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Peregrine Travel Centre

North Queensland Adventure

North Queensland Adventure

From $ 5,925 AUD

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Description

Explore Australia’s beautiful northeastern corner – home to rainforests, coral reefs and white sand beaches. This 13-day adventure starts strong with a dose of serenity in Noosa, before whisking you to the stunning surroundings of K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) and the ancient wilderness of the Daintree Rainforest. Explore the expanse of the iconic Great Barrier Reef and the bliss of the Whitsundays and enjoy free time in Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, Mission Beach and more – on this whirlwind through north Queensland, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to kick back on the warm sands with a good book or get right in on the action.

Trip Name
North Queensland Adventure
Last Updated
2024-08-07
Days
13
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Take an incredible 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). Ride across sand dunes and vast golden beaches in search of the iconic outback creature, the dingo.
  • Take a full-day tour of the Whitsundays and a half-day tour of the reef from Cape Tribulation - opportunities to swim among the colourful corals and tropical fish on the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
  • Enjoy free time in Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay and Mission Beach, where you can hit the water and swim, kayak or take a boat ride or just kick back on the warm sands with a good book.
  • Explore Mungalla Wetlands and Mandingal Bay with First Nations guides, including smoking ceremonies and immersive exploration of country and culture. 
  • Visit the Daintree Rainforest – the oldest rainforest in the world – and Cape Tribulation on a stunning day that ticks off two UNESCO World Heritage areas (nature lovers rejoice!).
  • Watch the sunset over the Mareeba Wetlands on a unique wildlife spotting experience hosted by Forever Wild – an organisation focused on combatting climate crises with community and conservation-based activities.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Greening Australia. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges, restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature.

Itinerary

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL EXPERIENCES & COMMUNITIES First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments. In the case that we are unable to include planned activities with First Nations communities, we will endeavour to find a suitable alternative in the same or another destination on your trip.

