About Australia for Older Teens Program
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities of Australia on this 13-day adventure designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors. You'll travel with Travel For Teens, a consistently award-winning youth travel organization, exploring four diverse Australian destinations: Sydney, Brisbane, Moreton Island, and Cairns. This isn't a typical tourist experience—you'll eat, stay, and travel like a local, immersing yourself in authentic Australian culture while building friendships with peers from around the world.
Your journey begins in Sydney, where you'll explore the iconic Opera House, relax on famous beaches like Bondi and Manly, visit the Botanical Gardens, and experience the city's world-class fusion food scene. You'll even have the option to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views. From there, you'll fly to Brisbane and catch a high-speed ferry to Moreton Island, the world's third-largest sand island. Here, you can choose your own adventures: feed wild dolphins in their natural habitat, sand-board down enormous dunes, snorkel through shipwrecks just offshore, or simply relax on pristine beaches.
The final leg takes you to Cairns in Far North Queensland, where adventure reaches new heights. You'll spend a full day in the Kuranda Rainforest learning traditional Aboriginal skills like boomerang throwing and didgeridoo playing, while getting close to koalas and kangaroos. The highlight is snorkeling or scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef—one of the world's most incredible natural wonders—where you'll swim alongside sea turtles and explore exquisite coral ecosystems. You'll also contribute to conservation by volunteering with Reef Teach at a turtle rehabilitation center, giving back to Australia's marine environment.
Throughout the program, you'll stay in centrally located, safe, and well-supervised accommodations chosen specifically to keep you close to attractions and local culture. In Sydney, you'll be in the heart of Surry Hills; in Cairns, steps from the Esplanade; and on Moreton Island, in resort-style accommodation. All breakfasts and dinners are included, featuring authentic local cuisine from Australia's multicultural food scene—from Greek and Italian to Thai and Indian, plus adventurous options like kangaroo and crocodile for those willing to try something truly unique.
What makes this program special is the combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and expert guidance. You'll be supported by knowledgeable, engaged counselors who prioritize your safety while ensuring you have the time of your life. Past participants rave about making lifelong friendships, gaining confidence, and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime activities they never thought possible. This is more than a vacation—it's a transformative journey through one of the world's most fascinating countries, designed to challenge you, inspire you, and create memories you'll treasure forever.