Backpacker Tours, Trips & Activities Australia

Unique Australian Adventure Tours for working holiday makers

Welcome to Backpacker Tours

Backpacker Tours is a travel website for working holiday makers. The platform is filled with handpicked adventure tours, which are perfect for young backpackers on their trip down under. Search Backpacker Tours to find the best trips and travel packages. At Backpacker Tours, you’ll find bus tours and 4WD tours as well as welcome & arrival packages through to hiking tours. Whether your adventure starts in Whitsunday Islands and Fraser Island or in Melbourne and Sydney; you’ll find the right tour packages here.

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Byron Bay Backpacker Tour

1 DAY BYRON & BEYOND PRIVATE TROOPY SURF JOURNEY

1 DAY BYRON & BEYOND PRIVATE TROOPY SURF JOURNEY by Mojosurf Australia

Join Mojosurf on a Private Group Surf Journey around the beautiful and quiet Southern Byron and Ballina Shire beaches hunting the break of the day with your crew and local Mojo legend on hand. We’ll be cruising the beaches and hidden away spots in our epic Landcruiser Troop Carriers, checking out some iconic local highlights, pumping the tunes and teaching you all about the surfing culture as you get to dip your toe in the surfer lifestyle. 

Latest tour information:

Broome Backpacker Tour

10-day Broome to Darwin Kimberley tour

Price from $2,799

10-day Broome to Darwin Kimberley tour by Kimberley Off Road Tours

This tour takes you on an incredible journey through the Kimberley outback allowing you to experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you make your way along the Gibb River Road. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; we want you to feel like you are traveling with a group of mates, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Your action-packed adventure begins with the sights between Darwin and Kununurra before your exclusive Lake Argyle private island camping experience. See the world-heritage listed Bungles; stay and explore El Questro station; this region lends itself to trekking and cooling-off in the most picturesque swimming holes. You’ll continue the journey along the Gibb River Road venturing into Manning Gorge, Galvans Gorge, Bell Gorge, Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek; before arriving at our final destination, the pearling capital of Broome.

Latest tour information:

Cairns Backpacker Tour

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Cairns to Darwin)

Price from $3,199

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Cairns to Darwin) by Kimberley Off Road Tours

Come on an incredible journey through Kakadu, the Gulf country and the tropical rainforest; experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you travel along the Savannah Way. It is all about seeing the outback the way it should be seen. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; feel like you’re traveling with friends, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Departing Cairns we head west into the mountains to swim at the picturesque Josephine Falls, before continuing to Kalkani crater and the unique Undara lava tubes. Heading into the Gulf Country you visit Frys crocodile, the historic mining town of Croydon, Leichhardt Falls, Burke and Wills most northern campsite 119, Lawn Hill gorge, Echo Gorge, Hells Gate and Lorella Springs. After plenty of exploring and swimming we stop at the Southern Lost City and Butterfly gorge. We follow the Roper River to Mataranka thermal pools or Bitter Springs before a few days exploring the world heritage listed Kakadu National Park. Our final stop is a wildlife cruise before arriving in Darwin.

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Darwin Backpacker Tour

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Darwin to Cairns)

Price from $3,199

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Darwin to Cairns) by Kimberley Off Road Tours

Come on an incredible journey through Kakadu, the Gulf country and the tropical rainforest; experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you travel along the Savannah Way. It is all about seeing the outback the way it should be seen. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; feel like you’re traveling with friends, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. The adventure starts in Darwin and your first stop will be a wildlife cruise on the beautiful Corroboree Billabong before embarking on the world-heritage listed Kakadu National Park. We stop at the thermal pools of Mataranka or Bitter Springs before joining the Savannah Way. We follow the Roper River to the Southern Lost City, Butterfly Gorge, Lorella Springs, Hells Gate and Echo Gorge. We then carry on to Lawn Hill Gorge, Leichhardt Falls, and we visit the historic Burke and Wills campsite 119. After this we’ll stop to see Frys crocodile, the historic mining town of Croydon, the Udara lava tubes, Kalkani Crater and the picturesque Joesphine Falls before arriving in Cairns.

