Welcome to Alice Springs

Immerse yourself in the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station precinct and learn about the overland telegraph line as you discover its historic buildings. Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges on a walk through the dramatic Simpsons Gap. Relish spectacular views across Alice Springs from Anzac Hill before some free time to explore the town or relax by your resort pool. Join your fellow guests at the Tali restaurant for a Welcome Dinner.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

Alice Springs - Kings Canyon

Now we're off the beaten track exploring along the 4WD Giles Track crossing driver river beds and outback landscapes to Kings Canyon Resort. The flickering glow of this evenings fire under the canopy of a starry southern hemisphere sky is the perfect accompaniment to your Under a Desert Moon highlight dinner. This degustation dinner with matching wines is the perfect indulgent end to the day.

Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort, Deluxe Rooms

Kings Canyon - Uluru

Gaze across the deep chasm at the edge of Kings Canyon as you embark on a sunrise 6km rim walk past the domed ‘Lost City' and down into the luscious ‘Garden of Eden'. Immerse yourself while visiting the Wanmarra Community with local Aboriginal people and learn about the Luritja and Pertame people’s spiritual connection to the land. Discover bush food and bush medicine used for spirituality and healing. Wandering across desert landscapes leaving Kings Canyon behind and arriving for lunch at Curtin Springs Station, a vast farming property. Feel the stirring of something bigger than you as you arrive in Ayers Rock Resort, your launchpad to Australia's fiery heart in the Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. This afternoon, travelling to Uluru as the day fades, the outback sun bids a fiery farewell. This is the perfect backdrop for included sparkling sundowners while overlooking Uluru.

Hotel: Sails in the Desert Hotel, 2 Nights

Uluru & Kata Tjuta

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day before exploring, and learning about the spiritual connection the local Anangu caretakers have with the land. Skirt the red walls of Uluru, hear ancient tales and see rock art, and then visit Mutitjulu Waterhole. Relax by the resort pool or take to the skies to see Uluru from above before an afternoon visit to Kata Tjuta for a walk through Walpa Gorge. The evening enjoy dinner at Ilkari Restaurant.

Field of Light - Uluru - Alice Springs

Observe the shifting lights of Bruce Munro’s impressive Field of Light art installation as the desert awakens and the sunrise lights up across Uluru. Traverse the vast outback to the hidden gem, Rainbow Valley, a significant site to the southern Arrernte people, before arriving in Alice Springs. Enjoy free time to wander around the town. The Todd Street Mall has cafés and Aboriginal art galleries to explore. This evening, immerse yourself against the backdrop of the outback at our open-air bush BBQ Celebration Dinner. Located off the beaten track in the heart of the East MacDonnell Ranges, you'll enjoy drinks as a bush balladeer sings classic Australian songs and shares stories of outback living, under the Southern Hemisphere’s Milky Way.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

Farewell from Alice Springs

Relax this morning as your journey comes to an end. You might choose to take an optional hot air balloon ride to experience the scenic landscapes of the outback before your journey comes to an end.

Darwin - Litchfield National Park - Darwin

Welcome to Darwin! This morning meet your Journey Director and board your luxury vehicle to begin your journey of discovery in the Top End. Travel across the Finniss River to Litchfield National Park. You'll visit tumbling Florence Falls and you'll also enjoy a swim to cool off at Wangi Falls, surrounded by tropical monsoon rainforest and hear about its importance in Aboriginal custom before stopping for lunch. After lunch you will travel back to Darwin where you will enjoy a waterfront welcome dinner with wine.

Hotel: Hilton Darwin

Kakadu

Get ready for a cross-country journey into the magnificent Kakadu National Park. Keep your eyes open for Crocodiles as you cross the South Alligator River, Brolgas, Magpie Geese and Jabiru as you traverse along the long grasses of the marshes and wetlands. Kakadu really is a diverse UNESCO world heritage site. After lunch the famous Yellow Waters Billabong boat cruise will be a highlight of your journey. You will see a myriad of different bird species, spot estuarine crocodiles and simply enjoy the stunning billabong and floodplains system. This afternoon check into the renowned Crocodile Hotel in the town of Jabiru and enjoy the wonderful Aboriginal Art Gallery within the hotel before getting to know your fellow travellers over dinner with wine. 

Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Kakadu - Nitmiluk National Park - Katherine

This morning there’s a chance to take to the air an optional scenic flight over Kakadu. One of the best ways to experience the enormity of this wonderful National Park as well as the diversity from waterfalls and billabongs to flood plains and wildlife. Then you’ll visit Nourlangie to see its fascinating Aboriginal rock art for yourself. You’ll also hear first-hand from your Journey Director a detailed interpretation of the art and the rich Aboriginal culture as you explore the various outdoor ‘galleries' with art that dates back some 20,000 years. You will continue driving through the ancient lands of Kakadu National Park through to the town of Katherine and further on to Nitmiluk National Park. Indulge in five-star luxury at Cicada Lodge, a stunning architect designed eco-lodge surrounded by nature, where each room has a private balcony that opens to the glories of Nitmiluk National Park. Cool off from the heat of the day while enjoy a swim in the pool as the sunsets before a beautiful dinner.  

Hotel: Cicada Lodge, 2 Nights

Katherine

Today immerse yourself as you meet Manual Pamkal who will welcome you with a traditional welcoming tune on the didgeridoo. Manual was born and raised immersed in his rich traditional culture. He’ll share with you stories of growing up in the bush and teach you the fine art of rarrk painting using a special brush from a reed called Julk. Call up the inner artist within you and paint your own masterpiece to take home! You will enjoy lunch back on the deck of Cicada Lodge overlooking this natural surrounding before having a free afternoon to relax. This evening indulge on a special sunset dinner cruise along Katherine River. You’ll marvel at the gorges while you spot wildlife and learn about the history and culture of the local Jawoyn people. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance during the candle-lit three course dinner cook on board your boat.

Farewell from Darwin

Enjoy a lay in or get up early to enjoy the National Park completely immersed in the mystical morning light. Travel north along the Stuart Highway stopping at the gorgeous  Edith Falls the way for a relaxing dip and some lunch. Continue to Adelaide River War Cemetery. During WWII, Adelaide River was the headquarters to a large military base and a large cemetery was created especially for those who gave their lives in the service and defence of their country. Your Inspiring Journey concludes on arrival in Darwin.

Welcome to Palm Cove

Welcome to Tropical North Queensland! This afternoon join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception followed by a Welcome Dinner at Reef House Restaurant. Nestled under Melaleuca trees with views across the Coral Sea, you will dine on modern Australian cuisine using fresh North Queensland produce.

Hotel: The Reef House, 3 Nights

Daintree & Indigenous Culture

Today will be an incredible day to remember. Join your Indigenous Guide on an exclusive journey to discover the Daintree and gain rich insight into the deep relationship the local Kuku Yalanji people have with their land. Learn about cultural traditions, bush foods and traditional medicine; experience traditional hunting techniques, have a go at spear throwing and if you are lucky, see a mud crab. Enjoy lunch in the quaint township of Daintree Village, a community perched on the banks of the Daintree River. Enjoy the opportunity to relax and dine at your leisure this evening.

Cairns - Included Choice, Reef or Rainforest

Today you can explore tropical Cairns in your own style with an Included Choice option. Choose to board a Quicksilver wave piercing catamaran for your cruise to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. The friendly professional crew will take you to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance. Choose to snorkel (equipment provided) or you can stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-submersible. A hot and cold tropical buffet is served before you return to Palm Cove this afternoon. If breathtaking rainforest views and exploring quaint a village calls to you, select a day in Kuranda on the Skyrail & Scenic Rail. Nestled in the mountaintop rainforest west of Cairns, is the charming “Village in the Rainforest” Kuranda. Your day begins with the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail journey. Sit back, relax and take in the spectacular views as you wind your way up to quaint village of Kuranda. There is plenty of time to explore, including the Heritage Markets which operate daily. Then it’s time to board Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for your return journey, gliding silently over and through the rainforest, enjoying beautiful views along the way.

Cairns - Uluru

Today we fly from Cairns to the heart of the Red Centre, Uluru. This afternoon you’re off to the domes of Kata Tjuta where you’ll join your Travel Director for a guided-walk through Walpa Gorge. The large, steep dome-like formations of Kata Tjuta are amazing to walk through and have great cultural significance for the Aṉangu people. Later this afternoon you will witness a spectacular Uluru sunset. Enjoy nibbles and sparkling wine while you watch Uluru change colour as the sun sets below the horizon.

Hotel: Sails in the Desert Hotel, 2 Nights

Uluru

Rise early to experience the renowned Field of Light, where 50,000 glass spheres in colours of ochre, deep violet, blue and gentle white, have been installed within sight of Uluru. Wander through the paths and then, from the dune-top, watch as the dawn creeps across the desert plain and lights up the Red Centre. After breakfast you will have the opportunity to take a walk around part of the base of Uluru and hear timeless stories, see rock art, and visit Mutitjulu Waterhole. Then it’s off to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre for an insight into the history of the local Anangu people. This evening a Local Dining Experience at the award-winning Sounds of Silence Dinner under the sparkling outback sky will leave you delighted.

Uluru - Kings Canyon

This morning experience the changing colours and magic of the sunrise over Uluru before heading back to the hotel for breakfast. From here you will travel towards Kings Canyon. Your first stop is Curtin Springs which has been home to the Severin family since 1956 when Peter Severin arrived with his young wife Dawn, their toddler son Ashley and 1,500 head of cattle! Sit down to a BBQ lunch and meet one of the locals as you hear about the Severin family and the logistics of running a million acre cattle property. After lunch the journey continues to Kings Canyon Resort.  Later that evening you will enjoy a delicious dinner at Carmichael's Restaurant.

Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort

Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Perfect for observing the changing colours of the landscape, today you're off on a sunrise 6km Rim Walk exploration of the spectacular Kings Canyon. As you venture around the rim, highlights include the domed ‘Lost City’, and the luscious ‘Garden of Eden’. If you’d prefer a more relaxed walk you can opt for a walk along the Creek Bed. Afterwards we’re travelling through more of the outback past the West MacDonnell Ranges and then continue to Alice Springs. This evening be entertained with stories of the outback as you enjoy a Bush BBQ dinner under the stars.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

Alice Springs - Sydney

This morning you can explore Alice Spring in your own style with an Included Choice option. Choose to visit the School of the Air to learn about outback schooling and the technology used to teach children in these remote areas. Or you may wish to visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service to learn about how this organisation is saving lives in the outback. Later you will take your flight to Sydney where you will have a free evening to explore the vibrant city.

Hotel: The Langham Hotel Sydney

Sydney Included Choice - Hunter Valley

Enjoy a Sydney sightseeing tour including a stroll along the coastal walk for incredible views over the Pacific Ocean and wild coastal cliffs. Mid morning offers you an Included Choice activity so you can see more of the Harbour City. Escape to a world long ago, before colonial settlement and be touched by the most ancient human culture on earth. Join an Aboriginal guide for a 90-minute leisurely walkabout through the Rocks District, hear dreamtime stories passed down from Elders and discover how Aboriginal people existed by the harbour. For a different pace, say ‘cheers’ to your local guide from Dave’s Tours on a historic walking tour of some of Sydney’s oldest pubs. Tread in the footsteps of the convicts, larrikin gangs & locals of the past as you share a drink in four of Sydney's oldest pubs. Between watering holes, your guide will take you through the alleys & cobbled streets of the Rocks as they share the gossip, shouts, and stories of Australia's first European settlement. This afternoon, depart Sydney for the Hunter Valley wine region.

