China on a Shoestring—Beijing to Hong Kong (ACRG)
For ambitious travellers on a tight budget who are after an experience full of the very best this country has to offer, this tour showcases the scenic wonders without missing its most famous cities and sites. Walk back in time along the Great Wall then see the future in Shanghai. Our CEOs will help you dig deeper into the very best of China. Offering a great deal of flexibility, our optional activities allow you to go beyond the highlights.
Highlights: Exploring cosmopolitan cities, uncovering ancient capitals and charming rural villages, cruising the Yangtze River, marvelling at the Terracotta Warriors, standing in awe on the Great Wall.
China on a Shoestring: Hong Kong to Beijing (ACRC)
Soak in the vibrant pulse of Hong Kong, float down the Yangtze on a Chinese-style riverboat and walk the Great Wall with other others that share your appetite for adventure. Enjoy eighteen days packed with China's major sights and out-of-the way gems with the freedom to choose those that interest you. Cycle along Xian’s ancient city walls and through the stunning rice fields and limestone karsts of Yangzhou. Explore gorgeous scenery straight out of a painting or just relax and take it all in.
Highlights: Exploring Shanghai and Hong Kong's bustling streets and Yangshuo's karst scenery, cruising the Three Gorges of the Yangtse River, discovering history in Xi'an and Beijing, walking along the Great Wall of China.
Coast to Coast Camping Westbound (NUYF)
Yellowstone, the Badlands and Niagara Falls—once you’ve escaped the city limits, the US is a country defined by incredible wilderness. This affordable cross-country adventure keeps you on the ground between New York City, Chicago and San Francisco so you can experience what lies in between. Days feature magnificent sites like Yosemite and Old Faithful, while evenings offer experiences like cooking over a fire and camping in the great outdoors—imagine waking up beside the Mississippi. Travel coast to coast and embrace the soul of this great land.
Highlights: Exploring the New York City and San Francisco, getting wet on the Maid of the Mist, feeling like a cowboy in Jackson, camping beside the Mississippi River, meeting the presidents at Mount Rushmore, hiking in beautiful national parks.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Coast to Coast Road Trip Eastbound (NUFY)
Get out on the road and follow in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac to discover the real America. This ultimate coast-to-coast road trip connects you and your small group of fellow travellers to the iconic cities, natural wonders, national parks and monuments that make this land great. Learn about Navajo culture in the Southwest and what the odds are in Las Vegas. Whether it’s comfortable hotels in the cities or campsites in national parks, you’ll always be close to the action. So slide on your cowboy boots in Texas and your dancing shoes in Nashville and Memphis—it’s time to embrace the spirit of this land by hitting the open road.
Highlights: Strolling the hills of San Francisco, looking for wildlife in Yosemite, breaking a sweat in Death Valley, partying in Las Vegas and New Orleans, marvelling at the Grand Canyon and the cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde, watching bats in flight at Carlsbad Caverns, living history in Washington DC, setting eyes on the skyline of New York City.
Costa Rica on a Shoestring (CRBC)
Hit two of Costa Rica's famed features—volcanoes and beaches—on this exciting trip that isn't too hard on the wallet. Get the adrenaline pumping in La Fortuna, then soak up the hippie spirit of Montezuma and relax on the beach. While you're free to choose your own adventure and optional adrenaline-inducing activities like waterfall rappelling, your accommodation and transportation are included and our expert CEOs will help you make the most of your time. Take a trip that's packed with just the essentials—eight days of maximum Costa Rica at minimum cost.
Highlights: Trying adrenaline sports like whitewater rafting and waterfall rappelling, taking in the views of Arenal Volcano towering over La Fortuna, chilling out on the Pacific, trying to catch some waves.
Croatia Adventure - Zagreb to Dubrovnik (ECZD)
A trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is not your backpacker’s typical European tour—it’s way better. In one week, scramble from historic Zagreb along the Adriatic Coast to stunning Dubrovnik. Along the way you’ll hit the highlights—did we mention Pag and Hvar, along the coastline? But you’ll also discover a Europe too often ignored by travellers. Party in exclusive clubs and wander historic and picture-perfect old lanes. Come away from Europe with more than just great photographs—travel with young and fun travellers and you’ve got friends for life.
Highlights: Making new friends over drinks along the Adriatic, scrambling around medieval fortresses, connecting with the culture in charming old villages, discovering the rich and varied countryside of the Balkans, exploring Diocletian's Palace on a guided tour.
Cuban Rhythms (CCCR)
For too many people, Cuba is nothing more than a beach resort. That’s crazy; the island practically buzzes with energy and you should do likewise—get moving. Journey through the culture-soaked streets of Trinidad and Old Havana for your fill of drinking and dancing. The music here pours out of open windows. Hit the beach and explore the outdoors then connect with the locals in homestays and make friends for life as you hit the sites with other young people like yourself. Boring? Impossible!
