Highlights
- Take in the panoramic views of Brisbane from scenic Mount Coot-Tha
- Enjoy a full-day adventure to the Australian Zoo to visit the native wildlife
- Spot humpback whales on a walk through Burleigh Heads National Park Headlands
- Join a guided tour of animals and waterfalls at Mount Tambourine National Park
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Brisbane | Brisbane |
| Day 2 | Day Trip to Australia Zoo | Brisbane |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Gold Coast, Explore | Gold Coast |
| Day 4 | Mount Tambourine National Park, Gallery Walk & Wine Tasting | Gold Coast |
| Day 5 | Return to Brisbane, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Brisbane
Upon arrival to Brisbane, a host will greet you and go over your Australian itinerary. Transfer to your hotel to freshen up before enjoying a scenic drive through the River City, making your way to the lookout point of Mount Coot-Tha. Take in the vast panorama of the city out to Moreton Bay. Toast to your arrival in Australia with a welcome glass of sparkling wine. Then, the evening will be at your leisure.
Day 2: Day Trip to Australia Zoo
This morning, expect a driver pick-up from the hotel to take you on an adventure. Today's destination is the Australia Zoo. This 1,000-acre wildlife playground is located 45 minutes north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland. Owned and operated by the Irwin family—of the late great Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin—the zoo has a strong focus on wildlife conservation and native species. Some of the areas to bookmark within the zoo include the following:
- The Crocoseum
- Roo Heaven
- Koala Walkthrough
- Tiger Temple
There are plenty of shows and tours to keep you busy during this active field trip. After the zoo, head back to Brisbane and enjoy a night in the city on your own.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Transfer to Gold Coast, Explore
This morning, transfer to Gold Coast and leave your bags at the accommodation to enjoy a full day of leisure. Take a surfing lesson at one of Australia's iconic surf destinations, or spend a day at a favorite local spot, Burleigh Heads, and enjoy watching the surfers instead. Then, stroll around the famous Burleigh Heads National Park Headlands from the rocky shore into the rainforest. Keep an eye out for humpback whales from the Tumgun lookout in the winter and spring months, along with sea eagles flying overhead. Here, ancient volcanic columns converge with the sea, surrounded by forests, grasslands, and mangroves.
Consider a visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for native animals—small, big, endangered, and flourishing—which is anchored by its lorikeet feed. Or, for a thrill, head to SkyPoint Climb, which is stationed on the top of the Q1—the highest point in the Gold Coast—and embark on an external building climbing excursion. For even more of an adrenaline rush, Gold Coast is home to several theme parks, some of which include the following:
- Dreamworld
- WhiteWater World
- Wet’n’Wild
- Warner Bros. Movie World
- Sea World
After an active day, wind down on your own time and explore the Gold Coast nightlife.
Day 4: Mount Tambourine National Park, Gallery Walk & Wine Tasting
Start the morning with a peaceful drive through Gold Coast's hinterland. Then, embark on a guided sightseeing tour on the rainforest roads through Mount Tambourine National Park, with the chance to spot native wildlife and visit a tropical waterfall. Next, indulge in a local wine tasting before visiting the famous Gallery Walk, where local artists showcase their works. Following the day's activities, return to Gold Coast for the afternoon and evening at your leisure.
Day 5: Depart Brisbane
Today, it is time to say goodbye to Brisbane. A driver will transport you to the airport to catch your flight home. Until next time!
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