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Australia and New Zealand: Surfing & National Parks

33 Days Wellington to Cairns
Australia and New Zealand: Surfing & National Parks
Australia and New Zealand: Surfing & National Parks
Australia and New Zealand: Surfing & National Parks

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 33 Day Australia and New Zealand: Surfing & National Parks. New Zealand and Australia are the ultimate adventure combo. Dive into a month-long journey packed with thrills, led by your expert CEO. Ride the waves at Spot X in Australia, explore the stunning landscapes of Queenstown and Fiordland in New Zealand, and immerse yourself in Māori culture in Rotorua. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for koalas in Queensland! This trip is a non-stop adventure that just might be the best month of your life.
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US$4,724 per person
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Trip Length
Trip Length

33 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Wellington

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Cairns

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Trip Style

18-to-Thirtysomethings

Budget
Budget

Affordable

Age Range
Age Range

18-39 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

20

Pace
Pace

Moderate

Guide Style
Guide Style

Fully Guided

Tour Code
Tour Code

ONWA

Itinerary

Arrive at any time. Tonight, get to know your group on a night out in Wellington. Choose to head to your CEO’s favourite local spot for dinner together before enjoying a social evening of bar games, music, and singing. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. Check out New Zealand's National Museum, a must-see with great displays of historical Maori artifacts and relatively modern exhibits such as the motorbike that was built in a shed and won the world championships. Afterwards, opt for a night out on the town. Wellington has an abundance of nightlife, bars, cafes and restaurants all located on and around the entertainment district of Courtenay Place.
Accommodation: Cambridge Hotel
Included Experiences
  • Connect With New Friends: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
  • Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Experiences
  • Te Papa Museum Visit: Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building.
  • Weta Workshop Visit: Step into the behind-the-scenes world of hobbits, dragons and other fantastical movie creatures. The Weta Workshop is where the props and models for films like The Lord of the Rings, Avatar and the Amazing Spiderman 2 are designed and brought to life. Watch artists working on new pieces and see some of their award-winning creations from past projects in their new exhibition space.

Don't forget those cameras before hopping on the morning ferry to cross the Cook Strait. Pro tip: make sure you stand outside and marvel at the views of the Marlborough Sounds at the tip of the South Island. Then drive past lush native forests, beautiful clear waters, blue skies, and golden sands as the group travels to Abel Tasman National Park. Catch a morning ferry and cross the scenic Cook Strait. Make sure to stand outside and enjoy the views of the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island. Disembark and transfer to Abel Tasman National Park, well-known for its stunning white sand beaches.
Accommodation: The Barn Cabins & Camp
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Picture this: birdsong ringing from the treetops as you wander through the undergrowth stumbling upon occasional waterfalls nestled in the midst of the forest. You take a dip in one of the refreshing pools before finding your way to pristine coastline and turquoise bays where you can soak up the sun and relax in the sand. This is the kind of day that awaits you in Abel Tasman NP, you are free to explore the golden beaches and winding waterways any way you’d like! So have fun, build a sand castle for us, and let the adventures continue!
Accommodation: The Barn Cabins & Camp
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Abel Tasman National Park Walk: Catch an Aqua Taxi from your accommodation in Marahau up to Anchorage. Walk back to Marahau at your own pace, and make stops along the way at some of the world's most scenic golden sand beaches to relax in the sun.
Optional Experiences
  • Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking/Hike: Explore the coastline and beaches in stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Kayak from Watering Cove along the coastline to Marahau.
  • Canyoning: Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float down the Torrent River on this canyoning adventure. Make your way down stream and see the stunning rainforest scenery on this active adventure that will bring you into the heart of Abel Tasman National Park. Please note this activity is only operational October-April.
  • Sailing: Sail through crystal clear waters, admire spectacular scenery and investigate secluded cloves, small islands, golden beaches and lush forest. Don't forget to wear a hat and sunscreen!

It’s off to Westport today! Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the beautiful views as the group heads south down the coast of black-sand beaches. Make a (very cool) pit stop to a seal colony in Cape Foulwind and watch these majestic animals in their habitat before continuing on to Westport for the evening. Once you arrive grab a beer, talk to some locals, and discover the true charm of this coal mining town.
Accommodation: Bazil's Hostel & Surf School
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Seal Colony Visit: Stop by a viewing platform over a New Zealand fur seal colony at Cape Foulwind. Female seals will live in the same colony for the duration of their lives, whereas male seals move around more. The males visit the Cape Foulwind colony between late November and mid-January for mating season. All seasons offer plenty of activity to check out, from mating to the raising of baby pups and feeding out at sea.
Optional Experiences
  • Surfing in Westport: Hit the beach and get ready to hang ten while you catch some waves. Spend some time in the water getting friendly with the waves, practice paddling, then pop up to balance on the wider, softer beginner boards.

