternoon, your Guide will be taking you on the Bondi Beach to Coogee coastal walk. Bring your swimmers, comfy shoes & some money for a few well-deserved drinks in Coogee!
Meals :Lunch
Day 11 : Free day
Free day to keep exploring
Meals :Lunch
Day 12 : Blue Mountains
After a lazy start to your morning, make sure you’re checked out and meet your leader at 7.50am in reception ready to embark upon a truly special day in one of the most spectacular World Heritage listed National Parks, ‘The Blue Mountains’. Make sure you wear comfy shoes! You’ll be dropped-off back in the city at WakeUp! this evening and have a free night to rest or explore Sydney a little more. Be sure to ask your Guide for some suggestions! Included Activity(s): Blue Mountains Full Day Visit the Three Sisters rock formations and hear the aboriginal dream time story behind it. Check out some secret viewing points and waterfalls including the amazing Wentworth Falls & Lincoln's Rock and sometimes Govetts Leap.
Meals :Lunch
Day 13 : Sydney Party
Have a chat to your Group Leader about some of the great activities that Sydney has to offer! You could head to Taronga Zoo, climb the iconic Harbour Bridge, go Skydiving, or have a chat to us about some of our other fun options! Meet at WakeUp Reception at 6.30pm. Your Ultimate Party Night includes entry into 3 bars and 3 free drinks. Bring your ID and dress to impress! (no flip flops)
Meals :Lunch
Day 14 : Free day
Today is our last day in Sydney it is free for you to continue exploring alongside your tour guide or by participating in an optional activity! Tomorrow we are joined by new tour mates as our East Coast adventure officially begins.
Meals :Lunch
Day 15 : Sydney to Byron Bay
Your Ultimate East Coast adventure starts here in Sydney, with a guided tour of the city and an orientation at our Ultimate HQ. Get to know your group at our welcome dinner before we begin our epic journey up the East Coast. We'll travel overnight by luxury, air-conditioned coach, complete with wifi and reclining chairs so sit back, relax and get ready for 5 weeks exploring the very best of the wonderful East Coast of Australia!
Meals :None
Day 16 : Byron Surf
This morning, we arrive in Byron Bay, the boho hub of the East Coast. We'll check in to our beachfront hostel and wander around the town before taking part in a fun, professional surf lesson this afternoon. You'll be riding the waves like a pro in no time!
Meals :None
Day 17 : Beach Yoga
Today we'll zen out with a morning yoga session on the beach. Today you have the option of heading to the famous hippie hub of Nimbin, stopping off at a waterfall on the way (optional add-on). Soak up the sun and get ready for a wine & cheese night at our hostel this evening.
Meals :None
Day 18 : Byron Lighthouse
This morning, we'll get up early and head to the famous Byron lighthouse to take in the gorgeous ocean views at sunrise. Check out the local farmers markets, chill at the beach and talk to your guide about kayaking with Dolphins (optional add-on) this afternoon.
Meals :None
Day 19 : Explore Byron
It's time to hit the beach! Grab a stand up paddleboard from the hostel or relax on the sand. Today is all about chilling and embracing the laid-back surfer vibes of Byron! Keen to explore? No worries - grab a bike and head into town (free at our hostel!)
Meals :None
Day 20 : Party in Paradise
After a morning at your leisure, we'll set off for our next stop; Surfers Paradise! Known for its awesome waves, never-ending nightlife and long sandy beaches, Surfers is a real highlight of the East Coast. We'll explore the town and the beautiful beaches, before getting dressed up and heading out to our favourite bars
Meals :None
Day 21 : Explore Surfers Paradise
Otherwise spend the day chilling by the pool or exploring the beachfront markets. Today you also have the option of book a Skypoint tower pass with your guide for spectacular views of the Gold Coast (add-on).
Meals :None
Day 22 : Chill in Surfers Paradise
You'll have some free time today so sleep in, walk around town or chill at the beach before we get together for a few bevvies this evening
Meals :None
Day 23 : Brisbane City Walk
In the morning, we'll hop on the bus and head to Brisbane! Our accommodation is right in the city centre - the perfect base for exploring the city! Today we'll discover some of Brisbane's 'best bits' on our city walk, from man-made Streets Beach, the popular city lagoon to Southbank the cultural hub.
