Australia and New Zealand Discover Down Under Highlights Tour

Welcome to Sydney, Australia’s largest city.

You will be met at the airport by private shuttle and transferred to your inner city hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore this incredible city at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens or along Darling Harbour. Your interactive travel app provided will have some great suggestions on where best to eat, drink, explore and enjoy your surroundings.

Bespoke options today include:

• Harbour dinner cruise
• Sydney bridge climb
• Taronga zoo visit
• Whale watch

Let us know when you flight arrives, as this changes what we can plan for you!

This morning you will enjoy a guided tour of Sydney Opera House to learn all about the history of Australia’s most iconic building. This afternoon you will take a walking tour and discover some of Sydney’s most intriguing aspects of the Rocks area as well as learning all about the history of its resident sailors, convicts and others that used to inhabit the area.

Later this afternoon we suggest a visit to the Sydney Aquarium to learn all about Australia’s vast variety of marine life.

Tonight you have the opportunity to further enjoy some of Sydney’s fantastic culinary hot spots. Your interactive travel app will have some great recommendations at your fingertips.

Bespoke options today include:

• Surfing lessons at Bondi Beach
• Private Sydney Harbour sailing experience
• Guided food and coffee tour of Surry Hills
• Helicopter tour over Sydney and its beaches
• Anything else you can think of!

This morning we will arrange for you to collect your vehicle rental. From here you depart Sydney City and head west toward the Blue Mountains, one of Australia’s most picturesque gems featuring breath-taking vistas and cascades. On arrival into the region, we suggest taking several nature walks including stunning Wentworth Falls with its grand valley views and picturesque waterfall (45 minutes-1 hour return). We will have several fantastic suggestions for you. From here continue to Katoomba where you will visit Scenic World for superior views of the region. Experience a breath-taking journey on the scenic skyway with views of the Three Sisters and Jamieson Valley, ride Australia’s steepest passenger railway on the World with its glass roofed carriages through ancient rainforest and enjoy a trip on the Scenic Cableway for views of Orphan Rock, Mt Solitary and the Katoombah Falls. There is also the opportunity to take a scenic walk through Jurassic Forest at the bottom station. Tonight stay in the heart of the national park.

YOUR DAY

3 hours return to caves

Today be prepared for some spectacular scenery and one of the highlights of the region with a drive through the Grose Valley with its canyons, look out spots and stunning cascades. First up visit Govetts Leap look out and enjoy the panoramic views and vistas that await you. There is the opportunity here to take a scenic bushwalk and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Keep a look out for Bridal Veil Falls, the highest falls in the Blue Mountains at 180m. Enjoy a further night with spectacular views in the Blue Mountains. Also today Embark on a trip to explore the ancient Jenolan Caves, renowned for their stunning limestone formations and crystal-clear subterranean rivers. The journey to the caves offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Greater Blue Mountains Area. Post-cave exploration, dine at the historic Caves House, embracing the serene wilderness that surrounds you.

Bespoke options today include:

• Abseiling and rock climbing adventures
• Private botanical gardens tour
• Blue Mountains cultural art workshop
• Star gazing night tour

YOUR DAY

1 hour 30 minutes driving – Blue Mountains to Sydney Airport

3 hours 10 minutes flying time – Sydney to Cairns

1 hour driving – Cairns to Port Douglas

This morning you will drive through to Sydney Airport, drop off your rental car and take a domestic flight to Cairns. From here and upon collection of a rental car, take the short drive north to the tropical haven of Port Douglas. This town is the gateway to Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. En route you will stop at the beautiful Palm Cove, where you can stroll along the sea lined with ancient paperbark Melaleuca trees. There will be the option to stop here for lunch and dine at one of the restaurants along the Esplanade. The Palm Cove Jetty is one of the area’s best fishing spots and there is the opportunity of enjoying some angling from here. Palm Cove also borders on the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site and the Macalister Range National Park. Continue on to Port Douglas where you will spending the next three nights.

YOUR DAY

This morning make your way to discover the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway with a chance to view the incredible tropical rainforest from above.  You will also get the chance to discover some of the areas fantastic spots in the Maccalister Range National Park. Upon return to Port Douglas spend the evening at leisure.

Bespoke options today include:

• Rainforest canopy bungee jumping
• Indigenous cultural cooking class
• Wildlife photography tour
• River rafting on the Barron or Tully River

Today you will be experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, cruising to the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an important area for worldwide conservation and diversity. Today you will visit 3 different sites on Wavelength and a chance to go snorkelling. This day trip includes a delicious deli style lunch. Return to Port Douglas in the evening and enjoy at leisure.

