fraser island self drive 4wd tours

Fraser Island 4WD Hire

Aussie trax 4x4 rentals is hervey bay's largest and longest established 4wd adventure tour operator for fraser island self-drive experiences.

Testimonials

From Jonas L – “We were three friends with little to none off-road driving experience wanting to visit Fraser Island. We hired a 4×4 from Aussie Trax with full camping equipment. Upon arrival we met a friendly staff who gave the impression that they wanted us to have a great time. The information we received before embarking on our adventure was important as well as thorough. Both the information and the excellent car got us through the challenging areas of Fraser Island. We would recommend Aussie Trax to everyone!”

From thefabulousmissr – “I was nervous hiring and driving a 4wd myself. I’ve never driven one in actual 4wd roads let alone on sand. I’m a 36 year old woman and was traveling with teenagers and other adults without experience. Don’t be worried! Give it a go! Driving it ourselves and choosing our own itinerary was one of the best parts of the whole day. The training before driving is great, the Aussie trax team made sure we felt well trained and confident, and not silly for being inexperienced. I’m definitely planning another trip with just a group of girls. If anything goes wrong, Aussie trax will look after us I’m confident and if you’re a sensible, sober normal person you can totally drive a 4wd on Fraser and I’ll love it!”

From Karl B – “We booked a 4×4 jimny, ferry and accommodating for two nights on Fraser Island. We ended up with so much fun , we watched the video and took the jeep down to the ferry which went without a problem. They were expecting us and then on to the island, were we got to drive . Some of the best off roading I’ve done in years! We found our hotel on the other side of the island which over looked the beach. The room we had, had a nice little kitchen and a balcony overlooking the beach. It was so much fun driving down the beach and on the tracks throughout the island. The three days went really quick, but was about right for us 10 out of 10.”

From Bearl_Jeff – “In our opinion the best way to explore Fraser on your own. The small Jimny 4×4 is just great to roam around the island and drive offroad with all your belongings in the back. Staff was very friendly and pleasing and we had no problems from the very beginning to the drop off of the car. Would always come back to Aussie Trax and Fraser island!”

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Every weekend is an adventure

K’gari (fraser island) self-drive itinerary: suggestions for one, two or three days.

• Post published: 15 August 2018
• Post category: Australia / Oceania/South Pacific / Queensland

Are you planning a trip to K’gari (Fraser Island)? Lucky you! It’s my favourite place in Australia . I am always fascinated by its uniqueness and its diversity. However, a K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary is not easy to create. These tips and itinerary suggestions for K’Gari (Fraser Island) will help you plan the best trip.

These itineraries are optimised for accessing K’gari (Fraser Island) via Rainbow Beach. Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island, which means you will need a 4WD to drive on the island . You may stick to the beach, which is easier, or explore the inland tracks if you are experienced. Driving on the beach is fun and exhilarating, but make sure you still take precautions. Accidents can happen on K’gari (Fraser Island) and driving on sand does have its challenges.

Need accommodation on K’gari (Fraser Island)? Camping on the beach is my favourite (you will need permits to camp on K’gari – Fraser Island ). But if you don’t want to camp, then I highly recommend The Beachcamp Eco Retreat *. We loved our two nights there.

Check the conditions report

The Queensland Government regularly updates the conditions report published on its website . It’s important to check it as you plan your trip as conditions can change quickly. Your K’gari (Fraser Island) itinerary must stay flexible so you can adapt to the new conditions and take minimal risks.

Check the K’gari (Fraser Island) tide times

The tide will impact your itinerary so check the high tide and low tide times before your trip (or here if you’re planning a long time in advance) and print them out so you can adjust your route if needed. There are a few spots on K’gari (Fraser Island) that you cannot cross safely at high tide. Eli Creek, on the east coast, is one that will have a major role in your itinerary planning. We would plan to cross it at least two hours outside of high tide. Always make sure you check the depth of a creek before passing it.

High tide happens approximately one hour later every day. If you are flexible with your dates, you can choose to travel when the tides are the best for the itinerary you wish to do. Most of the time, people are not flexible and have to adapt their itinerary according to the tides on their travel dates.

K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary: one day on the east coast

Many of the must-sees of K’gari (Fraser Island) are located on the east coast. You can drive up or down the beach and stop to check out (from North to South):

• Champagne Pools (short boardwalk and stairs down to the pools, the only place on the island where you can swim in salt water – 1 hour)
• Indians Head (short walk up to the cape – 45 minutes or maybe more if you start spotting many marine animals from the top)
• Maheno Wreck (on the beach)
• Cathedral Beach (on the beach)
• The Pinnacles (on the beach)
• Eli Creek (short boardwalk and back via the river with your floaties if you can – 30 minutes)
• Lake Wabby (long walk – min. 1.5 hours return to the lake; allow 3 hours for the circuit – and if you have time to go up to the lookout it’s worth it!)

You will only be able to check all these places if you start your day early and are lucky with the tide time. It may be challenging, though. It is highly recommended to cross Eli Creek more than 2 hours outside high tide. You can find all these places on this official map from the National Park , and in purple on the map below.

Some people say it’s not worth going all the way up to Champagne Pools if you only have one day to explore K’gari (Fraser Island). Champagne Pools is only a few minutes further than Indians Head, and I personally love Indians Head. It’s one of my favourite places on K’gari (Fraser Island), so I recommend checking it out if you don’t mind spending a lot of time driving. It’s a bit more than 100 kilometres north of the Rainbow Beach barge . But we’re talking about driving on the beach, so it’s a scenic drive!

If you’re not experienced in driving a 4WD and are short on time to explore K’gari (Fraser Island), you may want to consider joining a tour. An organised tour will maximise your itinerary on the day and allow you to see most of the island despite the challenges. I recommend choosing a tour leaving from Noosa ( like this tour, for example *) so you can see the stunning coloured sands of Rainbow Beach too. If you like the idea of driving, you can look for a tag-along tour. There are also tours leaving from Hervey Bay ( like this one *).

K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary: one day on the east coast + Lake McKenzie

Unfortunately, one day is very short to explore all the best places on Kgari (Fraser Island). So if you want to see the reputed Lake McKenzie while still seeing some of the most famous landmarks on the east coast of K’gari (Fraser Island), you will have to make hard choices . You may not be able to drive all the way to Champagne Pools.

On the way to Lake McKenzie, I highly recommend stopping at Central Station. You’ll have seen the lush rainforest growing on the sand while on the 4WD track, but the boardwalk will take you along an unbelievable transparent river in the stunning rainforest. It’s unique in the world.

K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary: one day inland

If it’s your first time visiting K’gari (Fraser Island), I wouldn’t recommend skipping the east beach. It’s where you’ll find the most famous landmarks, and they are famous for a reason. But if you’ve already explored the eastern shore and you’re now making another trip to K’gari (Fraser Island), it’s worth going to the inland tracks. It will lead you to many perched lakes, which form an interesting part of K’gari (Fraser Island). The island hosts more than half of the world’s perched dune lakes. These lakes are made of rainwater, so they are very pure, and their colours are stunning.

There are two exciting inland drives to choose from . You’ll need some 4WD experience before launching your vehicle on these tough drives as you’ll experience soft sands and narrow, winding tracks. Some are one-way, but most of them are two-ways, and you’ll need to be extra careful if you cross another vehicle. It’s bumpy and not recommended for people who have back issues.

My favourite inland track starts at the end of Eurong Beach (Cornwells Break Road) to reach Lake Wabby lookout . Your second stop will be the most iconic site of K’gari (Fraser Island): Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora for the Aboriginals). Then, you can explore one of the world’s most intriguing rainforests at Central Station and the stunning Wanggoolba Creek. The drive will take you to  Lake Birrabeen  and  Lake Boomanjin  before you get back on the beach at Dili Village. It’s a combination of the orange and green tracks on this official map from the National Park , and in orange on the map below.

The second one will take you to a lookout on Knifeblade Sandblow. You’ll then reach  Lake Allom , which is reputed for its turtles (but we didn’t see any, unfortunately). The lake is about 10 km away from the beach but took us a bit more than 30 minutes to reach it. The entire inland track is more than 70 km long and quite tricky, so you need to allow plenty of time to drive it. It will lead you through the forest to Lake   Boomerang  and Lake   Garawongera . It’s the combination of the blue and yellow tracks on this official map from the National Park , and in blue on the map below.

K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary: two days

My two-day K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary is simply a combination of the two one-day routes . Drive on the east coast for one day and pick an inland track for the other day!

K’gari (Fraser Island) self-drive itinerary: three or four days

If you have at least three full days on the island and you are 4WD experienced, you may be interested in going to the far north up to the Sandy Cape lighthouse  (in red on the map below). These places are a lot less visited, and they look stunning. My visit up there is one of my favourite memories of my time in Australia. You’ll need to be lucky with the tides to make it fit in three days.

• Day 1:  Drive up the eastern beach as far away as you can.
• Day 2: Drive all the way to Sandy Cape Lighthouse (or as far as you can go with the tide), explore the area and then start driving down.
• Day 3: Finish the drive back, stopping at some of the famous landmarks on the east beach.

Food and petrol on K’gari (Fraser Island)

Going to K’gari (Fraser Island) is an adventure. You won’t find everything you need on the island and everything you buy on the island will be expensive, so pack accordingly. It is recommended to bring your own food and drinks for the duration of your stay.

