The Dingo Select Tour will take you from Brisbane right up to Cairns on this 15-Day adventure. If you’d like to explore the best of the East Coast from rainforests and beaches to picturesque islands and locations of the tourist trail in your own private mini coach, then this tour is definitely for you. Kick back and relax in private twin or double rooms after big days of adventure. With a local guide (who will share their insider knowledge) and a bunch of like-minded travellers (who will become lifelong friends) you’ll explore everything that Aussie has to offer in style!
We believe in MORE! More authentic experiences, more iconic sights, more stops on the way, more connection. Keep a look out for sections in our itinerary where you can See More and Do More, these are unique ways to experience the Real Australia!
WANDERLUST SALE!
Save a massive $699 on the Dingo Brisbane to Cairns tour. Book your dream escape now and travel before 31 January 2026.
=Hurry – offer ends 17 July 2025!
Confirm your place & this amazing deal now with only a $200 deposit and pay the rest in flexi installments. Find out more here.
Tour Highlights:
What's Included:
Only Stray travels by private, air-conditioned bus all the way from Brisbane to Cairns, with a maximum of 22 onboard for your comfort and safety (yewww Aussie road-trip!). See more and do more along the way with stops for walks, waterfalls, swimming holes and quirky towns.
So much more than just your tour guide - expect entertaining stories, great recommendations, extra support and local insider knowledge. They know every inch of this country. You can't get this from a google search!
14 nights’ accommodation in twin or double rooms in a range of hostels, backpacker resorts, eco-lodges, apart from 2 nights K’gari/formerly Fraser Island (glamping tents with ensuites).
Meals
20 meals (12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners)
Top Rated Experiences
Waterfalls, sand islands, sailing, wildlife spotting! There are so many awesome inclusions with the Stray Dingo Sydney to Cairns Select Tour and we can’t wait for you to experience them:
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Spend a night in the buzzing riverside city of Brisbane
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Visit the Sunshine Coast and live it up in the resort town of Noosa
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Embark on a 3-day 4WD Safari to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). Drive along the beach and through the rainforest, visit a shipwreck, swim in crystal clear waters, before relaxing around a campfire under the stars
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Stay in the relaxed seaside town of Bargara, partake in a Coral Farm tour and visit the famous Bundaberg Rum distillery
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Explore the breath-taking Whitsunday Islands on a catamaran sailing day tour visiting the famous Whitehaven Beach, snorkel over amazing fringing reef and enjoy a BBQ lunch onboard with all-inclusive drinks.
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Spend a day checking out the vibrant coastal resort town of Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays
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Embrace your inner nature-lover on Magnetic Island, a wildlife paradise filled with koalas and wallabies
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Take a break at Josephine Falls for a walk through the lush rainforest and optional swim
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Enjoy the relaxed Cairns tropical lifestyle and the fun nightlife that it’s famous for!
Next Available Tour Dates
2025
- 14 September - GUARANTEED
- 12 & 26 October - GUARANTEED
- 9 & 23 November - GUARANTEED
- 07 December - GUARANTEED
2026
- 18 & 25 January - GUARANTEED
- 8 & 22 February
- 8 & 15 March
- 12 & 26 April
- 17 May
- 21 June
- 19 July
- 16 August
- 13 September
- 11 & 25 October
- 8 & 22 November
- 6 December
What we're all about...
Stray are the experts in taking you off the beaten track.
We’re all about finding one-of-a-kind experiences and immersing you in the REAL Australia.
Our epic driver guides will ensure you get the most out of your trip.
Tick off your East Coast bucket list with ease and be introduced to places you wouldn’t discover on your own.
Travel is about creating lasting connections and sharing experiences.
Stray travellers are open minded adventurers who make the most of every moment.
We aim to leave Australia better than we found it, supporting local communities and protecting our environment.
Travel with us and together we can make a positive change.
Itinerary
DOWNLOAD FULL ITINERARY HERE
Brisbane Arrival
Check into our central Brisbane accommodation anytime after 2pm and make yourself at home. If you have time, hop on one of the free CityHopper ferries to explore the city via the Brisbane River. Meet your guide and group at 5pm in the hostel reception and then we recommend heading down to Southbank to check out some of the many bars and restaurants.
Brisbane to Noosa
This morning we say farewell to the city and head back to the Coast and the boutique beach town of Noosa. We’ll stop along the way to stretch our legs and see the amazing panoramic views of the Glasshouse Mountains and the Sunshine Coast before enjoying some lunch in the quirky town of Eumundi, known for its artisanal crafts. We’ll go for another walk to see some views of Noosa and the gorgeous Noosa headlands before arriving at our accommodation in the afternoon.
