Our off-the-beaten-path itineraries are perfect for those who want to explore New Zealand beyond the typical tourist spots. Let us show you incredible highlights you may have never heard of, discovered over our 10+ years of exploring this beautiful country.
This itinerary includes 2 nights at Moeraki Wilderness Lodge, a farm stay with a home-cooked meal and private tour, boutique wineries, the Putangirua Pinnacles, dense rainforests, Abel Tasman National Park, glow worm cave rafting, Central Otago wineries, Hawea, and Stewart Island.
Enjoy this 4-week tour self-driven with our comprehensive route notes, or opt for a guided experience. Customize the journey to your preferences and create the adventure of your dreams with our expert advice and guidance.
Build your own tour
The activities listed above are just a glimpse of what’s possible! We pride ourselves on creating bespoke experiences tailored to your interests and desires. If you have specific activities or destinations in mind, let us know, and we’ll craft a personalized itinerary just for you. Every journey is unique, and we’re here to make yours perfect. Dream big – your adventure is waiting to be customized!
29-day journey exploring x key destinations across New Zealand's diverse landscapes.
DAY 1
Auckland Arrival
DAY 2
Auckland to Whitianga via Coromandel
DAY 3
Whitianga and Surrounds
DAY 4
Whitianga to Mount Maunganui
DAY 5
Mount Manganui to Pipiriki
DAY 6
Pipiriki to Mairenui Rural Retreat
DAY 7
Mairenui Rural Retreat to Martinborough
DAY 8
Martinborough to Wellington via Putangirua Pinnacles
DAY 9
Wellington
DAY 10
Wellington to Marlborough Sounds via Marlborough Wineries
DAY 11
Marlborough Sounds (Furneaux Lodge) Full Day
DAY 12
Marlborough Sounds (Furneaux Lodge) to Abel Tasman National Park
DAY 13
Abel Tasman National Park
DAY 14
Abel Tasman National Park to Maruia Hot Springs
DAY 15
Maruia Hot Springs to Karamea
DAY 16
Karamea to Punakaiki with Glow Worm Rafting at Underworld Adventures
DAY 17
Punakaiki to Hokitika
DAY 18
Hokitika to Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge
DAY 19
Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge Full Day
DAY 20
Moeraki Wilderness Lodge to Lake Hawea (Cross Hill)
DAY 21
Hawea/Wānaka
DAY 22
Lake Hawea to Clyde via Central Otago Wineries and Orchards
DAY 23
Clyde to Oamaru via St Bathans
DAY 24
Oamaru to the Catlins (Curio Bay)
DAY 25
Curio Bay to Stewart Island
DAY 26
Stewart Island/Rakiura
DAY 27
Stewart Island to Te Anau
DAY 28
Doubtful Sound Day Trip
DAY 29
Te Anau to Queenstown + Departure
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
DAY 9
DAY 10
DAY 11
DAY 12
DAY 13
DAY 14
DAY 15
DAY 16
DAY 17
DAY 18
DAY 19
DAY 20
DAY 21
DAY 22
DAY 23
DAY 24
DAY 25
DAY 26
DAY 27
DAY 28
DAY 29
DAY 1
Auckland Arrival
YOUR DAY
Guided: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a shuttle driver will be waiting for you as you clear customs. This driver will take you to your accommodation in the city. The day and night are free to spend at your leisure and your guide will meet you tomorrow morning.
Self Drive: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport you will collect your rental vehicle within the airport terminal. Make your way to your inner city accommodation where the day and night are free to spend at your leisure and prepare for the adventure ahead.
South you go. Leaving New Zealand’s largest city you head for the Coromandel, one of the key locations for the New Zealand gold rush in the 1800s. You follow the coast road to the town of Coromandel, where you will take a trip on ‘The Driving Creek Railway’- New Zealand’s only narrow-gauge mountain railway, with a working pottery and wild life sanctuary.
