Australia:
Reef Dreams
October 24 - November 1, 2027
Booking Deadline: July 26, 2027
Reserve Your Spot with Flexible Payment Plans
Australia is a country where glittering harbors meet ancient rainforests, where every meal is coastal and every evening ends with a view. This nine-day journey takes you across two of Australia’s most iconic destinations, Sydney and Cairns, giving you city energy, salt-water mornings, world-class food, and the pure wonder of the tropical north all in one trip. Designed with intention for Black queer travelers, this experience balances guided excursions with meaningful free time, so you can see Australia the way it was meant to be seen: wide open, in your own rhythm. You will stroll historic Sydney neighborhoods, meet kangaroos and koalas up close, cook a seafood feast at the Sydney Fish Market, 4WD through tropical rainforest to hidden waterfalls, and end your trip steps from the Great Barrier Reef.
Arrive curious. Leave with sand on your feet and sunlight in your bones.
This experience is designed for a small group of up to 12 travelers, allowing for meaningful connection, flexibility, and shared moments throughout the trip.
✨ Make It One or Two Countries ✨
Australia is part of a two-trip autumn series with New Zealand. Join us for Australia only or pair it with New Zealand. Each destination is its own complete Lesbifriends Travel experience and is booked separately, so build the adventure that works for your schedule, interests, and budget.
When booking, please select the "Combined Trip Add-On" to let us know you are combining both trips. This is only for interest tracking so we can help you plan accordingly. Airfare and any extra night’s stay is at cost and not included in trip price.
Photos are examples; actual room may vary slightly based on availability and accommodation alignment.
The Accommodations
Your home throughout this journey features thoughtfully selected modern stays that reflect the character of each city. In Sydney, you will stay at a vibrant, stylish hotel in the heart of Darling Harbour, just steps from the city’s buzzing waterfront and within easy reach of the Opera House, The Rocks, and Sydney’s best food and nightlife. In Cairns, you will stay at a modern property steps from the Esplanade with sweeping sea views, close to the Great Barrier Reef, local beaches, and the Cairns Night Markets.
Both stays include daily breakfast.
NOTE: ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Day One (Sunday, October 24th)
G’DAY, SYDNEY
Your journey begins in Sydney, Australia’s cosmopolitan heart. Upon arrival at Sydney Airport, you’ll head to your hotel to check in and settle in. The rest of the day is yours to shake off the long-haul flight, take a slow walk along the waterfront, or get your bearings in your new neighborhood.
In the evening, we come together for a welcome dinner at the hotel, a warm introduction to Australian flavors and the perfect kickoff to the week ahead.
Day Two (Monday, October 25th)
ICONS, VIEWS + VIBES
Today, we see Sydney at a glance. Our private half-day guided drive takes us through the city’s most historic and scenic neighborhoods. Explore the colonial roots of The Rocks and the CBD, wind along the southern shores of Sydney Harbour, pause for tea with a view at Watsons Bay and The Gap, and walk the iconic promenade at Bondi Beach.
Our drive continues through local suburbs, parks, and the evolving urban landscape of Darling Harbour and Barangaroo, wrapping up as we pass under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours.
Breakfast included.
Day Three Tuesday, October 26th)
SYDNEY, YOUR WAY
A completely free day to let Sydney unfold for you. Grab breakfast in trendy Surrey Hills, sample craft beers and browse boutiques in Newtown, catch a surf lesson at Bondi Beach, or hop a ferry to Manly for a day of sun. Prefer something slower? Spend time at the Royal Botanic Garden, wander the historic terrace houses of Paddington, or head to Centennial Park for Sydney’s version of Central Park energy.
End the day in Darlinghurst for dinner and drinks, then take a sunset walk out to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for one final view of the Opera House glowing against the Harbour.
Breakfast included.
Day Four (Wednesday, October 27th)
KANGAROOS + KITCHEN TIME
Today is one for the memory book. Start the morning with a guided walk through Taronga Zoo’s Nura Diya section, where an expert ranger will introduce you to native Australian wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas.
In the evening, we head to the Sydney Fish Market for a private hands-on cooking class led by expert instructors. Watch a live cooking demonstration, then don your apron and prepare the dishes yourself. We finish the night with wine, enjoying the meal we just created together.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day Five (Thursday, October 28th)
NORTH TO THE TROPICS
This morning, a private transfer will take you to Sydney Airport for your direct 3-hour flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, another private transfer will whisk you to your Cairns accommodations to settle in. The rest of the day is yours to explore the Cairns Esplanade, take a dip in the famous Esplanade Lagoon, or simply decompress and soak in the tropical shift.
Breakfast included.
