UQ alumni travel program

 

We’re going places

Embark on an extraordinary journey with your fellow alumni in our exclusive travel program, in partnership with Flight Centre.

Join us as we venture through majestic landscapes, biodiversity hotspots, historical wonders and cultural centres with UQ academic hosts, providing an exclusive and enriching travel experience.

UQ is headed on an adventure of lifelong learning around the world – don’t miss out!

Destinations on sale

While this tour is now sold out, you can join the waitlist and we will get in touch if a spot becomes available.

One of the most incredible wildlife destinations on the planet! Snorkel with wildlife, kayak in turquoise waters off pristine beaches and spend time enjoying some of the most impressive scenery in all of the Galápagos Islands.

Highlights:
• Join a small group tour of up to 30 participants hosted by UQ’s Professor Bernard Degnan, an expert in marine biology and evolution
• Spot lava lizards and Darwin finches on the walk to Las Grietas, a crystal-clear swimming hole tucked between volcanic cliffs
• Spy marine iguanas at Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island
• Encounter giant tortoises at the conservation centres on Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands
• Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a hub for conservation and research into the islands’ unique ecosystems
• Hike across the rim of Sierra Negra, the world’s second-largest volcanic crater
• Stand on the equator at the Middle of the World, with one foot in each hemisphere

Departure: Sunday 3 May 2026
Duration: 10 days/ 9 nights
Cost guide: $5,094 per person twin share (excluding airfare)
Single supplement: $479 (subject to availability)
We are excited to launch bookings for our UQ Alumni Travel Program 'Wonders of Italy' tour, in partnership with Flight Centre.

Highlights
• Small group tour of 46 participants hosted by Associate Professor Andrea Bubenik, School of Communication and Arts
• Visit the mighty Colosseum, admire the magnificent ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
• Explore the villages of the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Discover Renaissance treasures, extraordinary art and exquisite architecture in Florence
• Indulge in the flavours of Italy over lunch, wine and olive tasting at a local family farm, located on the ancient road between Siena and Florence
• Wander through alleys and over ornate bridges in Venice and witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassblowing

Departure: Sunday 6 September 2026
Duration: 11 days/10 nights
Cost guide: $6,265 per person twin share (excluding airfare)

Proposed destinations

Heron Island 2027
Back by popular demand! Join us again for exclusive behind the scenes access to the UQ Heron Island Research Station – the oldest and largest marine research station on the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Not only will you be able to relax and enjoy the spectacular island, you'll also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the reef. Join UQ's marine scientists as you swim or snorkel with the local marine life, take a reef walk and learn about the challenges facing one of the 7 natural wonders of the world.

Departure: February or March 2027
Duration: 3 days
Cost guide: To be confirmed closer to the event

Accommodation is available at the Heron Island Research Station (shared accommodation) or at the Heron Island Resort.
2028 Australian total solar eclipse
Wonder at the total solar eclipse as it crosses Australia alongside a UQ academic expert. Viewing location to be determined if there is sufficient interest.

Departure: July 2028
Duration: 3 days
Cost guide: dependant on location

Testimonials

Greece alumni tour 

Keith (Bachelor of Educational Studies '78) and Sue (Bachelor of Arts '79)

Keith and Sue at the Parthenon
Keith and Sue at the Parthenon

"The accommodation, meals and extra experiences were top class and the alumni group were fantastic, it was as if we had known them for years. The icing on the cake was having Professor Alastair Blanshard accompany us. This has been one of our favourite holidays and we would recommend it to anyone."

 

 

 

 

 

Jim (Bachelor of Arts '91) 

UQ alumni in Greece
UQ alumni in Greece

"Touring with UQ alumni of diverse career backgrounds and ages allowed easy conversations around dinner tables and at the great sites visited. The bonus to the tour was in having the alumni manager on board supporting the group and the immeasurable lift to the experience through having the erudite and entertaining Professor Blanshard with us."

 

 

 

Heron Island Research Station alumni tour 

Steve (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery '84)

Keith and Sue at the Parthenon
UQ alumni at Heron Island Research Station

“I just loved the fact that almost always the person next to you was an expert on something and all of the speakers were so enthusiastic.”

 

 

 

 

 

Disclaimer

The details provided in the above travel program are subject to change. Final details including itinerary, dates and cost will be confirmed and communicated in 2025.

*Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices are based on twin share unless otherwise stated. Additional fees, including surcharges and visa fees specific to your departure date may apply. Airfare not included unless otherwise stated. 

 

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