Day 1 - Brisbane / Noosa / Hervey Bay
Welcome to Brisbane! Or Meanjin in the language of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Brisbane is now located. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 10 am. After, you’ll drive straight to Noosa Heads – a serene town in Queensland by the sea – where you can grab some lunch, relax on the beach or go shopping in the cute boutique shops. If you’d like, maybe use your free time here to do part of the Noosa Coastal Walk and look out for local flora and fauna. This afternoon, you’ll hit the road again for the coastal city of Hervey Bay, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 2 - K'gari (Fraser Island) / Hervey Bay
After breakfast this morning, you’ll head to the stunning K'gari (previously known as Fraser Island) by ferry for a day trip. The name change is a major milestone in a long-running campaign by the Butchulla people, whose original name for this place means ‘paradise’ – and you’ll soon see why. Set off on an adventure through the breathtaking landscape. Start off with an adventurous drive along 75 Mile Beach Road – one of the best coastal drives in the country. Take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) – an island icon. The lake is world famous for its turquoise colours and delicate white, 92% pure silica sand. Take another dip, this time in the fresh waters of Eli Creek, then visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters, you’ll witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating dunes and vast golden beaches in search of the iconic outback creature – the dingo. Tonight, head back to Hervey Bay where you can rest and recharge. 
Day 3 - Hervey Bay / Overnight Train
Enjoy a free day in Hervey Bay today – one of the best sites for observing humpback whales during migration season, and the world’s first certified Whale Heritage Area. If the month is right, maybe spend the morning whale watching on the water, or rent a bike to cycle along the foreshore. Or you could take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, go kayaking or just enjoy one of the many gorgeous beaches nearby. Make sure you pick up some snacks for tonight's overnight train journey north on the famous 'Spirit of Queensland', from the train station at Maryborough West to Proserpine, just south-west of Airlie Beach, arriving early tomorrow morning.
Day 4 - Airlie Beach
Your new leader will meet you at Proserpine train station early this morning. Head for an optional breakfast and caffeine hit at a local café in Airlie Beach. Your day is free to explore this coastal paradise dotted with palm trees. This hub town of the popular Whitsundays has beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. Maybe stroll around and explore, visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip or find a seat at one of the many bars and watch the sun sparkle on the water. Get to know your new leader tonight with an optional group dinner. 
Day 5 - Whitsunday Islands / Whitehaven Beach / Airlie Beach
Today you’ll head out on a full-day tour to Whitehaven Beach, in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands and in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef. Start with a walk to the spectacular Hill Inlet Lookout, where you can take photos of the sweeping ocean views. Then, hit the water and go snorkelling at Border Island, Dumbell Island or one of the secret spots today's guide will show you. See coral reefs, colourful fish, turtles, clams and other marine life. Then, enjoy an included lunch and take a boat to the southern end of the 7 km stretch of Whitehaven Beach, taking the chance to kick back and relax in the sun after a day of outdoor adventures. Tonight, back in Airlie Beach, maybe head to one of the local bars for a cocktail (or two) and watch the sunset.
Day 6 - Townsville / Paluma Range National Park / Lucinda
Today is a long day of travel, interspersed with some stops to stretch your legs. Your first stop is Townsville. Head to Castle Hill lookout when you arrive and take some photos of the gorgeous views of the town and ocean below. You’ll have some free time for lunch and to chill by the water. Carry on to Big Crystal Creek in the Paluma Range National Park, where you can take a stroll, swim in the creek or just relax among the sounds of local birdlife. This afternoon, you’ll head to Lucinda, where you’ll spend the night. Ask your leader for the best seaside spots for dinner and maybe enjoy a night walk to watch the sun go down.
Day 7 - Mungalla Station / Mission Beach
This morning after breakfast, drive to Mungalla station, where you’ll meet the First Nations owners of the land – the Nywaigi people – and learn about their culture and history, including about the brutal conflicts with European settlers. The story you’ve been told will come to life as you visit an exhibition of pictures within the historic homestead. Then head out and explore the Mungalla wetlands in search of aquatic birdlife. Drive to Mission Beach this afternoon – a small coastal town with expansive beaches, lined with palm trees. Stop in Tully along the way to stretch your legs, then ask your leader for the best way to spend your night.
Day 8 - Atherton Tablelands / Cairns
This morning after breakfast, drive to Millaa Millaa Falls for a nature walk and perhaps a refreshing swim in the cascades. Stop in for lunch at a local cafe at Yungaburra, then take the Curtain Fig boardwalk to see the iconic tree this park was named after – this park protects endangered mabi forest and a large green fig tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 m to the forest floor, forming a ‘curtain’. After, walk to Lake Eacham – the site of an old volcano and home to Australia’s largest python! Here, maybe take a swim (just keep an eye out for the resident freshwater crocodile). This afternoon, you’ll drive to Cairns, where you you may say goodbye to some of the group who are finishing their travels here. Tonight meet any new travellers joining at a Welcome Meeting at 6pm.
