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Australia Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ australia tours for singles / solo travelers with 581 reviews.

• Wine tasting

The Great Ocean Road Melbourne - Adelaide 4 day 3 night Tour

Just to let you know how much we enjoyed our Great Ocean Road trip with Michael our tour guide and driver. He was excellent and everything you could wish for in a director of operations. The scenery on the trip was stunning and we also thoroughly enjoyed the included stops that were not part of the main event.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Best of Australia

I had a good experience traveling to Australia with G Adventures. The itinerary from "Best of Australia" captured many key points of interest (some of which I really desired and others I didn't think of). There were mountains and beaches; small towns and bigger cities; and a variety of activities from surfing to bridge climbing to sailing. There were a few challenges at the beginning of our tour. A weather-related event prevented us from going into Cape Tribulation, thus we spent a bit more time in Cairns. I wish G Adventues would have handled the situation a bit differently: perhaps moved us early out of Cairns since the weather prevented us from doing many activities on those extra days. The tour guide was helpful, but he was thrown into an itinerary which he wasn't very familiar with. Although he made an effort to organize meals throughout the trip and come up with solutions to problems, I think that he needed to be more pro-active in describing and selling the various optional excursions (it was apparent that he had not done several of them). Transportation was adequate: a mix of bus and airplane. Here is my overview of accommodations: Cairns (The Hotel Cairns - Very average and the breakfast is not that great. Location is great though. In Australia it's rated 4 star, but in the USA or Europe it would be closer to a 2 or 3 at the most. Airlie Beach (Blue Horizon Hotel - Great condominium-style hotel. The rooms are comfy and modern; above what I would have expected for a room booked by a tour operator). Byron Bay (Byron Bay Hotel and Apartments - The rooms were pretty decent with the exception of the window which overlooked an internal corridor, thus not as much natural light as desired. The inside of the hotel is a bit of a maze. Great location). Port Macquirie (El Paso Motor Inn - Better than the name would suggest. Pretty decent rooms and very well-located). Blue Mountains (Leisure Inn - I enjoyed this hotel; nice rooms and a great location). Sydney (Travelodge - A decent hotel; the equivalent of a Holiday Inn - 3 star hotel in the USA or Europe. Rooms were simple, but updated. The location was not bad; that is to say not a prime location, but not too far away from the main attractions; you could walk 30 minutes to key Sydney-area attractions or take the public transport which was nearby). I liked the variety of activities in this trip. It was also nice to have a smaller group (15 people). I did not like the high premium for the single supplement (I researched the pricing for most of these places and the single supplement alone could have paid for the rooms). I do think that there is a value in having the tour operator organize activities and locations. For a big country like Australia; I would definitely recommend doing this. I also think that the like-minded travelers and the interactions between the group is a great way to enhance the vacation.

6 Day Perth to Exmouth Coral Coaster (One Way)

A great tour with an excellent driver/guide, Carlos, full of information, well organized and sensitive to our needs. Lots of wonderful places to see and experience from sunrise to sunset. Long bus rides at times and a full bus so little room to stretch out. But worth traveling the distances. Highly recommend the one way tour and fly out from Exmouth

• Hiking & Trekking

Famous 5 - 5 day Tour of Tasmania

A wonderful tour in every respect. Evan was a fantastic caring guide. Highly recommended

• €65 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Brisbane to Cairns Adventure (8 Days) (14 destinations)

City to Surf (8 Days)

Great way to see Sydney and tick off some Australian bucket list items!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Learn To Dive (5 Days)

Great dive instructors.

• Coach / Bus

7 Day Perth to Exmouth Explorer Loop

I had an unforgettable time with an amazing group. Our tour guid Geoff was very knowledgeable, helpful and always full of energy. I don’t know how he does it

Sydney to Brisbane Adventure (7 Days) (from Byron Bay to Tweed Heads)

Explorer Six - 6 Day Tour of Tasmania

Tour guide Doc (Shaun) was excellent. His communication and driving skills were extremely good. Accommodation was not good. When organising the tour there was no coordination as a result we did Not get what we asked for. We were told we will have a private bathroom, but we were put in a hostel with common bathrooms. The bedroom in the hostel was very small and the bunk beds were not good enough for two ladies who are 79 and 75 years old. We were told that the tour group ages were from 18 to 80, but somethings were not good enough for older ladies.

• Mountain Hikes
• Desert Hikes

Kakadu's Ancient Secrets (5 Days)

The tour exceeded our expectations on all fronts except for the accommodation at Wildman Wilderness Lodge which was full of bugs and stifling hot at night. Most of the meals were excellent but a few lunches had mediocre sandwiches.

Tasmania Hobart & Launceston All-Inclusive Grand 10 Days Touring Package

The trip was very well planned to the smallest detail. Tasmania itself was beyond expectation. I cannot wait to come back. Just one small thing. The tour buses were sometimes tiny and old. Also at least one of the tour guides was talking incessantly for about 10hrs solid. He was a walking encyclopaedia, but sometimes, less is more. But the star of the show was Eli herself, the first face of contact.

Red Centre & Uluru Adventure

Australia’s West Coast & Ningaloo Reef – 8 Day Boutique Comfort Tour

Untamed Kimberley (11 Days)

Great tour, fantastic tour guide and driver in Carolyn and Reece nothing to much trouble and very knowledgeable. A few long days on the coach but you don't realise how big the Kimberly area is. We were looked after really well , would definitely recommend just do it!!

What people love about Australia Solo Tours

I did this 4-day tour and I really enjoyed it. Jens, the guide, as well as all participants were very nice and warmhearted. I felt like I travelled with new friends. There were only 5 people in our group. I totally recommend this tour that includes amazing spots and sceneries. We were also lucky to see many animals (koalas, kangaroos, emus, fox, etc.).

Cool group, great guide, some long drives. Would need a driver and a guide A flight from Byron Bay to avoid 2 long drives on the bus

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Home » Oceania » Australia » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

There is nothing that can make you feel as liberated and independent as traveling on your own. With dynamic cities, a remote outback, beautiful coastlines, and a bunch of cool backpackers to meet, Australia is one of the best countries to visit solo.

Travelling solo in Australia is super safe, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of adventures to be had. No wonder tons of gap year tourists and solo females choose to explore this massive island country. The only downside is that it isn’t the most affordable place to visit, but put in perspective, travelling Australia alone is well worth the price.

With an active outdoor lifestyle and a big beach scene, visiting Australia solo gives you the space for personal growth and development. Hostels make it easy to meet and make friends – and just about everyone speaks English here. Locals are friendly and funny, so you’ll never have an issue finding your way around!

If you are looking to travel the land down under on your own, here are my top recommendations of where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for your trip.

5 Things to Do in Australia When Traveling Solo

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With incredible natural scenery, including mountains, barrier reefs, and deserts, Australia embodies an outdoorsy and active culture. Whether you’re backpacking the East Coast or hitting up Western Australia, is a haven for solo travellers. Check out these five activities you can do on your own in Australia…

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1. Island Hop Through the Whitsunday Islands

If there is one natural attraction worthwhile visiting on your Australian solo travel adventure, it’s the Great Barrier Reef coastline. With 74 sandbanks and tropical islands, there’s no need to choose just one island in the Whitsundays to visit. 

Instead, joining a group island-hopping trip along this picturesque coastline is an incredible way to see this Great Barrier Reef region. (If you’re looking to snorkel the reef itself, Cairns is a better option).

Since most islands are protected as a national park, you must visit with a planned tour . From luxury yachts to paddle boats, there are ways to explore the Whitsundays for all budgets. 

2. Experience Australian History in the Red Center

The Red Center is the heart of old Australia. Set right in the middle of the country, this is an impressive landscape of deserts, mountains, rocky gorges, and some of the most sacred Aboriginal sites. The region isn’t overpopulated with tourists, purely because it’s challenging to get to.

Uluru and Kara Tjuta are two exceptional locations in the Outback worth visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the Aboriginal culture and heritage. Here, you can watch the colours of the rock change at sunset while listening to local string melodies on the didgeridoo.

3. Hang out at the hostels 

Look, solo travel in Australia is just as much about kicking back and enjoying the simple life with new amazing travel buddies as it is about seeing world-famous attractions. All my most fond memories here involve nothing more than sharing a box of goon and a couple of joints with strangers who become dear, dear mates.

4. Taste the Best Wine of Barossa Valley, Adelaide

Famous for being one of the world’s most significant wine-producing regions, Barossa Valley near Adelaide is home to over 150 wineries, as well as many of the world’s longest-continuously produced wine variants.

Aside from great wine, the region is one of the best Australian solo travel destinations , resembling a Tuscan dreamscape. Naturally, one of the best things to do here is to taste the famous wines, dine at exceptional establishments, and stroll through the lush vineyards. This is a great activity to enjoy solo, but also an easy way to meet other travellers and locals.

5. Take A Bike Tour Through the Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne

Located just south of the busy city of Melbourne, The Mornington Peninsula is a suburban landscape that blends seaside charm with lush vineyards. You’ll find golden beaches, vineyard-lined hills, and exciting forests here, with each landscape offering its own choice of adventure and activity. 

One of the best ways to experience the region is to join a bike tour through the peninsula. There are plenty of tours to join, stopping off at well-known restaurants, hot springs, and gorgeous beaches.

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Sometimes the best company is your own. Whether you prefer your own space or want to meet like-minded travellers, here is our pick of the best places to travel solo in Australia:

After visiting Melbourne , I can safely say it is my favourite city in Australia. With a considerable amount of buzzing neighbourhoods to explore, Melbourne is also one of Australia’s most popular cities. It has been called one of the most livable cities in the world, so it certainly is worth a visit to see what the hype is about. 

Melbourne is best known for its high-end food scene, Australia’s best coffee, and incredible art exhibitions and museums. It’s also the fashion capital of Australia, with streets lined with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.

You can’t say you’ve visited Melbourne without driving the Great Ocean Road. Expect an Aussie road trip packed with incredible scenery along this scenic drive, passing the famous surf spots of Torquay and Bells Beach, kangaroos hopping across golf courses, and the Twelve Apostle rock formations. Aside from renting a car, this activity won’t cost you a cent!

Selina Central Melbourne is an excellent example of Selina’s good reputation. Centrally located with a communal kitchen, bar, and co-working space, it’s the ideal budget city accommodation.

You just have to visit Byron Bay – Australia’s premier beach town. What was once a sleepy coastal town blossomed into a hippie centre in the ’60s. Today, it’s home to an eclectic mix of high-fashion socialites and laid-back surfers, with a patchwork offering of trendy bars, low-key restaurants, yoga studios, and incredible beaches.

The best thing to do when travelling solo in Australia’s Byron Bay is to enjoy time on the beach, typically packed with locals and visitors on any given day. When the sun sets, make your way to one of the town’s vibrant restaurants and enjoy a drink with new friends at a rooftop bar.

The town is by no means cheap, but there are ways to save money. Staying in budget accommodation is one of them. Naturally, the most affordable activities here involve spending time outdoors. Start by hiking the Cape Byron Walking Track and cycle to The Farm in Byron Bay.

The colourful community welcomes newcomers, and staying in a hostel here is the best way to find an in with the in-crowds. The Surf House is Byron Bays’ premier hostel. Just a few minutes from the Main Beach, the hostel has a rooftop bar and unique shared rooms perfect for solo travellers in Australia.

The heart of Australia’s active lifestyle, Cairns is a friendly town known for its incredible natural beauty. Set between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest (two listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites), backpack up to Cairns for the gateway of Tropical North Queensland with a subtropical climate. 

Again, the best (and most affordable) things to do here involve spending your time in nature. Rent some snorkelling gear and explore the underwater world of Ciarns, or take the more adrenaline-pumping alternative and jump 50 meters off Australia’s only bunjy jump. If you don’t want to do the jump, the platform alone offers some of the best views of the surrounding region.

The Daintree Rainforest, just an hour’s drive away, can be visited on a group tour or even when travelling Australia solo, and it is an exciting activity to uncover more about the ancient rainforest cultures.

As the day draws to a close, there’s no better place to grab a bite than at the Cairns Night Market, which has a lively atmosphere perfect for meeting locals and other travellers.

For the perfect combination of a relaxed and social atmosphere, Travellers Oasis Backpackers offers comfortable, safe, and clean accommodation for budget solo travellers.

Although the capital of Tasmania, Hobart is a small and historic city surrounded by nature. Best of all, this city is an incredible location for solo travellers, with tons of activities that are safe and fun to do alone.

Some of the best things to do in Hobart include taking a tour of Bruny Island, where delicious chocolate and cheese meet spectacular wildlife. Visiting the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, watching a performance at the Salamanca Arts Center, or admiring an art exhibition at Mona are musts for culture vultures. If you want a quick intro to the city’s major attractions, hop on a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Open yourself up to a social event at the Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. You never know; you might just meet a new friend willing to summit nearby Mount Wellington with you.

In the historic village of Battery Point, Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is close to restaurants and markets. The locally owned hostel has a large shared kitchen, living room, and laundry facilities.

Adelaide is an Australian solo traveller’s paradise for a few reasons. It’s easily accessible, with a compact city centre that makes it easy to explore on foot. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy and a bunch of cool people to meet in Adelaide’s great hostels .

When it comes to natural scenery, Adelaide deserves an accolade. The capital city of South Australia is perfectly-positioned just a short drive from the iconic Outback. While possible to do alone, I recommend visiting the outback with a tour group or a new group of friends. This way, you can access off-the-beaten-track hikes and trails and explore million-year-old mountains more confidently.

Adelaide is also known for its stretched-out coastline, overflowing with abundant sealife that feeds the country’s high-end seafood scene. The city is also the host of many sporting events and festivals. If you’ve always wanted to lay eyes on a koala bear, plenty of these cuddly creatures call the Adelaide Hills home.

Adelaide Central YHA is one of the best backpackers in the city. With newly renovated rooms, free Wi-Fi, and other modern facilities, it offers safe, clean, and friendly budget accommodations for solo travellers.

• Hostelworld: The best app for searching and booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb : Great for finding hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation
• PackPoint : A helpful app to help you make sure you pack all the necessities for your trip
• Couchsurfer : Suitable for budget travellers but not recommended for solo female travellers in Australia
• Viator and Get Your Guide : Useful for browsing and booking tours and day trips
• Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble : Designed to meet and socialize with others in your vicinity
• Trail Wallet : A great way to stick to your budget when travelling in an expensive country
• Backpackr : A social media app designed for meeting travellers nearby
• WhatsApp Messenger : The leading messaging app used by most locals in Australia
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

It’s also a good idea to join local Facebook groups designed for travellers or ex-pats in Australia. Groups like ‘ Melbourne Meetups,’ ‘Traveling Tasmania, ’ and ‘ Australia Backpackers’ are some of the most popular.

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Unlike many other destinations, your most significant safety concerns as a tourist in Australia are the unfriendly wild animals, as opposed to crime. That said, any big city poses a risk of petty theft and unwelcome crime, so vigilance is essential. 

Watch your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places or where you might be distracted. When you go out at night, always keep an eye on your drinks, especially if you are a solo female traveller in Australia. Although spiked drinks are uncommon here, you can never rule out risk.

I always share my live location with family and friends back home, as well as with a new friend I trust in the city I am visiting. I also recommend staying in a female-only dorm if you are travelling solo as a female-identifying person.

Steer clear of unfriendly animals in the outback while hiking or at the beach. There are a few dangerous animals to keep an eye out for. I’m talking about box jellyfish, snakes, spiders, sharks, crocodiles, and even octopuses.

Lastly, use all the sun protection . The sun is powerful in the land down under, and sunstroke can put a real damper on a great adventure.

• Staying in hostels is the easiest way to make friends in any new place. Many of the best hostels in Australia even have bars and organize daily group activities. The perfect combo between a villa and a hostel, Stoke Beach House is one of Sydney’s premier surf hostels.
• Plan some booked adventures or tours . Even if group tours aren’t your thing, I advise booking a few activities in advance. Not only are these a great way to meet other travellers, but they offer a different perspective of a location. This Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Course is an excellent example of a tour that could be booked out fast!
• Take advantage of freebies . Travelling solo in Australia can get expensive – fast. Check social media groups to find free events in the area you visit. Most big cities offer free cultural days where you can visit different museums, castles, and historic homes at no cost.
• Keep some flexibility in your itinerary . While booking some pre-planned activities is a good idea, keeping your plans flexible is essential. When you meet the right people, you’ll want to chop and change your itinerary and the places you visit.
• Plan your own trip – it’s your Australian backpacking adventure . Template itineraries found on the internet can be helpful for research, but I recommend that you plan your own trip according to the activities you most enjoy.
• Use public transport . Australian cities have some of the world’s most efficient and affordable public transport systems. Take advantage of this service and save costs on Uber and taxis, which are a sure way to blow through your budget super fast.
• Be social , but appreciate spending time on your own. Travelling alone can be lonely, but it is also so rewarding. Be friendly with others in your hostel and tour groups, but also remember to be satisfied spending time alone.
• One of the best tips for solo travel in Australia is to visit during the right time of year . September to November and March through May are the best times to visit the country. These months fall between seasons, meaning you’ll skip the crowds while taking advantage of lower prices before tourist season begins.
• Get good travel insurance . I can’t stress this enough. Although the country is safe regarding crime, Australia is home to its fair share of dangerous animals. Make sure you have insurance that covers things like snake bites and jellyfish stings.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Use social media : Facebook groups advertise different events you can attend to meet new friends. Dating apps are another way to meet people. Most apps can be switched from dating to friendship, making it easy to find people with similar interests within your vicinity.
• Stay in a hostel : When choosing where to stay in Australia , opting for a hostel is one of the best ways to meet new people. Especially if you stay in a shared room, it’s hard not to make friends when sharing accommodation with others. 
• Attend cultural events : Besides tours, joining other cultural activities, including cooking courses and cultural immersion experiences, is another excellent way to meet others while travelling solo.
• Keep an open mind and be confident and friendly : Make sure you keep an open mind about meeting new people. Be available when others need advice or directions or want photos taken, and remain approachable by being friendly and welcoming.
• Join group tours : Whether you join a tour hosted by your hostel or an independent tour guide, group tours and activities are one of the best ways to meet others while abroad . Chances are those joining the same trip will have similar interests to yours!
• Join a gym or sports team : Short-term memberships at sports clubs, gyms, or co-working spaces are an excellent way for solo travellers in Australia to meet other travellers.
• Join a pub crawl : Often organized by hostels or youth organizations, pub crawls (or other social events) make it easy to visit new areas of the city while meeting new friends in a casual social environment.
• Volunteer : Volunteering in Australia with a local organization is not only a great way to give back, but it is also great for meeting others with similar humanitarian interests as your own.

Australia was an absolutely mental place to visit alone. It was the first solo trip I took that kick-started my deep passion for self-exploration through global exploration.

The country is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, and there is nothing more liberating and character-building than travelling solo. Put these two together, and we have ourselves a winning location for solo travellers. With an incredible outdoorsy scene, incredible natural beauty, dynamic and safe cities, and plenty of budget accommodations available, solo travellers in Australia could spend their days learning to surf in Byron Bay and evenings dancing the night away with new friends. 

With cultural influences from Aborinonals and British settlers, as well as other island nations, Australia has a unique history and cultural scene. The country is most famous for its natural wonders and wide open spaces, including ‘The Outback’ and ‘The Bush.’ But it’s also famous for its metropolitan centres, with four mega-cities; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Massive and varied, the country truly has something to offer every traveller. Whether you enjoy spending your time lounging on beautiful beaches, tasting incredible food, or adventuring into the unknown Outback, you’re guaranteed to have an exciting time travelling solo in Australia.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Solo travel in Australia: everything you need to know

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written by Shafik Meghji

updated 07.05.2021

Australia remains a classic travel destination. A steady stream of solo traveller gap-year backpackers, career breakers and round-the-world-trippers head down under to sample Sydney’s energetic nightlife, visit the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at Uluru , cuddle a koala and learn to surf.

The must-see destinations

Getting around.

• Where to stay

Where to eat (and drink)

How to meet people, appreciate being on your own.

The country is a great place for solo travellers, particularly first-timers – it’s friendly, fun and full of opportunities to meet people. Many travellers end up staying longer than they planned – and some never leave.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Tailor-made trips for   Australia

One of the world’s great cities, Sydney is the ideal place to start your trip. As well as landmarks like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, it has a lively backpacker scene and eating, drinking and nightlife options to suit all budgets and tastes.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne is the country’s second-biggest city. As well as being a foodie and cultural hub, it has the country’s premier sports ground, the MCG – watching an Aussie Rules, rugby or cricket match here is an unforgettable experience.

Queensland is home to some of Australia’s most famous attractions: the Great Barrier Reef, the scenic Whitsundays , the beach resorts of the Gold Coast , and Fraser Island , which is covered with giant sand dunes.

© Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock

No trip is complete without a visit to Uluru (Ayers Rock), which lies in the centre of the country, deep in the Outback. Regardless of how many photos you’ve seen of “The Rock”, nothing prepares you for experiencing it first-hand.

It’s also well worth heading off the beaten track. For example, the temperate wilderness of Tasmania feels very different to the rest of the country, the tropical Northern Territory has some of the country’s best national parks, and South Australia offers great vineyards and a beautiful coastline.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world – at almost 7.7 square kilometres it is 31.5 times bigger than the UK – and getting around takes time.

Most people fly between states, and competition means fares are pretty good value. For shorter journeys – or tighter budgets – Greyhound buses connect all the main tourist destinations.

Australia is also a great place to drive , enabling you to explore at your own pace and get off the tourist trail. Campervans are particularly economical, as they double up as accommodation. Vehicles are easy to hire, but if you’re travelling for several months it is often cheaper to buy a secondhand vehicle and then sell it on again at the end of your trip.

Hostels are great places to meet other backpackers, and most organise social activities – often for free – including barbecues and pub crawls. The YHA, which offers accommodation in everything from former prisons to historic mansions, is a good place to start.

Another option is a homestay, which provide the opportunity to meet locals and stay in a family environment.

