CHECK DATES & BOOK GET TRIP NOTES EAST COAST HIGHLIGHTS 3 WEEK - 21 DAY/20 NIGHT SYDNEY TO GREAT BARRIER REEF
PRICES START FROM:
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€2,745 £2,389 $4,599

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a deposit today! Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.

21-DAY / 20-NIGHT GROUP TOUR

EAST COAST HIGHLIGHTS

3 WEEK GROUP TOUR | SYDNEY TO GREAT BARRIER REEF

4.9 Stars - based on 3140 ULTIMATE Traveller Reviews
PRICES START FROM:
EUR GBP AUD
€2,745 £2,389 $4,599

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a deposit today!Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.

East Coast Highlights Map

> Sydney to Great Barrier Reef – 3 WEEK HIGHLIGHTS

Discover all the iconic highlights of the Australian East Coast with our Ultimate East Coast Highlights tour. From Sydney to Great Barrier Reef, This fast-paced adventure will lead you to bohemian beach towns, world heritage sites, iconic surf beaches, pristine landscapes and the Great Barrier Reef! If you’re looking to make new mates and discover the best of the Aussie East Coast, then this Ultimate East Coast Highlights is for you.

K’GARI ISLAND CAMPING

2 night Camping adventure on Fraser Island.

TRANSPORT

Scania coaches. WiFI. Reclining Seats.

EXPERIENCE

Group Leader leading your trip from Sydney to Cairns

ITINERARY

Fast Pace 3 week adventure with 7 itinerary stops Sydney to Cairns.

WHITSUNDAYS SAILING

2 night island Sailing.

WHERE WE STAY

Flashpacker. 4-12 Bed Dorms. Upgrades available.

Discover all the iconic highlights of the Australian East Coast with our Ultimate East Coast Highlights tour. From Sydney to Great Barrier Reef, This fast-paced adventure will lead you to bohemian beach towns, world heritage sites, iconic surf beaches, pristine landscapes and the Great Barrier Reef! If you’re looking to make new mates and discover the best of the Aussie East Coast, then this Ultimate East Coast Highlights is for you.

East Coast Highlights Map

EXPERIENCE

Group Leader leading your trip from Sydney to Cairns

ITINERARY

Fast Pace 3 week adventure with 7 itinerary stops Sydney to Cairns.

WHITSUNDAYS SAILING

2 night island Sailing.

WHERE WE STAY

Flashpacker. 4-12 Bed Dorms. Upgrades available.

K’GARI ISLAND CAMPING

2 night Camping adventure on Fraser Island.

TRANSPORT

Scania coaches. WiFI. Reclining Seats.

Form CTA
INCLUSIONS
ABOUT THE TOUR
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
HOW TO BOOK
INCLUSIONS

 

All transport from Sydney to Cairns

 All transport via Scania coaches

Ultimate East Coast Group Leader

Group Leader available 24/7 on tour

20 nights’ Accommodation

Flashpacker Accommodation and 2 x overnight buses

Sydney city tour

Check out the Harbour City key sights including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and more

Behind Byron Bay Tour 

Exploring the hidden, untouched gems Lennox Head, Lake Ainsworth and Killen Falls

Visit Byron Bay Lighthouse

 Hike to Australia’s most Easterly point.

Brisbane Orientation Walk

Explore Brisbane’s Southbank district and hang out by the city lagoon.

3-day K'gari Camping Adventure

Explore Fraser Island by 4WD and visit Lake McKenzie, Champagne Pools, Eli Creek and more!

3-day Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure

Spend 2 nights sailing the Whitsundays. Visit Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Look Out plus more

Visit Australia Zoo

The Ultimate Wildlife Adventure and experience at the famous Irwin Family Zoo.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Trip

Experience the Great Barrier reef and snorkel the key reefs on a full day trip out in the wonder of the world.

4 x Breakfast 5 x Lunch 6 x Dinner

Some meals included along with great local recommendations throughout the journey.

 

Local fees applied if travelling on a tour that starts before 30 June 2026: $80AUD Total Paid direct. $30 EMC Levy, $20 port fuel and reef levy - Great Barrier Reef, $30 insurance - Fraser Island Adventure.

From 1 July 2026, an optional 'K'gari' Fraser Island Camping insurance is available for $30 if you wish to drive a vehicle during the Island Experience component of the tour.

 

We recommend a travel budget of approx $80-$100/ day for meals when not included in the itinerary.