If you need something, you will find a general store that sells groceries, bread, alcohol, fuel, and many other things at the Eurong Beach Resort *.

Responsible travel tip: As I am writing this article, there’s no recycling bin on the island. So you may want to bring back with you to the mainland all your bottles and packaging that can be recycled.

The best time to visit K’gari (Fraser Island)

Days are longer in summer than in winter. So if you only have time for a one-day itinerary on K’gari (Fraser Island) and you can choose the season for your visit, I recommend avoiding winter as the sun sets around 5 pm – 5.30 pm. Driving at night is never a good idea in Australia , especially in places where there is a lot of wildlife or when you are not on sealed roads, and K’gari (Fraser Island) combines both of these criteria.

Summer (December to March)  is the wet season in Queensland : it’s hot and humid. There is a higher risk of rain and even storms, especially at the start of the year (January – April). I have been to K’gari (Fraser Island) at this season and had a good time, but it’s a matter of luck.

I personally love Queensland – and K’gari (Fraser Island) – in Autumn and Spring: it’s usually sunny, it’s not too hot and the days are not the shortest. If you plan to swim in the lakes, they are usually less cold in Autumn (and, of course, summer).

Winter is also a beautiful sunny season. Although it gets colder, especially at night, the temperatures during the day are still high. And you get to see humpback whales as you drive on the east beach.

Have you been to K’gari (Fraser Island)? What do you think? Share your experience in the comments below!

Map of these k’gari (fraser island) itineraries.

Where is K’gari (Fraser Island)?

Fraser Island is on the East Coast of Australia , about 200km north of Brisbane. You will need to catch a ferry from the continent to the island , from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach .

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2 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) tag-along  ADVENTURE

Our youth-style tag-along 4wd adventure is a great way to experience the exceptional natural beauty of k'gari (fraser island). join like-minded travellers and your experienced guide on this self-driven 4wd journey to see the stunning lakes, creeks, and rainforests that make up this world heritage listed destination. at night, retreat to your campsite just metres from the beach for drinks and tales by the fire. , tour highlights:  .

Explore the pristine white sand, lush rainforest and unspoilt wilderness of magical K’gari (Fraser Island) by self-drive 4WD with a group of fun, adventurous travellers

Experience driving a 4WD on the beach and sandy island tracks whilst following an experienced guide in a lead vehicle to ensure you are safe and heading to all the best locations

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie)

Venture through majestic ancient rainforests growing on the sand at Pile Valley and Central Station

Soak in the refreshing flowing waters of Eli Creek

Visit the most famous of K’gari’s shipwrecks, the SS Maheno on 75 Mile Beach

Sleep beneath the stars in a private, beach-side campsite which is managed by the Butchulla (K’gari’s First Nations people)

Spot wild dingos, dolphins and dugongs

Tour Inclusions:

Knowledgeable and experienced tour guide

Sleep in an enclosed campsite on K’gari (Fraser Island) just meters from the beach

Fresh, healthy meals for K’gari (Fraser Island) – all dietary requirements catered for with advance notice

2 days of adventure providing plenty of time to explore the World Heritage-listed island

Camping equipment, including tent (twin share), camp mat and sleeping bag.  

Large undercover camp area with music and kitchen facilities, plus power to charge your phone

All camping, National Park and vehicle permits

Return ferry transfers and fuel for 4WDs

Luggage storage in Rainbow Beach

Optional Extras:

Optional Vehicle Damage Liability Reductions ($25 - $50 per person)

Fire Wood ($15 per bag) can be purchased at the safety briefing from Freedom Hostel.

BYO alcohol (no hard liquor or goon allowed - pre-mixed cans ok).

WAS $519 

Day 1: Depart Rainbow Be ach

The morning starts bright & early with our compulso ry tour briefing at 7 am sharp at Freedom Hostel, to receive comprehensive information to prepare you for this exciting journey. Here you will be placed into groups and have the opportunity to organise luggage storage. You will also be taught how to drive safely on Fraser Island ahead of your big adventure!

We aim to depart Freedom Hostel for K'gari (Fraser Island) by 9:30 am, which can take approximately 10 minutes to drive to the barge (ferry). The barge crossing is approximately 15 minutes, and during that time, you may be lucky enough to spot Dolphins or other marine life before arriving on the world’s largest sand island.

Once you arrive, you’ll be traversing the eastern beach - K'gari's (Fraser Islands) own highway with speed limits! Settle in for the journey and enjoy the views as we head north along the beach before stopping for morning tea at one of the many freshwater creeks found on the island.

Following morning tea, we will continue north towards the Maheno Shipwreck, where we’ll stop to share the story of this important landmark, especially it’s use as a hospital ship during wartime.  We have lunch included for you today. The lunch destination will be up to your guide as they’ll find the best spot depending on where you are around that time of the day. We’ll finish up our afternoon at Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a refreshing swim/splash and relaxing sunbathing before heading to our camp.

Meals: Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: K'GARI (FRASER ISLAND) Return to Rainbow Beach

Arise for a quick breakfast before we begin our second day on K'gari (Fraser Island)!

The adventure begins as we drive south to Eurong before heading inland through everchanging vegetation to the rainforest at Central Station. Here you’ll depart your vehicle and follow your guide for a walk alongside beautiful Wanggoolba Creek. Your guide will share the logging history of Central Station along with the indigenous significance of Wanggoolba Creek before sending you on a 1.8 km self-guided walk through the rainforest. You’ll reunite with your guide at the other end of the walk at Pile Valley where you’ll have morning tea surrounded by towering Satinay trees.

From Pile Valley it’s a short drive to the famous Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), arguably the most popular and picturesque highlight of K'gari (Fraser Island). Here, you can enjoy quality time lazing on the pristine sand beaches, swimming, and relaxing in the lake's stunning clear waters. We’ll then have lunch before packing up and returning to Eastern Beach. Once back on Eastern Beach we’ll head south to the barge (ferry). From Inskip Point, it’s only a short drive back into Rainbow Beach, where your adventure ends. We return to Freedom Rainbow Beach between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm.

Meals: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch Do you need a longer K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour? Check out our 3-day Tag Along K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour .

Tour Departure:  

Compulso ry tour safety briefing at 7am at  Freedom Hostels Rainbow Beach , 20  Spectrum Street, Rainbow Beach, Queensland 4581 ​

WAS $519  NOW $469

What to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear

Hat, sunglasses and sunscree n

Swimwear and towel for those wishing to swi m

Refillable water bottle

Small overnight bags only

$2 coins for hot showers 

Rainbow Beach Accommodation (before and after your tour) 

We recommend Freedom Rainbow Beach for accommodation before and after your tour. Situated in the heart of Rainbow Beach, the budget resort has accommodation options to suit every need featuring comfortable 2 bedroom self-contained apartments, family, private double/twin and dorm rooms. Freedom Rainbow beach offers excellent value and facilities for families, couples and independent travellers. Click here to view room options and make a booking. 

Please note: This is a participatory tour. This is a participatory tour. Our tours are participatory-based, which means all members of the tour groups get stuck in and help with the cooking and cleaning! You will be provided with all the necessary food, cooking, and camping equipment. We strongly encourage every traveller to dive in and contribute to the group's experience—it’s a great way to bond and make your trip even more memorable! Age suitability: This tour is suitable only for 18-35-year-olds. If you are outside of this age bracket and wish to participate in it, please get in touch with us prior to booking. 

The itinerary is subject to change: The tides will dictate your arrival time on the island, so we may include a ‘surprise’ on the mainland before heading on the barge to K’Gari. Tides and weather may also dictate the order of the itinerary activities. Your guide will advise of the planned itinerary and the day’s activities at the start of the tour.

What are you looking for?

3 Day / 2 Night Fraser Island Island Expeditions 4WD Tour

$536 per person, island expeditions k’gari tours (fraser) self drive & guided camping tour (ex noosa or rainbow).

3 Days 2 Nights on K’gari with Island Expeditions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, driven by insatiable wanderlust or simply a lover of nature & the great outdoors, K’gari is the perfect destination for all travelers. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget.

Click HERE to book, in relation to availability below!

Tour enquiry, description.

Highlights:

Experiencing K’gari (Fraser Island) natural beauty and sights Departs from Noosa or Rainbow Beach Pre/post tour accommodation available at Nomads Noosa 4×4 Safari where you can drive! Extra time on Fraser Island, stop at iconic locations Visit Lake McKenzie, Champagne Pools, Eli Creek and much more Swim, explore and drive on this 3 day tour Included:

2 nights camping accommodation on K’gari (Fraser) in pre set up for your convenience) All main meals while on the island All camping equipment All National Park access & camping fees Return ferry transfers Fuel Pre-tour safety briefing & driver training (held in Noosa) Free luggage storage (available in Noosa and Rainbow Beach) Knowledgeable and professional guide Vehicle Insurance Excess fee Sleeping bag / pillowcase ($20 cash deposit. Fully refunded on return) Plus exclusive post tour party at KB’s Bar! Not Included:

Breakfast on day 1 Alcohol Fire wood (can be purchased from Nomads Noosa reception on day of departure) What to Bring:

A small day bag that includes your clothes for 3 days Drivers license (no photo copies accepted) Alcohol – anything in a can (no glass, boxed wine or pure spirits) Swimmers, towel Sunblock and hat Warm clothes in winter Rain jacket Insect repellent Closed shoes Water bottle Toiletries Small easy to inflate floating for your swims in the lakes (optional)

Related products

1 Day Fraser Island Tour from Rainbow Beach

This tour takes you to the best of Fraser Island in one day. Includes Lake McKenzie or Lake Birrabeen, Rainforest Walk, Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck

2 Day / 1 Night Fraser Island Dingos 4WD Tour from Rainbow Beach

One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of K’Gari (Fraser Island) is on a self-drive 4WD adventure with Discovery Fraser Island. 4WD through these stunning sights and get up close and personal, viewing the beautiful lakes, creeks, and rainforests that make up this wonderful Island, guided by your lead driver. At night, retreat to your own private cosy campsite to share tales and marshmallows by the fire.