From there you will take the stunning 309 Road to the coastal town of Whitianga, stopping at stunning Waiau Falls and the Waiau Kauri Grove – to see ginormous anicent kauri trees up close.
Arrive in Whitianga in the afternoon/evening and enjoy the beautiful Buffalo Beach.
Today is free to explore the beauty of The Coromandel Peninsula. Perhaps take a walk to one of New Zealand’s most stunning beaches; Cathedral Cove where you wander through ancient native forest to the pristine beach that houses this striking rock formation. Other options for the day include a glass-bottom boat trip to a marine reserve, bathing at The Lost Spring, a visit to New Chum’s Beach (self-drive only), horse-riding at a local farm or kayaking to the idyllic other worldly paradise of Whenuakura/Donut Island. You will also enjoy a wine tasting at the incredible Mercury Bay Winery.
Today you are driving to the beautiful Bay of Plenty. First up the scenic dive along the southern end of the Coromandel Peninsula, enjoy beaches such as Ocean Beach & Whiritoa Beach. if you are feeling adventurous perhaps take a kayak out to Whenuakura Island and enjoy the famous donut shaped island.
On your way to Mount Maunganui you may wish to visit Waihi the home of gold mining in New Zealand. When you arrive feel free to explore the area, options including surfing, fishing, and the famous Mount Maunganui summit Hike!
This morning you will pass by New Zealand’s largest lake – Lake Taupō and the active volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park to reach Pipiriki, where you will meet your guide for your mystical Bridge to Nowhere jet boat ride, walk and canoeing trip through the stunning Whanganui National Park.
Tonight you will stay overnight in a beautiful remote location in the park, at Bridge to Nowhere Lodge.
Leave the Whanganui National Park today and venture towards a family farm in the nearby Manawatu Region. First, pass by the ski town of Ohakune and perhaps drive up to the top of the road on the North Island’s tallest mountain and most active volcano – Mt. Ruapehu. On a clear day it is possible to see all the way to the Tasman Sea!
Pass by New Zealand’s premier carrot growing region (and take a photo with their giant carrot statue of course), then continue on to Taihape – “Gumboot Capital of the World.” where you can try your hand at throwing a gumboot in their purpose built gumboot throwing lane.
Following this, drive across the Rangitikei River and marvel at the steep sandstone cliffs of this river, which was used to portray River Anduin in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Tonight you will arrive at the beautiful Mairenui Rural Retreat where you will stay overnight with a kiwi family on a working farm, enjoy a home cooked dinner and breakfast and private farm tour.
You’ll leave Mairenui Rural Retreat via the gorgeous Manawatu Scenic Route after breakfast this morning and head through rolling green hills and alongside the dramatic Rangitikei River, to pass by Ashhurst and admire the wind farm en route.
Following this you’ll head South on State Highway 2 and have the opportunity to visit Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre – home to a very rare white kiwi and other very special native birds.
Passing through some very pleasant small towns (including Greytown which is known as the prettiest town in New Zealand), you can browse the delightful stores and cafes before arriving in Martinborough – the heart of the Wairarapa wine growing region. Here you can visit several beautiful boutique wineries and enjoy a delicious meal overlooking a vineyard. You have the option of renting bikes to ride between vineyards as most in the area are all quite close to each other.
You’ll stay overnight in the lovely little town of Martinborough.
Martinborough to Wellington via Putangirua Pinnacles
YOUR DAY
156km, 2 hours 15 minutes driving
This morning you will take the beautiful drive out to the Putangirua Pinnacles where scenes for The Dimholt Road in Lord of the Rings were filmed. The Putangirua Pinnacles are a stunning yet unusual canyon like landscape surrounded by tall, thin pinnacle rock formations. The impressive scenery here meant that no CGI was needed to create the Dimholt Road nature did it all! Go in search of the Army of the Dead by walking straight through the Pinnacles or take the walk up to the lookout and view this bizarre but beautiful landscape from above.