ABOUT THE TOUR

 

Our 3 Week East Coast Australia Highlights tour is the perfect way to experience the best of the East Coast in a shorter timeframe. Starting in Sydney and finishing in Cairns, you will visit iconic locations and enjoy unforgettable experiences with everything organised for you.

 

Our tours are fully guided by a Group Leader for your entire journey. From the moment you join the trip, everything is organised for you, allowing you to focus on enjoying each destination and making the most of your time in Australia. The itinerary is designed with a mix of included highlights and free time, giving you the flexibility to personalise your experience while still enjoying the structure and social side of a group tour.

 

ABOUT YOU

This East Coast Australia Highlights tour is designed for travellers aged 18 to 35 who want to see the best of Australia in a fun and social environment. It is ideal for those on shorter trips who still want a full East Coast experience.

Many travellers join solo, so you do not need to come with friends. If you are looking to meet like minded people, experience Australia and make the most of your time, this trip is for you.

 

ORIENTATION WALKS

We include an Orientation Walk at most stops along the itinerary. These are short guided walks with your Group Leader when you arrive in a new destination, helping you get your bearings and understand the layout of the area.

You will be shown key landmarks, main streets, transport points and local hangouts, along with tips on food, nightlife and activities. These are quick and practical, designed to help you make the most of your time in each destination.

 

TRANSPORT

We travel from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef using a mix of public transport and long distance coaches. Our transport includes air conditioning, reclining seats, WiFi, USB chargers and onboard toilets, making travel between destinations comfortable.

Some journeys are completed overnight to maximise your time in each location, allowing you to travel while you sleep and arrive ready to explore.

 

 

TRAVEL STYLE

This is a social East Coast Australia tour with a faster paced itinerary designed to cover key highlights. You will have a balance of included experiences and free time, with all major transport and logistics organised for you.

 

GROUP VIBE

The vibe is friendly, social and fun, and plenty of travellers join solo. Days are filled with exploring, activities and travel between destinations, while still allowing time to relax and enjoy each stop.

Nights vary depending on your group, from relaxed evenings to bigger nights out. The experience is shaped by the people you are travelling with, and we aim to create a balanced trip so you can enjoy it in a way that suits your style.

 

WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT

This is a fully guided East Coast Australia group tour, not a semi guided package. Your Group Leader travels with you for the entire itinerary, providing consistent support and making sure everything runs smoothly.

This means you can enjoy a proper group experience from start to finish, without needing to organise anything yourself.

 

WHY TRAVEL THIS WAY

This tour is ideal if you want to experience the highlights of the East Coast without spending months travelling. Everything is organised for you, making it a time efficient, social and stress free way to explore Australia.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Whilst our tours include a great mix of activities and experiences, you also have the option to add extra activities to customise your trip.

 

There are two ways to book optional extras. You can prebook activities during the booking process by simply adding them at checkout, or by contacting our team before your tour and we can add them to your booking for prepayment.

 

Alternatively, you can book activities once your tour begins. Your Group Leader will run through all available options in your first week, and you can choose what you would like to do as you travel. Many of the most popular activities, such as skydives, have spaces held in advance, however they must be confirmed and paid shortly after your tour starts.

 

You can pay for optional activities on tour via secure mobile payment links using credit card, debit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay.

 

Prices are the same whether you prebook or book locally on tour, so you have the flexibility to decide what suits your travel style.

 

You can also view information on some of the most popular optional activities through the ULTIMATE Travel App, available on the App Store and Google Play.

 

Whether you want to skydive, bungy jump, go white water rafting, explore the Daintree Rainforest or extend your stay in Cairns, optional extras give you the flexibility to build your own ULTIMATE travel experience.

 


SYDNEY ADD-ON

Explore Sydney before your East Coast adventure begins with our 3-day guided Sydney arrival package.

  • 3 nights accommodation at Sydney's best backpacker hostel
  • City orientation tour - explore all the highlights
  • Iconic Sydney Harbour Cruise onboard the Ultimate Catamaran

 

 

OUTBACK ADD-ON

Experience Outback Australia on our 3-day tour of the iconic Red Centre. Visit the sacred sites of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, sleep in an Aussie swag under the stars and learn about Aboriginal history and current day Aboriginal culture.

 

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Looking to do a stopover on the way to Australia? Join our Ultimate guided tours in Thailand, and Bali!

Want to explore another part of Australia or keen for an activity we haven't mentioned? Let us know! We're the Aussie travel experts and are here to help you plan your dream adventure Down Under!