Highlights: Dancing the night away with other young travellers in Old Havana, mingling with the locals at overnight homestays, sampling the local rum and cigars, connecting to the salsa culture on the dance floor, moving those hips to incredible live music, exploring colonial Havana's alleyways, lazing under the Caribbean sun.
Delta and Falls Overland (DZFO)
Feel the splash of the Okavango Delta from a dugout mokoro canoe and the mists of majestic Victoria Falls—described by the local Kololo people as "the smoke that thunders". Experience the colours, culture and scenery of Zambia, Botswana and Nambia on this well-packed nine-day adventure. Meet the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert and the elephants of Chobe National Park. With a knowledgeable CEO leading the way, travel aboard our overland truck is well paced and wilderness camping will keep you in the thick of the action. Prepare yourself for an utterly unique African experience.
Highlights: Meeting the San bushmen on the fringes of the Kalahari Desert, Getting into the wild with game walks, dug-out canoe rides, and wilderness camping in the Okavango Delta, Cruising the Chobe River at sunset, Getting wet at the mighty Victoria falls.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Dunes, Deltas and Falls (DZLD)
If you want to soak up the colours, culture and scenery of this incredible region, this is the ultimate expedition into southwestern Africa. Experience game drives, leave footprints on the world's highest sand dunes, wonder at the majesty of Victoria Falls and canoe game-rich deltas. Our overland trucks are an adventurous and inexpensive way to see the highlights while wilderness camping will bring you closer to the region’s wildlife—drift off to sleep to the call of cranes and awake to the rustle of elephants grazing on nearby riverbanks.
Highlights: Tracking the 'Big 5', witnessing Victoria Falls, cruising the Chobe River at sunset, camping in African wilderness, meeting the San bushmen, trying adrenaline activities, soak up Cape Town's culture.
East Coast Encompassed - Sydney to Cairns (OAEC)
Rugged landscapes, crashing surf and indigenous culture stretching back through time and beyond—Australia’s East Coast possesses a truly otherworldly allure. This trip offers you a comprehensive, authentic and wholly affordable experience in one of the country’s most popular regions. Raw thrills and refined pleasures abound out here. In the space of a few days, you’ll sample wines in the Hunter Valley, spend the night in a teepee, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, catch a few waves, spearfish with local Aborigines, shear a sheep and play a didgeridoo. When people back home ask what you did on your trip, just tell ‘em: “Everything.”
Highlights: Island hopping by yacht through the Whitsunday Islands, overnighting at a traditional sheep station and a beach teepee, learning to surf in Byron Bay, zipping over dunes in a 4x4 on a remote sand island, snorkelling the world's largest reef, spearing fish and savouring lunch with local Aborigines, sleeping in a 'swag' under the impressive southern night sky
Egypt on a Shoestring (DPRE)
Ancient wonders, bustling markets and rugged mountain views—experience the best of Egypt's history and culture on this budget adventure. Sail the Nile and wander through the temples and tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Of course, you'll witness the magnificence of the pyramids, but you can also climb Mt Sinai and relax at the beachside village of Dahab along the Red Sea. 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 spent in this ancient region.
Highlights: Shopping in bazaars, taking an overnight felucca journey with support boat, exploring ancient temples and city streets, relaxing at the Red Sea, dining with the locals in a Nubian village.
Europe Encompassed (EELL)
You. Europe. 24 days. Ready? You’d better be, because this epic London-to-London romp through the Old World’s greatest cities doesn’t slow down for stragglers. Geared towards budget-conscious travellers eager to check an entire continent off their ‘must-do’ list in one fell swoop, this adventure will take you from the busy streets of the English capital to Paris’ most elegant galleries and cafés, the stunning natural brilliance of the Swiss Alps, the rugged beauty of Italy’s Cinque Terre and the party capitals of Berlin and Amsterdam before wrapping up with a celebratory pint in a London pub. Phew! We’re tired just talking about it.
Highlights: Pounding the pavement in cities teeming with history, Exploring galleries and museums, Discovering medieval towns straight from fairytales, Sampling regional wines and cuisine, Visiting nine countries in less than a month, Taking in the nightlife across Europe.
Galapagos on a Shoestring (SEGS)
This 9-day adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the incredible wildlife and scenery of the Galapagos Islands but prefer to sleep on shore—so your time on the water is limited to commuting between islands. Go ashore at the lesser-visited island of Isabela and spend your days with playful sea lions, giant manta rays and the Galapagos giant tortoise. With fewer inclusions but plenty of options, you can choose which activities are right for you and experience one of the natural wonders of the world on a budget.