Continue on a scenic drive south along the coast to Punakaiki; think pancake rocks and blowholes (man, those are two random things we never thought would be in the same sentence). As a special spot full of local secrets, Punakaiki is a great place to hop out of the bus, stretch those legs, and appreciate the strange beauty nature can create. Continue following the coastal road towards Franz Josef arriving at a unique wilderness lodge set in the rainforest for the night.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Pancake Rocks Trek: Walk along a loop trail with informative signs detailing how the 'Pancake Rocks' were formed millions of years ago. When the trail reaches the coast, there are many lookouts for photo stops and beautiful views of the coast, the rocks and the blowholes found along the area.
  • Free Time: With tons of optional activities available around Franz Josef, get out there and explore!

Enjoy a free day in Franz Josef. Today is all yours to spend as you please! From hiking to kayaking and walking on a glacier, there’s bound to be something you’ll want to check off that bucket list. If your goal is to make actual contact with the glacier then try a heli-hike or guided ice walk. Or you could let nature be your guide and lose yourself in the rainforests, lakes, and waterfalls that surround Franz Josef. If you’d rather stay in town, then grab a bite to eat before booking a spa treatment at the Glacier Hot Pools... the choice is yours!
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy a free day to explore the beautiful Franz Josef area.
Optional Experiences
  • Franz Josef Kayaking: Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views. (149-169 NZD per person)
  • Heli Scenic Flight with Snow Landing: Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out on the snow to soak up the experience, before flying back to land. Cool! (385-655 NZD per person)
  • Hiking : Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.

Hit the road to the adventure capital of the world — Queenstown. Sit back, relax and gaze out the window as you drive away from Glacier Country and wind through lush forests back to the coast and into the mountains over Haast Pass. The photo opportunities will seem endless (make sure those cameras are charged.) Then gear up and get ready because the adrenaline is going to be pumping the next few days.
Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown Hostel
Included Meals: Breakfast

Let’s put it this way, if you’re the sort of person that loves adventure mixed with adrenaline all while exploring one of the most scenic places in the country, then Queenstown is for you! Gear up for a free day that is sure to leave you breathless. Opt to be a dare devil and get ready to have those hearts pumping with some adrenaline-filled options like jet boating, bungee jumping, or skydiving.
Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown Hostel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Do as much or as little as wanted during a free day to explore the area.
Optional Experiences
  • Vineyard Tour: Visit vineyards in New Zealand's fastest growing wine region. Taste some of Queenstown's finest Pinot Noir, as well as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc and learn more about the grape varietals that flourish here. Pick up a few bottles to savour back home. (189-265 NZD per person)
  • Gondola Ride: Take a ride up to the top of the mountain by cable car gondola. Get a spectacular 220º view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below. (66-215 NZD per person)
  • Shotover Canyon Swing: The ultimate in adrenaline activities, this is the world’s highest cliff jump! Jump off a cliff and swing into a canyon on the 109m high Canyon Swing. This is sure to get your heart pumping! (295-590 NZD per person)
  • Skydiving: Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like! (449-549 NZD per person)
  • Queenstown Jet Boating: Jet boating is a typical New Zealand activity— go as fast you can in a boat over water. Hang on tight as you fly across the surface of the water. Shoot through narrow rocky gorges and dare to watch as the driver takes hairpin turns frighteningly close to the cliffs.
  • Bungee Jumping: Adrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort of solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss. (320-805 NZD per person)

Let your breathing return to normal today as the group heads out for a visit to Fiordland National Park. After arriving, soak up the chill vibes on a boat cruise through one of the most iconic places in New Zealand — Milford Sound. Marvel at the views of one of the wettest places on Earth before we make our way back to Queenstown for the night.
Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown Hostel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Milford Sound Cruise: Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound from the deck of a boat. Recharge your camera and be ready to shoot stunning photos of waterfalls, mountains stretching up to the sky and down to the sea and then search for dolphins and seals. This place is any artist's dream!