Hotel: voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, 2 Nights

Hunter Valley

Spend the day exploring the amazing Hunter Valley Wine Region. It includes good food, great wine and beautiful scenery. Indulge in exclusive private wine tastings at boutique vineyards and sit down to an exceptional tasting lunch. There will be time to explore cellar doors, a cheese shop, chocolatier, and more before spending the evening at leisure. You may like to relax on your balcony with a good book and bottle of wine or treat yourself to one of the dining options.

Hunter Valley - Sydney

Return to Sydney in time to cruise magical Sydney Harbour. Cruise aroundthe glistening harbour while you savour a delicious lunch with a strong focuson local produce and wines. Relax on the spacious deck as you sail past the harbour’s iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge andsmall secluded coves surrounded by multi-million-dollar waterfront homes. This evening is free for you to explore and discover one of Sydney’s local restaurants.

Hotel: The Langham Hotel Sydney, 2 Nights

Sydney at Leisure

Wake up to a day at leisure in the harbour city of Sydney. There are so many sights to experience. You may choose to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, take the ferry to Manly Beach, or explore some of the lesser-known interesting pockets of Sydney to see how the locals live. Late afternoon join a VIP guided tour of the Sydney Opera House before a Celebration Dinner at Peter Gilmore’s Bennelong restaurant under the sails of the Opera House itself, the perfect location for our last meal together. 

Farewell from Sydney

Your Inspiring Journey concludes after breakfast when you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Welcome to Adelaide

At once sophisticated and cultured, yet cool and casual, Adelaide attracts foodies, historians, art aficionados and sports fanatics in equal measure. Multicultural restaurants abound, as do pretty sandstone churches. Explore them at your leisure, before meeting a local gourmand to tour the city’s legendary Central Market. This place has been selling cheese, green ant gin, flowers and artisan bread for 140-plus years. It’s tempting to overindulge – save space for your Welcome Reception & Dinner.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Adelaide

Adelaide - Flinders Ranges

One of Australia’s oldest wine regions, the Clare Valley is all wide, open skies, rounded hills, rippling grape vines and native forest. It’s a postcard-perfect setting for historic Knappstein Enterprise Winery, producing sweet-scented rieslings and mineral-rich reds. The route north lands you at Hawker – it may be the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, but there are plenty of reasons to linger, including well-preserved heritage buildings and the Jeff Morgan Gallery. Jeff’s enormous panoramas capture the SA outback in a frame; he also collects rocks, model cars and random memorabilia. The best is still to come, as you arrive at Wilpena Pound Resort in the shadows of a staggering natural amphitheatre.

Hotel: Wilpena Pound Resort

Flinders Ranges - Port Augusta

The soaring river red gums that envelop the restored Hills Homestead will leave you lost for words; equally mesmerising is the display inside the property, revealing the hardships of early settlers in this part of the state. You get here on a leisurely walk along Wilpena Creek and continue to Wangarra Hill Lookout for seemingly endless views over the pound’s rippling peaks and sweeping curves. The drama is echoed as you climb to Pichi Richi Pass – spare a thought for the workers who built the train line here in the 1870s, through deep rock that provides a snapshot of Flinders Ranges geology. Ease into Port Augusta, where more stories of yesteryear await at Wadlata Outback Centre.

Hotel: Majestic Oasis Apartments

Port Augusta - Coober Pedy

With Port Augusta in the rear-view mirror, your journey continues into space. Well, sort of. The main attraction in Woomera is a former rocket-testing site, today stocked with rockets and missiles tested over the past 60 years. Speaking of space, you may will think you’ve landed on the moon as you travel through sun-baked country to isolated Coober Pedy, known as ‘the opal capital of the world’. Things get deep as you travel underground with a local to see how these gleaming gems are mined, and visit the town’s head-scratching subterranean facilities, from churches to schools and hotels.

Hotel: Desert Cave Hotel

Coober Pedy - Uluru

After a hearty breakfast, prepare to stay goodbye to South Australia as you cross the border into the Northern Territory and arrive at Australia’s spiritual heart, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – it has World Heritage status for a reason. Under the gaze of the world’s mightiest monolith, toast the end of the day with a glass of bubbles and a camera full of sunset photos, the countryside transforming from ochre and orange to bruised purples and maroon with every ‘click’ of your camera.

Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel, 2 Nights

Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta

Pre-dawn wake-up calls are worth it when you get to see an equally dazzling Red Centre colour transformation at sunrise. Marvel at the majesty of ‘the Rock’ as you circumnavigate its 11-kilometre base or join a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. This living cultural landscape takes you back to the beginning of time. Small wonder it’s a sacred place for eons of Anangu people. Over the millennia, they left behind rock art and snacked on native plants, with bush plums, tomatoes and figs, all still in abundance. More soul-salving landscapes spread before you at Kata Tjuta, cool relief found as you walk amid its domes to Walpa Gorge. If your SD card isn’t full of sunset photos yet, it will be after tonight’s dazzling display.

Uluru - Kings Canyon

Another Uluru sunrise excursion awaits (should you wish), with this morning’s optional tour taking you to artist Bruce Munro’s Uluru Field of Light – a blanket of 50,000 glowing bulbs. What a way to start the day. There are so many record-breaking rock attractions in this part of the country that you may not have heard of Attila (Mt. Conner) before – but once you’ve glimpsed the table-like formation, you certainly won’t forget it. Stretch your legs again at Kings Creek Station, the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia. All your senses will be activated on the Kings Canyon rim walk, 440-million years in the making and forged through layers of sandstone and hard shale creating soaring domes and plateaus that plummet to an oasis of natural rock pools. It’s hard to gauge the immensity when you’re wandering, until you reach a lookout that is… 

Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort

Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Things are bigger in the NT outback, from the cattle stations the size of a small country to the MacDonnell Ranges, which stretch like a dinosaur spine toward the character-filled town of Alice Springs. Aside from its plethora of Aboriginal galleries and art stores, Alice makes Australian history for her 1872 Telegraph Station, one of 12 along the Overland Telegraph Line that traverses a whopping 3,200 kilometres between Adelaide and Darwin. Glimpse it up close, then from afar as you ascend Anzac Hill for panoramic views that inspired many of those paintings in Alice’s galleries.

Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs, 2 Nights

Alice Springs

Aboriginal culture is strong in Alice Springs, as you’ll fast find on a tour revealing the history of the Arrernte people. The other thing that’s strong is community spirit – it has to be when there are so few people scattered over such a vast area of land. Enter the Royal Flying Doctor Service, its base a museum of sorts that goes behind the scenes of the life-saving health services it delivers to people living in remote realms. One of the benefits of being this far-flung is the lack of light pollution. And at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, this equates to epic stargazing. Your BBQ dinner here with the Falzon family is enlightening and uplifting – think stories of self-sufficient living, astronomy and even a tune or two on the didgeridoo. 

Alice Springs - Tennant Creek

1.3 million square kilometres – that’s the eye-watering distance the School of Air’s lessons are broadcast across daily. Watch a live session with kids who would otherwise have no access to public education. It doesn’t matter how knowledgeable you are, you might just believe in aliens when you pass Wycliffe Well, the self-proclaimed ‘UFO capital’ of Australia. But it’s the devil that awaits (well, his marbles) at Karlu Karlu, where precariously balanced boulders appear to have been superglued together. The most prized rock found in this part of the world is, however, gold, which is why your base for the night, Tennant Creek, exists.

Hotel: Bluestone Motor Inn

Tennant Creek - Katherine

Since the 1930s, the time-tested Daly Waters Historic Pub has been dishing up schnitzel's, barramundi burgers and hearty steaks. The walls here are lined with treasures that passers-by leave behind, from bras to boots. What can you contribute over lunch? ‘Land of the Never Never’ awaits at Mataranka. Yes, you can visit a replica of the Elsey Homestead, used in the filming of 1982 Aussie drama We of the Never Never, an autobiographical flick about life in the outback. Or wander palm-lined walkways to take a dip in the region’s steamy thermal springs – the ultimate antidote to weary limbs before arriving in Katherine.             
 

Hotel: Contour Hotel Katherine

Katherine - Kakadu

The Jawoyn have called Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge home for millennia. You can feel their presence while cruising this mighty waterway that’s home to more than a few resident crocs. This is not the last time these scaly creatures will be in your company – they’ll make another appearance on your Kakadu tour, when you jump in yet another boat for a Yellow Water Billabong cruise. You don’t need binoculars to spot the sea eagles, brolgas and kingfishers that colour this part of the Top End; they’re everywhere you look.             

Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Kakadu - Darwin

Decisions, decisions: optional morning flight over Kakadu and Arnhem Land, or a sleep in. We vote for the former, to get some perspective before you venture toward Ubirr and its astounding ancient Aboriginal rock art. Scamper to the top of the rocky outcrop for seemingly endless views over floodplains backdropped by sheer escarpments. If it looks familiar, that’s because it played a starring role in 1986 Aussie film, Crocodile Dundee. The night is yours in steamy Darwin, where the characters are as large as the shadows cast at sunset. First stop: the Mindil Beach Sunset Market for dinner with your feet in the sand.

Hotel: Garden Inn Darwin, 2 Nights

Litchfield National Park

Nature rules today, your explorations into Litchfield National Park revealing magnetic termite mounds standing up to two metres tall. And then there are the waterfalls: Florence Falls, for its dreamy cascades among monsoon forest; and Wangi Falls, where you can cool off in the crystal-clear waterhole before heading back to Darwin. See the NT capital in a new light when you venture out on a Darwin Harbour Cruise, your sparkling wine glass full to toast your last evening on this epic adventure.  

Farewell from Darwin

Time to bid adieu and head home to sort through all those photos. Perhaps even better – and longer lasting – are the memories; two weeks of wild outback adventures.

Welcome to Uluru

Today is one of colours. The ochre soil spiked with cycads as your plane comes into land. The endless blue sky, from horizon to infinity. The russet hues of Uluru, that ‘Rock’ that appears on just about every Australian postcard… And that’s all before enchanting hour. Come sunset, the landscape changes with every click of your camera. If you can stop snapping, have a glass of bubbles and some nibbles with your fellow adventurers. They’ll be besties by the time this trip is over. Or maybe even by this time tomorrow…

Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel, 2 Nights

Uluru Sunrise - Kata Tjuta

If you’re looking for a reason to roll out of bed before dawn, make it an Uluru sunrise. We’re not saying it’s better, than last night’s sunset. But being up with the birds certainly has its benefits. Like being cool when you circumnavigate the base of Uluru, the world’s biggest monolith. A circumnavigation is 11 kilometres (that’s your step-count sorted for the day) if you’re up for it. Or join a shorter guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, a sacred spot decorated with millennia-old Aboriginal rock paintings. Dive even deeper into First Nations traditions at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre – you won’t be able to resist a purchase, opening your wallet sweetened by the fact that you’re supporting local Aboriginal communities. Then wander through Kata Tjuta’s Jurassic domed rock formations into Walpa Gorge, a natural creek that carves its way between the two tallest Kata Tjuta domes. More bubbles to serenade the day’s end? We’re one step ahead of you…

Uluru - Kings Canyon

The only other reason to get up before dawn is to glimpse the Uluru Field of Light, a dazzling installation by British artist Bruce Munro that sees 50,000 stem-like globes blanket the Uluru soil. It’s optional – we won’t judge you for sleeping in, steeling yourself for today’s adventures. But if you’ve come this far, it would be a shame to opt for shut-eye over eye-popping. Speaking of which, did you know Australia has the largest population of wild camels in the world, and Kings Creek Station, your next stop at lunchtime, is the largest exporter of these doe-eyed creatures? Next stop is Kings Canyon, part of the immense Watarrka National Park. Walk off those carbs and enjoy perspective-resetting views over the Red Centre.

Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort

Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Cattle stations are the size of small nations in the Northern Territory outback, as you’ll discover on your journey toward Alice Springs. The other ‘big’ thing in these parts is the MacDonnell Ranges, the stark mountain massif undulating across the red earth like a jagged dinosaur’s (or perhaps serpent’s?) spine. Back in 1872, Alice Springs was a hive of activity, as a Telegraph Station – one of 12 – was built here to connect Adelaide and Darwin as part of the Overland Telegraph Line. Sweat and tears went into the gargantuan, country-spanning project, as you’ll discover browsing the grounds now an intimate museum. If you thought you were getting out of a sunset, think again – panoramas from Alice’s Anzac Hill steal the scene. Are you keeping count? 

Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs, 2 Nights

Alice Springs

In remote parts of Australia, community is everything, whether to ensure stories of the Arrernte people are not forgotten (you’ll learn all about them today), or to help those who, well, need urgent help. The passionate Royal Flying Doctor Service health workers commute hundreds of kilometres every day to provide aid to those living in far-flung corners of Australia. Their stories are at once uplifting and inspiring. End your day on a high at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, where the Falzon family host a BBQ Be My Guest dinner under the stars. This is a lesson in off-the-grid, sustainable living, with a little boomerang throwing on the side. Let it inspire you to follow suit back at home.

Alice Springs - Tennant Creek

The whole of Peru covers 1.3 million square kilometers – the same size playing field that the School of the Air broadcasts daily classes to. Watch a live session with kids in some of Australia’s most remote reaches, providing them with educational tools that would otherwise be unavailable. What’s not on the curriculum? Aliens, probably, although you will learn all about them passing through Wycliffe Well, known as Australia’s ‘UFO capital’. We can understand why they would want to call this pocket of the country home. It’s beautiful in a hypnotically mesmerising way. Undeniably otherworldly are the precariously balanced boulders that characterize Karlu Karlu (the Devils Marbles) and the landscapes surrounding gold-rich Tennant Creek.

Hotel: Bluestone Motor Inn

Tennant Creek - Katherine

When you’re not working hard in the Australian outback, you’re having a lot of fun. Case in point the Daly Waters Historic Pub, where the food – schnitzels, burgers – comes second to the atmosphere. Follow the lead of those here before you and leave a memento to add interest the walls; since the 1980s, visitors have been redecorating with everything from bras to boots. If you were a fan of 1982 Australian TV drama We of the Never Never – an autobiographical film about Jeannie Gunn’s life in the outback – you’ll recognise your next destination without pause: the (replica) Elsey Homestead in Mataranka. Explore the grounds, or soak in the palm-shrouded thermal springs. We know what we’re doing…

Hotel: Contour Hotel Katherine

Katherine - Kakadu

Cruising around Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge in the morning is a humbling experience. You can almost feel the spirits yawning as they created this landscape on Jawoyn land, part of Nitmiluk National Park. A sprinkling of crocs, a flutter of rare birds, the ripple of the lagoon. It takes your breath away. More wildlife lurks in Kakadu’s Yellow Water Billabong, which is a mecca for sea eagles, brolgas and little kingfishers – and yet more crocs in the muddy shallows. This Kakadu tour and Yellow Water cruise will max out your camera’s memory card, so be prepared and come with a spare.  

Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Kakadu - Darwin

The best way to grasp the immensity of Kakadu and Arnhem Land? From the air, should you wish to take an optional tour. You won’t regret it – perspective is always enlightening. Speaking of which, Ubirr’s Aboriginal rock art dates back an eye-watering 20,000+ years. Your guide knows all the stories behind the murals you see, revealing Aboriginal Dreamtime stories passed down through generations. If this part of the Northern Territory looks familiar, that’s because it starred in classic Aussie rom-com, Crocodile Dundee. This part of Australia was clearly made for film-sets. Get your Darwin bearings on a quick city tour, then explore at your leisure – we want to give you as much time as possible to enjoy dinner at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market.

Hotel: Garden Inn Darwin, 2 Nights

Litchfield National Park

Think of today as dessert, one that comes with a cherry on top – the sweet finale to a decadent 10-day degustation. Travel deep into Litchfield National Park, pocked with 100-year-old, two-metre-high magnetic termite mounts. We’re not sticking around though – Florence and Wangi falls await. Change into your swimming costume and take a dip in the gem-like waterholes for cool respite. Darwin can get steamy, but you’ll have wind in your sails as you cruise the harbour at sunset, enjoying one last toast to the NT. Cheers to that! 

Farewell from Darwin

‘Ma Muk’ (‘See you later’), as the Larrakia people would say. This Dreamtime adventure is over for now, but we’re positive your memories will last forever.
 

Welcome to Hobart

Welcome to Australia’s island state, home to the Tassie Devil and the world’s cleanest air! This morning you’ll meet your Journey Director and fellow travellers before taking a walking tour of the historic Hobart docks, Salamanca Place. Connect with the local artists as you explore the many galleries and shops hidden in the old sandstone warehouses. Take in the sights, smells and sounds of the vibrant Salamanca Markets as you wander past hundreds of stalls overflowing with local produce, crafts, jewellery, freshly baked goods and artisanal cider.  Working up a hunger, our next stop is lunch on the docks overlooking the majestic Derwent River. Enjoy a three-course dining experience which will give you a scrumptious taste of what’s to come and prepare you for your afternoon visit to Australia’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), located within the grounds of stunning Moorilla Winery.  Take a self-guided tour and immerse yourself in what is described by its owner as a “subversive adult Disneyland” before enjoying a relaxing ferry ride back to Hobart for a free evening at leisure.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hobart, 2 Nights

Dewent Valley

Every Sunday morning Farm Gate Market transforms an inner-city street into a bustling farmers' market. Situated just a block from your hotel, you’ll have the chance to meet the makers and growers as you wander through an ever-changing array of fresh, local produce that Tasmania has become renowned for. Later, head up into the Derwent Valley, a major hop growing region where you’ll see Oast Houses used for drying hops for beer making, scattered throughout this picturesque valley. Here you’ll meet owners Rod and Severine who will show you around their veggie garden, housed in an old asylum’s exercise yard, before enjoying a delicious three-course paddock to plate dining experience at their restaurant, the Agrarian Kitchen.  Bellies full, take a wander around the historic Salmon Ponds which also once housed the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere.  Finish off your visit to the Derwent Valley with a cider tasting before returning to Hobart for a free evening to explore at leisure.

East Coast and Maria Island

After breakfast, you’ll journey north to Triabunna where you’ll board a ferry across to Maria Island. Rich in indigenous and European history, abundant in wildlife, and boasting spectacular views and remarkable geological features, this entire island is a National Park. Once on shore, explore the convict-built Darlington township, take a walk to the Fossil Cliffs or Painted Cliffs, hire a bike, or simply relax and recharge by the waterside with your packed lunch full of local goodies. You’ll be in good company with an abundance of wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, possums and even Tasmanian devils who all call the island home. This evening, enjoy locally harvested scallops and oysters, or perhaps a succulent Cape Grim Scotch fillet from the state’s north west is more to your taste.

Hotel: Eastcoaster Tasmania

East Coast - Freycinet National Park

Today your adventure begins with a wine tasting at Boomer Creek, a lovely family run, boutique style winery sitting high up in the hills with views to die for! Heading north your next stop is at the region’s oldest vineyard. Here you’ll meet the makers whilst you indulge in a lunch platter and try some of Tassie’s finest wines in their old barn. It’s then onto the magnificent Freycinet National Park where you may choose to hike the 90-minute round-trip up to the lookout to experience panoramic views of the world-famous Wineglass Bay. For those seeking a slightly slower pace, take a guided walk to the lookout at Cape Tourville that affords you spectacular views across the ocean and golden beaches hidden between rugged rocky outcrops. Your afternoon is at leisure as you check into your accommodation at Freycinet Lodge. Take a walk along the beach before your BBQ dinner, or if you prefer, just sit back on the balcony, and watch the sun go down with a cocktail in your hand.

Hotel: Freycinet Lodge

Freycinet National Park - Launceston

This morning after a light breakfast, journey north travelling through the quaint fishing villages of Bicheno and St Helens before arriving at the glorious Bay of Fires, famous for its crystal-clear waters, secluded, white sandy beaches and orange lichen-covered granite boulders. Explore the Big Lagoon before heading to the southern end, where you’ll discover the Gulch at picturesque Binalong Bay. Here you can sit on the rocks and watch the world pass you by as you indulge in some of the best freshly shucked oysters that Tassie has to offer. From here you’ll leave the east coast and head west, stopping off at Pyengana Dairy Farm Gate to see the cheese makers at work. Take a tour of the property before enjoying a tasting of the local produce as well as a gourmet lunch platter. On route to Launceston, the capital of the north, you’ll stop at the Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees, 25 sculpted statues depicting local soldiers who lost their lives in World War One. On arrival into Launceston, your Journey Director will take you on a circuit of this vibrant hub, known for its food and wine, culture and nature, before checking into your hotel and enjoying a night at leisure.

Hotel: Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston, 2 Nights

Launceston & Surrounds

Today, enjoy a full day paddock, plate and pantry tour where you will be immersed in all the very best produce that this region has to offer. Visit the home of hazelnuts and try some saucy treats at the Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Company in historic Evandale. It’s then onto 41 Degrees South Salmon Farm where you’ll taste what is arguably the best hot smoked salmon in Tasmania before stopping at Deloraine for a wander and a bite to eat. This afternoon you’ll take a tour of the Western Tiers Distillery and learn how the pristine water sourced from the Highland Lakes and botanicals found from the majestic mountain ranges close by, makes this the perfect spot to produce spirits. Relax and taste some of their fine poitin (Irish spirit), vodkas and gins. Heading back to your hotel, you’ll enjoy a special ‘Feed Me’ 3 course Farewell Dinner and Drinks with your Journey Director and fellow travellers..

Farewell from Launceston

Exchange phone numbers with your new friends as your inspiring Tasmanian journey concludes. After a relaxed breakfast, private transfer vehicles will deliver you to the airport for your onward flights, or your Journey Director will assist you with any Optional Tours you may have booked.

Welcome to Darwin

Darwin is the kind of place that excites all your senses. It’s always steamy, which means you have a constant glow. The aroma of tropical fruits wafts from markets. The horizons are wide and sunsets blazing. And the locals… Well, they’re as colourful as your outlook. You’ll meet some of them on a Darwin city tour taking in sights and attractions that tell stories of the NT capital’s unexpected history. As the day begins to disappear, follow the lead of locals to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Your Travel Director will give you the lowdown, highlighting the eclectic range of cuisine on offer – expect everything from Greek to Japanese. What a tasty start to your getaway.

