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About this trip
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.
Activity Level - Easy to Moderate
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!
Weather
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.
Money & Tipping
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.
Packing List
A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure, but be thinking summer weather wear!
What’s included
- Accommodation4-star hotels in Cairns and Sydney. All rooms are double occupancy with 2 twin or queen beds. If you'd like a single room, there is an option to purchase the single supplement at check out.
- Ground TransportAirport transfers are included as well as the flight within Australia from Cairns to Syndey.
- Tips for Local GuidesGenerous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides and drivers. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader are optional and at your discretion.
- FoodAll meals included as indicated in the itinerary. We can accommodate dietary restrictions.
- ExcursionsAll excursions mentioned in itinerary
- Chicas Abroad SwagWe provide amazing swag items to our guests to enjoy during and after your adventure!
What’s not included
- International FlightsGuests must book their own international flights to arrive in Cairns by January 6th by 2:00pm and depart Sydney on January 13th after 4:00pm (or continue on for more adventures on your own)
- Travel InsuranceTravel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.
- Alcoholic DrinksAlcoholic drinks are at your own expense
- Tour Leader TipsIf you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350.
- Personal PurchaseSouvenirs and other personal purchases are not included.
Available Packages
Save $200 if you book by July 31, 2025!
The price includes all lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Cairns and Sydney, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $670.
We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit* at booking, then 3 equal monthly payments (Aug 2025-Oct 2025).
*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy.
Save $200 if you book by July 31, 2025!
The price includes all lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Cairns and Sydney, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $670.
A $1000 deposit* due at booking. The remainder is due by October 6, 2025. We are happy to set up interest-free monthly payment plans to fit your budget, as long as it's paid in full by October 6, 2025.
*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy.
The price includes all lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Cairns and Sydney, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $670.
A $1000 deposit* due at booking. The remainder is due by October 6, 2025. We are happy to set up interest-free monthly payment plans to fit your budget, as long as it's paid in full by October 6, 2025.
*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy.
Available Add-Ons
If you'd prefer to have your own room, we have a limited number of single rooms available.
Itinerary
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