Melbourne to Cairns Explorer - 50 Days

Welcome to Melbourne and the ULTIMATE East Coast Explorer adventure. This afternoon you will meet your tour guide and new travel mates at 12pm 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.

Tour Meeting Time: 12pm Accommodation: Selina Hostel CBD

Have a chilled morning and this afternoon we explore more of the famous beachside hotspot - St Kilda. We will hang out at the popular St Kilda Beach and visit the promenade, at dusk you might even get lucky and see some Fairy Penguins from the pier.

Included Activity: St Kilda Tour Accommodation: Nomads St Kilda (or similar)

This morning we learn a popular Aussie local activity, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) at the iconic St.Kilda Beach. The SUP instructors will have you paddling effectively in a short period of time, and ensure you leave with adequate knowledge to paddle on your own for your time down under. The afternoon is free to continue exploring before the group gets back together this evening to explore Melbourne's Nightlife! We will visit iconic venues and Australia's best social scene!

Included Activity: Stand Up Paddle Boarding Accommodation: Nomads St Kilda (or similar)

After a fun night out exploring Melbourne's famous nightlife, have a sleep in and we will get together and check out the beautiful Botanical Gardens. This afternoon we have a free day to explore the Melbourne local social scene, your Group Leader will give you plenty of recommendations.

Accommodation: Nomads St Kilda (or similar)

Exhilarate your senses with a full-day visit to the award-winning coastal oasis known as the Peninsula Hot Springs, only 90 mins from Melbourne. An idyllic escape for some much needed relaxation and thermal bathing with over 50 globally-inspired bathing experiences within the one Bath House. Once you’re completely restored, we’ll head to discover some of the Mornington Peninsula’s other iconic locations. We’ll ascend to the area’s highest point at Arthurs Seat for amazing views out over Port Phillip Bay at Murrays Lookout. Next up, we’ll head to Mt Martha Beach to admire this stunning sandy beach and its vibrant bathing boxes. Be sure to have your camera ready for these two Insta worthy spots! Following a day of exploring, come together with your group for the legendary Red Eye Bar’s infamous Bingo night! Inclusions: Morning Peninsula Hot Springs, Backpacker Bingo and Pizza (farewell meal)

Accommodation: Nomads St Kilda (or similar)

Today we explore the Great Otway National Park and the artistic beachside villages of Apollo Bay and Lorne. We will stop for lunch where we can watch Aussie surfers in action at famed beaches such as Bells Beach and Torquay. And of course there will be photo opportunities at the famous Twelve Apostles.

Accommodation: Nomads St Kilda (or similar)

Today is our last day exploring Melbourne. Your group leader will help coordinate any additional experiences you may want to do, or continue hanging out in the city or beach at your own leisure. Tonight you get the overnight bus departing Melbourne. Tomorrow you arrive at the Harbour City.

Accommodation: Overnight Coach

Welcome to Australia! Meet at WakeUp! Reception at 11:30am. 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, phone and money for lunch. Tour Start: 11.30am Meal(s): Dinner

Included Activity(s): Sydney City Walk. Visit Botanical Gardens, Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, Darling Harbour and more.

Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney (or similar)

This morning feel free to explore more of the city, 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, phone and ID to buy drinks. (BBQ lunch included).

Included Activity(s): 3 Hour Private Sydney Harbour Charter. Swimming at Local Harbour Coves Meal(s): Australian BBQ Lunch Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney

Today we visit the famous Bondi Beach! In the morning we travel to Coogee before taking in the sites along the coast via the local and famous ‘Coogee to Bondi’ coastal walk! After stopping at all the local beaches and taking in the views, we will arrive to the renowned Bondi where we can explore the Graffiti walls famous in Bondi or simply chill on Australia's most famous beach! Bring your swimmers, comfy shoes & some money for a few drinks. The afternoon is at your leisure. We will return to Sydney late in the day via train. Included Activity(s): Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. Free Time at Bondi Beach Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney (or similar)