Hotel: Travelodge Darwin Resort

Darwin - Katherine

The ancient landscapes of Litchfield National Park are shaped by water, as you’ll fast discover when exploring this immense protected wilderness on a Litchfield tour. There are lakes and rivers, waterfalls and waterholes. Get set to visit Florence Falls, then take a dip in the gin-clear pool of Wangi Falls, this dreamy setting enveloped by monsoon forest. The landscape is also shaped by termites. The national park is pocked with enormous termite mounds, which are architectural feats complete with tunnels and nursery chambers. Small creatures with a big vision.  

Hotel: Contour Hotel Katherine, 2 Nights

Nitmuluk (Katherine) Gorge

Katherine is a little bit tropical, a little bit outback, and a whole lot gorgeous. The region’s main attraction is its gaping Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, which carves the countryside in spectacular form. Sit back on your boat and enjoy a cruise through this ancient landscape, home to the Jawoyn people for millennia. You’ll learn about First Nations culture with an Jawoyn guide, and will tempt your tastebuds with some bush tucker. Support the community by picking up paintings by Jawoyn artists.
    

Katherine - Kakadu

Today is your chance to reset your body’s natural rhythms with a morning dip in Edith Falls – because days are better when you begin them with your head under water. (Please note that swimming at Edith Falls is seasonal and opening is controlled by National Parks) This series of cascades in Nitmiluk National Park will set your pulse racing. Before venturing deep into Kakadu, you’re poised for refreshments with a short stopover in the film-set-like town of Pine Creek, where buildings date back to the heady gold rush days. In Kakadu, you’ll take a guided walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie).
 

Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, 2 Nights

Kakadu National Park

If you want a different perspective, sign up for an optional scenic flight over the national park, revealing just how wide, wild and wonderful this part of the world really is. Australia is home to some of the oldest art in the world, and much of it decorates rock walls at Ubirr – this jaw-dropping site protects Aboriginal rock paintings and carvings dating back more than 20,000 years. If you thought that was impressive, wait till you see the view over Kakadu from the top of the escarpment. This afternoon, there’s nothing between you and nature, the dramatic escarpments, waterholes and abundant wildlife of Kakadu looming large. Speaking of large, there are saltwater crocs to spot while you drift away on a Yellow Water Billabong cruise. Your local guide will share the secrets of these ancient waterways. Top off your holiday sharing a Farewell Dinner with your Travel Director and travel mates.  

Farewell from Darwin

Following your Kakadu tour, this is your last chance to spot enormous ‘salties’ lurking in river crossings you pass by. You won’t see them at Fogg Dam, but what you will witness is a cacophony of birds. This really is a twitchers paradise. A fitting (and slightly noisy) end to this epic wilderness journey.  

Welcome to Christchurch

On arrival at Christchurch Airport you'll be driven by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Perhaps visit the Christchurch Botanical Garden or take a ride on the Christchurch Tram. In the evening meet your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception.

Hotel: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch

Christchurch - Tranz Alpine - Franz Josef

It's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through to the Southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast, to learn about the importance of Pounamu, better known as jade or greenstone. Later we continue to Franz Josef. Your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. This evening, why not enjoy Franz Josef's local geothermal hot pools or perhaps a massage.

Hotel: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, 2 Nights

Franz Josef Glacier (Relaxed Start)

After a relaxed start we explore this area, where a local guide explains the history behind the mighty Franz Josef Glacier.

Franz Josef - Queenstown

This morning it’s time for an adventure as we journey down the Haast River in a purpose built, fully enclosed river jet boat. After a lunch stop at Makarora then travel on to Arrowtown where there is time to explore this historic gold-mining village on the Arrow River.  Continue to Queenstown for an orientation tour. Tonight, dinner is included at your hotel.

Hotel: Hotel St Moritz Queenstown, 3 Nights

Queenstown at Leisure

Enjoy Queenstown your way! Perhaps join a wine tour and taste some of Central Otago’s world-renowned Pinot Noir or view The Lord of the Rings film locations on a scenic tour of Queenstown and Glenorchy.  Tonight, you can dine at one of the local restaurants along the waterfront in town or simply relax at your hotel. 

Queenstown at Leisure

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station, take a jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River.  Or simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafés and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views. Tonight, enjoy a highlight dinner at one of Queenstown’s exclusive restaurants.

Queenstown - Te Anau - Milford Sound

Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of the South Island’s largest lake. Later you’ll travel through the rainforest of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site of Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges onto the amazing Mirror Lake before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel.  Tonight, stay at the magical Milford Sound Lodge, with views of the Cleddau Valley.

Hotel: Milford Sound Lodge, 2 Nights

Milford Track Walk & Milford Sound Cruise

Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound.  This morning, explore a section of the famous Milford Track on an easy going half day guided walk.  This place is steeped in rich history and stories, the flora and fauna are unique and special.  This afternoon aboard the Southern Discoveries vessel sit back and relax as a specialist nature guide introduces you to the natural wonders of Milford Sound often called the ‘eighth natural wonder of the world’.

Milford Sound - Gore - Dunedin

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago. Travel through Te Anau known for its beautiful lake and on to the country musical town of Gore for lunchtime, before arriving in Dunedin, New Zealand’s southernmost city. Enjoy dinner tonight at Parcels Restaurant at your hotel.

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin Hotel, 2 Nights

Dunedin (Relaxed Start)

Enjoy a relaxed start this morning, before taking a guided tour at Emerson’s Brewery, sample the tasty craft beer before an afternoon at leisure.  Relax or continue exploring Dunedin as you wish. Perhaps ride the historic Tairei Gorge Railway or take a wildlife cruise of the Otago Pennisula.

Dunedin - Omaru - Timaru - Christchurch

Travel up the east coast of the South Island via Oamaru and Timaru. On arrival in Christchurch embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake.

Hotel: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch

Christchurch - Kaikoura - Wellington

Travel up the rugged Pacific Ocean coast this morning to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Pass the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, then travel to pretty seaside fishing village of Picton. Later cruise Queen Charlotte Sound and cross the Cook Strait to the North Island. On arrival in Wellington embark on a city orientation tour. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Hotel: QT Wellington, 2 Nights

Wellington at Leisure

Today see Wellington your way! Perhaps visit Weta Workshop, home to the creative wizards behind ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies or learn about New Zealand history and culture on a visit to Te Papa - Museum of New Zealand. Your Journey Director can assist in booking your optional experience.

Wellington - Hawke's Bay

Continue north today, travelling through the dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawkes Bay.  Tonight, enjoy dinner with wine matching at Craggy Range Winery, one of the regions world famous wineries situated in the shadow of the spectacular Te Mata Peak.  

Hotel: Porters Boutique Hotel, 2 Nights

Napier (Relaxed Start)

Enjoy a relaxed start before we venture out to explore the Hawkes Bay region. Relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour. Your driver will provide a fascinating commentary as you are driven in style, through Art Deco Napier and surrounding areas.  You’ll learn about the earthquake that destroyed the city, hear stories of the people that led the rebuild, and discover the Art Deco style. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel. 

Hawke's Bay - Rotorua

Enjoy a leisurely start before continuing the journey to Rotorua.  This afternoon visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley where you will connect with the beating heart of the world’s youngest geothermal valley, it’s unique history and legacy.   Along the guided walk you’ll experience geothermal activity, hot springs, volcanic craters, nature and wildlife. Followed by a relaxing 45-minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana see stunning geothermal activity only accessible by boat as well as rare native birdlife.  Immerse in the stories of the Mt Tarawera volcanic eruption and the resulting dramatic landscape changes that created this amazing part of the world. 

Hotel: Pullman Rotorua, 2 Nights

Rotorua

Ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird’s eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants and the beautiful surrounds of the forest from a unique perspective. Next stop is Rainbow Springs Nature Park for a behind the scenes look at the National Kiwi Hatchery.  Tonight, visit Te Pa Tu for insights into the local rituals and traditions of this fascinating culture.  Tu Te Ra is a summer celebration of 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.  Enjoy a special three course feast with aperitif.

Rotorua - Auckland

Begin your day with a dazzling show during an exclusive five-star Eco Glow Worm experience at Caveworld Waitomo.  Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glow worms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave. Later, travel through the dairy farming district of Waikato, and onto Auckland. Tonight, Toast your trip together tonight at a Celebration Dinner.

Hotel: QT Auckland

Farewell from Auckland

Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and we transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.

Welcome to Darwin

Get to know the steamy NT capital at your own pace – you’ll fast find that the characters here are almost as colourful as the sunsets. You’ll enjoy the latter over drinks and nibbles with your Travel Director and fellow adventure-seekers. A tasty entrée to your 11-day Northern Territory tour from Darwin

Hotel: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, 2 Nights

Darwin

Today is about getting your Darwin bearings on a city tour revealing the events that have shaped the city over the decades, from wars to natural disasters. You’ll be a Darwin expert after visiting attractions like East Point Military Reserve and the Darwin Museum. The afternoon is at your leisure. If you’re at a loss for ideas, we can point you in the direction of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility, perhaps, or the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, loaded with 200+ stalls. Grab a bite and watch the day end with your feet in the sand.   

Darwin - Kakadu

Aboriginal culture is strong in this part of Australia, and its kept alive by Traditional Landowners on this morning’s tour. Dive deep into Aboriginal heritage on a family-owned experience highlighting art, music and bush tucker. Your next deep dive is into the heart of Kakadu, a World Heritage listed national park that is one of Australia’s most important living ecosystems. Today’s Kakadu tour will whet your appetite for a full day of wildlife immersion tomorrow.    

Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, 2 Nights

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is vast, spanning almost 20,000 square kilometres. The best way to gain appreciation for just how immense it really is from the air on an optional (but highly recommended) morning flight. Now that you have your bearings, take to the land to discover ancient Aboriginal rock art and cruise the wildlife-packed Yellow Water Billabong to search for enormous saltwater crocs – your eagle-eyed guide knows where to look. End your Kakadu tour on a high, watching the sun set over floodplains. 

Kakadu - Katherine

From one glorious national park to another… today’s backdrop is the end-of-Earth escarpments of Nitmiluk National Park, carved by rivers millions of years ago. Cruising through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is a humbling experience even before you know the region’s history. Small wonder freshwater crocs and all manner of birds call the cavern home. See how many sets of eyes you can see peering at you from the water’s surface.

Hotel: Contour Hotel Katherine

Katherine - Tennant Creek

If the Elsey Homestead looks familiar, that’s because it starred in the 1982 Aussie drama We of the Never Never. Today it’s better known for its Mataranka thermal hot springs. Pop on your swimsuit and have a soothing soak, the magical setting surrounded by palms. The only thing more refreshing is a cold beverage at the Daly Waters Pub, self-declared as Australia’s ‘original outback pub’. You can imagine the kind of swagger the locals bring. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark as well; a memento, perhaps, or autograph on the walls. You’ll arrive in Tennant Creek with a new appreciation for country life.

Hotel: Bluestone Motor Inn

Tennant Creek - Alice Springs

The Stuart Highway is long (2,700 kilometres), very straight and very flat. Which makes the appearance of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) on the horizon all the more dramatic. These massive granite boulders pock the countryside. But they’re not just a pretty sight – they’re a sacred place for the Aboriginal community, created by the fossilised eggs of the Rainbow Serpent. Get the lay of the land atop Alice Springs’ Anzac Hill. From this vantage, the East and West MacDonnell Ranges appear to stretch to the horizon.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, 2 Nights

Alice Springs

Sleep in, take to the skies in a hot-air balloon as the desert awakens, explore the West Macs on a guided tour… this morning is yours to spend as you choose. Save some energy for this afternoon’s Alice Springs tour and visit to the historic Telegraph Station – the reason the town was formed, to connect the country and allow smooth communication. It’s still not always easy to communicate in the outback, with many children getting an education through remote learning. Discover how the School of the Air operates, ensure that all kids have access to information and skills needed in later life.

