Bangkok to Singapore on a Shoestring (ATRM)
Bliss out on world-class beaches in exotic southern Thailand before cooling off in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia. This 2-week tour will introduce you to three diverse nations—and three of the region’s most vibrant cities. Sample street food or hit Bangkok’s clubs with other travellers your own age—so you can be sure to get down with those that’ll keep up. With your hotel and transport arranged by our CEOs, you can concentrate on choosing your own adventure: pack your trip with everything you want and nothing you don't.
Highlights: Exploring the streets of bustling Bangkok, stopping by Penang's Chinese shop houses, glimpsing beautiful green vistas in the the Cameron Highlands, diving into multicultural Kuala Lumpur, visiting three diverse countries in two weeks.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Best of the West (NUAA)
Skyscrapers, sequoias and impossibly big skies await you in America’s West. This 15-day tour through the urban and natural wonders of California, Arizona and Nevada is perfect for travellers who want to inject a little downtown energy into their out-of-town escapes. In the cities, you’ll traverse the concrete jungle by day with an expert CEO and overnight in centrally located hotels. Elsewhere, you’ll get the chance to marvel at the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and bike in the Yosemite Valley before tucking into a barbecue dinner and camping under the stars. This is no dream; it’s the West like you’ve never seen it before.
Highlights: Stargazing in Los Angeles, marvelling at a Grand Canyon sunset, getting your kicks on Route 66, breaking a sweat in Death Valley, taking a chance in Las Vegas, camping under the stars, hiking in Yosemite, embracing the laidback spirit of California's coast.
Brazil and Argentina on a Shoestring (SAZD)
Experience the treasures of Argentina and Brazil in this jam-packed trip. From tango in Buenos Aires to sun and surf in Rio, explore two of the continent’s most vibrant capitals. Marvel at the majesty of Iguassu Falls and let its power engulf you. Our CEOs will take you to the highlights on a shoestring and then let you loose so you can really do what you want. You’ll stick to public bus, which not only keeps costs down but gives you a chance to really meet the locals.
Highlights: Sipping caipirinhas on the beach, savouring the sophistication and cuisine of Buenos Aires, marvelling at Iguassu Falls, wandering around colonial Paraty, living it up in Rio.
Buenos Aires to La Paz Adventure (SABL)
Breathe in the Incan spirit of La Paz and the tango palaces of Buenos Aires on one 2-week adventure. Connecting the Atlantic to the Andes, you'll journey across the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, feel like a sophisticate as you sip wine in Buenos Aires and pull back the curtain on the centre of the continent. Best of all, you'll do it in the company of other fun, young travellers. Don't choose between inspiring wilderness and urban sophistication—do it all.
Highlights: Discovering colonial cities and historic cultures, crossing the Salar de Uyuni and surrounding desert altiplano on a 4x4 excursion, feeling like a sophisticate while sipping fine wines in Mendoza, witnessing the stunning scenery and unique cultures of Northern Argentina, doing it all with other fun, young travellers.
Camping Yosemite & Yellowstone (NUSF)
Imagine a land of lava and geysers, bears and bison, mountains and glaciers—now open your eyes to the possibilities of Yosemite and Yellowstone. This ultimate journey through these iconic national parks offers the outdoor enthusiast plenty of time to spot wildlife, soak in the scenery and experience the bubbling, gushing wonder of it all—there is more geothermal activity in Yellowstone than anywhere else in the world. Even when you close your eyes, you can still breathe in the clean park air.
Highlights: Being inspired by wilderness in the Rockies, dancing at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, following the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, watching geysers erupt in Yellowstone, strolling San Francisco.
Cape & Dunes Overland (DADO)
Journey from the city streets of Cape Town to the desert of Namibia and experience the diversity of Africa on this classic adventure—Namibia is one of the world's most fascinating countries. Encounter a thrilling game drive through Etosha National Park and explore the world's highest sand dunes at Soussusvlei. Our unique overland truck will get you around smoothly and safely, while camping will keep you in the thick of the action. With guaranteed departures, plenty of optional excursions and a certified CEO to take care of the hassles, you’ll be free to absorb the spirit of this amazing country.
Highlights: Soak up cosmopolitan Cape Town, take in the breathtaking view of the immense Fish River Canyon, tackle the world's largest sand dunes, get your adrenaline going on some adventurous activities, snap shots of the Big Five in Etosha National Park.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Cape & Dunes Overland (DNDO)
Experience incredible desert scenery and cosmopolitan city streets as you discover the diverse riches of South Africa and Namibia on this two-week adventure. Beginning in Namibia, and continuing down the western edge of South Africa, this tour is a nature and adventure lover's dream. Explore the world's highest sand dunes, visit Africa's largest canyon and explore Etosha National Park in search if the 'Big 5'. Our expert CEOs will reveal the region’s hidden gems, taking the hassle out of travel so you can focus on breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife. This is truly an African experience.
