For students currently in grades 9–12
Special programs & collaborations
Custom Programs

Looking to create a custom program or collaboration?

Travel programs with the Smithsonian Institution for grades 8–12

Challenge yourself academically at the world's most prestigious universities

Non-profit organization offering student travel scholarships

High school youth summit focused on public health, climate change, and equity

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Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

Australia, New Zealand, & Fiji

Adventure in the South Pacific

June 29 — July 29
$12,790 + airfare

Australia, New Zealand, & Fiji

Adventure in the South Pacific

June 29 — July 29
$12,790 + airfare

Immerse yourself in the culture and wonders of the South Pacific on this summer program for high school students to Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. Experience the island paradise of Fiji, the alpine winter landscapes of New Zealand, and the rugged Outback and spectacular coral reefs of Australia. Go beyond the typical tourist experience and engage with places and cultures in exciting ways.

• Participate in a kava ceremony in a traditional Fijian village
• Ski the majestic slopes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps
• Sail as part of a crew through the Whitsunday Islands
• Spot red kangaroos as you hike through the Australian Outback
“The program exceeded our expectations! We hoped our child would connect with the group and make the most out of the trip. He did just that. The Putney group was so well organized that it helped to relieve any anxieties that came up!”
—Amy & Andrew Lasker, Elmhurst, IL

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your leaders in Los Angeles, and fly together to Nadi, Fiji. One day is lost while crossing the International Date Line. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Pacific Harbour, Fiji — 4 days

Start your adventure at an ecolodge in Fiji, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific. Get to know your Putney group and immerse yourself in island life. Learn about Fijian culture and home life in a coastal village that depends on the ocean for sustenance. Participate in a traditional kava ceremony, help prepare meals, and explore the spectacular coast together with local friends. Travel up the Navua River by longboat to visit a remote highland village. Float your way back by innertube, stopping to swim at a secluded waterfall.

Nadi & Yasawa Islands, Fiji — 3 days

Immerse yourself in the multicultural city of Nadi, visit the largest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere, and enjoy the therapeutic goodness of a mineral-rich mudbath. Contrast the bustling and urban way of life in Nadi with the slow-paced traditional life experienced in Pacific Harbour. Explore the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of the Yasawa Islands. Snorkel and scuba dive through vibrant underwater ecosystems and partake in a coral restoration project with marine biologists and the local community. Reflect on your time immersed in this incredible culture and prepare for life down under.

Skiing in New Zealand — 6 days

Fly to Queenstown, New Zealand, located on the rugged and beautiful South Island, surrounded by snowcapped mountains. Ferry across Lake Wakatipu, hike a scenic trail, and make your way down a mountain on the exhilarating Skyline Luge. Visit a selection of New Zealand’s most famous “ski fields,” where adventurers of all abilities ski or board in snow-filled basins above the timberline. Lessons are available for beginners. Explore the alpine town of Wanaka and break into cooking teams to prepare group dinners at your accommodations.

New Zealand Homestay — 3 days

Join Kiwi host families for a two-day homestay. Learn how to shear a sheep, watch a rugby match with homestay brothers and sisters, help make a traditional New Zealand meal, or take a “tramp” with your Kiwi family. Both leaders stay in town during the homestay, and the group gets together for excursions each day.

Christchurch, New Zealand — 1 day

Wrap up your time in Aotearoa