intrepid tours south australia

Intrepid Travel SA

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South Australia Outback Adventure

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 10 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 15-99 yrs
• max group size 12
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-36739

• Starts Adelaide, Australia
• Ends Adelaide, Australia
• Watch the night sky come alive as you enjoy a campfire dinner and learn about the stories and traditions of the First Nations Adnyamathanha people who are the traditional custodians of the Flinders Ranges.
• Enjoy a subterranean stay in Coober Pedy, the opal capital of Australia, in underground accommodation which is cool, comfortable and unique to this part of the South Australian outback.
• Soak up the scenic beauty of the Clare Valley, one of Australia’s most famous wine regions, and sample Rieslings and other fine wines.
• Drive into the remote South Australian Outback and bounce along the famous Oodnadatta Track to William Creek where you can enjoy a cold beer and check out the unique "museum" of memorabilia across the street.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Country Needs People. Donations help them support Indigenous land and sea management in Australia. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
• Day 1: Adelaide / Port Pirie / Port Augusta
• Day 2: Woomera / Coober Pedy
• Day 3: Coober Pedy
• Day 4: Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park / William Creek
• Day 5: Oodnadatta Track / Marree
• Day 6: Farina / Iga Warta
• Day 7: Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park / Iga Warta
• Day 8: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound
• Day 9: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound
• Day 10: Clare Valley / Adelaide
• Hotel (1 night), Cabin (2 nights), Underground hotel (2 nights), Tents or Cabins with shared facilities (2 nights), Resort (2 nights)
• 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
• Private Vehicle
• An expert tour leader
• Woomera - Lake Hart Rest Area
• Woomera - Heritage Museum & Visitor Centre
• Coober Pedy - Josephine's Gallery & Kangaroo Orphanage
• Coober Pedy - Underground Home, Church & Historic Mine Visit
• Coober Pedy - Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park & Dingo Fence
• Marree - Leader-led Local History Walk
• Stuarts Creek - Wabma Kadarbu Mound Spring Conservation Park
• Lake Eyre - Picnic Lunch
• Iga Warta - Cultural Cookout Dinner & Campfire
• Farina - Restoration Project
• Iga Warta - Aboriginal Community Stay
• Iga Warta - Adnyamathanha Cultural Activities & Bush Foods Lunch
• Iga Warta - Adnyamathanha Cultural Activities
• Wilpena Pound - Welcome to Country by Adnyamathanha Local
• Wilpena Pound - Bushwalk
• Nilpena Ediacara National Park - Guided Tour
• Clare Valley - Wine Tasting
• Any international flights to/from Adelaide are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this South Australia Outback Adventure tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
• Protected Travel within your own bubble.
• Professional Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.
• Privacy Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
• Earn USD 85+ in travel credits.
• Best price guaranteed.
• No credit card or booking fees.
• 100% financial protection.
• Carbon neutral tours.
• 25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
• Read more reasons to book with Bookmundi less Read less

No additional cancellation fees apply for this South Australia Outback Adventure tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 19 August 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 19 August 2024, a deposit of 400 USD is required to confirm the tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

South Australia Outback Adventure tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this South Australia Outback Adventure tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• This trip travels to the remote Outback of South Australia. There will be extended periods of time with no phone reception. Choices of where to eat will be limited and not all dietary needs may be able to be met. Road conditions may be affected by weather such as rain, extreme heat or wind particularly from Coober Pedy onwards, and on the Oodnadatta track. Our leaders will check forward conditions in Coober Pedy and make alternative arrangements if the road conditions are not safe for our vehicle to continue. Safety will always come first. This does mean that at times groups will not be able to complete the itinerary as planned. For example, we may need to backtrack from Coober Pedy to Port Augusta and travel from there into the Flinders Ranges. Please also make sure you have access to your emergency funds in case this is needed.
• This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It's all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
• Departures during summer months can expect extreme heat. You will need to be well prepared with sun protection, including wearing light, long sleeves and carry at least 2 litres of water at all times when out exploring. Our vehicles are air conditioned, but even this may struggle at higher temperatures. In hotter months we may have earlier or adjusted departure times to beat the heat, rest at our accommodation during the hottest hours of the day and then explore again in the late afternoon/early evening. Choose your departure date carefully to make sure you are aware of the conditions. Some sites, restaurants, cafes, tours and attractions may be closed during the off season summer months.
• If you are keen to keep exploring South Australia's highlights, you might like to consider our 2-day Kangaroo Island Short Break Adventure or 5-day Kangaroo Island Adventure. Search trip codes PZAI-C and PZSI on our website.
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory on departures after 1st January 2023. Nonetheless, all travellers are strongly advised to be vaccinated as a safety measure to protect themselves and others on the tour. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination are required.
• Also, proof of vaccination may still be required at specific entry points or by the airlines. Therefore, please make sure to check all the travel requirements carefully before travelling.