Gear up for round two of free time in Queenstown that is sure to leave you breathless. Choose to be a dare devil and get ready to have those hearts pumping with some adrenaline-filled options like jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking or skydiving or simply take in the breathtaking scenery and vibrant atmosphere as you find restaurants to try and cafes to wind down and relax.
Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown Hostel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Do as much or as little as wanted during a free day to explore the area. Queenstown is the perfect place to venture out of those comfort zones as you take part in adrenaline pumping activities.
Optional Experiences
  • Gondola Ride: Take a ride up to the top of the mountain by cable car gondola. Get a spectacular 220º view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below. (66-215 NZD per person)
  • Vineyard Tour: Visit vineyards in New Zealand's fastest growing wine region. Taste some of Queenstown's finest Pinot Noir, as well as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc and learn more about the grape varietals that flourish here. Pick up a few bottles to savour back home. (189-265 NZD per person)
  • Bungee Jumping: Adrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort of solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss. (320-805 NZD per person)
  • Shotover Canyon Swing: The ultimate in adrenaline activities, this is the world’s highest cliff jump! Jump off a cliff and swing into a canyon on the 109m high Canyon Swing. This is sure to get your heart pumping! (295-590 NZD per person)
  • Skydiving: Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like! (449-549 NZD per person)
  • Queenstown Jet Boating: Jet boating is a typical New Zealand activity— go as fast you can in a boat over water. Hang on tight as you fly across the surface of the water. Shoot through narrow rocky gorges and dare to watch as the driver takes hairpin turns frighteningly close to the cliffs.

Depart Queenstown and travel to Aoraki/Mt Cook National park. Once in the park enjoy free time for hiking and visiting the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre. Afterwards, travel to Lake Tekapo where we will be staying for the next two nights.
Accommodation: Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy free time in the area to go for a hike in the beautiful scenery or to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre.

Start the day with a relaxing 21km bike ride along the canals with stunning mountain views. Spend the rest of the day exploring Tekapo on your own. Opt to visit the hot springs, relax on the shores of Lake Tekapo, or hike to the Mt John Observatory and check out the incredible Dark Sky Reserve.
Accommodation: Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Lake Tekapo Bike Ride: Set out on a 21km ride in Lake Tekapo. Pedal along a flat, quiet, sealed country back road pass by the canals, and soak in the grand mountain views while getting a bit of exercise.
  • Free Time: Spend time exploring Tekapo today. Opt to visit some hot springs, relax around Lake Tekapo, or hike to the Mt John Observatory and check out the incredible Dark Sky Reserve.
Optional Experiences
  • Dark Sky Project - The Crater Experience: Join an unforgettable stargazing adventure with the Crater Experience in Lake Takapō (Tekapo). Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before. (129-219 NZD per person)
  • Tekapo Hot Springs: Tekapo Hot Springs are located in beautiful Lake Tekapo, which happens to be in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Soak in the warm waters at the base of Mount John and take in views of iconic Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges beyond. (40-189 NZD per person)

Scoot on up to Christchurch to explore the South Island’s largest city and one of the places in New Zealand with the strongest English influences. Enjoy free time to explore and see what the nightlife is all about with your travel tribe, and grab some shut eye in a converted jailhouse to finish the evening.
Accommodation: Drifter Christchurch Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Spend the afternoon exploring Christchurch during free time.

Mountains, marine life, and magic! Kaikoura is pretty darn special, so special in fact, that it may be the South Island’s best kept secret. The best way to experience it is to get out there and witness what this rugged coastal town does best. Book a whale watching cruise, swim with dolphins, or just take a walk along the coast admiring the scenery. In the afternoon try bird watching, swim with dolphins or splurge on flight over the peninsula. Spend the afternoon swimming with dolphins or taking a scenic flight over the peninsula. Bird watchers will be pleased to know that big ocean birds such as albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters frequent the area.
Accommodation: Dusky Lodge
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Head out and explore this beautiful area. View some of the wildlife in the area or hit the trails to get a workout with a view.
Optional Experiences
  • Hiking: Set off along the hiking trail to take in the beautiful scenery along the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway.
  • Whale Watching: Follow in the path of Paikea, the Maori "whale rider", and set out in search of Giant Sperm Whales as they spray and dive their way through the waters off Kaikoura.
  • Scenic Flight: Take a 30-minute flight and set off to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. On land, you'll see Maori sites, Kaikoura town and New Zealand's southern fur seals.
  • Dolphin Tour: Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. If we come upon them, depending on conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.