Alice Springs - Uluru

From the moment you wake up until the last of day disappears, spiritual Aboriginal culture is all around on today’s Northern Territory tour. Get set to be in awe over Dreamtime stories about the creation of Uluru, the world’s largest monolith. It’s particularly pretty at sunset when the fading rays change the desert’s colour with every sip of your sparkling wine.

Hotel: Outback Hotel & Lodge, 2 Nights

Uluru

There aren’t many things worth getting up in the dark for. Sunrise over Uluru is one. It’s a magical time of day, the shifting light casting the countryside aglow. Exploring the base of ‘the Rock’ on an Uluru tour, you’ll begin to understand why this part of the country is so special to the Anangu people, who have called the region home for millennia. Go at your own pace this afternoon. We wouldn’t blame you for taking a dip in the resort pool to cool off. But if you want to see the monolith in another different light, opt to chopper around it on a scenic helicopter flight. Either way, you’ll have plenty of stories to tell over your Farewell Dinner.

Farewell from Uluru

Another reason to rise early: to catch the (optional) Field of Light art installation that blankets the desert floor. Your spirit will glow just as brightly as you bid farewell to this epic Northern Territory tour.  

Welcome to Perth

Almost two weeks of adventures lie before you, the first a tour of Perth. The Western Australian capital almost steals the street-art trophy from Melbourne, the city’s alleys and warehouses decorated with eye-popping murals and installations from local creatives. It’s also remarkably green, with 400-hectare Kings Park and Botanic Garden sitting pretty in the CBD, on a lazy bend of the serpentine Swan River. Two thirds of the grounds are reserved for native plants, but there are also seasonal wildflowers, all enveloping the Anzac Memorial. If you don’t know your fellow travellers by now, you will by the time your welcome dinner is over.     

Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Perth

Perth - Geraldton

Two wilderness highs provide a fitting start to this journey of contrasts. Venturing north, you soon reach Yanchep National Park. Here, Noongar man Derek Nannup’s Dreamtime stories tell the tale of how the land was created from an Aboriginal perspective. He’s quite the character and likes his guests to get hands-on. Think tasting native bush tucker, smelling medicinal plants, and maybe even trying to play the didgeridoo. Derek will make it look easy. It’s not…  Think the day couldn’t get any better? Think again. Within Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles create a moonscape that appears plucked from a sci-fi film, its staggering collection of natural limestone structures jutting into the sky – some are 3.5 metres high. For all their mysterious appeal, geologists tell us the spires were formed 30,000 years ago when an inland sea receded. It’s a spiritual place. Arriving in Geraldton, pay homage to sailors lost off the WA coast during WWII at the HMAS Sydney Memorial.

Hotel: Mantra Geraldton

Geraldton - Monkey Mia

While stromatolites might sound like something belonging in a cave, these ‘living fossils’ grow in the water at Hamelin Pool. Rock-like in appearance, they’re actually alive, and reveal what life might have been like 3.5-billion years ago, when there was no other complex life on Earth. Remarkably, this is the world’s most abundant colony of them. It’s just one of the natural allures of the state’s World Heritage listed Shark Bay, the largest bay in Australia with more than 1,000 kilometers of beaches. Not all of them are sandy – welcome to Shell Beach. Here, the snow-white colour comes from billions of tiny coquina bivalve shells, up to 10 metres deep and stretching for 70 kilometers. And just when you thought the outlook couldn’t get any prettier, you arrive at Monkey Mia. 

Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 Nights

Monkey Mia Free Time

Sparkling turquoise water, powdery white sand, ochre dunes – Monkey Mia knows how to dial up the drama. And then there are the wild resident dolphins, which famously swim to shore in a pod every morning to splash about in the shallows and interact with humans before dancing away to catch a few waves. It’s a hard act to follow. Our suggestions for your afternoon of leisure? Yet more dolphin spotting on an optional sunset cruise around the coast, or seeing Shark Bay as the birds do, on an optional scenic flight. Even from the sky you’ll likely spot dolphins, humpback whales, turtles, and perhaps even dugongs. Or indulge in both. The afternoon is yours.

Monkey Mia - Carnarvon

Carnarvon calls, the beacon its not-so-under-the-radar satellites. The unassuming Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum played a huge role in global history, helping to beam the 1969 moon landing to TV sets around the world. That’s just one of its claims to fame, as you’ll discover touring the gallery’s collection with a passionate guide. The experience is interactive, so budding astronauts can try on space suits and climb aboard a spacecraft simulator.  

Hotel: Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon

Carnarvon - Exmouth

You don’t need to get your hair wet to experience the sheer wonderment of Ningaloo Reef. A Coral Bay glass-bottom boat cruise jettisons you within a whisker of turtles, colourful coral and an embarrassment of fish – some 500 species have been recorded. You won’t know where to look, although your on-board naturalist will help guide your gaze. This is part of the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Coast, a popular hangout among larger-then-life migratory marine life. Like whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, which amass here between March and September every year. Before you settle into your plush Exmouth hotel, admire the curves of the coastline from Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Your gaze will hold firmly on the ocean for the next couple of days.  

Hotel: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, 2 Nights

Exmouth Free Time

Steel yourself for a few ‘pinch-me’ moments today. Opt to snorkel (with an ethical operator) over Ningaloo Reef. Time your visit right, and you could have whale sharks and humpback whales in your company. Nothing quite prepares you for the moment you glimpse these gentle giants up close, gliding gracefully through schools of fish. It’s a full day of unbridled, and unrivalled, marine immersion. We understand if you’d prefer to stay dry, and instead choose to book an optional sunset cruise or simply spend the day strolling the sand on the lookout for dolphins. The choice is yours.  

Exmouth - Karijini National Park

It’s an epic commute across the Pilbara from Exmouth to inland Karijini. But it’s oh-so worth it. If you’ve ever wanted to fall in love at first sight, it’ll happen at Karijini National Park. This is nature writ large, a place of immense gorges and deep, dark chasms; waterfalls and gem-like rock pools. This red slice of the Hamersley Range is a magnet for nature lovers, not only for the earthly delights but also the creatures that call the cliffs home. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think someone had taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. Even darkness doesn’t temper the natural drama. You’re hundreds of kilometers from the nearest town, so expect dazzling Southern Hemisphere stargazing from your safari-style tent.

Hotel: Karijini Eco Retreat, 2 Nights

Karijini National Park

It took billions of years to create the geological wonders of Karijini: the striking red escarpments and the quiet gorges all enveloped by tall gums and pocked with enormous termite mounds. You have a single day to explore, so bring your stamina and sense of adventure. You’re heading deep into the national park, which covers 630,000 hectares just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. It’s WA’s second-largest national park, and the scale can be daunting. Thankfully, you’re in the company of a guide who knows all the hidden nooks and cool waterholes just begging for a swim. Things get hot here – why not dive in? 

Karijini National Park - Port Hedland

At first glimpse of the Pilbara, you may well think you’ve been transported to Mars, the ethereal landscape almost glowing in the sun. The soil couldn’t get any redder, the skies any wider, the rock formations any more dramatic, with much of the countryside streaked with mineral deposits. People are few and far between until you reach the town of Port Hedland. There are plenty of local characters to meet over dinner at your hotel, which gets busy when musicians begin to play. Before you leave, head to a lookout to spot migrating humpback whales and snubfin dolphins cruising along the coast, season pending.

Hotel: The Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland

Port Hedland - Broome

Skirting the edge of the Great Sandy Desert, your morning outlook is flat – almost as far as the eye can see, the sand eventually giving way to mountain ranges and then multicultural Broome. The city delivers many surprises, from its eclectic restaurants and colourful Chinatown to its long pearling history – the pristine waters produce some of the most prized pearl oysters in the world, and fortune-seekers from around the world descended during the region’s ‘pearl rush’. Traditions linger today, with pearl farms and boutiques tempting you inside. It’s time to discover Broome’s other standout attraction: its sunsets. Follow locals to the sand on Cable Beach, which is so long that it can accommodate 4WDs, camel trains and foot traffic. Salute the end of your first spectacular Broome day.

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 Nights

Broome Free Time

Which direction should you choose to venture today? Head north deep into the Kimberley on an optional experience where the Horizontal Falls reveals the power of nature. Here, changing tides push an immense amount of water through two narrow chasms in a short period of time. And then – the appearance of a waterfall, tipped on its side. What does one do when faced with this rush? Tackle it in a speedboat, of course. For a different perspective, head to the skies on a scenic flight. This one’s for the record books. Alternatively, veer off to a pearl farm to witness the precision that goes into growing and harvesting these gems. Or simply enjoy Broome’s tropical climes, strolling along Cable Beach, hunting for dinosaur footprints, and browsing boutiques. The choice is yours.

Farewell from Broome

How do you pick a favourite adventure from the last 12 days? You don’t have to – let them all shine in equal measure in your memory.

Welcome to Broome

You’re about to spend the next 10 days with a group of similarly minded adventure-seekers who will likely become best friends before you even leave tonight’s dinner venue. Break the ice over a few cool drinks and a suitably dazzling Broome sunset that sinks into the Indian Ocean with a sizzle.

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 Nights

Broome Free Time

Among the most multicultural cities in Australia, Broome became a base for fortune-seekers the world over during its ‘pearl rush’. Many of them never left. The pristine waters here grow great oysters, and the resulting pearls are prized by lovers of all things that gleam. The hardest thing you have to do today is decide how to spend it. We have a few ideas. Opt to go to the source and see how pearls are painstakingly grown and harvested, perhaps. Or head north to feel the full force of nature on an optional scenic flight over (and heart-starting cruise through) the magical Horizontal Falls. Only then will you begin to grasp just how mighty the tides are here, ramming through two narrow chasms and creating a waterfall that appears to have been tipped on its side. It will take your breath away, in more ways than one – those boats move fast. We wouldn’t blame you for simply enjoying Broome’s tropical climes, strolling along 22-kilometre Cable Beach, discovering colourful Chinatown then following locals to the sand, or a beachside bar, to salute the end of a spectacular day in WA. 

Broome - Fitzroy Crossing

Things are bigger in Broome, including the footprints. Preserved for 125 million years in the reef rock at Gantheaume Point are the imprints of long-extinct dinosaurs. Remarkably, the Broome coast has become one of the most significant paleontological sites in the world. Next stop – Fitzroy Crossing, the gateway to Danggu (Geikie) Gorge. Jump aboard a boat to discover how this part of the Kimberley was formed by the Fitzroy River carving the Napier Range, leaving behind a dramatic chasm with 30-metre walls, home to a plethora of wildlife. This all happened in Devonian times, some 350 million years ago. Keep watch for all creatures great and small, from freshwater crocs to fruit bats and wallabies. Look up to see white-bellied sea eagles and rare purple-crowned fairy wrens.

Hotel: Fitzroy River Lodge

Fitzroy Crossing - Halls Creek

Begin your deep dive into First Nations culture at a Fitzroy Crossing art gallery, a thriving venue dedicated to works by Aboriginal creatives. Pick up a piece or two to support the local community. Your connection to this culture continues as you travel toward the Great Sandy Desert, on the edge of which is the town of Halls Gap. This place is small in population, but big in personality.