Many people feel self-conscious about eating out (or going for a drink) on their own, but it’s increasingly common, especially in the cities.

Most hostels have a café, restaurant or bar where you won’t stand out as a solo diner and are likely to meet fellow travellers. More and more restaurants have communal tables, and food markets – such as Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin and Adelaide Central Market – are sociable places to eat, too.

It’s also easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger in an Aussie pub (which, confusingly, are often called “hotels”).

Related articles from the blog

Working in Australia is a rite of passage and a great way to meet people, get under the skin of the country and fund your travels.

Twelve-month working holiday visas are available for 18 to 30-year-olds from most European countries (including the UK and Ireland), Canada, Japan and Korea. US citizens need to apply for a “work and holiday visa”. For more information, visit www.border.gov.au.

Officially, no job should last longer than six months, and most travellers end up working on farms or doing bar, construction and other casual work.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but you’re far more likely to meet new people if you’re travelling on your own, rather than in a couple or with friends. You’ve got an added incentive to break the ice and try out new things – and will also seem more approachable to the countless other solo travellers out there.

Taking part in group activities is another easy way to meet people. For example, you could climb Sydney Harbour Bridge , take a 4WD trip across the giant sand dunes of Fraser Island, go wine tasting in the Barossa Valley or spot dolphins on a Coral Coast cruise.

And Australians themselves are (generally) very sociable, welcoming and happy to talk to strangers.

Cape Range National Park, Ningaloo Marine Park © Darkydoors/Shutterstock

You will feel lonely and homesick at some point. But you’ll also never have as much freedom than when travelling on your own – you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and do whatever you want, without worrying about anyone else.

Some of Australia’s epic landscapes – sunset at Uluru, driving down the Great Ocean Road – are best appreciated alone.

And although it may sound cliched, you’ll learn a lot more about yourself when you travel on your own.

You will find plenty of ideas for your Australian solo trip in our guide to the best things to do in Australia .

Shafik Meghji co-authors The Rough Guide to Australia . He blogs at unmappedroutes.com .

Top image © GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Shafik is an award-winning travel writer, journalist and co-author of more than 40 Rough Guides to destinations across Latin America, Asia, Oceania, Europe and North Africa. A regular contributor to the Rough Guide to Everywhere podcast, he writes and takes photos for BBC Travel, Wanderlust and Atlas Obscura, among others. His new book, Crossed Off The Map: Travels in Bolivia, will be published in late 2021. Follow him @shafikmeghji on Twitter and Instagram .

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Australia Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

Traveling in Australia all by oneself can be daunting for some. So on a solo tour to Australia why not join like-minded travelers and explore this amazing country together. This way you will get more support on your trip to Australia and avoid that dreaded single supplement on your accommodation by being part of a group tour in Australia . You will also benefit from a local guide to help you navigate places like Melbourne’s coffee scene and the beaches of the Gold Coast. And if you are a wine lover, you can vibe with other enthusiasts in Australia's southern wine country. Check out the best solo trips to Australia below.

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193 solo trips in Australia

• Starts Cairns, Australia
• Ends Sydney And NSW, Australia

Best of Australia

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Chill out & Cultural, religious and historic sites Chill out , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='5085'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Flight, Private Vehicle, Boat & Ferry
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,299
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 860
• Total Price from: US$ 3,439
• Apr 25 Only 5 seats left
• May 09 Only 2 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Brisbane, Australia
• Ends Cairns, Australia

Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Photography tours & Chill out Photography tours , Chill out & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='5084'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel, Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Boat, Ferry, Private Vehicle, Yacht, 4WD Jeep & Bus
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,299
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 460
• Total Price from: US$ 1,839
• May 04 Only 7 seats left
• May 11 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Airlie Beach, Australia

North Queensland Adventure

• Activities Marine wildlife & Active and outdoor Marine wildlife , Active and outdoor & Beach 'data-more-tripid='32164'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Ferry, Train, Coach & Yacht
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,555
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 233
• Total Price from: US$ 1,322
• Aug 10 10+ seats left
• Sep 21 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Melbourne, Australia

Australian Highlights

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Rainforest and jungle visits Natural landmarks sightseeing , Rainforest and jungle visits & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='23155'>+1 more
• Transport Flight & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 1-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 8,330
• Special Deal (11%): - US$ 929
• Total Price from: US$ 7,401
• Jun 23 10+ seats left
• Aug 25 Only 10 seats left

• Starts Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park, Australia
• Ends Darwin, Australia

Outback Safari

• Activities Safari & Windsurfing Safari , Windsurfing , Wine , Wildbeest migration & Wildlife 'data-more-tripid='21337'>+3 more
• Transport Coach & Boat
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,450
• Special Deal (16%): - US$ 860
• Total Price from: US$ 4,590
• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• Jun 29 10+ seats left

• Starts Hobart, Australia
• Ends Hobart, Australia

Hobart & Southern Tasmania Explorer

• Activities Active and outdoor & Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Transport Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Jun 21 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Launceston, Australia

Tasmanian Explorer

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Active and outdoor
• Transport Boat, Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Jun 16 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Darwin, Australia

Kakadu's Ancient Secrets

• Activities National parks & Wildlife
• Accommodation Lodge, Hotel & Eco Lodge
• Transport Flight & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,805
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 571
• Total Price from: US$ 3,234
• May 09 10+ seats left
• Jun 06 10+ seats left

Highlights of Australia

• Trip customizable
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & City sightseeing
• Transport Flight, Train, Bus, Coach & Boat
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 26 10+ seats left
• May 10 10+ seats left

Highlights of Tasmania

• Transport Private Vehicle

Inspiring Australia

• Activities Explorer & Luxury
• Transport Coach, Flight & Ferry
• Nov 05 10+ seats left
• Jan 28 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Broome, Australia
• Ends Broome, Australia

Wild Kimberley Overland

• Activities Road trips & Explorer
• Accommodation Camping
• Transport Boat & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 8-99 yrs
• May 05 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Sydney And NSW, Australia
• Ends Melbourne, Australia

Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush

• Activities City sightseeing & Nature and bush walks
• Transport Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,255
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 340
• Total Price from: US$ 1,915

• Ends Noosa Everglades, Australia

City to Surf

• Activities Surfing, kitesurfing etc.
• Accommodation Eco Lodge, Lodge & Hotel
• Transport Ferry & Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,565
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 219
• Total Price from: US$ 1,346
• May 11 Only 10 seats left
• Jul 06 Only 10 seats left

Traveling to Australia alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Australia who can help build the perfect solo trip in Australia.

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Australia Solo Travel Guide and Adventure Itinerary (2023)

Australia is one of the most popular and diverse solo travel destinations in the world. Head Down Under and you can cuddle a koala, surf the Gold Coast, dive the Great Barrier Reef, catch the sunrise at Uluru and so much more!

In this ultimate guide to solo travel in Australia, you’ll find everything you need to plan the Ozzie adventure of a lifetime.

All the advice is tailored to people who will be travelling alone in Australia, including: the best destinations, things to do and see, accommodation, transport, costs, a packing list, safety tips and much more. 

After Australia, why don’t you continue on to solo travel New Zealand !

• Solo Travel in Australia
• 6 Best Places to Travel Alone
• 10 Best Things to Do and See
• Accommodation
• Best Time to Visit Australia
• Where to Start
• How Long to Spend Travelling
• Costs and Budgeting
• Packing List
• Visas and Entry Requirements
• More guides and tips

Overview of Solo T ravel in Australia

Australia is one of the best solo travel destinations for both first-timers and experienced travellers. 

People love to travel solo in Australia because it is safe, easy to navigate and has an array of famous sites such as Sydney, Bondi Beach, Melbourne, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Ocean Road and Kakadu. You will enjoy the relaxed environment and find it easy to make friends with the locals and other solo travellers. 

The most popular solo travel route in Australia is the East Coast (Melbourne – Sydney – Byron Bay – Gold Coast – Cairns). However, if you have enough time, you may also want to travel into The Outback (Uluru, Kakadu, Broome, etc.)

Solo travel around Australia is particularly popular amongst young people (aged 18-30) (both male and female) thanks to its party atmosphere and visa options. However, it is also popular amongst older solo travellers (50+), sometimes referred to as ‘Grey Nomads’ in Australia (famous for travelling around in campervans and motorhomes).

It is easy to find accommodation all over Australia, with hostels and hotels found in every major town and city. It is also easy to arrange transport, with coaches travelling around most of the country and airports in major cities and large regional towns. 

Many people choose to solo travel in Australia during summer (December – February), because they think that the beaches will be more enjoyable in the heat. However, the cooler seasons are a great time to solo travel around Australia because the Northern Tropics are more accessible and it snows in the alpine regions of south-east Australia.

Note that Australia can be an expensive country to solo travel in. It is also a large place and you will need at least 1-3 months if you want to see most of the highlights. 

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary (1-6 Months) : 4 Best Places to Travel Alone

East Coast of Australia (1-3 Months)

Victoria (1 week to 1 month).

Victoria is the second most populous state and is located in the southeast of the country. It is famous for its buzzing metropolitan lifestyle, wine regions, natural wonders and sporting events.

The capital of Victoria is Melbourne. You can fly to Melbourne from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney, Adelaide or Brisbane. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here.

Melbourne is famous for being a cultural hub of Australia and one of the most liveable cities in the world. Wander the laneways and admire the street art before stopping for a coffee (voted the best in the world). Then at night, enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery before hitting the nightclubs or catching a sporting event.

To the west of Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road, one of the most renowned coastal drives in the world. Along the way, stand in awe and admire geological wonders such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. You’ll also get to explore rainforests, waterfalls and Bell’s Beach (the home of surfing in Australia). 

Throughout the Victorian Countryside and the Mornington Peninsula, you will find vineyards responsible for producing some of the world’s best Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. And when you’re not wining and dining, you can soak away the afternoon in mineral hot baths or cast a line on the Murray River. 

New South Wales (1 Week to 1 Month)

New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia and is located on the East Coast. It is famous for its iconic beaches, monumental landmarks and mountain ranges.

The capital of New South Wales is Sydney. You can fly to Sydney from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Melbourne or Brisbane. 

Sydney is known for its famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It is also home to the famous Bondi Beach and Manly Beach. To the west of Sydney are the Blue Mountains, where you can see towering waterfalls and steep cliffs amongst the blue haze of the eucalyptus forests.

The northern coastline of NSW is lined with long, sandy beaches. The most famous of these is the celebrity hotspot Byron Bay, a hippy community that has become a playground for backpackers and wealthy travellers alike. When you’re not learning to surf, just kick back and relax or hit one of the nightclubs. 

In southern NSW are the Snowy Mountains and Kosciuszko National Park, home to the highest peak in Australia and bush legends such as the Man From the Snowy River. Visit in the winter and you can ski or snowboard at large resorts such as Perisher and Thredbo. 

Queensland (2 Weeks – 1 Month)

Queensland is the most popular destination for solo travel in Australia. This tropical paradise is famous for its sandy beaches, tropical rainforest, vibrant reef and party cities.

The capital of Queensland is Brisbane. You can fly to Brisbane from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney or Melbourne. It is another great starting point for solo travel in Australia.

Brisbane is famous for its sub-tropical climate, riverside walkways, alfresco dining and annual Cockroach Races. It is also close to Stradbroke Island, a whale-watching paradise!

An hour from Brisbane is the Gold Coast, where solo travellers like to party by night and then recover on the beach by day. Here, you will find strips of nightclubs, bars and theme parks filled with young people looking for a good time. Some of the famous surf beaches include Surfer’s Paradise and Burleigh Heads.

A few hours further north is the Sunshine Coast, a more-upmarket beach destination with luxurious hotels and popular hostels. Visit Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, where you can hand feed kangaroos, pat a koala and watch the croc feeding show. Then catch a ferry to Fraser Island (K’Gari), where vivid blue lakes, rainforests and sand dunes adorn the world’s largest sand island.

In the Tropical North of Queensland, you will find cities such as Townsville and Cairns – both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel with turtles and visit heavenly spots such as Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island. Then, delve deep into the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest.

Tasmania (2 Weeks)

Tasmania is an island state to the south of Australia. Whilst it may not be the most popular place to solo travel in Australia, it is perhaps the most underrated. Tasmania is famous for its spectacular scenery, convict and Aboriginal history, unique wildlife and cultural attractions.

The capital of Tasmania is Hobart. You can fly to Hobart from all of the major airports in Australia. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry to Tasmania from Melbourne.

Hobart is famous for its cultural attractions, such as the Salamanca Markets, which hosts over 300 artisan stalls every Saturday. You should also ride the ferry to the MONA Art Museum, the largest privately-funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere.

The East Coast of Tasmania is spoiled with amazing seafood and scenery, including sights such as Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires. You can also visit Port Arthur, which was once a brutal convict settlement but is today one of the best museums in Australia.

The West Coast of Tasmania is wild and rugged but beautiful. Climb Cradle Mountain and look out of vast swathes of remote Australian bushland before circling the crystal clear waters of Lake St Clair. And don’t miss out on the Tasmanian Devil sanctuary!

Western Australia (1-2 Months)

Western Australia is the largest state in Australia (about 3.5 times the size of Texas). It is less popular than the East Coast but is remarkable in its own right. It is famous for its rugged coastline, coral reefs and desert interior.

The capital of Western Australia is Perth. You can fly to Perth from all of the major airports in Australia. Otherwise, it is several days’ drive from Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney.

Perth is famous for Cottesloe Beach and is a gateway to Rottnest Island, home of the Instagram-famous Quokka (a cute little kangaroo). To the south of Perth is the historic city of Fremantle and the Margaret River surf region. To the north is the Pinnacles Desert, where strange limestone pillars that are 30,000 years old rise out of the sands.

The Western Australian Coastline is vast and takes weeks to travel, but it is host to internationally-renowned marine attractions. Feed dolphins on the shore in Monkey Mia, swim with the whale sharks at Ningaloo Marine Park and ride a camel along Cable Beach in Broome.

The Western Australian Outback is even more vast but is equally remarkable. Explore the red soils, ginormous gorges and hidden swimming holes around Kalbarri National Park, Karijini National Park and the Kimberley. Then see Wave Rock before crossing the desert via the Nullarbor Plain, the longest straight road on the planet (147km/91mi).

The Outback (1 Month)

The Australian Outback may seem dry and deserted but it is one of the most popular destinations for solo travel in Australia. Known as the Red Centre, it is famous for its amber sands, Aboriginal culture, natural wonders and wildlife. 

Most people start their Outback journey in the city of Adelaide, which is surrounded by internationally-renowned wine regions such as the Barossa Valley. Nature lovers will want to see the wildlife on Kangaroo Island or cage dive with Great White Sharks off of Port Lincoln. 

In the centre of Australia is the country’s most iconic landmark, Uluru, which stands 348m tall. Not far away are the equally impressive Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. And you can’t visit the Outback without stopping in the quirky town of Coober Pedy, where the people live underground to escape the heat.

In the north of Australia is Darwin, where you can watch jumping crocodiles on the nearby Adelaide River. And don’t miss Kakadu National Park, where you can see ancient Aboriginal rock art, swim amongst breathtaking gorges, cruise around billabongs and soak in thermal hot springs.

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Australia Solo Travel Itinerary : 10 Best Things to Do and See

1. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world’s oldest tropical rainforest (180 million years old) and the place that Sir David Attenborough once called “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”

Delve into the shadowy depths of the Daintree Rainforest, following the boardwalks as they twist and turn underneath the lush canopy and dangling vines. Listen to the sounds of nature and keep an eye out for prehistoric wildlife – including the giant cassowary and crunching saltwater crocodiles. 

After all of that adventure, solo travellers can soak the day away in the trickling waters of Mossman Gorge or Masons Swimming Hole.

2. The Great Barrier Reef

Dive or snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, which spans over 2,300km of Australia’s eastern coastline and is the largest living organism on Earth. 

Swim between vibrant corals that are 20 million years old and submerge yourself amongst the 1,600 species of fish, turtles, whales and dolphins that call this place home. Then dry yourself off on the soft and sandy shores of havens like Hamilton Island and Green Island.

Just be aware that summer is stinger season on the Great Barrier Reef and temperatures are scorching. It is best for solo travellers to visit during the winter when temperatures are still warm but pleasant and there are no stingers in the water.

3. Byron Bay

Chill out in Australia’s most famous beach town – Byron Bay. This slice of coastal bliss has become internationally renowned for its stunning beaches, laidback lifestyle and fun nightlife. 

Throw yourself into the hippy lifestyle and spend time doing yoga and pilates on the beach with the locals and other solo travellers. Pick up a board and learn to surf on the beautiful stretch of sand that is Main Beach. 

Take a sunset walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse on mainland Australia’s most easterly point. And then party the night away at local pubs and nightclubs like Stone & Wood or Cheeky Monkeys!

Sydney is the largest and most famous city in Australia thanks to its iconic attractions. Most solo travellers spend at least a week here seeing all the sights.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a guided tour before catching a gig at the Opera House next door. Kick back on Bondi Beach before following the coastal walk around to Coogee Beach. Then ride the ferry to Taronga Zoo, where you can snap photos of exotic and native wildlife with the city skyline in the background.

Catch the train for a day trip to the UNESCO World-Heritage Blue Mountains, an hour west of Sydney. Take the walking trails to sights such as the 230m tall Katoomba Falls and The Three Sisters rock formation before visiting quaint villages such as Leura.

5. Rottnest Island

Enjoy a quick ferry ride from Perth to Rottnest Island, a slice of paradise with pristine beaches, abundant marine life and a famous little breed of wallaby known as the Quokka.

There are no cars allowed on Rottnest Island, so hire a bike and enjoy the freedom of peddling around the island. As you go, stop on one of the 63 white sand beaches and snorkel amongst the bright coral reefs – home to over 400 species of fish and fur seals.

Uncover the history of the island at Wadjemup Museum, where you can learn about the local Aboriginal heritage and how over 4,000 Aboriginal men and boys were imprisoned on the island from 1838 to 1931.

Finally, finish your visit by taking a selfie with a Quokka. You won’t find a cuter or friendlier creature when solo travelling around Australia!

6. Melbourne

Meander around Melbourne, a cultural hub for coffee, art, fashion, food and sport. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here and make their way north along the Eastern Coast.

Find your way through the maze of laneways, each lined with its own array of al fresco restaurants, trendy cafes and vibrant street art. Get buzzed on the world’s best coffee, drink with other solo travellers in pubs around Fitzroy or Carlton and dance the night away at one of the famous nightclubs such as Revolver.

Need some rest? Relax amongst the peaceful grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which hosts over 8,500 plant species. Then watch the sunset on St Kilda Beach or grab a photo of the colourful beach huts on Brighton Beach.

7. The Great Ocean Road

Cruise along the Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world and a must-visit on any Australia solo travel itinerary. At 244km, it can be driven in as little as one day.

Start in the beach town of Torquay (an hour west of Melbourne), the surfing capital of Australia and host to the Australian National Surfing Museum. Then explore the fern gullies and waterfalls around Lorne, such as the 30m cascade that is Erskine Falls. And wander amongst the koalas in the treetops of Great Otway National Park.

Trace the craggy cliff tops as you wind your way around the edge of the mighty Southern Ocean. Stop at the many panoramic lookouts along the way and take in iconic sights such as Loch Ard Gorge, the London Bridge, the Grotto and the Twelve Apostles – a series of 45m (150ft) tall limestone pillars that rise out of waves below.

8. Kakadu National Park

Take a solo outback adventure into the Top End and discover the ancient wonders of World Heritage-listed Kakadu – Australia’s largest national park.

Walk amongst towering ochre bluffs, drive through tropical rainforests, cool off in swimming holes and admire the thundering waterfalls around Nitmiluk National Park. 

Admire ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries (up to 20,000 years old), cruise the Yellow Water Billabong and soak in the thermal hot springs around Katherine. 

But take note, the best time to visit Kakadu National Park is in the Dry Season (May – October) when it doesn’t rain as much and the roads are more accessible. However, the waterfalls can be amazing during the Wet Season (November – April).

The middle of Australia is known as The Red Centre, where you will find the heart of the country and its culture – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. If you have enough time, this is a must-visit on your Australia solo travel itinerary.

At 348 metres tall and 550 million years old, it’s no wonder why the monolithic Uluru is revered as a place of cultural and spiritual significance. Wake up early for some special sunrise photos before joining an Aboriginal guided tour and hearing their Dreamtime stories.

Don’t want to walk the full 9.4km around the base of the rock? Take a break and ride a camel around the red sands instead. And don’t miss nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), massive rock domes that glow bright red at sunrise and sunset.

10. Ningaloo Reef

The Western Australia coastline is 12,895km long and adorned with remarkable attractions. One of the gems that you must add to your Australia solo travel itinerary is Ningaloo Reef. 

You will find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef where the red soil of the outback runs into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Swim, snorkel and kayak through the calm waters and admire the manta rays, turtles and humpback whales that call this place home.

Ningaloo is also one of the best places in the world to see Whale Sharks each year (between March and July). Join a guided tour and watch as these gentle giants glide past you in the big blue.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Accommodation

Solo travellers have four main accommodation options in Australia: camping, hostels, motels/hotels and Airbnb. 

Most people generally stay in hostels and motels when they solo travel in Australia.

Solo travellers can find designated camping spots all around Australia. The best and most scenic campsites tend to be in National Parks and holiday parks.

National Park campsites can cost anywhere from $0 – $20 per person per night. Holiday park campsites can cost anywhere from $20 – $75 per person per night. 

The cheaper the campsite, the more basic the facilities provided. A standard campsite should provide toilets, showers, water and picnic tables.

Camping is a fun option for adventurous solo travellers who want to be amongst nature and save money on accommodation. However, you will need to carry a tent or travel in a campervan. 

Some of Australia’s best camping spots include: 

• Booderee National Park – Jervis Bay, NSW
• Great Sandy National Park – Fraser Island, QLD
• Ayers Rock Resort – Petermann, NT
• Riba’s Underground Camping – Coober Pedy, SA
• Bay of Fires – East Coast, Tasmania

The majority of solo travellers and backpackers in Australia stay at hostels. You can find hostels in most tourist destinations around the country.

