national geographic australia tour

7 Best Australia Tours to Take in 2024

These australia tours make it easier to visit the land down under in 2024..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

From the bustling streets of Sydney to the vast expanses of the Outback, adventure awaits in the Land Down Under. But with so much ground to cover, planning an Australia vacation can feel overwhelming. That’s where guided Australia tours come in. Many of the best Australian tours include a visit to the Outback, but some also offer winery tours, opportunities to dive at the Great Barrier Reef, and even the chance to get up close to koalas. These group tours make seeing the massive country easy and accessible for everyone. 

2024’s Best Small Group Tours of Australia

This year’s best Australia tours come in a variety of trip types and for different budgets, and with the help of expert guides you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips. From large group coach tours to luxury private tours that cater to your every need, these are my picks for the best tours of Australia in 2024.

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1. Aboriginal Culture and Australian Highlights Tour

If you want to come away from your Australia vacation with a deeper sense of what the country’s Aboriginal culture is like, consider the Aboriginal Culture and Australian Highlights tour from Trafalgar . The 13-day Australia tour takes you from Melbourne to Cairns with a focus on indigenous people groups. Starting in Melbourne, the experience kicks off with a walking tour of the city with an Indigenous guide. The tour continues with a few days in Uluru, where you’ll see ancient rock art, learn about dot art, take a scenic helicopter flight, and sip local wine as the sun sets.

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Day seven is a full day in Sydney, where you can explore the Opera House and enjoy an Aboriginal cultural cruise through the harbor. The adventure ends with a day at the Great Barrier Reef and a day in Cairns where you can either hop on the scenic railway or take time to explore the city. On some days, there are different options to choose from. For instance, on the third day, choose between a coastal drive or seeing tiny penguins on Phillip Island. 

• Length: 13 days
• Starting price: $7,209
• Average group size:   40 people
• More tours: 10 Best Trafalgar Tours to Take in 2024

2. Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes and the Whitsundays Tour

G adventures.

Younger travelers who are looking for a fun way to visit Australia without breaking the bank may enjoy the Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes and the Whitsundays tour from G Adventures . The 10-day tour is specifically designed for 18- to 39-year-olds. The itinerary starts in Brisbane, where you’ll kick off your Australia tour with a day exploring on your own before meeting the group leaders and fellow travelers. 

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The tour continues to Noosa, known for its beaches; and Fraser Island, where you’ll explore the only rainforest in the world that grows in sand. In Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Islands, the group will enjoy a day on a yacht and sailing along the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. The itinerary ends in Cairns for adventure sports like skydiving or white water rafting before a night out on the town. 

• Length: 10 days 
• Starting price: $1,724
• Average group size: 20 people 
• More tours: 10 Best G Adventures Tours to Take in 2024

3. Highlights of Australia: The Great Barrier Reef to Sydney Tour

Ef go ahead tours.

If you’re looking for a tour of Australia that hits both big cities and the beach towns, the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney tour from EF Go Ahead Tours hits all the highlights of Australia. The trip starts in Sydney, where you’ll take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, visit Bondi Beach, and have a free day in the city. Later in the trip you’ll fly to Cairns, which is the launch point to get to the Great Barrier Reef.

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En route to the ocean, you’ll stop at Mossman Gorge to see the overlooks and learn about life from an indigenous guide. While at the Great Barrier Reef, you can pick to see the reef from a glass-bottom boat or don a snorkel and see the colors underneath the water. The itinerary ends in Melbourne, where you’ll get a walking tour of the city and then have a day of free time before leaving Australia. 

• Length: 12 days
• Starting price: $3,449
• Average group size: 15 to 35 people

4. Wings Over Australia Tour

Abercrombie & kent.

If the budget is no consideration, go big with Abercrombie & Kent’s 13-day Wings Over Australia private luxury tour. The deluxe itinerary, which features private charter flights between all of the major destinations, starts with two days in Melbourne, where you’ll explore the city and visit a few nearby wineries for tastings.

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Then the group flies to Tasmania for a visit to a bird sanctuary, an art museum, learning about local oysters, and more. Days six through eight are spent in Uluru, where you’ll dine among the dunes and see cave paintings. Then the group moves to Hayman Island to learn first-hand about the Great Barrier Reef before ending in Sydney, where everyone will enjoy a harbor cruise and a behind-the-scenes visit to the Sydney Opera House.

• Starting price: $46,995
• Average group size: 11 people

5. The Kimberley Coast by Sea: Northwest Australia and Indonesia Tour

National geographic expeditions.

One of the most unusual and interesting Australia tours is an expedition cruise with National Geographic Expeditions. An epic 18-day trip with a price tag to match its ambitions, the Kimberley Coast by Sea: Northwest Australia and Indonesia starts in Perth, though the official sailing date isn’t until day four in Broome. Everyone in the group will board the National Geographic Orion before setting out to sea. 

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Day five is where the real adventure begins, with a day at Rowley Shoals, which is a popular diving spot to see coral reefs. Days six and seven are spent at sea navigating the Kimberly Coast. Groups then venture to Bigge Island to see the cave systems and artwork, and to search for Monkon rock wallabies. Day 14 is when the group makes landfall in Indonesia at Savu Sea Marine National Park to see whales and turtles. You’ll also get to see Komodo dragons and Pink Beach in Komodo. The trip ends with a traditional wedding ceremony and boxing match on the island of Sumbawa before heading to Denpasar to catch a flight home.

• Length: 18 days
• Starting price: $16,577
• Average group size: 102 people 

6. Australia Family: Koalas, Reef, and Rainforest Tour

Kensington tours.

Families looking to take younger kids to Australia will want to dive into the Koalas, Reef, and Rainforest private family tour from Kensington Tours. The 12-day itinerary starts in Sydney, where you can enjoy free time on your own to see everything from the harbor and Opera House to animals at the Wild Life Sydney Zoo. For more animal fun, the second day in Sydney includes a trip to the Taronga Zoo along with a tour from a zookeeper. 

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Day four is when your family will pack up and move to Hamilton Island to explore on your own or take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary water sports just off the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. The trip ends in Port Douglas as you join a marine biologist for a snorkel tour and a trip to Daintree National Park. 

• Starting price: $4,795
• Group size: Just your family (private tour)

7. Gems of the Red Center Tour

The Gems of the Red Center tour from Globus takes you to the middle of the Australian Outback, allowing you to experience the desert and Indigenous culture up close. This Australia tour starts in Alice Springs with a visit the Standley Chasm with the help of an Indigenous guide. Day three brings the real adventure as the group moves through the Outback to Kings Canyon, where domes, gorges, and sandstone walls dot the landscape. Here, the group can enjoy a morning canyon rim walk before moving to Uluru to see the Mutitjulu Waterhole and Aboriginal rock paintings. Before leaving Uluru for your journey back home, you can enjoy optional excursions like a camel ride or helicopter tour.