Today we continue to explore Sydney's famous beaches! We will take the commuter ferry from Circular Quay through the Sydney Headlands before arriving at Manly Beach. You can explore the local markets or join a walk to Shelly Beach in the afternoon. Included Activity(s): Manly Ferry. Free time exploring Manly Beach Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney (or similar)

We meet in reception at 7.00am 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 Group Leader 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. Meal(s): Picnic Lunch Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney (or similar)

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, Visit Jervis Bay (the whitest sand beach in the world), taste wine in the Hunter Valley, or have a chat to us about some of our other fun options! Meet at WakeUp Reception at 7.00pm. Your Ultimate Party Night includes entry into 3 bars and 3 free drinks. Bring your ID and dress to impress! (no flip flops) Included Activity(s): Sydney Pub Crawl. 3 Venues, 3 Welcome Drinks. Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney (or similar)

Today is our last day in Sydney. It is free for you to continue exploring alongside your Group Leader or by participating in an optional activity! Tomorrow we are joined by new tour mates as our East Coast adventure officially begins. Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Sydney

Join on the Sydney city walking tour again to meet the rest of your group if you wish, or spend the day preparing for what's to come. Meet your Group Leader and group at the Ultimate HQ at 5:30pm for an orientation talk before grabbing your bags and heading to the bus. 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! Accommodation: Overnight Sleeper Bus

Welcome to Byron Bay! Once we arrive at this boho hub of the East Coast, we'll check in to our beachfront hostel and your Group Leader will take you on a guided walk of the town and then it's time to hit the beach! Grab a free surfboard 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 (3 hour free hire for ULTIMATE) Meal(s): Welcome Group Dinner Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Byron Bay (or similar)

Days 17, 18 and 19 are combined and the description! below applies to all

Take part in a fun, 2 hour professional surf lesson, so you'll be riding the waves like a pro in no time up the coast! Over the next few days, we'll visit the famous Byron lighthouse to take in the gorgeous ocean views available at the most easterly point of Australia. You will also get the opportunity to have a private yoga lesson, check out the local markets and see the unique nightlife Byron has to offer. Keen to explore more? Your group leader can help organise kayaking with Dolphins or Byron Beach and Waterfalls Tour (optional add on) Included Activity(s): 2 Hour Beginner Surf Lesson, Yoga Lesson, Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Byron Bay (or similar)

Days 17, 18 and 19 are combined and the description! below applies to all

Take part in a fun, 2 hour professional surf lesson, so you'll be riding the waves like a pro in no time up the coast! Over the next few days, we'll visit the famous Byron lighthouse to take in the gorgeous ocean views available at the most easterly point of Australia. You will also get the opportunity to have a private yoga lesson, check out the local markets and see the unique nightlife Byron has to offer. Keen to explore more? Your group leader can help organise kayaking with Dolphins or Byron Beach and Waterfalls Tour (optional add on) Included Activity(s): 2 Hour Beginner Surf Lesson, Yoga Lesson, Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Byron Bay (or similar)

Days 17, 18 and 19 are combined and the description! below applies to all

Take part in a fun, 2 hour professional surf lesson, so you'll be riding the waves like a pro in no time up the coast! Over the next few days, we'll visit the famous Byron lighthouse to take in the gorgeous ocean views available at the most easterly point of Australia. You will also get the opportunity to have a private yoga lesson, check out the local markets and see the unique nightlife Byron has to offer. Keen to explore more? Your group leader can help organise kayaking with Dolphins or Byron Beach and Waterfalls Tour (optional add on) Included Activity(s): 2 Hour Beginner Surf Lesson, Yoga Lesson, Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk Accommodation: WakeUp Hostel Byron Bay (or similar)

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 Included Activity(s): Surfers Paradise City Walk Accommodation: BUNK Hostel (or similar)

Days 21 and 22 are combined and the below description applies to both days!