Highlights: Seeing the 'Big 5' in Etosha National Park, trying adrenaline activities, tackling the world's largest sand dunes, appreciating beauty in the Fish River Canyon and culture in Cape Town.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Frontier Country (NUAW)
The last gunfighter hung up his spurs long ago, but the dust, duels and derring-do of the Old West still captivate 21st-century imaginations today. On this trip, you’ll journey back to a time when the only things a man needed to get by were a trusty horse and a steady six-shooter. From the gritty essence of Tombstone and Santa Fe to the wild back countries of New Mexico and Colorado, we reckon you’ll get the most authentic feel for life in the saddle this side of the Rio Grande.
Highlights: Reliving the Wild West in Tombstone, walking amongst the spectacular rock formations of the Garden of the Gods, counting stars at Lake Powell, being humbled by the beauty of Zion, trying your luck in Las Vegas, learning about Navajo culture in Monument Valley.
Highlights of Alaska (NUGG)
In North America, you can’t get much further off the grid—both mentally and physically—than Alaska. Perched at the top of the continent, it’s practically its own planet; an otherworldly land of massive glaciers, towering peaks and rare wildlife. Our adventure up here is suitably out-of-this-world, dropping you deep into the heart of northern nature with options for glacier cruises, kayak fjord excursions and the raw natural beauty of Denali National Park. It’s a huge place, but don’t worry; your savvy CEO will help you tame this vast, sprawling, flat-out gorgeous land.
Highlights: Devouring seafood in Anchorage, hiking in stellar Denali National Park, being dwarfed by Mt McKinley, hearing glaciers groan at Wrangell-St Elias National Park, marvelling at views of the Kenai Peninsula.
Highlights of the Eastern US & Canada (NUYH)
This grand tour of the eastern US and Canada is a sensory overload of everything that makes North America great—skyscrapers, monuments, Niagara Falls, ice cream, canoeing, poutine, subways, whales, sunshine, designer boutiques and nature hikes. On this adventure, we’ll ditch the big, clunky buses and pile small groups into private vans, clocking miles of smiles all over New York, Washington, Toronto, Montreal, Vermont and all points in between. Your friends are already jealous.
Highlights: Taking a bite out of the Big Apple, embracing the diversity of Toronto and Montreal, hiking through paradise in Algonquin Provincial Park, following the Freedom Trail in Boston and the path to independence in Philadelphia, getting wet on the Maid of the Mist.
Kenya & Uganda Gorilla Adventure (DKKU)
Meet mountain gorillas and the other amazing wildlife on this 2-week overland adventure. Spot wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park and join experienced trackers while travelling deep into the Ugandan forests for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spot endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Our overland trucks are an adventurous and inexpensive way to see the highlights while wilderness camping will keep you in the thick of the action. Experience a world apart as you encounter the colourful cultures and wild landscapes of Kenya and Uganda.
Highlights: Seeing a mountain gorilla up close and personal, searching for the elusive wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, photographing diverse wildlife, rafting down the White Nile River.
Laos & Thailand on a Shoestring (AVRL)
Wander the tranquil monasteries of Luang Prabang and experience the French colonial influence while sipping coffee at a café. Take 12 days to uncover this laid-back corner of South East Asia. While you're free to choose your own adventure, your accommodation and transportation are included and our expert CEOs will help you make the most of your time. Take a slow boat down the Mekong or admire the limestone karsts surrounding Vang Vieng from your pushbike.
Highlights: Exploring vibrant Hanoi, revelling in the shadows of limestone karsts, discovering the serenity of Luang Prabang, floating on the mighty Mekong, experiencing the beauty of scenic northern Thailand, enjoying the bustle of Bangkok.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
La Paz to Buenos Aires Adventure (SBLB)
Breathe in the Incan spirit of La Paz and the tango palaces of Buenos Aires on this 2-week adventure. Connecting the Andes to the Atlantic, you'll journey across the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the Uyuni Salt Flats, feel like a sophisticate as you sip wine in Buenos Aires and pull back the curtain on the centre of the continent. Best of all, you'll do it in the company of other fun, young travellers. Don't choose between inspiring wilderness and urban sophistication—do it all.
Highlights: Discovering colonial cities and historic cultures, crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding desert altiplano on a 4x4 excursion, witnessing the stunning scenery and unique cultures of northern Argentina, doing it all with other fun young travellers.
Marrakech Express (EEME)
There’s so much to see in Europe; don’t settle for a cramped bus tour. Head south for an adventure as unique as you are. Beginning in London—traveller central—you’ll cross the channel for some French culture before hitting Spain for Moorish history, architecture in Barcelona and a tapas culture that will set you up for the endless nightlife. Best of all, this trip doesn’t fade out—you’ll finish up in Morocco with its mosques, medinas and kasbahs. It’s a European tour with a southern kiss of the exotic.
