12-Nights Brisbane, Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef Experience from $3,770

Goway Travel

OFFER ID 1722436

Epic Scenery, Iconic Landmarks, Near the Beach, Wildlife Encounters This independent Australia trip flows from Brisbane’s riverside parks to reef and rainforest in the tropics, ending with Sydney’s icons and Blue Mountains beauty.

Trip Overview :

Uncover the natural wonders and vibrant cities of Australia on this 13-day journey through Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef, and Sydney. Begin in Brisbane, Queensland’s lively capital, where urban charm meets riverside tranquillity. A river cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers a close encounter with Australia’s most iconic animals, while visits to Mount Coot-tha, South Bank, and Kangaroo Point reveal the city's subtropical appeal—from skyline lookouts to lush botanic gardens and leafy river walks.

Next, fly north to Cairns, your base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Spend a day immersed in the reef’s crystal-clear waters, snorkelling among coral gardens or cruising by glass-bottom boat around the Low Isles. Then head into the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where jungle-fringed beaches, freshwater swims, and croc-spotting on the Daintree River immerse you in the wild heart of tropical North Queensland.

Your final stop is Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city. Take in the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from both land and sea—first on a guided tour, then during a long lunch cruise. A full-day trip into the Blue Mountains adds a dramatic final chapter, with plunging waterfalls, weathered rock formations, and ancient landscapes just beyond the city’s edge.

This itinerary blends coastal beauty, cultural highlights, and immersive nature—an ideal way to experience Australia’s rich diversity.



Highlights:
  • Cruise the Brisbane River to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and wander leafy parks beneath subtropical skies.
  • Snorkel or cruise the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, surrounded by vivid coral and tropical marine life.
  • Venture into the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where jungle meets beach in pristine harmony.
  • Explore Sydney’s icons—the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and The Rocks—before a leisurely lunch cruise on the harbour.
  • Discover the Blue Mountains’ misty valleys and waterfalls, a serene finale to this Australian journey.


Included Services:
  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Brisbane
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Port Douglas
  • 4 nights first-class accommodation in Sydney
  • Private full day Brisbane City and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tour
  • Small group Brisbane sightseeing with Morning Tea
  • Small group full day day Sydney Panoramic Tour and Sydney Harbour Cruise Lunch
  • Small group full day Blue Mountains Deluxe Experience*
  • Small group half day Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine
  • Shared full day Low Isle Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise in Port Douglas
  • Shared full day 4WD Cape Tribulation Tour from Port Douglas
  • 4 lunches
    *Guests may substitute a Full Day Hunter Valley Wine Tasting tour.

Excluded Services:
  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Visa fees, if applicable

12 nights from $3,770 per person

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Brisbane

Transfer: Brisbane Airportto Brisbane - City Centre

Hotel: Adina Apartment Hotel Anzac Square (4 Star Rating)

The Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane Anzac Square has thrown open its doors on a million-dollar makeover, which has transformed the inner-city heritage gem into a sophisticated spot for CBD stays.


With views across Anzac Square memorial gardens and directly opposite Brisbane’s Central Railway Station, Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane Anzac Square,in the heart of the CBD gives you direct access to the best the city has to offer. Explore the beautiful Botanic Gardens or experience the buzz of South Bank. Indulge in world-class shopping along Queen Street Mall while treating your taste-buds to the city’s best bars and restaurants.




Day 2: Full Day Koala and River Cruise

The Koala and River Cruise is a memorable journey on the Brisbane River to the oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary in the world. The cruise travels through the city's most historic landscapes, iconic attractions, historical home sites and interesting wildlife habitats as you listen to an entertaining and informative commentary.