Meals :None
Day 24 : Explore Brisbane
Today you have the option of heading to the famous Australia Zoo to get up close with some amazing Aussie wildlife! (add-on - includes return transfer from Brisbane). Rather stay local? No worries! Explore some of Brisbane's hidden spots or relax at your hostel.
Meals :None
Day 25 : Free day Brisbane
Free day
Meals :None
Day 26 : Relax in Noosa
Tropical greenery, diverse wildlife, and amazing beaches - Noosa, our next stop, is gorgeous. We'll arrive in the afternoon, chill by the beach and watch the sunset. We're here for two nights so settle in and make the most of our beautiful surroundings!
Meals :None
Day 27 : Explore Noosa
Today we'll take a hike over the coastal headlands taking in the amazing sea views. The rest of the day is yours: chill by the pool, grab a surfboard or boogie board from your hostel (free) or have a couple-a beers at the bar! Today you also have the chance to join a Noosa Everglades Kayak adventure (optional add-on). The choice is yours!
Meals :None
Day 28 : Welcome to Rainbow Beach
Our next stop is Rainbow beach, the gateway to our Fraser Island adventure! Check into your hostel and head out for a short hike to Carlo Sand Blow, a unique sand mass where you can watch the sunset over the southern tip of Fraser Island!
Meals :None
Day 29 : K’Gari (Fraser Island) Exploring
Ready to explore the world's largest sand island? Today, we will begin our Fraser Island adventure, exploring this vast island in a 4x4! We'll be spending the 2 nights here in our own campsite, just a few metres from the beach, so kick back and take in the amazing views!
Meals :None
Day 30 : Lakes, Beach & Views
Take a dip in the amazing clear waters of Lake McKenzie, bathe in the champagne pools, drive on the beach highway and take in vast views from Indian heads lookout.
Meals :None
Day 31 : Return to Rainbow Beach
Start with breakfast on Fraser Island, before our cleaning and take down of our camp site. We then drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk, where we walk through the sand dunes to this tropical paradise! Lunch follows our trip to Lake Wabby, before we begin our drive down the beach heading back to the barge. Once back on the mainland we head back to the 4WD shed where you unpack and quickly clean the cars. We return to Freedom Rainbow Beach between 3pm and 4pm
Meals :None
Day 32 : Explore Rainbow Beach
After a good night's sleep, you have the day to rest and recover or continue exploring with some optional activities. From Surf Lessons to SUP Hire and from Horse Riding to Dolphin Kayaking, there is an activity for you!
Meals :None
Day 33 : Rainbow Beach to Airlie Beach
Today is our last day in Rainbow Beach. A visit to the Carlo Sand Blow is another must for everyone staying at Rainbow Beach. This iconic sand mass provides great views of the coloured sands, Double Island Lighthouse and Inskip Peninsula… This evening, we'll hop on the overnight bus to Airlie beach, arriving the next morning
Meals :None
Day 34 : Airlie Beach
Check into your hostel before heading out to explore tropical Airlie Beach, taking a dip in the famous harbourfront lagoon.
Meals :None
Day 35 : Tropical Airlie
Spend the day exploring the tropical paradise of Airlie Beach. Treat yourself to a shopping day, chill by the lagoon, or if you’re feeling adventurous, tackle the Honeyeater Lookout for breathtaking views!
Meals :None
Day 36 : Whitsundays Sailing Adventure
It's time to start our Whitsundays adventure! We'll be spending the next few days cruising around the stunning Whitsunday islands on a sailing boat. We'll be sleeping onboard so get comfy, have a drink, enjoy some delicious food, and settle into the gorgeous surroundings.
Meals :None
Day 37 : Explore the Whitsundays
We'll spend our time snorkeling in pristine blue waters and visiting some of the whitest sandy beaches in the world. Chill with your mates and witness some incredible sunsets! The Whitsundays are breathtaking!
Meals :None
Day 38 : Party in Airlie
After two amazing days on the boat, we'll head back to our hostel in tropical Airlie Beach for the next two nights. Arriving in the evening, we'll hit the hostel terrace bar and reminisce on our Whitsundays adventure!
