Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
What if you kayaked to Cathedral Cove's natural arch, explored glow-worm caves at Waitomo, and then learned about Maori culture at Mitai Village? Take a cruise through Milford Sound's beautiful fjord, then hike around beautiful Lake Tekapo. New Zealand is small, so you can see a lot of different things without having to travel a lot between regions. You can see volcanoes, Maori traditions, and beautiful alpine scenery.
10 best trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in Australia/Oceania
Compiled by
NinaAustralia/Oceania travel expert at TourRadar
- 19-Day Ruru Select: The Premier New Zealand North & South Island Journey (Auckland Start)
- The Moa Tour
- East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
- New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
- New Zealand Highlights
- Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
- New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
- Big South
- Premium - South Island Escape
- Australia: Beaches and Reefs (Without Sailing)
19-Day Ruru Select: The Premier New Zealand North & South Island Journey (Auckland Start)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The 19 day Ruru tour was fantastic! All of the sites and options for activities were great.”
Mary, traveled in January
Heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier, then head to Queenstown for bungy jumping or jet boating in the Adventure Capital of the World. After dark, check out Queenstown's nightlife scene with live music along the lakefront and late-night burgers at Fergburger. Cruise through Milford Sound to spot dolphins and fur seals, then hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing across volcanic craters and turquoise lakes.
Duration 19 days Destinations Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua, Hot Water Beach, Lake Aniwhenua, Taupo, Whanganui National Park, Tongariro National Park, Wellington, PictonSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Stray Travel From $4,364
20% Off- US$3,491You save $873
Ages 20-35 can try black water rafting through Waitomo's underground caves, jumping off waterfalls, and kayaking to Split Apple Rock in Abel Tasman National Park. Party nights at Mahinapua Hotel by the lake lead to Queenstown's Kawarau Bridge bungy jump, white water rafting down Kaituna River, and heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier.
Duration 17 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Hokitika, Franz JosefSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
20% Off- US$1,638
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
76 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was the most amazing time for me here in Australia. Everything was being taken care of by Ultimate and Eli, so for us the only thing what we had to do was have fun.”
Femke, traveled in March
Sydney nightlife, Byron Bay surf lessons, and Gold Coast party scenes await 18-35 travelers. Whitsunday sailing adventures, Fraser Island camping, and optional Mission Beach skydiving complete this social adventure.
Duration 43 days Destinations Sydney, Port Stephens, Byron Bay, Nimbin, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Beerwah, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Fraser IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Room Type Shared Operator Ultimate Travel From
20% Off- US$4,854
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
26 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing, made great memories.”
Sarah, traveled in October
New Zealand's top thrills await 20-35 year olds in Queenstown's extreme sports scene, Franz Josef's glacier hikes, and Abel Tasman's kayaking ($200). Travelers connect during included breakfasts and group dinners.
Duration 16 days Destinations Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Foulwind, Westport, Punakaiki, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator G Adventures From $2,699
25% Off- US$2,024You save $675
New Zealand Highlights
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The South Island was full of adventure, with highlights like skydiving, paddleboarding, and trekking through stunning scenery.”
Dallas, traveled in January
New Zealand's adventure capital welcomes young travelers with bungy jumping in Queenstown and glacier walks at Franz Josef. The Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo's glowworm caves, and Milford Sound cruises showcase the country's diversity from premium accommodations.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Karangahake, Waihi, Mount Maunganui, Matamata, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Waitomo, HamiltonSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From
25% Off- US$4,782+$717 upfront costs
Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Excellent south islamf tour going to the main spots!”
Nicolas, traveled in November
Young travelers flock to Franz Josef Glacier for heli-hikes and Queenstown's extreme sports. Social hostels provide the perfect base while crafting greenstone and sailing through Milford Sound's dramatic fjords.
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Castle Hill Peak, Franz Josef, Lake Hawea, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo Age Range Ages 18-49 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
25% Off- US$1,152
New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accomodation was simple but really nice and the included breakfasts were great.”
Khayla, traveled in September
New Zealand's adventure capitals welcome 18-35 year olds with legendary Queenstown nightlife, Rotorua's Dawn Canopy Tour, and Lake Taupō's skydiving. Fourteen exciting locations span both islands.
Duration 16 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Picton, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, HokitikaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,295
22% Off- US$2,565You save $730
Big South
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour lets you be as social or as independent as you'd like. If you've got Julian as a guide, you've got a free source of honest opinions on every area and activity in NZ.”
Jason, traveled in January
South Island thrills include Queenstown's famous bungy jumps, Franz Josef glacier hikes, and Abel Tasman kayaking (approx. $150). Wine tasting in Marlborough and group dinners foster friendships.
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $2,233
10% Off- US$2,009+$335 upfront costsYou save $223
Premium - South Island Escape
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We really enjoyed our tour of South Island. It was very well organised and we all had the best time.”