The cost of a bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from about $25 – $70 per night. The cost of a private room in a hostel ranges from about $70 – $175 per night.

The cost of hostel accommodation increases in popular destinations (particularly cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast). Generally, dorm rooms with fewer beds also cost more.

Hostel accommodation is best for most solo travellers because it is affordable and a good way to make new friends. Women can also stay in female-only dorm rooms. However, hostels are not always as comfortable as motels or hotels.

Some of the most popular hostels for solo travel in Australia include:

• Gilligan’s Hostel – Cairns, QLD
• Bounce – Sydney, NSW
• The Mansion – Melbourne, VIC
• Nomads Hostel – Byron Bay, NSW
• Kimberley Travellers Lodge YHA – Broome, WA

Motels and hotels

Many solo travellers in Australia stay in motels or hotels. You can find motels and hotels in almost every city and town around the country.

The cost of an average motel or hotel room (3-4 stars) ranges from about $50 to $150 per night. However, luxurious hotel rooms can cost more than $250+ per night.

Motel and hotel accommodation is best for solo travellers who are willing to pay more for privacy and comfort. You may also have to use this option when visiting regional towns that don’t have hostels. However, it is harder to befriend fellow travellers in a motel or hotel compared to a hostel.

Popular motel and hotel chains in Australia include:

• Holiday Inn

Some solo travellers in Australia may choose to use Airbnb. You can find Airbnb accommodation in every city and most towns around the country.

The average cost of an apartment or home on Airbnb ranges from $150 – $250 per night. However, some rentals can cost up to $500+ per night.

Airbnb is best for solo travellers who want to enjoy luxury, privacy and comfort. It can also be a good option if you plan to stay at your destination long-term. You may even choose to split the cost between a group of friends or fellow travellers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Transport

Australia is a large place and it can take days or even weeks to travel the long distances between major cities. Even the cities tend to be large in scale and you will often have to rely on public transport to get around.

It is best to break long journeys up into smaller parts by stopping in regional tourist destinations along the way. 

Public Transport

You will find reliable and affordable public transport in all Australian cities and major towns. This includes trains, buses, trams and ferries. 

The cost of using public transport in Australia ranges from about $4 – $8 per return trip. 

When you solo travel in Australia, you can use public transport as an affordable way to get around the city and see local attractions. It tends to be comfortable and safe, with security cameras and guards.

Most of the major cities have their own card system for public transport. You can buy these cards at news agencies and top them up with credit via an app or online. You can then use the card to tap on/off when using buses, trains and ferries:

• Sydney – Opal card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Melbourne – Myki card .
• Brisbane – Go Card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Perth – SmartRider Card .

Uber and Taxi

Ubers and taxis are available in all major cities and many regional cities around Australia, including the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Byron Bay and Alice Springs. 

Ubers are more affordable than taxis in Australia and charge about $1.50 per km. Taxis charge about $2.50 per km.

When you solo travel in Australia, you may want to use Uber or taxis as a convenient but more costly alternative to public transport when commuting around the city. 

Uber and taxis tend to be comfortable and safe. Check that your Uber driver has a good rating and familiarise yourself with the safety features on the app. 

There are a few long-distance coach services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia.

The largest and most popular coach service for solo travel in Australia is Greyhound Buses. They can transport you all over the East Coast (including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra) and the Outback (including Darwin, Alice Springs, Adelaide and Broome). Along the way, you can hop on and hop off to visit the smaller regional cities and towns.

You can buy a travel pass, which lasts for a limited amount of time and allows you to travel in any direction and get off at any stop. The East Coast Pass costs $249 and lasts for 30 days. The National Pass costs $349 and lasts for 120 days.

Coaches are one of the most popular and affordable ways to solo travel around Australia. However, it is slower and less comfortable than taking the train or a domestic flight.

There are limited long-distance train services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia. 

The most popular train services run along the East Coast (between Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns). These are relatively affordable for a solo traveller, with economy tickets costing:

• Melbourne – Sydney: $110 – $130
• Sydney – Brisbane: $110 – $130
• Brisbane – Cairns: $275 – $370

These trains also offer sleeper coaches for about an extra $100-$150 per person.

There are also a few famous train services that run through the Outback, such as The Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) and The Ghan (Adelaide to Alice Springs to Darwin). However, these are expensive and luxurious journeys that most people consider once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A full journey can cost anywhere from $2150 – $4,200 per person.

Trains are a comfortable and easy way to solo travel around the East Coast of Australia. However, they are slightly more expensive than catching a coach.

The most popular way to solo travel in Australia is via domestic flight.

The average cost of a domestic flight for a solo traveller in Australia depends on the destination, distance and season: 

• Shorter flights along the East Coast (Melbourne, Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Cairns) may only cost around $100 – $250 per person one way (economy class).
• Longer flights and regional destinations (Perth, Broome, Alice Springs) may cost more, at around $300-$500 per person one way (economy class).

You also have to consider the cost of baggage. Most domestic airlines in Australia do not include baggage in the ticket price and you will have to pay an extra fee of about $25 – $50 per flight. 

The most popular domestic airlines in Australia include:

• Jetstar (most affordable)
• Virgin Australia (second most affordable)
• Qantas (most reliable)
• Rex (best for regional flights)

Domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable way to solo travel in Australia. However, flying is more expensive than some other options and you won’t get to see as much of the countryside.

Car and campervan rental

Car rental is another popular way to solo travel in Australia.

The cost of hiring a car in Australia depends on the type of car you hire, your age and any extras:

• Aged 18-21: Most car rental agencies won’t let people younger than 21 hire a car.
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $100 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 
• It costs an average of $50 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 

The most popular car rental companies include Hertz, Enterprise, Europcar, Budget and Avis.

Car and campervan rental is the most flexible way to solo travel in Australia. You can adjust your Australia solo travel itinerary to your liking and see more of the country. However, it is more costly than other transport options.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Best Time to Visit Australia

The best time to solo travel in Australia is between Autumn and Spring because temperatures are reasonable, tourist crowds are minimal and the Tropical North (i.e. Kakadu and the Great Barrier Reef) is more accessible. 

The worst time to solo travel in Australia is summer because temperatures can be scorching, tourist crowds are peaking and parts of the country are inaccessible due to the wet season.

Summer in Australia lasts from December – February. 

During summer, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 18℃ (64℉) to more than 45℃ (113℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during summer, try to stick to the southern parts of the country where the climate is cooler. Avoid the Outback and the wet season in the Northern Tropics.

Good solo travel destinations in summer include the Great Ocean Road, Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

Many tourists travel to Australia during summer, so expect large crowds.

Autumn in Australia lasts from March – May. 

During Autumn, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 12℃ (53℉) to 35℃ (95℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during autumn, try to see the changing foliage and cultural events (food, wine, comedy and sports) in the southern parts of the country. 

Good solo travel destinations in autumn include Tasmania, Melbourne, the Grampians, Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during autumn, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the Easter holidays.

Winter in Australia lasts from June – August. 

During winter, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 0℃ (32℉) to 25℃ (77℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the dry season and visit the Outback and the Northern Tropics. You could also experience the alpine regions in the southeast. 

Good solo travel destinations in winter include Kakadu, the Great Barrier Reef, the Snowy Mountains and the Humpback Highway on the east coast.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during winter, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel to the snow fields during the holidays.

Spring in Australia lasts from September – November.

During spring, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 6℃ (43℉) to 33℃ (91℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the end of the dry season in the Northern Tropics. It is also a great time to see wildflowers in the Outback and visit wineries.

Good solo travel destinations in spring include Uluru, Wave Rock, Adelaide, the Coral Coast, the Mornington Peninsula and the Hunter Valley.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during spring, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the holidays.

Wet Season and Dry Season

In the north of Australia, there are two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.

The wet season lasts from November – April. It is characterised by very hot days, high humidity and monsoonal storms. Much of Kakadu is inaccessible at this time of year due to flooding. It is also best to avoid the Great Barrier Reef as it is stinger season.

The dry season lasts from May – October. It is characterised by clear skies, warm days and cool nights. Visit Kakadu at the start of the dry season to see it whilst it is still lush. It is also a good time to visit the Great Barrier Reef because it is still warm but there are no stingers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Where to Start

The best place to start your solo travel in Australia is in Melbourne. You can fly directly to Melbourne from many of the major international airports around the world. Once you arrive, you can adjust to the welcoming metropolitan environment. Then, you can travel north along Australia’s Eastern Coast.

Alternatively, you could fly into Brisbane and catch a connecting flight to Cairns. From Cairns, you could then travel south along the Eastern Coast.

If you wanted to solo travel New Zealand after touring Australia, it is also preferable to finish your trip on the East Coast. From Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, it is only about a 4-hour flight to Auckland.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: How Long to Spend Travelling Australia

The amount of time that you need to solo travel around Australia depends on which route you take. 

The East Coast of Australia can take anywhere from 1-3 months to travel. Whilst it can be done in as little as 1 month, you will only get to see the highlights and have to travel via flight. It is best to spend about 2-3 months and stop at smaller destinations along the way.

If you want to travel the East Coast of Australia and also see The Outback (e.g. Darwin, Kakadu and Uluru), you would need about 3-4 months.

If you wanted to see all of Australia, including the East Coast, The Outback and Western Australia, you would need about 4-6 months.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Costs and Budgeting

On a backpacker budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $115 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hostel dorm rooms, preparing most of your own meals, enjoying up to three alcoholic drinks per night, visiting mostly free or cheap attractions and travelling via public transport and coaches.

On a standard budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $275 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in private hostel or motel rooms, eating out once or twice a day, enjoying up to five alcoholic drinks per night, visiting one paid attraction per day and travelling via public transport and domestic flights.

On a luxury budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $550 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hotels or Airbnb rentals, eating all of your meals out, enjoying a bottle of wine or two per night, visiting two or more paid attractions per day and travelling via Uber, car rental, train or flight.

The average daily costs in the table below are in AUD.

In Australia, the currency used is the Australian dollar ($ AUD). 

Solo travellers can use the following rates (based on a 5-year average) when performing rough conversions:

• $1 AUD = $0.70 USD
• $1 AUD = £0.50 GBP
• $1 AUD = €0.60 EUR
• $1 AUD = $0.90 CAD
• $1 AUD = ¥0.90 JPY

For the most recent conversion rate, use an online currency converter .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Packing List

There are ten essential items that you must add to your solo travel packing list for Australia:

• Flip-flops: The staple footwear of most Australians. Flip flops will prevent you from burning your feet on the scorching hot pavements and beaches in summer.
• Swimsuit: You’ll spend the majority of your solo travel in Australia swimming on coastal beaches or in Outback swimming holes. Bring a good pair of swimmers.
• Beach towel: In summer, the sand on the beach in Australia can reach temperatures of over 50℃ (122℉) and cause burns. Protect your skin with a beach towel.
• Mosquito repellent: Mosquitos are a problem all over Australia, particularly in the tropical north where they can transmit diseases. Prevent bites with repellent.
• Hydrocortisone anti-scratch cream: You will inevitably be bitten by mosquitos in Australia. Calm the itching with hydrocortisone cream.
• Australian adapter: You have to use a plug-type I adaptor to power your appliances when you solo travel in Australia and New Zealand . 
• Plastic bags: After a trip to the beach, carry your wet clothes around in a plastic bag until you can dry them off that night.
• Sunscreen: In Australia, you can suffer from sunburn in as little as ten minutes. Always slip, slop and slap before enjoying the sun.
• Hat: Sunscreen alone is not always enough to protect your skin from the harsh sun in Australia. Protect your face and neck with a hat.
• Pullover: It’s not always scorching hot in Australia. Temperatures often dip below 0℃ (32℉) in the southern states during winter. Wrap up, particularly at night.

Don’t leave anything behind. Before travelling Australia alone, use my solo travel packing list for males or solo travel packing list for females .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Safety

Is Australia safe to travel alone?

Solo travel in Australia is very safe for both females and males. Scams, theft and assault are rare. 

Call 000 if you ever need emergency assistance. Cities and towns are patrolled by police and ambulance services are fast to respond.

However, solo travellers should still remain cautious of the following dangers.

Snakes are active in Australia from Spring to Autumn. It is highly unlikely that you will come across a snake during your solo travels. Try to avoid them by making noise, wearing covered footwear and sticking to well-used trails when bushwalking. If you do come across a snake, back away without taking your eyes off it.

Spiders are a concern in Australia throughout the year. You will likely come across spiders during your solo travels. Avoid spiders by shaking out your shoes and clothing before putting them on. Never reach into piles of foliage or places where spiders may live.

In the north of Australia, you need to be aware of crocodiles and jellyfish. Never swim at the beach or in fresh water sources unless there is signage indicating that it is safe to do so. Avoid approaching the edge of the water and keep your distance from crocodile slide marks. Crocodiles are stealth predators and very fast runners over short distances.

Sharks are rarely a danger to swimmers in Australia. However, you can reduce your risk of encountering a shark by swimming close to the shore and between the flags at patrolled beaches. Avoid swimming at dusk or dawn. If you do see a shark, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible.

Mosquitos are a health risk and can spread disease in Australia (particularly in northern Queensland). Protect yourself when solo travelling by covering up with long-sleeve tops and pants when outside. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Mosquitoes are worst at dusk and dawn. 

Heat and sun

During summer, temperatures in Australia can reach more than 45℃ (113℉). You must stay well hydrated to avoid heat stroke. Try to drink about 2.5L (0.5 gals) of water per day whilst you solo travel.

Australia also has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world. Your skin can burn in as little as ten minutes if you don’t properly protect yourself from the sun. Always wear sunscreen when spending more than half an hour outside. On particularly hot days, try to cover up with a hat and long sleeves. 

One of the biggest dangers to tourists in Australia is drowning whilst swimming. Whilst Australia’s beaches are beautiful, the surf is powerful and strong currents can be deadly. Only go swimming in Australia if you are a confident swimmer. And only swim on beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards, staying between the red and yellow flags. 

As mentioned above, you also need to be cautious of crocodiles, jellyfish and sharks when swimming in Australia. Always read the safety signage.

The biggest danger to tourists in Australia is driving and road safety. Drivers often get tired because of the long distances between destinations.

If you plan on driving whilst you solo travel in Australia, break long journeys into small chunks. Stop for a day or two in the regional towns between the major destinations.

Also, ensure that you have filled your car with enough fuel for the journey. Fuel stations can be few and far between in Australia, particularly in the outback.

Solo female safety

Solo female travellers in Australia should generally feel safe throughout their trip. However, as per usual, you should follow these solo travel safety tips .

Less than 1.5% of female travellers in Australia report witnessing or experiencing harassment, abuse or assault during their stay (according to the data above). However, young females as a demographic tend to suffer the most harassment.

See this article on solo travel safety in Australia for more information.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Visas and Entry Requirements

International tourists will need a valid visa to enter Australia. You must apply for a visa before leaving your home country. You’ll also need to meet the designated financial and medical requirements and maintain health insurance for the duration of your trip.

There are several different types of Australian tourist visas. The visa that you apply for will depend on the length of your solo travel in Australia, your passport, your age and whether or not you want to work whilst you travel:

• Visitor visa (600): Visit Australia for tourism for up to three months (or up to 12 months in certain circumstances). Open to all nationalities.
• Electronic Travel Authority visa (601): Visit Australia as often as you want in a 12-month period. You can stay up to 3 months each time you enter Australia. Only available to certain nationalities.
• Working Holiday Visa (417): People aged 18 to 30 years old (or 35 years old for some countries) can visit Australia for up to 12 months and do short-term work to fund their trip. Can only be used once but you can apply for a second Working Holiday visa if you do three months of specified work. Only available to certain nationalities.

Related Posts

Is Australia Safe to Travel Alone? 15 Dangers to Beware

New Zealand Solo Travel – Adventure Itinerary & Guide (2023)

New Zealand Solo Trip Cost (2023)

More solo travel guides and tips on nomadic yak.

You now know almost everything you need to know about travelling solo to Australia!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

For even more information about solo travel in Australia, see our solo travel tips .

We also have destination guides to help you plan solo travel in nearby countries such as New Zealand.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

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El Questro Wilderness Park, Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

7 enriching solo holidays in Australia

Solo travel continues to grow in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. What better way to take a step back, focus on your own needs and wellness, or challenge yourself to try something new? Australia is just the place to take time to travel alone.

By Sarah Reid

There are many different reasons travellers choose to adventure on their own, and there’s no country better to do it in than Australia thanks to our world-class tourism infrastructure, experiences tailored to solo travellers, welcoming locals and operators, and easy-to-navigate transport networks. 

So, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, spend some quality time alone to turn your attention inward, press the reset button, or challenge yourself, here are 7 solo holiday options to inspire your next adventure.

Travel slow on the Ghan

The Ghan, MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory © Great Southern Rail

The Ghan was named in honour of cameleers from Afghanistan who worked in remote outback Australian communities from the 1860s to the 1930s.

The Ghan , which travels between Adelaide , the capital of South Australia , through the Red Centre to Darwin in the Northern Territory over three days, is as classic as Australian rail journeys go, and is an ideal trip to embark on solo; travel in stylish comfort while enjoying the wide open spaces of the outback, allowing you plenty of time to contemplate, reflect and relax.

All-inclusive and equipped with Gold Service Single , solo travellers are well catered for with the luxury the Ghan is famous for. You can choose to meet other passengers in the communal spaces, enjoy conversation with fellow travellers over a delicious gourmet meal or drink, and take part in the off-train experiences in the Northern Territory towns of Alice Springs and Katherine , or you can simply sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet, and stunning scenery. 

If, after your trip, you get the taste for solo train travel, single berths are available on other iconic Australian rail journeys, too, including the Great Southern , The Overland and the Indian Pacific , offering additional opportunities to marvel at Australia’s mesmerising landscapes on your own.

Immerse yourself in the spirituality of Ulu r u

Sounds of Silence, Uluṟu, Northern Territory © Voyages

Visiting Uluru , Australia’s most sacred rock, is a profound experience for many travellers, and heading there on your own couldn’t be easier. All accommodation, restaurants and tour booking offices are based in and around the town of Yulara, just nine kilometres (six miles) from Ayers Rock Airport in the Northern Territory. So all you need to do is fly in, check into your hotel or campsite, and choose your own Uluṟu adventure from the many options available. 

If the aim of your solo adventure is to go at your own pace and take the time to connect with the country around you, then a good option is to hire a car at the airport. From there, you can explore the trails and lookout points in nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park , enjoying the opportunity to absorb this deeply spiritual landscape. If you prefer to meet other travellers, you can take the Hop On Hop Off shuttle that stops at all resorts and points of interest in the park. 

Come evening, the Sounds of Silence dinner experience – where guests sit at communal tables under the stars – was made for mingling and is a great experience for solo adventurers.

Take time for yourself in Byron Bay

Elements of Byron Bay, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Calling all yogis

Interested in doing yoga teacher training on your travels? Local favourite studio Creature Yoga offers a range of courses.

If you’re seeking a holiday away from life’s distractions, this northern New South Wales coastal town might be just the place for you. Australia’s unofficial wellness capital, Byron Bay is jam-packed with yoga studios, delicious farm-to-table and organic restaurants and cafés, alternative gyms, healers, massage centres and more, offering the perfect opportunity to take time out to nourish your mind and body on your own schedule. 

It goes without saying that nature is good for the soul, and opportunities to spend time in nature abound in Byron and surrounds. From verdant green hinterland, to wide open beaches and lush ancient rainforests, you’re certain to feel everyday worries wash away in Byron, allowing you to find your balance and serenity.

Check into a Gold Coast wellness retreat

Eden Health Retreat, Currumbin Valley, Queensland © Eden Health Retreat

Wellness retreats provide the perfect opportunity to revive and refresh, and are tailored perfectly for solo travellers. Whether you’re setting a personal health challenge, focusing on getting fit, taking time to find your balance and restore your mental health, or simply want some alone time to recharge your batteries, Australia is home to some of the world’s best wellness retreats. 

Retreats don’t mean you have to go without though. Two of the most luxe, Gwinganna and Eden , are set in the lush subtropical Gold Coast hinterland in south-east Queensland . Both combine gourmet dining with wellness therapies – everything from yoga to spa treatments, nature walks to mindfulness sessions. Group activities and communal meals offer great opportunities to socialise.

Tackle Tasmania’s Three Capes Track

Three Capes Track, Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania © Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service

Nothing beats the fresh air, beautiful landscapes and sense of achievement you get from tackling serious hiking trails, plus it’s a wonderful opportunity to focus on you and your surrounds, and not life’s distractions. Tasmania offers some world-famous multi-day hikes that are great options for solo travellers. 

The Three Capes Track , which traces the soaring cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula just south of Hobart , is a fantastic option for solos. With only 48 hikers allowed on this well-maintained trail each day, you can immerse yourself in nature, knowing that some of the nicest hiking huts in the state await (with on-site rangers to chat to, if you want some company). Like your walking experiences a little more luxe? Consider booking one of the guided treks across the state with the Tasmanian Walking Company , which maintains private eco-lodges along its hiking routes.

Cruise the Kimberley

Lake Argyle, Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

If you like the idea of solo adventuring with the benefit of seeing a variety of places and an easy way to meet other travellers, a small-ship cruise along Western Australia’s breathtaking Kimberley Coast , between Darwin and Broome , could be the perfect fit for you. 

With most expeditions lasting 10 to 14 days, it’s enough time to really get to know your fellow cruise mates (if you want), and with itineraries packed with scenic walks, waterfall swims, visiting Aboriginal art sites and more, you’ll get the chance to experience Western Australia’s vast and stunning landscape with ease. Small ships including the Eco Abrolhos and the Reef Price offer particularly good deals for solos, charging single supplements of just 10 per cent and 20 per cent respectively if you’d prefer to have your own room.

Take a self-guided cultural tour of Canberra

National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Visit Canberra

Some people happily breeze through galleries and museums, while others take hours to soak up all that art and history. That’s why cultural city breaks are among the most rewarding trips to make alone; you can go at your own pace. 

