Adventure Tours in Australia & Oceania

This Gapforce program is an action-packed, six-week tour combining travel and adventure with volunteering on Australia's famed East Coast. Your journey begins in the awesome city of Sydney before heading north to Brisbane via the legendary Byron Bay. You will spend two weeks volunteering on an environmental conservation project, a great way to give back to this amazing country, before continuing north into Queensland. Sailing on the Whitsunday islands, 4x4 jeep rides on Fraser Island, and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef are just some of the highlights. Your epic adventure ends with a week in Cape Tribulation, a stunning paradise where the reef meets the rainforest.

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Living aboard sailing yachts in small groups of 11 to 13 teenagers of similar ages, ActionQuest students discover the British Virgin Islands, learn new skills, earn certifications, and develop leadership abilities while having the time of their lives! Up to eight yachts sail together in a flotilla, allowing participants to connect with others from all over the United States and the world. Under the guidance of licensed sailing experts, participating teams will take charge of piloting and running their vessels. They will have a blast while earning certifications in sailing and scuba diving, and also learning marine biology, water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, navigation, and seamanship. Eleven distinct programs cater to students of all levels, and no experience is necessary to join our most popular introductory voyage. Although the program's emphasis is on everything above and below the water, the crew will also explore the islands, hike the mountains, and take in fiery sunsets during beach barbecues and parties.

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

Based in Queenstown, this program combines skills acquisition with the opportunity to truly embrace an outdoor lifestyle. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, pack raft, camp, and explore the backcountry in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Our favorite handpicked locations will provide you with a well-rounded learning experience and genuine connection with the diverse environment within the South Island. From iconic destinations like Milford Sound to hidden local gems that aren't on generic travel itineraries, you'll explore the diverse landscapes surrounding you as you embrace the Kiwi culture. If you're looking for a gateway to living, working, and exploring New Zealand, look no further. The industry connections and networking opportunities created through this program will unlock endless value for your future. This small group tour through New Zealand is perfect for those looking to take a gap year, change their careers, or simply look for a deeper connection to nature.

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

In Caqalai, a small beach encircled island located east of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, you’ll gain your PADI Advanced Open Water qualification. With frequent diving expeditions, this is an opportunity to enhance your diving skills, while learning about the prevalent conservation concerns of the island. Work alongside local conservationists, GVI staff, and fellow participants to conduct underwater surveys to record and better understand the coral reef ecology and species ecosystems in the area. To further support environmental awareness in the local community, you’ll collaborate with local community members to lead conservation-focused workshops. Your contributions support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 13: Climate Action, and Goal 14: Life Below Water. The program duration varies between a 4-week duration for experienced divers who have a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent and non-divers who will be eligible to join an eight-week or 12-week duration program.

Fly across the International Dateline and arrive in the Land Down Under! Our journey to Australia and New Zealand is a TFT favorite, combining adventure with cultural exploration and major travel destinations with little-known gems. In New Zealand, we will experience the country’s famed natural beauty and enjoy a boat cruise on picture-perfect Milford Sound in the mountains. During the cruise, we will watch for penguins, seals, and even dolphins! We will also take an exhilarating ride on the world’s fastest jet boat, zooming through rock canyons. To cap off our time in New Zealand, we will enjoy a traditional Maori ceremony and even have the chance to learn the dance and participate! After New Zealand, we’ll hop on a short flight for the ultimate Australian experience. Here, we will enjoy the best of Australia’s wildlife while completing service work with local organizations dedicated to protecting the country’s unique and diverse wildlife and natural habitat. Projects include working at a rehabilitation center where we will help care for injured and orphaned tree-kangaroos and reintroduce them back into the wild, and visiting an endangered ecosystem.

Join us for a transformative 21-day cultural immersion in Australia and Fiji. We start in Fiji with a warm welcome ceremony, engaging in hands-on cooking classes to explore the diverse flavors of Fijian cuisine. Our community service focuses on a meaningful meal program that empowers Fijian women and fosters connections through shared meals. Traveling to Viti Levu's scenic highlands, we immerse ourselves in traditional island life by participating in bamboo raft building and local farming activities. On Taveuni, we embrace “island time” with snorkeling, kayaking, and preparing traditional meals while learning local customs. Next, we head to Australia, beginning in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Here, we earn our SCUBA certification and experience breathtaking underwater biodiversity while staying on a liveaboard boat. Our adventure includes community service at a wildlife refuge, where we care for iconic Australian animals. We’ll also delve into Aboriginal culture in the Daintree Rainforest, learning traditional practices and the connection between the land and its people.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to become a certified surf instructor on the breathtaking beaches of Australia! The Academy Surfing Instructors (ASI) accredit this program, which blends expert surf training, ocean safety education, and hands-on teaching experience, equipping you with the skills to conquer waves and inspire others. You will gain a surfing technique and a globally recognized certification. If you're looking for adventure, a career change, or a chance to connect with nature, this program offers the perfect balance of skill development, adventure, and environmental awareness.