2 Day / 1 Night Fraser Island Resort Stay (must be booked in groups of 3)

Fraser island overnight tour ex rainbow beach.

2 Day / 1 Night Fraser Island 4WD Beach House Tour from Hervey Bay

Fraser Dingo 2 Day 1 Night Beach House 4wd Tour - ex Hervey BayExplore ancient rainforests, stunning lakes, and unique landscapes on an overnight 4wd guided tagalong tour. Camp under ancient giants in the central rainforest of K'gari.

What to bring

What is included.

3 Day Fraser Island Self Drive Tour

Cabins on the beach, drive a 4x4, swim in beautiful lakes, explore ancient tropical rainforests, eat amazing food and make new friends.

This tour provides travelers with an authentic 3 day, self-drive safari to Fraser Island . On tour you can drive yourself in our trusty Toyota 4WD 's or let the tour guide take over for you. 

Some of the highlights we'll explore are  Seventy Mile Beach ,  Lake McKenzie , Central Station ,  Eli Creek ,  Lake Wabby , Maheno Shipwreck , Champagne Pools  and the famous  Indian Head . This means plenty of swimming, trekking, relaxing & learning about the islands flora and fauna.

• Optional: Drive an automatic 4x4
• Beach Cabins accommodation
• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Dietary requirements catered for
• Explore the best highlights
• Hot Showers & Toilets
• USB in vehicles for charging
• Accommodation Transfer
• Knowledgable & Experienced Guide
• Air-Conditioned Vehicle
• 100% Eco Experience
• All Fees and Taxes

Welcome to Fraser Island!

Start and finish is from Rainbow Beach and Noosa Heads. Pick up and drop off at accommodation is included.

Our 3 Day/2 Night Wilderness Beach Camping Adventure is the best way to spend 3 magical days on this paradise island called K’gari. You know it as Fraser Island but after 2 nights on the beach, camping under the stars you’ll see the island’s magic and know why this special places has long been called K’gari.

Our tours are unforgettable for all the right reasons because sharing such an amazing place with wonderers like you is what we love to do and luckily for us, we’re pretty good at it. As equally important to us as great customer service is respecting the land and it’s traditional owners. A lot of the magic that we share with you on tour comes from the teachings of our First Nations People and it is our honour to be able to share it with you.

Our 3 Day tour features all the quality camping gear you need, fully automatic vehicles, a packed itinerary, heaps of activities, lots of super fresh yummy food and a passionate tour guide. Our wilderness camp us also equipped with a toilet, 2 showers, fresh water and big cool boxes for your beers too!

During our 3 Day Adventure we'll visit the following:

Lake McKenzie - Swim in Fraser Island’s most famous lake, possibly the world’s most famous lake; crystal clear Lake McKenzie. This freshwater lake averages between 22º and 27º and is surrounded by a white silica sand beach and eucalypt forest, it’s picture perfect.

Indian Head - A beautiful headland located on the east coast of K’gari – Fraser Island. A sacred place to be respected and admired for its amazing 360º view. From here you can spot an abundance of marine life and if you happen to be visiting at the right time of year it’s THE SPOT to see Humpback Whales from Fraser Island.

Maheno Shipwreck - Learning about the journey of the historical Maheno Shipwreck before she came to rest on the island is one of the most fascinating stories you will hear on your Fraser Island tour with us. This rusty old shipwreck has had many lives and even hosted a wonky wedding after she ran aground, but now she lays to rest where some say, she belongs.

Central Station - The rainforest on Fraser Island is the kind of place that we read about it in mythical books. A magical forest that has a voice of her own, towering trees that sway with the breeze and animals that make strange noises. This is the heart of K’gari, where dinosaur plants survive and rainforest thrives.

Champagne Pools - About 70km north of our Wilderness camp, the bubbling Champagne Pools are simply irresistible. It’s the only place that you can safely swim in the ocean on Fraser Island and it’s crystal clear. With lots of little fishes to spot too, it’s a natural aquarium so feel free to bring your snorkel mask but it’s not essential.

Eli Creek - Eli Creek is the largest freshwater creek on the east coast of Fraser Island. A natural lazy river, this pristine creek is great for a refreshing swim all year round. With a constant temperature of 18º it’s the best wake up on a hot day and beats any hangover cure that we’ve ever heard of ha!

Lake Wabby - Lake Wabby is the island’s hidden little gem. Buried deep in the bush you have to take a 2.5 km hike through sand dunes and bush tracks just to be able to get to the lake. Home to some rather large catfish, Lake Wabby is unlike any other lake on the island, it’s the emerald jewel in the island’s crystal crown of lakes.

75 Mile Beach - 75 Mile Beach is, well it’s a road. It’s the island highway and you’ll travel all of it during your 3 Day Tour. An 80km highway of stunning coastal line, 75 Mile Beach has to be the most scenic drive you’ll ever take.

Cooloola National Park - By starting or ending your tour in Noosa you get the chance to take the scenic drive down Rainbow Beach, past the beautiful coloured sands. This drive is only available on a low tide and is subject to weather conditions. Otherwise, you get to drive through the beautiful Cooloola National Park which usually involves seeing a few Kangaroos!

And more - Only when in Australia… if you’re holidaying or travelling in the land down under, you are bound to have a bucket list of things that you need to experience. Learning to play an authentic Didgeridoo and throwing a Boomerang has to be right up there. Well on our tour you can do both and the fun doesn’t stop there. We also have heaps of beach games, cards and even Jumbo Jenga at our camp!

Your Accommodation:

Beach Cabins accommodation. Shared room (max 6) or upgrade to a private room for Twin and Queen options. All linens including shower towels are included in all room types.

Packed with healthy goodness, our menu is designed to keep you feeling great throughout your adventures with us. A fresh deli lunch is lovingly prepared for you daily as well as 2 very tasty dinners; an Aussie BBQ and Chicken/Vege Stir Fry. And a healthy brekky with eggs, toast, cereals and hot drinks is served at the camp on the morning of each day’s adventure.

The Vehicles

If our experience has taught us anything it’s that Toyota Landcruisers are the best!  With a fleet of these beasty trucks, we are confident in saying that our 4WD’s are some of the easiest to drive off road. With an automatic transmission and in constant 4WD you can let your hair down and have some fun as you cruise along the beach in one of our Drop Bear Landcruisers.

• Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
• Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
• Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
• Hat and sunglasses

EQUIPMENT / OTHER

• Towel & toiletries
• Insect repellent
• Refillable water bottle
• Mp3 Player / iPod
• Automatic Toyota 4WDs
• Return ferry transfers

ACCOMMODATION 

• Beach Cabins accommodation. Private room upgrades available. 
• 2 Breakfasts
• Plenty of drinking water and snacks
• Fees, Taxes and Insurance
• Experiences and Knowledgable Guides

Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organized through your travel agent.

Preparing for the trip

Where can i get more information about this trip.

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. 

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre ( www.traveldoctor.com.au ) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I take?

You may bring a backpack and suitcases and it will be stored securely in our trailer or under the bus during the trip. We recommend bring a smaller day pack to store your daily essentials such as drinks, jackets and sunscreen while on tour.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.

If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

Generally you will not have enough time to do laundry whilst on tour. You will be having far too much fun! However, for longer tours heading towards Adelaide involving hostel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes if really need. Please enquire by contact us directly via email or phone.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours in the Northern Territory you will need a sleeping bag. The Northern Territory can get very cold at night, especially during the months of June and July. If you don't have one then they are available for hire. Please refer to the "What to bring" section of the tour page for pricing.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.

Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe.

This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

For camping tours internet will not be available.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble. 

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group.

Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.

If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.

Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.

Booking the trip

Do i have to book this tour online.

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at [email protected] and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.

Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at [email protected] or call us.

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.

However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.

If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.

Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me.

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.

Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.

The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.

As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

What type of groups go on these tours?

Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.

Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.

For more information please contact us directly.

How many people will be on tour?

Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.

Is there an age limit?

We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Not really. The centre of Australia is quite dry and there is very few places where we are allowed to swim. However, for tours heading upwards towards Darwin there may be areas for swimming. If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information.

Cost and Fees

What does "paid locally" mean.

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

Whilst on tour

What will the food be like.

Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve picnic sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner - This can vary between pastas, bbqs, rices and other hearty food to keep you energized! We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.

Can you cater of special diets?

We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations.

Where do I meet the tour?

Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.

“Literally rocked my already high expectations!!”

