Solo-ish Down-Under

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand! After taking your included arrival transfer to the hotel, join your fellow solo-ish travellers for a welcome meeting. Then get hands on with a cooking class! Alongside your new mates, cook up a fresh and delicious Kiwi meal while getting to know the people you're travelling with.

Additional Information: Make sure to arrive no later than 2:00 pm as to not miss your local cooking class.

ACTIVITY: Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. New Zealand is famous for having extremely fresh and local ingredients in their dishes. Use these beautiful ingredients to make an amazing meal of Ika Mata, coconut milk ceviche, and Horopito roasted Lamb Rump, then sit down with your fellow solo-ish travellers and enjoy the feast!

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards.

After grabbing your first Kiwi breakfast, join your CEO for a guided walk up to the Mt Eden Summit. This area is incredibly significant to Maori people. The views of Auckland at the top are incredible-so don't forget to take some photos. Later, make your way south to Rotorua where a lunch stop at Eat Street, a local block of popular food stalls and restaurants. In the later afternoon, join your fellow Solo-ish travel mates and board a boat to cross Lake Rotoiti. Together we'll relax lakeside in hot springs, nestled within the bush. A pretty awesome day to enjoy Rotorua and to get to know your group.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Take a water taxi across Lake Rotoiti to the geothermal pools. Jump between the cold lake water and the hot springs, walk through the bush that engulfs the spring pools and grab a beer or coffee from the cafe onsite.

ACTIVITY: Join your CEO for a trek up Mt Eden, or Maungawhau, which means ‘mountain of the whau tree’. This area was one of the largest and most elaborate Māori settlements in the region. At the top, enjoy spectacular 360 views over Auckland.

Together we head to the Maori-owned Kohutapu Lodge, to explore New Zealand's indigenous culture on this full day excursion. Learn how a hangi lunch is prepared in an underground pit, the traditional way, and enjoy the feast with your Maori hosts. Learn about traditional eel traps and be welcomed into a traditiona marae. Walk through the 800-year-old podocarp trees in the Whirinaki Rainforest to learn about the history of the forest and spot endemic birds and medicinal plants. Today's adventure is one of New Zealand's most authentic and community-based Indigenous programs, and will surely stand out as a highlight of your Solo-ish Adventure.

ACTIVITY: Travel to Kohutapu Lodge, a social enterprise owned by a local Maori family who are making a difference in their local community through community-driven initiatives. Led by your Maori guide, start the dat at Lake Aniwhenua Domain and be welcomed onto tribal lands by your guide. Watch as the guide sets the traditional eel traps, a method still being used today. Next, witness the laying of a ground cooked hangi that you will have the opportunity to taste later in the day. Continue with your Maori guide and enjoy a number of additional activities, all based around the community and what may be happening the day of your visit. Finally indulge in a delicious hangi lunch-the very same you watched be put underground to cook. After a special surprise moment with your hosts, conclude the day in Whirinaki rainforest- a Jurassic Podocarp forest- where you will be led by your Maori guide to discover more about the Maori culture and learn about the history of the forest. Spend a final few moments bathed in the forest’s sights and smells while indulging in a cup of hot kawakawa tea.

A full day free gives you the opportunity to explore this unique town how you want. With seemingly endless options, choose to visit some hot springs, go white water rafting or explore from the treetops on a Rotorua Canopy Tour.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a free day to explore this lakeside adventure town.

This morning we drive from Rotorua to Waitomo to see the magical glow worms illuminate the caves. Ride a boat through the water filled caves, and as the sunlight fades, see how the bright blue glow brightens from the silk worms hanging from the ceiling. After, drive to Auckland for the night, our last evening on the North Island.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a peaceful 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.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Together we fly to New Zealand's South Island this morning. After arriving, sit down for a group lunch in Christchurch before driving to Kaikoura. In the evening, visit the giant and adorable fur seals that live on the peninsula.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Stop to experience a close encounter with the many southern fur seals lying about on rocks just off the highway.

Kaikoura is one if the best places in all of New Zealand to see wildlife. Spend today however you wish, but of course we recommend trying to see some of these amazing animals in the wild. Opt to go on a Giant Sperm Whale watching tour or out for a tour in hopes to swim with the Dusky Dolphins.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Spend today at leisure in the seaside town of Kaikoura.

Drive to Hokitika, a town nudged between the Tasman Sea to the west and the Hokitika River to the south. Full of beautiful nature, wildlife and a history of ship wrecks, gold and green stone miners, Hokitika is not to be missed. The drive takes about 5 hours in total, but we'll make some pitstops along the way in notable towns like Reefton and Greymouth. After arrival, enjoy free time to explore the town.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon in Hokitika.