HOW TO BOOK

To book this Sydney to Great Barrier Reef East Coast Highlights Tour, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour. If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit. 

 

  • Book your flights into Sydney (not included)
  • Organise your travel insurance which is required to participate in this tour (not included)

 

TOUR INFORMATION

Tour starts in Sydney (1pm Start)
Tour ends in Cairns (10am on Checkout)

 

IMPORTANT ITINERARY INFORMATION

Day 19 and 20 of the itinerary are interchangeable, and the order of activities is subject to change. Your Great Barrier Reef Day Trip may occur on either Day 19 or Day 20,  your Group Leader will confirm this at the start of your tour. This full day trip includes snorkelling, and you are safe to fly within 24 hours after snorkelling. Introductory scuba dives are also available as an optional upgrade, which can be organised and booked on the day of your trip. Please note that diving introduces a risk of decompression sickness (commonly known as “the bends”) due to nitrogen build-up in the body. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that you do not fly for at least 24 hours after diving. If you choose to upgrade to a dive, you must take this recommendation into account when planning your onward travel. You accept full responsibility for ensuring that your flight schedule aligns with this safety window. Ultimate cannot guarantee the exact day your Great Barrier Reef trip will operate, but you should plan for it to most likely take place on Day 20.

 

LOCAL CHARGES (Paid direct on arrival)

We have done our best to include the key touring components but have listed the below fee's 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

 

 

INCLUSIONS
ABOUT THE TOUR
WHERE WE STAY
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
HOW TO BOOK
INCLUSIONS
  • Airport arrival transfer
  • All transport from Sydney to Cairns
  • Ultimate East Coast Group Leader - available 24/7 on tour
  • 20 nights’ Hostel Accommodation
  • Sydney City Tour
  • Visit Byron Bay Lighthouse
  • Behind Byron Bay Tour - Visit Lennox Head, Lake Ainsworth and Killen Falls
  • City Orientation Walks in Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Airlie Beach and Cairns
  • 3 day Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure
  • 3 day  K'gari Fraser Island Camping Adventure
  • Australia Zoo Day Trip
  • Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Trip
  • 4 x Breakfast 5 x Lunch 6 x Dinner

 

Local fees applied if travelling on a tour that starts before 30 June 2026: $80AUD Total Paid direct. $30 EMC Levy, $20 port fuel and reef levy - Great Barrier Reef, $30 insurance - Fraser Island Adventure.

From 1 July 2026, an optional 'K'gari' Fraser Island Camping insurance is available for $30 if you wish to drive a vehicle during the Island Experience component of the tour.

 

We recommend a travel budget of approx $80-$100/ day for meals when not included in the itinerary.

ABOUT THE TOUR

Our 3 Week East Coast Australia Highlights tour is the perfect way to experience the best of the East Coast in a shorter timeframe. Starting in Sydney and finishing in Cairns, you will visit iconic locations and enjoy unforgettable experiences with everything organised for you.

 

ABOUT YOU

This tour is for travellers aged 18 to 35 looking for a fun and social way to explore Australia. Many people join solo, making it easy to meet others and travel together.

 

ORIENTATION WALKS

At most stops, your Group Leader will take you on a short Orientation Walk so you can quickly get your bearings and discover the best local spots.

 

TRANSPORT

You will travel up the East Coast using comfortable long distance coaches with features such as WiFi, USB chargers and onboard toilets. Some journeys are overnight to maximise your time.

 

TRAVEL STYLE

This is a social tour with a mix of included experiences and free time. The itinerary is slightly faster paced to cover key highlights, with all major plans organised for you.

 

GROUP VIBE

The vibe is friendly and social. Some days are busy and active, while others allow time to relax. Nights can vary depending on your group, and we aim to create a balanced experience to suit different travel styles.

 

WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT

This is a fully guided tour, not semi guided. Your Group Leader is with you throughout the trip, making everything easy and helping you get the most out of your experience.

 

WHY TRAVEL THIS WAY

This is the easiest and most time efficient way to experience the East Coast, with everything organised so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

WHERE WE STAY

The Ultimate East Coast Sydney to Great Barrier Reef Highlights tour includes 20 nights total.

 

We've included 13-nights dorm accommodation in the very best hostels on the Aussie East Coast. You'll be staying in a beachfront hostel, resort-style flashpacker accommodation and a leafy island bungalow with an on-site wildlife park. You'll also spend 2 nights sailing around the Whitsunday Islands and 2-nights camping on Fraser Island.

