Day 1
Auckland
After arrival, the day is yours to explore the city. Consider visiting the Maritime Museum, taking a ferry ride to Waiheke Island, or sailing around Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour on a competitive yacht. In the evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travellers, learning more about the adventure ahead - you may opt to join the group for dinner afterwards.
Optional experiences: Maritime Museum visit, Waiheke Island excursion and Auckland sailing: America's cup experience.
Day 2
Auckland to Raglan
The adventure begins with a scenic drive to Bridal Veil Falls, where you’ll walk through native bush to this breathtaking waterfall. Then, travel to the surf town of Raglan for some sea kayaking. Your accommodation is located in the heart of the surf and arts community, where you'll stay for the next two nights.
Overnight: Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge or similar (breakfast included).
Day 3
Raglan
Spend the day in the world-renowned surf town of Raglan. Enjoy an included surf lesson, then take some free time to explore or relax in the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Overnight: Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge or similar (breakfast and dinner included).
Day 4
Raglan to Rotorua
On the way to Rotorua, stop at Waitomo, where you can opt to visit the famous Waitomo Caves, seeing glowworms illuminating the cave ceilings. In Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity, spend the evening at Te Puia Village for a cultural experience in a thermal valley.
Overnight: Rock Solid Backpackers Rotorua or similar (breakfast included).
Optional experiences: Waitomo Valley walk or Waitomo Cave excursion.
Day 5
Rotorua to Taupo
Spend the morning exploring Rotorua's geothermal wonders, perhaps taking a canopy tour or relaxing in the hot springs. In the afternoon, head to Taupo, stopping to visit the stunning Huka Falls. Upon arrival, take a relaxing afternoon sail on New Zealand’s largest lake.
Overnight: Based by the Lake or similar (breakfast included).
Optional experiences: Rotorua Canopy tour, Hot springs.
Day 6
Taupo to Wellington
Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, and opt to visit Te Papa Museum, home to historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. Enjoy some free time, perhaps taking a cable car ride for panoramic views or strolling along the Oriental Parade.
Overnight: Cambridge Hotel or similar (breakfast included).
Optional experiences: Te Papa Museum visit.
Day 7
Wellington to Sydney
Fly to Sydney, Australia. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely evening in Australia's largest city. You may choose to explore 'The Rocks,' a historic area by the harbour.
Overnight: Wake Up! Sydney or similar.
Optional experiences: The Rocks Neighbourhood visit.
Day 8
Sydney
Today, take the local ferry from Sydney to the famous Manly Beach. With world-class surfing, clear waters, and pine tree-lined shores, it’s easy to see why it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Take a surf lesson, relax, or explore the shops and restaurants.
Overnight: Wake Up! Sydney or similar.
Day 9
Sydney
Take a free day to explore all that Sydney has to offer. Choose to visit the Sydney Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or discover some of the city's renowned museums.
Overnight: Wake Up! Sydney or similar.
Optional experiences: Sydney Opera House visit, Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.
Day 10
Sydney
During your final day in Sydney, see the last of the sights and explore more of this amazing city.
Overnight: Wake Up! Sydney or similar.
Day 11
Sydney/Arrawarra
Journey north by train to Coffs Harbour, taking the opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views. Upon arrival to Coffs Harbour station, the group will travel to Spot X Surf Camp, your base for the next few days.
Overnight: Spot X Surf Camp or similar (dinner included).
Day 12
Arrawarra
Take to the waves at sunrise with an included surf lesson at Spot X. Learn to paddle, stand, and ride the waves into shore. After, soak up the sunshine before embarking on a kangaroo trek to observe kangaroos in their natural habitat. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, taking in views of the stunning Solitary Islands Marine Park, scrambling around rockpools in a search for marine life, or head to Mullawarra Beach.
Overnight: Spot X Surf Camp or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).
Optional experience: Swimming.
Day 13
Arrawarra/Byron Bay
As you travel from Arrawarra to Byron Bay, take in stunning views of diverse landscapes. After lunch, walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse - the easternmost point in the country. Keep an eye out for migrating whales and pods of dolphins.
Overnight: Wake Up! Byron Bay or similar (breakfast included).
Day 14
Byron Bay
Take the day to explore this coastal destination - walking along hidden beaches, enjoying the surf, or opt to kayak through the stunning waters, where you may spot some of the wildlife that call this area home.
Overnight: Wake Up! Byron Bay or similar.
Optional experience: Byron Bay ocean kayaking
Day 15
Byron Bay / Brisbane
Today, journey to Brisbane, taking the day to explore this vibrant city. Perhaps visit the City Botanic Gardens, hike Mount Coot-tha, or explore Brisbane’s food and drink scene. In the evening, you may choose to explore the flavours of Eat Street Northshore night market, or visit one of the waterfront restaurants or bars under the illuminated Story Bridge in Fortitude Valley.
Overnight: BUNK Brisbane or similar.
Day 16
Brisbane / K'gari (Fraser Island)
An early start commences your journey to K'gari (Fraser Island), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will arrive to a traditional welcome ceremony from the Butchulla people, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. After this, embark on a 4WD tour, where you will swim in Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), hike through the rainforest and take a sunset beach walk. In the evening, gather around the campfire with your new friends.
Overnight: The Eco Retreat or similar (breakfast, lunch or dinner included).
Day 17
K'gari (Fraser Island) / Noosa
On this day, climb sand dunes on a 4x4 beach tour, visit the Maheno shipwreck and swim in the waters of Eli Creek, which pumps millions of litres of fresh water into the ocean each hour. In the afternoon, say farewell to K'gari and head to your next coastal destination, Noosa.
Overnight: Bounce Noosa or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Day 18
Noosa
Imagine rocky coastlines against perfect turquoise waters. Take a ferry and hike through Noosa National Park to reach the secluded and spectacular Hell's Gate beach, looking out for koalas along the way. After this, enjoy some free time in Noosa.
Overnight: Bounce Noosa or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Day 19
Noosa / Airlie Beach
The day is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps you may choose to explore Hastings Street or head into the waves for a spot of surfing, as Noosa is considered by some to be the best spot for surfing in Australia. In the afternoon, head to the train station for an overnight journey to Airlie Beach, home to the Whitsundays.
Overnight: Train to Airlie Beach
Optional experience: Noosa Everglades kayak adventure, Eumundi market.
Day 20
Airlie Beach
Arrive in Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. After settling in, enjoy a relaxed day at the beach, take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, or shop around town - Airlie Beach is yours to explore.
Overnight: Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel or similar.
Day 21
Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach
Today is an unforgettable day at sea. Hop aboard an ocean raft and zoom through the turquoise waters. Enjoy time snorkelling, bushwalking, and relaxing on the beach.
Overnight: Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel or similar (lunch included).
Optional experiences: Whitsunday Islands snorkelling.
Day 22
Airlie Beach / Cairns
Embark on a scenic drive to Cairns, stopping for breaks along the way to stretch your legs, take in the sights and visit some of Australia's "big things".
Overnight: Cairns Central YHA or similar.
Day 23
Cairns
Cairns is the perfect destination for those who love warm weather. Enjoy a free day, perhaps opting to book an excursion to snorkel the larges coral reef in the world. Spend your final evening celebrating the adventure you have shared with your fellow travellers.
Overnight: Cairns Central YHA or similar.
Optional experiences: Great Barrier Reef snorkelling from Cairns.
Day 24
Cairns
Depart at any time.