Reminisce and reflect on your time in New Zealand as you and the group travel to Picton to catch a ferry back to Wellington. Watch the majestic scenery of this country unfold before you and simply appreciate the moment (we know you’re probably already making plans to return.) Once back in the city grab some grub with your travel crew and let the good times roll for one last night out in New Zealand together.
Accommodation: Cambridge Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
  • Big Night Out: Immerse yourself in the nightlife of Wellington on this night out with the group. Put those competitive hats on and play games at Blend Bar (may the best person win) and then put those dancing shoes to good use as you shimmy and shake the night away with your adventure buddies by your side. There’s no one cooler than this travel crew right here!

Today we say goodbye to New Zealand and fly to Australia. Departing out of Wellington, we'll touch down in Sydney after about 4 hours in the air. Enjoy an evening at leisure in Australia's biggest city. A great way to start your time in the city is to head down to the harbour's edge to 'The Rocks' historic area.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Sydney
Included Experiences
  • Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
  • Free Time: Enjoy free time down unda'!
Optional Experiences
  • The Rocks Neighbourhood Visit: Set out and explore this historic colonial neighbourhood in the city centre. Bordered by the Sydney Harbour on one side, it is home to vibrant cafés and pubs, cobbled alleyways, and charming shops. Snap some shots of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, and get a feel for cosmopolitan Sydney.

Join your CEO as you climb aboard the local ferry and travel from Sydney to Manly Beach. Manly is one of Australia's most famous beaches, which is quite the praise for a giant island nation. With world class surfing, beautiful water and lined with pine trees, you'll quickly learn why its so popular amongst locals and travelers alike. Take a surf class, relax on the beach or hit one of the many shops or restaurants in the town.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Sydney
Included Experiences
  • Ferry to Manly Beach: Board the ferry and travel from Sydney to the famed Manly beach, just a little over an hour north of the city.

There is so much to do in Sydney. Even though just a few free days aren't enough to see it all, it's still worth it! Opt to visit the Sydney Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, check out some of the famed museums or eat at some incredible restaurants.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Sydney
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Sydney is Australia's biggest city, which means your options today are endless! Enjoy your free day!
Optional Experiences
  • Sydney Opera House Visit: Stroll along the waterfront to admire Sydney's most iconic landmark, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened by Queen Elizabeth 11 in 1973. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site to discover its history, folklore, and more. Some two million people a year come to see concerts and cultural performances Opera House. Catch the boom of the grand organ–with more than 10,000 pipes, it took 10 years to build and is the largest mechanical organ in the world. (50-199 AUD per person)
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb one of the most famous bridges in the world – the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Soak in amazing panoramic city views of Sydney at the top – a perfect photo opp and memory to take home with you!

Enjoy one last day in Sydney! Make sure to tick off those last few must do's in this amazing city. If you need ideas for today, make sure to ask your CEO, as there is always something to do here.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Sydney
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy one last free day in Sydney.

It's all aboard today as you take the train north to Coffs Harbour. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. After pulling into Coffs Harbour station, the group will travel to Spot X Surf Camp, our base for the next few days.
Accommodation: Spot X Surf Camp
Included Meals: Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Train: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the train views as you head north.

As the sun rises along the ocean hit the beach for an included surf lesson with Spot X. Located in one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country they are completely devoted to the surf lifestyle. Spend some time in the sun and laughing in the waves with your travel tribe before heading out on a kangaroo trek. Then it’s time for a free afternoon to enjoy your surroundings. Soak up views of Solitary Islands Marine Park, embark on a rockpool scramble to look for fish traps and sea creatures, or wander over to Mullawarra beach for a picnic. Your only real job today is to have fun!
Accommodation: Spot X Surf Camp
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Head out for a swim or simply chill on the beach. The afternoon is yours!
  • Kangaroo Trek: Observe kangaroos (and their joeys) in their natural habitat during an hour-long trek through the coastal bushland around Arrawarra. Along the way, pass Indigenous midden sites with fossilized shells. Don't forget your camera!
  • Surfing Lesson: Take to the waves with an included surf lesson at the secret Spot X. Learn to paddle, stand, and ride a wave into shore! With top-notch instructors in the water, get ready to ride the swells like a local in no time.
Optional Experiences
  • Swimming: Grab your bathing suit and go for a refreshing swim.