 

Accommodation is based on 4-8 bed shared dorm arrangements. Upgrades to private rooms are available.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Whilst our tours include a great mix of activities and experiences, you also have the option to add extra activities to customise your trip.

 

There are two ways to book optional extras. You can prebook activities during the booking process by simply adding them at checkout, or by contacting our team before your tour and we can add them to your booking for prepayment.

 

Alternatively, you can book activities once your tour begins. Your Group Leader will run through all available options in your first week, and you can choose what you would like to do as you travel. Many of the most popular activities, such as skydives, have spaces held in advance, however they must be confirmed and paid shortly after your tour starts.

 

You can pay for optional activities on tour via secure mobile payment links using credit card, debit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay.

 

Prices are the same whether you prebook or book locally on tour, so you have the flexibility to decide what suits your travel style.

 

You can also view information on some of the most popular optional activities through the ULTIMATE Travel App, available on the App Store and Google Play.

 

Whether you want to skydive, bungy jump, go white water rafting, explore the Daintree Rainforest or extend your stay in Cairns, optional extras give you the flexibility to build your own ULTIMATE travel experience.

 


SYDNEY ADD-ON

Explore Sydney before your East Coast Sydney to Barrier Reef adventure begins with our 3-day guided Sydney arrival package.

  • 3 nights accommodation at Sydney's best backpacker hostel
  • City orientation tour - explore all the highlights
  • Iconic Sydney Harbour Cruise onboard the Ultimate Catamaran

 

OUTBACK ADD-ON

Experience Outback Australia on our 3-day tour of the iconic Red Centre. Visit the sacred sites of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, sleep in an Aussie swag under the stars and learn about Aboriginal history and current day Aboriginal culture.

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Looking to do a stopover on the way to Australia? Join our Ultimate guided tours in Thailand and Bali!

Want to explore another part of Australia or keen for an activity we haven't mentioned? Let us know! We're the Aussie travel experts and are here to help you plan your dream adventure Down Under!

HOW TO BOOK

To book this Sydney to Barrier Reef East Coast Highlights tour, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour. If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit.

  • Book your flights into Sydney (not included)
  • Organise your travel insurance (not included and required to participate in the tour)

 

TOUR INFORMATION

Tour starts in Sydney (1pm Meeting Time)
Tour ends in Cairns (10am on Checkout)

 

IMPORTANT ITINERARY INFORMATION

Day 19 and 20 of the itinerary are interchangeable, and the order of activities is subject to change. Your Great Barrier Reef Day Trip may occur on either Day 19 or Day 20 — your Group Leader will confirm this at the start of your tour. This full-day trip includes snorkelling, and you are safe to fly within 24 hours after snorkelling. Introductory scuba dives are also available as an optional upgrade, which can be organised and booked on the day of your trip. Please note that diving introduces a risk of decompression sickness (commonly known as “the bends”) due to nitrogen build-up in the body. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that you do not fly for at least 24 hours after diving. If you choose to upgrade to a dive, you must take this recommendation into account when planning your onward travel. You accept full responsibility for ensuring that your flight schedule aligns with this safety window. Ultimate cannot guarantee the exact day your Great Barrier Reef trip will operate, but you should plan for it to most likely take place on Day 20.

 

LOCAL CHARGES (Paid direct on arrival)

We have done our best to include the key touring components but have listed the below fee's 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

> WHERE WE GO 

DAY 1 WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA

Today our East Coast Sydney to Great Barrier Reef  Highlights tour kicks off in Sydney with a City Orientation tour. We will visit all of the cities famous landmarks and finish at the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House! Tonight, we depart the city on our journey up the East Coast. First stop, the vibrant Byron Bay.

DAYS 2-3 Byron Bay

After settling into our beachfront Byron Bay accommodation, we will explore town to get familiar with the laid back bohemian vibes this spot is known for. The Byron Bay lighthouse is situated on Cape Byron, an area so naturally beautiful it’s begging you to explore on foot. The coastal walking track is the best way to take it all in! We will also explore the surrounding area visiting Killen Falls, Lenox Head and Lake Ainsworth.

DAYS 4 -5 Surfers Paradise

This morning we bid farewell to Byron and arrived at the famous Surfers Paradise where we’ll spend the night! On arrival, we will go explore the golden sands of Surfers Paradise Beach and have the option to see the views from the tallest building in Australia! This evening we will head out and discover the endless entertainment on offer in this lively town.