Next up you will leave picturesque Martinborough and take the drive over the Remutaka Ranges to arrive in Wellington to discover New Zealand’s capital city. Spots on your city tour could take in sights such as Mt Victoria – Wellington’s most spectacular viewpoint with 360 degree views of the city, harbour and mountain ranges in the background, parliament, New Zealand’s national museum Te Papa and Weta Cave where the magic of The Lord of the Rings was created.
Today is your day to explore the Coolest Little Capital in the World! This morning you could 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.
Wellington to Marlborough Sounds via Marlborough Wineries
YOUR DAY
3.5 hour ferry, less than an hour driving
Today you say farewell to the North Island and take a 3.5 hour ferry crossing through the Marlborough Sounds to the South Island of New Zealand, also known as New Zealand’s mainland. Upon arrival in the South Island, the first place that you sight is Picton, known as the gateway to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Driving South you will head through the wine growing region of Marlborough – New Zealand’s largest and producer of 76% of all wine in New Zealand! Here you will stop for lunch at our favourite spot; The Wine Kitchen at Rock Ferry Winery – a boutique certified organic winery that serves delicious locally sourced and interesting dishes (Table will be booked but lunch is not included in quote).
Following this you could visit Cloudy Bay Winery where you can enjoy a wine tasting from a well known wine producer and laze about on their bean bags in the garden, or hang from an egg chair in a tree overlooking their expansive vines. Next up visit Villa Maria, The Vines Village, or both!
Following this you will drive back to Picton to catch the evening ferry to the secluded and beautiful Furneaux Lodge. Enjoy dinner at Furneaux Lodge’s restaurant and if you’re lucky enough, experience the phenomenon of bioluminescence in the water after dark. The Marlborough Sounds are known for bioluminescence sightings and it is a sight to behold!
Today is a day to relax and enjoy the sights of Queen Charlotte Sound. Go for a swim, kayak or grab a good book and soak up some rays in a hammock overlooking the water! You can also walk a part of the Queen Charlotte Track which is accessible from Furneaux Lodge.
Marlborough Sounds (Furneaux Lodge) to Abel Tasman National Park
YOUR DAY
1 hour ferry + 193km, 2 hours 45 minutes driving
Today you will make your way from one spot of beauty to another! Head through the vibrant city of Nelson and perhaps check out the walking track that takes you to the geographical centre of New Zealand! Following this, drive through Motueka, past hop orchards and breweries to the gorgeous golden sandy beaches of Kaiteriteri and the Abel Tasman National Park. Perhaps check out a section of New Zealand’s most popular walk; the Abel Tasman Track. Enjoy lush native forest and golden beaches side by side. Either walk a section to a stunning bay and walk back, or walk further and be transported back by sea shuttle.
Abel Tasman is New Zealand’s smallest National Park and is famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, native bush and spectacular scenery. Today you’ll explore the best of this region with a stunning half day kayaking trip that covers part of a marine reserve. Board a cruise to Medlands Beach where you can relax, swim and explore, then cruise back to Kaiteriteri to kayak in the shelter of one of of New Zealand’s most popular bays. Observe the marine reserve’s playful inhabitants – dolphins, fur seals, penguins and sea birds.
The rest of the afternoon is free to spend at leisure.
Today you will leave the sunny north coast and trade the sandy beaches for hot springs surrounded by massive mountains. Enjoy the wilderness of the Lewis Pass, where you will spend the night at Maruia Springs, a Japanese style onsen nestled in the mountains, surrounded by natural hot springs.
Enjoy a delightful 3 course dinner tonight and 24 hour bathing in hot springs (indoor and outdoor) and a plunge pool, as well as access to all classes provided by Maruia Hot Springs.
You’ll continue your Journey down the western side of the Lewis Pass towards the wild west coast of the South Island. Here you will encounter rainforests dominated by ancient rimu, kahikitea, miro and totara trees and several varieties of native tree ferns.