Bespoke options today include:

• Private Charter Snorkel or Dive
• Luxury Sailing Experience
• Helicopter Reef Tour

YOUR DAY

Embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure through Tropical North Queensland, beginning with a ferry crossing over the Daintree River, leading you into the heart of a vibrant, off-grid community surrounded by the lush Daintree Rainforest and the majestic Great Barrier Reef. Visit the breathtaking Alexandra Lookout, trek the ancient Marrdja Boardwalk, and indulge in exotic ice cream at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. Continue your journey to the untouched wilderness of Cape Tribulation Beach and marvel at the 500-year-old Fig Tree. Traverse the scenic Bloomfield Track, connecting to the Indigenous township of Wujal Wujal, and immerse yourself in the art and stories of the Bana Yirriji art centre. As you leave Wujal Wujal, the adventure concludes, leading you back towards the coastal haven of Port Douglas, wrapping up an unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes.

YOUR DAY

66km, 1 hour driving from Port Douglas to Cairns

+ 2 hours 45 minutes flying time Cairns to Uluru

This morning you will drive to Cairns Airport and board a flight to Uluru. Upon arrival you will be transferred by shuttle to your hotel, where the rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. Your resort hotel offers a number of indigenous cultural experiences, from bush food, to a museum tour, to guided walks and the Mani Mani Indigenous Cultural Theatre. This evening you will be enjoying the Sounds Of Silence; a magical four hour experience of dining in the outback with the stunning backdrop of Uluru behind you.

YOUR DAY

Join the Traditional Uluru Family on an exclusive journey to their homelands, Patji, located just outside the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This unique experience offers a deep dive into the world’s oldest living culture through the eyes of its custodians. Travel by 4WD across the desert with an Aboriginal guide, pausing to hear pivotal stories, including Paddy Uluru’s fight for Aboriginal land rights. The Uluru family shares their personal narratives, offering insights into their traditional ways of life before tourism. The journey culminates at a private sand dune, where you’ll witness the vast desert landscape stretching out towards Uluru and Kata Tjuta, providing a profound perspective on this sacred region.

Bespoke options today include:

• Outback cycling around the base of Uluru
• Indigenous dot painting workshop
• Astro photography tour of the night sky
• Outback skydiving

YOUR DAY

Embark on an early morning guided trek around Uluru’s 12-kilometer base to experience the desert’s stunning sunrise and delve into the ancient land’s culture and environment. This journey offers a unique opportunity to explore serene waterholes, ancient rock art, and learn about Uluru’s importance to the Anangu, the local Aboriginal people, through stories and Creation myths. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the desert’s tranquil sounds before completing the circuit. This day trip not only highlights Uluru’s natural beauty but also provides a deep insight into the spiritual significance of this iconic site, leaving you with a lasting appreciation of its cultural heritage.

YOUR DAY

3 hours flying time

This morning you will be transferred to Uluru Airport and take a domestic flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival and pick up a new rental car to take into the city. You will be taken on a fantastic walking tour of the inner city and discover the area by foot. Sites include Federation Square, Melbourne’s Street Art, Chinatown and Princess Theatre as well as discovering some of the city’s best cafes and hidden bars. You will also take a visit to Eureka Tower or fantastic panoramic views of the city centre and its surrounds.

Bespoke options today include:

• Coffee culture walking tour
• Hot air ballooning over Yarra Valley
• Melbourne street art and laneways photography tour
• Private tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

YOUR DAY

196km, 2 hours 40 minutes driving

This morning after leaving Melbourne take the drive around Geelong to Lorne and the Great Ocean Road. On route perhaps make a detour to stop for photos at Bells Beach and paying a visit to Torquay, one of Australia’s premier surfing destinations. We recommend checking out the National Surf Museum and the beach famous for the Rip Curl Pro, one of the most sought after titles on the world championship circuit. Arriving in Lorne, we suggest checking out some of the many fantastic vistas and walking spots that the surrounding area has to offer. The final part of your drive today follows cliff-tops offering incredible views and alongside wild beaches. Arriving in Apollo Bay enjoy an afternoon strolling around the small village and admiring your surroundings.

