Reef, Rainforest, and Brisbane Explorer Package
This Reef, Rainforest, and Brisbane Explorer package was designed by an adventurous couple traveling from Chicago. The newly-weds shared interest for experiencing local cultures and taking unique excursions within a lux setting at their own pace.
After leaving the airport, they hopped into their rental car equipped with GPS to a four-night stay at the Peninsula Boutique Hotel in Port Douglas.
The first full day in Port Douglas was packed with adventure; they had a full-day tour of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest with Billy Tea Safaris. The couple, who were self-proclaimed foodies, experienced morning and afternoon tea, tropical fruit tastings and an Aussie BBQ lunch. The first day included admission to Lync Haven for Australian wildlife encounters and transfers to/from the hotel.
The following day, the couple took a romantic adventure on a Hot Air Baloon excursion in Port Douglas. Soaring over Port Douglas was once a dream of theirs that we were pleased to help plan. Transfers to/from the hotel were included
On the 3rd day, the couple had adrenalin on their mind. They embarked on a white-water rafting adventure on the Barron River! A day that was packed with fun was also accompanied by scenic waters, green forest, and breathtaking amenities. Transfer to/from the hotel was included along with tea and coffee.
On the 4th day, the couple took a private road transfer from Brisbane airport to their hotel in a luxury sedan vehicle. The drive went quickly and before they knew it, they were spending two nights at the Emporium Hotel South Bank in Brisbane. To top off the experience, the couple was able to pick from four complimentary minibar items.
On the final day of their adventure, the newlyweds took a half-day Brisbane by Bicycle tour. The active and curious couple couldn’t have ended their adventure in a better way! With morning tea, water and sunscreen provided, the couple was ready to take on a leisurely bike ride throughout Brisbane. All bicycle gear was provided for optimal convenience.
The newlywed couple returned home with full hearts and a plethora of memories that will last a lifetime!
Qantas Airways
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Australia! Arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore after a comfortable flight into Brisbane on the award-winning Qantas Airways additional cost). Enjoy a short onward flight into Cairns and pick up your rental car for a short, scenic drive along the coast to Port Douglas.
Sunny Port Douglas is the perfect hub for experiencing Australia’s top natural wonders. Discover the rare flora and fauna of the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, plus the vibrant coral gardens and tropical marine life out on the Great Barrier Reef. Your home for the next 4 nights is a beautiful, local apartment just steps away from the beach.
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Day 2
Today, you’ll explore the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where the ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.
Your first stop is the Daintree River for morning tea before enjoying an informative, guided river cruise. From here, travel over the Alexandra Range for a panoramic view of the tropical rainforest merging with the azure colors of the Coral Sea. Meet Australian animals at Lync Haven, where you can hand feed the wallabies, followed by a delicious barbecue lunch.
At pristine Emmagen Creek, jump into the refreshing rainforest stream for a swim, followed by a cup of theatrically prepared, traditional “Billy Tea.” At Cape Tribulation Beach, stroll to the photographers’ platform overlooking the stunning mountains and coast where the rainforest meets the reef. Time permitting, you’ll stop at the Daintree Ice Cream Factory before recrossing the Daintree River by cable ferry.
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Day 3
Today, explore the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, on a day filled with adventure and fun. You’ll explore spectacular coral formations and underwater gardens awash with vibrantly colored marine creatures as you visit three different Agincourt ribbon reef sites at the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef.
After a fun-filled, active day, you’ll return to Port Douglas in time for a relaxing stroll along Four Mile Beach and dinner at one of the many fabulous restaurants in town.
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Day 4
Rise early and begin your morning with a spectacular hot air balloon ride! Float gently over the beautiful, lush scenery of the Atherton Tablelands.
Then it’s time for a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the Barron River. Prepare for plenty of thrills and excitement as you plunge through the rainforests of Barron Gorge National Park, paddle through grade 2-3 level rapids, surf the rafts into the free-standing waves, and go over the huge drop at Rooster Tail. No experience necessary! Return to town in time for a delicious dinner to celebrate your wonderful Australian adventure.
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Day 5
Today, enjoy a scenic drive alongside the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas to the Cairns airport. Here, you’ll drop off your rental car and catch a quick flight to sunny Brisbane. Settle into your centrally located hotel and perhaps enjoy a cocktail in the rooftop pool before heading out to explore the city. The laid-back capital of Queensland offers beautiful riverside parks, boutique shops, fabulous restaurants, and lots of local characters.
Emporium Hotel South Bank
Day 6
Discover why Brisbane embodies the quintessential Aussie lifestyle on a morning bicycle tour. Enjoy a scenic and leisurely ride around the best parts of the Brisbane River (which means no hills and no cars).
Your tour takes in the history and culture of the Kangaroo Point cliffs, stunning city views from the iconic Story Bridge, panoramic views of the Brisbane River from Wilson’s Lookout, and a local’s perspective in the tranquil riverside suburb of Newfarm.
After free time to explore the Brisbane Powerhouse, you’ll stop for an extended morning tea break in one of Brisbane’s most beautiful parks. Then continue along the famous riverwalk, stopping at the riverside eating and drinking precinct of Eagle Street Pier, the Brisbane Botanical Gardens, and the Wheel of Brisbane in the beautiful Southbank Parklands.
Emporium Hotel South Bank
Day 7
It’s time to say goodbye to Australia today. Enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to the Brisbane airport and begin your journey home.
About this vacation
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