Perhaps take a detour to Cape Foulwind seal colony as you head North along the magnificent coastline. Head up and over the mountains to reach the peaceful town of Karamea at the very Northern end of SH6.
Venture a little bit further along the road to enjoy a section of the beautiful Heaphy Track – untouched native forests and secluded beaches galore, then also explore the magnificent Oparara Basin Arches. Stay overnight in Karamea.
Karamea to Punakaiki with Glow Worm Rafting at Underworld Adventures
YOUR DAY
152 km, 2 hours 15 minutes driving time
This morning you will head South back over the mountains and down the coast. A bit further past where you came from yesterday you will stop in at Underworld Adventures in Charleston. Here they will kit you up for the trip of a lifetime through their glowworm caves. The journey starts with a trip on their rainforest train, a walk through the rainforest and a journey into their large limestone cave. Following this you will lie on a tube and drift under the light of thousands upon thousands of glow worms on the cave ceiling. This particular cave has more glowworms than any other cave in NZ and the experience is truly cathartic.
Following this you will continue south to Punakaiki where you can enjoy the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes!
Driving South down the coast from Punakaiki, you arrive in Hokitika where you can take a detour inland to visit the stunning bright blue waters and native forests of Hokitika Gorge. Watch the sunset from the famous Hokitika sign on the beach before calling it a night.
This morning you will drive South down the coast from Hokitika, you arrive in Franz Josef Glacier where you will spend the afternoon in the beautiful town surrounded by rainforest. This afternoon you will have the option of a flight over or heli-hike on the majestic Franz Josef Glacier, one of the only glaciers in the world to be flanked by rainforest on both sides (optional – extra cost). Perhaps visit our favourite local spot, Okarito Lagoon and Beach, one of the most scenic isolated wilderness spots on the West Coast.
Drive a further hour to the secluded Moeraki Wilderness Lodge and enjoy dinner in serenity.
Today you have a full day to enjoy Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge & surrounds. Please see complimentary experiences below which you can enjoy:
The Interior of the Rainforest – A Step Back in Time
Discover 1000 year old trees, orchids, and a myriad of ferns. Search for birdlife & learn about the conservation campaigns that saw these rainforests protected in perpetuity as a World Heritage site.
Freshwater Ecology of the Moeraki River
Learn about the inhabitants of a waterway teaming with life. Discover tiny invertebrates that support a complex food web and handfeed giant freshwater eels
Learn Easy Kayaking
Join a trained guide to paddle our safe and stable kayaks. Explore the calm waters of Lake Moeraki and watch waterbirds, spot trout and experience absolute serenity.
Night Sky & Glow Worm Discovery
After dinner take a stroll to learn about the stars of the southern sky and see glow worms light up the rainforest
Or you have the option to enjoy the below half and full day guided trips (optional – extra cost as noted below):
Half & Full Day Guided Trips
Explore further afield with a skilled guide and small group on our longer guided wilderness adventures. The programme will be explained on your arrival and activities don’t need to be booked in advance.
The Wilderness Lodge’s ‘signature walk’ traverses dramatic seacoast. Scramble over volcanic boulders, climb through rainforest and enjoy tea beside a tumbling waterfall. See fur seals year round and penguins from Aug – early Dec.
A gentle walk along a beautiful yet rarely visited piece of coast. Discover rockpools, islands, coastal caves, and see the world’s smallest marine dolphin, Fossick for wave-sculpted driftwood, jade & other gemstones.
Tawaki Penguin Discovery
Walk an unmarked trail to a spectacular beach. Watch the world’s third rarest penguin make their way between the Tasman Sea and their rainforest nests (Aug – early Dec. only)
Moeraki Rainforest Walk, Kayak and Beach Discovery
Hike majestic floodplain forests then kayak a calm lagoon to the coast. See the world’s most epiphyte (perching plant) laden tree (101 species!), and search for gemstones on deserted West Coast beach
Moeraki Pack Track & Historic Hut “Tramping” Adventure
Until 1965 the Moeraki Valley could only be access on foot. This little-used trail now provides access to the upper valley. Cross a swing-bridge spanning thunderous rapids and enjoy lunch in a historic hut.