Hotel: Kimberley Hotel

Halls Creek - Emma Gorge

Until recently, the Argyle Diamond Mine was the world’s largest producer of rare, and dazzling, pink diamonds. While operations have ceased, you can still visit and go behind the scenes. Your First Nations guide will not only point out where the magic once happened, but also explain the Aboriginal significance of this land – the traditional Barramundi Dreaming site – to First Nations communities. Then it’s on to the Gibb River Road, the stuff road trip legends are made of. You’ll see why, your route to El Questro Wilderness Park covering a few kilometres of the epic expanse. Now exhale – your safari-style tents for the night are backdropped by the Cockburn Range, surrounded by an oasis of pandanus and palms. When darkness falls, expect a bedazzlement of stars overhead.  

Hotel: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities, 2 Nights

El Questro Wilderness Park

The best way to wake up? With the sun streaming through your tent, wildlife all around. The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River, a mecca for those who love a spot of barramundi fishing. Arriving at Chamberlain Gorge, an enormous fresh waterhole, your cruise chariot awaits. Jump aboard to feel very small indeed, your boat dwarfed by soaring 60-metre escarpments, a brilliant shade of orange in the morning sun. When it’s time to cool down, take an afternoon dip, whether in the resort pool or at a waterhole within Emma Gorge. Take your pick. The latter is a challenge to reach – you will work up a sweat hiking there. But diving in at the end is worth the effort. Be back on your patio in time for sundowners.     

Emma Gorge - Kununurra

It’s not every day that you have the privilege of glimpsing the inner workings of a rum distillery with the family that owns it. Thanks to our AAT Kings connections, we’ve organised for you to meet the makers and discover how Hoochery Distillery prepares its lip-smacking, award-winning rums and whiskys. Try a tasting paddle to get your heart started, or sit down to a slice of rum cake – morning tea sorted. Kununurra is the middle of nowhere, and only exists because of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Before it was a twinkle on the map, farming pioneers came here to establish vast cattle stations. The life of one such family is chronicled at the Durack Homestead Museum, revealing how the property was dismantled then reassembled on higher ground when much of the countryside was flooded for the dam. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. A sunset cruise here, surrounded by tens of thousands of freshwater crocs and an astounding array of birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry.

Hotel: Kununurra Country Club Resort, 2 Nights

Kununurra Free Time

How active and adventurous do you want today to be? Rise early to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beehive-like rock formations of the Bungle Bungles on an optional scenic flight over World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park. Or opt to stay grounded on a 4WD tour through the ethereal landscape. Otherwise lace up your walking shoes and wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as the ‘mini-Bungles’ for its rocky resemblance. Both destinations reveal the mind-boggling geology of this part of the world. Whatever direction you go, be sure to join the locals atop Kelly’s Knob for views over town as the sun sets.

Kununurra - Katherine

Say goodbye to WA and hello to the NT, your introduction to the state the vast pastoral lands that characterise the outback here. Locals come with plenty of country swagger, as you’ll discover when you meet the horseman and award-winning musician Tom Curtain for an afternoon of knee-slappin’ fun on a working station. Tom’s quite the entertainer, and regales visitors with songs and stories during his Katherine Outback Experience. Fun, engaging and insightful.

Hotel: Paraway Motel

Katherine - Darwin

Nature reigns supreme at Nitmiluk National Park bordering Kakadu. This is Jawoyn land, and a place where you’ll feel your spirit soar. Particularly when you’re cruising through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, your boat the only sound echoing around this enormous chasm. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. As you ease north, reminders of the impact of WWII line the banks of the Adelaide River. The headquarters of a military base once stood here, and there’s a cemetery nearby to remember those who lost their lives here. It’s a sobering sight. The balmy Darwin climate sets the pace for your city tour: relaxed. Meet locals (there are some characters), discover the city’s architecture and learn about the events that have shaped life in the Top End, from Cyclone Tracy to WWII when the Northern Territory capital was bombed. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve lived in Darwin, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market is an institution. Browse the food stalls before gathering to watch the day disappear and exchange email addresses with your new friends. 

Hotel: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Farewell from Darwin

Eleven days. Countless adventures. A bunch of new friends. And a renewed appreciation for the wild side of Australia. What a journey this has been. 

Welcome to Darwin

The capital of the Northern Territory is beguiling; its balmy tropical climes, fiery sunsets, laid-back locals and surprising attractions. Take in the sights on a tour, your guide revealing the city’s distinctive architectural style along with the events that have shaped it over the years. Did you know you can still witness damage from 1974’s Cyclone Tracy, and that the city was bombed in 1942? Prepare yourself for an exploration of Darwin's top attractions, including the botanical garden, the breathtaking views from East Point Reserve, and a dinner-with-a-view experience at a beloved waterfront restaurant favored by locals.

Hotel: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Darwin - Katherine

Your southern sojourn begins with yet more insights into the region’s historic events, expanding on yesterday’s lesson about the of WWII and its impact on the region. The Adelaide River was not only the headquarters of a large military base, but its banks now house a cemetery, the final resting place of those who lost their lives in defence of the country. It’s a sobering affair. Nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park on Jawoyn land. The history and culture of the Traditional Landowners comes into full focus as you set off on a cruise through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts its soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. There’s no time to catch your breath – you’re off to meet Tom Curtain on a vast working outback station. Tom’s quite the entertainer, and regales visitors with songs and stories during his Katherine Outback Experience. It’s not a show or a tour, but an immersive adventure. One that is real, raw, and funny at times.  

Hotel: Paraway Motel

Katherine - Kununurra

Cross from the NT into WA, where Kununurra feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. See what life was like in the region for early pioneers at the Durack Homestead Museum, which was meticulously moved and recreated before the land it formerly sat on was flooded as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. A sunset cruise here, surrounded by tens of thousands of freshwater crocs and an astounding array of birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry. The project also gave birth to Kununurra, a quirky town where life is best enjoyed in the slow lane. While the main streets are unassuming, all roads lead to some of WA’s most postcard-worthy sights, the Bungle Bungles among them.    

Hotel: Kununurra Country Club Resort, 2 Nights

Kununurra

Today is one of decisions: An optional early-morning flight over (or 4WD tour of) the beehive rock formations of the Bungle Bungles in World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park? Or a wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as the ‘mini-Bungles’ for its resemblance to its more well-known neighbour. Both experiences reveal the mind-boggling geology of this part of the world. Regardless, sunset should be enjoyed atop Kelly’s Knob. Follow the lead of locals, who hang out here on a nightly basis – because there’s no such thing as a ‘bad’ sunset. All that water in Lake Argyle is used to irrigate very healthy looking crops around Kununurra, including sunflowers, sugar cane, cotton and sandalwood.

Kununurra - Emma Gorge

The AAT Kings team has been visiting Hoochery Distillery for as long as we can remember. We ask the owners to take you behind the scenes to discover how their award-winning rums and whiskys are made. There’s time for a tasting, or sit down to a slice of delicious rum cake – your morning tea sorted. From here you’re on the epic Gibb River Road, a wild adventure that traverses 660 kilometres across the Kimberley. You’re getting a taster en route to El Questro Wilderness Park, backdropped by the rusty red Cockburn Range. Hidden among the pandanus and palms are a string of slick safari-style tents. Which means you can gaze at the stars while you drift off to a chorus of frogs and cicadas.   

Hotel: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities, 2 Nights

El Questro Wilderness Park

No alarm-clock necessary: nature wakes you here. The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River to Chamberlain Gorge, a dreamy fresh waterhole where wallabies and crocs play (not with each other). Your boat is dwarfed by the gorge’s soaring 60-metre escarpments, a brilliant shade of orange in the morning sun. Days in this part of WA can heat up. This afternoon’s remedy? A splash in the resort’s pool, perhaps, or a dip in a waterhole within Emma Gorge. The latter is a challenge to reach – you will work up a sweat hiking there. But diving in at the end is worth the effort. Be sure to be back on your patio in time for sundowners.     

Emma Gorge - Halls Creek

When the Argyle Diamond Mine was in operation, it produced more than 95% of the world’s pink diamonds. Oh, the carats that have come out of here! It stopped mining these rare (and dazzling) gems at the end of 2020, but you can still visit the immense site with an Aboriginal guide. Which means you not only go behind the scenes of operations, but also learn about the significance of the land – the traditional Barramundi Dreaming site – to First Nations communities. Your destination for the night, Halls Creek is small in population, but big in personality. Like your last destination, Aboriginal Songlines are strong, with communities living here, on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert, for millennia. European influence is more recent, thanks to a brief gold rush which revealed the potential of the land for cattle stations.  

Hotel: Kimberley Hotel

Halls Creek - Fitzroy Crossing

Continue your deep dive into First Nations culture at the Aboriginal art gallery in Fitzroy Crossing, a remote town that acts as the gateway for Danggu (Geikie) Gorge tours. This remarkable part of the Kimberley was formed by the Fitzroy River carving through part of an ancient limestone barrier reef, which snakes across the Napier Range. This all happened in Devonian times, some 350 million years ago. It’s a fertile home to everything from freshwater crocs to fruit bats and wallabies, which will gaze at you from the top of the 30-metre-high cliffs that surround. That’s not the only reason to look up – keep watch for white-bellied sea eagles and rare, purple-crowned fairy wrens.

Hotel: Fitzroy River Lodge

Fitzroy Crossing - Broome

The reason Broome was born is because of pearls – the waters here grow some of the best oysters in the world, as you’ll discover on a city tour. The ‘pearl rush’ saw fortune-seekers from around the world descend. And many never left, making Broome one of the most multicultural destinations in Australia. Today, the city is just as well known for its sizzling Indian Ocean sunsets, best enjoyed from a vantage on, or near, Cable Beach. This stretch of sand is long. So long that it can accommodate 4WDs, camels and foot-traffic. Perch here, or head to a waterside café. Order a drink, and settle in. 

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 Nights

Broome Free Time

Now that you have your bearings thanks to your Broome tour, today is yours to explore. There are many reasons to linger in town, browsing pearl boutiques, tackling some of Cable Beach’s 22 kilometers, or exploring coves where dinosaur footprints have been discovered. Or venture further afield on an optional experience to witness the full force of some of the world’s biggest tides. The Horizontal Falls is no ordinary waterfall. Here, changing tides push an immense amount of water through two narrow chasms in a short period of time. And voila – the appearance of a waterfall, tipped on its side. What does one do when faced with this rush? Take it on in a speedboat, of course. For a different perspective, head to the skies on an optional scenic flight. Or do both. 

Broome - Port Hedland

The eye-opening colours of the Pilbara region are your backdrop today – rich red earth streaked with mineral deposits. It’s sparsely populated, but you will find people in the major hub of Port Hedland. There are plenty of local characters to meet over dinner at your hotel, which gets busy when musicians begin to play. Before you leave, head to a lookout to spot migrating humpback whales and snubfin dolphins cruising along the coast, season pending. It’s a welcome entrée to your activities further south.    

Hotel: The Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland

Port Hedland - Karijini National Park

A frontier like no other, Karijini National Park is a place where gorges seem to cleave off the edge of the Earth, waterfalls tumble from escarpments and remote turquoise rock pools shimmer like precious gems. The wilderness is wilder, the colours brighter, the air clearer. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think someone had taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. Even darkness doesn’t temper the natural drama. You’re hundreds of kilometers from the nearest town, and in the absence of light pollution you can look forward to dazzling stargazing, even from bed in your safari-tent.  