Highlights: Meeting the ghost of Moorish Spain at the Alhambra, sampling small plates on a tapas bar crawl, dining on a picnic lunch at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, exploring the medinas and kasbahs of Morocco, dodging snake charmers, keeping it real with a small group of like-minded travellers.
Melbourne to the Red Centre (OAMR)
If you really want to get Down Under and experience Australia’s highlights without feeling rushed, you’ll have to get off the big coaches. Explore Melbourne before hitting the Great Ocean Road and cutting through the outback to the Red Centre. Here you’ll experience the mysteries of Uluru and gain insight into Aboriginal culture. When it comes time to bed down, shake things up with a variety of unique accommodation—from safari tents to underground hostels and even a traditional sheep station.
Highlights: Marvelling at the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, bedding down at a traditional sheep station, learning about dreamtime stories from the Aborigines, catching the magnificent colours of Uluru at sunset, exploring the Red Centre with a local guide
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Mexico Ancient Civilizations (MMC)
From the hustle of modern Mexico City, which preserves its magic from centuries gone by, to the ruins at Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this adventure takes in the cultural and historical highlights. It’s perfect for travellers on a tight budget looking to see as much as possible of this diverse region.
Highlights: Visiting Mayan ruins, dancing the night away in Mexican bars and clubs, bargaining for beautiful textiles and handmade goods at colourful markets, savouring the tasty Mexican food and drink, chilling on the white sand beaches of the Mayan Riviera.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Most of the Coast—Sydney to Cairns (OASC)
The route up Australia’s East Coast has earned its rep as one of the seemingly endless supply of must-do experiences in the country. The classic Sydney-to-Cairns route introduces you to both sides of modern Australia—the bright lights of the big city and the raw beauty of the outback. You’ll get to try your hand at dozens of atypical activities—everything from sheep-shearing and wine-tasting to yachting and snorkelling. And when you travel in small groups like we do, you really get out there into the wild to meet the locals and experience the land like they do. That amazing new frontier you’ve been looking for? Here it is.
Highlights: Tasting wine in the Hunter Valley, Sleeping under the stars and at a sheep station, Learning to surf in famous Byron Bay, Island-hopping through the Whitsundays, Cooling off in remote swimming holes, Snorkelling the world's largest reef.
National Parks of the Canadian Rockies Westbound (NCRU)
The Rockies are a great reason to explore the Canadian West, but why stop there? We asked that question, then answered it with this trip—a sprawling, nature-rich mini-epic that melds some of Canada’s best national parks with time off the mist-shrouded shores of Vancouver Island. Loaded with diverse experiences—whale-watching, glacier hikes, hot springs and much, much more—and bookend nights in Calgary and Vancouver, you’ll stuff a lifetime’s worth of adventure into the space of a mere two weeks.
Highlights: Watching surfers in Tofino, creating a postcard-perfect photo in Jasper, sipping lattes with the pretty people in Vancouver, feeling humble while gazing up at the mighty Rockies, getting a bird's-eye view of Banff from a gondola, sharing lunch with the goats at Coombs market.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
New Zealand—South Island Encompassed (ONSE)
Looking to tackle a bundle of different environments all in one go? New Zealand’s South Island has what you need and then some. Action is the common thread throughout this trip that incorporates hiking, kayaking, biking, glacier treks and even bungee jumping across a variety of landscapes, including rainforests, glaciers and some of the most gorgeous coastline you’ll ever see. This trip is exciting even when you’re not moving; accommodations include an authentic bush camp and a wilderness lodge deep in the rainforest itself. Unique? You bet.
Highlights: Exploring the trails of Abel Tasman National Park by foot, hiking the Franz Josef glacier valley, getting an adrenaline rush in Queenstown, weaving through the remote fjords of the Doubtful Sound by sea kayak, biking while stopping to taste local wine.
Outback to the Top End - Adelaide to Darwin (OAAD)
You can’t get Down Under through a bus window. If you’re going to get off the tourist track, you’ll have to shake things up a bit—that’s why we’ve turned to trains, 4x4s, and buses for this itinerary. Starting in charming Adelaide, cut through the outback and explore the mysteries of Uluru. Follow your curiosity down the deserted tracks that make Australia so remote and spend 14 days discovering the natural beauty of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
Highlights: Bedding down at a traditional sheep station and outside under the outback sky, learning about dreamtime stories from the Aborigines, experiencing a night underground in Coober Pedy, catching the magnificent colours of Uluru, hiking the Red Centre, riding the route of Afghan cameleers on the Ghan Train, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kakadu National Park