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Brisbane Backpacker Tour

15 Day Dingo Backpacker Tour: Brisbane > Cairns

Price from AUD$4,525

15 Day Dingo Backpacker Tour: Brisbane > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 15-Day Dingo Tour will send you up the coast from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping off at backpacker favourites like Noosa and Airlie Beach. He’ll also show you some unreal secret spots off the beaten track!  Go on a 4WD safari, a 2 day sailing adventure, a wildlife spotting canoeing trip and make lots of stops on the way for walks, waterfalls and of course photo ops! 

Latest tour information:

  • Budget: comfort
  • Length: 15 days
  • Group size: 24 max
  • Start: Brisbane
  • End: Cairns

Byron Bay Backpacker Tour

15 Day Roo Backpacker Tour: Byron Bay > Cairns

Price from AUD$4,695

15 Day Roo Backpacker Tour: Byron Bay > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 15-Day Roo Tour will take you from Byron Bay to Cairns. You’ll explore the world’s largest sand island on a 4WD expedition, sail through the idyllic Whitsunday Islands and get off the beaten track at an historic village in Queensland.

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Hobart Backpacker Tour

2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour

Price from AUD$395

2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour by Wild Tasmania Tours

Embark on an epic 2-Day Cradle Mountain Tour from Hobart and dive headfirst into the enchanting world of Tasmania’s natural wonders! Get ready for an adventure-packed escape that promises an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Our carefully crafted tour is your passport to the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, where you’ll strut your stuff through the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping views of Tasmania’s most splendid waterfalls, including the legendary Russel Falls. But that’s not all – buckle up for a scenic joyride through Tasmania’s highlands, where every twist and turn unveils a new breathtaking landscape.

After a day filled with exploration, rest your adventurous soul in a cozy lakeside motel overnight. Picture waking up to the serenity of Tasmania’s wilderness right at your doorstep – it’s the stuff of dreams!

This tour caters to all you thrill-seekers with an adventurous spirit, eager to uncover the secrets of Tasmania’s iconic landscapes and national parks. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, we’ve got walking options for every fitness level. And fear not, whether you’re balling on a budget or looking for a swanky stay, our accommodations are tailored to fit your style.

Get ready to make memories, break a sweat, and fall in love with the untamed beauty of Tasmania – your 2-Day Cradle Mountain adventure awaits!

Latest tour information:

  • Length: 2 days days
  • Start: Hobart

Sydney Backpacker Tour

21 Day Emu Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Cairns

Price from AUD$5,395

21 Day Emu Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 21-Day Emu Tour takes you on an epic journey up the East Coast. From Sydney to Cairns, we’ll show you all the hot spots in between, plus some hidden gems!

Latest tour information:

  • Budget: comfort
  • Length: 21 days
  • Group size: 24 max
  • Start: Sydney
  • End: Cairns

Byron Bay Backpacker Tour

3 DAY BYRON BAY BINTANGS AND BARRELS GROUP MISSION

3 DAY BYRON BAY BINTANGS AND BARRELS GROUP MISSION by Mojosurf Australia

We’re partnering with a bunch of other local legendary operators to bring the classic surf trip to you…and the beers are on us! Join us around the coast of Byron Shire for an epic and authentic Indo surf trip experience right on your doorstep! Experience boat cruises, fishing, daily Troopy surf sessions and (for the ballers), even a helicopter surf strike mission, all washed down with some ice-cold Bintangs! If this doesn’t get you frothing and kicking back Balinese-style, nothing will!

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Byron Bay Backpacker Tour

3 Day Byron Bay Surf & Stay

3 Day Byron Bay Surf & Stay by Mojosurf Australia

The Byron Bay area is known not only for its great surf waves (perfect for rippers or learners alike), but also for its amazingly laidback lifestyle and the cool surf culture. So why not stay a few days, have a few surf lessons and see what this great beach town has to offer

Latest tour information:

Yulara Backpacker Tour

3 Day Uluru Adventure ex Yulara

Price from AUD$995

3 Day Uluru Adventure ex Yulara by Adventure Tours Australia

Experience the magic of the sunburnt Australian Outback in just three days.

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Alice Springs Backpacker Tour

3 Day Uluru Adventure for Working Holiday Makers

Price from AUD$995

3 Day Uluru Adventure for Working Holiday Makers by Adventure Tours Australia

Want to see the Red Centre’s greatest natural attractions in under three days? Easy. Jump on this trip and you’ll get to admire Uluru by sunrise and sunset, explore the natural wonders of Kings Canyon – the Lost City, Amphitheatre, Garden of Eden and North and South Walls – and weave through the gigantic boulders and gullies of Kata Tjuta. Experience the heart of the Red Centre with the best guides in the business who know the culture, people and Outback like the back of their hand. Spend you days gaining a deeper understanding into the spiritual importance of Uluru and its surrounds, and your nights camping on Australia’s red earth and dining under the stars.