• Important information
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• Itinerary disclaimer
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Australia Tours & Holidays

With bright blue skies, immense red deserts, sun-bronzed beaches and vast green wetlands, Australia is big, bold and full of contrasts.

Come and experience this extraordinary country that bursts with kaleidoscopic cultures and constantly changing colours. From snorkelling among jewel-bright fish on the Great Barrier Reef and discovering the wildlife and wilderness of the west coast to walking through the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide and exploring Uluru and nearby Kata Tjuta , an (Intrepid) in-depth Australia tour offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a part of a family or a solo adventurer, a nature-lover or a sun worshipper, a food fanatic or a wine connoisseur, Australia can’t wait to welcome you. 

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Learn more about Australia

Best time to visit australia.

Being such a large place, Australia has a wide range of climates, so all year round, there is somewhere great to visit. 

Summer (December to February) can get very hot but is perfect for beach-going and other outdoor activities. In the far north, it is also the wet season, which can get quite humid, and some beaches may be closed due to jellyfish or 'stingers'.

Winter (June to August) is pleasant and dry in the north but can get quite cold in the south, especially in Tasmania and Victoria, where snowfall is common.

Spring and autumn are great times to visit Australia as the weather is milder but still warm enough for swimming in northern areas. 

Regardless of daytime temperatures, nights can get very cold in the desert areas of Central and Western Australia, so prepare accordingly.

The main school holiday period is from Christmas to late January and is considered the peak travel time within Australia; expect popular tourist spots to be crowded during this time.

Read more about the best time to visit Australia

From large malls and boutique shopping strips to weekend arts and crafts markets and vintage shops, Australia is a top place to shop. Shopping in Australia may not be cheap, but there are plenty of unique finds and original souvenirs to bring home. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import certain items back into your home country. New Zealand, for example, has strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Australia

1. First Nation art

The quality of Aboriginal art is excellent in the Top End and Central and Western Australia. Be sure to buy from reputable galleries and organisations to ensure authenticity and fair prices for artists. Community-run organisations are typically the better choice.

If you’re looking for one, Coober Pedy has the best quality and variety on offer.

These precious gems are plentiful in Broome due to the booming pearling industry.

4. Modern art

Melbourne and Hobart are modern art and craft hot spots, making them great places to pick up one-of-a-kind mementos.

Top 10 places to see in Australia

Nothing will prepare you for seeing Australia's most famous landmark for the first time. An important part of Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, this ancient monolith is a photographer's dream as it changes colours with the sun; from dazzling orange to dusty purple.

Combine First Nations' culture and the magnificence of Australia's desert wonders on a 6 day Red Centre & Uluru Explorer tour.

2. Great Barrier Reef

See the world's largest reef system - so big it can be seen from outer space! This World Heritage site, just off the coast of Queensland, is home to whales, dolphins, turtles, sharks, colourful coral and more than 1,500 species of fish. Go scuba diving or snorkelling to explore this incredible underwater world.

See the beauty of the reef and its residents on our 5 day Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree tour.

3. Twelve Apostles

Although there are actually only eight 'Apostles', these spectacular limestone rock stacks are a popular tourist spot along Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Formed by erosion that began 10-20 million years ago, the stacks rise majestically from the churning Southern Ocean. Hit the boardwalks, tracks and viewing areas for spectacular views.

