Australia and New Zealand are packed with legendary cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural wonders. These destinations are so rich with experiences that you could spend a lifetime exploring them—yet, there’s always more to discover. For 2025, new tours and revamped itineraries offer fresh ways to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of these two remarkable countries. Whether you’re exploring the wilds of Magnetic Island, learning about Aboriginal culture on Cape York, or indulging in the luxurious landscapes of New Zealand, here’s how to make the most of your travels.
Spot Koalas on Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island makes its debut on Intrepid’s new 18 to 35s Essential Brisbane to Cairns journey. This mountainous island is perfect for hiking and relaxing on the beach. With one of Australia’s largest wild koala populations, spotting these adorable animals is a highlight of the 10-day experience. Take a coastal walk in Noosa National Park, reaching Hell’s Gate Lookout—a far more inviting name than it suggests.
Discover Torres Strait Islander Culture on Thursday Island
For those keen to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture, check out the new Cape York and Torres Strait Explorer journey. You’ll embark on a bush food and medicine walk with an Aboriginal guide near Cooktown before venturing beyond the mainland’s northernmost point to visit Thursday Island with a local Torres Strait Islander. Experience a unique overnight camping trip at the coconut-lined Chilli Beach—an ideal blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Make Waves with SUP and Sailing Experiences
Like all of Intrepid’s 18 to 35s trips, the new Real Australia experience offers plenty of flexibility over its two weeks. What makes this East Coast itinerary so special are the group activities mixed in with free time—like stand-up paddleboarding near Coffs Harbour with a guide from the Gumbaynggirr community, followed by a sailing trip. Or the two-day adventure in the Whitsundays, giving you ample time to snorkel and scuba dive in the Coral Sea.
Experience the Great Outdoors in a Jungle Lodge
Looking to escape the digital grind? On the new 18 to 35s journey from Sydney to Brisbane, you can trade digital overload for an eye-cleansing, immersive experience through Australia’s untamed landscapes—spanning from lush national parks to golden sandy beaches. Spend time in Byron Bay and Port Macquarie—two East Coast spots renowned for their natural beauty. Overnight in a rainforest lodge—a perfect blend of nature’s healing properties and adventure.
Relax with a Wine-Tasting and Hot Tub Experience in New Zealand
Intrepid’s new Premium New Zealand Encompassed tour covers a lot of ground in 18 days. For 2025, the itinerary has been expanded to include some new experiences to help you recharge. Spend a night at a Gibbston Valley vineyard, letting go of stress with a soak in the hot tub after a three-course meal and wine-tasting session. In Queenstown, cruise along Lake Whakatipu to a nearby farm and enjoy a premium barbecue dinner with your hosts.
See Wild Seals in Kaikoura
The North to South Island Adventure (and its reverse schedule, more relaxed pace, extra free time) has been revamped for 2025 in response to tourist feedback. On a newly extended 11-day itinerary, you’ll ferry across the Cook Strait and travel further south, all the way to Christchurch. This provides a unique opportunity to see wild seals and humpback whales in Kaikoura—a highlight of this adventure.
Discover what else is new in 2025 with The Goods.