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

Explore the best of Australia with a 12-month visa. You'll have the ability to choose where you live, travel, and work; receiving support in the background during your adventure! Earn money to fund your travels, make a million friends and memories, and maybe take a side trip or two (Fiji anyone?). This program is geared towards travelers who want to do their own thing, but with a leg up in the job search. There are many seasonal jobs throughout Australia for proactive and independent travelers. Qualifications U.S. Citizen, 18-30 years old.

Travel through Australia and Fiji on a high school adventure that blends island culture, marine exploration, and rugged Outback discovery. Begin in Fiji, where you experience village life, explore rivers and reefs, and connect with local traditions. Continue to Australia to bike through Sydney, sail the Whitsundays, and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. Trek among ancient rock formations in the Outback, camp under star-filled skies, and learn from local experts. Return home with new confidence, lifelong friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Pacific cultures and environments.

The magic of Fiji's pristine waves is matched only by the world-famous friendliness of its people and their diverse, captivating culture. Experience this culture to its fullest by sharing in the communal life of a small village, where the people hold the deep belief that family and friends are the most important things in life - a truly immersive teen travel program! This program has been designed to bring together open-minded and adventurous students. It combines authentic cultural exchange, meaningful service, and adventure. We immerse ourselves in communities that exist without cars or stores and gain a deeper understanding of the Fijian way of life. Then, we top it off by visiting the beautiful Yasawa Islands and supporting biological researchers in community service work. A student travel program to Fiji is something you will never forget!

Why pick one paradise when you can have two? From kangaroos to coconuts, this program is the ultimate mix of thrill and chill. Kick it off in Australia with surf lessons on the Gold Coast, SCUBA diving the Great Barrier Reef, climbing the legendary Sydney Harbour Bridge, and rafting the tropical Tully river. Along the way, discover Aussie culture in Brisbane and Sydney, from endangered koalas to the iconic Opera House. Just when you think it can’t get better, fly over the Pacific and relive a day in Hawaii thanks to the International Date Line! You’ll snorkel in crystal waters, surf the waves on Waikiki Beach, and experience an authentic Hawaiian luau under the stars. Led by incredible leaders and shared with new friends, this small-group teen travel program is all about big adventures, unforgettable moments, and living life to the fullest.

Work alongside conservationists and researchers and dive with sharks in a controlled environment in this exciting program for young participants who are at least 15 years old and have a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent scuba certification. Dispel negative myths surrounding sharks and discover their importance to ocean ecosystems. On a single dive, observe bull, lemon, and tiger sharks. At the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, dispel the myths surrounding sharks and observe multiple species in a controlled setting. Learn all about shark biology and behavior. Contemplate their incredible survival over the past 400 million years and discuss their future. Even assist with research and conservation efforts. In Fiji, the study of sharks isn't limited to the ocean. Listen to locals tell stories of Dakuwaqa, the ancient Shark God in a Fijian village. Develop a greater understanding of these beautiful and often misunderstood creatures. And discover a newfound love and respect for the Fijian people and their islands. On this extraordinary South Pacific adventure, you’ll acquire much more than college credit.

Treasure close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and many exotic animals as you journey through Australia. Our programs give numerous hands-on experiences, including caring for animals at the Australia Zoo, snorkeling amid coral reefs, and trying Aboriginal practices like throwing boomerangs. Our current program offerings include: Service and Adventure Down Under: You will enjoy Australia’s Sunshine Coast as you surf, look for koalas on the coastline, learn about Aboriginal culture, and tour the Australia Zoo. Wrap up the program with a snorkel cruise amid shipwrecks and coral reefs. Animal Conservation: You will learn about animal care at the Australia Zoo and a wildlife rehabilitation center. Kayak to search for dolphins and whales and enjoy other must-do adventures for animal lovers.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

If you love adventure, why not spend some time in the Australian outback? Earn money and explore the real side of Australia that many tourists never get the chance to experience. Learn how to ride dirt bikes and horses, drive tractors, use chainsaws, gain fencing skills, and work cattle in the yards. Complete a five-day safety and introductory course, and then get a guaranteed paid job in rural Australia. You will be greeted in Brisbane and transferred up to the beautiful tourist town of Noosa. Make use of the amazing activities in attractions that are within easy reach, including Fraser Island, Australia Zoo, and other local places. You will be taken to the training farm on the fourth day and enjoy five days learning new skills and gaining safety advice to assist you in working successfully. During your training, you will be matched to a suitable job that is within your abilities. Your first job is guaranteed; and if you choose to find another job later on, support is also provided. Most initial contracts are between three months to six months and the pay is from U300 (Australian dollars) a week, plus full board.