Set off on a Twelve Apostles journey when you 7 day Hike the Great Ocean Walk.

4. Kakadu National Park

This region is a place of breathtaking beauty and incredible biodiversity. Steeped in Dreamtime history, Kakadu nurtures a staggering variety of landscapes and wildlife. Venture deep into the wilderness and discover gushing waterfalls, deep gorges, shimmering waterholes and rocky outcrops adorned with 20,000-year-old art.

Combine the best of history, wildlife, culture and beauty while venturing through a 6 day Top End & Kakadu Explorer tour.

5. Sydney Opera House

Set against a backdrop of that famous bridge that spans the sparkling harbour, the Opera House is one of Australia's most iconic sights. Those familiar sails, adorned with more than a million white tiles, host thousands of events and performances each year. Catch a show to admire the ornate interior, or take in the spectacular view from a ferry.

Climb the Opera House steps or tour the harbour as you start an exciting 18 day East Coast Encompassed tour.

6. Kimberley

From deep gorges and dusty Outback roads and lush rainforests to idyllic billabongs, the landscape of this beautiful region is truly enchanting. A trip to the Kimberly can be as active or relaxing as you wish - hike past the strange 'beehive' domes of the Bungle Bungle Ranges, explore underground caves at Tunnel Creek or simply relax on white sand beaches.

Be swept away by the beauty of the Kimberley on a 11 day Wild Kimberley Overland tour.

7. Daintree

With verdant tropical rainforest stretching to white, sandy beaches, the Daintree is nothing short of spectacular. This complex ecosystem in Far North Queensland is home to a prolific amount of wildlife, including frogs, reptiles, bats and butterflies, as well as the highest concentration of primitive plant species in the world. Australia's largest rainforest is a true natural wonder just waiting to be explored.

Walk among the diverse ecosystems of the Daintree Rainforests while on our 5 day Queensland Daintree Explorer tour.

8. Wineglass Bay

With its white sand, crystal-clear water and distinct crescent shape, Wineglass Bay on Tasmania's gorgeous Freycinet Peninsula is a pristine paradise. It's easy to see why it's often voted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world! Hike a trail to the summit overlooking the bay for breathtaking views, or descend to the beach and set up camp. Go snorkelling to discover colourful fish and perhaps some playful dolphins.

Stroll by the waters of Wineglass Bay on a nature-lovers 6 day Tasmania Adventure tour.

9. Clare Valley

This beautiful wine-producing region is famed for its delicious local produce, picturesque scenery, friendly people and, of course, its fabulous wine. Explore back roads lined with vines and go wine tasting to sample the very best drops this region has to offer.

Cycle and sample your way through one of Australia's oldest wine regions on our 6 day Cycle South Australia's Wine Regions tour.

10. Blue Mountains

Covering over one million hectares, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is rich in verdant rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, looming forests and an abundance of wildlife. Greet the iconic Three Sisters and wander the boardwalks to soak up this breathtaking area of Australian bush.

Walk, trek, and discover the beauty of the rugged New South Wales region home to the Blue Mountains on a 3 day Best of the Blue Mountains from Sydney.

Top destinations to visit in Australia

1. ikara-flinders ranges national park.

Discover Ikara with an Adnyamathanha guide on a tour that shines a light on Adnyamathanha history, uncovers the park’s more recent past, and looks towards the future.

Wander through Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park on our 7 day Flinders Ranges Explorer tour or on our 7 day Walk South Australia's Flinders Ranges tour .

2. Arnhem Land

Explore the rugged wilderness of Arnhem Land , where Australia’s First Nations people have lived for thousands of years. Share Dreamtime stories, learn how to gather local food and create traditional paintings.

Experience Arnhem Land for yourself on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour tour.

3. The West Coast

The West Coast of Australia certainly feels like the Final Frontier. Perhaps visit the red rock gorges of Karijini National Park, take in a camel ride on Cable Beach, or unwind among the vineyards of  Margaret River. 

Marvel at the beauty of the West Coast on our 8 day Hike Western Australia's Cape to Cape Track.