“fraser is awesome”, “the whole trip was absolutely amazing”, “awesome”, “we had a great time on fraser island.”, “10/10 you get to see plenty of wildlife, and the views and swimm”, “amazing experience”, “amazing trip, great guides”, “great guides, beautiful scenery and wildlife, authentic aussie c”, “great tour for exploring”, “great experience, amazing island”, “great camping trip you won't forget”, “absolute amazing tour”, “fantastic”, “dingo trip”, “amazing”, “once in a life time”, “amazing, fun, best trip i’ve done on east coast”, “the best trip i’ve done on the east coast”, “this tour group is the best”, “rebecca r”, “3 day tour”, “dingos 3 day camping tour - unreal”, “another world with an excellent guide”, “10/10 would recommend”, “great tour, wonderful guide would definitely recommend ”, “would do it again”, “recommend”, “100% recommended”, “amazing tour highly recommend”, “definitely recommend”, “i trusted the muzz, will you”, “trust the muzz”, “unbelievable tour”, “luke is the best and fraser island is as well”, “incredible experience”, “an amazing experience - highly recommend”, “thanks bretto. brilliant experience.”, “great and fun tour”, “must do”, “amazing”, “thanks tour guide dan”, “amazing tour and tour guide beaver”, “amazing tour. benny boiii”, “no words”, “great “once in a lifetime” experience”, “awesome trip, lovely people, paradise island.”, “great tour, great mems”, “dan is amazing ”, leave a review:, request call, our destinations:.

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Self Drive Tour & Car Hire – Fraser Island & Rainbow Beach

Choose a self drive tour of fraser island, call rainbow beach adventure centre 4wd hire for a quality car.

If you have heard of Fraser Island, you are surely aware of its innate beauty. The world’s largest sand island welcomes somewhere in the neighbourhood of 500,000 visitors each and every year. The best way to see it all is a self-drive tour of Fraser Island. Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire can provide you with a stylish luxury GXL Series Toyota Land Cruiser for your ventures around the island. There is much to see and do and if you want to travel on the island you need a four wheel drive vehicle to do so.

The History of Fraser Island

Queensland’s largest island, Fraser Island was once a massive logging settlement. Logging began in the 1860s and continued until 1991 when environmental concerns ended the trade. In the 1950s, sand mining began. The island is rich in deposits of zircon, monazite, rutile, and ilmenite, but mining ceased when all leases ceased. One of the major landmarks that you can visit while touring the island is the S.S. Maheno. The Scottish ocean liner shipwrecked on the east coast of Fraser Island in 1935. The remains are still there today. Today, tourism is the biggest industry and to see what the island has to offer you can hire a car and explore.

Choose Us for Off-Road 4 x 4 Hire in Rainbow Beach

As the Gateway to Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach, located south of the island, is also an area worth visiting on your off road holiday. It is also the home of Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire. Our family owned business has been in operation since 1999 and we understand the area, what it has to offer, and how to get you into a 4WD vehicle at a much lower price. If you are heading to Fraser Island, you can hire a vehicle from us at a much lower rate than taking a car from Hervey Bay. With our early bird discounts and flexible rates, we can not only provide you with an awesome vehicle for your adventure but do it at a very competitive price.

Things You Must Do on Fraser Island

The island is vast and at Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire we can provide you with one day or multiple day car hire on Fraser Island. With your vehicle, you can explore the island on your own. There are 120 kilometres of beach highway which will take you to the S.S. Maheno shipwreck if you like. You will be amazed at the beaches and their stunning coloured sands.

If you enjoy fishing, you can appreciate one of the world’s best beach fishing experiences while on the island. There are numerous hot spots like Indian Head, Sandy Cape, and the Kingfisher Bay Resort where anglers can fish for a variety of species. You will find dart, whiting, tailor, and jewfish at all times of the year.

When planning your self-drive tour of Fraser Island, start with the right vehicle. Call us at Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire on (07) 5486 3288 and arrange your car hire. We provide air compressors in every vehicle as well as a number of other items free of charge. You will find that it is much cheaper to do a self-drive rather than a tag along tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire

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13 Spectrum Street, Rainbow Beach QLD 4581

Fantastic service, great vehicle. Driving without any hassles is exactly what we needed for our first time on Fraser, the cruiser was perfectly setup for our requirements and the instructions,… - Mr Polish

Top service from Wendy, clearly knows her stuff and was a pleasure to deal with. car was awesome and we had a sick day over on fraser. cheers guys! - Steven Boyle

Where do I start? We LOOOOOVE Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4WD Hire!! Talk about quality and the most friendly service! Talk about being provided with everything you may need for… - Wanderlust Storytellers

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Discover what the Island has to offer on 4 wheels

Fraser Island 4WD Hire & Tours

Couples 4wd camper for two with the double bed.

Use the code 100CAMPER for a booking of 3 or more days $100 discount ~ valid for travel to 31st August 2024

Best K’gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tours

Pick your K’gari Adventure

We offer a range of products and packages to suit different K’gari (Fraser Island) experiences. Tailor make your holiday with a 4WD hire, 4WD tour or hiking package, pick your experience below. Other packages also offered, please see individual pages for more information. We are based in the beautiful Hervey Bay, gateway to the Fraser Coast and Fraser Island. All our packages depart and return from Hervey Bay.

1 Day 4WD Hire

Enjoy the beauty of K’gari with a one day 4wd hire. See five of Fraser’s iconic sites including: Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora), Central Station, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck, Pinnacles.

Multi-Day 4WD Hire

Explore K’gari with your friends or family. Stay 2, 3, 4 or more days, have the freedom of a 4WD with a personalised itinerary to see the best sites.

Couples 4WD Camper

Experience K’gari in a 4WD Camper. Priced for 2 people this package includes everything you need for 2, 3, 4 or more days on Fraser Island to slow down, relax, and enjoy.

Tagalong Tours

Join Fraser Dingo 4wd Adventures for our relaxed and friendly guided 4wd tour, staying in beach house accommodation on K’gari. Adventure by day – comfort by night!

4WD Camping

Want to experience four wheel driving on K’gari and spend your nights camping under the magic night sky? Our camping package is the hassle free way pack less and see more.

Fraser Island Hiking

Explore K’gari on foot, with one of Fraser Island Hiking’s unique hiking packages. Discover the untouched nature when you slow down and walk through the diverse landscapes.

Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire & Tours

Discover Fraser Island’s best sites & locations in a 4WD

K’gari (formally Fraser Island) has some incredibly beautiful and unique sites that can be seen and enjoyed when you adventure with us either with our guided 4wd Tag-along Tours, self-guided 4WD hires or hiking packages.

Some of these unique sites include the famous Lake Mackenzie, Central Station, Pile Valley, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck, Indian Head and Champagne Pools. Click below to read further about these sites and the locations you can see on your K’gari trip!

5 Star Fraser Island Tours

First-Hand Fraser Dingo Experiences

3 Day 4wd Fraser Island Guided Tour

My friend and I had an amazing weekend on Fraser Island! It was so much fun exploring that beautiful island during the day and we enjoyed the evenings at the campsight too.

Multi-Day Fraser Island 4WD Hire

I rent a 4×4 lasting two days on Fraser Island. the 4×4 was simply perfect and very suitable for the island. I clearly recommend this company, the best on Fraser Island, thank you again.

3-Day 4WD Hire on Fraser Island

We hired a car and camping package and stayed at central station for 3 nights, the itinerary provided was awesome and took all the stress out of planning three days on Fraser.

Fraser Island Accommodation

Great tour! Really well organized and amenities were better than expected. I really liked the accommodations – it was very clean and a better option for me than a tent.

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• Best Fraser Island Tours vs Tag Along vs Self Drive

In this guide, I’m sharing the best Fraser Island tours as well as tag along tours and whether you should hire a 4WD and do it alone in a self driving option. Considering there are a fair few ways to visit the world’s largest sand island, I’m breaking it all down so it’s easier for you to understand what’s the best way for you to see this popular East Coast bucket list place.

After my recent visit to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island), it’s only right that I share some home truths about what to expect before you decide on how to visit the World Heritage listed K’gari.

Table of Contents

Top K’gari Tours

3 day tour with k’gari explorer tours from hervey bay.

You can read all about the 3 Day K’gari Explorer Tour which we did and absolutely loved. This popular 3 day tour includes a stay in the beautiful Kingfisher Bay Resort as well a K’gari Beach Resort so there’s no camping involved.

You’ll spend the first day at Kingfisher Bay Resort before embarking on a 2 day adventure around K’gari (Fraser Island) to see all of the main sights. It’s a good enough time not to feel rushed while enjoying everything and learning loads on the most comprehensive tour without the stress of getting bogged or having problems with the car hire for the discerning traveller.

2 day tour from Hervey Bay

If you’re short on time, why not do the 2 Day tour from Hervey Bay instead of the three day tour to K’gari (Fraser Island)? You’ll see the same sights except you won’t spend a night at the beautiful Kingfisher Bay Resort. Even though you’ll spend less time at the World Heritage listed K’gari, you won’t miss out on the main tourist attractions.

2 day tour from Rainbow Beach

If you’re heading up from Sunshine Coast but don’t want to drive as far to Hervey Bay, why not jump on this 2 day tour from Rainbow Beach instead? Visit the World’s largest sand island and see all of the same sights as you would in the 2 day tour from Hervey Bay and you’ll join the coach at Lake Mckenzie for two days of fun.

