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Australia

Australia: Seven Wonders

16 days | Ages 13-18 | Summer 2026 | Fully Supervised | 4.9 on GoOverseas | International flights not included

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Travel This Program in the Future
Travel from urban cities to the Outback and see more of Australia in two weeks than many do in a lifetime. After a stop in Brisbane, fly to Cairns—the adventure capital of Australia and the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef—where you can snorkel in a revered aquatic landscape. Then visit the Daintree, where the rainforest meets the reef. In the Outback, hike through canyons, swim in natural springs, explore Kata Tjuta, see iconic Uluru, and learn about Aboriginal culture. Bid Australia farewell among the landmarks of Sydney, including the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Students love snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, sunrise Camel Ride and Sydney

Program Tuition

$11,995

Excluding flights.
Financial aid and scholarships available.

Summer sessions typically fill by March

No departures scheduled

Scott Ingram

Scott Ingram

Director of Admissions

At Rustic since 2018

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 16-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Depart for Australia!

Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) where you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Australia. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight.
2

In Transit

Today is lost as you cross the international dateline, but don’t worry. You’ll get it back on your way home!
3

Welcome to Australia!

Arrive at Sydney Airport (SYD) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Make sure you look out the window as you land into Sydney and catch an aerial glimpse of the famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Once you have arrived you will head to your accommodation to settle in after a long travel day. Stay with 5-6 students in dormitory-style accommodation, separated by gender. Join the group for an orientation discussion.
4

Service in Sydney

Participate in an exciting, full day of service. Learn about the key social issues of the city of Sydney and how you can make a positive impact. Partnering with Our Big Kitchen, test your cooking skills by preparing meals for refugee communities and the homeless in Sydney. Join another community service project in the afternoon, which our Community Impact Manager will identify based on the current needs of our service partners. This could involve anything from planting trees in one of Sydney's National Parks, assisting in the classroom at a local school, or even providing social interaction for local elderly residents.
5

Explore Sydney's Sights

Explore Australia’s most famous city. Start with the spectacular Port Jackson, then walk through the famous Rocks District, admire Sydney Harbour Bridge, and ponder the Opera House. Cruise through the harbor to the seaside suburb of Manly and experience its well-known surf shops and beautiful beach. Head back to the city and admire the sunset from the ferry. Enjoy your last taste of Sydney before moving onto the next phase of your Aussie adventure tomorrow.
6

Fly to Uluru

Travel to Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the center of Australia. Discover the enormity of the country and the desolation of its central deserts. Head out to see the cultural center and explore the different walks around the base of Uluru, which spans nearly six miles. Marvel at Uluru, knowing that you’re witnessing one of the world’s largest monoliths. At sunset, watch it change color and as the daylight disappears. The brightness of the Outback night skies will be a sight you’ll never forget. Spend tonight at a local youth hostel with shared rooms and private and/or shared bathrooms with hot water and flushing toilets.
7

Sunrise Camel Walk, Kata Tjuta Walk, then Drive to Kings Canyon

Start the day with an unforgettable sunrise camel walk. Finish the morning walking through the Valley of the Winds in Kata Tjuta, another rock formation famous for its spectacular domes. The sunset here can be as equally impressive as Uluru itself. Road trip through the Outback and make your way through a land that has been looked after by indigenous Australians for more than 60,000 years. Driving through the desert, keep an eye out for wild camels as you approach Kings Canyon. Spend the next two nights camping in safari tents with permanent beds and shared bathrooms. You'll stay at King Creek Station, a cattle ranch where they also catch and export wild camels! Join your group for a mid-program reflection where you will begin to reflect on what you've experienced and learned so far.
8

Hike Kings Canyon and Try Bush Tucker

The Red Centre is famous for its red sand and stunning Outback landscapes. Hike around the rim of Kings Canyon, a truly magnificent part of Australia. On your way around the canyon, pass the tropical pools of the Garden of Eden and the beehive rock formations called the Lost City. Be sure to stop and take in the scenery—Outback views don’t get much better than this! Have you ever wondered what would you eat if you were to get lost in the Australian desert? This afternoon, try the local food or bush tucker. Take a tour with an indigenous Australian and learn all there is to know about Aboriginal culture! Make your way back to camp for some hot chocolate and marshmallows around the campfire.
9

Fly to Cairns

Drive back to Uluru and enjoy the Outback sunrise one more time. Say goodbye to the Red Centre and catch a flight to Cairns; home to the world renowned Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest get ready to be blown away! You will spend the next 2 nights at a youth hostel in Cairns. Shared rooms with private and/or shared bathrooms with hot water and flushing toilets.
10