4. Tropical North Queensland

Join an Aboriginal painting class at Janbal Gallery and hear East Coast Kuku Yalanji Dreamtime stories about the animals, environment and language of the Indigenous rainforest people from Mossman and the Daintree rainforest.

Dive into Tropical North Queensland on our 7 day Queensland Coast Adventure or on our 8 day Brisbane to Cairns Adventure.

5. The Kimberley

While Broome could keep you occupied for days, it’s really the Kimberley’s natural beauty that lures you in. Away from the stretches of Cable Beach, you find a region that rapidly unrolls into a world of dense rainforest, underground caves and boab-dotted horizons straight out of Africa. 

Discover the beauty of the Kimberley's on our 5 day Kimberley Family Holiday.

Kakadu National Park is packed with billabongs, waterfalls, strange rock formations and all types of native wildlife. ‘Roos bounce through the bushland, dingoes are spotted along rocky outcrops, dugongs wallow off the coast, and, despite the name, crocs patrol the waters of Alligator River. 

Explore Kakadu National Park on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour or on our 4 day Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Adventure.

7. The Red Centre

Also known as Central Australia, the Red Centre is where Uluru rises from the landscape in all its beauty. But there’s far more to this region than the iconic rock of the Outback. Discover Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and its 36 stunning red domes; Kings Canyon , with its natural amphitheatre and the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uncover the magic of the Red Centre on our 6 day Premium Red Centre & Uluru tour or on our 4 day Uluru & Kings Canyon Family Adventure.

8. The Outback

Experience the untamed beauty of Outback Australia, hear tales of the Aboriginal Dreaming with a First Nations guide, cross incredible scenery in a 4WD, and walk among a carpet of wildflowers in the Flinders Ranges. 

Explore the Outback on our 4 day Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon tour or on our 10 day West Coast & Karijini Overland Adventure.

9. K'gari (Fraser Island)

K'gari (Fraser Island) isn’t just the largest sand island in Queensland, it’s the largest one in the world. Explore the rugged headlands, silica sand beaches, lush rainforests hugging the shore and freshwater lakes that lay hidden throughout this World Heritage-listed island.  

Experience K'gari for yourself on our 14 day Sydney to Cairns Adventure.

10. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a winding coastal route of sandstone cliffs and dense rainforest hinterland that stretches all the way from Torquay in the East to Allansford in the West. While the region is famous for its Twelve Apostles, there are plenty of local secrets to be discovered if you’re willing to take the time.

Drive along the Great Ocean Road on our 6 day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Adventure.

11. Tasmania

This island state turns heads thanks to its thriving gallery and gastronomy scene, plus its bounty of natural wonders. Boasting some of Australia’s finest beaches, mistiest mountaintops, loneliest patches of wilderness and most elusive animals, Tasmania is a nature lover’s wonderland.

Discover Tasmania on our 6 day Highlights of Tasmania tour , on our 4 day Hobert & Southern Tasmania Explorer tour or on our 6 day Trek the Cradle Mountain Overland Track.

See the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, take a dip at Bondi Beach, explore the historic Rocks area and discover everything this cosmopolitan city has to offer.

Marvel at Sydney's iconic sights on our 7 day Sydney to Brisbane Adventure.

13. South Australian outback

Explore the South Australian outback at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary on a 4WD tour that takes in science, education and conservation and showcases this incredible and unique wilderness area.

Delve into the South Australian wilderness on our 10 day South Australia Outback Adventure or on our Outback South Australia & Eyre Peninsula tour .

14. The Great Barrier Reef

Be inspired by the beauty of the world’s largest coral reef – The Great Barrier Reef. Go snorkelling in the warm waters with exotic sea creatures and colourful coral.

Go swimming on our 12 day Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery.

15. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world's most ancient rainforest, the Daintree in Far North Queensland , with a local family who lives in a privately owned part of it.

Experience the serenity of the Daintree Rainforest on our 5 day Daintree Family Holiday or on our 8 day Daintree & Cape Tribulation Adventure.

Geography and environment

The continent of Australia is known for being one of the flattest, hottest and driest places on earth, but despite this, there is an astounding variety of terrains and environments on this island nation. While large areas of Australia are covered in desert, there are also tropical rainforests, alpine snowfields, dense bushland, beaches, gorges, lakes, and rivers to be found.