Day 3: Brisbane Small Group Sightseeing with Morning Tea Tour

The tour will begin in the heart of Brisbane where you’ll get a chance to take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city, with views of iconic landmarks and historic buildings. After a brief introduction to the city, we will make our way towards Mount Coot-tha. At the top, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Brisbane, Moreton Bay, and the surrounding mountains. From there, head to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mount Coot-tha. This beautiful, serene garden offers a peaceful escape with a variety of plant species, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Next, is South Bank Parklands. As we drive through the parklands, you’ll pass by riverside cafes, restaurants and cultural attractions, including the famous Wheel of Brisbane and Streets Beach, adding to the area's charm. Our next stop will be the top of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. This location offers sweeping views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline. We will then head down to Kangaroo Point Park, located just minutes away, where you can enjoy the peaceful riverside atmosphere.

We will continue on to the iconic Story Bridge, crossing over the river while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding areas, including New Farm and the Brisbane downtown area. After crossing the bridge, the tour will take us to New Farm Park, a beautiful green space by the river, where you can relax and take in the scenery. Finally, we will make our way back to Brisbane City




Day 4: Day at Leisure in Brisbane



Day 5: Brisbane to Port Douglas

Transfer: Brisbane - City Centre to Brisbane Airport

Transfer: Cairns Airportto Port Douglas

Hotel: The Peninsula Boutique Hotel Port Douglas (4 Star Rating)

Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel where tropical luxury awaits…


Our Port Douglas accommodation offers a boutique style adults only hotel experience – enjoying an unrivalled beachside location overlooking Four Mile Beach and is the only hotel in Port Douglas with beach and ocean views. 40 metres to the beach and a 2 minute stroll to the heart of Port Douglas with its cosmopolitan boutiques, restaurants and entertainment options.




Day 6: Low Isles Sailing and Snorkelling Cruise

Join your coach transfer to the wharf this morning and board the vessel to enjoy a full day reef and island cruise to Low Isles. Sail to and explore this protected coral cay, with white sandy beaches and coconut palms, surrounded by coral gardens and the Coral Sea. Sailaway moors in the sheltered blue lagoon for five hours. Just relax on the island, join the guided snorkel tour, take a trip on the glass bottom boat or laze on the deck after a buffet lunch. Later, enjoy sailing back to the mainland.




Day 7: Cape Tribulation Daintree from Port Douglas

Your tour begins with being met by your friendly accredited guide at your accommodation. After introductions, drive north along the magnificent scenic coastal route learning about the history of the area and admiring spectacular views of the coastline and the Azure waters of the Coral Sea. The first stop is at the Majestic Daintree River for refreshments before enjoying an informative River Cruise. Relax and enjoy the splendour only the Daintree Rainforest can offer as you learn of Estuarine Crocodiles, mangrove forests and endemic wildlife. Next, we make our way up over the Alexandra Range and pause for a panoramic view of World Heritage, Wet Tropics, and Tropical Rainforest merging with the azure colours of the Coral Sea.


Your guide will take you on a journey through ancient Daintree Rainforest, whilst giving you an interpretation of flora and fauna. You will have ample time for photographs and questions as we search for the elusive, rare and totally unique Southern Cassowary and other wildlife species. Enjoy lunch in a beautiful rainforest setting with opportunity for an invigorating rainforest swim. For over 50,000 years, Cape Tribulation beach (Kalkajaka) has held immense cultural significance for the local Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, while providing modern day visitors the unique opportunity to witness the only place on earth where two World Heritage Listed sites converge - where rainforest meets the reef.


The day concludes with a delicious tropical fruit ice-cream followed by a cable ferry crossing back over the Daintree River before returning to your accommodation late afternoon.




Day 8: Day at Leisure in Port Douglas



Day 9: Port Douglas to Sydney

Transfer: Port Douglas to Cairns Airport

Transfer: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airportto Sydney - City Centre

Hotel: Paradox Sydney (5 Star Rating)

Set within a beautifully restored 169-year-old sandstone building in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Paradox Sydney blends timeless elegance with bold individuality. More than a luxury hotel, it’s a destination where heritage meets modern design, and every detail reflects the city’s vibrant spirit. Whether you're here for business or discovery, Paradox Sydney invites you to rest, connect, and return transformed.




