Australia – Beachside Wildlife Adventure

Australia is renowned for its kaleidoscope of indigenous creatures. From kangaroos to koalas to wallabies, there is no shortage of wildlife in the Land Down Under. And it’s not just the wildlife that Australia is famous for. Miles of pristine beaches and endless amounts of year-round sunshine bless the coastline of the country.

We’ll base ourselves on the Gold Coast of Southern Queensland where white sand beaches and world-class cafes meet native wildlife and dense rainforests. It is also a place where the modern “no worries” beach culture and the millennia-old Aboriginal culture overlap. Over the course of the trip, experience both sides of Australia and take in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. For those that want to extend the adventure, continue to Sydney for an exciting post-trip extension.

Despite strict environmental regulations, the continued destruction of habitats coupled with climate change and invasive species have wreaked havoc on Australia’s unrivaled indigenous wildlife population. As a result, conservation parks have been established throughout the country to implement research, breeding and education programs which ultimately aim to preserve these fragile populations, most of which can only be found in Australia.

Over the course of the trip, you’ll lend a hand 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 infrastructure, plant trees and get a behind the scenes perspective on these curious creatures.  

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, enjoying a traditional Aboriginal welcome ceremony and sunset cruise along the river. In the afternoons, explore the rainforests of the Gold Coast, tour the quaint seaside towns of Brunswick Heads by bicycle and visit a koala conservation center.

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.

Continue on our post-trip extension to Sydney for 3 days of exploration along sandy beaches and Sydney’s iconic harbor.

During your time on the Gold Coast, you’ll be based at spacious beachside apartments walking distance to the beach, shops and cafes. 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 outdoor in-ground pool 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!