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Alice Springs Backpacker Tour

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Yulara)

Price from AUD$1,195

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Yulara) by Adventure Tours Australia

Want to see the Red Centre’s greatest natural attractions in less than 4 days? Easy. Jump on this trip, and you’ll get to admire Uluru by sunrise and sunset, explore the natural wonders of Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon – the Lost City, Amphitheatre, Garden of Eden and North and South Walls – and weave through the gigantic boulders and gullies of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).

Latest tour information:

Yulara Backpacker Tour

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Yulara)

Price from AUD$1,195

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Yulara) by Adventure Tours Australia

With just the right amount of time to see all of the major highlights of the Red Centre, visit the majestic Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon too. In the evening enjoy an authentic camping experience … with a soft landing. Save time and money by starting in Yulara, which is only minutes away from the Ayers Rock Airport and Uluru.

Latest tour information:

  • Budget: budget
  • Length: 4 days
  • Group size: 24 max
  • Start: Yulara
  • End: Yulara

Alice Springs / Ayres Rock Airport Backpacker Tour

3-Day Alice Springs to Darwin tour

Price from AUD$769

3-Day Alice Springs to Darwin tour by Mulgas Adventure Tours

Use Code: BPACK25 for $25 off*

Day 1 (Dinner)

Our journey begins bright and early as we head north from Alice Springs, crossing
the Tropic of Capricorn towards Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). Here, we take the
time to learn about the cultural history and the geological makeup of these unique
rock formations. You’ll have time for a short walk around this culturally significant
site. After, we move on to the town of Tennant Creek and enjoy lunch by
Tingkkarli (Lake Mary Ann). In the afternoon, we journey to the Outback’s most
famous pub, Daly Waters. We’ll spend the evening in the Territory’s coolest pub,
enjoying a great dinner and live music.

Day 2 (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, head north to Mataranka Hot Springs and take a dip in the
spectacular thermal pool. Afterwards, it’s a brief drive to Bitter Springs, where we
grab the pool noodles and float down the thermal stream. We make a stop in
Katherine for lunch, then spend the afternoon at Edith Falls in Nitmiluk National
Park. There, we’ll embark on a short hike to the top pools and enjoy a swim by the
waterfalls. Our day concludes with a drive to Adelaide River, where we’ll spend the
evening at another notable Outback Pub.

Day 3 (Breakfast)

Today, we’ll have a delightful day of swimming in Litchfield National Park. We’ll
visit Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Tolmer Falls, and Buley Rockhole. Additionally,
we’ll stop by the Magnetic and Cathedral Termite mounds. After our adventures,
we’ll head to Darwin, arriving in the late afternoon.

Latest tour information:

  • Length: 4 days

Hobart Backpacker Tour

4 Day Wild Tasmania Tour

Price from AUD$825

4 Day Wild Tasmania Tour by Wild Tasmania Tours

Jump into a 4-day adventure extravaganza departing from Hobart, where we seamlessly weave together the charms of Tasmania’s East and West coasts. This small-group tour is your ticket to an epic journey through the most jaw-dropping natural wonders the island has to offer.

Prepare to be awestruck by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park, catch your breath at the iconic Russell Falls, and then venture forth to the spellbinding Bay of Fires, where vibrant orange lichen-coated rocks dance with the turquoise Tasman Sea.

But that’s not all – feast your eyes on the postcard-perfect views at Wineglass Bay and lose yourself in the pristine beauty of Freycinet National Park, where white sands and granite peaks play a symphony of nature’s marvels.

This tour is tailor-made for the adventure seekers, those with a spirit yearning to uncover Tasmania’s iconic landscapes and national parks. Whether you’re up for a breezy stroll or a heart-pumping hike, we’ve got walking options catering to all fitness levels. And worry not, whether you’re balling on a budget or craving a plush stay, our accommodations are ready to complement your style.

If you’re itching to dive into Tasmania’s wild beauty, look no further – secure your spot now, and get ready to hop on the bus for a wild ride through Tasmania’s untamed treasures!