Traditional Crafts and Service

Spend the morning visiting Kuranda Markets for some traditional and unconventional souvenir shopping. The rest of the day is spent working at a wallaby rescue center. Work with a team of local volunteers to plant trees, build enclosures, paint and learn about the Agile Wallaby. These beautiful creatures are threatened by housing developments and deforestation, driving wallabies out of their natural habitat. Our partners are working hard to rescue and relocate these furry friends, so you will be helping a great cause!
11

Great Barrier Reef

Sail out to the magical Great Barrier Reef. With the world’s largest reef system as your playground, there’s no telling what you might see. Snorkel at two different sites during the day, giving you ample opportunity to spot fish, turtles, and reef sharks. Still wondering what you saw down there? The team of marine experts on board will help you identify the species and teach you all about the reef system, which will be an experience you’ll never forget.
12

Mossman Gorge and Daintree Forest

Travel north along the coast to the magnificent Mossman Gorge. Be welcomed by local Kuku Yulanji indegenous people. Continue across the Daintree River and immerse yourself in the sounds of the rainforest, from the whistling of the birds to the gushing sound sound of the rain and waterfalls.
13

Where Rainforest Meets Reef

Head out to the inner reef on a boat to snorkel with turtles! Continue exploring the underwater world, then play afternoon games on the beach in Cape Tribulation where the reef meets the rainforest.
14

Rainforest Service

Visit our local service partner and help maintain the Daintree Forest. Partnering with Rainforest Trust, your service project will be a combination of collecting seeds, removing poinsonous weeds, planting trees, and learning about all the different plants and animals that make this place so special. Keep your eyes open in case a cassowary decides to show up! Relax after service and enjoy some ice cream made from local tropical fruits.
15

Jungle Swing

Test your bravery by riding on a high-speed jungle swing over the water and treetops. After you catch your breath, travel back to Cairns and take an afternoon flight to Brisbane. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
16

Goodbye, Australia!

Your program leaders will take you to the airport for your flight home or to your next Rustic destination. If you're continuing on to another Rustic Pathways adventure in Australia, you'll transition between programs by spending the day on Australia’s famous Gold Coast with other students and leaders also joining new programs. If you're returning home to the United States or traveling on to another country, your program leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you reflect on your adventure in Australia.

Total: 16 calendar days / 15 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

7:1 Student-to-Leader Ratio

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Gender-Separated

Rooms with staff on site

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

Australia

What Do Parents Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

Students join a chaperoned group flight from a U.S. gateway airport. A Rustic Pathways Flight Leader travels with the group. International students arrange independent flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?

Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all families, and Rustic Pathways offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Explore scholarships and financial aid

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who's supervising my child?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can I reach my child?

Yes. Students can call, text, or WhatsApp during free time. Parents can reach Rustic Pathways’ 24/7 emergency line at any time.

How will I know they're okay?

Parents receive daily photo updates throughout the program from staff on the ground.

What is the phone/device policy?

Students may bring phones but cannot use them during group activities or meals. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group and how old are the participants?

Groups are typically 12-20 students per session. Students are ages 14-18, with most being 15-17.

Can international (non-U.S.) students join this program?

Yes. Students from 50+ countries join Rustic Pathways programs each year. International students book their own flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

Do students come with friends, or on their own?

Most students travel solo without knowing anyone. Program Leaders run ice-breakers on day one, and friendships form quickly. Friends are welcome to enroll together.

What is the accommodation like?

Students stay in locally operated lodging with shared rooms accommodating 2-4 students. Accommodations include private bathrooms and common areas.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment.

Program Details

Will my child have unsupervised time?

Students have structured independence during free-time blocks with staff always nearby. There is no unsupervised time in public areas.

Can you accommodate dietary needs & food allergies?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies are accommodated with advance notice. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment.

How much spending money?

$150-200 recommended for souvenirs and incidentals. Tipping is included in the program fee.

Do we need a visa?

Visa requirements vary by passport and destination. Contact a Rustic Pathways travel advisor for guidance specific to your student’s nationality.

Support

What if my child gets homesick?

Homesickness is common in the first few days. Rustic Pathways staff are trained to support students through it. Read more about managing homesickness

Do you support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ approach to inclusion

What Should Parents Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.

Australia offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.

Meals: All meals are included. Local cuisine is featured throughout the program. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice.

What is the refund policy?
View terms & conditions

Included:

  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support

Not included:

  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

Australia Oceania 2026
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