Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAND SAFARIS: EXPLORING FRASER ISLAND
The only way to explore Fraser Island (besides walking) is with a 4WD. For most travellers, there are three trans-
port options: tag-along tours, organised tours or 4WD hire. This is a fragile environment; bear in mind that the
greater the number of individual vehicles driving on the island, the greater the environmental damage.
Tag-Along Tours
Popular with backpackers, tag-along tours see groups of travellers pile into a 4WD convoy and follow a lead
vehicle with an experienced guide and driver. Rates hover around $350to $400; be sure to check if yours includes
food, fuel, alcohol, etc.
Advantages
Flexibility; you can make new friends fast.
Disadvantages
If your group doesn't get along it's a loooong three days. Inexperienced drivers get bogged in
sand all the time, but this can be part of the fun.
Recommended operators include the following:
Colonial Village YHA
07-4125 1844;
www.yha.com.au/hostels/qld/fraser-capricorn-
MAP
coasts/hervey-bay
)
Hervey Bay.
Dropbear Adventures
(
1800 061 156;
www.dropbearadventures.com.au
)
Ex-Hervey Bay, Rainbow Beach
and Noosa.
Fraser Roving
(
07-4125 6386;
www.fraserroving.com.au
)
Hervey Bay.
Fraser's on Rainbow
(
07-5486 8885;
www.frasersonrainbow.com
)
Rainbow Beach.
Pippies Beach House
(
07-5486 8503;
www.pippiesbeachhouse.com.au
)
Rainbow Beach.
Nomads
07-5447 3355;
www.nomadsfraserisland.com
) Noosa.
MAP
Organised Tours
Most organised tours cover Fraser's hotspots: rainforests, Eli Creek, Lakes McKenzie and Wabby, the coloured
Pinnacles and the
Maheno
shipwreck.
Advantages
Minimum fuss, expert commentary.
Disadvantages
During peak season you could share the experience with 40 others.
Among the many operators:
Cool Dingo Tours
( 07-4120 3333;
www.cooldingotour.com
; 2-/3-day tour from $325/395) Overnight at
lodges with the option to stay extra nights on the island.
Fraser Experience
( 07-4124 4244;
www.fraserexperience.com
; 1-/2-day tour $180/327) Small groups and
more freedom with the itinerary.
Fraser Explorer Tours
(
07-4194 9222;
www.fraserexplorertours.com.au
; 1-/2-day tour $175/319) Highly
recommended.
4WD Hire
You can hire a 4WD from Hervey Bay, Rainbow Beach or on Fraser Island itself. All companies require a hefty
bond, usually in the form of a credit-card imprint, which you
will
lose if you drive in salt water - don't even think
about running the waves!