Meals :None
Day 39 : Ferry to Magnetic Island
You're in for a treat as we spend the next 4 days exploring Magnetic Island - home to wild koalas, wallabies, and golden sandy beaches. Settle in to our accommodation for the night and get ready for our Magnetic Island adventure
Meals :None
Day 40 : Magnetic Island
Maggie, as it’s known by locals, really is a tropical paradise! Today we can snorkel in the pristine island waters, take the guided Fort's walk offering incredible views of the island and spot local wildlife.
Meals :None
Day 41 : Magnetic Island
Want to explore the rest of the island? Rent a 4x4 'Barbie car' for the day and drive around the island with your mates (available for hire) taking in some of Maggie Island's incredible sights and beaches. You can also stop off and hand-feed cute wallabies!
Meals :None
Day 42 : Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island has an on-site wildlife park where you can get up close to Aussie wildlife such as koalas and wallabies (additional cost). Today, chill by the pool or check out the wildlife park (add-on).
Meals :None
Day 43 : Mission Beach
Our next stop is Mission beach, where the rainforest and the reef meet. Mission is renowned for incredible sunrises! We'll arrive at our hostel in the evening in time for a few drinks at the hostel bar before hitting the sack ready for a big day tomorrow!
Meals :None
Day 44 : Mission Beach
This morning is free for you to spend at your leisure. We recommend exploring the beautiful neighboring National Park, traditional country of The Djiru Aboriginal people. If you're up for a bit of adrenaline action, you have the option of joining an awesome white water rafting adventure in Tully, just a short distance from Mission Beach (optional add-on).
Meals :None
Day 45 : Welcome to Cairns!
Mission beach is also home to Australia's highest skydive (15,000ft!) so if you're feeling adventurous and ready for some adrenaline-pumping action - get signed up (add-on). Fly over a reef, jump out a plane and land on a beach. Awesome! Tonight we arrive in Cairns - the Ultimate backpacker destination, and gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy luxury air-conditioned en-suite dorm rooms, a huge pool and daily entertainment in our resort-style accommodation. We'll be spending the next 5 days here, so settle in and get ready for an exciting few days ahead!
Meals :None
Day 46 : Rainforest & Waterfalls
Our first full day in Cairns will be spent exploring the Tablelands region, swimming under waterfalls, exploring rainforest and sliding down natural rock slides. If you're lucky, you may even see some shy platypuses in the wild!
Meals :None
Day 47 : Great Barrier Reef
What better way to spend your last few days in paradise than a day trip to the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef? We'll take a boat to the outer reef and snorkel around the vibrant coral, encountering turtles, stingrays and maybe even Nemo - an experience you'll never forget! $20 Port, fuel & reef levy payable locally.
Meals :None
Day 48 : Explore Cairns
The next two days are open for you to explore Cairns and the surrounding area. Visit the Daintree Rainforest (optional add-on) or stay local and relax in the sunshine! Cairns popular lagoon is a great spot to relax in the day before making the most of the awesome backpacker nightlife on offer!
Meals :None
Day 49 : Chill & Farewell
Today chill at our hostel's lagoon pool, join in on pool volleyball, head to the deck bar or start planning the next part of your adventure! Keen to brave a bungy jump? Talk to your guide about booking a bungy jump over the rainforest (optional add-on). We'll take you to our favourite spot to reminisce on the past 5 weeks of adventure over a few beers!
Meals :None
Day 50 : Keen for more?
Whether you plan to stay in the tropics, travel elsewhere in Australia or onto a different destination, your tour guide and the crew at Ultimate HQ will be here to support you and help you plan your adventure!
Meals :None
Airport transfer on arrival to Sydney airport can be organised if needed - please send full flight details to res@ultimate.travel
The group will meet on day 1, more detailed information will be sent to the customer pre-arrival.
We have done our best to include all fee's and charges but there are some key touring components that are required to be paid on arrival whilst on tour.
- Fraser Island Insurance Fee ($20 AUD) - Paid direct on arrival
- Fraser Island Sleeping Bag Hire ($10AUD) - Paid direct if required
- Great Barrier Reef Conservation Levy ($20 AUD) Paid direct on arrival
- Whitsundays National Park EMC Levy ($30 AUD) Paid direct on arrival
Optional Activity Levies - Whilst on tour, various local activity operators may charge a levy that is to be paid direct on the day your activity takes place. These will be communicated to you when booking any optional activities. A local 'levy' is generally a tax or administration fee.