Helen, traveled in February
New Zealand's South Island combines adventure with comfort. Queenstown's adrenaline activities, Franz Josef Glacier walks, and Milford Sound cruising captivate visitors. Premium stays complement social experiences at Mt Difficulty wine tasting and Dark Sky stargazing.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From
10% Off- US$2,391+$359 upfront costs
Kayak through the Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglades systems worldwide, surrounded by ancient rainforests and native wildlife. K'gari's 75-mile sand highway leads to Lake McKenzie's crystal-clear waters and Eli Creek for swimming. At Janbal Gallery in Daintree Rainforest, Kuku Yalanji people share Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.
Duration 16 days Destinations Sydney, Blue Mountains, Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, Noosa, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Magnetic Island, CairnsSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,350
10% Off- US$3,015+$298 upfront costsYou save $335
What people love about Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
- 19-Day Ruru Select: The Premier New Zealand North & South Island Journey (Auckland Start)
The 19 day Ruru tour was fantastic! We had the best small group of 10 and our guide, Nat was so knowledgeable and fun. She was really great about keeping us on schedule as well as giving us breaks during longer trips. She pointed out many things we would’ve missed. She was a really good driver as well. All of the sites and options for activities were great.
I had the best time ever with my group and our tour guide ?! Everything was so much fun and Eli was the best tour guide ever! It was a journey I would never forget. She really made the tour so special for us. It wouldn’t be the same without her.
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
- New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
Fantastic trip with a great group and an outstanding leader, who kept us entertained throughout the trip! Everything was planned and detailed for you. Any queries, you could just ask.
What our customers ask about Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
What are the best destinations for young adults visiting Australia/Oceania for the first time?
The East Coast of Australia and New Zealand's South Island stand out as prime destinations for first-time visitors. The Australian leg typically includes the surf culture of Byron Bay the natural wonders of the Whitsundays and exploring K'gari (Fraser Island) by 4x4. New Zealand's South Island offers Queenstown's adrenaline sports the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound and the coastal trails of Abel Tasman National Park. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "From surfing in Byron Bay to sailing around the Whitsundays - totally stunning! Would definitely recommend this tour to my friends." Places to stay run from budget-friendly spots like The Barn in Marahau to mid-range options such as the Mercure Resort in Queenstown.
How much spending money should I budget per day as a young traveler?
Daily expenses beyond tour costs average 80-100 USD in Australia and New Zealand. This covers basic meals (15-20 USD for lunch 30-40 USD for dinner) plus entertainment and activities. Adventure sports in places like Queenstown or Sydney can add 100-300 USD per activity to your budget. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The tour was great value with meals and key activities included but having extra money for nights out in Queenstown and optional activities like skydiving was essential." Many accommodations like BUNK Brisbane and Base Sydney provide kitchen facilities to help reduce food costs.
What are the most popular adventure activities for young travelers in Australia/Oceania?
Adventure seekers will find plenty of options throughout the region. Skydiving over Mission Beach costs around 300 USD while white water rafting in Cairns runs about 150 USD. Queenstown offers bungy jumping for 200 USD and many tours include surfing lessons in Byron Bay. As one TourRadar traveler recounted: "The activities were fantastic - the surfboarding and harbour cruise were my highlights I even got to drive the boat under harbour bridge!" Many tours book stays at adventure-focused spots like Base Adventure Lodge in Queenstown or Nomads in Byron Bay putting activities right at your doorstep.
What's the best time of year for young travelers to visit Australia/Oceania?
October through March brings the best combination of weather and social atmosphere. This period offers warm temperatures for coastal activities along Byron Bay and the Whitsundays plus ideal conditions for outdoor adventures on New Zealand's South Island. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "We were very lucky with the weather - our visits to Noosa Fraser Island and Airlie beach were just amazing." Popular spots like YHA hostels in major cities and The Barn in Abel Tasman see more visitors during these months creating a lively social scene.
What kind of accommodation can young travelers expect on these tours?
Accommodations focus on social settings and value with options ranging from hostels to unique local stays. Some standout examples include the tipi tents at Arts Factory Lodge in Byron Bay beachfront bungalows at Base Magnetic Island and shared rooms at JUCY Snooze Christchurch. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The hostels were fine (and that's coming from someone who had never stayed in a hostel before!)" Most places offer common spaces kitchens and social areas designed for meeting other travelers.
What's the nightlife like for young travelers in Australia/Oceania?
The region's nightlife caters well to younger crowds with plenty of social spots. Popular areas include the bar scene along Queenstown's Shotover Street Byron Bay's Beach Hotel and the always-busy Gilligan's Backpackers in Cairns. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The night will finish with a farewell dinner and drinks to toast to the incredible adventures and friends we have made." Many hostels including Base Sydney and Nomads Brisbane organize social events and pub crawls. Most tours place you near these entertainment districts making it easy to enjoy the scene with your group.