Adventure through lush national parks, stunning beaches, rolling green hills, and small but vibrant towns full of charm and authentic Australian culture as the group drives from Arrawarra to Byron Bay. Grab lunch in the surf and arts town of Byron Bay, before walking to Cape Byron Lighthouse to see the easternmost point in the country. If luck is on your side you may glimpse migrating whales and pods of resident dolphins. Travel the coastal road to the stunning surf and arts town of Byron Bay. Enjoy plenty of free time to experience the hippie surfing town.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Byron Bay
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse Visit: Cape Byron Lighthouse is 3km (1.9 mi) northeast of Byron Bay. The popular white structure emits the most powerful light of all working lighthouses in the country, and it's also located at the most easterly point of the Australian continent. Head up to the top of the tower to scan the ocean for whales (the Southern Cross University's Whale Research Centre is located here).

Welcome to Byron Bay… the city of surfing and sunbathing! The day is yours to explore; walk along hidden beaches, play in the surf, grab a massage. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Go skydiving, try sea kayaking, or go on a dolphin watch.
Accommodation: Wake Up! Byron Bay
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: There's plenty to see and do in Byron Bay, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like sea kayaking and skydiving. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Experiences
  • Skydiving: Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Byron Bay from an eagle's perspective this morning. Suit up, get briefed, and board the prop plane to soar high about the land and sea. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath, and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!
  • Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking: Slice through the waters of the iconic Byron Bay in the morning on this half-day kayaking adventure. Paddle past the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, see the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, and ride the waves into shore. On top of it all, keep a close eye for dolphins and whales (in season) who call these waters home. Epic? Definitely. This activity is in the ocean and conditions can sometimes be rough due to weather. This is a very fun activity but first time kayakers may find this challenging.

Travel from Byron Bay to another seaside city in Australia, Brisbane! Today you have the whole day to explore this awesome city. Opt to visit the City Botanic Gardens, hike mount Coot-Tha or hit up some of the many amazing bars and restaurants. In the evening, we recommend exploring Eat Street Northshore night market, or grab a beer under the lit up Story Bridge in Fortitude Valley.
Accommodation: BUNK Brisbane
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy a free day in one of Australia's most fun cities, Brisbane!

An early rise today starts your journey to K'gari (Fraser Island) World Heritage Area. Upon arrival to the largest sand island in the world, you will go through a traditional welcome by the Butchulla people, setting the tone for what's to come. After the welcome ceremony, get straight into the 4WD adventure. Swim in Boorangoora (Lake Mckenzie), hike beneath the amazing rainforest and walk along the beach during sunset (seasonal). At night, sit around the campfire with your new found friends. This unique stay on K'gari is hosted by the Traditional Owners of the land who are keen to share their experiences with you and welcome you. This is an incredibly unique experience and a thrilling opportunity to gain insight into Australia's Indigenous culture-both past and present.
Accommodation: The Eco Retreat
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Welcome to Country Ceremony: Welcome to Paradise and the traditional homeland of the Butchulla people. Start your time on the island with a special welcome ceremony by K'gari's Traditional Owners. K'gari is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site, known for its natural beauty and ongoing geomorphological processes.
  • K'gari Inland Experience: Hop into an off roading, 4x4 vehicle and explore K'gari from the inside out. Check out inland highlights like Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) and Central Station. Boorangoora is a gorgeous, crystal lake filled solely by rain water. Visit Central Station and enjoy the island's ancient sub-tropical rainforest while learning some of the islands more modern history.
  • Stories around the campfire: Join your group around the campfire and look up at the stars.

Today you'll drive along 75 Mile Beach, see the Maheno shipwreck and swim in the crystal clear Eli Creek that pumps millions of litres of spring-fed fresh water into the ocean every hour. In the afternoon, say goodbye to K'gari and head to your next beachy destination, Noosa.
Accommodation: Bounce Noosa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • K'gari Beach Tour: Climb into a 4x4 vehicle for a full day tour of K'gari Island. See the Maheno shipwreck, drive along 75 Mile Beach, and see the towering coloured sand dunes at the Pinnacles. Grab a swim at Eli Creek, the largest freshwater creek on the island.