Day Seven (Saturday, October 30th)
SAND, SEA + SUNSHINE
Today, we head to Palm Cove, a stunning tropical beach suburb just outside Cairns known for its palm-lined shores and quiet, serene energy. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, keeping an eye out for sea turtles, or walking along the swimming enclosures that offer safe year-round ocean access.
In the afternoon, consider a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, a visit to the Bulmba-ja Art Gallery to experience First Nations art, or an evening at the Cairns Night Markets for artisanal goods, food, and live entertainment.
Breakfast included.
Day Nine (Monday, November 1st)
HOOROO, AUSTRALIA
Your Australia journey wraps today. Enjoy a slow morning and one final tropical breakfast before you head to Cairns Airport for your flight home or on to your next destination. You leave Australia with sand still on your feet, salt still in your hair, and the kind of warmth that stays with you well past landing.
Breakfast included.
Day Six (Friday, October 29th)
INTO THE WILD
A full morning of adventure. Our half-day 4WD tour takes us deep into the Wet Tropics Rainforest National Parks with a naturalist guide leading the way. Drive through Kuranda, take in picturesque views at Wrights Lookout in Barron Gorge National Park, and venture off-road through lush rainforest to the Clohesy River Boardwalk to see ancient King Ferns and a towering strangler fig tree.
Cool off with a swim in the clear waters of Davies Creek, enjoy a scoop of local ice cream, and take in panoramic views at the Henry Ross Lookout before returning to Cairns. The afternoon is yours to rest, swim, or explore.
Breakfast included.
Day Eight (Sunday, October 31st)
REEF DAY (OPTIONAL)
A completely free day in Cairns. Spend it however calls you. For those who want to experience the ultimate Australian bucket-list moment, consider adding on a snorkel day trip to Green Island on a small group boat tour (not included) to see parts of the Great Barrier Reef up close.
Otherwise, read on a beach, catch up on rest, book a spa treatment, or go wander back through the Cairns Esplanade or Palm Cove. The day is yours.
Breakfast included.
What’s Included✨
9 Days, 8 Nights in boutique hotels (4 nights Sydney, 4 nights Cairns)
Daily Breakfast and 2 Dinners
Internal Flight from Sydney to Cairns with Private Transfers on Both Ends
Private Half-Day Highlights of Sydney Tour
Taronga Zoo Backyard Adventure Walk
Private Sydney Fish Market Cooking Class with Wine Pairing
Barron Falls Half-Day 4WD Rainforest Adventure
Sightseeing
English-Speaking Local Guides
Travel Guide
On-ground team to ensure you have an amazing time!
What’s Not Included
International Flight
Your Flight from your Home country to Australia and your flight back Home is not included - but we can help you figure both out.
Flight Between Australia + New Zealand (if combining trips) is not included. We will help arrange this on your behalf at cost.
Airport Transfers
Your transportation to/from the airport is not included. Transportation add-ons are available for purchase.
Estimated Uber/Rideshare Costs (USD, per vehicle, each way): • Sydney Airport to/from Hotel: $25 to $45 (approximately 15 to 30 minutes)
Cairns Airport to/from Hotel: $15 to $25 (approximately 8 to 15 minutes)
These are estimates, and actual fares may vary depending on demand and time of day. Uber is available in both cities, although availability in Cairns may be more limited at certain hours.
Optional Private Airport Transfers (USD, per person, each way):
1 traveler: $250 • 2 travelers: $150 per person • 3 travelers: $100 per person
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Lesbifriends Travel trips and a great way to protect your investment. When you book, WeTravel offers a free, no-obligation quote for basic coverage. You can easily select this option when registering. You’re also welcome to purchase your own policy from any provider. Some credit cards include built-in travel insurance if you pay for the entire trip with that card but be sure to check their terms to confirm your full trip cost is covered.
Any Applicable Vaccines
Meals not Mentioned
You are responsible for breakfast, lunch and most dinners during the trip.
Optional Add-Ons
Great Barrier Reef snorkel day trips, Daintree Rainforest excursions, Harbour Bridge climbs, spa treatments, and any additional experiences.
Personal extras
Additional tours and excursions not included in the itinerary.
Tips and gratuities
You are responsible for all tips and gratuities, including those for accommodation staff, meal service (even for included meals), drivers, tour guides, and other service providers. We recommend budgeting $100–$200 for gratuities to ensure you can tip appropriately throughout your trip.
⭐ Lock in Founding Member rate before Dec 31.
Receive $100 Annual Trip Credit (stackable if unused)
Grab your spot in the Passport Club. → Join Now
Pricing
Booking Deadline: July 26, 2027
Payment Plans Available - All Listed Prices Are Per Person
Please review the booking terms and conditions and frequently asked questions section before booking a package.