• Length: 6 days
• Starting price: $3,339
• Average group size: 20 people

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

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G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

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Discover the world with National Geographic Journeys

Want to dive even deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places you explore? Set foot on an enriching, hands-on adventure with the latest tours in our National Geographic Journeys Collection!

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Discover the entire collection of National Geographic Journeys

Central america, middle east.

National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures is a new line of trips for adventure-loving families in search of a meaningful way to discover the world together.

Why you should explore with us:

Unique, culturally immersive experiences.

National Geographic Journeys take you deep into the culture and history of the places you visit. Combined with G Adventures’ nearly 30-year history of community-focused small group tours, it’s a travel experience like no other.

Travel with meaning

Many of our itineraries connect you to fascinating people and projects supported by National Geographic or G Adventures, creating meaningful experiences for travellers and local people alike.

Be in the know, before you go

As you prepare for your adventure, you will receive pre-trip articles from National Geographic to get you excited about your trip. You’ll have your explorer cap on before you’re even on the plane.

Change the world

National Geographic and G Adventures believe that travel can and should be a force for good in the world. By traveling with us, you support community projects and initiatives that improve livelihoods in the places we visit. You also help further the work of National Geographic’s scientists, explorers, and educators around the world.

Get more out of your adventure

These trips feature upgraded accommodations, cozier rides, more inclusions than other G Adventures Travel Styles.

Live like, and learn from, the local people

Your adventure will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) with specialized National Geographic training and a deep, locally informed knowledge of your destination.

Take comfort in your Journey

National Geographic Journeys feature upgraded accommodations compared to other G Adventures Travel Styles. We select our accommodations based on how well they represent the unique character of your destination. Want to see where you might be staying? Take a look:

Traveller Testimonials

Get an idea of what your adventure could be like from people who have enjoyed their travels with National Geographic Journeys.

I learnt so much about Costa Rica, its history, flora and fauna. I have some amazing memories and have made some firm friends from the tour. It was excellent and, as a result, I know I will be going back to Costa Rica in the future!

Jayenne C., Explore Costa Rica

It was a wonderful experience that I have already recommended to several friends. The accommodations were great and well located. Yoko was a well-organized, helpful and knowledgeable guide.

Patricia S., Iconic Japan

AMAZING! From being able to try such a variety of experiences, learning the culture and history to meeting NOW everlasting newer friendships from this vacation. This is by far one of the best, and most enriching vacations I have ever had—for both my husband and I.

Maria L., Explore Machu Picchu

Absolutely fabulous! This was the best vacation we have ever had in that we were part of a small group of people who all love the outdoors, learning and experiencing new places, foods, culture, and best of all, people! Our CEO was fantastic! He shared so much of his beautiful homeland with us through visits to hidden gems, meeting local people, sharing time and culture with the unique and lovely people of New Zealand. We hiked, we ate, we heard, we saw, we felt, and we laughed and hugged a lot! We left a piece of our hearts in New Zealand. What we took away from all this is a lifetime of fantastic memories.

Virginia D., New Zealand Journey

This trip totally exceeded my expectations. Our CEO, Moses, and driver, Edward, were both excellent and really made the adventure everything it was. They worked really well together and were really friendly, informative and enthusiastic. The wildlife itself was superb, better than I had hoped and because of the guys' enthusiasm I found myself interested in far more than just the bigger animals. The standard of accommodation and food was excellent and I really enjoyed all the activities included in the tour. The tour felt totally authentic, and it really felt like people were welcoming of us on the basis of the positive work done in the community.

Caroline D., Tanzania Safari Experience

This trip was truly an adventure worth taking. In one short week, I came face-to-face with 13 gorillas, sprinted through a forest in pursuit of chimpanzees, watched a mother hippo protectively shield her baby from our view, and listened to a pride of lions devour a buffalo carcass at sunset. Experiences like these provide lifelong memories, and as an added bonus, I made new lifelong friends as well. After planning this trip for over a year, the experience itself lived up to — and surpassed — my expectations in so many ways.

Kelley G., Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Discovery

Great trip. I was especially happy with the National Geographic exclusives. The food we got at the Parwa Community Restaurant was one of the best we enjoyed in Peru. The visit to Parwue de la Papa was enlightening and enjoyable. The same can be said of the visits we did at Lake Titicaca — the Floating island, the Taquile Island visit and lunch hosted by the village on Luquina Peninsular. It is especially heartening and fulfilling to know that [the company] is actively contributing to the local community in helping these villages help themselves in a sustainable manner.

Wern L.C., Inca Explorer

This tour exceeded my expectations on pretty much all fronts. I was able to get pushed out of my comfort zone just enough by being in a place where the customs were different and I didn't speak the language, but at the same time I always felt safe. We were able to see the "real" Morocco in a way that other tours wouldn't have done.

Amanda R., Morocco: Sahara & Beyond

This trip was awesome. The cities, architecture, interiors, food and people were a photographer's dream. I've been to Spain before (Madrid and Barcelona), but Andalusia is truly special. The entire itinerary was great, and the exclusive experiences provided lots of insights into the destination. When I first read about learning to dance flamenco, I didn't think it would be a highlight, but it was so much fun and really made me appreciate the history, talent of the dancers and the show even more. I want to go back!

Ann-Christine R., Discover Moorish Spain

Our Travellers’ Photos

Stories from our ceos.

Get to know the passion behind the people that lead our tours in their own words.

Zuhair Z., Jordan

I love my job as a Journeys CEO for five reasons: 1. I get to meet new people I love meeting others and hearing their stories. It's so cool seeing their eyes light up while telling me what they're passionate about. 2. I get to talk about my favourite place Talking about your home , your family, and your friends — it's literally the best thing ever. Getting to share that sense of happiness and peace is the coolest thing.

Lindsey P., United States

I love leading National Geographic Journeys trips because you get to take your experience to another level that even I myself couldn’t dream up. One of my favorite parts of leading trips in North America is when I take people to the Grand Canyon. I get to experience their first sighting of the amazing layers and shear natural beauty that exists in the Wild West of Arizona.

Darlington, Zimbabwe

It’s such a diverse continent I come from. And taking travelers through it is mind and soul enriching. Whether it’s traversing through the oldest desert in the world, the Namib, walking through the jungle of the Okavango delta, the largest inland delta in the world, watching hundreds of elephants drinking in Hwange National Park, or putting the icing on the cake by showing our amazingly rich culture.