Noosa (FREE Day)
Today you have a completely free day to spend doing whatever you like. Noosa is home to Australia’s Everglades (one of only two on the planet). Consider taking an adventure canoe or a relaxing afternoon cruise to explore this special place.
Other options include: relaxing by the pool, going for a walk around the incredible headland, visiting the beach or having a long, lazy lunch in the sun. The Noosa Surf Club is one of our faves so if you’d like to go out for dinner, you can’t go wrong with this local hotspot!
Noosa to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)
It’s an early start this morning as you head out for your 3-day, 2-night K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) adventure. During this amazing experience you’ll explore the largest sand island in the world on a 4WD expedition, see the magical Lake Boorangoora (McKenzie), discover towering rainforests, spot a wild dingo, cruise along endless sandy beaches and lose yourself in the magic of stargazing. If you fancy learning how to drive a 4WD, you can do that! This is going to be one of the best experiences of your whole trip and is definitely the coolest way to explore this world-heritage listed National Park.
After a bus, ferry and 4WD transfer, you’ll arrive at The Eco Retreat on K’gari (your accommodation for the next 2 nights). You’ll have some tasty lunch and then you can check out the retreat’s ocean views before heading out for your first adventure to see some of the Island highlights. This evening, you’ll arrive back at The Eco Retreat to enjoy dinner, practice throwing a boomerang, share stories and learn to play the didgeridoo around the campfire. Tonight, you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves as you settle into your beautiful glamping accommodation.
Do More: Take part in a beach clean up on the island of K’gari and contribute to keeping this piece of paradise as nature intended.
K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)
This morning, wake up to the gorgeous golden sunrise over the ocean, enjoy breakfast and get ready for a fun-filled morning exploring K’gari and her hidden treasures. Enjoy lunch on the beach and then spend the afternoon discovering more lakes (there are over 100!) and epic views before arriving back at The Eco Retreat in time for another dinner under the stars and some fun evening activities.
K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) to Bundaberg
After breakfast today you’ll hit the inland tracks to discover towering trees and take one last refreshing dip, enjoy lunch in the forest and then begin your journey back to the mainland, arriving into Rainbow Beach around mid-afternoon ready for your next journey north up to Bundaberg.
Bundaberg is well-known for sugarcane, rum, ginger beer and more recently has been called the ‘Bundaberg Bowl’ for its reputation of growing and producing fresh food that’s served across the country. Your accommodation in Bundaberg is a relaxed eco-resort, this time you’ll be located by a nature reserve in the coastal suburb of Bargara and have access to a spa, sauna, tennis courts and more (we know, we treat you good!).
Bundaberg / Bargara
This morning we’ll have breakfast at the resort and then head to a nearby Coral Farm for a special land-based reef experience. Have a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible beauty and science of coral cultivation and the future of reef restoration. There are over 70,000 individual corals and 200 marine species for you to view!
We’ll then head to Bundaberg township for lunch, after which we’ll visit the Bundaberg Rum Distillery and if you’re keen, a tasting of their iconic rum (extra cost). In the afternoon, relax, take a walk on the beach or why not play a game of tennis at the resort?
If you’d prefer a full day out on the water and the chance to visit the Southern part of the Great Barrier Reef, your guide can book you onto the incredible Lady Musgrave Experience for a full day of snorkelling, a boat cruise, guided island walk and delicious food.
Tonight, we’ll have a traditional Aussie BBQ dinner at the resort.
Bundaberg to Airlie Beach
Today is a big travelling day to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the amazing Whitsunday Islands, so load up on snacks and we’ll get the tunes going to get us through the day. We’ll make some stops to stretch our legs and arrive in Airlie in the evening.
Airlie Beach to Whitsunday Islands
Today you’ll head out on the water to see the spectacular Whitsundays Islands up close. Sit back and enjoy the sea air on-board the largest sailing catamaran in The Whitsundays. Sail through the Islands, visit Whitehaven Beach, snorkel the fringing reef and enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch with all-inclusive drinks.
Airlie Beach (FREE Day)
Today is yours to explore. Enjoy a sleep in, relax by the pool, take a stroll around Airlie’s boutique shops or along the 4km waterfront Bicentennial Boardwalk. If you’d like to see the Whitsundays Islands from above, book in for a skydive or scenic flight (optional extra) over the Islands and outer Great Barrier Reef (including Heart Reef).
Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island
Enjoy your final morning in Airlie Beach. Your 'Adventure Tour' buddies will join you again around lunch time and we’ll jump back on the bus and head north to Townsville. We’ll then catch the ferry over to our next destination of Magnetic Island in the late afternoon. Nearly 50% of ‘Maggie Island’ is national parkland, and it's surrounded by amazing beaches and abundant wildlife. Your guide will fill you in on the activities you can do around the island over the next couple of days.