Private tour with Kingfisher Bay Resort

If you’d prefer to have someone drive you and your loved ones around Fraser Island, book a private tour where you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Hervey Bay. This tailor made itinerary is perfect for those who are looking to visit specific places and spend your own time at them. And by the way, Kingfisher Bay Resort is fantastic too!

Day tours from Hervey Bay

A Fraser Island day trip from Hervey Bay with K’gari Explorer Tour is a great way to see the island if you’re stuck for time. You’ll get to see almost the same sights as you would in the three day tour except Kingfisher Bay Resort and Lake Wabby. Note that you won’t get as much time at the famous attractions on this full day tour, but you’ll be able to tick them off your list when visiting the world’s largest sand island at K’gari (Fraser Island).

Explore the remote western side of Fraser Island

Looking to do something a little different on K’gari, formerly Fraser Island? Why not explore the remote Western side of the World Heritage listed K’gari by jumping on this day tour which includes kayaking, snorkelling, swimming and hiking as well as lunch.

Fraser Island 4-Hour Eco-Sailing Adventure

Meet at Hervey Bay for an unforgettable four hour eco-sailing adventure to the calm waters of the Great Sandy Strait. Here you’ll head to the heart of the dolphin playground while enjoying the pristine waters of Pelican Bank. This is a fantastic relaxing half-day trip for anyone looking for things to do in Hervey Bay.

Swim with whales in Fraser Island

Hervey Bay and K’gari (Fraser Island) is some to some of the best whale watching tours in Australia. Jump on this affordable 9 hour day trip to swim with whales ! You’ll also get an opportunity to kayak in the crystal clear waters of Awinya or Bowarradt Creek while cruising along the pristine Great Sandy Strait in Fraser Island.

Tag along tours & self drive options

Tag along tours are a great way to drive Fraser Island without having to worry too much about getting stuck on your own. You’ll have a tour guide who will drive one of the car while the other cars follow along. With these tours, you will spend the entire trip driving with other strangers and from what we saw, these tours cater for a backpacker market.

Bare in mind, you’ll be given a run down about the places you visit when you arrive at them but not while you’re driving there so you won’t learn as much as you would if you were on a K’gari Explorer tour. You’ll also need to be over 21 to drive on these tours, but if you’re younger you can still join, just not drive. Most cars don’t have aircon either so you might find it quite hot if you’re in a car with eight people.

If you’re thinking of doing it alone and hiring a 4WD, just bare in mind that if you get bogged or stuck at any point, you’ll more than likely have to wait for another car to come past and help you as there’s very little phone reception on the island. Personally, if you’re not confident with driving on sand, I wouldn’t do this option.

Pippies tag along camping safari

Pippies Fraser Island Tours and Beachouse is located in Rainbow Beach offering multi day tours from there, Noosa and Brisbane for anyone wanting to do a tag along tour which includes camping. You’ll see all of the sights, and camp under the stars at the very basic campsites in Fraser Island.

Fraser Dingo 4WD Adventures

Fraser Dingo 4WD Adventures offer multi day tag along tours offer all the sights but instead of camping, you’ll stay at a private beach house in share rooms.

We had planned to book the couples 4WD self drive and do a self-drive but the cars are actually pretty small. Considering we always overpack, I now know these cars would have been way too small for us!

Hire a car from Kingfisher Bay Resort

While most of the car companies are based on the mainland, why not hire a 4wd from Fraser Island so you don’t have to worry about paying all the fees for bringing a car over. If you hire a 4WD from Aussie Trax at Kingfisher Bay Resort , you can choose the length of the rental from half-day options and more including motels, and camping.

Things to know about booking a tour over a tag-along and hiring a 4WD for self-drive

If you’re unsure which route to take when booking your tour, here’s some tips I learnt on my recent visit.

1. Everyone gets stuck in the sand

We did the 3 night K’gari Explorer Tour and even our tour guide was an ex military driving instructor, driving one of the biggest vehicles on the island has got stuck in the sand from time to time. If you’re considering doing the tag-long or hiring a 4WD to drive it alone, if it’s your first time driving on the sand, consider that you will most likely get stuck a lot. You won’t be driving on the road, it’s literally all sand from the moment you get off the ferry.

We did see cars literally abandoned on the island because they had been rolled or the tyres blew up etc. There is a towing service which I heard is expensive to get towed back to Hervey Bay. Be also careful about how fast you go because there are police on the island who will stop you.

2. You won’t learn as much on a tag along or self-drive

Our guide Sarge is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about K’gari that he taught us so much about the island during our tour. If you did a self-drive 4wd hire, you won’t learn anything about the places to visit in Fraser Island or discover the history behind them. It would essentially be like rocking up to Lake Mckenzie or Eli Creek and knowing nothing about them.

This is similar with the tag along tours where you get to drive a 4wd but follow a tour guide. You won’t learn anything about the places while driving until you arrive at a tourist attraction. So, you’ll just be driving from one place to the next without really getting a good understanding of it like you would on the K’gari Explorer Tour.

3. If you rely on Google Maps, you’ll probably get lost

Fraser Island is pretty remote.The majority of the island is rainforest and mostly without phone reception, so if you get lost or stuck, you’ll have to hope and wait for another car to pass you by. You’ll need to bring a paper map with you when exploring the island as you could end up getting lost several times.

4. You’ll need to be more prepared than you think

If you’re thinking of hiring a 4WD or coming to the island in your own car, then be prepared to bring everything with you. For example, if you’re camping you’ll need to bring your own toilet with you, (you’ll literally be camping on the sand opposite the beach), as well as a shovel and all the necessary pieces of equipment to get you out of the sand if needed. You’ll also need to get camping permits and pay for national park fees as well.

Let’s not forget about understanding the tide times as well. This will be crucial for driving K’gari (Fraser Island) if you’re doing a self-drive option because you’ll be driving a lot along the Seventy Five Mile Beach.

More Fraser Island travel guides

Need more inspiration for your next trip to K’gari? Check out our popular guides!

• 31 Best Things To Do In Fraser Island (K’gari)
• 7 Best Fraser Island Day Trips From Hervey Bay
• What The K’gari Explorer Tour To Fraser Island Looks Like
• 15 Things To Know About Planning A Fraser Island Trip
• 10 Tips To Know Before Visiting Eli Creek In Fraser Island
• 13 Things You Might Not Know About Lake Mckenzie In Fraser Island
• 12 Crucial Things To Know About The Champagne Pools In Fraser Island
• Tips For Visiting The Famous Maheno Shipwreck On Fraser Island
• My Honest Fraser Island Kingfisher Bay Resort Review

Best Fraser Island Tours

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Fraser Island 4×4 self drive: a 3 day itinerary to this famous island in Australia

Fraser Island is one of the most beautiful places on the East Coast of Australia! There are many cool things to do on the world’s largest sand island. For the ones who love camping in the outdoor and go off the beaten path, exploring Fraser Island by four-wheel drive is a must!

In this blog, you read everything you need to know about a road trip on Fraser Island by 4×4. We share our experiences, tell you where to rent a 4wd for Fraser Island, inform you on top-attractions and give you a 3-day itinerary for Fraser Island.

3 days on Fraser Island with a 4wd: our experiences!

Here we go, in our big four-wheel drive towards Fraser Island. Below you read about our experiences while staying for three days on Fraser Island. For us the itinerary below was perfect, perhaps it will be for you too!

Day 1: Rainbow Beach, Double Island and Fraser Island

Close to Fraser Island, you have a lovely beach called Rainbow Beach, which borders the Cooloola Recreation Area. You can explore this peninsula either on foot or by 4wd. We go for the last option and make a loop via Rainbow Beach, Double Island , and travel back inland through the magnificent Cooloola Recreation Area.

Tip : if you have extra time, consider visiting Double Island too! This peninsula is located near Rainbow Beach and contains an old lighthouse, beautiful bays and is a good test to drive on the sand.

In the afternoon we go, leave towards Fraser Island. After a short ferry crossing, we drive onto the beach. A strange feeling, driving on the soft sand during low tide. On one side you see the turquoise sea, with high waves, on the other side you see dunes, some rocks and many small creeks.

Note: you are only allowed to drive on Fraser Island’s beach during low tide.

Dingoes on Fraser Island: the natural resident of Fraser Island

After only a few kilometres of driving, we are welcomed by the famous local inhabitant: the dingo! Dingoes are wild animals that look exactly like dogs. The dingo is descended from the wolf and is beautiful to see.

Here on Fraser Island, dingoes are protected and often curious to new visitors. We drive slowly past the dingo. After reading leaflets on how to deal with dingoes we are a bit scared of them. Later on, we see many more dingoes. If you keep your distance and don’t pay attention to them, they will ignore you too. So, don’t worry about them, but keep in mind they are wild animals!

Day 2: Exploring the 75-mile beach road, the Champagne Pools and Lake Allom

After our first night sleeping at a beach campground, we get up early. At five o’clock to be precise, because we want to catch the sunrise at a large shipwreck . We arrive right on time and it is beautiful!

We continue our journey via the  75-mile beach road (which is the so-called highway of Fraser Island) to the Champagne pools. On our way we make a quick stop to pitch our tent at another campground close to the ocean. This way we don’t have to do this tonight!

