Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for travellers aged 18 to 39 years old.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  Accommodation typically includes hostels and basic lodgings (8 nights, multi-share with 4-8 people), one overnight train experience, and one night in remote beach accommodation. All nights are multi-share and rooms are generally split by gender. You may book a "My Own Room" option for a single room at all night stops if preferred.

• What meals are included as part of the tour?

  The tour includes 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Most included breakfasts are simple (cereal, milk, bread, spreads, juice, tea, instant coffee) to allow for early departures. For other meals, there's flexibility to choose, and groups typically eat together.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this trip?

  An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travellers must be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage. A medical questionnaire is required for those with pre-existing medical conditions.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include enjoying the coastal beauty of Noosa's beaches and national park, discovering the white sands and clear waters of the Whitsundays on a day trip, experiencing the natural wonders and Indigenous culture with an overnight stay on K'gari (Fraser Island), and exploring the tropical charm and adventure activities of Cairns at your own pace.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  You will travel using a variety of modes including private vehicles, buses, an overnight train, a boat, a 4x4 vehicle, ferries, and walking.

• Are there any luggage restrictions for the train journey?

  Yes, only one piece of main luggage and one carry-on are allowed on the Queensland train. An AUD15 fee may be charged for exceeding this allowance. We recommend packing lightly, and you will need a smaller bag for the K'gari overnight excursion as main luggage is left on the mainland.

• Will there be Wi-Fi or internet access readily available?

  Please be aware that Wi-Fi and internet access are not as readily available in Australia as in other parts of the world. There are often additional charges to connect to the internet, and speeds may be slower than what you might be used to.

• What happens if the tour runs over public holidays?

  Over public holidays in Australia (such as Christmas, New Year's Day, Easter, and Anzac Day), there may be some limitations of services and disruptions to schedules. While tours generally operate effectively, there might be closures of optional activities and restaurants, and slight itinerary adjustments.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance covering at least USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. It's strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 20 travellers, with an average group size of 16.

• Is there a group leader on this tour?

  Yes, this trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, who acts as the group manager, leader, and driver. Local guides are also used for specific activities to provide specialized knowledge.

• What are some of the included activities on this tour?

  Included activities feature a K'gari Welcome Ceremony, a 4x4 adventure and an overnight experience on K'gari (including a Twilight Beach Walk & Stories around the campfire), a Noosa Coastal Walk, a full-day Whitsunday excursion with snorkeling, and a visit to Whitehaven Beach. Transport to and from these included activities is provided.

• What optional activities are available in Cairns and how much do they cost?

  In Cairns, optional activities include skydiving (310-400 AUD) and whitewater rafting (138-210 AUD). You can also pre-book a Great Barrier Reef snorkeling activity. If considering scuba diving, a doctor's release is required for those on prescription medications.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage money during the trip?

  The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but your bank may charge foreign purchase fees. ATMs are common, but bring your PIN (many only accept 4-digit PINs). It's best to have a combination of local currency (smaller bills), traveler's cheques, and credit cards. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is also recommended.

• Is tipping customary in Australia?

  Tipping service providers is not customary in Australia or New Zealand, but it is appreciated for outstanding service, usually in quality restaurants (rarely more than 10%). You should not tip local guides unless specifically asked by your CEO. A small tip of 5-10 AUD per person per day for your CEO is optional but not expected.

• What if I miss the welcome meeting on the first day?

  If you arrive later and miss the Welcome Meeting (usually between 5 pm and 7 pm on Day 1), your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any necessary information and morning instructions for the next day.

• Are there any specific rules I should be aware of regarding conduct on the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly against the tour philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex worker services.

• What happens if I encounter problems upon arrival?

  In case of dire need or problems upon arrival, you should first call the local office in Melbourne using the emergency contact numbers provided in your tour documentation. If you have a pre-booked transfer and haven't made contact within 30 minutes of clearing customs, it's recommended to make your own way to the starting hotel and apply for a transfer refund upon your return.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating positive impact through tourism by supporting small community-owned businesses globally. They help Indigenous people, empower women, provide youth employment, and protect the environment, with 100% of donations going directly to their projects.