Stefano P., Italy

There was a moment in Florence last summer when I was standing there with my group next to the iconic Ponte Vecchio after showing them around the beautiful city. I started talking about the second World War in Italy and Florence specifically. Then I pulled out a piece of paper and started reading: "Our pockets were filled with odd scraps of paper on which were written the names of the sons and daughters and relatives in America to whom we had promised to write that we had seen mother or uncle or cousin in Florence

Son P., Vietnam

“Even if it doesn’t smell good, jasmine is still jasmine. Even if he isn’t elegant, a Hanoian is still a Hanoian.” My father used to recite this poem to me when I was a little boy. I will never forget what he told me about Hanoi because since I moved to this city, Hanoi simply became my second home. As a local who loves food, cultures, and meeting people, I see that many tourists are now stuck in the touristy area, which doesn't make them "really travel" to Hanoi, Vietnam. So I love getting opportunities to show people "The Real Hanoi."

Julian H., South Africa

I love leading National Geographic Journeys trips because I get to spend time with like-minded people that just love anything to do with nature. I get excited every time I see the joy in our travellers’ faces when they see their dream become a reality. Many times, people on our trips have been waiting their whole lives to come to Africa to see our beautiful land and creatures. For me it is a privilege to show them all that I can in the time I have with them. I want them to leave with a little piece of Africa in their hearts forever.

ZUHAIR Z., JORDAN

I love my job as a Journeys CEO for five reasons: 1. I get to meet new people I love meeting others and hearing their stories. It's so cool seeing their eyes light up while telling me what they're passionate about. 2. I get to talk about my favourite place Talking about your home, your family, and your friends — it's literally the best thing ever. Getting to share that sense of happiness and peace is the coolest thing. 3. I get to see others excited about being at my favourite place There's nothing quite like that feeling you get when you see that your stories are making people smile. 4. I get to walk around my favorite place for hours When you're having a rough day, a nice walk in Petra talking about how much you love its beauty is a good way to lift your mood. 5. I make a huge impact in people's lives Every tour I do, every person I meet, is an opportunity to change their life by bringing happiness and friendship forever.

I love leading National Geographic Journeys trips because you get to take your experience to another level that even I myself couldn’t dream up. One of my favorite parts of leading trips in North America is when I take people to the Grand Canyon. I get to experience their first sighting of the amazing layers and shear natural beauty that exists in the Wild West of Arizona. And then we all go behind the scenes and have a local expert explain the history and the detail that goes into the magnificent wonder of the world. I get excited each time we get to have a unique opportunity to speak to someone who studies the background and unique details that accompany our amazing National Geographic Journeys destinations.

It’s such a diverse continent I come from. And taking travelers through it is mind and soul enriching. Whether it’s traversing through the oldest desert in the world, the Namib, walking through the jungle of the Okavango delta, the largest inland delta in the world, watching hundreds of elephants drinking in Hwange National Park, or putting the icing on the cake by showing our amazingly rich culture. Sharing all this, sitting around a campfire with a beautiful night sky above us, I love to bring some of the stories travelers read into life by simply sharing all this with them.

There was a moment in Florence last summer when I was standing there with my group next to the iconic Ponte Vecchio after showing them around the beautiful city. I started talking about the second World War in Italy and Florence specifically. Then I pulled out a piece of paper and started reading: "Our pockets were filled with odd scraps of paper on which were written the names of the sons and daughters and relatives in America to whom we had promised to write that we had seen mother or uncle or cousin in Florence, that all was well, and that they were full of courage. One woman came up to us with a shy 16-year-old daughter and told us in English that she had waited to speak to the first Americans in Florence. She turned to the daughter and took two almost wilted roses and handed them to us. We have been looking for Americans to give these to, and you are the first. We are happy now." This is taken from a National Geographic published in March 1945. The words were followed by a moment of deep emotion felt by the group. For a second, it felt like we connected with those who were fighting to free the country more than 70 years ago. Moments like these are the main reason why I love leading National Geographic Journeys tours.

“Even if it doesn’t smell good, jasmine is still jasmine. Even if he isn’t elegant, a Hanoian is still a Hanoian.” My father used to recite this poem to me when I was a little boy. I will never forget what he told me about Hanoi because since I moved to this city, Hanoi simply became my second home. As a local who loves food, cultures, and meeting people, I see that many tourists are now stuck in the touristy area, which doesn't make them "really travel" to Hanoi, Vietnam. So I love getting opportunities to show people "The Real Hanoi." I like to take people to secret corners, small alleys, beautiful places, local street food places where they can take photos with real life styles of Hanoian, taste amazing local foods, or simply do Taichi or exercise with local people in the early morning. I'm proud to be a part of this beautiful city and I love having a chance to show people the real Hanoi.

I love leading National Geographic Journeys trips because I get to spend time with like-minded people that just love anything to do with nature. I get excited every time I see the joy in our travellers’ faces when they see their dream become a reality. Many times, people on our trips have been waiting their whole lives to come to Africa to see our beautiful land and creatures. For me it is a privilege to show them all that I can in the time I have with them. I want them to leave with a little piece of Africa in their hearts forever. Changing people's lives and showing them the importance and interconnectedness of nature brings me joy. A bit deep, maybe, but I do love what I do.

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Discover the best of Australia’s nature, wildlife and culture...

7 Days exploring the South West corner of WA

Orcas, Numbats & Birds of South West WA

Learn valuable tips from our expert nature photographer

Photography Workshop - Flinders Island

Nature & wildlife, conservation & citizen science, indigenous & culture, women’s only, birdwatching, active adventure,  photography & landscapes, history & fossils, why australian geographic travel.

Australian Geographic contributes 100% of its profits to the Australian Geographic Society, including its conservation and sustainability programs.

At Australian Geographic Travel, our mission is to inspire love and care for Australia’s nature, people, and places through responsible tourism.

Our off-the-beaten-track itineraries emphasise sustainable travel by featuring ethical wildlife encounters, hands on conservation projects and authentic local interactions. 

Join one of our scheduled small group tours or opt for a private, personalised adventure.

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Testimonials

Both James and Matt were great. Their knowledge and expertise were impressive as well as their willingness to help and assist when requested. Matt also managed to find the big 3 for FNQ – platypus, tree kangaroo and cassowary! Accommodation was fine and birding locations very good. Everything went according to schedule including some early morning starts. Follow travellers were friendly and provided great company. All in all, this was a very enjoyable trip and thanks to Australian Geographic for making this available.

Traveller: North Queensland – Tropical Birding Tour

John Barned

A wonderful experience in the Daintree and Atherton Tableland, enjoying spectacular scenery, birds and other wildlife. Matt was very knowledgeable, good fun and accommodating, ensuring that we saw as many species as possible and that we ate well!