Note: Most campgrounds are in the middle of nature, only marked by some poles. At these campsites you won’t find toilets, running water, electricity or what so ever. It is just you and mother nature.

Relaxing in the Champagne Pools of Fraser Island

When we arrive at the Champagne Pools , we realize how popular this place is! It’s one of the few places where you can swim and cool off safely in seawater. The rest of the sea is full of sharks, jellyfish and has a strong current.

During high tide, the small pools fill up with water. The foamy seawater that floats into these pools is the reason why they are called the Champagne Pools. It is a lovely place to cool off, however, there is no shade. So bring sunscreen and a hat.

Spotting sharks from Indian Head and swimming with turtles in Lake Allom

After an hour of relaxation at the Champagne Pools, we drive to Indian Head. Indian Head is the highest point of Fraser Island. From this viewpoint, you can spot sharks, dolphins and turtles!

Our next stop is Lake Allom. But first, we have to fill up our water tank and take a shower at a paid campground.  Lake Allom is located in the inland of Fraser Island. A dirt road takes you through dense tropical rainforest. Although the water is brown-coloured, it is safe to swim. At Lake Allom, you can spot many small turtles and you can make a nice walk around the lake.

We end our second day with our self-cooked couscous salad. The best part? Enjoying our diner with a glass of wine on the beach and watching the sun slowly set!

Day 3: Hiking and swimming in the best lakes of Fraser Island!

It’s a new day, a new adventure awaits us! Again we drive on the beach. It’s low tide, so the sea is far away from our 4wd. Half an hour later we arrive at Eli Creek , a small freshwater river that flows into the sea. A perfect place to cool off!

Hiking on big sand dunes all the way to Lake Wobby

Our next stop is Lake Wobby , a green lake in the middle of a desert-like landscape surrounded by thick forest. A nice walk of approximately an hour which offers great views! Even better, swimming in this marvellous lake!

Lake McKenzie on Fraser Island: the most beautiful lake I have ever seen!

We drive towards Lake McKenzie . And wow, that is really the highlight of Fraser Island! A beautiful turquoise lake, with white sand surrounded by forests. The deeper you go, the darker the water becomes! It almost feels like we are on Bora Bora!

Unfortunately, Lake McKenzie is also our last sight here on Fraser. After one last night camping at the Central Station campsite, we drive via the 75-mile beach back to Hookpoint . Here it’s time to say goodbye to Fraser Island and our amazing 4×4 jeep with which we have explored Fraser Island!

Read all about Brisbane , the place from where we drove to Fraser Island!

What is Fraser Island and where is it located in Australia?

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. The island has many beaches, tropical rainforest and wonderful freshwater lakes.

Map of Australia including Fraser Island

Fraser is located in northeastern Australia, a three-hour drive from Brisbane. You can only enter Fraser Island per four-wheel drive. Normal cars are not allowed on the island (there are no roads on Fraser Island).

Click here for the best Australia East Coast itineraries !

How many days do you need for Fraser Island?

We recommend spending a minimum of three days on Fraser Island. There is a lot to see, the island is quite large and the tides make it difficult to travel fast. We stayed four days and three nights at Fraser Island which was perfect.

Tip : make sure you have enough fuel with you. There are four (very expensive) gas stations on the island.

Want to see more of eastern Australia? Visit Byron Bay or Noosa on the Sunshine Coast!

Fraser Island things to do and see:

There are many things to do and see on Fraser Island. Below you find a map with the top attractions of Fraser Island.  Use the map and explanation below to compile your own itinerary for Fraser Island.

Map of Fraser Island top attractions: Things to do and see!

75 mile beach of fraser island.

The entire east coast of Fraser is a beautiful long golden beach. At low tide, you can drive for hours on the  75-mile beach road. Enjoy riding on the sandy beaches but keep in mind the maximum speed (e.g 60 km/hour).

Warning: Don’t even think about driving through and near the seawater since this can damage the cars!

Floating on Eli Creek in Fraser Island

Eli Creek is a beautiful freshwater river that flows into the beach. The water is cool and there is a soft current. Bring a floaty and you can have hours of fun floating from one end of the river to the other!

Sunrise or sunset at Maheno Shipwreck on Fraser Island

In the middle of the beach, on the water’s edge, lies a huge shipwreck, the SS Maheno . On July 7, 1935, this ship was hit during a cyclone and eventually washed up on Fraser Island. The wreck is still there and has become a popular landmark on Fraser.

Indian Head on Fraser Island

In the north of the 75 Mile Beach, you will find the Indian Head hill . After a short hike, you can spot sharks, turtles, dolphins and sometimes even whales in the water around Fraser Island.

Champagne Pools on Fraser Island

The Champagne Pools are a must-see on Fraser. These are pools surrounded by rocks which fill up with water during high tide. This is the only place on Fraser where it is safe to swim in seawater.

Tip: swimming in the Champagne Pool is a popular activity and it is therefore packed with tourists between 10 am and 3 pm.

Lake Allom on Fraser Island

Lake Allom is a less-visited landmark on Fraser Island, but it is definitely worth a stop. Especially to see the small freshwater turtles that live in the water. They come to you immediately when you step into the water.

Lake Wabby on Fraser Island

This beautiful bright green lake is located in a large sand dune between the forests. Every year Lake Wabby gets a little smaller because more sand blows from the dunes into the lake.

The great contrast between the white sand and the green water is cool to see! You reach Lake Wabby after a hike of 2.5 kilometres from the beach or 1 kilometre from the inland route.

Note : the road to Lake Wabby is quite bumpy and full of tree roots and potholes. So drive slowly and stay safe.

Lake Mckenzie on Fraser Island!

Our absolute highlight in terms of activities on Fraser Island was the visit to Lake Mckenzie . This beautiful clear blue lake with pearl white sand feels like a true paradise!

Tip: make sure to plan enough time for Lake Mckenzie! This is the perfect place to spend a whole afternoon relaxing and admiring this picture-perfect lake!

Everything you need to know about renting a 4×4 for Fraser Island

We did a self-drive road-trip on Fraser Island. By 4wd, we had complete freedom to explore this beautiful island at our own pace. This is something we can highly recommend! It is a great adventure and with the right guidance completely safe!

We rented our 4×4 car and camping gear at Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire *. This nice family business which has well-maintained Landcruisers and helps you planning your itinerary while informing you about the tides and more you need to know on driving on Fraser Island.

Is a self drive on Fraser Island with a 4wd dangerous?

No, if you follow the rules, a self-drive on Fraser Island is completely safe. Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire provides two videos on how to drive safely on a 4wd. Watching this video helped us a lot and made sure we could really enjoy Fraser Island.

Useful tips for driving offroad on Fraser Island:

• Take into account the tides. During high tide, it is forbidden to drive on the beaches because you can get stuck.
• Respect the speed limits on Fraser Island.
• Pay attention to the small rivers that run from the mainland into the see.

We never got stuck in the sand. I guess that has to do with the quality of the vehicles of Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire.  However, if you get stuck, use the provided shovel and a large piece of wood to set yourself free.

Do you have cellphone connection on Fraser Island?

In most places, you have little to no phone connection on Fraser Island. The map that comes with Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire shows a number of places where your phone can reach with a Telstra SIM card.

If you have the Optus provider, you only have cellphone coverage at Central Station. Besides, landline telephones are available at ranger stations so that you can still make calls.

Where do you rent a four-wheel drive for Fraser Island?

As you already notice, we are a big fan of Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire . This car-rental company is located in Rainbow Beach close to the barge. They take plenty of time for you, think along and explain everything about the car.

Since Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire is a small family business, there is a lot of room for personal attention! This isn’t a big commercial and therefore detached car rental company. Tessa and Shenae, our contact persons were highly dedicated to giving us an amazing experience, which we definitely had!

The four-wheel drives you rent for Fraser are well maintained and are easy to drive.

Click here for more information on Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire.

How do you plan an itinerary for Fraser Island?

Where to sleep on fraser island: hotels and campgrounds on fraser island.

There are a number of hotels on Fraser Island that range from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. However, what we did and what we recommend, is camping on Fraser Island.

There are a number of campgrounds on Fraser and there are also special areas where you can camp on the beach. The latter is really cool! You can hear the sound of the waves at night, wake up to a perfect sunrise and enjoy nature!

Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire provides suggestions regarding fine campsites and camping spots. You can also rent all camping gear at Rainbow Beach 4×4 Hire.

Do you prefer to sleep in a hotel ? Look at this practical overview of all hotels on Fraser Island !

How to get to Fraser Island: Ferry (barge) from Rainbow Beach vs Harvey Bay

You reach Fraser by ferry from two locations on the mainland of Australia: Rainbow Beach and Harvey Bay. We recommend taking the ferry (also called barge) to Fraser Island from Rainbow Beach/Inskip Point.

The main reason is that the ferry from Inskip point is cheaper and the duration is much shorter than taking the ferry from Harvey Bay. Besides, you don’t need to book your ferry in advance if you travel from Inskip Point.

How much does it cost to go to Fraser Island?

Wondering if visiting Fraser Island in Australia is expensive? Below you will find an overview of the costs when you visit Fraser Island and hire a 4wd with camping gear for three days!