Day 10: Sydney Panoramic Tour and Sydney Harbour Cruise Lunch

Depart your hotel for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day city sights tour. On tour you will visit the historic Rocks area and hear of early convict history. We continue through the financially focused Central Business District (CBD), and Macquarie Street. Marvel at 19th century sandstone architecture such as NSW Parliament House, Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks and St Mary’s Cathedral. We will continue to Mrs Macquaries Point, to enjoy magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We then continue through Sydneys Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Travelling along the coves and shores of one of the world’s most impressive harbours, we will take a few stops for photo opportunities, including a panoramic photo of Sydney skyline. You will pass through areas such as Kings Cross, Double Bay, Rose Bay before arriving at Watsons Bay.Time permitting, you may have the option for a short coastal walk with views of the South Pacific Ocean and the entrance to Sydney harbour.


Travel on to famous Bondi Beach for a 30-minute stop. Visit the beachfront promenade, put your toes in the sand, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and surfers riding the waves of Bondi. Re-board your bus and continue on to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Centennial Park and Paddington, a trendy district with its elegant terrace houses and boutique shops along Oxford Street.


Arrive at Circular Quay for your Sydney Harbour lunch cruise. Departing from the Eastern Pontoon @ 12 noon you will spend 2 relaxing hours discovering the secrets of one of the world’s most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck. Included is an expansive fresh buffet including seafood and beverages are also included


Your cruise concludes at 2.15pm at Circular quay and on arrival, make your way at leisure back to your hotel. Your cruise includes a full buffet lunch with a mix of hot and cold selections, and fresh seafood, as well as a beverage package.




Day 11: Blue Mountains Deluxe Experience

The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.


7:00 - 7:30 AM Depart from the hotel with AEA Luxury Tours. Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.


From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide.


Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.


We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch with One NON Alcoholic Beverage Per person. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Additional Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.


The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop at the delightful Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road and its fruit orchard industry. We arrive back at your hotel approximately 4.30 - 5.00pm.




Day 12: Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine

Step inside the iconic Sydney Opera House and discover the extraordinary stories of one of the globe's most recognized landmarks. Throughout your experience, the passionate guide will take you inside theatres and foyers that are otherwise off-limits, while letting you in on some insider secrets pertaining to the history of the building and the people who were behind its creation. Following the tour, soak up the views while enjoying your choice of the main meal at the Opera Bar (an iconic Sydney venue focusing on Australian cuisines), House Canteen (a harbourside all-day hawker-style venue offering pan-Asian cuisine), or Midden by Mark Olive (Celebrates Ambassador Chef Mark Olive’s Indigenous Australian heritage with a menu focused on native Australian ingredients), accompanied by a refreshing beverage (either wine, beer, or soft drink).

No reservations are required to dine and your meal and beverage is available before or after your tour. At Opera Bar and House Canteen the meal and beverage is available from 11.30am to 6pm. On arrival please find a table before making your way to the bar and presenting your Tour & Dine ticket to bar staff. At Midden by Mark Olive the meal and beverage is available between 11.30am-2.30pm for lunch and 5pm-6pm for dinner. On arrival to Midden, please present your Tour & Dine ticket to wait staff before being seated.




Day 13: Depart from Sydney

Transfer: Sydney - City Centre to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport



Featured Destinations
Sydney
Port Douglas
Brisbane

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges
09/26/2026 - 12/31/2028
from $3,770 per person


* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
Prices Start At
from $3,770 per person
Length
12 Nights
Air City
Call for airfares from your city.
Vacation Rating
Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.
Remarks
Pricing is dynamic and subject to change based on specific travel dates, room categories and availability. Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travelers are available on request - please inquire with your Travel Advisor.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID
1722436

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Rio Grande Travel Centers, Inc.

6500 Holly Ave. NE Suite A-2
Albuquerque, NM 87113
USA

(505) 292-7044
(877) 768-7913