Canberra , home to the National Gallery of Australia – which houses the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art – is a great place to start. The national capital is easy to get around on foot or by public transport, and the city has no lack of culinary options after a long days’ sightseeing. Consider bedding down at the hip Ovolo Nishi , where you can mingle with other guests over a free sundowner during the daily “social hour” if you want company, or help yourself to the complimentary in-room mini-bar if you prefer to reflect on your day alone.

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• Tailor Made

Solo Travel To Australia

Small group adventures for solo travellers.

Australia East Coast Highlights - 21 Days

• Sydney to Cairns
• Age range: 18 - 35
• Group size: 24

Ultimate Sydney - 7 Days

• Sydney to Sydney
• Group size: 30

East Coast Australia - 36 Days

East Coast Reefs and Beaches - 15 Days

• Group size: 16

Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns - 16 Days

• Age range: 18 - 39
• Group size: 20

Ultimate Australia Working Holiday Arrival Package - 8 Days

Oz East Coast Adventure - 28 Days

• Group size: 22

Oz East Coast Adventure - 20 Days

• Brisbane to Cairns

Are you thinking about travelling to Australia alone? Why not consider joining one of our small group tours? If you're thinking being led around with someone holding a flag think again! These are modern, immersive and fun adventure holidays giving you an experience you'll never forget!

On average, 50% of those who book with us are solo travellers. Each small group is made up of typically between 8 and 14 people with a mix of gender and age. The average age varies depending upon the particular adventure.

You'll have a guide who will help introduce everybody on day one before you embark on your holiday adventure. Included in the price is the guide, accommodation, often meals and activates as well as any gear, each specific adventure page will provide details.

During the adventure there is plenty of free time and no obligation to spend every minute of every day together. Below are some ideas and some examples of the adventures we have but please browse our website and do get in touch! We have an expert team on hand to help at ay time.

Hassle-free adventures

Our aim is to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible to experience unique trips at the best price, no matter if you travel on your own or as part of a group. You will be able to socialise, meet new people but also have some time to yourself throughout the holiday.  

Accommodation made easy

We try to make this part as simple as possible. You will be paired with another traveller of the same sex to share a room during your adventures so you won’t have to pay anything extra. If you prefer your own room you can pay a little extra (we work hard to keep this as little we can) which we can arrange after making your booking, just let us know. 

Authentic and affordable trips

We try to work with as many local providers as possible. It means we can offer you the biggest range of adventures and it enables you to see countries in a more unique and authentic way. Plus, we can keep the cost of the trip down by cutting out the middle man! 

We work hard with our suppliers to minimize extra costs like single room supplements for solo travellers.

Like-minded travellers

Most trips are guided in small groups, usually made up of between 10 and 15 people. In these groups, half or more will be fellow solo travellers. You get to meet like-minded people who all have the same sense of adventure and thirst for exploring. You'll have a local tour leader to look after all of the group’s needs and logistics and ensure you have the best experience while you are away.

Independent travel

If you like to travel a bit more independently, we have a selection of tours that are self-guided. We will equip you with all the things you may need for your adventure and you can explore at your own pace. Again, we try to keep any single supplements as low as possible by working closely with our local partners.  

Adventure Holidays For Singles

If you're single this type of holiday is fantastic, we would say that but they really are. We have loads of trips for different age ranges and interests. The small group adventures offer a social holiday for singles which provide an immediate group (or squad) to explore with. You'll certainly make friends for life. 

Hope to hear from you soon.

How do I meet everyone in the group?

You'll meet everyone face to face on day one, typically meeting in your accommodation reception or bar at 18:00 but this can differ. The guide will be there too to provide some information and help with everyone getting to know one another.

Will I have my own room?

You can either share with someone of the same gender or if you'd prefer your own room you can select your room and pay a little more during the booking process.

Are there activities every day?

Each adventure will contain a mix of travel, experiences and free time. The idea is not to rush but to enjoy! there is enough that the children will be entertained!

Is the guide with us all the time?

When you're travelling then typically yes and for activities too. During free time the guide will not be with you but is always contactable.

What is the accommodation like?

The accommodation is usually 3 or 4 star. More details are on each trip page or in the brochure. You can always speak to our team who can provide much more information.

Are vegetarian food options available?

Yes, vegetarian food options are available on all tours. The guide can also point out great places to eat if meals are not included in the tour price.

Can I talk to someone to find out more?

Of course, we have an expert team on hand to talk to you. 

Please contact us if you'd like to find out more by telephoning: UK - 44 0208 004 8886 US - 1 917 472-9385 All - 0333 006 2683 or email us on [email protected] or submit an enquiry on the website and we'll be in touch.

Will we require a Visa?

Maybe yes. Please see the latest travel advice from the FCO. 

Why book with The Adventure People?

You may be thinking ‘why should I book with The Adventure People?’. Here are just some of the reasons we stand out:

The Best Value

Not only are our prices usually the best in the market but our leading service coupled with the financial protections we offer mean you won’t find better value anywhere else.

Your Dedicated Travel Expert

Our travel team is the best in the business and we’re not just saying that. The moment you make an enquiry we’ll pair you with your own dedicated expert who is on hand to answer your questions, look after your booking and make sure you have a fantastic time.

No Waiting Times

We only have one phone number with no automated services. When you contact us you’re straight through to a member of our team and a human! 

Financial Protection

We are ATOL certified, members of ABTA and run a Trust account for our packages ensuring you’re fully financially protected. 

Flexible Payments

We offer low deposits and monthly payment plans at no extra cost. 

We can add flights to any trip you book with us and we’re happy to help with Round The World tickets!

Accommodation

We work with wonderful accommodation providers and our team can quote almost any hotel in the world at the best prices.

Transfers & Extras

We can easily add airport transfers or extras to any booking. Our team will always quote the best possible price and be able to update your booking.

Speak To Our Team

Call or email our expert team to find out more and help with ideas and planning.

Call to add flights or build a tailor-made adventure

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What Our Customers Say

Trust the adventure people.

Communication was excellent both by email and over the phone, everyone I had contacted followed and actioned my request or answered my question politely and efficiently.

Would definitely recommend this company.

The staff are super helpful and friendly and always answer e-mails as soon as they can.

Trip achieved all my expectations!

The tour that I booked with The Adventure People met all my expectations. The local agent in Vietnam kept in regular contact with me during my trip. All of the connections worked perfectly. The hotels were all of a good standard and comfortable as well as being in a good location. Would definitely use them again

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A complete guide to solo travel in Australia

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

Solo travel in Australia is a dream on many peoples bucket lists and well, it is not hard to see why,

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whatever it is, if you’re looking for a guide to solo travel in Australia, look no further. I got you!

I’ve solo travelled through Australia on 4 (fortunate) occasions now and so in this travel guide, I am going to share with you all the tips, tricks and knowledge I have from my solo travel in Australia.

Get your pen and paper at the ready, by the end of this post you will have all the inspiration ready to book your solo trip to Australia.  You will not regret it!

Other blog posts/guides you may find useful:

• Australia Travel Guide
• Farm work in Australia: Finding a job, top tips and advice
• Visiting Fraser Island and The Whitsundays: Australia on a backpacker budget
• A guide to freedom camping on the east coast of Australia
• Hiring a camper van in Australia and New Zealand: Your questions answered
• A complete guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• 13 ways to save money whilst backpacking Australia

My complete guide to solo travel in Australia…

Whether you are planning a 3-week solo trip, a couple of months travelling or even a whole year on a  Working Holiday Visa , Australia is a world-class location to do all three in. I don’t even know where to start luring you in with adventures I’ve been on here; I’ve had  so many  incredible ones. Here are a few blog posts to get you started…

• The best things to do in Australia
• Cairns to Sydney: The alternative East Coast Australia bucket list

It’s in Australia that you’ll be able to sail the beautiful  Whitsunday Islands , snorkel or scuba dive on the  Great Barrier Reef , explore  Fraser Island ,  Skydive , hang out in  Sydney  or  Melbourne  and of course visit the ultimate surf town of  Byron Bay…  and you can do it all solo!

Solo travel in Australia is so easy, particularly when compared to other countries so don’t worry about meeting people, being on your own or not having people to travel with. Australia is a haven for solo travellers. I’d say its one of my top 3 recommendations for a first-time solo traveller.

For the ultimate East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

For an alternative East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Is solo travelling popular in Australia?

The answer is a massive  YES .

If you’re part of the Global Travellers Facebook group ( join here ), you’ll see that the majority of the conversations about Australia are all about solo travel and even arranging meet-ups. There are SO many people doing it and there’s so many of you in the same boat – it’s just about putting yourself in the right places to find eachother.  I got you!

I’m sure many will vouch for me when I say,  ‘the moment you arrive in Australia, you realise how easy it is to navigate solo’.

I get it though, it’s a daunting thought going it alone and so it might seem super tempting to join, say a 30-day organised group tour instead. Group tours have their place in Australia for sure and if you really need to ease yourself in with an ‘intro’ one – by all means rock it. However you can end up paying  a lot  for these tours and then wishing you’d been smarter with your pennies.

Instead, I’d recommend simply booking small bits of your trips separately, e.g. transport, hostels and some of the main tours. All of the latter are all set up in a way that allows for backpackers to be spontaneous if they want. Then step out of your comfort zone, take a leap of faith and go solo travelling in Australia!

If you change your mind, you can always book onto a group tour when you’re there but… I believe in you!

Don’t forget!  My good friend Sammy owns  RatPack Travel  (a discounted booking platform for Australia and New Zealand Travels). They can help you…

– find the best prices and options for transport, trips and tours around the all the key destinations in Australia – create a personalized travel calendar with recommendations for your trip – answer any questions you may have – have an incredible time!

Click here  to send  RatPack  a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and to get the ball rolling.

Don’t forget you can use my code  MOLLIE10  for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make.

How do I meet people in Australia?

Sometimes you’re just in the right place at the right time but sometimes just have to get out of your comfort zone and simply say hello.

All of the hostels are totally geared up for solo travellers. The best way to meet people in hostels is at the organised events, in your room (choose a larger mixed dorm to meet people!), or in the common areas. If there’s a BBQ or a beer pong tournament, join in, and I am sure you’ll not only have a great time, but you’ll also meet awesome people. The best tip I can give you is to just  smile and say hello  or even compliment someone on how good their food smells if you’re in the kitchen.

It’s worth remembering that you’re all in the same boat; chances are other solo travellers are feeling just as nervous as you are. Be the one to make the first move (not in a creepy way haha).

Typically solo travellers and travellers in general coming to Australia will travel the east coast from Sydney to Cairns (or vice versa).  This is the most popular route to take.  So whether your travel dates tie in with new found friends or not, it’s not uncommon to bump into people several times along the coast! You become like one big family.

If you know your dates or locations, pop a message on the  Global Travellers Facebook group  and I have no doubt you’ll find a travel buddy to meet up with!

Worried about making friends while you’re solo travelling?  Here are all my top tips!

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before,  click here for my hostel top tips and hostel packing essentials!

Should I go on group tours and experiences when I solo travel in Australia?

Absolutely! Like I said before… group tours definitely have their place in Australia.

For example when it comes to the likes of the  Whitsundays  or  Fraser Island  – group tours are second to none. 3 days with a group of backpackers in  amazing locations, full of fun and incredible experiences  is definitely going to bond you. You might even find you’ll be travelling in the same direction as others following the trip and  you’ll have a new travel buddy ! 

Some of my favourite memories and bonds have been on these group tours in Australia. I’d definitely say get a Whitsundays group tour and Fraser Island group tour on your Australia bucket list.

Booking the Whitsundays:

The  Whitsundays sailing  tours leave from Airlie Beach and, depending on which boat you’ll choose, you’ll find yourself with a group of travellers from all over the world in a similar age range. The day times will be full of sailing, exploring beaches, snorkelling and the evenings are full of fun and drinks under the stars. You’ll be sharing large cabins with other backpackers on the tour as well as spending every day together, you’ll have  instant friends  and… people to help you get THE perfect shot!

See my guide to booking the best Whitsundays boat for you  here.

Don’t forget you can use my code MOLLIE10 for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make with  RatPack Travel .

Booking Fraser Island:

Oh, Fraser Island.  If you go on one of the 4WD Tag Along tours, you’ll be in convoy of 4 jeeps with 7 people in each 4WDs. Road trip goals. Have an epic road trip playlist ready that includes some classic singalongs! Over the 3 days, you’ll be driving on beach highways, swimming in freshwater lakes and camping under the stars .  Just like the Whitsundays, you’ll share accommodation, transport and spend every day with the group. It’s the perfect way to meet other backpackers who also love to explore. 

See my guide to booking the best Fraser Island trip for you here.

See my solo travel vs. booking onto group tours blog post here if you still can’t decide which route to take.

Is solo travel in Australia safe?

I’ve always felt very safe in Australia when I’ve been travelling. The people here are kind and the cities are safe. Obviously, just like anywhere you travel, always have your wits about you and don’t put yourself in any situations that you wouldn’t at home. As a rule of thumb, I keep in touch with my family when I’m travelling and make sure I have data and battery on my phone (a power bank is really useful to travel with!)

Check out  my top tips for solo travel as a female in this blog post.

See my top tips for staying safe when travelling solo  here.

How do I get around Australia?

I travelled by bus the first time I travelled around Australia. It was so easy and convenient, and every bus was full of backpackers sharing stories and tips. I got the  Greyhound Hop on Hop off  bus pass which basically allowed me to travel from Sydney to Cairns on any Greyhound bus and stopped off at all the destinations I wanted to visit, it’s  definitely a way of travelling I’d recommend for a solo traveller .

Another thing to remember is that domestic flights in Australia are super cheap, so if you are on a short timeframe check out  Skyscanner  or  Jetstar  for flights.

If you prefer a bit of freedom, why not book a campervan through RatPack and road trip it!? I hired one from Sammy at RatPack when I did a  5-day Great Ocean Road road trip.

• See my guide to planning your transport in Australia here.
• Check out my guide to Greyhound buses in Australia here.
• If you want to find out more about hiring a camper in Australia, click here.

If you opt for the Greyhound bus pass, instead of booking direct,  click here  and use the code  MOLLIE10  for 10% off the direct rate with RatPack Travel. You can also use the discount for campers!

How much of my trip to Australia should I plan?

As a solo traveller, I always like to have a rough idea of where I’m going and what I’m doing. For Australia the choice is yours however I’d say it’s  pretty essential to pre-plan your trip if you are going in the peak season (November – February).  The popular trips trips get booked up around 3-4 weeks in advance during peak time. With everything else you can be super flexible with and keep it spontaneous.

What happens if things go wrong?

Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, there is always scope for plans to change or things to go ‘wrong’. The first thing to do is to not panic; there’s always a solution! It’s pretty normal when travelling to be faced with a few hurdles, be it weather affecting your plans, suddenly feeling lonely or needing to go and see a doctor.  See my advice for feeling homesick when travelling here.

Medically, if you need to see a doctor urgently, the emergency number is  000.  Save it to your phone! Find hospitals near you  here . If you need to see a GP for something less urgent, most are open Monday-Friday 9-5, but you’ll need to book an appointment (it’ll cost 50-70 AUD). Make sure you get  travel insurance  – medical bills in Australia add up  really  quickly!

If you ever feel lonely,  don’t forget  that your family and friends are a quick WhatsApp or FaceTime away. The best way to overcome loneliness is to put yourself out there and socialise at the hostel events or common areas or join a tour with other backpackers. Don’t be scared though; feeling nervous before travelling is normal. Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do.  Get the flight booked and let the adventure begin…

The weather can’t be controlled, but try and check the forecast regularly before you make concrete plans, and if the weather calls off an activity you really wanted to do, embrace the storm and do that activity another day!

Top tip :  RatPack Travel  are the only agent that offers 100% full refund on any cancelled trips due to weather. RatPack knows that travelling sometimes isn’t perfect so if a big old storm rolls in and cancels your trip, you can expect all your money back.

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP RATPACK TRAVEL NOW (+61 490 149 348)

Looking for more top tips for solo travel in Australia?

Check out my video below, or my complete guide to  budgeting for backpacking through Australia here !

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Have you solo travelled in Australia?

What are your top tips? I’d love to know about your experience!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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We’re a multiple award-winning tour company exclusively dedicated to making travel easy and affordable for solos everywhere. So you can spread your wings and share amazing experiences with like-minded people. No couples and no families. Plus when you travel with us, you’ll always have your own room or cabin. Check out our group tours and get in touch to find out more.

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20 out of 10.

The trip was just great - I can't really think of any negatives. Diane will back me up when I say I usually give 10/10s - I gave her 20/10. Trish, Canada/Alaska

Excellent trip

I found the overall trip excellent. I believe Diane's professionalism, inclusive personality and ability to relate to all contributed to this. She worked to ensure the group was cohesive without individuals impinging on the personal space of others etc. a good skill to have and one she applied effectively. Kate, Canada/Alaska

Fantastic value for money

Fantastic value for money paid. Russell our guide is an asset to your company... he was fantastic! Overall the trip was magical from start to finish. Well done Two's a Crowd ... the best trip ever. Barbara, Canada/Alaska

Fantastic first solo trip

I had a fantastic trip. Absolutely loved Canada and Alaska. It's the first time I have travelled solo and was pleasantly surprised to find a bunch of people that all got on so well. Diane our host was great. She did a good job of getting us altogether for meals, excursions, shopping trips etc. I liked that she quietly got things done without being loud or "in-your-face". She was good at being one of us as well as our leader. Wendy, Canada/Alaska

Good balance of activities and spare time

Had a great time. Good mixture of organised activities and spare time. Diane was an excellent tour host. Russell the tour guide was great, very knowledgeable and personable with his insights into growing up and living in Canada. Sharon, Canada/Alaska

Well organised trip with an excellent host

The trip was well organised, with a good mix of activity and free time. The scenery was spectacular and fellow travellers were a great bunch. Diane is a excellent host - helpful, courteous and above all a pleasure to know. I found her bubbly personality a bonus and can only speak highly of her. Gary, Canada/Alaska

I had a fabulous time

I had a fabulous time. Lake Louise and the hotel were magnificent. The cruise was excellent. Diane made sure that she was available for group meals and sightseeing, and was alway in good humour and great fun. I would recommend your company to everyone and am very interested in the Scandinavia  tour at the end of 2017.

Cathy, Adelaide - Canada/Alaska May 2016

Great holiday

What a great trip! I experienced so much and participated in all that was offered. I had read and reviewed as much as time allowed me but was not prepared for what the trip gave me and that is a better understanding of the beautiful people of both countries. - Lesley on Vietnam/Cambodia

In good company

I thought the suggestions for optional things to do, in the "free" time were very good. So good, we really ended up with very little free time. So much to do! - Mary on Vietnam

Great time together

I found the trip interesting and eye opening with a great overview of both Vietnam and Cambodia. The other travellers on the trip were fabulous and we had a great time together. - Anonymous on Vietnam/Cambodia

Fantastic first experience!

Extremely well organised with fabulous guides throughout - especially in Vietnam! First holiday with your company and certainly not the last. - Glenys on Vietnam

Great group to travel with

Having a small group meant that the days were more relaxed and flexible and I really felt spoilt and looked after. Melinda on Borneo

Thoroughly enjoyed Uganda

Thoroughly enjoyed my trip especially Uganda. There was so much variety of things to do on this trip. Jaros & Julius were great. Thought in Kenya the Maasai Mara were beautiful people, so easy to get along with. Judy

Can’t stop talking about my experience

I just feel so privileged to have shared with the Maasai the most awe-inspiring majestic sights and sounds of Africa. The fantastic memories will be with me forever. Maureen

Absolutely enjoyable

Gillian was a fantastic host. She was there for us from the moment we reached Hotel Troy. Heather on Africa

Best holiday I’ve been on!

One of the best holidays that I have been on - really well organised. I would never have travelled to Vietnam or Cambodia on my own. Bronwyn

Well organised

Fun, well organised and a really great group. Barbara on Vietnam/Cambodia

I found the trip interesting and eye opening with a great overview of both Vietnam and Cambodia. The other travellers on the trip were fabulous and we had a great time together.

Great value

Well done. No complaints. Very pleased with this trip. Great value for my hard earned dollars! Really enjoyed the [Vietnam/Cambodia] tour. 

Fabulous rapport filled with much humour!

A great bunch of people & I can't believe how we all had such a fabulous rapport filled with much humour!!!

I couldn’t fault anything.

The (Uniworld River) cruise was great, I met up with some wonderful people who treated me like part of the family ! The ship & crew were fantastic & the excursions were very good, I couldn't fault anything. I'd recommend this cruise to anyone.  Peter

Informative and educational

The entire trip was one of the most enjoyable and exciting. Also so informative and educational. I was so pleased to make the trip. Wish I was over there in that magical place.  Marjorie

I’ve just returned from the wonderful Kimberley trip.  It was my first experience with Two’s a Crowd and I was delighted.  Kay

Opportunity to experience

I have had the opportunity to experience things I would never had done by myself.  Solo travellers is a fantastic concept and use of social media has been a great way to share and keep in touch with friends and family. Judi

I need not have worried

Being my first tour and a senior member, I admit I was apprehensive but I need not have worried. It was great and I was very well looked after.  Can’t wait to go to Kenya with Two’s a Crowd.  Maureen

Smooth and seamless

A memorable trip of a lifetime, a wish fulfilled.  A fascinating cultural country steeped in history which I found totally enthralling.  Two’s a Crowd service was smooth and seamless.  Pam

A wonderful experience

It was a wonderful experience visiting Cambodia and Vietnam and gave me a better understanding of these countries. I had a great time with new friends, we had a good bunch and Leonie was the perfect host. Eric

Value for money

Value for money and outstanding co-operation from your staff and tour operators. Joan

Safe and secure and totally looked after

An awesome adventure for my first time overseas alone.  Leonie was excellent and both guides were also fantastic.  At all times I felt safe and secure and totally looked after.  Melinda

Well done Two’s a Crowd.