Spend the day chilling by the pool or exploring the beachfront markets. The next couple of days you have the option to book a Skypoint tower pass with your Group Leader for spectacular views of the Gold Coast, try stand-up paddle boarding or jet boating (optional add on), Surfers Paradise is full of activities so you wont go bored! Accommodation: BUNK Hostel (or similar)

Days 21 and 22 are combined and the below description applies to both days!

Spend the day chilling by the pool or exploring the beachfront markets. The next couple of days you have the option to book a Skypoint tower pass with your Group Leader for spectacular views of the Gold Coast, try stand-up paddle boarding or jet boating (optional add on), Surfers Paradise is full of activities so you wont go bored! Accommodation: BUNK Hostel (or similar)

Next, we'll hop on the bus and head to Brisbane! 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. Take a photo with the Brisbane sign and explore the hustling Queen Street Mall. Included Activity(s): Brisbane City Walk Accommodation: BUNK Hostel Brisbane (or similar)

Days 24 and 25 are combined, the below description applies to both days!

The next couple of days you have the option of heading to the famous Australia Zoo to get up close with some amazing Aussie wildlife (optional add on - includes a return transfer from Brisbane), or go snorkeling in Moreton around the famous shipwrecks! Your Group Leader will tell you all the best spots to go out for a drink, the hostel is right in the centre of it all. Accommodation: BUNK Hostel Brisbane (or similar)

Days 24 and 25 are combined, the below description applies to both days!

The next couple of days you have the option of heading to the famous Australia Zoo to get up close with some amazing Aussie wildlife (optional add on - includes a return transfer from Brisbane), or go snorkeling in Moreton around the famous shipwrecks! Your Group Leader will tell you all the best spots to go out for a drink, the hostel is right in the centre of it all. Accommodation: BUNK Hostel Brisbane (or similar)

Tropical greenery, diverse wildlife, and amazing beaches - Noosa, our next stop, is gorgeous. We'll arrive in the afternoon, chill by the beach and enjoy the hostel activities. We're here for two nights so settle in and make the most of our beautiful surroundings! Accommodation: Flashpackers Noosa (or similar)

Today we'll take a hike over the coastal headlands taking in the amazing sea views and swim in the Fairy Fools. The rest of the day is yours: chill by the pool, grab a surfboard or boogie board from your hostel (free) or check out sunset at Laguna Lookout! You also have the chance to join a Noosa Everglades Adventure (optional add on). The choice is yours! Included Activity(s): Noosa National Park Walk Accommodation: Flashpackers Noosa (or similar)

Our next stop is Rainbow beach, the gateway to our K’gari adventure! Check into your hostel tonight and prepare for your K'gari adventure. Accommodation: Freedom Hostel Rainbow Beach (or similar)

Ready to explore the world's largest sand island? Today, we will begin our K’gari 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! Included Activity(s): 4x4 K’gari Tour Meals(s): Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Camping on K’gari

Take a dip in the amazing clear waters of Lake McKenzie, bathe in the champagne pools, drive on the beach highway and take in all the unique landscapes K’gari has to offer. In the evening, relax by the campfire and disconnect from the outside world. Included Activity(s): 4x4 K’gari Tour Meals(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Camping on K’gari

Start with breakfast on K’gari, before cleaning and packing up the camp site. We then drive to another lake for a swim and lunch, 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 in the afternoon. Have a chilled night, you’ll need it. Included Activity(s): 4x4 K’gari Tour Meals(s): Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Freedom Hostel Rainbow Beach (or similar)

After a good night's sleep, you have the day to rest and recover or continue exploring with some optional activities, Beach Horse Riding, Dolphin Feeding, Turtle Kayaking and more! Today your Group Leader will take you to the Carlo Sand Blow. This iconic sand mass provides great views of the coloured sands, Double Island Lighthouse and Inskip Peninsula. Included Activity(s): Carlo Sand Blow Guided Walk Accommodation: Freedom Hostel Rainbow Beach (or similar)

