11-Day Australia Adventure: Queensland, Reef & Rainforest
Discover Australia’s East Coast in 11 days! Explore the Great Barrier Reef, hike the Daintree Rainforest, and visit coastal towns. Plan your trip now!
EXPENSIVEOCEANIAA GOOD MIX
About
Embark on a stunning 10-day journey through Australia’s East Coast, focusing on Queensland's natural wonders. From the lush rainforests of the Daintree to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, this adventure immerses travelers in pristine landscapes, diverse wildlife, and authentic local culture. Explore charming coastal towns, hike through breathtaking trails, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, all while embracing the natural beauty of Australia. This trip is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly yet enriching escape, with a focus on sustainability and unique experiences.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Relax at the Esplanade Lagoon.
DAY 2 - Great Barrier Reef
Snorkel or dive in the world’s largest coral reef system. Spot marine wildlife.
DAY 3 - Kuranda & Rainforest Walks
Take a scenic ride to Kuranda, stroll through markets, and hike rainforest trails.
DAY 4 - Daintree Rainforest
Discover the Daintree, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guided night walk optional.
DAY 5 - Cape Tribulation
Explore Cape Tribulation’s beaches, mangroves, and forest. Spot cassowaries if lucky!
DAY 6 - Atherton Tablelands
Road trip through waterfalls, crater lakes, and lush highlands. Visit Millaa Millaa Falls.
DAY 7 - Port Douglas
Visit this quaint town, enjoy Four Mile Beach, and explore the Sunday market (if applicable).
DAY 8 - Wildlife Encounters
Experience Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures or a local wildlife sanctuary.
DAY 9 - Chill in Cairns
Free day to relax or take optional excursions, like Fitzroy Island or Green Island.
DAY 10 - Departure
Enjoy a quiet morning before flying home from Cairns.
DAY 11 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$870
$1490
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $30-60 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Car Rental
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$270-540
$250-350
$150-200
$200-400
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
January to March
This period marks the height of the wet season in Queensland, characterized by hot, humid days with frequent afternoon rainstorms and occasional tropical cyclones. Temperatures range from 24°C to 33°C, and the lush landscapes thrive under the heavy rainfall. While this is not ideal for outdoor adventures due to the unpredictability of weather, it is a quieter time for travelers and perfect for enjoying indoor attractions or short excursions between rain showers.
April to May
As the wet season tapers off, April and May bring a transition to cooler and drier conditions. Temperatures hover between 22°C and 28°C, offering comfortable weather for outdoor activities such as snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef or hiking in the Daintree Rainforest. The landscapes remain vibrant from the recent rains, making this a visually stunning time to visit. Crowds are moderate, providing a balance between solitude and liveliness.
June to August
These are the driest and coolest months, often considered the best time to visit Queensland. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C, with low humidity and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for exploring the region’s natural wonders. This is the peak travel season, especially for international visitors, so accommodations and tours may require early booking. Wildlife encounters are also at their prime, with whales migrating along the coast and clear waters for reef exploration.
September to October
Spring ushers in warmer temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C, along with increasingly dry and sunny days. This period is perfect for outdoor adventures, as the weather is still pleasant, and the tourist crowds begin to thin out. The Atherton Tablelands and surrounding areas are particularly picturesque, with blooming flora and active wildlife.
November to December
The onset of the wet season begins with rising temperatures and humidity levels, with daytime highs between 24°C and 33°C. Rainfall becomes more frequent, especially in the afternoons, but the earlier part of this period is still suitable for exploration. The landscapes turn lush and vibrant, and the holiday season brings a lively atmosphere to coastal towns. Travelers should remain mindful of weather forecasts as cyclones become more likely toward the end of December.
Summary Recommendations
Best Overall Period: April to October
The dry season offers the most comfortable climate, allowing for uninterrupted exploration of the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests, and scenic trails.
Alternative: November to December
The early wet season provides lush greenery and fewer crowds, but some activities may be affected by rain.
Avoid if Possible: January to March
Heavy rains and potential cyclones can disrupt plans, particularly in rainforest and coastal areas.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Fly into Cairns and take a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation. Choose a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse near the Esplanade. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a free public swimming area perfect for unwinding after a long journey. Take a sunset walk along the waterfront and enjoy dinner at a local spot serving fresh seafood.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
DAY 2
Book a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, departing early morning from Cairns Marina. Opt for a small-group eco-friendly operator for a more personalized experience. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs and spot colorful fish, turtles, and possibly reef sharks. Lunch is often included on the boat. Return by evening and enjoy a quiet night in Cairns.
GREAT BARRIER REEF
DAY 3
Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda, a charming village in the rainforest. Explore the local markets and visit the nearby Barron Falls. In the afternoon, hike one of the many rainforest trails around Kuranda. Return to Cairns in the evening.
KURANDA & RAINFOREST WALKS
DAY 4
Drive or join a tour to the Daintree Rainforest, one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Walk along the Marrdja Boardwalk and enjoy breathtaking views of the rainforest merging with the sea. For an added thrill, consider a guided night walk to experience the forest’s nocturnal wildlife.
DAINTREE FOREST
DAY 5
Continue to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Explore quiet beaches, mangroves, and jungle trails. Look out for cassowaries, large flightless birds native to the area. Spend the night in a cabin or eco-lodge near Cape Tribulation.
CAPE TRIBULATION
DAY 6
Embark on a road trip to the Atherton Tablelands, known for its waterfalls and lush highlands. Visit the iconic Millaa Millaa Falls, swim in Lake Eacham or Lake Barrine, and explore the Curtain Fig Tree. Pack a picnic for lunch and enjoy the serene surroundings. Return to Cairns in the evening.
ATHERTON TABLELANDS
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some guesthouse near the coast, more into the wilderness to change a bit area
DAY 7
Drive to Port Douglas, a picturesque coastal town about an hour from Cairns. Relax on Four Mile Beach, browse local boutiques, and visit the Sunday market (if applicable). For lunch, try fresh, locally sourced dishes at a waterfront café.
PORT DOUGLAS
DAY 8
Spend the day at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, a wildlife park that offers insight into local fauna, including crocodiles, koalas, and kangaroos. Alternatively, visit a sanctuary focused on conservation and rehabilitation. Spend the rest of the day at the beach
WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
DAY 9
Enjoy a leisurely day in Cairns. Explore the Cairns Botanic Gardens or take an optional excursion to Fitzroy Island for snorkeling and hiking. Wrap up your trip with a relaxed dinner at one of the local eateries.
CHILL IN CAIRNS
DAY 10
Spend your final morning soaking in the tropical atmosphere. Head to Cairns Airport for your departure.
DEPARTURE
DAY 11
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back