Leonie was an excellent host, the ideal person. I never felt any pressure to  be involved in every activity so I could explore alone during free time. Having 2 or 3 nights in most places was great – you could rest up or party. Well done Two’s a Crowd. Jenny

A completely different experience

It was a nice surprise holiday, a completely different experience from all my other holidays. Thanks. Piroska

I’ve had at least 10 travel agents.

In my travelling life, I’ve had at least 10 travel agents.  Two’s a Crowd is the first one where I haven’t had to correct anything in my travel documents.   Piroska

I’m so excited to have found you Two’s a Crowd.

“Finally. A travel company is recognising the needs of people like me”

This is perfect for me.

“I’ve been to Burma but can you please send me some information about other destinations. This is perfect for me.”

I really wanted to meet the people behind it

“I saw your ad in the local paper and could have phoned but I wanted to come in and congratulate you on starting this great business. I really wanted to meet the people behind it.”

Two’s a Crowd on the internet was definitely meant to be!

I’m really enthusiastic about the niche you are determined to cover in the market, and have the feeling stumbling on Two’s a Crowd on the internet was definitely meant to be.

I find them inspirational

Thanks for sending these emails as I find them inspirational and will sit dreaming for the next hour or so.

Thank you for providing a service for people like me

“I am very excited to read about your area of speciality, and look forward to devouring all information that might come my way. Thank you for providing a service for people like me.”

Excellent throughout.

The entire 14 days ran so smoothly from Two's a Crowd booking my flights to  airport transfers and then the 12 days camping in the Kimberley. Excellent throughout. Congratulations. Marjorie

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Australia Singles Holidays & Solo Tours

Escorted holidays to Australia designed exclusively for solo travellers

Singles Holidays & Solo Tours to Australia

Australia Escorted Tours for Solo Travellers

When you think of Australia, what’s the first thing that pops into your head? Sydney and the Opera House? Kangaroos and koala bears? Vegemite sandwiches and Men at Work blaring out of the radio (we know we’re guilty of this one!)? Whatever springs to mind, get ready to have your expectations completely overturned. Australia isn’t so much a country as it is a way of life. The sights you’ll see are beyond belief; in the morning, the Great Barrier Reef comes to life in a blaze of colour, and at sunset (and sunrise!) you'll have the privilege of watching Uluru change its colour from a rich burnt orange to a dramatic fiery red. If it’s once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty in Australia.

Love the thought of a solo adventure down under but want excursions and mealtimes to be a sociable affair? Here’s how you can have it all. At Just You, we believe in bringing like-minded solo travellers together – in fact, it’s at the very heart of our ethos! Which is why the Australia singles tours we offer are hand-crafted to suit a wide range of visitors, from wildlife enthusiasts to landmark lovers to culture vultures. With us, you’ll have as much time to explore the iconic sights of Australia’s major cities as you will to enjoy the swathes of sandy beach lining the enchanting East Coast. Tour Australia with Just You for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most breath-taking countries!

We’re delighted to have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. 

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Featured Australia Solo Escorted Tour Holidays

Australian highlights.

Iconic cities, famous landmarks and natural wonders are yours to discover on an incredible journey from Sydney to Melbourne.

• Return flights
• 19 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, 3 nights in flight
• 23 meals: 19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners including welcome drink

Australian Highlights with New Zealand add-on

Iconic cities, famous landmarks and natural wonders are yours to discover on an incredible journey from Sydney to Melbourne. Explore the beauty and grandeur of New Zealand after your holiday in Australia. Visiting both countries in one trip will certainly make for a holiday of a lifetime. Choose this add on and you will join the Breathtaking New Zealand tour in Auckland.

• Return flights from London
• 19 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels plus 2 nights in flight
• 24 meals: 19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners including welcome drink

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SOLO GUIDED HOLIDAYS IN AUSTRALIA

• Sydney Opera House - a masterpiece of 20th century architecture. It's exceptional engineering, unparalleled design and construction make it a world-famous icon.
• The Blue Mountains - Beautiful mountains with great view points.
• Three Sisters rock formation - rock formations that represent three sisters - Meehni, Wimlah and Gunnedoo who were turned into stone according to Aboriginal folk law.
• Kakada National Park - One of the largest national parks in Australia, covering almost 20,000,000 Hectares.
• Ayers Rock (Uluru) - This natural aboriginal landmark is thought to have been formed by ancestral beings during the Dreaming. Uluru has numerous caves and fissures which the Aboriginals believe were formed due to their ancestors actions in the Dreaming.
• Kangaroo Island - An abundance of wildlife awaits you, from Koalas to kangaroos to sea lions and seals to many birds.
• Great Ocean Road - one of the most scenic road trips you'll evert have.
• Adelaide - Looking for some good nightlife, then this city is for you. Full of bars and restaurants with something always happening. On the flip side, just a short drive form the centre you can immerse yourself in the outback with its beautiful beaches and fabulous wine regions.
• Great Barrier Reef - The most diverse coral reef ion the world, grab your snorkel and take in the breath-taking beauties of the sea
• Brisbane - The Capital of Queensland offers both a coastline of beaches and a lively city full of bars, restaurants, art galleries, museums and famous brides ideal for view points.
• Have an authentic Aussie BBQ - Eat some snags a drink some Tinnies (hotdogs and beer)"

When we think of Australia we think of throwing another shrimp on the Barbie but although they do love their BBQ’s with plenty of snags (sausages) and meat on them, the Aussies also like a wide variety of food and here are some dishes not to miss!

Keeping on the meat eaters path you could be brave and try some kangaroo? A lean meat that is known for being one of the healthiest meats around! But be prepared to eat it blue, as kangaroo can be as chewy as a boot if it is cooked more than rare. Locals and those that have ventured to try it say the closest comparison is beef.

For those with an appetite you’ll want to try the fully loaded burger. Think of a burger copiously laden with meat, sauce and salad. Now add a ring of pineapple, pickled beetroot and top it off with a freshly fried egg!

For the white meat eaters we have Chicken parmigiana – a lighter, more well-known dish of Italian origin, or Barramundi - Grilled, fried or seared, it’s a much healthier substitute to battered fish and chips, and a true Aussie favourite

Vegetarians can enjoy a slice of vegemite on toast – only joking, there are lots of vegetarian friendly dishes for you to eat in Australia – dishes include mushroom sliders, Eggplant Parmigiana, Pumpkin and ricotta quesadillas, Plant based BBQ’s and much more

For those with a sweet tooth , the Aussies favour pavlova and Lamingtons, sponges dipped in chocolate and covered in coconut – yum yum!

For the adventurous , you can do as the indigenous do and try a Witchetty Grub! The first Australian indigenous tribe have eaten these little fellers for years. They’re supposed to taste like chicken and contain as much protein as an entire piece of steak! Maybe the protein levels can get you past the texture but I think I’ll stick to steak.

Destinations you might also like

New Zealand

New Zealand is a country of two halves where the lush landscapes in the north appeal to visitors’ sense of peace and tranquillity and much more dramatic scenery in the south makes for thrilling experiences.

Canada is one of the world’s most remarkable countries, and it’s easy to see why; with scenery that feels both endless and enchanting.

United States

From the nation’s most spectacular landmarks to its plethora of unique experiences there’s always something ready to take your breath away.

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Australia and New Zealand are perfect destinations for the single traveler; safe, indelibly welcoming, incredibly diverse, and bursting with unique experiences. This handcrafted vacation of a lifetime unveils the best of both countries, sublimely combining iconic cities, unforgettable nature, indigenous culture, Middle Earth, and the continent’s best destinations for solo travelers. Just pack your adventurous spirit and get ready to explore…

Customizable Itinerary

Sydney – welcome to australia.

Gaze from the plane window and admire Sydney, the cityscape flanked by twinkling ocean and dissected by a meandering river. Touch down and smile. You’ve landed in Australia and 16 days of handcrafted adventure awaits. A chauffeur is waiting in arrivals, ready to whisk you away from the airport and into streets that dance with delight and intrigue. The rest of the day is free, giving you a chance to recover from the flight and explore a surprisingly compact and easy to navigate city center.

What's Included:

Sydney – Ultimate Sydney Aerials and Learning to Surf at Bondi Beach

Have a lie-in, if you want. It’s your vacation, so no need to rise to someone else’s schedule. Today is all about Sydney’s most iconic experiences. Start beneath the bridge, gazing up at the exposed spine of metal that connects the two sides of the city. Step by step you ascend Sydney Harbour Bridge, standing on top of the thick steel and peering down on the Opera House and glass-fronted skyscrapers. Climb to the halfway point, admiring the forests and ocean that dazzle in the distance. Stop for photos and slowly descend, the whole Sydney Bridge Climb Experience offering over two hours of unforgettable panoramas and excitement.

Competing with the bridge for world fame is Bondi Beach, a glistening bay of surfers and bronzed bodies soaking up the sun. Is there anywhere more memorable on the planet to try out surfing? An expert instructor teaches the basics with a private lesson, and (hopefully) after two hours you’ll be proudly declaring “I surfed a wave at Bondi Beach!” Relive your day with a sundowner at a bar overlooking the ocean, your first full day is complete and it already feels like you’ve been away for a week.

Sydney – Majestic Beauty in the Blue Mountains

Australia and New Zealand suit many moods, effortlessly taking you through the gears. After yesterday’s excitement there’s a wonderful sense of calm as you journey into the Blue Mountains. A mystical haze hangs over a gaping eucalyptus clad valley, sandstone pinnacles contain provocative Aboriginal narratives, and your small group tour stops at numerous lookout points away from the tourist crowds. This is a day for taking thousands of photos, each angle a subtle reflection of the Blue Mountain’s majestic beauty. It goes without saying that this natural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Easy rainforest walks and an afternoon in a wildlife sanctuary add some additional surprise before you cruise back to Darling Harbour and Sydney on a local boat.

Melbourne – The Chic Delights of Melbourne

Sydney and Melbourne have always been in competition, each city proudly declaring itself the best in Australia. Fortunately, you don’t have to choose. You get both. This itinerary uses domestic flights to connect destinations, with luxury chauffeured transfers taking you to and from the airports. Land in Melbourne and spend the day exploring; cute alleys of boutique shops and cafes, crumbling remains of 19th century Australia, elegant riverside bars, buskers performing on ebullient streets…there’s an unmistakable captivation that finds a way into every heart.

Melbourne – Kangaroos and Koalas in the Wild

Traveling solo is ideal for meeting the locals and these two countries are famed for their welcoming and open residents. You’ll already have met many Australians, their inherent friendliness often coming as a shock to those hailing from more reserved countries. Today you meet more indelible locals, this time those of the marsupial variety. Koalas cling to eucalyptus branches, slowing turning their heads and offering a cute yawn for the camera. Their tranquility and stillness is a sharp contrast to the nearby kangaroos. They group in mobs that skip around the green plains. Rival males rock back onto two legs and start to box, while females tease out adoring local attention. This is not a zoo or wildlife sanctuary experience. The marsupials are living wild in their natural habitat; approach slowly and they’ll happily allow you to get close.

Uluru – Journey to the Red Center and Uluru

Australia begins to change color through the plane window, the green giving way to an endless blanket of scorched red. It’s barren and inhospitable, virtually uninhabited but for a few remaining Aboriginal residents. Rising proud above this landscape is Uluru, the world’s biggest monolith dominating with almost mythical prowess. Some may know it as Ayer’s Rock, but this spiritual Aboriginal rock has been returned to its original indigenous name. Circle the rock and gawp at its size, then sit back and watch sunset unfold, Uluru magically changing through a kaleidoscope of reds and oranges, before the desert descends to darkness and an astonishing sky of stars is revealed. Uluru is not merely a rock in the desert. It’s a place that imbues a deep sense of spirituality and natural beauty, offering a journey into the wilderness that ignites the imagination and soothes the soul.

Cairns – The Tropical Delights of Cairns

Uluru isn’t the only protruding rock on the red horizon. The 36 domes of Kata Tjuta provide an idyllic dawn setting, each glowing ochre red as they're slowly illuminated by the rising sun. Spend the morning immersed in their geological wonder, walking alongside valleys that have deep spiritual meanings. Then it’s off to the airport and an afternoon flight to Cairns, the land turning back to lush green and the glistening ocean visible from your hotel balcony. Tucked away on the northeastern coast of Australia, Cairns is your final base in Australia, the next three days effortlessly combining culture with nature.

Cairns – Immersion in Aboriginal Culture

Aboriginal culture is vastly misunderstood and homogenized. This is a land of over 250 languages and some 1000 tribes, each very different from the next. Today’s tour offers a thick immersion in one tribe's culture, starting with a lesson in catching your own food. Head into the mangroves with a bamboo spear, searching for mud crabs and other bush tucker. It’s all boiled up in a local aboriginal’s home, the meal accompanied by stories and laughter. Now head into the forest, the uses for every plant revealed. Natural toothpaste, green bugs to cure colds, branches for constructing huts, leaves that magically form soap…every turn brings a lesson in natural innovation and deep harmony with the environment.

On today’s trip you meet three different Aboriginal guides, each helping to unravel the subtleties and nuances of local culture. Retell your day in the traditional manner, painting your narrative with a bamboo stick. Art has always been the means of storytelling and a deaf local artist teaches the significance behind interwoven works of dots and lines. Create your own piece of Aboriginal art to take home and then journey through the thick rainforest as you return to Cairns.

Cairns – Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

Yesterday you went inland, exploring the exuberant greenery that surrounds Cairns. Today you head east, cruising out onto the ocean and ogling the delights of the Great Barrier Reef. Thousands of interconnected reefs form this immense natural spectacle, each dancing with delightful colors and peculiar marine specialties. Jump into the water and snorkel around, a wonderful tranquility accompanying the giant groupers, occasional turtles, and myriad of tropical fish. The reef exudes originality, each flick of the flippers bringing further submersion in nature’s most impressive underwater attraction. And while the size of the Great Barrier Reef is well documented, today you discover the intricate detail and distinctive characters that bring the reef to life. Few places on the planet are as vibrant. This is a full day tour from Cairns with four hours at the reef, allowing you to combine snorkeling with relaxing on the ocean, and even providing the chance to go scuba diving.

Auckland – Welcome to New Zealand

New Zealand is equally fond of single travelers, the country exuding warmhearted sociability. Saying hello to strangers is part of the culture, so while you get all the benefits of traveling solo, you’re also never far from making new friends. After a quick aircraft change in Brisbane you land in Auckland, in northern New Zealand. As always, a chauffeur is waiting in arrivals and a luxury transfer takes you directly to the hotel. The evening is free to relax and soak up the city of sails. Explore an elegant harbor, charming colonial relics, stunning fine dining restaurants, and a city that has a cozy village-like atmosphere.

Rotorua – A Journey to Hobbiton and Middle Earth

Frodo Baggins had to make some difficult solo journeys in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings. Thankfully your solo adventure into Middle Earth doesn’t have any surprising challenges. Get picked up from your hotel and meander through profuse green landscapes, each turn and curve taking you deeper into a mythical landscape. Alight at Hobbiton, 44 surreal hobbit holes complete with rocking chairs, potted plants, and remarkably intricate detail. With smoke rising from chimneys you almost expect Gandolf to wander past. The Hobbiton movie set is completely unchanged since filming, and your tour concludes with a mug of Hobbit Stout in the charming Green Dragon Tavern. This one-way tour then continues to Rotorua, not a filming location but equally spectacular in its portrayal of a lost, seemingly chimerical landscape.

Rotorua – Exploding Geysers and Maori Culture

Bubbling beneath Rotorua’s surface is vivacious volcanic activity, the earth’s crust occasionally pierced by boiling jets of water soaring towards the sky. These geysers continually erupt, active reminders of the earth’s power. After a relaxed morning, explore these geothermal wonders at Tu Puia; mud pools bubble redolently, steam sails across red tinged rock, and such is the drama of the geology; it’s impossible to escape the feeling of being transported back to a pre-historic period. These thermals aren’t just a visual delight; the local Maoris have always found practical uses for the natural heat.

With your dinner being roasted on an underground rock, the Maori chief officially welcomes you with a fanfare of trumpets and singing. Accept the invitation and this very rare and unique opportunity to enter their indigenous home. While the evening’s cultural performances are tailored for tourists, this remains an immersive and authentic experience. It’s thanks to these evenings that the Tu Puia center has ensured that traditional song and dance has not been diluted over the generations. So while the outside world changes, the next group of Maori youngsters maintain the same indigenous practices. Learn the haka war dance, marvel at narrates told through song and dance, and then sit down for a huge buffet feast.

Rotorua – Trekking Up an Active Volcano

Rotorua’s geysers are proof enough of New Zealand’s volcanic history, but today’s exhilarating experience brings you even closer to what hisses beneath the surface. Cruise over to White Island, iconic crater rims dominating the horizon and dolphins jumping alongside the boat. Don the hard hat and gas mask and start your ascent, trekking up an active volcano that last erupted just over a decade ago. It’s all here; the blankets of steam that mysteriously rise, the provocative sounds from the earth’s core, and now an inedible crater rim with views into the abyss. After marveling at the White Island volcano follow the earth’s fiery underbelly to Mount Tarawera, another example of the country’s volcanic past. Note that White Island is constantly monitored and this tour may be cancelled if there is any imminent chance or eruption.

Queenstown – Serenity Then Jet Boating in Queenstown

Queenstown is the most idyllic of New Zealand bases, tucked between jaw-dropping alpine scenery and overlooking a sapphire lake. It regularly appears in lists of the best destinations for single travelers, the streets filled with an eclectic international crowd who arrived alone. Kicking off the socializing is a jet boat ride down the Shotover River, 16 passengers brought together by the communal thrill of 360° spins and hurtling through the narrow canyon. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free to soak up Queenstown and it's quiet charms.

Queenstown – The Unforgettable Beauty of Milford Sound

Something extra special has been saved for the last day. Take a glass-ceilinged coach into the mountains, weaving through thick indigenous forests and alongside serene alpine lakes. Slowly you ascend, crossing a mountain pass usually tinged with snow and ice. Rugged rock rises high, panoramas extend beyond the horizon, and slowly you descend to infamous Milford Sound. A blanket of mist flickers in the distance, elegantly floating into a narrow valley of hidden waterfalls and calm waters. Your nature cruise heads into this mythical realm, the boat cruising along Milford Sound and out into the Tasman Sea. Marvel at the vistas, smile at the mystique, and rock your head back to admire the enormity of this World Heritage Site. It's a three hour drive back to Queenstown but it's full of more visual delights.

Queenstown – Fond Farewells

This morning you wave farewell to New Zealand. Soar back over the Pacific and think about your vacation. You came alone so you got to do everything you wanted to do. There was an overarching freedom that accompanied these 16 days, and any brief apprehension about traveling solo was extinguished within the first two days. Traveling alone is addictive. After this trip you'll already be dreaming of your next personalized vacation.

Trip Highlights

• Journey to Middle Earth and Hobbiton, and travel to the red heart of Australia and unforgettable Uluru
• Fully immerse yourself in indigenous culture with whole days dedicated to Aboriginal lifestyles and Maori traditions
• Snorkel the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, just one of your highlights in tropical Cairns
• Feel the exhilarating pull of New Zealand by trekking up an active volcano and taking a roaring jet boat down the Shotover River
• Spend three days exploring the different sides of Sydney, including surfing on Bondi Beach and climbing up Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Marvel at wild kangaroos and koalas, the evocative marsupials an iconic image of Australia
• Experience some of the planet’s most majestic landscapes, like the mystical Blue Mountains of Australia or the breathtaking New Zealand Fjordlands and Milford Sound
• Enjoy a handcrafted itinerary that’s been carefully tailored for single travelers, ensuring there’s lots of opportunity to meet the locals and forge new friendships

Detailed Description

Cast adrift in the Pacific Ocean that exudes an untamed charm, Australia and New Zealand are destinations that most people dream of visiting once in a lifetime. There’s no need to wait for a travel partner as this handcrafted itinerary is perfectly tailored for the solo traveler. It’s a journey of nonstop highlights, the continent’s finest destinations revealed in intimate detail. There’s adventure, tranquility, cultural immersion, and a perennial indulgence in the unique and iconic. Each destination rewards the single traveler; come alone and you’re able to discover more, as well as experience the local and hidden side of these majestic countries. With an expert collection of guides showing the way, these 16 days reveal the very best of two inimitable countries.

There might be a brief whiff of apprehension as you depart alone, but that’s soon silenced in Sydney, the exhilarating city on the coast providing an evocative taste of what’s to come. Like everywhere on this itinerary, it’s incredibly safe and cascading with opportunities to meet the locals. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, learn to surf on famous Bondi Beach, and explore the mystical Blue Mountains that overlook the city. Hop down to Melbourne for a further compelling dose of city delights, combined with a journey into the wilderness and a chance to meet Australia’s most adorable residents: wild kangaroos and koalas. Aboriginal residents are similarly memorable. First visit their most sacred homeland, the scorched desert that surrounds burning red Uluru (Ayer’s Rock), a spectacular monolith rising proud in the wilderness. Learn their lifestyles with a day discovering aboriginal art, traditional hunting, and the bush tucker that hides in the forest.

You’re halfway through the vacation by now, so change the pace as you jump into the marine blue and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, another of nature’s wonders revealed in intricate detail. From tropical Cairns you cross the waters to New Zealand, where the enchantment of Hobbiton firmly confirms your suspicions that you’ve landed in Middle Earth. Geysers explode, mud bubbles, forests dance with mystery, and mountains roll across the horizon; this is all within a few miles of your base in Rotorua. Get even closer by trekking up a live volcanic crater, suggestive hissing and roaring accompanying standing on the rim. Each experience has been selected with single travelers in mind; small group tours make it easy to make new friends. Guides are skilled at unveiling the intimate and authentic, and there’s never a dull moment during these 16 days of highlights.

Queenstown is your final stop, its idyllic lakeside location belying a mischievous passion for adventure. Take a thrilling jet boat ride down the Shotover River, the pilot pulling 360º spins and hurtling alongside stark canyon walls. Cruise across the Fjordlands in a glass-ceilinged coach, one of the world’s most remarkable landscapes coming alive before your eyes. Then climb aboard a graceful boat and journey along world famous Milford Sound, exploring a natural wonder that juxtaposes the sublime with the ethereal. As with all Zicasso itineraries, every facet of this vacation can be customized. The beauty of traveling solo is there’s no need to debate and negotiate the options with a travel partner. So let your mind run free and prepare yourself for a vacation that exceeds longstanding travel dreams.