DAYS 6 – 7 Brisbane

We continue our travels up to Brisbane, the capital of the Queensland state. We spend our first day exploring the Southbank cultural precinct of the city. The Southbank parklands feature the man-made Streets Beach (outdoor swimming pools!), walking tracks and picnic areas. Our second day is spent at the home of the crocodile hunter, Australia Zoo! Our day will be spent learning about the conservation efforts of the famous Irwin family and exploring the variety of native Australian wildlife. 

DAYS 8 – 12 K’GARI Fraser Island

The start of our second week on the East Coast involves arriving into Rainbow Beach, one of the gateways to the World’s largest sand island.  On arrival, we will head to the famous Rainbow Steps and ‘Carlo Sand Blow’, a unique “moonscape” sand mass covering over 15 hectares! Over the coming days, we will adventure K’gari (Fraser Island) and swim the crystal waters of secret lakes, explore the Maheno shipwreck and hike to various island lookouts for stunning panoramic views across the island. We return to Rainbow Beach for a night before catching an overnight bus to Airlie Beach.  Not included: $20 insurance payable on arrival. $10 Sleeping Bag Hire

DAYS 13-17 AIRLIE BEACH & WHITSUNDAYS

When we are done exploring the majestic Fraser Island, we continue our journey to Airlie Beach, home to the Whitsundays Islands, made up of 74 island wonders. We settle into the vibrant coastal town and explore the local lagoons before boarding our Sailing Boat for a two night sail around the Whitsunday Islands! You will be treated to the perfect mixture of adventure and relaxation. Take it easy on deck while you sail around the islands, stopping off to snorkel, swim and explore the world famous Whitehaven beach.

DAY 18 CAIRNS

The final stop on our journey is Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the adventure capital of Australia! Check into our resort-style accommodation, chill by the pool and settle in ready for an awesome few days ahead!

DAY 19 CAIRNS

Today is a free day on tour and we can spend it however you like! Hang out at the popular Cairns Lagoon, learn more about Australian Indigenous culture or take on more adventures with a Skydive – Cairns has endless adventures on offer! On our second final night in this North Queensland paradise your group leader will be available to help you plan your ongoing adventures and travels.

 

DAYS 20  GREAT BARRIER REEF

Today is our last day on tour and we have the opportunity to spend it on the magnificent Great Barrier Reef! The vessel we travel on caters for snorkelers, certified and introductory divers. Our dive locations on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef (approx 70km offshore) offer outstanding underwater visibility, superb coral formations and abundant, colourful marine life.

Important to Note: Day 19 and 20 of the itinerary are interchangeable, and the order of activities is subject to change. Your Great Barrier Reef Day Trip may occur on either Day 19 or Day 20 — your Group Leader will confirm this at the start of your tour. This full-day trip includes snorkelling, and you are safe to fly within 24 hours after snorkelling. Introductory scuba dives are also available as an optional upgrade, which can be organised and booked on the day of your trip. Please note that diving introduces a risk of decompression sickness (commonly known as “the bends”) due to nitrogen build-up in the body. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that you do not fly for at least 24 hours after diving. If you choose to upgrade to a dive, you must take this recommendation into account when planning your onward travel. You accept full responsibility for ensuring that your flight schedule aligns with this safety window. Ultimate cannot guarantee the exact day your Great Barrier Reef trip will operate, but you should plan for it to most likely take place on Day 20.

 

 

DAYS 21 TOUR FAREWELLS

Today our East Coast Adventure comes to an end and we bid farewell to our new friends and the East Coast.

Tour Ends 10am

> WHERE WE STAY

The Ultimate East Coast Sydney to Great Barrier Reef Highlights tour includes 20 nights total.

  • We’ve included 13-nights dorm accommodation in the very best hostels on the Aussie East Coast. You’ll be staying in a beachfront hostel and some resort-style flashpacker accommodations.
  • You’ll also spend 2 nights sailing around the Whitsunday Islands and 2-nights camping on K’gari (Fraser Island.)
  • Accommodation is based on 6-10 bed shared dorm arrangements.
  • Twin share and Private  rooms upgrades are available.

> TOUR FAQS

WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?
WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?
WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?
CAN I BOOK EXTRA ACTIVITIES?
WHAT IS AN ORIENTATION WALK?
CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?
ARE MEALS INCLUDED?
WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER MY TOUR?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?
IS THERE FREE TIME ON THIS TOUR?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION
IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?
WHO IS THIS TRIP DESIGNED FOR?
HOW DO I BOOK?
JOINING A TOUR WAITLIST
WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?