Marilyn Wise

The Far North Queensland Birding Tour was excellent in all respects. Our Guide James was perfect for the job and went over and above any Guide I have experienced before. It was very difficult for him as it rained most days and at time with torrential downpours. Despite this we still managed to see and photograph most of the target species. Accommodation was very good in both Lodges and the food over the 5 days was exceptional. James's photography skills were great and he was constantly helping and advising ion how to get the best shots in the circumstances we found ourselves. I have one piece of constructive feedback. The (unadvertised) 6km walk at Shared Earth Reserve was too long for this group of Baby-boomers. We wasted 4 hours of good birding time here and there were very few birds found. My suggestion is to scrap this walk. I suggest still go here for breakfast as we did but then go back and focus on the entry road which was a very rich habitat for birds on the way in. Do it again on the way out and forget the walk. Overall a terrific Tour and highly recommended to any birding enthusiast interested in NQ birding and habitat experiences.

Graham Gall

Birding and Wildlife Conservation Journey, East Gippsland led by Martin Maderthaner from Echidna Walkabout over 4 days. We saw 10 different mammal species, 5 different reptile species and 108 different bird species. A wonderful tour in the hands of an expert guide. An expert guide is absolutely essential.

Ellis Nicholson

A huge thanks for finding the two best guides my wife and I have had in our many decades of travel. I would give both Rob and John six stars on a five star scale! Hard to imagine how either of them could have been better! A great personal guide combines knowledge of the area we are seeing with empathy and humor. Both Rob and John epitomize those traits.

Gary and Ronnie

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• National Geographic Iconic Australia & New Zealand Itinerary

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Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

Dates & Prices

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand! Welcome to Auckland ‘The City of Sails’. You may have time to explore New Zealand’s largest city before joining your travel companions in the early evening. Auckland is a fantastic city with so much to see and do. Should you want more time to explore on your own, we recommend booking pre-nights.

Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early. Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Flights to arrive into Auckland Airport at any time Accommodation: Auckland - 2 Nights (or similar)

Waiheke Island

Take an orientation walk in Auckland, one of the most multicultural cities in the Southern Hemisphere. We’ll then catch a ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island, a haven of world-class vineyards and idyllic beaches. Visit two wineries to learn about New Zealand's burgeoning wine industry and the history of viticulture in the country while sampling some of the local blends.

Meals:  Breakfast

Waitomo Caves & Rotorua

Drive to the lakeside town of Rotorua , situated over an active geothermal zone and known for its volcanic features and rich Maori heritage. Stop en-route at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves  and take a boat ride through 30 million year old caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves carved by rivers and time. Take in more than 136 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.

Rotorua sits over an active geothermal zone with bubbling mud pits and multi-coloured pools in different areas around the town. This is a fascinating region with Maori history and culture tied directly to the geothermal aspects of the land.  Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Rotorua  - 2 Nights (or similar)

A Day at Kohutapu - Whirinaki Forest

On a full-day excursion, head to the Maori-owned Kohutapu Lodge, our base for exploring New Zealand's indigenous culture. See ancient rock carvings and learn about their spiritual significance to the Maori people, both past and present. Watch as a hangi lunch is prepared the traditional way--buried in an underground pit—and enjoy the resulting feast with your Maori hosts. After lunch, take a walk through the 800-year-old podocarp trees in Whirinaki Rainforest, learning the history of the forest and spotting endemic birds and medicinal plants. Return to Rotorua for an optional evening meal or a well-deserved soak in the hot springs.

Include Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Fly to Christchurch

Enjoy time at leisure this morning before catching a flight to Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island. Take some time to explore this small city on your own or join an optional guided tour (extra cost) and see how the people of Christchurch are transforming the community of Christchurch after the devastating earthquake in 2011.

With free time in Rotorua this morning, opt to relax in one of the hot pools fed by water coming directly from the natural springs.

Meals:  Breakfast Accommodation:  Christchurch​ - 1 Night (or similar)

TranzAlpine Train Journey & Franz Josef

Travelling by train still remains one of travels most exciting experiences. This morning we board  Tranz Alpine Train that journeys between Christchurch and Greymouth. We leave Christchurch crossing the Canterbury Plains before following the Waimakariri River and traversing the spectacular  Southern Alps . before finally descending through native beech forest into Greymouth. From Greymouth we transfer to a coach and continue down the west coast to the township of  Franz Josef .

Meals:  Breakfast 

**Please be aware that if you are traveling over the Christmas and New Year period the TranzAlpine train may not be operational. Instead your CEO will drive the group through the Southern Alps on a similar route. An additional group holiday dinner will be provided as a substitute for missing the train experience. Accommodation: Franz Josef  - 2 Nights (or similar)

Explore Franz Josef

Today is a free day to explore the region around  Franz Josef . You are in the heart of the  Westland National Park , considered to be the most diverse and beautiful areas in New Zealand and the home of the Kea, a protected native parrot that thrives in the chilly environment and is infamous for its inquisitive and often destructive behaviour! If you are feeling adventurous take a Glacier Heli Hike and land on the glacier with an experienced guide to explore the towering peaks and ice formations.

There are options for various hiking adventures in the area, the most popular being trekking to view Franz Josef Glacier.

Excursions available in and around the Franz Josef area:

Franz Josef to Queenstown

Set out towards Queenstown on a drive along the South Island’s magnificent west coast. Stop at tranquil Lake Matheson, where, on a clear day, you can capture a postcard-perfect image of New Zealand’s highest peaks reflected in the water. Continue to Queenstown, pausing for short walks through the rainforest and visits to picturesque waterfalls.

Early start to travel to the picturesque Lake Matheson. When the weather is right, you can get a great photo of the Southern Alps reflected in the lake. Follow the wild West Coast Road, through the rainforest before stopping for some short walks and waterfall visits.

Meals:  Breakfast  Accommodation: Queenstown - 1 Night (or similar)

With splendid lake and mountain views, this is one of Queenstown's best hotels situated in the "capital of activities". Luxurious facilities such as a spa pool, sauna, massage service and gym will make sure every minute is well spent. An outside BBQ is available to be used for a nice group meal. The hotel includes its own breakfast area and is minutes away from many good restaurants.