See More: This island paradise is your best chance on the East Coast to see koalas in the wild. Keep your eyes out for these sleepy marsupials, rock wallabies, and colourful birds as you explore the forested island.
Magnetic Island (FREE Day)
Today you will wake up in paradise and have a full free day to explore. This beautiful island is home to the historic Forts Complex, which you see in a scenic walk with your Guide. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with some incredible views over the island and ocean beyond. Spend the rest of your day relaxing on the secluded beaches, hiking through native bush or searching for wildlife! Top tip: stay alert and keep your eyes on the trees, Maggie Island is one of the best places in Australia to see koalas in the wild!
Magnetic Island to Cairns via Josephine Falls
This morning we’ll catch the ferry back to the mainland and then we’ll get on the road again and head to our final destination of our tour, Cairns - the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
On the way, we’ll stop in Tully (home of the giant Gumboot), for a lunch break, then head to the beautiful Josephine Falls for a walk through lush rainforest and, if conditions allow, a refreshing swim.
Tonight, we’re staying at an amazing resort that has its own person-made beach! We’ll have a group dinner at the resort before heading out to experience the legendary Cairns nightlife.
Cairns (FREE Day)
Today is a completely free day so if you were dancing into the early hours, enjoy a lazy sleep-in and perhaps a dip in the pool in the afternoon. If you’re ready for another day of adventure, why not book a tour of Cape Tribulation or go to see the iconic Great Barrier Reef?
Cairns (Departure)
Today is the final day of your Stray adventure. Give a hug or a wave to your new mates and head off for the next leg of your adventure, taking with you the most incredible memories, everything you’ve learned about Australia’s special culture and wildlife, and of course some classic Aussie lingo - G’DAY MATES!
Accommodation
14 nights’ accommodation in twin or double rooms in a range of hostels, backpacker resorts, eco-lodges, apart from 2 nights K’gari/formerly Fraser Island (glamping tents with ensuites).
Scroll through the gallery to see some of the places you'll stay:
Room Accomodation Rates
Standard |
$6245 |
Solo Upgrade | $1750 |

Need to Know
Backpacking adventure tour from Brisbane to Cairns
- Trip starts: Arrival day is on a Sunday and we depart from Brisbane on Monday morning.
- Pick Up: Make your own way to your accommodation at Roamer Brisbane, 466 George St, Brisbane. Check in is from 2pm. Meet your guide and group at 5pm in the hostel reception.
- Trip finishes: Gilligans Backpacker Resort & Hotel, 89 Grafton St, Cairns on a Sunday. Check out is 10am.
- Transport: Travel by private Stray bus, ferry and 4WD (K'gari/formerly Fraser Island), sailing yacht (Whitsundays).
- Meals: 20 meals are included. We make regular supermarket stops so you can self-cater for other meals, or there are usually quite a few cafe/restaurant options in each location. Any dietary requirements or allergies must be advised upon booking so that they can be catered to where possible.
- Guides: Your Guide is your Bus Driver, Activity Organiser, Tour Guide, and friend. They’re always on hand to give you travel trips, advice and any help you need.
- Stray Travellers: Find your tribe and make meaningful connections with travellers from all over the world. The majority of our passengers are aged between 20-60 but there is no age limit! You just need to be reasonably fit and be young at heart! 70% of our travellers are travelling solo.
- Accommodation: Accommodation is in twin or double rooms in a range of hostels, backpacker resorts, eco-lodges, apart from 2 nights K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) in glamping tents with ensuites.
- Single travellers who purchase the twinshare option will be put in a twin room with another single traveller of the same gender. For single travellers wanting a private room, they will need to purchase a solo upgrade.
- All rooms are twin or double rooms and include a private ensuite bathroom with the exception of your accommodation at Bounce Magnetic Island where bathrooms are separate and shared between up to 4 people.
- Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 20kg plus a day pack
- A basic to medium level of fitness is required for walks and activities
- The Select and Adventure Tour customers travel together on the same bus and have the same travel days except for the Airlie Beach / Whitsunday section (Days 9 and 10). There is an option for Select Tour travellers to take part in the 2 day / 2 night sailing adventure but they would need to notify Stray at the time of booking. Please note that the 2 day / 2 night sailing boat includes shared dorm style accommodation only.
- Payment Options: If you'd like to secure your place on the trip, but are a little bit short on cash, you can reserve a seat with a $200 deposit. Click 'Book Your Travel' and choose the deposit option in checkout. You then have 6 months to pay it off - too easy! Better yet - there's no admin fee. You can make payments when it suits you using our Extra Payments page. You just need to have paid for your trip in full 31 days before you start your travels.