Day 9 - Cairns
After breakfast, head out on a First Nations-guided eco-tour of Mandingal Bay. The Traditional Owners of this land will teach you about Country, where mountains are home to rainforests and vast wetlands are home to local birdlife. Walk to Hills Creek, where the sea meets the fresh water and attend a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. Then, join your guide on a rainforest trail and learn about ancient Aboriginal traditions, customs and artefacts as you listen to the sounds of nature. After, you have a free afternoon in Cairns to grab some lunch, head to a local art gallery, explore the aquarium or just soak up some sun on the promenade.
Day 10 - Kuranda to Mareeba
Enjoy breakfast and then drive to Kuranda, which is perched at the top of a mountain. You’ll have some time to explore this charming rainforest town and its surroundings. Maybe check out the famous Kuranda Markets or simply relax at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes, where outdoor dining is one of the joys of the cooler mountain climate. After, head to nearby Barron Falls and walk to the lookout for the best views. Continue to Mareeba, where you’ll take a leader-led orientation walk. This afternoon, visit the Tolga Bat Hospital – Australia’s largest bat rehabilitation facility. Here you’ll learn about the facility's research, advocacy and community education and make some new upside-down friends. Tonight, you’ll head to the Mareeba Wetlands for an exciting wildlife spotting experience at sunset, hosted by Forever Wild – an organisation that creates community and nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises. After dark falls, head back to your accommodation for an included group dinner.
Day 11 - Mareeba / Mossman Gorge / Daintree Rainforest / Cape Tribulation
This morning, maybe head out bright and early for a unique optional birdwatching experience in the wetlands – the best time to witness the local birdlife in their natural habitat! Then, enjoy some breakfast and head to the idyllic Mossman Gorge for a refreshing morning swim and a nature walk. After, you’ll continue to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage areas – Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest. Head off on another nature walk and immerse yourself in the sounds and smells of the rainforest, keeping your eye out for local birdlife. Daintree is over 135 million years old, making it the oldest rainforest in the world! This afternoon, continue exploring the area or kick back and relax at your accommodation.
Day 12 - Great Barrier Reef / Cape Tribulation
After breakfast, head out on an early morning tour of the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll swim with turtles and snorkel in the pristine waters off the Daintree Coast, visiting two different snorkel locations. What better way to spend a morning!? The rest of the day is free to relax on the beach, swim, take a hike or just find a good spot to sit and people-watch. This is a nature-lovers paradise, so there are plenty of activities and laidback options to choose from.
Day 13 - Daintree Rainforest / Palm Cove / Cairns
This morning visit Kulki Lookout, where you can stroll along the boardwalk for some iconic views of Cape Tribulation and steep, rainforest-covered slopes that meet the sandy beaches below. Next, head to Madja boardwalk for a scenic circuit that takes you through dense lowland forests and mangrove-lined creeks. Then visit Mason’s Swimming Hole for a gorgeous tropical swim among lush flora and friendly fish and turtles, where you'll have time to have lunch. When you’re refreshed from a dip in the water, continue to Cairns via the idyllic Palm Cove. On arrival in Cairns your trip will come to an end at around 5 pm. If you want to extend your stay and explore Cairns further, just speak to your booking agent.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
09-01-202521-01-2025AUD $ 6,515-
30-01-202511-02-2025AUD $ 6,515-
13-02-202525-02-2025AUD $ 6,220-
20-02-202504-03-2025AUD $ 6,220-
06-03-202518-03-2025AUD $ 5,925-
20-03-202501-04-2025AUD $ 5,925-
05-04-202517-04-2025AUD $ 6,525-
19-04-202501-05-2025AUD $ 6,525-
03-05-202515-05-2025AUD $ 6,525-
31-05-202512-06-2025AUD $ 6,855-
14-06-202526-06-2025AUD $ 6,855-
28-06-202510-07-2025AUD $ 7,180-
12-07-202524-07-2025AUD $ 7,180-
26-07-202507-08-2025AUD $ 7,180-
09-08-202521-08-2025AUD $ 7,180-
23-08-202504-09-2025AUD $ 7,180-
06-09-202518-09-2025AUD $ 6,855-
20-09-202502-10-2025AUD $ 6,855-
04-10-202516-10-2025AUD $ 6,855-
18-10-202530-10-2025AUD $ 6,525-
01-11-202513-11-2025AUD $ 6,525-
15-11-202527-11-2025AUD $ 6,855-
29-11-202511-12-2025AUD $ 7,180-
13-12-202525-12-2025AUD $ 7,180-
10-01-202622-01-2026AUD $ 7,180-
24-01-202605-02-2026AUD $ 6,855-
07-02-202619-02-2026AUD $ 6,525-
21-02-202605-03-2026AUD $ 6,525-
07-03-202619-03-2026AUD $ 6,525-
21-03-202602-04-2026AUD $ 6,525-
04-04-202616-04-2026AUD $ 7,160-
18-04-202630-04-2026AUD $ 7,160-
02-05-202614-05-2026AUD $ 7,160-
16-05-202628-05-2026AUD $ 7,160-
30-05-202611-06-2026AUD $ 6,820-
13-06-202625-06-2026AUD $ 6,820-
27-06-202609-07-2026AUD $ 6,820-
11-07-202623-07-2026AUD $ 6,820-
25-07-202606-08-2026AUD $ 6,820-
08-08-202620-08-2026AUD $ 6,820-
22-08-202603-09-2026AUD $ 6,820-
05-09-202617-09-2026AUD $ 6,820-
19-09-202601-10-2026AUD $ 6,820-
03-10-202615-10-2026AUD $ 7,160-
17-10-202629-10-2026AUD $ 7,160-
31-10-202612-11-2026AUD $ 7,160-
14-11-202626-11-2026AUD $ 7,160-
28-11-202610-12-2026AUD $ 7,500-
12-12-202624-12-2026AUD $ 7,500-
09-01-202721-01-2027AUD $ 7,500-
23-01-202704-02-2027AUD $ 7,500-
06-02-202718-02-2027AUD $ 7,500-
20-02-202704-03-2027AUD $ 7,500-
06-03-202718-03-2027AUD $ 7,500-
20-03-202701-04-2027AUD $ 7,500-

Accommodation

Cabins (2 nights),Overnight train (1 night),Hotel (7 nights),Holiday Apartments (2 nights)

Transport

Private vehicle,Ferry,Overnight train,Boat,4WD

Map

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