The East Coast Highlights tour starts in Sydney and ends in Cairns. At the end of your adventure your Group Leader can help you to arrange onward travel. You can continue your adventure with our Outback add-on or select a return transfer to take you to the airport at the end of the tour.

 

WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?

You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-30-somethings from all over the world, and a Group Leader. Group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of approximately 10-24 people.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

The accommodation on this trip is a mix of Hostel – mixed gender multishare and camping in unpowered tents. The minimum age for this trip is 18 years old.

CAN I BOOK EXTRA ACTIVITIES?

There is many optional activities you can add onto your tour. These are the recommended adds-ons created by Ultimate:

 

Optional activities

  • Skydive 
  • Cape Tribulation 
  • Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays scenic flight 
  • White water rafting 
  • Whitsundays jet ski tour 
WHAT IS AN ORIENTATION WALK?

We include an Orientation Walk at most stops of our itinerary. It is a short and guided walk with your group leader when you arrive at a new destination. It’s designed to help you get your bearings, understand the layout of the area, and learn where everything is. We’ll show you key landmarks, main streets, transport points, and local hangouts. You’ll also get insider tips on food, nightlife, activities, and the best ways to spend your free time. Our Orientation Walks are not formal, history heavy tours. While we’ll share some fun facts and local insights, the focus is on helping you experience the destination rather than providing an in depth historical guide. Most Orientation Walks take around 10 to 30 minutes depending on the destination. Orientation Walks are included in most itinerary stops where it adds value and helps you get familiar with the destination.

CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?

We are unable to book flights, but we always recommend using online search engines to research the best available flight routes, prices and times. To ease your experience, we suggest booking via a Travel Agent or directly with your preferred airline. 

 

Travel insurance is required to participate in this tour. We recommend that you find and compare various policies to ensure you have an appropriate level of coverage for you adventure. Not sure where to start? You can find some trusted Travel Insurers here.

ARE MEALS INCLUDED?

Australia has no shortage of incredible food and when travelling on our East Coast tour, we make sure we include some iconic Australian BBQ’s. For this tour there will be 4 x Breakfasts, 5 x Lunches, and 6 x Dinners included. 

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER MY TOUR?

At the end of your tour you'll be full of emotions and some amazing memories, but the adventure doesn't have to stop there! If you’re unsure of what to do after your package ends, talk to your leader or drop us an email or give us a call – we’re happy to give you recommendations on what to do next! If you’ve got the travel bug our friendly travel experts can talk you through some options – and even set you up with some sweet deals on discounted travel!

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?

The great thing is, there is no bad time to travel to Australia! The country is so vast that depending when and where you plan on travelling you're always likely to hit some sun! At certain times of the year there can be tropical storms in some locations across Australia, there can be hot, humid weather and there can be beautiful sunny skies with a cooler breeze. As you'll be travelling such a wide area from South to North you are likely to experience a bit of everything. Please Note - We cannot predict the weather and cannot guarantee perfect days, but we will do our best to make the most of days when Mother Nature isn't in our favour!

IS THERE FREE TIME ON THIS TOUR?

Our East Coast Highlights tour is our most fast paced tour style. There is a key activity included at every stop and your Group Leader will be sure to tell you when you have free time throughout the itinerary. 

CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

In most cases, we can cater to Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets. We will make every effort to cater to all other diets and needs, but we are unable to guarantee this will be possible in every location we visit. Unfortunately we will not cater for tastes or dislikes. We will ask you to re-confirm any dietary requirements with your Group Leader at the start of your trip.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION

If you have an existing medical condition or disability that may affect your trip or how we deliver our experience, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of your booking. You may be asked to obtain a medical certificate and if we reasonably feel we are unable to accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking.

 

IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?

Yes. It is mandatory that you travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover the likes of cancellation, personal injury and medical expenses. By joining us on tour, you acknowledge that you have obtained a policy and are covered. You are responsible for reading and understanding the details of the policy that you are taking out. You should book your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip.

 

WHO IS THIS TRIP DESIGNED FOR?

Our East Coast Highlights tour is designed for travellers 18-35 that wish to experience the best of the East Coast in a short period of time. The Ultimate East Coast Highlights tour is a fast-tracked tour packed full of inclusions, visiting all the hot spots on the coast in 3 weeks.  The tour requires a moderate level of fitness. We spend 2-4 nights in each location and activities are included at each stop. 

HOW DO I BOOK?

To book our East Coast Highlights tour, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour and where you can meet others booked onto your start date! Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable $300AUD deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date. Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!