Starting Price

$5,195  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Australia

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatGs) – Beach GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Party GatG, Train Journey GatG, Wildlife GatG

Australia is an amazing destination to visit especially as a solo traveller. Going to Australia for some is a once in a lifetime experience because of the distance to travel there. I spent a year working and travelling extensively around Australia and have written a guide on how to travel solo in Australia.

Discover the best places to stay, which tour company to use and how to get around. Find out how to get from the airports and what to do in each place. All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article.

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

• Working & Volunteering in Australia
• Places to Visit in Australia

Tours in Australia

Accommodation in australia.

• Best Experiences in Australia For Solos

Travelling Around Australia

• Australia Itinerary

Best Backpacks For Australia

Travel accessories for australia.

• Best Time to Go To Australia

Travel Insurance For Australia

• From Australia Airports

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Australia

Frequently asked questions about australia, map of australia, plan a trip to australia, related posts.

Australia is known for its kangaroos

Solo travel in Australia is so easy that I've given it a 5 out of 5-star rating. Australia in Oceania is known for its travelling culture so wherever you choose to start travelling you’re guaranteed to meet others en route.

Backpacking Australia solo is really popular, especially along the East Coast which is famous for its party atmosphere. Because of its ease, many gap-year and younger travellers choose to visit here to experience life down under before entering the job market.

If you are wondering “is Australia safe to travel to alone?” Then the answer is yes. Travelling solo in Australia as a woman is fine as most people are friendly but be prepared for some strange souls in the outback, especially in Katherine and Tenant Creek.

Australia has an outdoor lifestyle, barbecues on the beach, sporty lifestyle. There are so many rural areas and beaches and it gives you a chance to cut off from your previous world and have time for yourself, to think about a career change, think about changing your life, a different path or to start something new.

Australia has the power to bring so much harmony and power back into your life because it’s so natural with so much space. You can choose to share with people who you just meet or keep it to yourself. You have the freedom and the space for personal growth, to think about what you really want from life and learn all about yourself on the road.

Oz is great for first-time solos as there are endless supplies of hostels and hotels and everyone speaks English. It really is a traveller’s dream but if you prefer your Australia sightseeing with others, there are plenty of solo travel companies in Australia to go with.

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Australia.

Volunteering & Working in Australia

If you are thinking of volunteering in Australia, Global Work & Travel helps you to organise a working holiday in Australia and around the world. Choose from au pairing in Australia, an IT or marketing internship in Australia, volunteering with marine conservation and so many more.

They even offer an eco-tourism internship! Whether you want to au pair Sydney, au pair Melbourne or experience one of their business internships, their placements are ideal for solos and include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure. * Save £100/$100/€100 with the code ‘GatG.’ * Check availability for volunteering & working in Australia placements

The sun sets over Cairns

Places To Visit in Australia

East coast australia.

You can’t get much further from home than Australia and a trip down under is ideal for solo travel. It has sun, sand and plenty of surfer dudes to keep you entertained but with so many territories to see, where do you start? Follow our list of places to visit in Australia to help you to plan your trip.

If you like to party and meet other travellers then the East coast is one of the popular places in Australia to begin. As one of the best places to travel alone in Australia, you can fly into Cairns  and travel down the Queensland coast.

Cairns is also the gateway to Northern Australia where the rainforest meets the sea and from here you can explore Cape Tribulation which is one of the locations in Australia that is home to thousands of mammals, reptiles and plants. Spend an evening in an eco-lodge to get back in touch with nature.

Cape Tribulation (photo @ Petrina Wong)

Things To Do in Queensland

Take the scenic railway through the  Daintree National Park, see the waterfalls at Atherton Tablelands or take a stroll at the Mossman Gorge then relax at Cow Bay or the Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas. * Read: Exploring The Daintree Forest in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef runs along the Queensland coast and is one of the most famous places in Australia. The reef is a metropolis of coral and underwater life but due to many factors such as overfishing, coral mining, and tourism in Australia, the reef has suffered damage.

There are introductory dives available for those who want to experience the reef for the first time from Fitzroy or Green Island (but be careful not to touch the reef). Or you may prefer to take a scenic flight above it instead. 

Once you’ve experienced this Wonder of the World, head South for the real Australia where you can sample some Bundaberg rum in the fruit-picking region of Bundaberg .

Fraser Island

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island, Australia, is a boat away from Townsville and they say that once you come here, you won’t want to leave. It’s a great place to hire a moke (a golf cart) and drive around the island. See the secluded beach of Radical Bay and the dairy-free ice-cream parlour, or explore the island on horseback.

The stunning Whitsundays

Fraser Island & The Whitsundays

Fraser Island  is a definite must-see. It's a huge sand island with stunning lakes where you can drive a 4WD along the beach. This is more of a camping experience but beware of the dingos and the tiger sharks. You do need to do a tour to see the best of the island. Find the best Fraser Island tours here.

Another of Australia's best places to visit is Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and you can see manta rays swimming along the shoreline. This beach in the Whitsundays is also an ideal spot to clean any dull-looking jewellery in crystal clear waters.

Experience the great nightlife at Airlie Beach  then take a sailing trip around the islands of the Whitsundays. It really is one of the most stunning places you will ever see. 

Surfers Paradise

Brisbane & The Gold Coast

Compared to the rest of the country, there aren't that many things to do in Brisbane but one of the must-do's is to visit the late Steve Irwin’s Brisbane Zoo and Riverside Park. Brisbane is also home to Moreton Island, one of the largest sand islands in the world. This island with pristine beaches and a shipwreck is the place for the adventurous solo as you can snorkel in its waters, go kayaking on a transparent kayak and sand board down huge dunes. You can take a tour from Brisbane to visit it .

If you need more nightlife and some surfing then Surfers Paradise is one of the best places to travel solo in Australia for surfing Girls about the Globe. This coastal city is the place to be with its ‘Miami feel’ and is the place to visit on the Gold Coast for plenty of fun and sun.

One of the things to do in Australia's Gold Coast is taking  a ride in the many theme parks. Choose from Dreamworld, Movie World, or Wet ‘n’ Wild. Stay in a hostel to find others willing to come along for the ride.

Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay

Visit Noosa, Byron Bay, and Nimbin

Just north of Brisbane is a region called  Noosa with secluded beaches and cute arty shops with plenty of restaurants around Hastings Street. The main beach is great for swimming and there are no stingers here.

If you prefer the hippy scene, visit Byron Bay   for its incredibly laid-back vibe or take a trip to Nimbin the ‘alternative capital of Australia’ for its arty, colourful community and lost souls. This area is great if you are backpacking Australia alone as you will meet other travellers here too. Plus, you can see Bryon's Bay iconic lighthouse and spot dolphins and turtles if you take a sea kayaking adventure . 

Victoria is the next territory and is known for its variety of sporting events. Melbourne hosts the Australian Open, the Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup and Aussie Rules football at the MGM. It is also the fashion capital of Australia and is great for shopping and back-street cafe culture but you’ll need a local to find its exclusive, hidden nightlife.

Take some time to walk along the riverbank and enter Queen Victoria Market, the city's iconic market and the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne Museum, and the National Gallery of Victoria, before shopping at Chapel Street then while away your evenings at one of the bars or restaurants in Brunswick or Fitzroy.

You may feel more at home in Melbourne with its four seasons in one day but if you’re looking for more of a holiday feel, take the tram to St Kilda where you can sit al fresco and watch people rollerblading along the promenade.

You don't have to go far outside the city to experience some nature.  Just 35 km outside of Melbourne are the Dandenong Ranges, mountain ranges with tall forests and waterfalls and a 1000 Steps Walk for the active GatG. Other places to see in Victoria include the town of Olinda, a popular town with forest walks and cafes and restaurants but it can get busy on the weekends.

If you love wildlife, this region is the place to see the world's smallest penguins and koalas too. You can take a day trip to see the Philip Island Koala Reserve and penguin parade which also stops at Nobbies National Park to see volcanic formations and Seal Rocks. * Check rates & availability for the tour

* Read: Things To Do in Melbourne Solo

The Great Ocean Road (photo @ Petrina Wong)

The Great Ocean Road

One of the things to do in Melbourne, Australia, is taking a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s epic drives. Bells Beach is en route and has great point breaks and was the setting of the film with the same name.

Stop off at Port Campbell National Park to see the Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. The Twelve Apostles are one of the well-known sites on the route and the best way to see this iconic drive if you don't hire a car is on a Great Ocean Road day tour.

Off the coast of Melbourne is Tasmania, one of the lesser-known tourist attractions in Australia. In reality, there is so much to see in Tasmania that we've given it its own page. Read Solo Travel in Tasmania here . 

New South Wales

If you're wondering where the best place to spend a week in Australia is then the answer is of course, Sydney. Sydney   lies in New South Wales and although it is not the country’s capital it has everything you would expect to find in one.

Australia’s actual capital, Canberra , is 250km inland. If you do make it to Canberra, the Parliament Building is the main focal point of the city which overlooks the lake but don't make the long trip here expecting too much as the capital is very understated.

Sydney Opera House

Places To Visit in Sydney

There is much to see and do in Sydney, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House are must sees for day tours in Sydney. Take a boat ride around the harbour or travel across to Taronga Zoo for spectacular pictures of giraffes against a Sydney backdrop.

There are so many other things to do in Sydney, Australia, such as a Rocks walking tour, kayak to Goat Island, visit the Chinese Garden or take a tour to the Blue Mountains, named after the blue haze from the eucalyptus trees.

TIP – If you are planning to solo female travel in Sydney for a few nights, consider purchasing the Sydney Attraction Pass to save money. Choose from 4 of Sydney’s best sites and save up to 45% compared to buying the tickets separately. * Buy the Sydney Attraction Pass here  

Famous Bondi Beach

Sydney's Beaches

Darling Harbour at dusk is the perfect place to people-watch and has some great bars. If you prefer somewhere more upmarket, Woolloomooloo has swanky restaurants and plenty of yachts to admire.

If you like markets, you’ll love Paddington market which is reminiscent of Covent Garden with arty stalls. One of the favourite things to do in Australia is surf and Bondi is the most popular of the beaches but the waves of Coogee , Manly and Bronte are just as good. Dee Why Beach is lesser known and is a great escape from the crowds.

Only a 2.5 hour drive from Sydney is Port Stephans, a place that feels a world away from the city. With giant sand dunes and the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales, it feels like a hidden gem in the country. 

Blue Mountains (photo @ Lindsay Deutsch)

South Australia

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and there is a lot to do both in and around this city which has a country-town feel. Things to do in Adelaide include getting out into the Adelaide Hills to see waterfalls, fairytale villages and the world’s largest rocking horse.

Sample wines at the Barossa Valley and see how chocolate is made in the chocolate factory, and camp overnight at Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre within the Flinders Rangers. It’s a unique experience and you need an entry permit to enter the park.

Other places to visit in South Australia include the beach-side suburb of Glenelg where you will find great restaurants after a day of sunbathing on the beach. If you don’t enjoy having tan lines as you sunbathe, Maslin Beach is a popular nudist beach.

The Adelaide Hills

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a natural Australia attraction and is only 90 minutes from the mainland, reachable via Adelaide. Over a third of Kangaroo Island are nature reserve but the island was badly affected by the wildfires in 2020.

The East side of the island is still open for Australia tourism and you can get up close and personal with seals on Seal Bay or join a wildlife safari to learn about Australian wildlife.

See Admirals Arch, the Remarkable Rocks, and the lighthouse at Flinders Chase National Park on the west side of Kangaroo Island. There are tours that take you from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island. Discover the best Kangaroo Island tours here.

Perth City (photo @ Shannon Lane)

Things To Do in Perth

From Adelaide, you can travel by train on the Ghan across the outback to the Red Centre, home to many Aborigines, or to the modern city of Perth via the Indian Pacific railway. Perth doesn't have that many of Australia's tourist attractions but is popular with ex-pats and there are some great beaches such as Cottesloe and Scarborough.

Kings Park in Perth is a tranquil place to relax and see black swans, or you can take one of the popular day trips and drive three hours south of the city to Margaret River where you can visit vineyards and wineries, cycle along the river or even surf. Perth is worth seeing if you have the time as it’s a long way from the rest of the country.

Fremantle , Perth, is a vibrant little city with buzzing markets but the main attraction has got to be the old prison, which gives you an eye-opening tour of prison life. Don't forget to visit Rottnest Island either where you can cycle around the wildlife nature reserve and spot the quokkas that live there.

The Breakaways near Coober Pedy

Northern Territory

When you stray away from the cities into the more male-dominated outback, you may find you get more attention as a woman travelling solo and being whistled at is not uncommon. If you don’t mind the attention, it’s worth a trip to see the real Australia.

You shouldn’t miss Coober Pedy, the world’s only underground town where you can sleep in an abandoned mine shaft. Near Coober Pedy is the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park with colourful mounds and stunning landscapes.

The Red Centre is steeped in Aboriginal culture and resembles a scene out of the Flintstones. Learn how to throw a boomerang, ride in a hot air balloon or play the didgeridoo at Alice Springs .

Uluru, an Aboriginal sacred site

Uluru (Ayres Rock) 

Things to do at Ayres Rock include visiting the Flying Doctors Museum or the reptile centre to learn more about Australia’s snakes and lizards. Then it’s onto the wonder that is Ayres Rock or Uluru, as known by the Aborigines at Kata Tjuta National Park.

Australia has thousands of national parks but this sacred rock is one of the largest Australia attractions and can be reached by a six-hour drive or a flight.

There has been much controversy about climbing the rock but a walk around the burial caves and ancient art paintings at the base is a good substitute. Don’t forget to include a trip to Kings Canyon (the setting for the movie, Priscilla Queen of the Desert ), and the Olgas when you go.

Things To Do in Darwin

Head north to  Darwin , the capital of the Northern Territory and the gateway to Lichfield or Kakadu National Park where you can see crocodiles and wetlands, and hire a bike at Katherine Gorge to cycle to the springs.

You don't have to go far to see a crocodile as Darwin is home to Crocosaurus Cove, one of Australia's tourist attractions, where you can experience one of the scariest things in Australia; diving with the crocodiles.

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground and are wondering what to do in Darwin, there are plenty of art galleries showcasing indigenous art, and museums such as the Darwin Military Museum to keep you entertained. If you are going to the Northern Territory it’s worth investing in a fly net for this tropical climate.

Tennant Creek is an odd little place and half of its population are aborigines. If you can handle the strangeness it’s worth a stop to see the Devil's Marbles, an important site from the Dreamtime or visit Kalgoorlie for a real gold rush town.

Nambung National Park

Western Australia

Cruise past the rugged red cliffs of the Kimberley region then west to   Broome , Australia, known for its pearling industry to drive a 4×4 along the northern stretch of Cable Beach. Many people skip this region but if you have the time it is worth travelling to. Nambung National Park is where you'll find the Pinnacles Desert, an area of pointy formations made out of limestone.

Finally…

Travel Australia alone and you'll have so many adventures. There are so many attractions in Australia and things to do from sleeping under the stars in a swag to experiencing a hot sunny Christmas.

If you decide to spend the Christmas holidays in Australia you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Santa jet skiing along Sydney Harbour. Tour Australia and you'll soon discover that there really is no other place like it.

Thinking of going to Australia? Global Work & Travel helps you to organise working abroad placements in Australia and around the world. Choose from a working holiday , an internship or au pairing . Their placements include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure.

Best Tours to Australia For Solos

G Adventures Tours Australia   – With Australia being such a sociable country, you’ll never be short of company travelling Australia alone. There are numerous solo travel tours for Australia but if you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, G Adventures   is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers.

Most tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book one of their G Adventures Australia tours you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. G Adventures offer some of the best tours of Australia for all types of duration from 3 days on the Great Ocean Road to 28 days for a complete Australia tour.

Join the G Adventures East Coast Australia from Sydney to Cairns on a 16-day trip from £1849, or travel the Red Centre to Adelaide from £639 for 8 days . The G Adventures Best of Australia takes you from Cairns to Sydney over 14 days from £2050, making the most of your two weeks in the country.  I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company.   *  Check rates and availability for G Adventures Australia tours

Intrepid Tours Australia – Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people who book their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels for their Intrepid Australia tours and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more than G Adventures.

Intrepid Travel Australia tours range from 2 days to 22 days and include adventures such as an overnight camping trip in Uluru or an overland tour from Darwin to Perth. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our   Intrepid Travel Reviews

*  Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Stray Bus Australia – More for the adventurous GatG, Stray Travel is a hop-on hop-off bus tour offering bus passes around Australia with Australia tours from Sydney and other major cities. Jump on a 16 or 21-day Australia tour to see the best of the coast from Sydney to Cairns. This epic trip squeezes in all the highlights including Fraser Island, sailing around the Whitsundays, and seeing the Queensland rainforest. Tours of Australia depart every week and you can start or end your trip in Melbourne. 

As well as seeing the iconic hotspots on their Australian bus tours you can also go off the beaten track and see areas of the country that others don't visit. Prices start from $2,895 AUD. If you visit during the peak season you may need to pre-book all sections of your trip before you go.  Check the review here and save 10% on any $500+ Freestyle Pass. * Check rates and availability for Stray tours

1770 Castaway – If you've ever wanted to experience life as a castaway on a tropical island, these 3/4 day tours are definitely not for the faint-hearted. Remote, raw and with insects, this will be one of those vacations to Australia that you'll never forget. (As one of the fun things to do in Australia, this castaway experience is definitely for the adventurous Girl about the Globe).

Australian Day Tours

Lets Go Surfing – Fancy a surfing lesson on Bondi beach? Check out Let's Go Surfing.

I'm Free Walking Tours – Enjoy 2.5 hours of easy walking around Sydney. The tours are free and you just make a donation at the end.

Get Your Guide – This tour platform offers day tours in Australia. When you solo travel around Australia it can be challenging to find tours that don't have a minimum of 2 people. Get Your Guide offers small groups and although some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people, there are plenty to book as a solo.  

Choose from a tour of the Sydney Opera House, a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne or a catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef. There are so many to choose from. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for Australia day tours

There are plenty of types of accommodation in Australia and you'll never be short of places to stay whether you prefer hostels in Australia or a swanky city apartment. Finding accommodation in Australia is easy with motels, farm stays and even boat houses to spend a night or two. If you are backpacking alone in Australia, choose one of the many Australian hostels to meet others.  

Booking.com is my favourite hotel site in Australia. It offers BnBs and hotels from 3-star to luxurious 5-star hotels in Australia and even includes dorm rooms if you're travelling on a budget. Guest houses are a sociable way of staying in family homes, or choose a private room in hostels if you want to meet others but still have your own privacy.

Plus there’s Airbnb Australia which offers rental accommodation in Australia on a short-term basis and rooms in Australia with a local. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. 

All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodations, click on the link below and search for the solo traveller reviews. * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Australia

Adelaide –  Adelaide Central YHA ($)

Adelaide Central YHA is an award-winning hostel in Australia. It is right in the heart of the city and has air-conditioned rooms. Each bed has a personal light and a large locker to store your stuff. It’s sociable with a communal lounge and they have pizza and live music nights too.

There is a 6-bed female-only dorm or you can choose a private room from £56 if you need more privacy. You'll find lots of backpackers here as the YHA Australia group is one of the most well-known hostels in Australia. * Check prices and availability: Adelaide Central YHA

Cairns – Cascade Gardens ($$)

If you prefer your own space in Cairns, Cascade Gardens are apartments with their own private balconies and a shared swimming pool. Everything you need is just a short stroll away along the boardwalk. See the lagoon pool, dine at the city’s restaurants or take a ferry to explore the reef.

In an excellent location with friendly, helpful staff, the apartments are bright and comfortable and come equipped with a kitchenette with tea, coffee and condiments. This family-run business is close enough to the city yet you can escape to your own piece of paradise. Choose from a studio or a one-bedroom apartment. * Check rates and availability: Cascade Gardens

Melbourne – Selina Central Melbourne ($)

Located in the Central Business District, Selina Central Melbourne is one of the hostels in Australia Melbourne in the perfect spot to explore the city. I love the Selina brand. You’ll find lockers for your belongings and a manned reception which is open 24 hours. The onsite bar makes it easy to find others to explore with. For those of us going to Australia alone, it's easy to meet other solo travellers. * Check rates and availability: Selina Central Melbourne

Melbourne – Citadines on Bourke Melbourne ($$)

If you prefer comfortable accommodation in Melbourne, Citadines on Bourke Melbourne offers modern apartments within the heart of the city. The apartments are a good size and come equipped with a kitchenette so you can prepare your own meals, as well as a TV in the living space. The staff are really helpful and reception is open 24 hours.

Other facilities include a gym, sauna and saltwater pool as well as a sun terrace. As an award-winning hotel in Australia, Melbourne, you can choose from a deluxe studio apartment, an executive studio, or an executive one-bedroom apartment. * Check rates and availability: Citadines on Bourke

Sydney – Rydges Sydney Harbour ($$)

This four-star hotel is one of the best hotels in Australia for views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It is a short walk from Circular Quay and is perfectly located for ferries and trains, with the harbour only a 15-minute walk away. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom, flat-screen TV and air conditioning, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.

You even have a choice of pillows that you don't find in many Sydney hotels. The swimming pool on the rooftop is one of the hotel’s highlights offering amazing views of the harbour.