Highlights: Witnessing whitetip sharks at 'Shark Alley', travelling by public speedboats around the Galapagos Islands, feeling like a local during a family homestay, camping in the highlands of Isabela Island with views towards the ocean, visiting Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Great Ocean Road West—Melbourne to Adelaide (OAMA)
This might be a quick trip along the Great Ocean Road—but you’ll never feel rushed. Geared towards budget-conscious travellers looking to hit the highlights of the south coast, this itinerary features lots of inclusions at a great price. What’s more, you’ll have lots of options to get active when you head inland to Grampians National Park. Forego the typical coach tour and experience Australia the way it was meant to be explored.
Highlights: Marvelling at the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, trekking and spotting wildlife in the region's national parks, spotting wildlife in remote saltwater lagoons.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
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.
India on a Shoestring (AHRH)
From the monuments of Delhi to the colourful cities of Rajasthan, experience three weeks of northern India's best. Marvel at Jaisalmer's mud fortress and Bikaner's unique temple before journeying into the desert for an overnight camel safari. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and make your way to the Ganges River at Varanasi. Your expert CEO will take care of the hassles so you're free to see the sights or just soak up the vibe—India is home to great food, fascinating culture, alluring sights and friendly and inviting people. Discover the charms and mystery that make up this incredible country.
Highlights: Drinking in a kaleidoscope of colour and culture, experiencing spiritual Varanasi, marvelling at the Taj in Agra, wandering vibrant cities, revelling in the colourful villages of Rajasthan, visiting the Ganges.
Indochina Discovery (ATID)
Discover the heart and soul of Indochina on this tour of four very diverse countries. Encounter history, both ancient and modern, and witness the unbelievable splendour of Angkor Wat. Our CEOs will ensure your accommodation and transportation are covered—so you can choose the activities that interest you. Experience Halong Bay by boat and ride bicycles around Vang Vieng. Push through hectic city lanes and tap into the pulsing nightlife. And with other travellers your own age, you can be sure to get down with adventurers that’ll keep up.
Highlights: Revelling in the majesty of Angkor Wat, enjoying a delicious Khmer meal at a vocational training restaurant funded by Planeterra, chilling out on golden beaches, floating down the mighty Mekong, snorkelling beautiful reefs, shopping in quaint Hoi An, cruising magical Halong Bay, exploring the streets of serene Luang Prabang.
In Search Of Iguassu—Rio to Buenos Aires (JRB)
Dance your way through the best of South America's colourful cities. Kick off your adventure in Rio where you're free to explore the carnival atmosphere or soak up rays. You'll enjoy time outdoors and on the beach at Ilha Grande and connect with the land at an estancia stay in Uruguay. Best of all, we'll fly over to Iguassu Falls for more time to explore the immense cascades. With accommodation and transport arranged by a CEO, this trip offers great value and is the perfect way to discover the South America's unique vibe.
Highlights: Revelling in Rio, wandering around colonial Paraty, sipping a caipirinha on the beach in southern Brazil, being awed by Iguassu Falls, discovering the charm of Uruguay at an estancia, sampling the food and wine of Buenos Aires.
Joburg to Nairobi Overland (DAJB)
Connecting two major hubs, this overland journey will take you from Johannesburg to Nairobi and into the stunning wilderness of the six countries that lie in between. Track Africa’s Big Five on game drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro and head to the Okavango Delta for game walks and mokoro canoe excursions. Inhale the mists of Victoria Falls and the fragrant air of spice plantations in Zanzibar. You'll make your discoveries by using a combination of a 16-person minibus and a rugged overland truck. Combine this with bush camping, a social atmosphere and a comprehensive itinerary and you have one hell of an adventure.
Highlights: Marvelling at Victoria Falls, tracking rhinos at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, being overwhelmed with 4x4 game drives in Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, immersing yourself in ancient cultures with traditional dancing, realizing that not all strolls are created equal on a game walk in the Okavango Delta, spending three glorious days on exotic Zanzibar.
Kakadu Adventure (OAKA)
Get remote and head into the last frontiers of Australia—Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Featuring lots of inclusions at a great price, this itinerary is geared towards budget-conscious travellers who want to make the most of their time in Kakadu. Take in the region’s ancient landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, pristine rock pools and magnificent gorges and meet some of the locals. Round out your experience with a guided exploration of the regions ancient art, gaining insight to Aboriginal culture.
Highlights: Exploring remote areas of the Northern Territory, discovering secret watering holes and waterfalls, spotting crocs by boat, viewing sites where Crocodile Dundee was filmed.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