Fiordland National Park and Cruise

From Queenstown we drive the scenic route to the lakeside town of Manapouri in  Fiordland National Park  a World Heritage Area.   From Manapouri we embark on an amazing cruise through the moody and mysterious  Doubtful Sound . Onboard the Fiordland Navigator experienced nature guides will provide commentary on the wildlife sightings ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights. Watch out for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and the Fiordland yellow eyebrow crested penguin.  After anchoring for the evening you will have the opportunity to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat. Dinner will be prepared by an onboard chef and served in the dining saloon. Before retiring to your private cabin (with ensuite bathroom) take time to gaze at the stars and listen to the sound of ‘silence’.  **Please Note: This tour will go to either Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound (The itinerary for this day varies in the winter: 18 May – 20 September) Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound - 1 Night (or similar)

The Fiordland Navigator is a purpose built vessel designed and perfectly suited to cruising and staying overnight in the remote Doubtful Sound. The Navigator has spacious viewing decks, dining saloon, licensed bar and observation lounge and also carries kayaks and a tender craft onboard - at your disposal. As well as having comfortable accommodation.

Fiordland National Park to Queenstown

After a hearty breakfast, we spend the morning cruising Doubtful Sound back to Deep Cove. In particular, we are on the hunt to view the resident bottlenose dolphins that patrol the fiord or the New Zealand fur seal seen basking as the sun rises warming the rocks they occupy and when in the season the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Then navigate back to  Queenstown  and spend the rest of the day at leisure in this fun-loving lakeside town, known as the adventure capital of the world.

Meals:  Breakfast  Accommodation: Queenstown  - 2 Nights (or something similar)

Queenstown at Leisure

The day is yours to relax or explore Queenstown. Choose to cruise lake Wakatipu on a historic steamer; experience a thrilling jet boat ride; or visit a local winery to sample the region’s award-winning vintages.There's plenty to see and do in Queenstown, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

This evening, enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic  220º views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below.

Recommended excursions in and around Queenstown:

Meals:  Breakfast  ​

Fly to Melbourne - Australia

Fly from Queenstown to Melbourne, Australia, and enjoy free time in the city.

Victoria's capital, Melbourne, sits on the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. It has been ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities and is a UNESCO City of Literature as well as being one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Australia. Once one of the richest cities in the world the central city is a mix of modern, Victorian and Edwardian architecture reflecting Melbourne’s early gold rush days and its ‘Boom and Bust’ era at the turn of the 20th century. Melbourne is a multicultural city with stunning gardens, spacious parks, galleries, museums, and superb cafes and restaurants.  Meals:  Breakfast Accommodation:  Melbourne  - 3 Nights (or similar)

Melbourne Foodie Walk

Embark on a food tour of Melbourne with a local author and culinary storyteller. Home to many thriving immigrant communities, Melbourne has long been considered one of Australia’s gastronomic hubs. On this foodie walk through the city’s famed laneways, we’ll experience a range of flavors and cuisines over lunch at three popular venues. Start with an Asian entree with wine; move on to an Italian restaurant for a main dish accompanied with more wine, and finish off the tour with a gelato dessert at our third stop. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Free Day Melbourne

Spend the day exploring vibrant Melbourne. Set out on an optional excursion on the Great Ocean Road, following spectacular sea cliffs along the windswept Southern Ocean. This is a popular activity so we suggest pre-booking to secure a spot. Alternatively visit some of the region’s top wineries or wander the city’s narrow cobbled lanes and alleys, discovering quirky cafés and colorful murals.

Fun Facts about Melbourne

•    Melbourne has more restaurants & cafes per head than any other city worldwide! •    Melbourne's famous tramway system is the largest outside of Europe. •    Five of Australia's tallest buildings are found in Melbourne - the tallest is the Eureka Tower at 297 metres (975 ft).

Meals:  Breakfast

Fly to Sacred Uluru

Catch a flight to Uluru, in the heart of the Australian outback. Visit the Cultural Centre of the Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and learn about the beliefs and customs of the Anangu, the area’s traditional Indigenous owners. Then take a guided walk along both the northwest and southern sides of Uluru to learn about the history of the area, hear the stories of the Anangu people and gaze upon these awe-inspiring uplifted sandstone rock formations.

Meals:  Breakfast Accommodation: Uluru - 2 Nights (or similar)

While Uluru is the most famous landmark in the park, we explore a bit further afield today. After breakfast make your way to Kata Tjuta, Uluru’s neighboring natural wonder for a morning of exploration as you walk along these ancient, red-hued landscapes.

Enjoy some free time in the afternoon before enjoying a glass of sparkling wine while watching the sunset over Uluru. Marvel at the changing colours over the desert and keep reminding yourself that yes, you really are there.

Meals: Breakfast

Field of Light & Fly to Sydney

Awaken at dawn to witness the famous Field of Light installation, the artist Bruce Munro created an art installation that becomes illuminated in the changing light. Enjoy your final moments in the heart of the outback before it’s time to pack up and head off to the airport for an afternoon flight to Sydney.

Observe the stunning display and watch the sun rise with views of Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the distance. Return to the hotel for breakfast and your final moments in the heart of the outback before it’s time to pack up and head off to the airport for an afternoon flight to Sydney. Check in to our Sydney hotel and opt to join our CEO for a dinner out on the town in one of Sydney's famous neighbourhoods.

Accommodation: Sydney - 3 Nights (or similar)

Opera House & Harbour Dinner Cruise

Take it slow with a leisurely morning, or get up early and join your CEO for a walk around the Rocks area, a waterfront neighborhood that marks the spot of the first European settlement in Australia. It also holds a spiritual significance for the area’s indigenous people. Around midmorning, circle back and meet for a private tour of the Sydney Opera House. This afternoon, step aboard a private catamaran for a sunset sail around Sydney's famous harbor. Tuck into a delicious Australian Barbecue dinner as the sun sets in the background.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sydney Free Time

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the best of Sydney. Walk the Rocks and stop by Maybe Sammy for a drink, which happens to be one of the best bars in Sydney. Take the ferry to Manly Beach or walk the Bondi Coastal walk and snap some photos. Or, spend a full day exploring the Blue Mountains on an optional excursion.

Meals:   Breakfast

Sydney to Port Douglas & Indigenous Walk

Fly to Cairns today and travel up the scenic coastal road to Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on an interpretive walk with an indigenous guide at the lush Mossman Gorge, learning about the traditional ways of life of the region’s Kuku Yalanji people. Continue to the resort town of Port Douglas, our home for the next three nights.

We catch a very early flight to ensure we make the most of the day.

Accommodations: Port Douglas - 3 Nights (or similar)

located just 100 metres from the beach and within a 15 minute walk of Port Douglas' village centre, the Mantra PortSea is perfect whether you're looking for fun, adventure or lazy days in the sun. The self contained apartments. These rooms are tastefully designed and capture the cool sea breezes and natural light, reflecting the laid back lifestyle of tropical North Queensland.

Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Snorkel

Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day catamaran tour to the Outer Reef. Immerse yourself in the largest coral reef system in the world, which teems with 1500 species of tropical fish, as well as whales, dolphins and porpoises. Hop into the warm waters off Australia's east coast and experience this marine wonderland for yourself. Lunch will be served onboard. Back in Port Douglas the evening is yours to do as you please. Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Cooya Beach Cultural Experience

Enjoy a free morning in charming Port Douglas. Stroll the town’s boutique-lined streets and idyllic beaches or head to the Sunday markets to browse the stalls. Later in the day, join your fellow travelers for an exclusive cultural experience at Cooya Beach. Meet Indigenous guides for a welcome ceremony, and get acquainted with members of the Kuku Yalanji people. Our CEO will organize an optional farewell dinner to toast your adventures down under.

Farewell from Cairns

After one last breakfast in Port Douglas, transfer back to Cairns where our tour ends at the airport mid-morning. Alternatively, extend your stay in Port Douglas.

Meals:  Breakfast 

Flights to depart from Cairns Airport after 13:00

Luggage The max luggage allowance on domestic flights within Australia is 1 checked bag (20 kgs) and 1 carry on (7 kgs) per person.

Solo Travellers No extra fee for Solo Travelers—same gender roommate will be provided or pay extra for your own space

Itinerary Variations: The provider strives to improve trip itineraries. If improvements can be made, or if circumstances beyond their control make changes necessary, the provider reserves the right to vary itineraries and to make substitutions.

Essential information you need to know before travelling to New Zealand. Download for free - simply complete the details below to download.

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• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Explore Sydney's historic Rocks district
• Cruise Sydney Harbour with a BBQ dinner
• Walk with indigenous guides in Daintree
• Witness a sunset over Uluru with wine
• Cruise through Fiordland National Park
• Introduction
• Day 1 Sydney
• Day 2 Sydney (1B, 1D)
• Day 3 Sydney/Port Douglas (1B)
• Day 4 Port Douglas (1B)
• Day 5 Port Douglas/Cairns (1B)
• Day 6 Cairns (1B)
• Day 7 Cairns/Uluru (1B)
• Day 8 Uluru (1B)
• Day 9 Uluru/Melbourne (1B)
• Day 10 Melbourne (1B)
• Day 11 Melbourne (1B, 1L)
• Day 12 Melbourne/Auckland (1B)
• Day 13 Auckland (1B)
• Day 14 Auckland/Rotorua (1B)
• Day 15 Rotorua (1B, 1D)
• Day 16 Rotorua/Christchurch (1B)
• Day 17 Christchurch/Franz Josef (1B)
• Day 18 Franz Josef (1B)
• Day 19 Franz Josef/Queenstown (1B)
• Day 20 Queenstown/Fiordland National Park (1B, 1D)
• Day 21 Fiordland National Park/Queenstown (1B)
• Day 22 Queenstown (1B)
• Day 23 Queenstown (1B)

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Operated by

National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures

Number of tours

12 to 99 years old

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TRAVEL, ENHANCED National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures are a collection of unique National Geographic tours designed to take you deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. They offer more inclusions, greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and...

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Customer Reviews

• Tour Operator National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures 4.5
• Jean · 11th January 2024 The Guides for individual tours were knowledgeable and helpful, Our overall tour guide worked hard to make sure... Show more
• Edwin · 26th May 2023 Greg Bray, our CEO, was knowledgeable fun to be with and skilled at making necessary adjustments when needed. We had... Show more
• Kathy · 7th November 2022 The tour itself was excellent. I was very frustrated however by the minimal communication. It was very difficult to... Show more

Good to Know

• Currencies $ Australian Dollar Australia $ New Zealand Dollar New Zealand

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Australia. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Australia. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 3rd November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 3rd November 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures. Please familiarise yourself with the National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Editoral Review of National Geographic Expeditions

In 1999, National Geographic launched their own tour company component: National Geographic Expeditions. Since then they have expanded to offer trips on all 7 continents in over 60 destinations. Recently they partnered with G Adventures to provide even more variety to their devoted customers.

What Makes National Geographic Expeditions Stand Out?

• Multiple modes of travel
• Expert guides and photographers
• After hours and special access to sites

With National Geographic, you can travel by small, expedition-style ships; classic train journeys; land tours; active adventures; photo tours; family-oriented trips; or private, independent expeditions based on your desires and budget.

Wherever you go with National Geographic, which has been in the tour business for 15 years, you can expect doors to open: entry to research sites, archaeological digs, private homes or special events.

Many expeditions are accompanied by a National Geographic expert or expert team who share their knowledge and passion for a region and help make each experience enriching and unforgettable.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With National Geographic Expeditions?

• Photography enthusiasts
• Adventurous minded
• Nature lovers
• History buffs
• Life long learners

National Geographic is one of those special brands that has managed to successfully straddle the line between “your grandfather loves them” and “your eighteen year old sister loves them”. They cover a wide range of topics, themes, and travel styles, with the educational aspect always prevalent yet not overbearing.

If you love feeling like an explorer and an adventurer when you travel, and love learning about the world from experts in a variety of fields, National Geographic is the perfect place for you. This is a company for those who want to dig deeper, like getting the inside story from multiple perspectives - historical, cultural, political, economic, scientific and more.

National Geographic trips are great for families, and you can choose a private tour or a family friendly group, where hands on activities will widen your children’s worldview in innumerable special ways.

National Geographic trips are also extremely popular with photographers - novice photographers will enjoy their photography-centric tours, while many dedicated hobbyists can be found on their other trip styles as well.

If you’re the kind of traveler who sacrifices the space for a pair of shoes in your suitcase for another lens or photography accessory...you’ll be right at home on a trip with National Geographic Expeditions.

In the same way that National Geographic magazine has always inspired and furthered conversation and discourse, so too do their trips. The spirit of learning about the world is intertwined in every itinerary, so if you consider yourself a lifelong student, you should definitely consider traveling with National Geographic Expeditions.

Top Destinations

National Geographic Expeditions go all around the world, and cover almost every travel style imaginable. One might think they have a favoring of the more “exotic” locations but an impressive number of United States and European tours are offered as well as farther reaching destinations. National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos are especially popular.

Regardless of where you travel, you will be sure to get off the beaten path and discover unique cultural landmarks, meet interesting people, and enjoy a sense of adventure.

Small-ship expeditions, done in conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, can take you to Antarctica, the Galapagos and points beyond. Classic train journeys include the Trans-Siberian and trains through India, Spain, and Switzerland. Active adventures might take you hiking in Bhutan or meeting Berbers in Morocco. Land tours could take you to Tanzania, Peru or the Grand Canyon.

