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' National Select Tour
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A range of accommodation from basic to very good and an amazing amount of extra activities.”
Jan, traveled in February
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
- US$4,328
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
- US$1,624
New Zealand Highlights
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Incredible trip with Wild Kiwi! Saw the best of New Zealand in a well planned and executed itinerary.”
Kristen, traveled in November
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
- US$4,742+$798 upfront costs
New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“She really went out of her way to include everyone and to organise anything and everything for everyone!”
Austin, traveled in December
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 $3,080
22% Off- US$2,390You save $691
Young explorers (average age 21) dive into Queenstown's adventure sports and Franz Josef Glacier walks. Social hostels like Nomads Queenstown and Hotel Give foster friendships over wine tasting and thermal pool soaking.
Duration 15 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Hanmer Springs, Franz Josef, Lake Hawea, Queenstown, Milford Sound Age Range Ages 18-49 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From $2,059
15% Off- US$1,750You save $309
Big South
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was hands down the most spectacular place I have been too!! Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking at heading to New Zealand!!”
William, 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, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough, Kaikoura Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From
15% Off- US$2,214+$332 upfront costs
The G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Tours)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour brings us to many places we really enjoyed but may not have travelled to otherwise.”
Jac, traveled in October
Queenstown's bungy jumping and Taupo skydiving thrill 20-35 year old adventure seekers. Cultural immersion at Te Pā Tū Village, Tongariro Crossing treks, and Franz Josef Glacier explorations fill 23 nights of group activities.
Duration 24 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mount CookSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-40 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From $3,597
15% Off- US$3,057You save $540
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 $3,057
10% Off- US$2,751+$298 upfront costsYou save $306
Duration 21 days Destinations Auckland, Whangarei, Bay of Islands, Waitangi, Paihia, Rotorua, Huka Falls Resort, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, OhakuneSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,665
10% Off- US$3,299You save $367
Byron's Surf House rooftop bar sets the social scene for young adventurers (average age 23). Tackle Fraser Island by 4WD, dive into Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, and unwind at beachfront hostels along Australia's east coast.
Duration 30 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Fraser Island, Magnetic Island, Cairns Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Welcome To Travel From
10% Off- US$3,255
What people love about Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
- 19 Day 'Ruru' National Select Tour
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.
- New Zealand Highlights
I went on a wild kiwi tour of New Zealand and had the time of my life. Our guide Bennwas absolutely first class and it is a trip I will never forget.
- New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
I loved my trip, it was the best I've ever been on! So many things to do and places to see what a tour guide that knew her stuff! Such an adventure
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.