From reef to city, this Aussie adventure brings the best of both worlds! We’ll kick things off in tropical Cairns with a visit to the Great Barrier Reef for a full day of snorkeling, optional scuba diving, and reef wonders. Then, we’ll head into the lush Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation for waterfalls, wildlife, and a taste of Aboriginal culture.

Next, it’s on to iconic Sydney! We’ll explore the Opera House, stroll The Rocks, and unwind on the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Add in a day trip to the Blue Mountains, beach time, and a farewell dinner cruise in Darling Harbour, and you’ve got one unforgettable Aussie escape.

This trip is perfect for active women who enjoy staying on the move without needing to be extreme adventurers. Expect a moderate level of physical activity, with daily outings that include walking tours, scenic hikes, snorkeling, and optional water activities like scuba diving. From rainforest trails to coastal walks and city explorations, you'll be up and about most days—but with plenty of downtime built in to relax, recharge, and soak up the scenery. Comfortable shoes and a spirit of adventure are all you need!

In January, you’ll be soaking up summer vibes in both Cairns and Sydney—just in different ways! Cairns is hot, humid, and tropical this time of year. Expect daytime temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s °F (around 29–34°C), with plenty of sunshine and a chance of afternoon rain showers (it is the wet season, after all!). Pack light, breathable clothing, a rain jacket or umbrella, and don’t forget your swimsuit—it’s reef and rainforest weather at its finest.

Sydney, on the other hand, has a more temperate coastal summer. Days are warm and sunny with temps usually ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s °F (24–29°C), with lower humidity than Cairns. It’s perfect weather for sightseeing, beach time, and harbor cruising, so bring your sunnies, a sunhat, and comfy outfits for both city strolls and coastal walks.

All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items. You can either order Australian dollars from your bank at home or use an ATM on arrival in Cairns to get some cash. Exchanging USD to AUD at the airport or at a bank in Australia is not always easy and doesn't give the best exchange rates.

All gratuities are included in your adventure, with the exception of tips for your Chicas Abroad Tour Leader. While tipping your Tour Leader is entirely optional, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care, energy, and behind-the-scenes magic they bring to your trip.

If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350. In cases where more than one Tour Leader is present, you’re welcome to give your tip to one of them—they’ll ensure it’s shared among the team.

A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure, but be thinking summer weather wear!

Welcome to Cairns! After touching down in tropical paradise, we’ll whisk you away to our centrally located hotel to get settled and refreshed. In the afternoon, we’ll take a laid-back orientation walk along the beautiful Cairns Esplanade Lagoon—think ocean breezes, palm trees, and your first peek at the city’s relaxed coastal vibe. We’ll wrap up the day with a delicious group dinner at a local seafood spot, where we’ll toast to new adventures and new friends!


Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Cairns
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner

Today’s the day we dive into one of the world’s greatest natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef! We’ll hop aboard a boat charter and set sail for a full day of ocean magic. Snorkel over vibrant coral gardens, spot tropical fish, and for the adventurous, there’s even an option to try scuba diving. Expert guides will be on hand to share fascinating marine insights, and a fresh lunch will keep us fueled between dips. Sun, sea, and unforgettable underwater sights—this is what reef dreams are made of!

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Get ready to step into a real-life jungle wonderland! Today we venture into the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the wild beauty of Cape Tribulation on a full-day guided adventure. We’ll wander through lush greenery, keep an eye out for unique wildlife, and cool off at the stunning Mossman Gorge. Along the way, we’ll learn about the rich Aboriginal history and deep cultural roots of this incredible region. It’s a day full of nature, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes that feel straight out of a storybook.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will have the morning to enjoy at your leisure. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the airport and fly south to the iconic city of Sydney. Once we’re checked into our group-friendly hotel, we’ll keep things easy with a relaxed dinner nearby to unwind and get ready for our next urban adventure.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we dive into the heart of Sydney! We’ll kick things off with a guided walking tour through some of the city’s most iconic spots—Circular Quay, the world-famous Sydney Opera House, and the historic cobblestone lanes of The Rocks. In the afternoon, choose your own adventure: meet Australia’s cutest critters at Taronga Zoo or hop on a scenic ferry ride to laid-back Manly Beach for some sun and surf. We’ll end the day with a fabulous group dinner in Darling Harbour, surrounded by twinkling lights and waterfront views.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Get ready for a day of breathtaking views in the Blue Mountains! We’ll hop on a private coach and head out for a full day of adventure. Explore scenic trails that lead to the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and the stunning Wentworth Falls. Additionally, we will visit many waterfalls during our time in the Blue Mountains. After an unforgettable day surrounded by nature’s beauty, we’ll return to Sydney in the evening, with plenty of memories to reflect on.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Our final full day kicks off with a stunning group walk along the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal trail. We’ll stop for plenty of photo ops and beach time along the way, soaking up the sun and the incredible ocean views. In the afternoon, you’ve got some free time to shop till you drop at Pitt Street Mall or the iconic Queen Victoria Building. We’ll wrap up the day with a magical Sydney Harbour farewell dinner cruise, where you can enjoy delicious food, sparkling city lights, and the unforgettable skyline as we toast to an amazing trip!

Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It’s time to say goodbye, but not before one last group breakfast to reflect on the unforgettable memories we’ve made! If you’ve got a little extra time, you can take a leisurely stroll through the heritage-listed Royal Botanical Gardens, a beautiful waterfront garden featuring a 30 hectare collection of diverse plants. Then, we’ll transfer to the airport for your departure, sending you off with full hearts, new friends, and the best souvenirs—memories of an incredible Aussie adventure!

Or you can catch a flight to Aukland, New Zealand and explore the North and South Islands with Chicas Abroad for the next week! 

Note: If you would like to catch an earlier flight and skip the botanical gardens, that is an option. 

Meals Included: Breakfast