Moeraki Wilderness Lodge to Lake Hawea (Cross Hill)
YOUR DAY
175 km, 2 hours 45 minutes driving
Today you will enjoy one of the most dramatic journeys in the country is what you can experience on your drive over the Haast Pass through to Hawea. En route you will visit Haast and Haast Pass and you can choose from several nature walks, some of which feature spectacular waterfalls and deep blue coloured pools where it is possible to see trout swimming. One of our favourite spots at The Road Trip is Ship Creek, an isolated beach featuring native totara trees hugging rugged coastline.
Tonight you stay in The Cross Hill domes at the secluded Lake Hawea.
Today is a chance to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Wānaka. 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, or even fishing for some brown or rainbow trout. Perhaps take on Roy’s Peak if you’re feeling especially fit!
Lake Hawea to Clyde via Central Otago Wineries and Orchards
YOUR DAY
83km, 1 hour 10 minutes driving
Today you’ll drive towards Cromwell where you could enjoy lunch at Mt Difficulty Winery in Bannockburn, overlooking Central Otago vineyards. Following this you have the option to enjoy a guided tour through a stone fruit orchard, check out Cromwell’s historic precinct or do some hot laps around the world class tracks of Highlands Motorsport Park! Following this you will make your way to the historic town of Clyde, where you will spend the evening.
From one historic town to the next! This morning you will have time to enjoy Clyde and surrounding areas. Enjoy breakfast at Olivers and next perhaps enjoy a dip in the Clutha River, a hike up to Alexandra’s Clock on the Hill or a wander through the Orchard Garden Maze. Perhaps rent a bike and cycle some of the Central Otago Rail Trail!
Following this you will get on the road and head to the old gold mining town of St Bathans. Here you can enjoy a dip in Blue Lake – a manmade lake carved out for gold extraction and later filled in as a recreation reserve. Enjoy a drink at the historic Vulcan Hotel in the village centre.
Next up, drive through the delightful small town of Naseby – “2000ft above worry level!,” before ending up on the Pacific Coast and stopping in at the Moeraki Boulders. These boulders are concretions that have been exposed through shoreline erosion from coastal cliffs that back the beach, some of which weigh several tonnes and are up to 3 metres in diameter.
Next along the route is the town of Oamaru, famous for its Victorian heritage precinct and steampunk artefacts. This evening you will watch little blue penguins come ashore from a hard day of fishing, before calling it a night!
Today you drive south to The Catlins, a rugged wild landscape featuring fossilised forest, waterfalls, numerous walks and Curio Bay where there is the chance to spot dolphins.
First up, you’ll pass through Dunedin. In and around Dunedin there is much to see and explore, including sights such as Baldwin Street, ‘The Steepest Street in the World’ with gradients reaching up to 35%! Other sights include the historic railway building, university campus buildings and the Otago Museum.
Once you’re in the Catlins, visit Nugget Point. This scenic reserve provides the wonders of nature all around you from remarkable 260-degree sensational views. This walk is an easy, slightly uphill walk from the car park to the lighthouse – 20 minutes return.
103 km, 1 hours and 20 minutes driving + 1 hour ferry
Your first suggested stop for the day is Slope Point – the southernmost point of the South Island and just across from the Curio Bay Cliffs. Take care on the gravel roads but we promise that the precarious drive is worth it for the feeling of being at the edge of the world!
From here you continue around the coast and find yourself in Bluff, the southern most town of the mainland and the spot where the ferry departs to Stewart Island. You take the ferry crossing over to Stewart Island, where the rest of the afternoon is free to take a nature walk, explore some hidden spots on the island or simply relax and absorb the atmosphere.