YOUR DAY

202km, 3.5 hours driving

Leaving Apollo Bay your drive takes you into Cape Otway National Park, one of Australia’s many coastal wonders. For those adventurous enough, we recommend stopping at Otway Fly Tree Top Walk and partaking in an adrenaline zip line tour. From there explore the Cape Otway light station and its breath-taking cliff top views. Further up the road you will discover the world-famous Twelve Apostles as well as Loch Ard Gorge. There is the opportunity here to do one of our several nature walks encompassing the majestic coastal views and limestone formations. For those that want a more panoramic view of the Twelve Apostles, there will be the opportunity to view the area by helicopter (at additional cost) Your next stop is Logan’s Beach, known for its Southern Right and Blue Whale visits in winter. Your destination for the evening is the charming fishing Village of Port fairy where you will spend the night.

YOUR DAY

297km, 4 hours driving

+ 3.5 hours flying time

Leaving Port Fairy, we recommend making a stop on route to Geelong and enjoying some great coastal views. From here drop off your rental car in Melbourne Airport and take your included flight to Queenstown.

Upon arrival at Queenstown Airport you will collect your rental vehicle within the airport terminal. Make your way to your accommodation where the day and night are free to spend at your leisure and prepare for the New Zealand adventure ahead.

YOUR DAY

287 km, 3 hours 45 minutes driving

Be prepared for one of the jewels of the New Zealand landscape! The drive to Milford Sound is one of the most spectacular in the world and certainly a highlight on any New Zealand tour. En route you will see spectacular valleys, breath taking mountains and hopefully spot the cheeky Kea (New Zealand’s mountain parrot). Upon arrival in Milford Sound, board the Milford Mariner and spend an incredible night in the fiord under the stars. You’ll have an opportunity to enjoy kayaking, followed by a buffet dinner and breakfast.

YOUR DAY

343km, 4 hours 45 minutes driving

This morning on your trip to Wanaka there is the opportunity to take some short walks in the Fiordland National Park. Skirting your way around Lake Wakatipu makes for some stunning photography and you will be amazed by the Remarkables Mountain Range, one of the most famous back drops for Lord of the Rings. This Afternoon your tour takes you over The Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest highway to Wanaka.

Today is a chance to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka. Options include a walk up one of our favourite look out spots featuring 360 degree views of Lake Wānaka, Mount Aspiring National Park and the Clutha River, a visit to Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World, kayaking on the lake, a visit to the Warbirds and Classic cars Museum or even fishing on the lake for some brown or rainbow trout. Perhaps take on the majestic Rob Roy Glacier hike or venture Roy’s Peak if you’re feeling especially fit!

This afternoon you will enjoy a cruise to one of Lake Wanaka’s five islands, Mou Waho. Mou Waho Island is the most remote and in our opinion, the most beautiful of the five. With its steep rocky coastline, small secluded beaches, diverse birdlife and a hidden lake (Arethusa pool) which sits atop the island. A knowledgeable guide will accompany you on the two hour island walk and share insights on the geology, history, flora and fauna and local culture of the region.

Bespoke options today include:

• Private scenic flight over Mount Aspiring and Fiordland
• Guided electric mountain bike tour
• Wanaka lavender farm and honey tasting tour
• Luxury spa day with mountain views

YOUR DAY

314km, 3 hours 45 minutes driving

You leave Central Otago today and cross the Lindis Pass (965m) to the Mackenzie Country, known for its Merino Sheep and wool industry. Weather permitting you can take a short walk at the foot of Mt Cook – New Zealand’s highest mountain. En route to Lake Tekapo, perhaps take a trip to the top of Mt John to experience the feeling of being on top of the world. This boasts stunning 360 degree views of the Mountains and turquoise coloured lakes (Road open until 5pm – $8 entry fee). Tonight you will stay in the town of Lake Tekapo and enjoy its turquoise coloured waters.

Tonight you will enjoy a stargazing tour atop Mt John with Dark Sky Project. At 1,029m high, Mt John offers unrivalled 360-degree views across the largest accredited International Dark Sky Reserve in the world. Their expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing the science and the stories of our Southern skies. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies; every night sky beholds something different.

YOUR DAY

227km, 3 hours driving

This morning you depart Lake Tekapo and continue on to Christchurch. The afternoon is free to explore The Garden City of Christchurch. You could enjoy a stroll in the botanic gardens and a drive around the bays of Banks Peninsula, taking in Lyttelton which was the gateway for many of Christchurch and the Canterbury region’s first European settlers. Cathedral Square and the remains of the Christchurch Cathedral are well worth a visit, as well as the revitalised central shopping area and Riverside Market.