Picture rocky coast against perfect turquoise water. Now head out with your CEO and see it first hand. Catch the ferry and start your easy hike in Noosa National Park along the waterways to end up at the secluded beach, Hell's Gate. While it sounds intimidating, it is well worth it, and really quite spectacular. Keep your eye out for koalas along the hike too. Enjoy the afternoon free in Noosa. Opt to get lunch on Hastings Street and enjoy some relaxing beach time or rent a surfboard. Then take the ferry back before dinner.
Accommodation: Bounce Noosa
Included Experiences
  • Noosa Coastal Walk: Hike as a group along the shoreline between the Noosa Headlands and Hell's Gate, passing by gorgeous scenery along the way. Peer into the trees and try to spot koalas in their natural habitat and visit spots like Boiling Point, Dolphin Point, and Hell's Gates.
  • Free Time: Enjoy a free day in Noosa by taking in the shops along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, having a coffee on the beach, or a surf in the Ocean.

Enjoy a free day in cute beachfront town of Noosa! Do some shopping along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, have a coffee on the beach, or go for a surf. Many consider Noosa to be the best place for surfing in all of Australia. You can also choose to spend time back at the hostel or participate in some of the optional activities offered in the area. In the afternoon, we'll pack our bags and head to the train station. Tonight we sleep on an overnight train as we head north to some of the most beautiful parts of the country. Fall asleep in Noosa and wake up by the Whitsundays!
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy a free day in Noosa by taking in the shops along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, having a coffee on the beach, or a surf in the Ocean. You can also choose to spend time back at the hostel or participate in some of the optional activities offered in the area.
  • Overnight Train (seats): Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Optional Experiences
  • Noosa Everglades Kayak Adventure: Join a guided day's paddle into the Noosa Everglades and Upper Noosa River, enjoy a delicious hearty lunch, take a refreshing dip in the river and be inspired by this remote wilderness experience.
  • Eumundi Market: Jump on public transport and head to the Eumundi Market. Renowned for its locally made artisan treasures there’s no other market quite like it. The Original Eumundi Markets is the biggest and the best artisan market in Australia.

Hop off the train and board a bus for a short ride to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier reef. After dropping your bags, do your thing in Airlie Beach. Relax on a gorgeous beach, take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef or get some shopping in on the town. Airlie Beach is your oyster.
Accommodation: Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy free time in Airlie Beach. Opt to relax by the lagoon, take a scenic flight of cruise on a jetski.

Get ready for an amazing day at sea! Today, we'll climb aboard an ocean raft and zoom around the wispy turquoise waters. With time to snorkel, go on bushwalks, and chill on the beach, today will be as close to perfect as one can get.
Accommodation: Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel
Included Meals: Lunch
Included Experiences
  • Whitsunday Islands Boating Excursion: Enjoy a day out on the water amidst some of the 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsunday archipelago. Visit Whitehaven Beach, jump overboard for a quick refreshing dip, and make friends with the tropical fish that thrive within Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
Optional Experiences
  • Whitsunday Islands Snorkelling : Take advantage of the included snorkel gear, throw on a mask and see what lives in the Great Barrier Reef. (Note that fins are not provided in order to adhere with local coral conservation efforts.)

With an early morning departure, we take a relaxing rail journey through sugar-cane fields, and coastal countryside, the perfect way to unwind and watch Queensland roll by.
Accommodation: Cairns Central YHA
Included Experiences
  • Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Cairns is quite the place to visit if you love warm weather (it would be headline news for the city’s temperature to drop much below 20°C (68°F)) and want to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Take advantage of a free day to book one of the many optional activities that will get you out in nature’s playground. Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, get that adrenaline pumping by whitewater rafting or skydiving and cap it all off on a Big Night Out in Cairns with your fellow travellers. Drinks all around are well deserved after spending the day escaping your comfort zones.
Accommodation: Cairns Central YHA
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Get out and explore Cairns and beyond.
  • Big Night Out: Release your inner break dancer and go wild tonight in Cairns with your G travel family. Get ready to bust a move and have the time of your life. Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a dance off, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
Optional Experiences
  • Skydiving: Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Cairns from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high above the land and sea. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like! (310-400 AUD per person)
  • Whitewater Rafting: Put on a helmet, grab a paddle and raft the Class 3 & 4 rapids of the mighty Tully River, considered the best rafting river in all Australia & New Zealand. (138-210 AUD per person)
  • Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling from Cairns: Don a mask and snorkel the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. Say g'day to Nemo, the clown fish, and some of the 1,500 other species of tropical fish that thrive in the warm waters off Australia's east coast. Depending on availability of Dive Instructors, an upgrade to SCUBA diving may be possible but is by no means guaranteed. Please speak to your CEO to see if this is available.