JOINING A TOUR WAITLIST

Looking to book a departure date that is already fully booked? You can join our waiting list for a specific tour date via the tour page. When you join our waitlist, you are required to provide a credit card to verify your waitlist request. We will not charge your card at the time of the waitlist. If a tour space becomes available, we will notify you via email and charge your card once you reconfirm your participation.  If you wish to join the waitlist for multiple dates, please join the waitlist for your first preferred date and enter your travel period in the booking notes. 

WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?
WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?
WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?
CAN I BOOK ANY EXTRAS WITH MY TRIP?
CAN I BOOK EXTRA NIGHTS?
CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?
ARE THERE ANY EXTRA FEES?
ARE MEALS INCLUDED?
IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?
IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?
IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?
ARE PRIVATE ROOM UPGRADES AVAILABLE?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION?
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY IS RECOMMENDED?
HOW DO I BOOK?
JOINING A TOUR WAITLIST
WHAT IS AN ORIENTATION WALK?
WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?

The Ultimate East Coast Sydney to Great Barrier Reef Highlights tour starts in Sydney and ends in Cairns. At the end of your adventure your Group Leader can help you to arrange onward travel. You can continue your adventure with our Outback add-on or select a return transfer to take you to the airport at the end of the tour.

 

Main Tour Meeting Point: WakeUp Hostel Sydney Central at 1pm Wednesdays. 

Sydney 'Add-on' Meeting Point: WakeUp Hostel Sydney Central. 11.30am Mondays.

Tour End Point: Gilligan's Hostel and Resort Cairns at 10am on Tuesdays. 

 

WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?

You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-30-somethings from all over the world, and a fully licensed tour guide available 24/7 whilst on tour. Group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of approximately 10-24 people.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

We stay at some of the most popular hostels along the Australian East Coast. All prices are based on shared accommodation in 4 or 12 share dorm style rooms. Twin and private room upgrades are available to book but are subject to availability and single supplement charges. Note: Twin and Private room upgrades are not available on the Whitsundays, Fraser Island or overnight buses. Twin and Single room upgrades may still have shared bathroom facilities.

CAN I BOOK ANY EXTRAS WITH MY TRIP?

We have a range of extras that you can add on to your East Coast Tour: Want to explore a bit more of Sydney? Choose our 3-day/3-night Sydney add-on. Includes 3 nights accommodation in Sydney, a city explorer tour, welcome dinner and Sydney Harbour cruise! Keen for more after your East Coast Adventure? Get the real Aussie Outback experience with our Red Centre Outback add-on! Various activity add-ons on your way up the coast including: Skydive, bungy jump, white water rafting, waterfall tours and more! Simply add your extras on when you check out. If you are not ready to book optional activities just yet, our Group Leader can assist you once your tour begins. 

CAN I BOOK EXTRA NIGHTS?

If you need additional nights before or after your trip, just add them to your booking when you checkout. Not sure if you need extra nights? Get in touch to chat with a member of the crew before or after you book. If you are arriving early into Sydney or want to explore more of the harbour city before starting your trip, book our guided Sydney arrival package which includes 3 nights accommodation pre-tour, a city orientation tour to explore all the highlights, and an iconic Harbour cruise on board the Ultimate Catamaran.

CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?

We are unable to book flights, but we always recommend using online search engines to research the best available flight routes, prices and times. To ease your experience, we suggest booking via a Travel Agent or directly with your preferred airline. 

 

Travel insurance is required to participate in this tour. We recommend that you find and compare various policies to ensure you have an appropriate level of coverage for you adventure. Not sure where to start? You can find some trusted Travel Insurers here.

ARE THERE ANY EXTRA FEES?

 

We have done our best to include all fees 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. 

ARE MEALS INCLUDED?

Australia has no shortage of incredible food and when travelling on our East Coast tours, we make sure we include some iconic Australian BBQ’s. Please refer to the tour itinerary and inclusions for a list of included meals, but please note that meals are generally not included and we recommend you account for meals and drinks in your budgeting

IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?

An airport shuttle on arrival is included. During the booking process, or once you have booked your flights, supply us with your full flight details and we'll arrange the shuttle to take you to the tour meeting point. You can arrive up to three days before your tour starts and we'll ensure a transfer is available to you. Closer to the start of your tour we'll supply you with details on where to go at the airport to meet your transfer. If you do not receive this email at least one week before your tour then please contact us.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?