Australia’s national parks are home to many species of birds and mammals not found in the wild anywhere else in the world, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and wombats.

Boasting many stunning white sand beaches, Australia has a coastline like none other. From busy Bondi to surfing icons like Bell’s Beach and Tasmania’s stunning Wineglass Bay , there are endless places to swim, surf, snorkel and paddle. 

Despite Australia’s large landmass, most people tend to live in urban, coastal cities. Faster-paced cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne hold much of the population, as do regional satellite cities such as Albury, Dubbo, Bunbury, Townsville, Newcastle and Geelong.

Outback towns have a unique flavour and a distinct way of life; things are slower here and due to smaller populations, space is plentiful, with most locals relying on agriculture for a living. Venturing away from the city to visit the Outback and rural areas of Australia is highly recommended as it gives travellers the chance to see a different side of Australia. Traverse the northern regions of Australia's iconic outback landscape on a 11 day Darwin to Broome Outback tour.

Culture and customs

With a strong history of immigration, modern Australia is made up of people from many different cultural backgrounds. This mix makes Australia an endlessly fascinating place to visit as travellers will be exposed to a variety of different customs and cultures during their stay. From the ancient, spiritual ways of the First Nations population to the wide array of faiths, foods and festivals on display in the big cities, Australia is a cultural melting pot. 

Despite the differences, there are many things that unify the people of Australia. Sports, in particular cricket, soccer and football (Australian Rules), are played and watched by the masses, irrespective of age, race, gender or income. Large sporting events like the AFL Grand Final, Melbourne Cup Day and the Boxing Day Cricket Test have universal appeal for Australians. 

Australians relish public holidays, with national and state holidays offering locals time to relax with friends and family over a barbecue or picnic. Making use of Australia’s natural environment is also paramount during this time, with outdoor activities like bushwalking, swimming at the beach or lazing in the park popular with locals.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways of experiencing a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

Australia is a land that has been built by immigrants, and these multicultural influences are evident in the wide array of food available. In the cities, it’s possible to find world-class Vietnamese, Turkish, Italian, Greek, Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Indian restaurants, as well as excellent gastro-pub fare. Head to the Outback, and you’ll find authentic ' bush tucker ', simple campfire meals and sizzling barbecues.

Food to try in Australia

1. Fresh seafood

With such an impressive coastline, it’s no wonder fresh oysters, prawns, mussels and ‘balmain bugs’ are devoured by locals and savoured by visitors. For those on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with eating fish and chips on the beach.

Australia creates some of the best wines in the world at South Australia’s Barossa Valley , Western Australia’s Margaret River and New South Wales’s Hunter Valley .

Whether you’re downing a can of VB in Victoria or sipping micro-brewed ale in Sydney, sharing a beer with mates is a social experience not to be missed when in Australia

4. Hot pies

An Australian classic – savoury meat pies (or vegetable pies for vegetarians) are best eaten with tomato sauce and are easily found served in city cafes, country bakeries and football matches around Australia.

Read more about Australia's must-try foods

Festivals and events

Anxiously anticipated by many – the Australian Rules Football Grand Final is a great time to be in Melbourne. Tickets are notoriously scarce but pubs, clubs and backyards overflow with people watching the ‘Big Game’ and celebrating (or commiserating) afterwards.

Tasting Australia 

Feeling hungry? Tasting Australia is a food festival that takes place once a year throughout South Australia and showcases the culture, producers and regions that make this state such a delicious destination to explore. 

Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney lights up the harbour city with a Festival of Ideas featuring inspirational speakers, performances by local and international artists and light installations that transform buildings and cultural icons into colourful works of art. 

Margaret River Pro

See your favourite professional surfers at work against the backdrop of the beautiful Margaret River region in South Australia at the Margaret River Pro.

State of Origin

Turn your Brisbane, Perth or Sydney adventure up a notch by experiencing a State of Origin game. 