The hotel breakfast is an additional cost but is well worth purchasing during your stay. Choose from a standard double room, a superior room, an executive double room or a deluxe king room with a harbour view. * Check rates and availability: Rydges Sydney Harbour

Experiences in Australia For Solos

If you are wondering what to do in Australia alone, we've picked our top 10 activities in Australia for solo travellers. * Check rates and availability for all experiences in Australia

1. The Sydney Opera House

If you are travelling to Sydney, Australia alone, you can’t come all the way to Sydney and not see the Opera House! This iconic structure is now 60 years old and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you thought this was one giant opera house you may be surprised to know that there are more than 1,000 rooms within its famous sails. The hour-long tour includes a tour inside the theatres, learning the history of Australia’s biggest icon. * Book Sydney Opera House tour

2. Sail The Whitsunday Islands

If you love beaches, sailing the Whitsundays Islands is one of the must do's in Australia. The Whitsunday Islands are some of the most beautiful islands in Oz and the best way to see them is on a sailing trip. You get to snorkel alongside turtles and stingrays and see Whitehaven Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the world. The catamaran departs from Airlie Beach, a destination that attracts many travellers backpacking alone in Australia. * Book Whitsundays sailing adventure

3. Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles

When you're travelling solo it can be costly to rent a car for one. Instead of hiring a car along one of the world’s most popular coastal roads, take a full-day tour instead. See the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and hear tales of shipwrecks as you see this spectacular coastline. The trip departs from Melbourne. * Book Great Ocean Road tour

4. Daintree Wilderness & Cape Tribulation

If you are planning to spend some time in Queensland, head out of Cairns to experience Australia’s rainforest and wetlands. Cruise along the Daintree River among mangroves, spotting crocodiles. Cape Tribulation has a gorgeous white sand beach that you can walk along or just view from the boardwalk instead. The trip departs from Cairns. * Book Daintree Wilderness tour

5. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you want to see the best of Sydney, one of the fun things to do in Australia is to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for the most amazing views. The climb includes an experienced guide who takes you 134 metres above the water to the summit of the bridge.

After a complimentary certificate and photo, you finish your climb with a great sense of achievement. No matter what time of day you go, you’ll be blessed with a great panorama but it's recommended to pre-book your tour as this is one of the Australian activities that you don't want to miss. * Book Sydney Harbour Bridge climb

6. Go Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

If you’ve ever wanted to see whales up close, whale watching is a must do in Australia. This experience is led by marine naturalists who tell you everything about whale behaviour during your trip. You can listen to live whale songs underwater and there is also a whale researcher onboard to help with any questions. The best thing about this experience is that whale sightings are guaranteed or you will receive a free ticket for another day. * Book Hervey Bay whale watching experience

7. Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley

If you love wine, a trip to Barossa Valley should definitely be on your solo Australia wish list. This day trip makes it easy for you to go wine tasting as it’s travelling by coach. You'll experience wine tastings at three wineries and enjoy lunch in this famous region before heading to the Adelaide Hills and learning more about the region’s German heritage. * Book Barossa Valley tour

8. Cycle Rottnest Island

This little island off the coast of Perth is the perfect place for cycling. It takes 3.5 hours to peddle around this wildlife nature reserve spotting wildlife as you go. The island is only 4km wide and has secluded bays and unspoilt beaches. It’s a great day out and just a ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle. This tour includes your ferry ticket and bike hire. Just remember to pack some food and water. * Book Rottnest Island ferry & bike trip from Perth or Fremantle

9. Snorkel The Great Barrier Reef

You can't take an Australia solo trip and not see one of the Seven Wonders of The World. Green Island is one of the islands in The Great Barrier Reef with transparent waters and a colourful reef. Snorkelling is the best way to see the marine life but if you prefer to stay dry then you can discover the reef from a glass bottom boat instead.

The trip also takes you to the island’s rainforest. Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best things in Australia to experience. The boat departs from Cairns. * Book Green Island reef catamaran cruise

10. Climb Sand Dunes on Fraser Island

There’s a reason that this island is World Heritage listed. As the largest sand island in the world, it is begging to be explored. Cruise the Great Sandy Strait spotting dolphins, turtles and even a dingo or two. You may even spot humpback whales off the shores. If you are an active GatG you can snorkel, kayak, go tubing or just climb the sand dunes. Tours depart from Hervey Bay . * Book Fraser Island tour from Hervey Bay

Travelling solo around Australia does take a bit of planning. The large distances between places are vast so travelling around Australia takes a while. If you are planning your own tour of Australia there is a great bus network called Greyhound that prov ides passes for bus travel, as well as epic train journeys.

A rail pass is a good way of saving money for train travel. If you are limited on time, the best way to travel Australia alone is to use internal flights between the cities: Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia operate domestically. Find flights here

If you are planning a solo road trip in Australia, renting a car i s only recommended for either short distances, a trip along the East Coast, or those long distances when you have company to travel with. You don't want to be travelling Australia solo with just you in the car and breaking down miles from anywhere in the Outback.

With so many backpackers in the country, there are plenty of other travellers to keep you company on a road trip. I hired a car for Tasmania and Queensland. * Check prices for car hire in Australia  

Coach tours are also a great way for travelling Australia. You get to see areas of the country and share the experience with your fellow passengers. Oz Experience offers guided trips to Australia for those who are sociable and like to party.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary 

If you are hoping to see all of Australia’s sites in a single trip it can be difficult to achieve unless you have plenty of time. Most people when they solo travel in Australia start with Sydney and travel their way up the coast. You'll find more travellers along this route so pairing up with others is more likely than venturing to the Northern Territory alone.

If you are planning first-time travel to Australia, we recommend these routes for your Australia Itinerary. For a cultural experience, you have to visit the Red Centre (Alice Springs and Ayres Rock) to learn more about the Aboriginal culture and help support indigenous groups.

Within a two-week Australia vacation, you also can travel from Adelaide to Darwin or Sydney to Cairns. Below are two itinerary ideas for two weeks in Australia.

a) Sydney – 5 nights, Alice Springs – 4 nights, Cairns –  4 nights (to visit the Great Barrier Reef).

b) Melbourne – 3 nights, Tasmania – 3 nights, Sydney – 5 nights, Uluru – 3 nights.

Australia is such a wonderful country for backpacking. If you're wondering whether to take a suitcase or a backpack, I definitely recommend a backpack if you are planning on visiting a few destinations within the country.

I have the Caribee Jet Pack 65 which opens like a suitcase.   It makes it easier for me to find everything that I have packed rather than having a top loader. I store all my clothes in the big section and my shoes and toiletries in the smaller compartment. My first aid kit gets packed in the pouch. It’s easy to spot on the baggage carousel too.  Find out why I recommend it below.

• Click here for all our recommended backpacks for solos 

Caribee Jet Pack 65

* Click here for Amazon.com / Click here for Amazon.co.uk

If you’re unsure what to pack for your solo trip to Australia, we have created a guide of our favourite solo travel products to help you decide what to pack. Our favourite travel accessory for Australia are a pair of Gandys Flip-Flops.

If you’re spending time at one of Oz’s incredible beaches, you’ll definitely need a pair of these. Find out why we love these below and click on the link to discover all of our favourite travel products:

* Click here for all of our recommended travel accessories for solos

Gandys Flip-Flops

Cool and very funky, these ethical flip-flops are not just footwear. Founded by brothers who were orphaned during the 2004 Tsunami, their mission is to improve the lives of fellow orphans. Every purchase goes towards opening a new children’s home around the world. These are flip-flops with a purpose but Gandys isn’t just limited to footwear; you’ll also find women’s shirts, hoodies and scarfs for your solo Australia trip. 

* Discover all Gandys Flip-Flops here

Best Time To Go To Australia

If you are wondering when is the best time to go to Australia, the best months to visit Australia are between October to December. Australia is in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning the seasons are opposite to Europe so you can escape a European winter.

There are still plenty of things to see in Australia no matter what time of year you visit. Because the country is so vast, each region differs in a climate so there is always somewhere to see depending on your interests.

If it's hot that you're after, one of the best places to visit in Australia is the Northern Territory which is known for being hot and humid year-round.

If you love festivals, Adelaide is one of the best places in Australia to visit in March due to its various festivals such as the Adelaide Fringe, and Art Festival. If you visit during the wet season (December to February), beware of box jellyfish in the sea. Stinger suits are provided if you intend to snorkel.

This chart shows the average maximum day temperatures for Sydney (from January to December) to help you plan your Australia travels. Find out the weather for other areas here.

Travelling alone in Australia is safe but travel insurance is always recommended, especially if you will be doing any active sports or venturing into the Outback. I recommend True Traveller for UK and European residents, and World Nomads for U.S. and worldwide citizens.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Australia. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

From Australia Airports 

When planning your solo trip to Australia, there is a choice of airports to fly into. Below are the main Australia airports with information on how to get into the nearest city.

Sydney Airport (SYD) – Airport Link departs the International and Domestic Terminals of Sydney International Airport every 10 minutes and takes just 15 minutes to reach the city.

Cairns Airport (CNS) – Airport shuttle buses run from the airport to the city centre, Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Cape Tribulation and Mission Beach. Some accommodation provides their own courtesy coach so check when booking. The time to the city is only 10 minutes.

Melbourne Airport (MEL) –  SkyBus offer an express service to the city every 10 minutes or there are public buses and taxis for the 30-minute journey.

Brisbane Airport (BNE) – Coachtrans coaches offer direct transfers to Brisbane City departing every 30 minutes. Trains take 22 minutes to Brisbane City or 90 minutes to the Gold Coast (Nerang). For transfers from Brisbane International Airport to the Sunshine Coast, Sun-Air operates an hourly bus service until 8.50 pm.

Perth Airport (PER) – From Perth International Airport, Bus route 380 runs to Elizabeth Quay Bus Station in Perth City. Bus route 40 operates 7 days a week and offers the most direct route from the airport to the city. Check here for buses.

Adelaide Airport – JetBus services travel from the Adelaide International Airport to the city, Glenelg and the North-Eastern suburbs. Skylink Airport Shuttle   offers a regular bus service for the 15-minute journey to the city.

* Feel more confident travelling to Australia alone with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa , a reliable and safe service for solos.

Travelling onwards (check visas before you travel)

As Australia neighbours countries such as New Zealand, Fiji, Bali or Papua New Guinea, your trip doesn’t have to end in Australia. You could fly to New Zealand , Bali, or the Pacific Islands to extend your travels in Oceania. If you prefer a leisurely pace, cruise from port to port in Australia and then onward to New Zealand or Tasmania . Asia and North America are also accessible by boat or sail back to the UK on a 40-day cruise.

* November to March is the best season for cruises to Australia.

Where can I go from here?

• Papua New Guinea – 4 hours
• New Zealand – 5.5 hours
• Bali – 4 hours

As well as the general ways to be a conscious traveller which you can find here , if you are solo travelling Australia you need to be aware of the following:

Don’t climb Ayres Rock. Climbing Ayres Rock used to be one of the top things to do in Australia. The Aboriginals have since won the right to keep this rock sacred. Instead, there’s a base walk that you can walk around. If there are signs asking you not to photograph Aboriginal sites refrain from taking pictures.

Buy Aboriginal art from cultural centres and ask permission before you take any photos of their crafts or the people.

Australia is known for its unique wildlife but don't try and touch or feed the animals, and don’t use your flash so that you can protect the animal’s eyes.

Don’t have your photo taken with a koala or snake around your neck and avoid any staged animal shows such as crocodile shows.

One of the must sees in Australia is visiting the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If you do visit here, be careful not to touch the coral in the reef. Respect the ocean if you choose to dive, snorkel or swim in it.

Social Impact Programs

Lentil As Anything – This not-for-profit vegan restaurant is in four locations in Australia. With the slogan ‘food without borders,’ they aim to care for people and provide a wholesome and nutritious meal.

Guests pay what they can for meals and also use food that otherwise would have gone to a landfill. The restaurant trains volunteers such as those who are long-term unemployed, migrants and refugees and help them to find paid work. 

Daintree Crocodlyus Village – For the Eco Girl about the Globe, Daintree Crocodylus Village is located deep within the Daintree rainforest, less than 2 miles from Cow Bay Beach. This Daintree accommodation feels more like being on safari with tent rooms that come with either a private or shared veranda.

There is a cafe onsite and a games room so you can challenge one of the guests to a game of pool as an ice-breaker. Choose from a jungle double with a shared bathroom, a tropical cabin, a rainforest bungalow or a safari hut. There are also beds in a 4-bed mixed dormitory room for those on a budget.

* To book, check prices or availability for Daintree Crocodlyus Village

Daintree Ecolodge is also in the Daintree Rainforest. Each villa has views of the rainforest and you can feel at one with the atmosphere of the rainforest with your windows open and screens on your windows to stop the bugs coming in.

The views are even better from the restaurant which overlooks the lagoon. All ingredients here are locally sourced so you’re guaranteed a delicious organic meal from seasonal produce.

The staff in this eco-lodge Australia are very welcoming and there is a day spa to help you fully relax. If you are searching for an eco getaway, this eco-lodge certainly offers sustainable luxury. Prices start from £135/$169 USD for a lagoon villa.

* To book, check prices or availability for Daintree Ecolodge  

Volunteering Australia

Conservation Volunteers Australia – If you love nature, you could help conserve the environment during your trip to Australia. Help in the volunteering response to the bushfires in the affected areas, or in the areas of heritage, flora and fauna, or coasts and waterways. There are conservation projects across the country in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia.

* Discover all conservation placements in Australia  

Vulnerable Girls in Australia

The Trauma of Australia’s Indigenous ‘Stolen Generations’ is still affecting children today. A report shows that children living with adults who were forcibly separated from their families are more likely to face a host of challenges. Read more….

Here are the most asked questions about Australia.

• Is Australia safe for solo female travellers? Yes. That's why we've given it 5/5 stars.
• Can you drink tap water in Australia? Yes, you can drink tap water but you may prefer to take a water filter for some areas.
• Tipping in Australia: Tipping isn't expected but if you received good service, a tip of 5% to 10% is appreciated.
• Fixed price or barter?  Fixed Price.
• Are There ATMs in Australia ? Yes, there are many banks and ATMS throughout Australia.
• What side of the road do they drive in Australia? They drive on the left-hand side (the same as the UK).
• Good for vegetarians and vegans? Yes, there are vegan cafes and restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne and other Australian cities. Adelaide even hosts an annual Vegan festival!
• Any seven Wonders of the World? The Great Barrier Reef.
• What is Australia famous for? Surfing, diving, beaches, road trips, and friendly locals.
• Which Australian city should I visit? For first-time travel definitely Sydney then either travel up the East Coast to Brisbane or south to Melbourne.

If you are ready to solo travel in Australia here are some useful links to help you to travel Australia alone including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Budget – £70+ a day

Current Time in Canberra

Capital City – Canberra

Population – 22.4 million

Language spoken – English

Currency in Australia – Australian Dollar

Do I Need a Visa To Go To Australia? The validity of an Australia visa lasts for 3 months within 12 months of when your visa is approved. Apply through your visa through here.

Vaccinations Required For Australia

Useful Info

Airlines to Australia

When is The Best Time to Travel to Australia? The seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere so October to December is a good time to go.

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Australia

Australian Festivals and Events

Living Cost in Australia

Australia Customs & Etiquette 

Aboriginal Customs & Culture

Mind Body & Soul

Relax at Yasodhara Ashram

Stay at a Meditation Retreat

Unwind at an Eco Spa

Get rebalanced at a Lifestyle Retreat

• Day Tours in Sydney
• Solo Travel in Tasmania
• Things To Do in Melbourne Solo
• Exploring The Daintree Forest
• Solo Travel in Oceania
• Expert Interview – Australia with Michela
• Solo Travel in New Zealand
• A Round The World Itinerary

57 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Australia ”

Brisbane and Byron Bay are not part of the Gold Coast. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, Byron Bay is at the top end of New South Wales.

Thanks Claudia. I have changed this now.

Hi thanks for your article, it is very informative, i will be going to Sydney solo in September. Can you recommenced any good seafood restaurants in Sydney?

Hi, thanks for your comment. I definitely recommend Doyles in Sydney. The fish is fab! There are a couple of girls in our Facebook group who live in Australia and may be able to suggest other places. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Aloha! Your website is truly a great source of information & inspiration!!! Thanks for doing this for all us Solo traveler’s, really makes it easier to take that leap. Wondering if you have advice re: Lord Howe Island, Heron Island, Hamilton Island, Magnetic Island, Hayman Island, Fitzroy Island. Fraser Island & Hervey Bay are on my to-do list, but I’m not sure about how to fit in all these island in 17 days this August. My goals are snorkeling the GBR, experiencing the pristine beaches, and incredible wildlife, too. Thanks in advance for any advice you have.

Thanks so much Judy 🙂 I have only been to Magnetic Island, Fraser Island and Hervey Bay. I would say that seeing all of these islands in 17 days could be a push as you’ll only get to spend about 3 days on each one. We have a Facebook group which you could join to ask advice and some of the girls live in Australia. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi! I plan to travel solo to Australia this October. Travelling solo for the first time can be daunting. Any suggestions will only help me further with planning my trip. I am looking at 10-12 days. The broad itinerary is like Mumbai-Sydney-Cairns-Melbourne-Canberra-Sydney-Mumbai. Is it doable? Also if you could guide me about how to go about booking trips to Blue Mountains, Scuba Diving (at Cairns), Great Ocean Drive (coach tour is fine, i am not a very confident driver, that too in a foreign country). I have joined the FB group (hope you accept my request). Looking forward to your guidance… Thanks 🙂

Hi Nilanjana, thanks for your message. I would say that 10-12 days isn’t that long to do all of those places unless you are doing activities every day and taking internal flights. You mentioned that you joined the FB group so post the same message in there to get some more advice x

hi. i’m planning to travel for 8 days in oz. personally, which part do u recommend?

Hi, I would recommend Sydney and then flying into Melbourne. You can then see the beaches in Sydney and if you have time, do part of the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne.

Travelling from Victoria, B.C. in January 2017. Bit nervous. Any other single females going to Australia around that time from Victoria?

Hi Alannah, I would suggest joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group to meet other solos Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi Alannah, I would join our FB group and ask the same question in there as you may find someone who lives there in our group 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

I’ll be in Sydney 1/29-2/1 and Melbourne from 2/6-2/9. Are you there at these times?

wow! i m so tempted. was thinking of going solo trips to Europe, but was fearful because i hadn’t done solo before. sounds like australia is a better choice..

Hello, I’ve found your site very informative, thankyou. I’m going flying to Cairns in November and I have about 3 weeks to get to Sydney to meet my BF who is coming out to see me for Christmas. I was just wandering about the best way to get from Cairns to Sydney, but missing out Brisbane as we are going to do that together. I have requested to join the Facebook group too as I am over there for 6 months. Hoping to work in Melbourne.

Hi Lindsey, thanks 🙂 You can either fly internally or take the Greyhound bus. I also took the Oz Experience for a sector of my trip. I’m glad you joined the group too.

Hello! Thank you very much for your article! Very useful 🙂 im planning to go to Australia and new zealand next summer, one month Australia and two weeks new zealand. Do you reccomend renting a car going by myself or is it better internal flights, buses and trains? Im planning to do the East coast ( cairns to Sydney) adelaide, Melbourne, uluru, Tasmania and all i can visit for the whole month. Your tips are more than welcome

Thanks Carmen. I definitely recommend visiting Tasmania – it’s so stunning and natural. If you only have one month maybe take a bus for half of the journey up the coast – Adelaide, Melbourne, Tasmania (you can get the ferry here), then fly to Uluru. I was there over 10 years ago so I would recommend joining the Girls about the Globe Facebook group as some of the girls there have recently been or are heading to Oz so they can offer you some better tips. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Looking to travel solo to Australia from the end of november to mid december 2016, so very soon!! I have no idea where I should begin. Should I go with a tour group? I’m a young 40 year old single female and don’t want to get stuck with a bunch of old people, ha, but I do not want to have to drive while I am there and happy to fly from location to location. Thinking Sydney – Melbourne – Cairns – and the outback somewhere? Not necessarily in that order. No clue how to start!

Hi Marni, I’m 40 too 🙂 There are internal flights you could take and also a great bus service called Greyhound. Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns sounds good then you could fly to Alice Springs in the outback. I was there over 10 years ago so I would recommend joining the Girls about the Globe Facebook group as some of the girls there have recently been or are heading to Oz so they can offer you some better tips. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hello! I’m planning to visit Australia in the month of January, 2017. Will be there for 3 weeks. Is there any way I can team up with fellow solo travelers and go around? I’m 25 🙂

Hi Shweta. I recommend joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group to meet other solos 🙂 Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi I have just sent a request to join your Facebook group, I am looking to travel to Australia in April from 14th till 2nd May (nothing booked yet). I will be travelling solo for the first time so a little nervous, ideally I would prefer to join a tour group or other solo travellers and was hoping you can help me prepare an itinerary please?

Hi, I have just accepted your request. Many of the girls have been to Australia recently so post your comment in the group to get some advice 🙂

Hi I am planning to go solo backpacking around the east coast in August/ September. Do you think its still worth going in the winter months -I am traveling alone so am hoping to meet other backpackers there or would it be very quiet? Thank you

Hi Rosie, I lived in Australia for a year and I would say yes but I recommend joining our FB group to ask the same advice in there as some of the girls have been to Australia recently x https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi I’m aiming to travel to Australia for the first time on my own Feb/March and hoping to travel aroundSydney and nearby areas. I’m not a confident traveler so I’ve sent a request to join the facebook page as any advice and tips on how to travel solo would be really helpful. Thanks,. Kath

Hi Kathryn, I’ve just joined you into the group. Welcome 🙂 x

I’m traveling solo to Australia for a month in February. I did send a request to join the group. Thanks so much!

Hi Sharon, let me know if you have any problems joining the group.

Hey, this is really informative, thank you so much! I’m visiting Cairns in early June, and am planning on visiting the Great Barrier Reef then. I was thinking of clubbing a couple days in Gold Coast and maybe 4 days in Sydney after that. Does that sound doable? What would you suggest?

Hi Preethi. Oh wow. June isn’t far away. Clubbing on the East Coast sounds cool! I really liked Surfers Paradise http://www.barsandnightclubs.com.au/gold-coast/ You can take the bus from Surfers to Sydney but it takes about 17 hours which is doable if it’s a night bus or look at taking an internal flight instead. Rome2Rio is good for working out travelling around https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Surfers-Paradise/Sydney . Fee free to join our Facebook community too x https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi, I found this information really useful as I’m travelling solo for the first time ever so I’m a bit apprehensive. Would you recommend booking on to one of the tours before I get there or just fly in and go from there? Also what is the job market like for travellers? Is it easy to find work for short periods of time?