The great thing is, there is no bad time to travel to Australia! The country is so vast that depending when and where you plan on travelling you're always likely to hit some sun! At certain times of the year there can be tropical storms in some locations across Australia, there can be hot, humid weather and there can be beautiful sunny skies with a cooler breeze. As you'll be travelling such a wide area from South to North you are likely to experience a bit of everything.

IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?

Yes. It is mandatory that you travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover the likes of cancellation, personal injury and medical expenses. By joining us on tour, you acknowledge that you have obtained a policy and are covered. You are responsible for reading and understanding the details of the policy that you are taking out. You should book your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip.

IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?

An airport shuttle on arrival is included. During the booking process, or once you have booked your flights, supply us with your full flight details and we'll arrange the shuttle to take you to the tour meeting point. You can arrive up to three days before your tour starts and we'll ensure a transfer is available to you. Closer to the start of your tour we'll supply you with details on where to go at the airport to meet your transfer. If you do not receive this email at least one week before your tour then please contact us.

ARE PRIVATE ROOM UPGRADES AVAILABLE?

Twin room and Single room upgrades are available, but are subject to availability and can take up to ten business days to confirm.  Private rooms are not available on our Bus transport, Whitsundays Sailing or Fraser Island Trip components. Please note that Single rooms may have shared bathroom facilities. You can request a Twin or Single room upgrade via the booking process or email our reservations team after you have made your booking. 

CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

In most cases, we can cater to Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets. We will make every effort to cater to all other diets and needs, but we are unable to guarantee this will be possible in every location we visit. Unfortunately we can not cater for tastes or dislikes. We will ask you to re-confirm any dietary requirements with your Group Leader at the start of your trip.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION?

If you have an existing medical condition or disability that may affect your trip or how we deliver our experience, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of your booking. You may be asked to obtain a medical certificate and if we reasonably feel we are unable to accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking.

HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY IS RECOMMENDED?

On our Group Tours, your transport and accommodation along with the meals and activities listed on the itinerary are all included in your tour price. While you are travelling you may wish to participate in additional activities which you will need to budget for. While travelling you may wish to eat and drink out or you may plan to cook and prepare some of your own meals.

As a guide, we recommend you budget an additional $40 - $60AUD per day for spending money. Please note that all travellers are different and you may wish to travel with additional spending money. There are amazing optional activities and food options on offer on the East Coast and if you desire to experience most of them, you may wish to budget for additional spending money.

HOW DO I BOOK?

To book this 'Sydney to Great Barrier Reef' Highlights tour, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour and where you can meet others booked onto your start date! Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable $300AUD  deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date. Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!

 

JOINING A TOUR WAITLIST

Looking to book a departure date that is already fully booked? You can join our waiting list for a specific tour date via the tour page. When you join our waitlist, you are required to provide a credit card to verify your waitlist request. We will not charge your card at the time of the waitlist. If a tour space becomes available, we will notify you via email and charge your card once you reconfirm your participation.  If you wish to join the waitlist for multiple dates, please join the waitlist for your first preferred date and enter your travel period in the booking notes. 

WHAT IS AN ORIENTATION WALK?

We include an Orientation Walk at most stops of our itinerary. It is a short and guided walk with your group leader when you arrive at a new destination. It’s designed to help you get your bearings, understand the layout of the area, and learn where everything is. We’ll show you key landmarks, main streets, transport points, and local hangouts. You’ll also get insider tips on food, nightlife, activities, and the best ways to spend your free time. Our Orientation Walks are not formal, history heavy tours. While we’ll share some fun facts and local insights, the focus is on helping you experience the destination rather than providing an in depth historical guide. Most Orientation Walks take around 10 to 30 minutes depending on the destination. Orientation Walks are included in most itinerary stops where it adds value and helps you get familiar with the destination.

> BOOK TOUR

  • MAKING YOUR BOOKING

    To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email. If you have a travel date in mind but you’re not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a deposit. We’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.  Your final payment is due 45 days before your tour date and you will be sent an automatic reminder. You can make payments on your tour balance sooner or regularly via our website here.   A non refundable 5.25% booking processing fee applies to each booking. The amount is calculated based on the value of your booking.

  • BOOK OPEN DATED

    Book open dated when you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked an open dated tour, you can book on to any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. Book open dated here.

  • MEETING OTHER TRAVELLERS

    Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates! Join the conversation here.

  • BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

    Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date. Date changes are permitted without additional change fees up until 30 days before your scheduled tour date! Check out our full booking policy here.

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