OUR DAY

Today you have a full day to explore Christchurch and enjoy all that the city has to offer. Stroll the shops of the Arts Centre, wander Riverside Market and the surrounding retail areas, newly developed Avon River banks, check out the stunning Margaret Mahy Playground, pause for a drink along beautiful New Regent Street, or check out the International Antarctic Centre! You will also have the chance to see the Christchurch Cathedral up close which is currently being restored following the 2011 earthquake. Wander a few streets away and visit the transitional cathedral also which is the Anglican Church’s current place of worship. This impressive structure was designed by a renowned Japanese architect known for his disaster relief projects; Shigeru Ban. The building is made primarily of cardboard tubes, which have been reinforced with timber and steel to make them earthquake-resistant. This impressive structure was able to be built very quickly thanks to Shigeru Ban’s choice of materials and innovative design techniques.

Bespoke options today include:

• Akaroa Harbour wildlife cruise
• Christchurch gondola and hillside tramway dinner
• Antarctic Centre behind-the-scenes tour
• Guided street art tour

YOUR DAY

6 hour train journey + ferry

This morning, embark from the Garden City of Christchurch on a journey that weaves through the idyllic Canterbury countryside aboard the Coastal Pacific train, renowned for its scenic beauty. Traverse the stunning Kaikōura Coastline, celebrated for its rich marine life and opportunities for whale watching, where the rugged coastlines meet remote beaches, offering views of a lifetime between the mountains and the sea. Continue along the vineyards of Blenheim, where New Zealand’s premium wines begin their journey from vine to bottle. Your picturesque journey concludes as you arrive in Picton, from where you’ll take the ferry across to Wellington, savoring the serene beauty and transformative landscapes of New Zealand’s railways and waterways.

Bespoke options include:

• driving (with ferry) or flying between Christchurch & Wellington instead
• Kaikōura whale watching by plane (adding a night)
• Seal colony and lighthouse tour

YOUR DAY

Today is your day to explore the Coolest Little Capital in the World!

This morning you will take the Cable Car from the city up to Kelburn, where you will be able to wander the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Late morning, perhaps hop on the free shuttle to Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, with an extraordinary 500-year vision to restore a Wellington valley’s forest and freshwater ecosystems as closely as possible to their pre-human state. The 225 hectare ecosanctuary is a groundbreaking conservation project that has reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife back into the area, 6 of which were previously absent from mainland New Zealand for over 100 years.

Tonight why not enjoy one of the delicious restaurants the city is famous for? Wellington is known as the cultural capital of New Zealand and due to its small size, the majority of the city can easily be covered on foot.

Bespoke options today include:

• Craft beer tasting and brewery tour
• Guided tour of Te Papa Tongarewa Museum
• Private Lord of the Rings filming locations tour in Wellington

YOUR DAY

450km, 5.5 hours driving

Departing from Wellington, you embark northward, venturing into the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Your journey begins by traversing the rugged west coast of the Kapiti area, moving through quaint towns each with their own charm – from Taihape, the Gumboot throwing capital of the world, to Waiouru, with its NZ Army Museum. As you continue, Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, greets you with the opportunity for a picturesque lunch stop, with views that may include the iconic Mount Doom on the horizon. Your adventure leads you next to the Huka Falls, an awe-inspiring natural wonder showcasing the power of nature with its thunderous waters.

Your route concludes as you arrive in Rotorua, a city famed for its rich Maori culture and thermal wonders. Here, amidst the geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, you’re invited to delve deeper into the geothermal marvels and cultural heritage that make Rotorua a destination like no other.

YOUR DAY

Your first stop for the day is Waimangu Volcanic Valley – a Wonderland of Stunning Geothermal Activity. You will see the world’s largest hot spring, sinter terraces and stunning hot and cold pools of many different colours. You’ll also enjoy a cruise above the once famous Pink and White Terraces, buried by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886 (included activity).

This evening you will enjoy an authentic cultural experience at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village). In the summertime, Te Pā Tū offers their Summer Harvest Celebration experience, “Tū Te Rā.” Tū Te Rā is a summer celebration, aligned with the maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar. This is a time when the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tū Te Rā celebrates the abundant harvest of this season, and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Māori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine.

Bespoke options today include:

• Zorbing at OGO Rotorua
• White water rafting on the Kaituna River
• Thermal hot springs spa day
• Redwoods Tree Walk at night
• Volcanic flights

YOUR DAY

245 km, 3 hours driving

This morning you will drive to Waitomo, New Zealand’s most extensive underground caving network. Take a boat ride through the glowworm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history.

Following this you continue to Auckland.

YOUR DAY

Today you will transfer to Auckland Airport for your onward travel arrangements. We trust that you’ve had an excellent time in New Zealand and wish you safe travels to your next destination.

Onward flight is not included.