Oceania
Oceania, that mesmerising realm of azure waters, lush landscapes, and cultures echoing ancient songs. From the vibrant coasts of Australia to the dreamy atolls of Tuvalu, from New Zealand’s misty mountains to Fiji’s sandy shores, Oceania is a siren call for those with a thirst for wonder and wanderlust.
At Northern Wanderers, we’ve swapped our boots for flip-flops and journeyed through this captivating region, capturing tales, uncovering hidden gems, and experiencing the heartbeats of its myriad islands. Our travels have woven together the most genuine and illuminating guides for fellow wanderers eager to embrace Oceania’s embrace.
Take a deep breath and plunge into our carefully curated travel sections:
- Australia: Surf the Gold Coast, roam the Outback, or get lost in the urban maze of Sydney and Melbourne.
- New Zealand: Traverse the magical landscapes of the North and South Islands, from Hobbiton’s whimsy to the majesty of the Southern Alps.
- The Pacific Islands: Embark on island-hopping adventures across places like Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, and beyond, each with its unique culture, stories, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of diving in the Great Barrier Reef, the peace of a Fijian sunset, or the cultural tapestry of Maori traditions, our guides pulsate with local knowledge, insights, and secrets waiting to be shared.
Select a country below or search for your destination:
Best Time To Visit
With boundaries stretching from Southeast Asia to Hawaii, Oceania incorporates Australasia and is in the southern hemisphere when it comes to seasonal variations – with more tropical climes the further north you go.
Winter falls between June to August with summer from December through to February. Aside from the seasons, other factors need to be taken into account if you’re looking for the best time to go to Australasia and Oceania as from swimming with humpback whales in Tonga to knowing when stingers congregate around the Great Barrier Reef, this maybe the world’s smallest continent but it still requires a very big calendar.
What To Expect
Australasia: Australasia is made up of Australia, New Zealand, and their neighbouring islands in the Pacific Ocean. For the most part, it’s an easy region to explore with English widely spoken and regular flights between the different countries. It’s home to incredible natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Lord of the Rings filming locations, and some of the best scuba diving conditions in the world.
Melanesia: New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands are a group of islands to the north of Australia. Each island is known for its rich history, unique culture, and exotic landscapes. The easiest way to get to this region is with flights from Australia and New Zealand, or you can fly direct to Fiji from some destinations in Asia and North America.
Micronesia: Micronesia is a northwest region of Oceania. It’s where you’ll find some of the world’s most untouched island destinations such as the Marshall Islands, Kiribati, and one of the least visited countries, Nauru. It’s an easy region for US travelers to explore with English widely spoken and the US dollar accepted in most places.
Polynesia: Polynesia is the most far-flung region of Oceania, but also boasts some of the most beautiful islands in the world. French Polynesia is famous for destinations like Bora Bora and Tahiti, while Easter Island attracts hundreds of visitors a year that want to see the island’s mysterious stone carvings. English is widely spoken in the region as well as French, Spanish, and other indigenous Polynesian languages.
Guides by Country
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oceania
(Note: Oceania is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
The Great Barrier Reef is not only the world’s largest coral reef system but also one of its most breathtaking natural wonders. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres along Australia’s northeastern coastline, it’s a vivid mosaic of marine life, encompassing vibrant coral gardens, myriad fish species, majestic sea turtles, and playful dolphins. Diving and snorkelling here allow for an intimate encounter with this underwater marvel. However, for those less aquatically inclined, island hopping or taking a glass-bottom boat tour offers an equally enchanting experience of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Rotorua, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, stands as a melting pot of geothermal activity and rich Maori culture. Visitors are greeted with the sight of steaming hot springs, mud pools, and erupting geysers. Beyond these natural wonders, the area offers a profound immersion into the Maori way of life. Experiences range from witnessing powerful traditional dances, like the haka, to indulging in a ‘hangi’ feast, where food is cooked using heated rocks in a pit oven, making for a deeply authentic journey.
3. Island-Hopping in Fiji's Tropical Paradise
The archipelago of Fiji, comprising over 300 islands nestled in the South Pacific, epitomises the dream of a tropical escape. Each island beckons with its unique charm, from the pristine snorkelling spots of the Mamanucas to the rugged beauty of the Yasawas. Azure waters, soft sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees craft a picture of idyllic relaxation. Yet, delving deeper, village visits and traditional ceremonies offer visitors a meaningful connection with the warm-hearted Fijian locals.
4. Trailing Through Tasmania's Wilderness, Australia
Australia’s island state, Tasmania, offers nature enthusiasts a diverse playground of wild landscapes. Over a third of this rugged territory is blanketed in national parks and reserves, presenting countless trekking opportunities. The Overland Track, a challenging six-day journey, unveils a shifting backdrop of alpine meadows, dense rainforests, and tranquil lakes. For those yearning for coastal vistas, the Tasman Peninsula promises staggering cliffs and an abundance of wildlife, making every expedition a memorable adventure.
5. Savouring the Wines of Marlborough, New Zealand
Marlborough, situated at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, is often hailed as the country’s premier wine region. Known globally for its crisp Sauvignon Blanc, the area’s vineyards stretch across scenic landscapes under a consistently sunny sky. Wine aficionados and casual drinkers alike can embark on tasting tours, cycling from one vineyard to the next, acquainting themselves with the region’s diverse flavour profiles. Paired with local gourmet produce, a visit to Marlborough promises a delightful gastronomic journey amidst picturesque settings.
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