From iconic cities to stunning wildlife, Australia’s East Coast has something for everyone. Join us on this 10-day adventure, starting in Sydney and ending in Brisbane, as we explore beaches, mountains, rainforests, and the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a thrill seeker, or a laid-back explorer, this guide will help you plan the perfect Australian getaway!
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Trip
- Day 1-2: Arriving in Sydney
- Day 3: Blue Mountains Tour
- Day 4-5: Adelaide & Kangaroo Island
- Day 6-7: Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef
- Day 8-10: Brisbane Adventures
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Overview of the Trip
In just 10 days, we cover major highlights along the East Coast of Australia. This trip includes iconic city landmarks, scenic natural parks, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. We packed our days full of activities, using flights and buses to cover ground quickly. If you’re looking for a diverse, action-packed Australian experience, this is the itinerary for you!
Day 1-2: Arriving in Sydney
Key Activities:
- Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge
- Bondi Beach
- Harbour Bridge Climb
Details:
Your adventure begins with a 14-hour flight to Sydney. Jet lag is real, but to beat it, start with a half-day city tour. This will help you adjust and see popular sites like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach all in one go.
For thrill-seekers, book a climb up the Harbour Bridge! The views are incredible, and safety is a top priority. You’ll be harnessed in the whole time, making it suitable for anyone up for the challenge. Wear comfortable clothes, as you’ll be climbing several sets of stairs.
Top Tip: Pack snacks and water to keep your energy up. Sydney’s sightseeing is fast-paced!
Day 3: Blue Mountains Tour
Key Activities:
- Sydney Zoo Early Access
- Scenic World Gondolas
- Wentworth Falls
Details:
Day 3 takes you out of the city and into nature. The Blue Mountains are about two hours away from Sydney, offering breathtaking views and hikes. The day starts with a visit to Sydney Zoo, where you can see koalas before the crowds arrive.
From there, take the Scenic World gondola ride over the Blue Mountains to get an aerial view of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. Finish with a short hike to Wentworth Falls for great photo opportunities.
Top Tip: Bring a jacket—the mountains can be chilly, even in summer.
Day 4-5: Adelaide & Kangaroo Island
Key Activities:
- Raptor Domain Birds of Prey Show
- Seal Bay Conservation Park
- Remarkable Rocks & Admirals Arch
Details:
Fly to Adelaide, then head to Kangaroo Island via bus and ferry. Though it’s a long journey, the island’s wildlife makes it worthwhile. The Raptor Domain show lets you hold owls and learn about Australia’s native birds of prey.
Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park to see sea lions up close. Don’t miss the rugged landscapes of Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, where you’ll also encounter seals in their natural habitat.
Top Tip: Wear hiking shoes—Kangaroo Island’s terrain can be rocky and uneven.
Day 6-7: Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef
Key Activities:
- Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Tour
- Rainforest Walks
- Cassowary Spotting
Details:
Fly north to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. For a unique underwater experience, opt for a glass-bottom submarine ride at Green Island. You’ll see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish without getting wet.
The rainforest around Cairns offers a different side of Australia. You might even spot the elusive cassowary, a large bird resembling a dinosaur!
Top Tip: Pack seasickness medication for the boat trip to Green Island. The waves can be rough!
Day 8-10: Brisbane Adventures
Key Activities:
- Story Bridge Climb
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
- Felons Brewing Company
Details:
In Brisbane, try the Story Bridge Climb, one of three climbable bridges in the world. The views of the city and Brisbane River are spectacular. Next, head to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can hold a koala and feed kangaroos.
For a relaxing end to your trip, visit Felons Brewing for local craft beer and views of the illuminated Story Bridge at night.
Top Tip: Book the koala-holding experience in advance—it’s popular and fills up quickly.
FAQs
How many days in Australia is enough?
Two weeks is ideal to fully explore the East Coast, though 10 days is enough to see the major highlights.
Is it worth going to Australia for 10 days?
Yes! With a well-planned itinerary, you can experience iconic cities, wildlife, and natural wonders within 10 days.
Is it worth going to Australia for 2 weeks?
Absolutely! Two weeks gives you more time to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and relax at a slower pace.
What is the best month to visit Australia?
The best months are from September to November (spring) and March to May (fall). The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.
Conclusion
Australia’s East Coast is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. In just 10 days, you can explore vibrant cities, iconic landmarks, lush rainforests, and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef. The key is to be flexible and embrace the unexpected! Whether it’s holding a koala or diving into the reef, Australia offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.
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