Hike the remarkable Hokitika Gorge, crossing the suspension bridge and admiring the incredibly blue water. Then drive to Franz Josef, and hike through the rain forest of Franz Josef with views of the beautiful glacier.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Hike the short and easy trek through the Franz Josef rainforest with views of the glacier and snow covered mountains.

ACTIVITY: Visit the crystal blue water of Hokitika Gorge. Hike through the bush and look for the rare blue mushroom, walk across the suspension bridge over the beautiful water and admire the incredible beauty of the South Island.

A free day today in Franz Josef calls for adventure. Opt to take a scenic helicopter flight up to the impressive glacier, or kayak on Lake Mapourika. Or choose to join the Guided Heli Hike, taking a helicopter to the glacier and hiking through the snow capped mountains and over the bright blue glacier.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Spend today however you'd like in Franz Josef.

Drive with your fellow solo-ish travellers to the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. After arrival, settle in and enjoy an evening stroll in this picturesque lakeside town.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Today is your Me Day, which means today is all about me... well you! With so much to do in Queenstown, opt to spend today exploring the adventure capital however you so wish. Or choose to join your CEO and other solo-ish travellers to ride the famous Queenstown gondola. Ride to the top of the mountain and take in the beautiful view of the lake and mountain peaks. Then tonight, choose to join your CEO for a final group dinner. This may be an early dinner because we have an early morning tomorrow, but come together for a bite and a drink before our final day together.

ACTIVITY: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for an incredible activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

Wake early for a visit to one of New Zealand's most spectacular destinations on a day trip to Fiordland National Park. Drive from Queenstown, board a boat and cruise between the breathtaking mountain slopes, cascades and sea. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and rainbows made by the waterfalls. After the boat ride, drive back to Queenstown and enjoy one last free evening in Queenstown.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Cruise through stunning Fiordland National Park, one of the most untouched, remote places in the world. Depending on the departure, the cruise will be in either Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound – two of the most stunning regions within the park. Marvel at the steep cliff walls and cascading waterfalls, and keep an eye out for area wildlife: dolphins, penguins, seals, and a variety of birds.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Say goodbye to New Zealand today as you fly to Australia and continue your Solo-ish adventures. You'll meet some new Solo-ish mates who will be joining the trip in Australia at a welcome meeting in Melbourne.

You'll say goodbye to your Kiwi CEO at the Queenstown airport and meet your new Australian CEO at your welcome meeting in Melbourne this evening.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Today, get to know your follow Solo-ish travellers, CEO and the city of Melbourne with a full day immersion into this vibrant city. Start at the Queen Victoria Markets. Your CEO will point out some dishes that are likely unfamiliar to you and dig in and sample a few. Multiculturalism is king in Melbourne, so expect to try dishes with origins in Turkey, Greece, Malaysia or Vietnam. Continue your day with a cooking class in the heart of Melbourne CBD's Little Italy. Dive head first into Australian-Italian cuisine and cook up some pizza pies alongside your new travel mates. After the delicious feast, join your CEO for a tour of Melbourne's laneway street art.

ACTIVITY: Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Melbourne’s vibrant food scene reflects its rich multicultural heritage, blending flavors from around the world. From Italian pasta in Carlton to Vietnamese pho in Richmond, the city offers an array of global cuisines, making it a culinary haven that celebrates diversity. Join your Solo-ish travel mates for a pizza making class in the heart of Melbourne's Little Italy. Make your favorite pie as you get to know your travel mates. Then sit down together and enjoy the meal!

ACTIVITY: Admire Melbourne CBD through its unique Street Art. Wander through alleyways on a tour to discover some of the most interesting outdoor galleries.

ACTIVITY: Visit the largest market in the state of Victoria. With hundreds of vendors, from food, to handicrafts and thrifted treasures, its easy to spend hours here.

When we say one epic day- we do mean one.epic.day. On a full day trip to French Island, join your CEO on an off roading tour through the national park. French Island National park is home to Victoria's healthiest and most abundant wild koala population. With beautiful beaches, rocky coastline, and protected mangroves as the backdrop, join your local guides for an incredible adventure trying to spot koalas, long-nosed potaroos and potentially the incredibly rare bandicoots. End the day with an incredible G Adventures-style surprise.

ACTIVITY: With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. Take the ferry to the beautiful French Island National Park, an island just south of Melbourne. Enjoy a 4WD adventure through this remote island to spot koalas and check out incredible views.