Depart at any time.

Trip Inclusions

  • Experience the beauty of the South Island in Abel Tasman and Queenstown.
  • Learn to Surf in Byron Bar. Explore K'gari Island and the Whitsundays by boat.

  • Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
  • Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
  • Your Discover Moment: Franz Josef
  • Your Discover Moment: Queenstown
  • Your Big Night Out Moment: Wellington
  • Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson, Spot X
  • Your Discover Moment: Byron Bay
  • Your Discover Moment: Cairns
  • Your Big Night Out Moment: Cairns
  • Boat excursion to Abel Tasman National Park
  • Walk in Abel Tasman National Park
  • Seal colony visit
  • Pancake Rocks
  • Lake Matheson walk
  • Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
  • Milford Sound day cruise
  • Lake Tekapo Bike Ride
  • Ferry to Manly
  • Sydney Orientation walk
  • Kangaroo trek
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse Visit
  • Daisy Hill Koala Centre
  • K'gari Welcome Ceremony
  • 4x4 Adventure on K'gari
  • K'gari overnight experience (incl Twilight Beach Walk & Stories around the campfire)
  • Noosa Coastal Walk
  • Whitsunday full day excursion (incl snorkelling)
  • Whitehaven Beach visit
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Private vehicle, train, boat, ferry, train, overnight train, 4x4 vehicle, walking
  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides

  • Hostels & Basic Lodges (32 Nights, Multi-share With 4-8 People)
  • Overnight Train (1nt), Remote Beach Accommodation (1nt)
  • **All Nights Are Multi-share On This Trip
  • Multi-share accommodation is a popular style of travel in New Zealand and Australia, and it’s how you’ll spend most of your nights on this trip. This typically means sharing a room with 4–8 fellow travellers. Rooms are generally split by gender, and most will have shared bathroom facilities.
  • When staying in multi-share accommodation, we’re unable to take any rooming requests.
  • Accommodation will vary throughout your journey — some stops may not provide towels or soap, so we recommend bringing your own. Bathroom and shower facilities are shared and are rarely en-suite.
  • If you prefer private accommodation, you may want to explore our tours in the Classic Travel Style.

  • 18 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.

Operator

G Adventures
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.

On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
Trip Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Built for young travelers ready to break free from the everyday grind, these trips bring together a safe and supportive group of like-minded people in their twenties and early thirties.

Connect on the First Night Out, explore with a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), enjoy free time, and celebrate unforgettable moments with new friends - without breaking the bank. Travel confidently, respectfully, and affordably.

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Dates & Pricing USD USD

Thursday 14 May 2026 14 May 26 Wellington
Monday 15 Jun 2026 15 Jun 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$6,899
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Thursday 28 May 2026 28 May 26 Wellington
Monday 29 Jun 2026 29 Jun 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,899
US$5,174
Save $1,725
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 11 Jun 2026 11 Jun 26 Wellington
Monday 13 Jul 2026 13 Jul 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,299
US$4,724
Save $1,575
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 25 Jun 2026 25 Jun 26 Wellington
Monday 27 Jul 2026 27 Jul 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$6,299
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Thursday 09 Jul 2026 09 Jul 26 Wellington
Monday 10 Aug 2026 10 Aug 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,299
US$5,354
Save $945
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 23 Jul 2026 23 Jul 26 Wellington
Monday 24 Aug 2026 24 Aug 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,299
US$5,354
Save $945
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 06 Aug 2026 06 Aug 26 Wellington
Monday 07 Sep 2026 07 Sep 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,299
US$5,354
Save $945
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 20 Aug 2026 20 Aug 26 Wellington
Monday 21 Sep 2026 21 Sep 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,299
US$5,354
Save $945
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 03 Sep 2026 03 Sep 26 Wellington
Monday 05 Oct 2026 05 Oct 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,899
US$5,864
Save $1,035
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 17 Sep 2026 17 Sep 26 Wellington
Monday 19 Oct 2026 19 Oct 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$6,899
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Thursday 24 Sep 2026 24 Sep 26 Wellington
Monday 26 Oct 2026 26 Oct 26 Cairns
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$6,899
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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