Cairns Ecofiesta

Switch your Cairns holiday to sustainable mode at Cairns Ecofiesta: an eco-conscious festival that celebrates and supports the environment through eco workshops, live music, local produce markets, and vegetarian food options. Suitable for the whole family, this festival aims to both encourage a sustainable lifestyle and leave you with plenty of eco-inspo so you can start your very own planet-protecting journey. 

Alice Springs Beanie Festival 

Celebrate the very best of Aboriginal talent, creativity, and skill at the Alice Springs Beanie Festival. Bursting with silly and colourful handmade beanies, this festival aims to encourage and appreciate the work of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people with various textile workshops and demonstrations on sight to help you understand and learn how to make local arts and crafts. 

Barunga Festival

Barunga is a closed community in the Northern Territory that you usually need a permit to enter, but for three days they open up to the world to celebrate life in Katherine's remote Indigenous communities. With a jam-packed program featuring storytelling circles, art and bush medicine workshops, and some of Australia's best First Nations musicians, Barunga Festival is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the vibrant community.

Darwin Festival 

Promising to give you a real taste of the Northern Territory, the Darwin Festival brings together a myriad of performances, shows, concerts, and exhibitions for you to enjoy. From comedy shows to art galleries, this bubbling festival will have you wanting to come back again and again and again.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Australia Day

• King's Birthday

Please note dates of  Australia's public holidays  may vary

Similar destinations

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New Zealand

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Further reading

Australia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Australia – excluding passport holders from  New Zealand  who can enter Australia without a visa.

Passport holders from 34 countries are eligible to apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA/601), which permits multiple entry to Australia for up to three months within a 12-month period. 

All other foreign nationals will need to apply for a visitor visa (600). This permits stays of up to 12 months with the option to apply for single or multiple entry.

Learn more information about Australian tourist visas on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website

Last updated: 28 June 2023

What's the weather like in Australia?

The weather in Australia varies depending on where in the country you are. For example, winter in Victoria and Tasmania tends to be very cold (around the 10 °C -15 ° C mark), whereas, if you head further north to the Northern Territory and Queensland, temperatures in the winter months are much nicer (usually around 18 ° C-25 ° C).

This pattern also applies to summer, where the southern states tend to experience lower temperatures (but still warm), while the northern and western states are warmer, with temperatures reaching as high as 40 ° C+.

Is tipping customary in Australia?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Australia; however, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is common practice. Restaurant staff, taxi drivers and other service workers welcome tips for good service.

What is the internet access like in Australia?

Internet access is widely available in most parts of Australia, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots commonly found in urban areas. Please note that internet access won’t be available in Outback and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Australia?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in most parts of Australia, especially in large cities and urban areas. Remote, rural and mountainous places may have limited to no coverage, so be aware of this before venturing away from the city. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving your home country if you want to use your mobile, or you can purchase a sim card when you arrive. The provider that will have coverage in the majority of Australia is Telstra, secondly Optus and then Vodafone. A hot tip – when you are in remote areas and don’t have mobile phone signal, turn your phone to flight mode which will conserve battery and prevent your phone from using data trying to search for internet signal.

What are the toilets like in Australia?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Australia, and many of our campsites have proper facilities with flushing toilets. In remote areas such as the Kimberley, there is no established plumbing and therefore we have installed ‘drop toilets’. Some campsites we use are managed by the National Parks and have either eco-toilets or drop toilets, most of which are maintained regularly.

Can I drink the water in Australia?

Drinking water from taps in Australia is considered safe, unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Australia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by shops, restaurants and cafes in Australia. Smaller establishments may only accept cash or require a minimum purchase for credit card use, so be sure to carry enough cash for smaller purchases.

What is ATM access like in Australia?

ATMs are commonly found in large cities and regional towns in Australia. ATM access will be very limited in remote areas so be aware of this before heading into national parks or the Outback.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Who are the First Nations people of Australia?

There are two distinct groups of First Nations peoples in Australia - Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people - both of which have lived on this land for centuries. While there are only two Indigenous groups, there's actually a wide range of language and location communities that are made up of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people including the Adnyamathanha people of the Flinders Ranges (Aboriginal Australians) and the Badu people from the Near Western Group (Torres Strait Islander people). 

