Cairns - Brisbane tour
Day 1: Cairns - Port Douglas
After picking up your motorhome, your journey begins with the scenic coastal drive from Cairns to Port Douglas. This small, stylish seaside town is the perfect base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the tropical rainforest of Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, and the inland regions of Far North Queensland.
Day 2: Port Douglas
You will have two full days to explore the area. We highly recommend booking an excursion to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re a beginner, a certified diver, or prefer to explore the coral reefs as a snorkeler — there’s an option for everyone!
Day 3: Port Douglas
Your second day in this area gives you the opportunity to discover Daintree National Park, including Cape Tribulation. Whether you book a day excursion or explore on your own with your motorhome, don’t miss out on this incredible destination!
Day 4: Port Douglas - Mission Beach
After spending two days in Port Douglas, it’s time to hit the road again and head for Mission Beach. We recommend taking the inland road via Kuranda, a small rainforest town, before continuing into the Atherton Tablelands. Along the way, you can stop at highlights such as the Cathedral Fig Tree, Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham — ideal for a short boat ride or a picnic. Further south, Millaa Millaa Falls is a great spot for a photo stop before you descend towards the coast again.
Day 5: Mission Beach - Townsville
On the coastal drive from Mission Beach to Townsville, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the offshore islands. A fun option along the way is a stop at the Tully River, where you can join a whitewater rafting tour — a thrilling way to experience the narrow Tully Gorge and its dramatic waterfall. Tours can be booked in advance in Mission Beach.
Day 6: Magnectic Island
The island, most of which is a National Park, is known as Koala capital of the world. You can easily explore the island by mini-moke (small open car), e-bike, mountain bike or scooter.
Day 7: Townsville - Airlie Beach
You will drive past pineapple, mango and sugar cane fields towards Airlie Beach. This cozy little town is the base for exploring the idyllic Whitsunday Islands.
Day 8: Whitsunday Islands
Today is all about exploring the Whitsundays. A day tour to Whitehaven Beach with a walk to Hill Inlet Lookout is highly recommended. The shifting sands and clear waters make it one of Australia’s most striking coastal spots.
Day 9: Whitsunday Islands
Spend the day snorkelling around islands like Hook or Border Island, where you’ll find colourful coral and marine life. Prefer a slower pace? A sailing tour or a relaxed day in Airlie Beach are great alternatives.
Day 10: Airlie Beach - Yeppoon
From Airlie Beach, drive south along the Bruce Highway towards Rockhampton. On the way, you’ll pass through Mackay, where you may choose to make a side trip to Eungella National Park — about 120 km extra — known for its platypus sightings and rainforest walks. After reaching Rockhampton, you can take the turnoff to the coastal town of Yeppoon.
Day 11: Yeppoon - Hervey Bay
The route you take today may not be the most scenic, so we recommend leaving early to make the most of your time in Hervey Bay and on Fraser Island. From Hervey Bay, you can take the ferry to Fraser Island.
Day 12: Fraser Island
You have the full day to explore Fraser Island.
Day 13: Hervey Bay - Noosa Heads
A short drive today to Australia's Sunshine Coast. You will stay in Noosa, a pleasant seaside town with the most beautiful beaches, the most sheltered location and a pleasant atmosphere - especially in the evening when there are street markets and people stroll along the promenade and through the shopping street. On the drive you can consider a detour inland to the scenic Glass House Mountains, known for their panoramic views and short walking trails.
Day 14: Noosa Heads
Spend the day exploring Noosa’s surroundings. You can visit the beach, walk or bike through Noosa National Park, where koalas are sometimes spotted in the eucalyptus trees.
Day 15: Noosa Heads - Lamington National Park
From Noosa Heads, you’ll drive south along the highway, bypassing Brisbane. After leaving the coast, you’ll follow a winding mountain road into Lamington National Park, where you’ll stay in the heart of the rainforest.
Day 16: Lamington National Park
The national park is ideal for hiking through subtropical rainforest. The many hiking trails take you past enchanting waterfalls and scenic viewpoints scattered throughout the park.
Day 17 Lamington National Park - Brisbane
A short drive through the lush hinterland takes you back to Brisbane, marking the end of your itinerary.