How much does it cost to visit and drive a 4wd on Fraser Island?

• 4wd rental (3 days): $600
• 4wd permit: $52.75
• Ferry from Inskip (barge): $130
• Gasoline: $185

Total cost for visiting and driving a 4×4 on Fraser: $967,75 Australian dollars. The average costs for visiting and driving on Fraser  per day : $323 (2 persons)

How much does it cost to camp on Fraser Island?

• Camping fee (3 nights): $39.90 ($6.65 per person per night)
• Camping gear: $70
• Food and drinks: $50 (i.e. cooking yourself)

The total cost of camping on Fraser Island for 4 days: $159,9. The average cost to camp per day : $39,97 (2 persons)

Curious how much our trip through Australia cost? Then read our Australia travel budget blog!

How to travel Fraser Island on a budget: 4×4 self-drive vs tour

The cost of visiting Fraser Island with a 4×4 is around $362/€200) a day. That is quite expensive. However, a two-day tour, where you explore Fraser Island by bus, cost also around $450/€250 per person!

So, with just two people, renting a 4×4 Landcruiser and doing a self-drive is already cheaper and more fun than booking a tour!

The best way to cut the cost down and get the most out of Fraser Island is by renting a 4wd with four friends! Taking into account space and comfort,  five people would be recommended the maximum for renting a Landcruiser if you have camping equipment. But you can fit up to eight people in the vehicle.

Packing list: What to bring to Fraser Island?

Some packing list tips for what to take to Fraser Island. Be sure to bring enough bug spray and covering clothes. There are a lot of mosquitoes and horseflies on Fraser Island and these can be quite annoying!

There are restaurants, shops and even a gas station on Fraser Island. However, keep in mind that everything is much more expensive than on the mainland. If you’re travelling on a budget, we recommend cooking yourself on Fraser Island!

• Bug spray/ insect repellent
• Long sleeve shirt
• Clothes that dry quickly
• Camping gear
• Shovel (to dig out the car)
• Photo camera (read here which camera we use).

Curious which hotels, hostels and accommodation we like in Australia? Then read our Australia hotels east coast blog!

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I love K'gari. We grew up in Hervey Bay so we went to the island heaps as children. I hadn't gone back for about 20 years until April when I did the Fraser Island Great Walk. Its such a special part of the world for sure.

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3 Day K’Gari 4WD Camping Tour

• Trip Styles: Budget

Your Questions (optional)

Camping on Fraser Island (K’Gari) is a truly Australian experience that you can’t afford to miss

Not certain about dates, or have a question? Ask here

Escape to the world’s largest sand island with our 3 Day Fraser Island 4WD Camping Tour from Rainbow Beach or Noosa. Discover the beauty of K’gari (Fraser Island) with this immersive and unforgettable budget camping experience.

On this tour, you’ll be transported to a world of natural wonder, where pristine white sand beaches meet crystal clear waters and lush rainforests. Explore the island’s stunning natural features, including the famous Champagne Pools, the stunning Lake McKenzie, and the towering sand dunes of Hammerstone Sandblow.

But Fraser Island is not just about the sights, it’s also about the journey. Travel in style with our 4WD vehicles, specially designed for the island’s rugged terrain. Our knowledgeable guides will take you off the beaten track to discover hidden gems and share their passion for the island’s unique flora and fauna. You can also have the opportunity to self-drive the 4WD on Fraser Island.

In the evenings, relax and unwind at our exclusive beachside campsite. Enjoy delicious meals cooked on an open fire and share stories with your fellow travelers under the stars. Fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up to stunning sunrises over the island’s pristine beaches.

This tour is perfect for backpackers 18 to 35, from adventure seekers to nature lovers. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, our 3 Day Fraser Island 4WD Camping Tour will provide you with memories to last a lifetime.A true budget camping tour on Fraser Island.

So why wait? Book your spot on this unforgettable journey to K’gari (Fraser Island) today and discover the magic of Australia’s natural beauty.

Island Expeditions K'gari Tours (Fraser Island) Self Drive & Guided Camping Tour (Ex Noosa or Rainbow)

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Our travellers often combine this trip with some of these trips:

3 Day K'Gari 4WD Camping Tour

Noosa River Everglades Cruise

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The day is finally here, the first day of your awesome Fraser Island adventure with Palace. We’ll depart from Nomads Noosa Backpackers nice & early at 6.30am. After we get your luggage into storage, you’ll be heading towards Rainbow Beach where you’ll be arriving after a 1.5-2hr drive. We stop here to collect our food and the 4WD’s and that’s it: we’re on our way to amazing Fraser Island. If departing from Rainbow beach, we will collect you from the BP Petrol station at 9am,

Before you hop on the ferry there will be an opportunity to purchase your alcohol and any snacks you wish to take.

We take the ferry from Rainbow Beach and land at Hook Point on the Southern tip of Fraser Island approximately 10 min later.

Stay overnight in your tents.

Your second day means another early start so you get to make the most of your time on the island! After breakfast (continental style breakfast – cereal, toasts, spread, tea & coffee), we continue your adventure on Fraser.

Brekkie before heading off to Fraser’s highlights. Visit Eli Creek for a swim in its fresh waters Explore the world famous Maheno Shipwreck. Lunch on the move Quick stop at ‘Pinnacles’ coloured sands. Cruise over to Indian Head Lookout & Champagne Pools. Head back to camp for the final night. Enjoy dinner with your group.

Stay overnight in the same camp site.

Today, after breakfast we continue on our travels and after lunch, it’s time to leave the island.

Last breakfast and its time to visit the fantastic Lake Mckenzie (Boorangoora). Relax and enjoy the white silica sand

A brief stop at Rainbow Beach before driving back to Nomads Noosa arriving anytime between 3.00 – 5.30pm to check back in for your Post nights and get ready for your post-tour party at KB’s bar.

An amazing end to an amazing trip! Alternatively, if you are leaving the tour in Rainbow beach we can drop you in town.

• 4×4 Safari where you can drive!
• Extra time on Fraser Island, stop at iconic locations
• Visit Lake McKenzie, Champagne Pools, Eli Creek and much more
• Swim, explore and drive on this 3 day tour
• A small backpack,
• drivers license,
• insect repellant,
• water bottle,
• toiletries,
• closed shoes,
• rain jacket,
• warm clothes/jumper (especially if camping in winter)
• and snacks.
• A small, easy to inflate floatie for your swims in the lakes (optional)
•  Beverages/alcohol and snacks to be purchased the day before departure.
• Ice can be purchased on route to the ferry
• Departs from Noosa or Rainbow Beach
• Pre/post tour accommodation available at Nomads Noosa
• Free storage is available for your bulky bags in Noosa and Rainbow Beach while on tour.
• Sleeping bag hire is included with a $20 cash deposit paid on morning or departure (fully refunded when returned)
• As it’s a genuine K’gari (Fraser Island) beach camping experience, daily swims in pristine freshwater lakes replace showers on this awesome adventure. Drinking water is provided but we recommend bringing your own too. Portable loo (toilet) provided
• For a more comfort camping experience check out our 3 Day K’Gari Self Drive Fraser Island Tour
• If you prefer no camping check out our 3-day accommodated K’Gari Tour sleeping in a guest house.

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21 Day East Coast Sydney to Cairns Tour Package

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3 Day K'Gari 4WD Camping Tour

• Description
• Essential things to pack
• Booking Info

Overlander 

• Nov 24, 2021

Fraser Island Itinerary - 5 days 4 nights (East Coast)

Updated: Nov 28, 2023

The tourist tour - all of Fraser Islands iconic locations.

There is no doubt that Fraser Island (K'gari) is one of Australia's iconic and spectacular destinations and a must do for anyone in our countries natural beauty. We have put together this short 5 day itinerary for you to see all of the Fraser Island 'majors'.

Things you need to organize before heading to Fraser.

Book your camping site/s here. https://www.qld.gov.au/camping we have recommended a few camps throughout this blog post. You can either set up camp for a few days in one location or move around the island to different spots. When booking the car we can help you with this.

Check the tides here. https://www.tideschart.com/Australia/Queensland/Fraser-Coast/ we recommend printing these charts out or writing down the tides allowing 2.5hrs either side to be off the beach.

Groceries and anything you need to take for camping purchase them before coming to collect the car so you can save time and head straight on the highway to your destination.

Tip: Make sure you're ready for driving on the beach. Check out our beach driving guide HERE to learn more before heading to Fraser.

Pick up you fully kitted 4x4 from from Overlander HQ. We will run you through everything you need to know about the car in about an hour.

Head off on your way along the M1 heading to Inskip point roughly 4 hrs drive. Catch the barge straight over to Fraser Island.

Our Vehicles: Unlike the majority of other vehicles available to rent for Fraser, our vehicles are all low kilometer, late model (2021 or newer).

Tip: allow time for traffic or barge line ups friday and Saturdays. Possibly book to stay the night at Inskip point if tides don’t align or you are running late….

The Barge departs Inskip from 6am- 5.15pm most days every 30 mins. You can grab your barge ticket from the rainbow beach petrol station and top up fuel before heading to Inskip or buy it directly on board. If you make it over to Fraser for the afternoon camp in zones 1 to 3.