National Geographic Expeditions Travel Style

The travel style with National Geographic Expeditions has an aura of old fashioned exploration with a modern twist.

National Geographic Expeditions is a family friendly outfit, offering a wide range of prices and trip styles. Trips vary from mid range budget to higher. Physical level is usually light to moderate.

By virtue of their longstanding presence in the world, National Geographic has a wide reaching global network to lean on for incredibly unique and authentic lodging options, knowledgeable guides, and VIP access to historical and archaeological sites.

They have several broad travel styles you can choose from:

Land Trips - National Geographic Land Trips are immersive explorations, often covering nature and wilderness points of interest such as national parks. They also dive into ancient cities and cultures, with trips exploring everything from monks in Burmese mountainside temples to the lives of nomadic Mongolian peoples. Most trips are around 11 days and physical level is between light and moderate, with some trips featuring moderately challenging hikes in various altitudes.

River Cruises - a relatively new addition, Nat Geo now offers around 7 river cruises in Europe covering the Danube, Rhine, and Douro. Currently they also have 1 river cruise in Asia, along the Irrawaddy. These trips are typically between 7 - 11 days and feature wine tasting, history tours, and very light physical activity.

Private Expeditions - If you and your family, significant other, or a few close friends are looking for a more intimate travel experience than a group of strangers, Private Expeditions are a great way to travel. These trips are customizable, and can be crafted to perfectly suit your interests and dates.

Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the trade from real-world photographers and improve your skills.

Train Trips - Travel was revolutionized with the implementation of the railroad, allowing people to travel in what was then a rapid pace from destination to destination. Today this ideal has been flipped on its head, and train travel is a leisurely paced excursion allowing time to relax and appreciate the slower meandering through beautiful countrysides. National Geographic train trips cover the classics, such as the Trans-Siberian railway and the Rocky Mountain railroad. Accommodations are comfortable, around a premium level, with options to upgrade.

Active Expeditions - For those who enjoy a bit more of an adrenaline pumping and active travel experience, National Geographic also has trips for you. These trips feature multiple active outings, such as kayaking, hiking, and caving. Expect to explore the outdoors covering unique natural phenomena and gaining insight into how and why the landscape has been shaped the way it has. These trips also feature cultural insights, just to a lesser extent.

Family Expeditions - National Geographic is the perfect company to travel with when you have curious and adventurous youngsters eager to see the world. They will learn about other cultures, people, food, nature and wildlife from experts with “cool jobs” that might even inspire lifelong interests and perhaps influence a career. These trips are specifically designed to be hands on, allowing everyone to get involved and learn about how things work.

Private Jet Trips - For a luxurious and more lengthy travel experience, nothing beats a Private Jet tour. A dedicated team will be with you, and you’ll experience all the best that National Geographic has to offer from local guides to premiere accommodation. These trips are in a very high budget range, but if it’s in your wheelhouse - it’s a superb way to travel and cover a lot of ground.

Journeys - Part of a partnership with G Adventures, these trips are adventurous and immersive small group excursions imbued with the spirit of National Geographic. The best of two top travel worlds!

Why Choose a Tour  With National Geographic Expeditions?

When you travel with National Geographic you are participating in and contributing to a spectacular legacy. Over the years National Geographic has cultivated a reputation for being about cultural exploration, scientific advancement, and broadening perspectives.

Their travel experiences are perfect for anyone wishing to get back to the roots of what adventurous, experiential travel really means and enjoy discovering the world from multiple angles.

Really one of the best parts about traveling on a tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the sheer breadth of knowledge, personal and professional experience their guides bring to the table. They help provide richly detailed context, historical information, and dive into the details of local life, by showing and doing as well as explaining. You the traveler will have the true experience of getting to know a place from the inside out.

If that wasn’t enough of a reason, proceeds from your trip price go towards supporting National Geographic’s ongoing nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.

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About the company.

National Geographic Expeditions span the globe and are designed to reflect our travelers' broad spectrum of interests, from small-ship expeditions and classic train journeys to photography workshops and family adventures. When you travel with us, you'll enjoy boundless opportunities to be surrounded by natural wonders and exotic wildlife, to explore celebrated archaeological sites, to learn about different cultures and share in local traditions. A National Geographic expert or expert team accompanies each expedition, sharing their knowledge and passion for a region and making each experience enriching and unforgettable.

An Extraordinary Legacy of Exploration

National Geographic Expeditions, the travel program of the National Geographic Society, was founded on the same belief in the importance of exploration that distinguishes the Society's 125-year history. Launched in 1999, National Geographic Expeditions now operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 60 destinations.

Since its founding in 1888, the Society has developed incredible resources—from its network of experts, contacts, and Society-sponsored researchers all over the globe, to the top-tier editorial staff of National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler magazines, and the books, maps, and film and television divisions. National Geographic Expeditions taps these resources to create unique and authentic expeditions to fascinating parts of the world.

As part of the National Geographic Travel group, National Geographic Expeditions aims to fulfill the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Adventures

National Geographic Adventures are unique, active itineraries for intrepid travelers that feature spectacular places, cultural interaction, and physical challenge: the perfect mix for an unforgettable adventure. Trek through some of the world's most legendary mountain ranges and veer far off the beaten path, discovering wild landscapes by foot, kayak, horseback, or camel. Each adventure has a designated activity level—from Easy to Ultimate Challenge, and you'll have the option to take it easy or push your limits on a harder hike throughout most trips. Your group will never be larger than 16 travelers, and you'll explore in the company of top guides, enjoying adventures that are both physically active and culturally rewarding.

National Geographic Student Expeditions

National Geographic Student Expeditions offer active summer travel experiences for high school students in some of the world's most amazing places. With the guidance of dynamic trip leaders and top National Geographic experts, students explore their interests, build new skills, and experience new landscapes and cultures firsthand. Each type of program—expedition, field workshop, community service trip, and photo workshop—is designed to educate and inspire, combining adventure, discovery, and cultural immersion. Photo workshops are led by a National Geographic photographer and include instruction and daily photo shoots. Students in our community service programs live in a village and work with community members on a variety of service projects. On each expedition and field workshop, students get involved in a unique, hands-on project that allows them to delve deeper into a specific topic—such as photography, wildlife and conservation, filmmaking, or archaeology—and further engage with the places they visit.

National Geographic Difference

Travel that’s tailored to your interests: Whether you're a budding photographer, a natural history enthusiast, a parent looking for a great family trip, or a traveler seeking an active adventure, you'll find an array of opportunities that fit your passions and interests.

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UTIs are rising fast—and the cause could be in your refrigerator

As cases of urinary tract infections grow, infections are also getting harder to treat with commonly used antibiotics.

