We Live and Breathe Australia
Founded by passionate explorers with deep roots across Australia, Chandan Travel has spent 15+ years crafting journeys that go beyond the postcard — connecting travellers with the real, extraordinary Australia.
Born from a Love of the Land Down Under
Chandan Travel was founded in 2009 by Sarah Nguyen and Marcus O'Brien, two Sydneysiders who had spent years guiding international students and backpackers across Australia. They saw a gap — travellers from South Asia, Europe, and the Americas wanted more than generic bus tours. They craved authentic, personalised experiences: camping under the Milky Way at Uluru, diving a pristine coral garden on the Reef, or exploring Melbourne's laneway culture with a local who actually calls it home.
Starting with just two tour itineraries and a shared office in Surry Hills, they built the company from the ground up — forging relationships with Aboriginal community tour operators, boutique eco-lodges, and local guides who share their passion for storytelling. Today, Chandan Travel operates from three offices (Sydney, Melbourne, and Kathmandu) serving travellers from over 50 countries.
Our mission is simple: deliver extraordinary Australian experiences that are deeply personal, culturally respectful, and responsibly operated. Every itinerary is designed around your story, not a one-size-fits-all template.
Meet Our Team
Passionate Australians and global travel enthusiasts — united by an obsession with extraordinary experiences.
Sarah Nguyen
Co-Founder & CEO"I will never tire of watching a first-time visitor see Uluru at sunrise. That golden silence is something I've guided 500 people through and it still moves me every single time."
Marcus O'Brien
Co-Founder & Head of Operations"My favourite thing about Australia is that you can be in a busy city one day and utterly alone in the wilderness the next. Tasmania does this better than anywhere on Earth."
Priya Rai
South Asia Liaison & Visa Specialist"I moved from Kathmandu to Sydney in 2012 and I still remember how overwhelming the visa process was. That's why I'm so committed to making it simple for our South Asian travellers."
James Callaghan
Lead Tour Designer & Guide"The Great Barrier Reef is the most biodiverse place I've ever snorkelled. I've been diving it for 12 years and every trip I see something I've never seen before — that's the magic of it."
Our Values
Three principles that guide every decision, every itinerary, and every interaction with our travellers.
Authenticity
We refuse to offer generic tourist experiences. Every tour is designed with local knowledge, genuine connections to communities, and a commitment to showing travellers the real Australia — not just the postcard version. From Aboriginal-led cultural walks to behind-the-scenes winery tours, we dig deeper.
Sustainability
Australia's natural wonders are irreplaceable, and we take our responsibility to protect them seriously. We partner with eco-certified operators, offset our carbon footprint, support Indigenous land management initiatives, and educate every traveller on Australia's biosecurity and environmental protocols.
Personalisation
No two travellers are the same. A family with young children needs a completely different itinerary to a solo adventurer or a couple celebrating their honeymoon. We spend time understanding your interests, pace, and budget — then craft something that feels made just for you. Because it is.
Partners & Certifications
We are proud to be accredited and recognised by leading tourism bodies and industry organisations.
Ready to Plan Your Australian Adventure?
Talk to our team and let's design a trip that's uniquely yours. No obligation, no sales pressure — just genuine expertise and excitement about Australia.