Hotel: Karijini Eco Retreat, 2 Nights

Karijini National Park

Bring your stamina and your camera – today’s Karijini tour weaves deep into the national park. It took billions of years to create the geological wonders you see: the red layered cliffs, the quiet gorges, the soaring gum trees, and distinctive termite mounds. It covers a staggering 630,000 hectares just north of the Tropic of Capricorn in the Hamersley Range, making it WA’s second-largest national park. Its location also makes it steamy – if you packed your swimsuit, cooling off under waterfalls and drifting about in waterholes comes highly recommended.

Karijini National Park - Exmouth

There are a few (hundred) kilometers of Pilbara region to cover between inland Karijini and Exmouth on the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Coast. On your hypnotic journey, just imagine all the magical marine creatures you might glimpse when you dive into Ningaloo Reef – Exmouth is the gateway. This pocket of the state is also blessed with Cape Range National Park, where yet more immense gorges and waterfalls characterize the countryside. But your focus here should be firmly on the ocean, whether you’re swimming in it or cruising above it.

Hotel: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, 2 Nights

Exmouth Free Time

Depending on the time of year, Ningaloo Reef is home to both whale sharks and humpback whales. Thanks to the region’s ethically minded operators, you can now opt to snorkel with both. There’s nothing quite as humbling as spotting these enormous creatures in the wild. But if prefer to stay dry, there are still ways to take in the coastline. Book an optional sunset cruise and you may well see a humpback breaching and blowing, dolphins in your wake. The decision is all yours today. We wouldn’t blame you for simply strolling along the sand…

Exmouth - Carnarvon

Don’t want to get your hair wet? You’re in luck. Today’s cruise in a glass-bottomed boat allows you to glimpse Ningaloo’s extraordinary marine life in style. At Coral Bay marine sanctuary, your guide will point out colourful coral, turtles and fish while you glide – more than 500 species call this protected patch of ocean home. From this thriving underwater ecosystem to overhead attractions, your next stop is the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum. Did you know this unassuming destination played a role in the 1969 moon landing? That’s just one of its claims to fame, as you’ll discover touring the gallery’s collection.  

Hotel: Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon

Carnarvon - Monkey Mia

Prepare yourself for the ‘living fossils’ at Hamelin Pool, home to the most abundant colony of stromatolites in the world. These astounding creatures show us what life was like 3,500-million years ago, when there was no other complex life on Earth. You’re officially in the state’s World Heritage listed Shark Bay, the largest of its kind in Australia with more than 1,000 kilometers of beaches. Not all of them sandy – welcome to Shell Beach. Here, the snow-white colour comes from billions of tiny coquina bivalve shells, up to 10 metres deep and stretching for 70 kilometers. And just when you thought the outlook couldn’t get any better, you arrive at Monkey Mia.   

Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 Nights

Monkey Mia Free Time

If you didn’t fall in love with the gin-clear waters, powdery sand, and rusty-red dunes of Monkey Mia last night, you certainly will today. Meet the wild resident dolphins that turn up to the shore every morning to interact with humans. They arrive in a pod, and splash about in the shallows, before dancing away to catch a few waves. When it’s time to tear yourself away, the afternoon is yours, at leisure. Sign up to see yet more dolphins on an optional sunset cruise, perhaps? Or enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of Shark Bay on an optional scenic flight? 

Monkey Mia - Geraldton

Peregrine falcons are a common sight from Hawks Head Lookout in Kalbarri National Park. Who could blame them for wanting to live in this part of WA, particularly pretty during wildflower season. At this time of year, the countryside is an eye-popping patchwork of blooming acacia, banksia, caladenia, and so much more. Arriving in Geraldton, pay homage to the 645 Australian sailors who were lost off the WA coast during WWII at the HMAS Sydney Memorial. Then discover the rest of the seaside town at your own pace, cycling to the red-and-white striped lighthouse, wandering the foreshore or visiting the cathedral.

Hotel: Mantra Geraldton

Geraldton - Perth

Did we leave the best till last? Nambung National Park’s Pinnacles are a staggering collection of natural limestone structures, jutting into the sky – up to 3.5 metres high. Some 30,000 years ago, the sea receded and left deposits of shells. Over time, coastal winds removed the sand, leaving behind this surreal moonscape. It’s a spiritual place, as is Yanchep National Park, where your Aboriginal guide decodes native plants and tells Dreamtime stories of how the land was created. Prepare to get hands on, tasting bush tucker and even playing the didgeridoo. Well, trying to play it…

Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Perth

Farewell from Perth

It’s hard to believe this epic adventure has come to an end. Three weeks of incredible memories to take home with you. 

Welcome to Darwin

The capital of the Northern Territory is beguiling; its balmy tropical climes, fiery sunsets, laid-back locals and surprising attractions. Take in the sights on a tour, your guide revealing the city’s distinctive architectural style along with the events that have shaped it over the years. Did you know you can still witness damage from 1974’s Cyclone Tracy, and that the city was bombed in 1942? Prepare yourself for an exploration of Darwin's top attractions, including the botanical garden, the breathtaking views from East Point Reserve, and a dinner-with-a-view experience at a beloved waterfront restaurant favored by locals.
 

Hotel: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Darwin - Katherine

As you begin your sojourn south, yet more reminders of the impact WWII had on the region are outside your window. The headquarters of a military base once stood along the banks of the Adelaide River, and there’s a cemetery nearby to remember those who lost their lives here. It’s a sobering sight. Then nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park bordering Kakadu. This is Jawoyn land, and a place where you’ll feel your spirit soar. Particularly when you’re cruising through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, your boat the only sound echoing around this enormous chasm. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. There’s no time to catch your breath – you’re off to meet Tom Curtain on a vast working outback station. Tom’s quite the entertainer, and regales visitors with songs and stories during his Katherine Outback Experience. Fun, engaging and insightful.

Hotel: Paraway Motel

Katherine - Kununurra

Say goodbye to the NT and hello to WA, your introduction to the state the unexpected delights of Kununurra. It’s in the middle of nowhere, and only exists because of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Before it was a twinkle on the map, farming pioneers came here to establish vast cattle stations. The life of one such family is chronicled at the Durack Homestead Museum, revealing how the property was dismantled then reassembled on higher ground when much of the countryside was flooded for the dam. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. A sunset cruise here, surrounded by tens of thousands of freshwater crocs and an astounding array of birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry. Well, until the next expedition: from Kununurra, all roads lead to some of WA’s most postcard-worthy sights, the Bungle Bungles among them.    

Hotel: Kununurra Country Club Resort, 2 Nights

Kununurra

How active and adventurous do you want today to be? Rise early to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beehive-like rock formations of the Bungle Bungles on an optional scenic flight over World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park. Or stay grounded on a 4WD tour through the ethereal landscape. Otherwise, lace up your walking shoes and wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as the ‘mini-Bungles’ for its rocky resemblance. Both destinations reveal the mind-boggling geology of this part of the world. Whatever direction you go, be sure to join the locals atop Kelly’s Knob for views over the town.

Kununurra - Emma Gorge

It’s not every day that you have the privilege of glimpsing the inner workings of a rum distillery with the family that owns it. Thanks to our AAT Kings connections, we’ve organized for you to meet the makers and discover how Hoochery Distillery prepares its lip-smacking, award-winning rums and whiskys. Try a tasting paddle to get your heart started or sit down to a slice of rum cake – morning tea sorted. The Gibb River Road is the stuff road trip legends are made of. You’ll see why, your route to El Questro Wilderness Park covering a few kilometers of the epic expanse. Now exhale – your safari-style tents for the night are backdropped by the Cockburn Range, surrounded by an oasis of pandanus and palms. When darkness falls, expect a bedazzlement of stars overhead.   

Hotel: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities, 2 Nights

El Questro Wilderness Park

The best way to wake up? With the sun streaming through your tent, wildlife all around. The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River, a mecca for those who love a spot of barramundi fishing. Arriving at Chamberlain Gorge, an enormous fresh waterhole, your cruise chariot awaits. Jump aboard to feel very small indeed, your boat dwarfed by soaring 60-metre escarpments, a brilliant shade of orange in the morning sun. When it’s time to cool down, take an afternoon dip, whether in the resort pool or at a waterhole within Emma Gorge. Take your pick. The latter is a challenge to reach – you will work up a sweat hiking there. But diving in at the end is worth the effort. Be back on your patio in time for sundowners.  

Emma Gorge - Halls Creek

Until recently, the Argyle Diamond Mine was the world’s largest producer of rare, and dazzling, pink diamonds. While operations have ceased, you can still visit and go behind the scenes. Your Aboriginal guide will not only point out where the magic once happened, but also explain the significance of this land – the traditional Barramundi Dreaming site – to First Nations communities. Equally important to Aboriginal communities is the Great Sandy Desert, which Halls Gap perches on the edge of. This place is small in population, but big in personality.

Hotel: Kimberley Hotel

Halls Creek - Fitzroy Crossing

The remote town of Fitzroy Crossing acts as the gateway to Danggu (Geikie) Gorge. But before you cruise the waterway, continue your deep dive into culture at the Aboriginal art gallery here – it’s an important part of the community, supporting local creatives. Then embark your boat to discover how this remarkable part of the Kimberley was formed by the Fitzroy River carving the Napier Range, leaving behind a dramatic chasm with 30-metre walls, home to a plethora of wildlife. This all happened in Devonian times, some 350 million years ago. Keep watch for all creatures great and small, from freshwater crocs to fruit bats and wallabies. Look up to see white-bellied sea eagles and rare, purple-crowned fairy wrens.

Hotel: Fitzroy River Lodge

Fitzroy Crossing - Broome

Among the most multicultural cities in Australia, Broome became a base for fortune-seekers the world over during its ‘pearl rush’. Many of them never left. The pristine waters here grow great oysters, and the resulting pearls are prized by lovers of all things that gleam. A city tour will give you your bearings, taking you through colourful Chinatown and pointing out the legendary outdoor cinema (back in the day, it used to flood, and locals would bring along fishing lines). Then it’s time to settle in for Broome’s other attraction: its sunsets. Follow locals to the sand on Cable Beach – there’s 22 kilometres to explore here, with space for 4WDs, camels and foot traffic. Grab a drink to salute the end of another spectacular day in WA.

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 Nights

Broome Free Time

The hardest thing you have to do today is decide how to spend it. We have a few ideas. Head north to feel the full force of nature on an optional scenic flight over (or heart-starting cruise through) the magical Horizontal Falls. Enlist to do both, to grasp just how mighty the tides are here, ramming through two narrow chasms and creating a waterfall that appears to have been tipped on its side. It will take your breath away, in more ways than one – those boats move fast. Or simply enjoy Broome’s tropical climes, strolling along Cable Beach, hunting for dinosaur footprints and browsing the pearl boutiques in town. It’s hard to resist a purchase; even harder when you go straight to the source at a pearl farm, to see how they’re painstakingly grown and harvested.

Farewell from Broome

Eleven days, countless memories, a bunch of new friends… you’ll leave Broome with your travel wanderlust ignited. 

Welcome to Broome

Travel to the tropical resort town of Broome on the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a Broome orientation tour with your Travel Director and hear stories of this famous pearling town. Cable Beach has some of the best sunsets in Western Australia so sit back and relax with a drink to watch the spectacular sunset over the ocean.