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are on the rise—and they may be becoming more dangerous. The overall disease burden   associated with UTIs   has increased by more than 68 percent between 1990 and 2019. At the same time, the bacteria that cause UTIs have developed resistance to common drugs.

Usually, UTIs are thought of as more of a painful nuisance rather than dangerous or fatal. But for an elderly patient or someone with multiple medical conditions, the antibiotics that fight the infection can be essential. Failing to get these antibiotics contributes to the deaths of   hundreds of thousands   of people every year globally. Even when they   aren't deadly, the   more than 400 million   annual worldwide UTI cases significantly strain limited medical resources.  

"We know UTIs are a tremendous cause of morbidity and even mortality, but they are also a huge burden on the U.S. healthcare system—contributing to well over $2 billion annually in healthcare costs," says Michelle Van Kuiken , a urologist and a urogynecologist   at the University of California, San Francisco.

Working to ease this burden, scientists have been seeking to identify and understand lesser-known contributing factors. One culprit may come as a surprise: meat contaminated by Escherichia coli bacteria .  

What are UTIs and how dangerous are they?    

UTIs   can start in any part of the urinary system and can affect the kidneys, bloodstream, and uterus, but they most commonly infect the bladder "with symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency to urinate (sometimes despite having an empty bladder), and burning during urination," says Craig Comiter, a urologist at Stanford University. Cramping, fever, malodor, and blood in the urine can also be signs   of a bladder infection.    

UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract—something that can occur during sexual activity, because of a genetic predisposition, or due to poor hygiene practices such as not wiping properly.    

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UTIs are the most common infection treated outside of hospitals in the United States, affecting   some 50-60 percent   of women during their lifetime. Roughly a quarter of women also report repeat infections within six months.

While UTIs can happen to anyone, they are about   30 times more common   in women because females have shorter urethras that are closer in proximity to the anus—a common source of bacteria. Broken down, "the groups at most risk for infections are sexually active women, elderly women, and immunosuppressed men and women," says Comiter.  

When UTIs only affect the bladder, they aren't considered dangerous and usually resolve without treatment—though antibiotics are frequently prescribed to speed the healing process up from weeks to days. When these infections spread to the kidneys, bloodstream, or to different areas of the reproductive system, however, they can lead to serious complications such as blood poisoning, sepsis, kidney damage, or kidney failure.  

When left untreated, "a very small percentage of these cases can even be life-threatening," explains Jacob Lazarus, an infectious disease physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and a bacterial cell biologist at Harvard Medical School.  

Why are the number of UTIs increasing?

The increasing number of UTI cases are due to several factors, one of which is a burgeoning population. "As the population increases, we expect more UTIs and more [of the disease burden associated with] UTIs because there are more people," says Lazarus.

On top of that, some of the conditions associated with UTIs, such as kidney stones and type 2 diabetes, are   also on the rise . And a   high number   of teens and adults are sexually active. "In otherwise healthy women, sexual activity is the number one contributor to developing a UTI," says Van Kuiken.    

The global population is also getting older. "Because UTIs are more common in seniors, their prevalence is increasing as the population ages," says Comiter.    

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Some antibiotics are no longer as effective. That's as concerning as it sounds.

Cindy Liu , a microbiologist and the chief medical officer at the Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, cites   another compelling factor behind the rising numbers of more dangerous infections:   an increase in antibiotic-resistant UTIs . "Without changing how we use our antibiotics, we are on track to have fewer options for treating bladder, kidney, and urosepsis infections," she says.  

The part meat plays

Meat consumption plays a part in all this in two distinct ways: by introducing infection-causing bacteria to the urethra, and because many of the antibiotics introduced in meat sources can end up increasing resistance to the medications that could kill the infection once it begins.    

Healthy farm animals in the U.S. and elsewhere often receive antibiotics for disease protection, a practice known to drive antibiotic resistance . Comiter cites "the overuse of these antibiotics in animal husbandry" as one significant reason more and more people are developing resistance to the antibiotics used to treat UTIs.

"Eating meat that has been heavily treated with antibiotics may be contributing to increasing rates of antibiotic resistance as the human microbiome is being influenced by meat consumption," echoes Van Kuiken. "This does not mean that if you eat meat, you are going to get a UTI, but it could increase the likelihood that you may end up colonized with a multi-drug resistant organism."

Drug-resistant or not, E. coli from meat can colonize your gut and spread to your urinary tract. This can occur in women after the contaminated meat passes through the digestive system and is excreted in close proximity to the vaginal wall, where the bacteria has only a short distance to travel between the anus and the entrance of the urethra.  

While scientists have   long known   this can happen, they're learning that it likely happens more frequently than previously suspected. A 2023 study estimates that contaminated meat causes nearly half a million UTIs in the United States annually—a small fraction of the more than eight million UTI-related healthcare visits in the country each year, but enough to merit concern.  

Especially so because "30 to 70 percent of our retail meat products have   been shown to   be contaminated with E. coli ," says Liu, who co-authored the 2023 research.  

Such bacteria are usually killed in the cooking process before being ingested, she explains, so many of these infections are likely stemming from behaviors related to food preparation. "Unless you are extremely careful,   you contaminate your sink, kitchen surfaces, your hands, and your raw foods whenever you handle contaminated meat products," says Liu.

From those places, the bacteria can proliferate, potentially coming into contact with the food you end up consuming.

How to avoid UTIs

Avoiding a UTI—foodborne or otherwise—begins with good hygiene.

Because of the contamination danger, one important step is to   take precautions   when handling any meat products—specifically, chicken, turkey, and pork as they are more commonly associated with E. coli -related infections. Safe handling practices included washing hands   frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, cleaning and sanitizing food preparation areas and utensils after each use, and cooking meat to a safe temperature.  

Liu says you can also reduce your exposure to drug-resistant E. coli by choosing to buy meats that are labeled as "USDA Organic," "Raised Without Antibiotics," "Animal Welfare Approved," "American Grassfed," or "No Antibiotics Ever."  

To avoid other causes of urinary tract infections, Comiter suggests frequent handwashing, wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom, drinking adequate amounts of water, and urinating after sex as "efficacious ways to minimize the risk of infection."  

When it comes to avoiding the worst outcomes of UTIs, he says, it's best to see your physician if you notice any concerning   symptoms of infection   or if symptoms seem to worsen. "If there is a fever or changes in mental status—which is more common in the elderly,” he explains, “then a more serious infection may be occurring, which may require hospitalization and a longer course of treatment.”  

With proper precautions and care, Lazarus notes, the worst outcomes of urinary tract infections can often be avoided: "UTIs are quite treatable if diagnosed early."

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