Is Australia LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Australia is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers thanks to its anti-discrimination laws, diverse population and welcoming culture. There are many LGBTQIA+ friendly neighbourhoods and establishments across the country, as well as a wide variety of Pride events. 

What's the transport like in Australia?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. Depending on which trip you're on while in Australia, you may even find yourself travelling overland. 

Overland tours

Australia is a big place – like, huge.   Overland tours   involve a lot of time on the road covering long distances, and sometimes the landscape can be pretty barren, so bring a book or some tunes to keep you company.

What's the accommodation like in Australia?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Australia you may find yourself staying in a:

Our lodge accommodation is located outside major cities, such as near the entrance to a National Park, and has its own amenities such as a restaurant or dining room. Lodges are comfortable places to stay and offer a good night's rest after a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Australia. 

Permanent Tented Campsite

There's no need to put up your tent when you spend the night in a Permanent Tented Campsite. You'll have a roof over your head and will bunk down on sleeper mats on the ground or stretcher (camp) beds, with access to a toilet/shower block. Tent sizes can vary depending on the trip you're on and the location you're visiting. Some of our permanent tented campsites are a little bit fancy, others are very simple. Sometimes you'll be sharing a tent with others in your group. 

Our bush camping experiences are as diverse as Australia itself. Some offer swag camping under cover or under the twinkling stars. You could be sleeping in a tent with access to simple toilet or shower amenities or you might not have access to a shower at all. However, the scenery at these magical spots makes it worth going without a bath for a day or so. Sometimes a trip has participatory camping where everyone pitches in to help. Other times, a staff member is on hand to look after things like cooking. 

We provide accommodation at a wide variety of hotels around Australia. Some are quite upmarket, others less so, but all of them offer a comfortable stay and ensuite facilities. 

We use hostels on some trips which means your bed could be in a twin room or a shared dorm room. Some of these rooms come with their own facilities while others have share facilities. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Australia support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Australia directly support our foundation partners, Blue Carbon Lab, Greening Australia and WWF-Australia. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Blue Carbon Lab

Blue Carbon Lab is helping to mitigate climate change by restoring and protecting blue carbon in coastal wetlands. We've already lost 65% of wetlands globally, and multiple impacts, including urban development, agriculture, industry, and more, threaten these crucial blue-carbon ecosystems. Donations from our trips help Blue Carbon Lab to restore the natural coastal wetland areas in Victoria, Australia. 

Find out more or make a donation   

Greening Australia

Greening Australia is taking action to rebuild resilient ecosystems across Australia, from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the cool island ark of Tasmania. Donations from our trips help them tackle Australia's complex environmental challenges through large on-ground restoration projects and innovative research initiatives that help scale their impact.  

Find out more or make a donation

Country Needs People

Country Needs People support Indigenous land and sea management in Australia. Donations help them empower Indigenous communities to rehabilitate and protect places of significance on land and sea using traditional knowledge paired with modern technology.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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New Zealand Southern Pioneer

• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Christchurch
• Day 2 Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Ohau
• Day 3 Mackenzie Country / Queenstown
• Day 4 Queenstown
• Day 5 Queenstown / Wanaka
• Day 6 Wanaka
• Day 7 Wanaka / Franz Josef
• Day 8 Franz Josef
• Day 9 Hokitika / Greymouth / Christchurch
• Day 10 Christchurch

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Sustainability initiatives.

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Namfon · 11th June 2024 I really enjoyed and had a good vocation with this tour. Our guide (Robbie John) was great taking care of us. The... Show more Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• BRIAN · 4th June 2024 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 Amazing locations and our guide Maurice was an outstanding host / guide who made every location and every... Show more Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• jane · 27th May 2024 Guide was great - friendly, organised, knowledgeable. Back office support was really bad eg. not contacting hotels... Show more Review collected by Intrepid Travel

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency $ New Zealand Dollar New Zealand

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

• 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 22nd August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 22nd August 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. 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 60 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 Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" 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 Intrepid Travel. Please familiarise yourself with the Intrepid Travel 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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