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Birdwatching Reef to Rainforest is an exciting combination of tropical wetlands birding and the outer reefs and islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
Spend a private day with an expert birding guide offering full access to an exclusive private wetland reserve and home to over 220 recorded bird species.
Day two is exploring Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef where an amazing 30,000 seabirds have been recorded on the cay at one time. Overall 38 species of birds have been recorded – 35 seabirds and 3 woodland species.
There is ample time to also snorkel around Michaelmas Cay before enjoying the afternoon snorkelling and diving at Hastings Reef where a glass bottom boat tour is also included.
This 2 day package supports two family owned and operated businesses.
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The early morning is invaluable for birdwatchers. Our morning will focus on the Tropical Wetlands and Shared Earth Reserve which is home to over 220 recorded bird species and an exclusive site for us to explore.
After a short 90 minute drive we will arrive at Clancy’s lagoon. This open expanse of water has comfortable walking tracks surrounding the perimeter, providing guests with the opportunity to observe the resident birdlife.
After a short break for morning tea we 4WD to our second location, Pandanus Lagoon. Here we find a large diversity of waders and waterbirds including a massive population of Black Swan. It is also home to kangaroos, echidnas, dingos, snakes and scores of other reptiles. You can explore over 12km of walking trails which criss-cross the wetlands.
A break from the binoculars while we enjoy a picnic style lunch under a shady billabong during the heat of the day. To further our bird watching prospects, we venture into the nearby Atherton Tablelands for the last couple of hours. Locations such as Lake Barrine (Crater Lakes National Park) and Yungaburra have afforded our customers amazing birdlife encounters and opportunities for photographs over the years.
Note: This is a private tour is with a local experienced birdwatching guide and well known wildlife enthusiast.
Leaving the Cairns Marina at 8am means we arrive at Michaelmas Cay at approximately 9.15am.
Birdwatchers will be the first guests to step foot on the island. This offers ample photo opportunities of a island with no other humans in sight. Photo opportunities of the birdlife is endless, especially in the summer season which sees up to 30,000 birds sharing the island.
Birdwatchers are offered a circumnavigation of the island where more species can be sighted and photographed.
If you wish, there is plenty of time to snorkel in the calm, sheltered waters off the beach within the unspoilt fringing coral beds.
Lunch is served on-board which includes two hot dishes and salads as we head over to Hastings Reef and our own exclusive mooring.
At Hastings Reef you can experience the true wonders of this Outer Edge Reef, there are the coral caves, coral overhangs, deep water drop offs, coral canyons, swim throughs and shallow coral bays that are only metres from the side of the vessel.
Along the steep edges there are swirling schools of small fish, colourful parrot fish, turtles, giant clams, “friendly” little reef sharks, bright yellow butterfly fish, pairs of rabbit fish, countless varieties of brightly coloured damsel fish and of course, Nemo.
As well as snorkelling you can join our glass bottom boat tour. This can afford bird sightings and your skipper will be able to explain more about the reef.
The Michaelmas Cay and Hastings Reef cruise gets back into Cairns just after 4pm.
Note: There are opportunities to scuba dive – please ask.
| 1 adult › | $ 1,369 pp |
| 2 adults › | $ 799 pp |
| 3 adults › | $ 659 pp |
| 4 adults › | $ 579 pp |
| 5 adults › | $ 579 pp |
| 6 adults › | $ 529 pp |
| Hostel (optional) › | from $25 pp/pn |
| Hotel (optional) › | from $150 pn |
Accommodation is not included in this package, but it can be provided.
Please ask us for more information.
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ACCOMMODATION STYLES
We know where you stay is just as important as where you go. That’s why we’ve carefully selected memorable, comfortable, locally run accommodation where you’ll connect with and support the local community. And with the ease of unpacking once for your whole trip, you’ll get more time to travel slow and properly immerse yourself in the local area.
Cancellation by Customer (You):
If you cancel 30 days or more in advance of departure: 0% fee
If you cancel 7 to 29 days in advance of departure: 25% fee
If you cancel 3 to 6 days in advance of departure: 50% fee
If you cancel within 48 hours of departure: 100% fee
Unless otherwise stated all refunds will incur a 6% administration fee.
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Travel Insurance:
International travellers should have international travel insurance covering at least medical expenses.
Domestic travellers and those covered by Medicare for hospital treatment should consider domestic travel insurance. This should cover covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
No supplier fees when cancelled at least 30 days in advance.
*credit card processing fees may apply
Yes, and we can help. If you need to make changes such as, updating your contact details or changing the date or time of your activity, contact us by phone, WhatsApp or email.
Yes. In fact, our online payment system encrypts your payment information to protect you against fraud and unauthorised transactions. When paying via emailed payment links you are also protected by the same encryption. Tree Hugger Travel uses internationally recognised secure payment systems to process your transactions.
If you have any problems completing this form or immediate questions please call, whatApp or SMS +61 411 828 821
© 2016 – 2021 Tree Hugger Travel. Made in Queensland.
No supplier fees when cancelled at least 30 days in advance.
Yes, and we can help. If you need to make changes such as, updating your contact details or changing the date or time of your activity, contact us by phone, WhatsApp or email.
Yes. In fact, our online payment system encrypts your payment information to protect you against fraud and unauthorised transactions. When paying via emailed payment links you are also protected by the same encryption. Tree Hugger Travel uses internationally recognised secure payment systems to process your transactions.
Yes we are. Tree Hugger Travel is 100% family owned and operated travel business. When you get in touch you are speaking directly to the family founders.
You will pay the same or less for experiences when booked through Tree Hugger Travel and receive a personal service from our family team. You will also earn Eco Rewards. This loyalty programme empowers you as the gift is making donations to one of the globes most renowned conservation charities, World Land Trust. Just by organising your travel with us makes positive change.
Last minute bookings or immediate questions?
Please Call, WhatsApp or SMS +61 411 828 821
© 2016 – 2021 Tree Hugger Travel. Made in Queensland.