Latest tour information:

  • Length: 4 days days
  • Group size: 13 max
  • Start: Hobart

Alice Springs / Ayres Rock Airport Backpacker Tour

4-Day Rock-to-Rock tour

Price from AUD$769

4-Day Rock-to-Rock tour by Mulgas Adventure Tours

Use Code: BPACK25 for $25 off*

Day 1 (Dinner)

Your Outback Adventure of a Lifetime starts at 6am from Alice Springs or around
1pm from Ayers Rock (Uluru) Airport. We enjoy a fascinating road-trip to The Red
Centre, and explore Uluru with a guided walk. Relax with your group and enjoy a
spectacular Uluru sunset with a glass of bubbly. Later, rest with a hot shower and a
wholesome meal at our camp. Then it’s an unforgettable sleep under the desert stars.

Day 2 (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Start with an early breakfast before watching the sunrise over Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Hike through Valley of the winds before heading back to camp for lunch. We then
travel through the outback to Kings creek station where we enjoy a Aussie BBQ and
another night around the fire under the outback stars.

Day 3 (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Enjoy breakfast before exploring the incredible Kings Canyon where we hike
around the famous Rim Walk. Relax in the peaceful desert oasis, the Garden of
Eden. Then return to Kings Creek Station for a refreshing swim or simply relax. At
night escape to our private bush camp on Curtin Springs Station. Capture sunset
views of Mt Conner and enjoy your final night on tour, under the outback stars.

Day 4 (Breakfast)

Enjoy a relaxing start to the day before you say goodbye to all your new friends.
The tour concludes at Uluru airport around 10am. Alternatively continue to your
Alice Springs accommodation at no extra charge.

Latest tour information:

  • Length: 4 days

Perth Backpacker Tour

5 Night Perth to Exmouth Adventure

Price from AUD$1,395

5 Night Perth to Exmouth Adventure by Adventure Tours Australia

Latest tour information:

  • Budget: budget
  • Length: 6 days
  • Group size: 24 max
  • Start: Perth
  • End: Exmouth

Darwin Backpacker Tour

7-day Kakadu and Arnhem Land

Price from $2,699

7-day Kakadu and Arnhem Land by Kimberley Off Road Tours

A 7-day adventure through Kakadu National Park & Arnhem Land seeing some of the best natural sites Australia has to offer. Immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the traditions and beliefs of the aboriginal people. From Darwin, we’ll drive out to Corroboree billabong for a morning cruise before arriving in the world-famous Kakadu National Park to see two of Kakadu’s most-loved waterfalls. The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River is where an Aboriginal guide provides an insight into the local culture and mythology as well as bush survival skills. We’ll visit Arnhem Land’s Injalak Arts & Crafts Centre in Oenpelli where you’ll experience men painting and pandanus women weaving baskets. On the Cobourg Pennisula, we’ll take a boat across the water to the historic Victoria settlement. As we make our way back camp they’ll be an opportunity to make a catch for dinner! We’ll explore Garig Gunak Barlu Park by taking a visit to Smith Point Beacon, the nearby wetlands and a walk around Caiman Creek. Before arriving back on Darwin we’ll take in the sites at Mamukala Wetlands & Bird Hide and Fogg Dam.

Latest tour information:

Sydney Backpacker Tour

8 Day Koala Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Brisbane

Price from AUD$1,695

8 Day Koala Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Brisbane by Stray Australia

Our 8-Day Koala Tour is here to guide you from Sydney to Brisbane on a route like no other. Taking you into the rainforest and off the beaten track to quirky little towns, she’ll also bring you to hot spots like Byron Bay and Surfers Paradise.

Latest tour information:

  • Budget: budget
  • Length: 8 days
  • Group size: 24 max
  • Start: Sydney
  • End: Brisbane

Backpacker tours in Australia

A popular option with both domestic and international travellers, a backpacker tour gives individuals the chance to travel light and cheaply at the same time as taking in some of the best backpacker tours which the country has to offer. There are an enormous variety of travel tours out there for adventurous people who want to make memories. Accessible on a limited budget, we take a look at some of the opportunities out there to make your Australian backpacking trip one to remember.

The East Coast Tour is an absolute must!

When it comes to adventure tours, travelling some or all of Australia’s east coast is an essential! Traditionally the trip spans the coast from Melbourne right up to Cairns (although travellers can start at either end of the coast, or travel smaller sections). The route passes through three states: Victoria, New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland.