Tonight you will get the opportunity to see our native kiwi bird on a twilight guided tour. This tour is the best chance to see the endangered nocturnal bird in its natural surroundings. The trip includes a boat journey to a remote part of the island and guided walk with a local expert.
Today you will experience Stewart Island’s smaller neighbouring island; Ulva Island. Here you will enjoy a half day discovering native flora and fauna and bird life. On this predator free reserve, view ancient podocarp trees, lush tree ferns, delicate ground ferns, mosses and orchids. Learn about practical and medicinal uses of trees and plants while listening out for kaka, the exquisite notes of the bellbird and the wonderfully varied calls of the Tui. Watch lime-green parakeet flying amongst the treetops. Glimpse rare saddleback and yellowhead and try to spot New Zealand’s smallest bird; the rifleman.
Tonight you can relax and further enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Stewart Island.
This morning you will catch the ferry back to the mainland and Bluff. Explore all the attractions Invercargill has to offer. First up we recommend you visit Bill Richardson Transport World, this museum began in a back shed has been transformed into something truly spectacular. This is now the largest private automotive museum of its type in the world, boasting more than 300 spectacular classic vehicles.
After this we recommend you check out the Classic Motorcycle Mecca, regularly described as ‘stunning’ and ‘mind-blowing’ in scale, as its the Southern Hemisphere’s leading motorcycle museum. Offering New Zealand’s most diverse collection.
Next up, head inland to Te Anau – known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, which covers approximately 1.2 million hectares. In the afternoon there is the possibility to take one of the many short walks in the area.
Today you will drive the 20 minute trip to Manapouri Harbour for your day cruise through Doubtful Sound. This spectacular journey starts with a cruise to the other side of Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over a pass to the fjords followed by a magical afternoon cruising through the towering peaks and stunning waterfalls of Doubtful Sound. The trip also passes by the famous Manapouri power station.
In the afternoon, return to Te Anau and enjoy a further night on the beautiful shores of the lake.
You will head to Queenstown, ‘New Zealand’s adventure capital of the world’. 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. Today you will transfer to Queenstown Airport for your further travel arrangements. We trust you’ve had a wonderful time here in New Zealand!
Your choice of accommodation. Silver (4 star), gold (5 star) or platinum (luxury lodge) options available
Most breakfasts, select lunches and dinners
A choice of self-drive and privately guided transport
In-depth and detailed custom travel guide
Listed activities (the list is fully customisable)
Full insurance coverage on rented vehicles
Overnight parking where necessary
Custom tour creation with one of our travel experts
What’s not included?
Return international flights
Personal travel insurance
Some lunches and dinners
Individual shopping and souvenirs
Extra, optional activities
Why book a privately guided road trip
Bespoke Itineraries
Bespoke Itineraries
Personalised tours tailored to your preferences
Authentic Kiwi Experiences
Authentic Kiwi Experiences
Genuine insights into New Zealand's culture
Flexible Bookings
Flexible Bookings
Secure and adaptable travel arrangements
Private Travel Safety
Private Travel Safety
Safe, crowd-free, intimate exploration
Local Expertise
Local Expertise
In-depth knowledge from a Kiwi-owned business
New Zealand's Top Awarded Tours
New Zealand's Top Awarded Tours
Winner of Tripadvisor’s ‘Travelers choice’ over multiple years & our 100+ 5 star reviews
Explore New Zealand like a local with this off the beaten path itinerary. I love showing my clients a wide range of special hidden gems during their time in New Zealand, including places I have discovered by chance and spots I loved as a kid. Come and explore these spots for yourself!
Alex
General Manager
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can we make the trip shorter or longer?
A: Yes, we can adjust the trip length to fit your schedule. For a shorter trip, we recommend focusing on one island. However, feel free to talk to us as we have many more ideas and hidden gems like New Plymouth and Gisborne that you might want to include. We can tailor the trip to your preferences.
Q: Can we stay at Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)?
