Abundance of tropical fish in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef

Best of the Great Barrier Reef Tour

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Customizable Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Countries Visited

Australia

Places Visited

Port Douglas, Great Barrier Reef

Suggested Duration

7 Days

Step into the extraordinary to explore the lavish subaquatic world of the Great Barrier Reef and the captivating, ancient tales of Aboriginal Dreamtime. The great stories explain the beginning of existence, leading the way to the harlequin green trees and the indigo hues of the Coral Sea. White sand beaches brush against forests of towering palm trees, and coral reefs glow in crystalline waters. Your custom tailored tour will take you into the sky and beneath the sea to provide unparalleled views...

Customizable Itinerary

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Trip Highlights

  • Dig your toes into the powdery white sand of the secluded Green Island before exploring the coral systems that sprout along the shallow ocean floor
  • Delight in a unique sunrise over northeast Queensland on a hot air balloon ride across the Great Dividing Range
  • Wander through the tropical rainforest at Mossman Gorge with an Aboriginal guide explaining the enchanting story of Dreamtime
  • Discover the kaleidoscope-like splendor of the Great Barrier Reef while snorkeling or scuba diving along the Outer Reef system
  • Enjoy a splendid view of the rainforest and coastline while riding the Kuranda Scenic Skyrail
  • Hold a cuddly koala under the guidance of an instructor at Koala Gardens
  • Traverse the Trinity Inlet on jet skis in search of saltwater crocodiles lounging in the mangrove lined banks
  • Relish the charm of Port Douglas that exudes from the boutique shops, welcoming restaurants, gorgeous seaside view, and white sand beaches

Detailed Description

The essential charms of northeast Queensland emanate from the ambiance of Port Douglas and the exotic natural splendor where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Your 7-day tour is perfect for adventurers and beachgoers, and those in search of relaxed streets with pristine views. Your tour will focus on the best of the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounding splendor to offer insight into Aboriginal culture and the discoveries found in the dense trees of the radiant rainforest. Your journey will begin with your arrival at Cairns Airport, and your private transfer will meet you at baggage claim to escort you north to the town of Port Douglas, located in view of Four Mile Beach and the tranquil atmosphere of the marina.

Begin with an early morning wake-up call for the exceptional experience of watching the sunrise over the eastern seaboard from inside a hot air balloon. Upon landing, your guide will lead you to the Cairns Marina to step aboard your catamaran bound for Green Island. Relax on the white sand and snorkel amidst the beautiful coral systems that surround the island before you return to Port Douglas for the evening. The following day, your guide will take you to Daintree Rainforest at Mossman Gorge to wander the trails with a private guide to learn the history of the Aboriginal in the region. Listen to the stories of Dreamtime and discover the ancient plants still used for medicinal purposes.

Your day will continue at the marina as your catamaran will take you to the Low Isles for another half-day of relishing the soft sand and vibrant colors of the surrounding coral systems. Venture next to the Port Douglas Marina early the next morning and set out on your catamaran to reach the Outer Great Barrier Reef at Moore Reef. The deeper waters allow for a variety of coral and marine life to thrive, so you will snorkel, scuba, or enjoy an air-conditioned submersible for a more in-depth view of the life beneath the sea’s surface. The next day, you will take to the jungle once more, this time via the Kuranda Skyrail for a scenic gondola ride to the town of Kuranda. Once in town, you can wander through Barron Gorge National Park or visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.

The following day is at your leisure to indulge in the wonders of northeast Queensland at your preferred pace. Set out your blanket on Four Mile Beach for a relaxing afternoon or ride jet skis through Trinity Inlet on a crocodile tour. After enjoying breakfast with the birds at Wildlife Habitat, you can continue with thrills or leisure. You could always extend your time in Australia to visit the cultural capital of Melbourne or the view the unique and spiritual landscape of the Red Center. When you are ready, your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you from Port Douglas to Cairns Airport for your flight home.

Starting Price

$2,900 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.86 stars based on 1686 reviews.

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