Hi Chantelle, Australia is really easy to travel around as a solo so you don’t need to take a tour if you don’t want to. I used the Greyhound bus to get around, the trains, internal flights, hired a car, and then did a week with Oz Experience just to see what a tour felt like. It was fun and took me off the beaten track. I worked in an office in Sydney and Melbourne and also fruit picked on the coast. This was a few years ago so I’m not sure if it has changed. Are you a member of our Facebook community as someone who has been there recently may be able to help more about the job market now? Here’s the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/ x

Hi. is it easy to get a Australian Tourist Visa if you are a pinoy solo traveler? Like i have Korean and Taiwan visa and traveled to mostly asian countries, i have work and sufficient funds for only 4 days tour trip in Sydney? Hope to hear from you. 🙂

Hi Mike, I would look at the Australian visa site for your nationality. You can get a tourist visa if you are on a British passport.

Hi! Currently I have a trip booked to allow 7 full days on ground in Australia with flights to/from Sydney. With this being my first trip to Australia, I’m trying to figure out if I should switch one flight to Melbourne and travel in between the two. I really like the idea of hitting Cairens/Sydney/Melbourne based on your blog but with such short time, I’m not with the travel between. Or should I do day trips from Sydney? Thoughts would be appreciated! I’m so grateful I found your blog and just joined the FB page! One other question, have you take an overnight train? Thought that might be an option as well. Thanks! Brooke USA

Hi Brooke, thanks for your questions. I’ve answered your queries in the Facebook group 🙂 x

Hi! I am 27 and going on my first ever solo trip in mid November this year. I am really anxious and not a clue what I am doing it was just a spur of the moment decision. I am thinking of starting off in Cairns (hopefully meeting my best friend for Christmas day) then heading south along the coast. How easy is it to get accommodation over the Christmas period? Also would you recommend starting in Cairns and working your way down? I would love to travel with someone and I am really hoping I meet people!!!

Hi Melanie, I would pre-book accommodation for the Christmas period as it’s also their summer. Yes, I would recommend starting in Cairns and working your way down. I used Greyhound buses which are good and also Oz Experience x

Hi Melanie,

I am also travelling solo in mid November- hoping to start in cairns and work my way down to Sydney before I fly home in February. Have you made any plans yet? I have no idea where to start with hostel booking etc!!

I’m 26 and doing my first solo trip, I’m heading to Asia first doing a tour then heading to Australia mid-dec and nothing planned as yet as really worrying what to do over the christmas/new year period. II’ve just asked on the group for some suggestions, but we could always meet up along the way. I’m definitely doing the east coast, just not sure what way I’m starting yet possibly Sydney upwards but I’ll wait for some suggestions.

My name Imms. I’m planning to have solo trip to Brisbane on Aug ’18. At first, I will have training in Camp Warrawee for 8 days then I’m free to go. Any suggestions, this is my 1st trip to Australia. Can you advise me for the transport also, pls? How many days should I extend my trip? Thanks in advanced.

Hi Imms, I would suggest Sydney and Melbourne if it’s your first time to Oz. The distances are long so it depends how long you have in the country. Taking internal flights is quicker if you are short on time or you can take the Greyhound Bus or Oz Experience. Have you joined our Facebook community? Some of the girls are in Australia at the moment. Here is the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hi, I’m traveling solo to Brisbane for about 4 days in November. Please suggest any places of interest must go in Brisbane as well public transport to take. Thanks in advanced.

Hi Heather, I used the Greyhound bus to get around and spent some time on the Sunshine Coast which is North of Brisbane. Noosa is really nice. I didn’t find much in Brisbane except the zoo. Have you joined our Facebook group? They are a really friendly bunch. Here’s the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Hey – I’m looling to travel travel between October and November this year! Would love to go on some tours and meet people. Are there any tours you recommend where most people are in the same situation as me??

Hi Demi, Oz Experience is great for meeting people. There are so many travellers in Australia that you’ll meet others in hostels x

What about Western Australia? I had friends start their Around Australia trip there andthey were totally blown away by the vastness of the state, the magnificent beaches, friendly people and so many great sights: Perth’s King’s Park, Swan River, The Pinnacles, Wave Rock, seeing the carpets of Wildflowers during the wildflower season, Karri Forests & giant trees, Monkey Mia’s dolphins, Broome, The Horizontal Falls, Cape Leveque, Diving with whale sharks, the Ningaloo Reef, sandboarding at Cervantes…. WA is such a huge state yet tourists all get told to do the East Coast. Why? I’m going to follow my friends advice and fly and travel through Asia then go to WA and start my Australian adventure there.

Hi Sandra, thanks for your comment. You’re right – Western Australia is fantastic and there is a great reef there too. I think the reason that most tourists get told to go to the east coast is because it can be easier to combine on a first-time itinerary with other places x

Hi!! I absolutely love this informative blog. I am planning to go to the Great Barrier Reef by myself, butI am totally confused if i should do the Whitsundays or Cairns. I am short on time so can be to only 1 of these destinations. Would love to know your thoughts.

Hi Sonal, thanks for your kind words. I would choose the Whitsundays over Cairns if I had to only pick one. Whitehaven Beach is one of the most stunning beaches that I have ever seen x

Hey, I loved your article! I’m thinking about getting a one way ticket to Aus by myself, but I have no idea where to start or what to do! Do you have advice? X

Thanks Veronica 🙂 Australia will be amazing! I would start in Sydney then travel up the east coast to Cairns. If you have time take an internal flight or one of the epic train journeys into the Red Centre. Or you could start from Sydney and travel down to Adelaide x

Hey! you should look into adding ‘Share Bus’ to the guide to get around. It’s a great way to meet people/travel in a small group, which is nice if you’ve just arrived as a solo traveller – you can meet people you can spend time with later on in your trip. They organise a shared rental of a minibus and lots of camping equipment as a way of getting to and from big cities/towns in Aus and exploring the nature in between. It’s super flexible and pretty affordable too 🙂

Thanks Jade. I’ll look into this x

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If you want to travel, and are single or have a partner with no desire to travel, this is the website for you., we are not a dating service.

Destination World Travel, est. 1992, has been creating small group tours for solo travellers since 1999 and in fact were the FIRST agency in Australia to exclusively specialise in travel for singles.

Destination World offer escorted small group tours throughout the year, where you will travel in the company of, and enjoy the social camaraderie of, other solo travellers.  What’s more… you’ll never have to share a room  – you have your own room on each of our tours or cruises – ALWAYS.

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Membership is free of charge.  We invite you to read the testimonials from some of our single travellers and look forward to welcoming you on one of our singles tours soon.

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Finding Love Abroad: Top 8 Travel Ideas For Lonely Adventurers

There are many places to find love abroad, a trend that's becoming increasingly popular. Here are some travel ideas to find your soulmate overseas!

• Discover new love possibilities abroad in Australia, Spain, Brazil, Italy, and more with vibrant cultures and romantic atmospheres.
• Adventure seekers can find love while exploring beautiful destinations like the Faroe Islands, Sweden, New Zealand, and Colombia for unique experiences.
• Whether seeking a partner or enjoying solo travel, these countries offer not only romantic opportunities but also stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

There were 132.3 million unmarried people in the US in 2022. The number can seem like good news for those looking for a partner, but a Pew Research Center survey shows that 57% of single adults in the United States aren't looking for a relationship. So why not look for love overseas?

While some people try their luck on bucket list singles' cruises , there are an increasing number of videos on TikTok described as "passport bros," primarily men seeking a partner in countries they believe are more traditional, although plenty of women are also seeking love abroad as well.

Whatever one's preferences and personal circumstances, some countries seem like perfect destinations for finding love abroad. Yet, when trying to meet people and enter the dating scene overseas, one must be aware that it means going out of one's comfort zone and being committed to understanding and respecting someone else's culture.

For those potentially looking to find their soulmate elsewhere, here are several great travel ideas to find love abroad while also embarking on an adventure in beautiful countries​​​​​​.

Many dating apps offer a "travel mode". This option can give a sense of the dating scene in different countries.

Summer Romance: 10 Perfect Honeymoon Destinations Around The World

8 australia, the country has 6.1 marriages per 1,000 people.

Approximately 37% of adult single people in Australia hope to find a serious relationship in the near future. The country is known for its laid-back vibe, making it relatively easy to connect with people. When dating a local, foreigners can expect dates to involve various activities, from casual beach outings and barbecues to outdoor adventures like hiking and surfing, which often characterize the dating scene. Australia was recently named the friendliest country in the world , too, which is good news for foreigners hoping to try their hand at dating here.

The country is worth visiting, even for those not looking for love. Exploring places like Sydney Harbour and discovering the mind-blowing Great Barrier Reef are unique experiences. The best thing about Australia is that it offers attractions for all types of travelers: cosmopolitan tourists might enjoy the charm of Melbourne's laneways, and nature enthusiasts will love the rugged wilderness of Tasmania and its many charming towns .

Outside of the big and famous cities like Sydney and Melbourne, among others, there are lots of beautiful small towns in Australia to visit as well, which are often overlooked by tourists.

For foreigners up to age 30, Australia offers a working holiday visa program , which opens up a fantastic opportunity for non-Australian citizens to explore the country and work at the same time.

7 Faroe Islands

The country is known for its demographic imbalance.

The Faroe Islands, a remote archipelago perched between Norway, are home to many natural wonders . The country made headlines for its demographic imbalance of 107 men for every 100 women , which means a deficit of 2,000 women, making it a potential destination for those seeking a partner.

Visiting the archipelago is a unique chance to be immersed in the rich Faroese culture, from traditional music and dance to delicious cuisine featuring local specialties like fermented lamb and seafood. The islands offer breathtaking hiking trails and places like the iconic Múlafossur Waterfall . Travelers should plan to visit the country during summer when the days are longer .

Approximately 30% of the adult population is single

Spain is a destination for history buffs, thanks to its many castles and medieval buildings. Beyond being an excellent country to include on a Eurotrip, Spain has a vibrant culture and passionate atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination for single people looking for soulmates abroad.

Spaniards are known for their warm hospitality and affectionate nature. The country's dating scene reflects its lively spirit and PDAs (public displays of affection) are standard in most cities . The country also offers an abundance of cultural treasures to explore, including the iconic architecture of Barcelona (the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell ) and the historic streets of Seville.

As roughly 30% of the adult population in Spain is single , it's a chance to discover the country's fantastic cuisine and wines on a date.

10 Best Scenic Wine Tours To Enjoy In Madrid

Approximately 44% of women are single.

The largest South American country needs no introduction. Famous for its friendly and outgoing atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and impressive Brazilian natural wonders , it's easy to fall in love with this nation as well as its people.

Brazilians are renowned for their warmth and outgoing nature. When visiting Rio, for example, the flirting atmosphere is everywhere, so it's an excellent destination for romance. Yet, most people don't speak English, so learning some Portuguese is a plus before going on any dates in Brazil.

The country is also worth visiting for other reasons, including its rich culture influenced by immigrants and indigenous peoples. Its landmarks include the iconic Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf.

Nearly 48% of the population is unmarried

It isn't a surprise that so many romantic films used Italy as a background, as the country exudes romance. Films like Roman Holidays and Eat, Pray, Love helped to reinforce Italy as the ultimate destination for romance - and they were right. Even when visiting the beautiful towns in Tuscany alone, it's possible to feel the romantic vibe.

Nearly half of the adult population in Italy is single. Yet, each region of the country has a different approach to dating; while in the north (home to places like Milan, Verona, and Venice), people are more formal, in the south, locals are more relaxed. So, single travelers can expect more flirting when visiting places like the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Capri.

10 Affordable Places To Retire In Italy For US Citizens

Approximately 45% of women are single.

There are essential things to know before visiting Colombia , but the first thing travelers should know is that they will discover a rich culture and encounter many outgoing people. Whether discovering Bogotá's lively nightlife or exploring Cartagena's colorful streets, people are often friendly and open to helping.

Flirting comes naturally in Colombia, especially when trying to learn how to dance local rhythms. Even for those not seeking love, Colombia is a remarkable destination, thanks to places like the Coffee region, the archeological wonders in San Agustín, and Tayrona National Park .

Approximately 57% of the population is single

Sweden might come as a good surprise for single people trying to find love overseas. Despite its often low-profile approach, the country has succeeded in promoting gender equality among men and women, assuring that both have the same opportunities.

This equality is also perceived in relationships, where splitting the bill is expected . Foreigners describe the dating scene in Sweden as relaxed and laid-back, and women often praise men for being more direct about what they are looking for.

When visiting Sweden, single travelers can enjoy a date or their own company while visiting Stockholm's Gamla Stan , the old town, wandering through the vibrant markets, and exploring the historic Royal Palace .

Travel Scandinavia: 15-Day Itinerary For Denmark, Sweden, & Norway

1 new zealand, 52% of the population is unmarried.

New Zealand might have a small territory, but it offers an excellent destination for travelers seeking romance. According to the dating website eHarmony , Auckland and Wellington are fantastic destinations to meet someone while enjoying the nightlife. People are often open-minded, too, which can make dating easier.

Like many other countries, online dating is standard in New Zealand, so singles can try their luck with dating apps. While the dating scene in New Zealand seems lively and tempting, the country also offers stunning landscapes, combining mountains with pristine beaches.

Travelers, whether on a date or alone, can enjoy the vibrant city life of Auckland, plan a wine-tasting trip in Marlborough, or go on outdoor adventures in Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of New Zealand", home to lots of adventure sports , or visit (and also stay overnight) at the Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set on New Zealand's North Island.

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Woman’s $10k trip in two months without taking a flight

A woman who isn’t able to step foot on a plane has revealed how she made a trip around the world — in a staggering two months.

Pilot test that’s stumping millions

Wild map of pilot’s historic Aussie flight

‘If I knew this I wouldn’t have moved here’

A British woman spent almost $10,000 and two months travelling to New Zealand – only by train and boat.

Bethany Hearn, from Essex in the UK, was told she wouldn’t be able to fly due to a health condition but didn’t want that to hold her back from getting across the globe.

The “determined” 23-year-old was told by her surgeon that she could no longer travel by plane following complications with surgery in 2022.

Bethany, a yoga and pilates instructor, was set on another visit to New Zealand, having previously travelled there, and ended up on a nearly two-month-long expedition to reach it.

“It started off as a joke with my friends,” Bethany told What’s The Jam.

“I was saying how I really wanted to get back to New Zealand because I love surfing and stuff, [but] then my surgeon said that I couldn’t fly.

“So I just said ‘I’ll get a boat then’ … I’m quite a determined person.”

At 14, Bethany was diagnosed with a rare ear condition called cholesteatoma — an abnormal collection of skin cells. That same year, she travelled by train with her dad on a family holiday to Greece, rather than fly with the condition.

When her condition developed in her early 20s, she had a surgery called a mastoidectomy but found she suffered pain when she later flew.

After medical checks, her surgeon advised that she no longer fly.

“Me being me, I never wanted my diagnosis to hold me back,” Bethany said.

“I just thought why not? I’ll get a boat – people used to in the olden days.”

Bethany’s trip started in Southampton in September 2022, where she got a ship to New York, taking eight days. Next, she took a three-day train from New York to Los Angeles, before spending a week waiting in LA for her next boat.

Finally, she spent 25 days onboard a ship travelling from LA to New Zealand, passing through Hawaii, French Polynesia and Fiji.

“It cost around £5,000,” she explained.

“It was cheaper than I think most people anticipate because I booked really last minute, so I got all the late deals.

“It took almost two months [to reach New Zealand]. I would definitely recommend it to anyone if they can afford it. “It was such an incredible experience.

“My biggest struggle was being quite young in comparison with some of the other travellers, but it was really empowering doing it by myself and not being held back by my diagnosis – and it was really fun.”

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Bethany has remained in New Zealand ever since, though she hopes to return home soon.

“Because I can’t fly, I just got a one-way ticket with no idea when I’d come home,” she added.

“My best friend has just got engaged so I’m hoping to get back to the UK in the next couple of months – but I’m still to sort all the admin!”

When it comes to quick reactions and a sense of direction — pilots need these skills in spades. But how would you do taking the initial entry exam?

Australian adventurer Michael Smith has hit an important first milestone in his mammoth effort to recreate the first seaplane circumnavigation of the country a century ago.

A British expat has shared a hilarious clip about the reality of working in the outback, adding that if she knew this about Australia, she wouldn’t have come.

Meet the Australians tackling loneliness and helping people form meaningful connections

Two years ago, Arran Munro had a falling out with a friend and former housemate and decided to cut ties with their shared social group.

But she found it difficult to make new connections in Sydney.

"For a while honestly, it made me feel like, 'Oh my God, is there something wrong with me?' Every 21-year-old is supposed to have so many friends and I'm just here hanging out with my mum," Arran tells Compass.

"There was just so much shame I had to work through."

Loneliness is often associated with older people, but the research shows it's actually highest among 18 to 24-year-olds .

Clinical psychologist Michelle Lim, who leads the organisation Ending Loneliness Together, wants to reduce the stigma.

"Sometimes Australians say they don't want to be friends with someone who's lonely," Dr Lim says.

"While it's actually not a pathological condition, the way we perceive lonely people, the way we think about loneliness is extremely negative at the moment."

It's an observation that Arran agrees with.

"It's funny because I'm much more okay with saying, 'I'm feeling super depressed'," she says.

"When it comes to saying, 'I'm lonely', that feels weird."

Arran works in social media marketing, but she says online connections are no substitute for face-to-face friendships.

"I think with being on social media a lot, it can be one of those social interactions where it doesn't really fill your cup," she says.

Surrounded but feeling alone

Across all age groups, loneliness is on the rise.

In a 2023 survey of 4,000 Australians aged 18 to 90 , one in three people reported being lonely.

"Loneliness is actually something that's a very natural state for us to be in. What's not natural is that we stay lonely because we're not able to get the help that we need," Dr Lim says.

In response to the increasing rate of loneliness, events and clubs have emerged to help struggling people forge more meaningful connections.

To find out if they're making a difference, Compass  visited a men's exercise and support group, a cake decorating class and a social enterprise giving older volunteers a sense of purpose.

Life after a career in sport

After realising their lives both felt amiss, two Irish expats in Sydney started When No One's Watching (WNOW).

For Tadhg Kennelly, a former Sydney Swans player and coach, loneliness arrived in May of 2020, when he was publicly stood down due to the AFL's COVID cutbacks.

"I wasn't in a great place mentally, it was pretty dark," he remembers.

"I was just shutting myself out of the world and I didn't want to get out of the house."

Around that time, Tadhg's close friend David Eccles was dealing with difficulties of his own.

His life was packed to the brim with work, social commitments and a growing family. But deep down, he was unfulfilled.

David remembers one particular night, being surrounded by family but feeling completely alone.

"I was thinking, 'I can't go on like this, I just can't go on anymore'," he says.

"I was going, 'What's driving this unhappiness?' And it was loneliness, I really boiled it down to loneliness."

'Contagious effect' of opening up

Sensing Tadhg was in a similar headspace, David got in touch.

"My knight in shining armour!" Tadhg jokes.

Gradually, they began reshaping their friendship, swapping Friday nights watching footy at the pub for cafes and deeper conversations.

Then they moved from the cafe to the beach.

"It was cheaper to do exercise on the beach than having coffee every week," David laughs.

That was the birth of WNOW, which now has more than 400 members and chapters across Australia.

Each week, the club starts with a warm-up before a "circle of trust", where men share their highs and lows.

"As men, we're fixers, you know, nobody gives answers in the circle, we just listen," David says.

They do a combined 60 push ups to mark the 60 men who die by suicide every hour.

Afterwards, the men plunge into the water — no matter the weather — then grab a coffee and chat.

"You can just see the contagious effect of people sharing stories," David says.

"It might be sleep, it might be anxiety, it might be marriage, it might be work … but it's a weight that just goes off your shoulders when you share your story."

Connection over cake

In Sydney's inner west, a popular cafe and bakery has begun holding friend-making and cake decorating classes.

Miss Sina is run by German expat Sina Klug and her partner.

Having moved to Sydney by herself in her mid-20s, Sina knows what it's like to build a social circle from scratch.

"I remember how difficult it was to meet people and start over," she says.

"So we really wanted to make sure that we use this [cafe] space not just for baking, but also for human connection and to bring our community together."

After their first event, the participants formed a WhatsApp group, some went to parties together, and half of them even went camping.

Arran Munro decided to give their next event a try and enjoyed the experience.

"It's cuter than I thought it would be — it feels a little bit like a movie in a way, it's very sweet," she says.

"I think everyone feels a bit lonely from time to time and everyone wants to connect … when you sincerely try and do that, people are actually really appreciative."

Keeping busy after retirement

Research shows people 75 years and older are less likely to be lonely , but that doesn't mean they're immune.

Florida Twenlow lives in an aged care home in Sydney and spends most of her time alone in her room.

She says evenings are the worst.

"That's when it's quiet time and everything comes back to remind you, even if you don't want it to," she says.

"It's memories passing by."

To keep loneliness at bay, the 74-year-old volunteers four days a week at Beehive Industries, a social enterprise that provides work for elderly and long-term unemployed people in a mailroom.

In exchange for their time, the "Beehivers" gain a place to connect and home-cooked, healthy meals, made from food that's donated by OzHarvest.

Table tennis, cooking classes and bingo games are also offered to volunteers.

Chief executive Mark Thompson says they get "cranky" if there's not enough work to do.

"They want to work and they socialise amongst each other," Mr Thompson said.

Florida says she looks forward to it every day.

"I really am thankful to Beehive for that," she says.

"I feel proud. I feel a sense of usefulness. I'm not paid for it, but I'm happy I contribute to something good that's helping others."

The Friendship Recession airs on Compass at 6:30pm April 14 on ABC TV or anytime on ABC iview .

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