A: Yes, we can arrange stays at charming B&Bs. However, please note that availability can be limited, especially in more remote areas. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred accommodations.
Q: Can we have a 4WD for the gravel roads?
A: Yes, we can arrange a 4WD vehicle for your trip, which is ideal for navigating gravel roads. If you’re concerned about driving on gravel, we can also plan a route that avoids these roads, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Q: Can we have a part-guided, part self-drive tour?
A: Absolutely! Splitting the islands works well, with a guide helping you get accustomed to New Zealand. You can enjoy the flexibility of a self-drive experience while benefiting from the expertise of a local guide for part of your journey. This allows you to make the most of your adventure.
Our trip was amazing, everything happened just as it was supposed to! I really appreciate Yamila’s efforts to plan our trip just as we asked, everything was well organized. From our transportation arrangements to our private guide Glenn who took us to the Blue mountains, the personnel were excellent. We packed a lot in 3 days each Sydney and Ayers Rock.
C B
Mar 2025
Sydney-Gold Coast Self-Drive Road Trip
Dear Yamila & The Road Trip Team
Thank you for your making my Sydney-Gold Coast Road Trip a smooth one. I would say there wasn't any hiccup along the trip. Everything well taken care of; from airport transfer to hotel bookings to rental car and some tour bookings. My family really enjoyed the holiday. What I really love was the freedom to drive anywhere with recommendations to go. It was very comprehensive. My kids loved the hotels you booked for us, especially the Anchorage and Pepper Soul! You made our maiden road drive in Australia to a new level. It is definitely an memorable experience. We are already thinking of another road trip in Australia!
Thank you once again!
Flyer786747
Jun 2024
21-Day Australia Trip
21-day Australia trip was fabulous. We didn't want to drive the Australian roads, so The Road Trip organized all of the hotels, transportation and guided tours. The Road Trip team, especially Yamila, had everything planned and they even helped make changes as new opportunities came up. The trip itinerary appealed to everyone as there was the perfect combination of beach, sightseeing, tours, downtime, and outdoor activities. Our favorites included: penguin parade, full-day snorkel tour, night walk tour in the rainforest, and the canyon hike through the Blue Mountain National Park. All six of us agreed that we couldn't have seen or done as much as we did if it wasn't for The Road Trip team. We will be contacting you again for our next trip!
Linda E
Mar 2024
They do all the work, you have all the fun!
I want to thank Road Trip Australia for planning and coordinating such a great itinerary. I wouldn’t have known where to start doing it on my own. They made it easy. The packet they provided was full of good information and allowed me to maximize the time that I had to tour. I definitely recommend them to plan your trip.
Elizabeth B
Nov 2020
21 Day Self Driving/Guided Australian Holiday
The Road Trip put together our recently completed self-driving tour of Australia. They were easy to work with and did an outstanding job of arranging our accommodations and travel in country (both driving and flying). We started in Melbourne with an excellent tour of the central city. We then heading over to the Yarra Valley for two nights. It’s an area known for its vineyards and wine making. Then it was off to the Great Ocean Road for two days of beautiful beaches and great stops recommended by The Road Trip. We spent two days in charming Port Fairy at a great boutique hotel. Then it was back to Melbourne to head to Sydney. Some weather issues prevented us from traveling as planned but we did spend a day and a half in Sydney with the highlight being a climb to the top of the Harbor Bridge. After Sydney we spent two days in the Blue Mountains. Our plans were limited by the recent fires which was disappointing. We spent one day in the Hunter Valley and if you are into wine another day would be appropriate. Then back to Sydney to fly up to the Great Barrier Reef. The rainforests and reef were magical. Wavelength did a great job with the reef snorkeling tour. It was then back to Melbourne for the Australian Open which was a blast. Then finally a trip to Phillip Island to watch the penguins come back to their burrows after a busy day in the sea. Overall a memorable trip and it was logistically very easy with The Road Trip.