Board a flight bound for Yulara, the gateway to Uluru and the Red Centre. Together with your Solo-ish mates and CEO, spend your epic G Day exploring the Australian outback, starting first with Kata Tjuta National Park and the Walpa Gorge walk. Watch the sunset bow behind Uluru before making your way to the tented camp. Enjoy an outdoor meal cooked at camp with lots of local ingredients and some bonding time under the stars with your fellow Solo-ish friends.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the worlds coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to 11. Walk into Walpa Gorge where the sheer faces of the dome extend hundreds of meters above you. The gorge itself is a natural creek that carves its way between the two tallest domes of Kata Tjuta. In the evening, enjoy 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.

Rise early this morning and catch the breathtaking sunrise over Uluru, Australia's most iconic indigenous landmark. This morning, explore Uluru on foot on a guided walk through some of the most culturally significant areas of the site. These sacred spaces are some of the oldest on the planet, and understanding the interpretation behind them makes them even more impactful. In the afternoon, drive to Kings Canyon overland, to your next tented camp in the bush.

ACTIVITY: Get up early, grab a coffee and watch the reddish hues of massive Uluru come to life as the sun rises.

ACTIVITY: Take a walk in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to explore the beautiful, red, domed rocks that comprise the site. While Uluru is the most famous landmark in the park, we explore a bit further afield to enjoy this stunning landscape.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

In the cool desert morning, head out for an early hike throughout Kings Canyon. Choose between the harder 3 hour Rim hike and a more approachable 1 hour option. The Rim walk is a 6km walk along the upper rim of Kings Canyon. The most difficult part of the hike is the very beginning with a 500 step ascent, but the landscapes and views you are rewarded with are more than worth the effort. You won't even remember the effort it took to get up there. (Sort of!) If you prefer to take it easy, enjoy a 2km hike through canyon valley. In the afternoon, rest your legs on the drive to Alice Springs.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to the top of Anzac Hill to see panoramic views of Alice Springs and a memorial for Australian veterans.

ACTIVITY: HIke through beautiful Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park on this walk that visits the natural amphitheatre, the North and South walls, and the Garden of Eden.

Fly from Alice Springs to Sydney on a morning flight. Arrive to Sydney in the afternoon and enjoy free time to settle in or explore. Opt to visit Spice Alley with your CEO and other hungry solo-ish mates for an Asian inspired dinner in this cool and unique spot.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Join your CEO as you climb aboard the local ferry and travel from Sydney to Manly Beach. Manly is one of Australia's most famous beaches, which is quite the praise for a giant island nation. With world class surfing, beautiful water and lined with pine trees, you'll quickly learn why its so popular amongst locals and travelers alike. Take a surf class, relax on the beach, grab some fish n chips and ice cream or take the easy coastal walk to Shelly Beach. Return to Sydney CBD this evening for a dinner together out on the town.

ACTIVITY: Board the ferry and travel from Sydney to the famed Manly beach, just a little over an hour north of the city.

FREE TIME: Spend the afternoon enjoying Manly Beach however you'd like.

Spend today in Sydney however you'd like. It is your Me Day after all! Opt to join your CEO and other fellow Solo-ish travellers for a guided kayaking adventure in Sydney Harbor or choose to enjoy some solo time. Opt to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, take a tour of the Sydney Opera House or whip through the bay on a Jet Boat ride.

ACTIVITY: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for an incredible activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

Leave the city behind and fly north to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This afternoon, have a chance to explore Kuranda Village tucked away in Kuranda National Park. Do some shopping in the local market and visit the beautiful gardens. Then ride the Skyrail down towards Cairns. Pass over the top of the tropical rainforest, admire the incredible view and makes stops at a waterfall and other incredible lookout points.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Visit Kuranda town and take some time to explore the markets and gardens. Then, settle into a comfortable 6 seat gondola for a ride with a spectacular view. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway passes over a canopy of one of Australia's tropical rainforests, so close to the tree tops it's as if you could reach out and touch the leaves. Stop and get off at Barron Falls and Red Peaks to admire the forrest, falls and the greenery of Kuranda National Park.

A free day in Cairns means one thing for most people, an adventure to the Great Barrier Reef! Book a tour out to sea to snorkel or scuba dive through the biggest coral reef system in the entire world. In the evening, opt to join your fellow Solo-ish travellers for one last hoorah together.

FREE TIME: Spend the full day free in Cairns and at the Great Barrier Reef.

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish friends and depart at any time.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.