Discover Victoria

Although traditionally the East Coast tour commenced at Sydney, a growing number of people are choosing to begin their adventure in Melbourne. Possibly one of the coolest cities on the planet, Melbourne has a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe which is almost irresistible. From the iconic Flinders station, through to the free street tram, numerous parks and intriguing architecture, Melbourne makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding area. It also benefits from an enormous number of restaurants, bars and clubs, where there are plenty of employment opportunities if you’re looking to supplement your travels with some additional cash. Close to the Wilson’s Promontory National Park, it’s also near Phillip Island (if you love penguins this has to be on your bucket list) and the Yarra Valley, well-known for its impressive vineyards and superior wines.

Move northwards to Fraser Island

The classic backpacking route for East Coast devotees is along Highway 1, which circumnavigates the entire country. Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer numerous opportunities for adventure tours and travel tours. If you’re near Brisbane, why not consider an expedition into the rainforest, or a driving tour in the local area? North of Brisbane, lying off the coast, is Fraser Island. The largest sand island on the planet, it’s the only sand island which also hosts a rain forest! Listed as a World Heritage Site, a tour of Fraser Island provides the opportunity to experience a unique, stunning natural environment.

Consider a tour of the Whitsundays

Located adjacent to the Conway National Park the Whitsundays are the perfect spot to enjoy anything from a snorkelling tour through to some turtle spotting. The Whitsundays are a popular location for day trippers and diving enthusiasts, as well as a haven for wildlife. If you’re visiting Whitsundays, a trip to Whitehaven beach is essential – as famous as Bondi, Whitehaven’s stunning fusion of white sand and blue ocean makes it an idyllic option. Many people choose to fly over Heart Reef, a tiny island which is, indeed, almost perfectly heart-shaped. If sailing is your passion, the Whitsundays are a great location to enjoy as part of a mini-cruise or a day on the water. From the Whitsundays, many people continue northwards towards Cairns and the chance to visit the Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling tours around the Great Barrier Reef

The largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a location of exceptional ecological importance as well as one of the most beautiful places on earth. A snorkelling tour is the perfect opportunity to explore this exquisite underwater landscape. Brightly coloured fish dart among the coral, creating a stunning seascape that’s absolutely unmissable. With more than 900 islands and 2900 reefs, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit destination. If snorkelling isn’t your thing, why not view the coral through one of the glass-bottomed boats which offer regular tours?

Travel inland to Alice Springs, or take an Uluru tour

Although the East Coast has an enormous range of sights and experiences on offer, no backpacking trip in Australia would be complete without a journey to the interior. A popular tourist destination, Alice Springs (NT) is located within driving distance of the legendary Uluru (Ayres Rock), an impressive sandstone monolith which is of enormous cultural importance to the indigenous Australian people. Uluru tours allow visitors not only to visit the rock itself, but also to take in some of the arid scenery which forms much of inland Australia as well as trips to Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Alice Springs has plenty of attractions, including a Desert Park, reptile centre and some intriguing museums. A camping tour of these iconic locations is a great opportunity to get closer to the amazing plants and animals in the area.

Variety of backpacker tours available

The traditional image of a backpacker is that of an individual who mainly walks or uses public transport to reach their next destination. Contemporary backpackers often prefer a more diverse range of options when it comes to getting the most from their travelling. Adventure tours or travel tours are a good way of seeing more of what Australia has to offer, as well as giving access to unique experiences such as bush camping, snorkelling, sailing, off-road driving, outback tours and more. These can either be completed as trips in their own right, or as an add-on to a longer trip along the East Coast route.

An organised adventure tour can have many benefits

A package adventure tour provides the opportunity to enjoy many of the country’s most stunning areas in relative comfort. Frequently a tour includes specialist equipment and vehicles, enabling you to take part without needing to buy additional kit. Because you will be accompanied by an experienced guide, it’s possible to visit more remote and potentially dangerous locations safely. Guides also tend to have an in-depth knowledge of the local area, enabling you to find out more and get a much deeper insight into the location during your visit. If you want to get the most from your time backpacking, adding a suitable tour to your itinerary can be of real benefit.

Further reading:

Some useful information can be found at the official Tourism Australia website as well as the state and regional tourism sites. Here are just a few: