Our journeys

Five private expeditions through the landscapes of South East Queensland and Northern NSW

Caldera Sunrise Expedition

Ancient volcanic landscapes, rainforest gorges and a pre-dawn caldera ascent. Beginning in Byron Bay or the Gold Coast, this five-day private journey explores the Border Ranges, Nightcap National Park and the Wollumbin caldera.

5 Days · From $5,599 per person · Min 2 Guests

At a Glance

  • 5 Days · 4 Nights

  • 2 to 8 guests maximum

  • Fully private and guided

  • Byron Bay or Gold Coast pickup

  • All meals included

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival & Hinterland Retreat Private pickup from Byron Bay or Gold Coast. Transfer to your secluded hinterland retreat. Meet your guide, settle in and enjoy a hosted welcome dinner under the canopy.

Day 2 — Remote Ranges Late start with a hearty breakfast. Explore remote lookouts in Border Ranges National Park — Blackbutt Lookout and The Pinnacle offer rare, sweeping caldera views. Premium dinner at leisure.

Day 3 — Waterfalls & Rainforest Full day in Nightcap National Park. Guided walks through ancient subtropical rainforest, ending at the spectacular Minyon Falls. Return for an evening of rest and fine dining.

Day 4 — Caldera Sunrise Ascent Pre-dawn departure for a guided ascent within Wollumbin National Park caldera. Sunrise over the ancient volcanic landscape. Afternoon recovery, optional in-room massage, and relaxed dinner.

Day 5 — Departure Leisurely breakfast before private transfers return you to Byron Bay or the Gold Coast.

    • Private return transfers from Byron Bay & Gold Coast

    • 4 nights boutique hinterland accommodation

    • 3 days hiking with experienced, licensed guides

    • All meals — breakfast, lunch, dinner and trail snacks

    • Tea, coffee and beverages throughout

    • All national park entry fees and permits

    • Pre-dawn caldera ascent with head torches provided

    • In-room massage therapy

  • The Caldera Sunrise Expedition is designed for:

    • Couples looking for a meaningful escape that goes beyond the standard weekend away — somewhere that feels genuinely remote without sacrificing comfort

    • Families wanting a shared adventure that gets everyone off screens and into something they'll talk about for years

    • Small corporate groups looking to reconnect, reset and reward their team somewhere extraordinary — away from conference rooms and agendas

    • Friends or small groups who want to share something memorable in one of Australia's most beautiful corners

    • Anyone who has always wanted to see Wollumbin at sunrise but didn't want to do it alone or unprepared

    • Enjoy walking in nature but don't need to push physical limits

    • Appreciate good food and a comfortable bed after a day outdoors

    • Want to feel genuinely away — no crowds, no itinerary pressure, no compromises

    • You're looking for high-intensity adventure or technical climbing

    • You prefer resort-style amenities and spa facilities

    • You need to stay connected to work throughout

    • Fitness level: Moderate. Daily walks of 2–5km on formed trails, plus one steeper pre-dawn ascent on Day 4.

    • Best time to travel: April to October — cooler temperatures and clearer caldera views at sunrise.

    • What to bring: Warm layers for the pre-dawn ascent, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera for the sunrise.

    • Accommodation: Boutique hinterland retreat, twin or double share.

Pricing

2–3 Guests (Intimate private group) $6,999 per person.

4–8 Guests (Larger private group) $5,599 per person.

All prices are per person, fully inclusive as outlined above.

Enquire about this journey
Three people standing on a wooden viewing platform in a dense green forest, looking at the trees and foliage.
A lively outdoor gathering during the evening on a wooden deck attached to a red house, lit by warm string lights and wall sconces, with people socializing and a garden with flowers in the foreground.
An elderly couple standing on a wooden viewing platform overlooking a lush green valley and mountain range under a blue sky with clouds.
A scenic view of lush green mountains and valley, with a clear blue sky overhead.
A couple with backpacks standing on a viewing platform overlooking mountains and clouds during sunrise or sunset.
Aerial view of a waterfall flowing down a rocky cliff surrounded by green trees, with a curved viewing platform and benches on a walkway overlooking the waterfall.
A cozy bedroom with a bed, black pillows, striped bedding, and wooden window frames, with greenery visible outside the windows.
Two hikers standing on a wooden lookout point overlooking a mountain range, with lush green trees and the sun setting in the background.
A topographic map showing a travel route through national parks and towns, with a blue path marked by points labeled G to D and F, and various mountain features and landmarks such as Mount Jerusalem, Mount Bureen, and Namk.

Caldera Sunrise expedition map

A,E,G - Jerrapark hideaway retreat

B - Blackbutt lookout

C - Pinnacle lookout

D - Brindle creek walking trail

F - Minyon falls walking trail

H - Wollumbin (Mount Warning National Park)

Caldera Sunrise Expedition — Packing List

    • Lightweight hiking pants or shorts (2-3 pairs)

    • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (3-4)

    • Long sleeve layer for evenings and early mornings

    • Warm fleece or jacket — essential for the pre-dawn Day 4 ascent

    • Rain jacket or packable windbreaker

    • Comfortable casual clothes for evenings at the retreat

    • Underwear and hiking socks (enough for 5 days)

    • Broken-in walking shoes or hiking boots — not new ones

    • Thongs or sandals for evenings at the retreat

    • Sun hat and sunglasses

    • Daypack or small backpack for hiking days

    • Reusable water bottle — minimum 1.5 litres

    • Headtorch or small torch — essential for Day 4 pre-dawn start

    • Trekking poles (optional but useful on descents)

    • Sunscreen SPF 50+

    • Insect repellent

    • Personal medications

    • Small personal first aid items — blister patches, pain relief

    • Hand sanitiser

    • Biodegradable soap if you prefer your own

    • Photo ID

    • Travel insurance details

    • Emergency contact information

    • Any dietary requirement notes for your guide

    • Phone and charger

    • Camera — the landscapes deserve it

    • Portable battery pack

    • Large suitcases — a medium bag or soft duffel is ideal

    • Excessive valuables — you're in the bush, keep it simple

    • High heels or dress shoes — you won't need them

Enquire or Explore our other journeys

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