A Quick Note on Booking Together
If you are traveling with a friend or partner and plan to share a room, we recommend that each of you book individually so payments and registration can be managed separately. Just include your roommate's name during registration and we will be sure to place you in the same room. If you book under one registration, all payments will be tied to the original booker and cannot be split later.
Combined Trip Add-On
$0 Add-On
Select this option at checkout to let us know you are interested in combining trips.
Options:
• Go to Australia + New Zealand
Double Occupancy
$3,900
Deposit: $200
1 OR 2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)
Single Occupancy
$5,700
Deposit: $200
1 BED AND 1 PERSON IN THE ROOM.
Disclaimer
THIS TRIP ISN'T FOR EVERYONE
Australia is a fast-paced country with its own pace, customs, and standards that may differ from what you are used to in the USA.
IT IS FOR YOU IF:
You are open-minded
You enjoy walking, exploring, and immersive cultural experiences
You love beaches, nature, and tropical landscapes
You are excited to try new foods and flavors
You are open to meeting others and embracing the different personalities you will encounter
THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU IF:
You tend to bring first world expectations with you everywhere
You tend to be negative or create a challenging atmosphere for those around you
You are not into trying new things or stepping outside of your comfort zone
You do not enjoy seafood or coastal cuisine; that is a core part of this experience
You have very specific and particular travel preferences and tend to criticize everything around you
You have significant difficulty with heat and humidity (especially in Cairns)
You are looking for luxury; their standards are not the same as it is in the USA, however, if you keep an open mind, you will have a great time!
Important Information
Trip Terms & Conditions
We believe in transparency and informed travel. Click HERE to review the complete Lesbifriends Travel’s trip terms and conditions that you will agree to once you book.
Money/Currency
The official currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Most hotels, restaurants, and major retailers accept credit and debit cards, with contactless payment widely available. Smaller shops, markets, and some rural vendors may prefer cash. Card transactions may include international processing fees. We recommend carrying small amounts of cash for tips and small purchases, and to check with your bank before traveling to avoid unexpected charges.
Travel Insurance
Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Lesbifriends Travel requires you to have travel insurance for any trip you take with us. Your premium is related to your trip cost, so you don’t have to worry about being over-insured. We want to make your travel experience seamless, so sign up and we will get a travel insurance policy for you or we can provide you with a no obligation quote. If you opt not to go with our preferred travel insurance provider, you are required to get your own and proof of insurance may be requested before the trip.
Payments and Payment Plans
All payments to Lesbifriends Travel are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is because Lesbifriends Travel has contractual agreements with hotels, airlines, and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds. This way we can keep our package prices low and allow you to make monthly payments on your vacation.
When you sign up for a trip, you are automatically signed up for monthly payments, and your confirmation email will clearly note your due dates and amount. We suggest you put this payment plan on your personal calendar.
A $75 late fee will be applied to all payments made after the 3-day grace period. Your trip is subject to cancellation after two missed payments.
Flights
Airport transfers are not included in this trip. There are add-on options available for transportation.
Please try to schedule your flight to arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) on Sunday, October 24th between 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM local time.
Please note: Due to crossing the International Date Line, flights from the U.S. typically arrive in Australia one or two days later than departure. Plan accordingly to arrive on October 24, 2027.
Please try to schedule your departure flight from Cairns Airport (CNS) on Monday, November 1st, after 3:00 PM local time.
You are welcome to arrange your own transfer to the accommodations or request a private transfer at an additional cost. The same applies for departure day.
Please forward your flight itinerary to hello@lesbifriendstravel.com as soon as you purchase your tickets.
Entry Requirements
Passport: Six months of remaining validity required. One blank page required for entry stamp.
Visa and ETA Requirements: U.S. citizens must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) before arrival. This can be done online or via the official Australian ETA app. The ETA is valid for stays of up to 90 days.
Health and Safety: There are currently no COVID-19-related entry restrictions. Australia has strict biosecurity rules, so be prepared to declare any food, plant, or animal items upon arrival.
Prior to Your Departure
Check if you need to update your passport. Your expiration date needs to be six months from the date of the trip. Being well informed adds to your overall experience. Apply for your Australian ETA well in advance of your departure.
Also be sure to sign up for State Department/Embassy alerts and the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Entry requirements are subject to change. Travelers are responsible for reviewing and meeting all current passport, visa, ETA, and other entry requirements before departure.
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If you are traveling alone and do not want to spend the extra money for a single occupancy room, we are happy to match you with a like-minded traveler to be your roommate on this trip. We understand that the extra money spent in getting your own room takes away from the money available for you to splurge while on vacation.
For that reason, we extend each traveler the option of having us pair you with a suitable roommate for no additional cost. Roommates are paired based on room selection and a potential roommate questionnaire if there are several solo travelers. Before the trip, you will be introduced to your roommate, with plenty of time for you to get to know each other before we reach our destination.