Quintessential Queensland: Maleny - Cairns - The Inland Route

Reconnect with your adventurous spirit on a 14-night women's outback slow-travel tour from Maleny to Cairns with Once were wild travel. Enjoy premium hiking in Carnarvon Gorge, ancient Undara lava tubes, the iconic Atherton Tablelands, and Queeslands "Little Grand Canyon," along with comfortable, short driving blocks.

South East to North Queensland

14 nights | Dates:: 23 May - 6 June, 2027

From $7,950 all inclusive

At Once Were Wild Travel , we believe all-inclusive means never having to reach for your wallet. From the moment you arrive in Maleny to our final farewell in Cairns, every single detail, meal, and boutique experience is completely taken care of. The Intimate Crew : Group sizes are capped at just 8 like-minded women , ensuring an exclusive, spacious, and deeply supportive sisterhood experience. Expert Female Guides : Two professional, dedicated female tour leaders who handle all the driving, logistics, and coordination from start to finish. Welcome to the rugged heart and rich history of the Australian outback, a journey that trades the coastline for ancient wonders and country hospitality. Travelling comfortably on mainly sealed roads, we will venture inland to stand inside massive volcanic lava tubes, float through hidden sandstone chasms, and step back into the golden days of the pioneer rush. This is a tour for the curious spirit ... a slow, immersive loop through spectacular geological landscapes, filled with shared campfire stories, rich heritage, and unforgettable outback sunrises. Turn your back on the coast and step directly into the vast, ancient landscapes of the Australian outback, where time slows down and the horizons open wide. Travelling comfortably on sealed roads with most driving blocks kept to 5 hours, this 14-night journey offers an immersive plunge into the deep history of our land. Together as a tight-knit crew, we will walk through massive underground lava tubes, stand beneath the towering, multi-coloured cliffs of Queensland's Little Grand Canyon, a

Highlights

  • Carnarvon Gorge Guided Trail Walks: Expertly led treks by a local guide through the main gorge tracks, including the Moss Garden and indigenous art sites.
  • Venus Gold Battery Experience: Authentic gold panning and entry to the oldest surviving gold processing battery in Queensland.
  • Flinder's Discovery Centre - housing "Hughie" the Muttaburrasaurus - part of the 1350 km Dinosaur Trail.
  • Porcupine Gorge Pyramid 2.4km return hike that descends 120 metres through 500 million years of geological history. The gorge floor is famous for its permanent, deep waterholes and tranquil rock pools - the perfect spot for a swim.
  • Guided Undara Lava Tubes Tour: A small-group tour led by a Savannah Guide into the prehistoric underground volcanic systems.
  • Atherton Tablelands iconic Waterfall Circuit, a world-famous scenic loop that includes
  • Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls, and Ellinjaa Falls.
  • Lake Eacham - a massive, crystal-clear volcanic crater lake bordered by dense rainforest.

What is included

  • Comfortable accommodation (twin-share)
  • All tours listed in the itinerary/entry fees to listed tours and activities
  • Two dedicated, professional female guides who handle all the logistics, driving, and route management
  • Guided travel in a tight-knit group of just 8 women, fostering real connection and lifelong friendships
  • Fresh, healthy meals prepared by your guides at our accommodation bases, alongside custom trek-ready packed lunches
  • Restaurant meals where specified
  • Guided Undara Lava Tubes Tour
  • Venus Gold Battery Experience
  • Carnarvon Gorge Guided Trail Walks
  • All National Park fees and entry to listed activities

What is not included

  • Airfares to the tour starting point or return flights from Cairns and beyond at the conclusion of the trip
  • Personal expenses: Souvenirs, laundry services, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and items of a personal nature
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance (mandatory for all participants)

Itinerary

The Outback Geological & Historic Route. Awaken Your Inner Explorer: Trade the ocean for ancient geology, expansive savannah country, and the raw heart of the Australian outback. The 5-Hour Drive Limit: We aim to keep our driving segments to under 5 hours, ensuring the convoy travels at a relaxed, slow-travel pace. Maleny - Cairns | 14 Nights | Twin Share | Maximum 8 Guests Day 1: Maleny (1 Night): Mountain Air & Welcome to Maleny The Journey : Arrive in the breathtaking Sunshine Coast Hinterland and meet your expert female guides and tight-knit crew of fellow travellers. We will check into our luxury mountain retreat nestled among the rolling green ridges of Maleny . The Magic : As evening settles, we gather for an intimate welcome dinner filled with local artisan produce, raising a glass to the incredible 14-night outback expedition ahead. Day 2: Miles (1 Night): Pioneer Heritage & Outback Pubs The Journey : This morning our adventure starts in earnest as we travel inland along smooth, sealed country highways, keeping our driving blocks easy. The Magic : Step straight back into the late 19th century at the Miles Historical Village Museum , wandering along a completely recreated h

Video

Watch: Taking in Carnarvon Gorge

Video

Watch: Rock Hopping in Carnarvon Gorge

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