Head North along beautiful Eastern Beach to they Maheno ship wreck. Washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935 the S.S. Maheno is beached near The Pinnacles and has become a landmark attraction for adventurers. It’s just one of many shipwrecks that you can explore during a trip to Fraser Island!

Rental cars are not allowed to carry Roof Top Tents on Fraser. Click HERE to find our more information.

Safety Tip: Fraser beaches are littered with 'wash outs', ruts and undulations that can't be seen until you are on top of them. Watch your speed, take your time and keep an eye out for beach obstacles at all times. Hitting one of these at speed will cause significant damage and has caused fatalities in the past.

From Maheno head further north to Champagne pools. Natural swimming pools with spectacular views on the edge of the ocean, what’s not to love? As its name suggests, waves lap over the pools and you can feel the water fizzing around you with seafoam. Grab a floatie, a pack of ciders and some tunes, and relax watching the sunset with your mates. The perfect end to a perfect day.

Stay in camping zones 6 or 7 for the night, ready for a relaxing day tomorrow at Eli Creek.

Stay set up in camp zones 6 or 7 and head to Eli Creek for a day trip. Spectacular views and an ideal spot for a picnic, Eli Creek is a must-do when you visit Fraser Island.

An enormous four million liters of sparkling freshwater pour into the ocean every hour from Eli Creek – the largest creek on the east side of Fraser Island. DON'T FORGET to pack your floats! Reverse the car to park along the flowing fresh water creek.

Tip: By reversing the car into parks if anything was to happen to the car and you needed help getting out of the situation someone would be able to recover you from the front car mounts or jump start the car easily from this position.

Head to lake McKenzie. This is the lake that makes it into all of the glossy brochures and for all of the right reasons. It is simply stunning which is the reason it’s the most famous lake on the island!

With pure white sand that feels soft as velvet beneath your feet, Lake McKenzie is a flawless spot to soak the sun and take a swim in the crystal clear waters.

The trip to the lake will be slow as the track is a little rough in places. Leave from Eurong beach and take your time to meander across the top of this beautiful island.

After a dip in Lake McKenzie, head to Lake Birrabean. Similar to Lake McKenzie, but less crowded, Lake Birrabeen is the absolute place to end your trip. Escape the craziness of the everyday by sunbathing on the white shandy shores of Lake Birrabeen and take in the glittering blue waters. You can see why it’s a photographer’s nirvana!

Camp tonight at Central Station which is fenced and has toilets and hot and cold showers (remember to bring $2 coins along to operate).

It's time to head back to the Gold Coast.

Head for Hook Point to catch the barge back over to Inskip. Put some air back into your tires once safely back on the bitumen and don't forget to treat the car to an underbody wash at Rainbow Beach.

Important information about Roof Top Tents on Fraser

Due to several bad vehicle accidents in the past QLD law prohibits Roof Top Tents on Rental Vehicles , on Fraser Island (Private vehicles are OK). In fact Rental Vehicles are not allowed to carry anything on the roof on Fraser and if they do, it is a $400+ fine for the driver. Click HERE to view the QLD legislation if you are interested.

When you rent from us to go to Fraser, we will supply you the vehicle with roof top tents removed and instead include quick set-up, quality ground tent(s) and inflatable mattresses at no extra cost. **Note this does not apply to one-way rentals, Please contact us if you are planning a one-way trip.

If you are worried about animals, our experience is that many, many visitors to Fraser sleep on the ground in swags and tents and never have a problem.

Give us a call and chat to us if you would like more information about your tent set-up for Fraser Island.

****Editors Note ****

We know that our pictures show our vehicles on Fraser with Roof-Top-Tents. These were taken by us during testing. We hope to update the photos soon :)

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Taking Your Own 4WD To K'gari (Fraser Island): What You Need To Know

Can I Take My Own 4WD To K'gari (Fraser Island)?

Yes, you can take your own 4WD to K'gari (Fraser Island)! Though guided tours are a super fun, easy, and popular way to explore the island , you can also take your own 4WD vehicle. You want to have an unforgettable experience on K'gari (Fraser Island), but not for the wrong reasons! Here are some things to consider before taking your own vehicle over to K'gari. 

Only 4WDs Are Permitted On K'gari

K'gari (Fraser Island) is well known for its amazing sand highway, 75 Mile Beach , as well as it’s soft inland sand tracks. Since there are no paved roads outside of Kingfisher and Eurong Resort, only 4WDs are permitted on the rest of the island. AWD is permitted only at Kingfisher Resort on the western side of the island (accessible ex. Hervey Bay)  but not out of the property.

So unless you plan on leaving your car at the resort and then joining a tour , you won’t get far with this vehicle type. 2WDs are not permitted . Even 4X4s that aren’t equipped properly or high enough off the ground (like Toyota Rav 4s) aren’t recommended by locals. Smaller 4WDs with poor ground clearance are also discouraged.

Driving Hazards On K'gari

Since K'gari (Fraser Island) has a naturally wild landscape , there are some hazards you may encounter while driving around . So you want to ensure you’re prepared if you’re taking your own vehicle! Some common obstacles include potholes, large patches of soft sand, deep washouts, and high tides . You are not supposed to drive on the beach two hours before or after high tide because the sand gets washed around and makes beach driving difficult and dangerous. 

It is also smart to avoid driving at night because wildlife such as dingoes can be difficult to spot until it’s too late. Also, hazards can be harder to spot at nighttime, and you wouldn’t want to get bogged in the sand after the sun goes down! For more information on safe driving tips for K'gari, click here . 

Getting the appropriate insurance coverage before driving your own vehicle to K'gari (Fraser Island) is essential. Visitors driving their own vehicle without the guidance and experience of a local may run into trouble due to the challenging driving conditions . If you don't have adequate insurance coverage, you may have to pay thousands out of pocket! Be sure to check your policy, as your insurance company may not even cover you should anything happen. Ask about specific requirements, as this is largely a grey area in most policies. Make sure you fully comprehend the terms and conditions, such as only driving on gazetted roads and what is covered with beach driving.

Insurance companies have even been known to be reluctant to offer guidelines for coverage in writing, as every claim is judged on specific circumstances. Your best bet would be to look for a dedicated 4WD insurance company. Their premiums can be much higher, but it’s better to have peace of mind when driving over to K'gari (Fraser Island) . If you’re only planning on visiting for a few days and don’t want to increase your policy, 4WD hire companies like Fraser Dingo have extensive insurance policies specific to the island’s conditions. Sometimes it can end up costing you a lot less to leave your vehicle at home and hire one or join a tour for your visit to K'gari! 

Proper Equipment

Making sure you’re fully equipped and prepared for any emergencies is crucial if you’re driving your own vehicle on the K'gari. As lowering your tyre pressure is paramount, make sure you have a tyre pressure gauge. Other items such as a recovery kit for getting your vehicle unbogged, jumper cables, and towing equipment are also important to have. Bringing a radio for use in between vehicles is also a good idea, as mobile coverage is limited on the island .

Towing Options

If you’re traveling alone and find yourself in a sticky situation, a towing company may have to assist if you get stuck in soft dry or wet sand. Towing companies have to take the barge over, so there could also be long delays while you wait for assistance, in some cases overnight. Tow trucks are hopefully a last resort, as they are extremely expensive to use should you get bogged!

Bring A Buddy

If you’re travelling to K'gari (Fraser Island) in your own vehicle it’s highly recommended you travel with another 4WD vehicle! If you get stuck somewhere remote, it's so much better to have a buddy rather than have to sort yourself out alone.  Since there are no mechanics on the island, and tow trucks can be hours away at the very minimum, you’ll be happy for some backup from your mate!

Locals and tour guides are always happy to help, however, you shouldn’t rely on this. Depending on the time of day, tour buses , service vehicles, and tag-along tours may have finished exploring. It is a very rugged and remote island so having a buddy is always safer and more fun than going alone. 

Normal Road Rules Apply

Local police often patrol K'gari (Fraser Island), so it's important to drive like you would on any other road in Australia. Speed tests as well as alcohol and drug tests regularly take place to ensure the safety of all visitors to the island. If you’re planning on having a few brewskies during your stay, you’ll want to make sure you’re parked up for the night. Seat belts and appropriate child car seats are also required as on the mainland, so buckle up! 

Permits and Barge Tickets

You’re responsible for your own permits and barge tickets if you are driving to K'gari (Fraser Island). Police and national parks regularly check vehicles for permits, and the fines for not having the appropriate permits can be hefty. Many 4WD hire companies include your permits in the cost and guided tours always include ferry transfers and permits as well. But if you're taking your own 4WD to K'gari, make sure you organize all your permits before your trip. 

Hire And Tour Options Are Your Safest Bet!

Hiring a 4WD or joining a tag-along tour will take the hassle out of your trip, as their vehicles are designed and modified specifically for the K'gari terrain. If it is your first time on the island, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your local guides have been doing this for decades. Tours always come with all the equipment you may need should you run into trouble, and you will never be alone when sorting out any issues. 

The hire options also come fully equipped, and their extensive briefing will leave you feeling confident about avoiding hazards while you traverse the island solo. Being covered by their insurance policies and having all your permits included will also take the extra burden off, so you can enjoy your K'gari (Fraser Island) adventure without any hassle. 

Ready to start planning your ultimate K'gari experience? Chat with our local travel experts or call +61 74914 2425 if you need assistance!

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