Today is our last day in Rainbow Beach. Check out the Rainbow Steps, go for one last surf or prepare for your next adventure. This evening, we'll hop on the overnight bus to Airlie beach, arriving the next morning to the gateway to The Whitsundays. Accommodation: Overnight Bus

Check into your hostel before heading out to explore tropical Airlie Beach, taking a dip in the famous harbourfront lagoon. Stroll along Airlies main street with ample stores to shop in, have a cold drink with your mates and check out the local markets. Included Activity(s): Visit Airlie Beach Lagoon Accommodation: Nomads Hostel Airlie Beach (or similar)

Today is a free day to relax in the sun or join onto some of our optional activities. Take a Scenic Flight over The Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach and/or jump on the back of a jetski and check out the waters around the islands - keep an eye out for turtles! Accommodation: Nomads Hostel Airlie Beach (or similar)

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. Included Activity(s): Whitsundays Sailing Meals(s): Dinner. Accommodation: Sailing Boat. Open Cabin Sleeping

We'll spend our time snorkeling in pristine blue waters and visit one of the whitest sandy beaches in the world. Chill with your mates and witness some incredible sunsets! The Whitsundays are breathtaking! Included Activity(s): Whitsundays Sailing. Visit Whitehaven Beach. Snorkeling. Meals(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Sailing Boat. Open Cabin Sleeping

After two amazing days on the boat you’ll have the chance for one more swim, slide down the inflatable slide and jump on a stand up paddle board with your mates before having lunch and heading back to our hostel in Airlie Beach for one more night. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to refresh before you meet your group and the boat crew for dinner and a night out at the After Boat Party. Included Activity(s): Whitsundays Sailing, After Boat Party Meals(s): Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Nomads Hostel Airlie Beach (or similar)

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 Included Activity(s): Return Ferry Transfer to Magnetic Island Accommodation: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)

Maggie, as it’s known by locals, really is a tropical paradise! Today you can snorkel in the pristine island waters, take the guided Fort's walk offering incredible views of the island and spot local wildlife. Included Activity(s): Guided Magnetic Island Forts Walk Accommodation: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)

Want to explore the rest of the island? Rent a 4x4 'Topless Jeep' 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 or Rainbow Lorikeets! Accommodation: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)

Magnetic Island has an on site wildlife park where you can get up close to Aussie wildlife such as koalas, wombats and snakes, talk to your Group Leader about having Breakfast with the Koalas or Wildlife Park entry (optional add on). In the evening enjoy the buzzing hostel bar right on the beach! Accommodation: Nomads Magnetic Island (or similar)

Our next stop is Mission beach, where the rainforest and the reef meet. We'll arrive at our resort in the evening, take the time to relax in the luxury before some big activities! Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort (or similar)

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). Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort (or similar)

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 the 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. We'll be spending the next 5 days here, so settle in and get ready for an exciting few days ahead! Accommodation: Gilligans Resort (or similar)

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! Included Activity(s): Great Barrier Reef Full Day Trip. Snorkeling Meals: Buffet Lunch Local Levy: $20.00 Great Barrier Reef Levy. Accommodation: Gilligans Resort (or similar)

Today will be spent exploring the Tablelands region, swimming under waterfalls, exploring rainforests and sliding down natural rock slides. If you're lucky, you may even see some shy platypuses in the wild or get the chance to swim with a freshwater crocodile! Included Activity(s): Visit Atherton Tablelands, Babinda Boulders, Millaa Millaa Falls and Josephine Falls. Meals: Morning Tea, Lunch Accommodation: Gilligans Resort (or similar)

Today, chill at our hostel pool, join in on pool volleyball, head to the deck bar or start planning the next part of your adventure! We'll take you to our favourite spots to have a farewell dinner and reminisce on the past 5 weeks of adventure over a few beers! Accommodation: Gilligans Resort (or similar)

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!

Tour End): 10.00am

Whether you plan to stay in the tropics, travel elsewhere in Australia or onto a different destination, your Group Leader and the crew at Ultimate HQ will be here to support you and help you plan your adventure! Tour End: 10:00am