The Experience
Australia is unlike anywhere else on earth. Incredible wildlife, sunny skies, lush coastal forests and a sparkling Pacific coastline only scratches the surface of what this country has to offer. We’ll base ourselves in the natural beauty of Australia’s Gold Coast, an area blessed with miles of pristine beaches and crystal blue waters. Take a sunset cruise along the waterways, head deep into the rainforest on the hunt for waterfalls & kangaroos, enjoy a traditional Aboriginal celebration and spend an afternoon at a koala conservation center. Head out to North Stradbroke Island, the world’s second largest sand island, for two days of wildlife sighting and exploration.
A Behind-the-Scenes Wildlife Experience
Spend several afternoons with a leading wildlife conservation park participating first-hand in the center’s mission to protect Australia’s vulnerable species. This is a level of access that very few have the opportunity to experience.
Our Impact
Over the course of the trip, lend a hand and go behind-the-scenes at a local wildlife conservation park on the Gold Coast. Help the rangers care for the park’s wallabies, koalas and kangaroos as well as improve the park’s infrastructure, plant trees and get a behind the scenes perspective on these curious creatures. We’ll also learn from local rangers and conservation experts about the threats facing Australia’s magnificent indigenous wildlife, and the measures being taken to protect these unique creatures.
Where You’ll Stay
During our time on the Gold Coast, we’ll be based at spacious beachside apartments surrounded by nature. All apartments have air-conditioning and are completely self-contained with fully equipped kitchens, laundry, balconies and double or single occupancy rooms. There is an pool for the kids to play in and plenty of sunshine to relax under.
We’ll also spend two nights in charming seaside bungalows (with resident koalas) during our expedition to North Stradbroke Island. Take in stunning views of the bay and possibly spot dolphins just off the bungalow’s pier!
Itinerary Overview
Arrive to the sea and sand of Australia’s Gold Coast and unwind in your accommodation just steps from the beach. Spend the first days getting acquainted with area, enjoy a traditional Aboriginal ceremony, and cruise along the Gold Coast waterways. You will also get the rare opportunity to spend time learning about wildlife and getting hands-on with the rangers.
End the trip with two nights in seaside bungalows on North Stradbroke Island, the second largest sand island in the world. Learn to throw the boomerang and try the didgeridoo, spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild, take a kayak out into the calm sea and scout for dolphins along the island’s white sand beaches.
Your Expert Local Guides
Discover Corps’ expert family of guides around the world are by your side throughout the journey.
Sharon & Manny
Sharon and Manny are a wealth of knowledge for everything Australia. Both originally from the not-so-sunny island of England, Sharon & Manny settled in the Australian sunshine several decades ago. They can not only show you the best places to eat and experience the laid back lifestyle that Australians are known for, but have almost a second sense of finding kangaroos, wallabies and koalas in the wild.
Optional post-trip extensions
Discover Corps’ post-trip extensions allow you to extend your experience beyond the core itinerary and explore unique corners of the destination.
Traveler’s Journal
Deborah H.
Bethesda, MD
Read More Discover Corps Reviews
Rating: 5/5 stars
Dates and Prices
Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free.
$3,995 Adult
$3,695 Child
- Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
- Single Room Supplement (single room in shared enclosed apartment) = $700.
- Note: Even if you opted not to pay the SRS, if we are unable to find a suitable roommate for you then you will be required to pay the SRS at a later time
What’s Included:
- 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners (1 free evening)
- Transportation in private vehicles
- 7 nights lodging in beachfront apartment on the Gold Coast
- 2 nights lodging in North Stradbroke Island
- Volunteer project at wildlife conservation park
- All scheduled activities and excursions
- Discover Corps Guide there to inform and educate you
- $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Discover Corps pre-departure booklet
- 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline
What’s Not Included:
- Tips for Discover Corps guide and driver
- International Airfare
- Australia Visa
- $150 domestic flight supplement
Dates
Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Let us know and we’ll make it happen.
2022 Dates (Call Us for Info)
August 7-16, 2022 (Call Us for Info)
November 20-29, 2022 (Call Us for Info)
2023 Dates (Call Us for Info)
January 15-24, 2023
February 19-28, 2023
April 2-11, 2023
June 4-13, 2023
July 16-25, 2023
August 6-15, 2023
November 19-28
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Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More
Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.
Customized Private Trips
Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.