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 nights

Broome Free Time

Today you have a full free day to explore this tropical hideaway. From a scenic flight over the Horizontal Falls to cruising through the unique horizontal falls on a boat (pre book as it sells out) there are many options for you to explore the area. You may enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 22 kilometres of pristine sand and turquoise water that is Cable Beach. Wander through Chinatown, shop for pearls or just relax at the resort. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for dinner overlooking Cable Beach.

Broome – Port Hedland

Today get set to head south to Western Australia's famous Pilbara region which is known for its rich cultural landscape, red earth and vast mineral deposits. Port Hedland is a hub for major resource activity and is a powerhouse of the Australian economy. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and then stick around for the local musicians.

Hotel: The Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland

Port Hedland – Karijini National Park

Journey into the depths of the Pilbara to Karijini National Park in the Hamersley Ranges. The startling landscape of spectacular gorges, waterfalls and rock pools provides a striking contrast to the stark red landscape of the Pilbara. Your stay tonight is in safari-style eco tents. You can sit on your private deck with a good book and relax watching the sun set and fall asleep to the calming sounds of nature.

Hotel: Karijini Eco Retreat, 2 nights

Karijini National Park

Today you'll explore deep into Karijini National Park. The ancient geological formations of Karijini National Park with its red layered cliffs that line the spectacular gorges eroded over billions of years. The picturesque gorges, refreshing waterfalls and the emerald waterholes but there is also the beautiful gum trees and termite mounds that make up Karijini National Park. The National Park is truly an extraordinary landscape to explore.

Karijini National Park – Exmouth

Today travel further through the stunning Pilbara region to the North West Cape and the town of Exmouth. Exmouth is situated on the boundary of Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Marine Park home to the spectacular Ningaloo Reef. Our special accommodation for the next few nights is situated right on the water of the Exmouth Gulf.

Hotel: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, 2 nights

Exmouth Free time

Free time today allows you to do as you choose. With Ningaloo Reef right on the doorstep of this town, why not marvel at the size, grace and beauty of the Whale Shark as you swim alongside them in the pristine open ocean of the Ningaloo Marine Park. Take a stroll along the beach, relax by the hotel pool overlooking the ocean and why not choose a sunset cruise as it is a fantastic way to end your day.

Exmouth – Carnarvon

Today, on a shallow draft glass bottom boat, cruise over World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef at famous Coral Bay. Your local guide will show you extraordinary coral formations found in the lagoon gardens of the inner reef. On this coral cruise you'll see wonderful fish and bright unspoiled corals without having to get in the water. It's a fantastic experience! We then make the journey south to the town of Carnarvon where you’ll visit the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum.

Hotel: Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon

Carnarvon – Monkey Mia

Discover Hamelin Pool and see the world’s best known colony of Stromatolites. Dating back to the beginning of life on earth, while they may not appear alive, these living structures have helped scientists unravel the history of life on earth! Later visit fascinating Shell Beach that is formed from billions of coquina bivalve shells that can be up to ten metres deep along the water. Continue to the crystal blue waters of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shark Bay and the pristine white sandy beaches of Monkey Mia. You will instantly feel totally relaxed at this beach side resort.

Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 nights

Monkey Mia Free Time

Every morning, Monkey Mia's wild dolphins swim close to shore where the National Park Rangers explain the feeding habits of these friendly mammals that they know by name.  After watching the famous dolphins swim into shore (Note: As dolphins are wild their appearance cannot be guaranteed) enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the calm waters of the bay. The rest of the day is free for you to explore or relax. You might choose a leisurely boat cruise through the waters to spot marine life or why not choose to take to the air with a scenic flight over the amazing Shark Bay. 

Monkey Mia – Geraldton

Venture through Kalbarri National Park and visit Hawks Head Lookout to view the spectacular scenery of Murchison River Gorge. Keep an eye out for graceful Peregrine Falcons hunting along the gorges and cliffs. During wildflower season, the National Park is a bloom with many a variety of wildflower. You'll spot Acacia, Banksia, Caladenia and more! On arrival in Geraldton you'll visit the evocative HMAS Sydney Memorial and have the chance to discover the seaside township.

Hotel: Mantra Geraldton

Geraldton – Perth

Visit the Nambung National Park, home of the marvellous Pinnacles. Afterwards stop at the seaside hamlet of Lancelin at lunchtime. This afternoon visit Yanchep National Park where you’ll enjoy a fantastic Aboriginal cultural experience in a bush setting. Meet your Aboriginal guide who’ll share with you their way of life and will treat you to the enchanting sounds of the didgeridoo. It's a hands-on experience where you'll have the chance to touch and feel traditional Aboriginal. Continue to Perth and join your fellow travellers for a few laughs over a Farewell dinner.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Perth

Farewell from Perth

This morning say goodbye to your fellow travellers after breakfast when your trip comes to an end.

Welcome to Perth

The Western Australian capital is colourful in more ways than one. There are alleys lined with eye-popping street art and installations, an homage to the state’s creatives. And wildflowers and natives blanketing 400-hectare Kings Park and Botanic Garden, set on a pretty bend of the Swan River. At the middle of it all is the Anzac Memorial, a spot as humbling as it is serene. Discover the sights on a tour, then head to dinner to meet your fellow adventurers. They’ll be best mates in no time.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Perth

Perth - Geraldton

Talk about starting on a high. First stop is Yanchep National Park, where your Aboriginal guide decodes native plants and tells Dreamtime stories of how the land was created. Prepare to get hands-on, tasting bush tucker and even playing the didgeridoo. Well, trying to play it… Just as scene-stealing and spiritual are Nambung National Park’s Pinnacles, a staggering collection of natural limestone structures, jutting into the sky – up to 3.5 metres high. Some 30,000 years ago, the sea receded and left deposits of shells. Over time, coastal winds removed the sand, leaving behind this surreal moonscape. Arriving in Geraldton, pay homage to the 645 Australian sailors who were lost off the WA coast during WWII at the HMAS Sydney Memorial. Then discover the rest of the seaside town at your own pace, cycling to the red-and-white striped lighthouse, wandering the foreshore or visiting the cathedral.

Hotel: Mantra Geraldton

Geraldton - Monkey Mia

Prepare yourself for the ‘living fossils’ at Hamelin Pool, home to the most abundant colony of stromatolites in the world. These astounding creatures show us what life was like 3,500-million years ago, when there was no other complex life on Earth. You’re officially in the state’s World Heritage listed Shark Bay, the largest of its kind in Australia with more than 1,000 kilometers of beaches. Not all of them sandy – welcome to Shell Beach. Here, the snow-white colour comes from billions of tiny coquina bivalve shells, up to 10 metres deep and stretching for 70 kilometers. And just when you thought the outlook couldn’t get any better, you arrive at Monkey Mia. 

Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, 2 Nights

Monkey Mia Free Time

If you didn’t fall in love with the gin-clear waters, powdery sand and rusty-red dunes of Monkey Mia last night, you certainly will today. Meet the wild resident dolphins that turn up to the shore every morning to interact with humans. They arrive in a pod, and splash about in the shallows, before dancing off to catch a few waves. When it’s time to tear yourself away, the afternoon is yours, at leisure. Sign up to see yet more dolphins on a sunset cruise, perhaps? Or enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of Shark Bay on a scenic flight. 

Monkey Mia - Carnarvon

From this thriving marine ecosystem to overhead attractions, your next stop is the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum. Did you know it played a role in the 1969 moon landing, and was instrumental in the space race? These are among the gallery’s claims to fame, as you’ll discover touring the collection. Your visit here, with passionate guides, is interactive and educational, so prepare to channel your inner Neil Armstrong and try on space suits before climbing aboard a supercraft simulator.

Hotel: Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon

Carnarvon - Exmouth

Don’t want to get your hair wet? You’re in luck. Today’s cruise in a glass-bottomed boat allows you to glimpse the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Coast, and its extraordinary marine life, in comfort. Gliding around Coral Bay, your guide will point out colourful corals, turtles and playful fish – more than 500 species call this protected patch of ocean home. This pocket of the state is also blessed with Cape Range National Park, where immense gorges and waterfalls characterize the countryside. But your focus here should be firmly on the ocean, whether you’re swimming in it or cruising above it, or gazing over it from Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.

Hotel: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, 2 Nights

Exmouth Free Time

Depending on the time of year, Ningaloo Reef is home to both whale sharks and humpback whales. Thanks to the region’s ethically minded operators, you can now opt to snorkel with both. There’s nothing quite as humbling as spotting these enormous creatures in the wild. But if you prefer to stay dry, there are still ways to take in the coastline. Book an optional sunset cruise and you may well see a humpback breaching and blowing, dolphins in your wake. The decision is all yours today. We wouldn’t blame you for simply strolling along the sand…

Exmouth - Karijini National Park

There are a few (hundred) kilometers of Pilbara to cover between Exmouth on the coast and inland Karijini National Park. A frontier like no other, Karijini is a place where gorges seem to cleave off the edge of the Earth, waterfalls tumble from escarpments and remote turquoise rock pools shimmer like precious gems. The wilderness is wilder, the colours brighter, the air clearer. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think someone had taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. Even darkness doesn’t temper the natural drama. You’re miles from the nearest town, and in the absence of light pollution you can look forward to dazzling stargazing, even from bed in your safari-tent.  

Hotel: Karijini Eco Retreat, 2 Nights

Karijini National Park

Bring your stamina and your camera – today’s Karijini tour weaves deep into the national park. It took billions of years to create the geological wonders you see: the red layered cliffs, the quiet gorges, the soaring gum trees and distinctive termite mounds. It covers a staggering 630,000 hectares just north of the Tropic of Capricorn in the Hamersley Range, making it WA’s second-largest national park. Its location also makes it steamy – if you packed your swimsuit, cooling off under waterfalls and drifting about in waterholes comes highly recommended.

Karijini National Park - Port Hedland

The eye-opening colours of the Pilbara region are your backdrop today – rich red earth streaked with mineral deposits. It’s sparsely populated, but you will find people in the major hub of Port Hedland. There are plenty of local characters to meet over dinner at your hotel, which gets busy when musicians begin to play. Before you leave, head to a lookout to spot migrating humpback whales and snubfin dolphins cruising along the coast, season pending

Hotel: The Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland

Port Hedland - Broome

The reason Broome was born is because of pearls – the waters here grow some of the best oysters in the world, as you’ll discover on a city tour. The ‘pearl rush’ saw fortune-seekers from around the world descend. And many never left, making Broome one of the most multicultural destinations in Australia. Today, the city is just as well known for its sizzling Indian Ocean sunsets, best enjoyed from a vantage on, or near, Cable Beach. This stretch of sand is long. So long that it can accommodated 4WDs, camels and foot-traffic. Perch here, or head to a waterside café. Order a drink, and settle in. 

Hotel: Cable Beach Club Resort, 2 Nights

Broome Free Time

Today is yours to explore. There are many reasons to linger in town, browsing pearl boutiques, tackling some of Cable Beach’s 22 kilometers, exploring colourful Chinatown. Or venture further afield on an optional experience to witness the full force of some of the world’s biggest tides. The Horizontal Falls is no ordinary waterfall. Here, changing tides push an immense amount of water through two narrow chasms in a short period of time. And voila – the appearance of a waterfall, tipped on its side. What does one do when faced with this rush? Tackle it in a speedboat, of course. For a different perspective, head to the skies on a scenic flight. Or do both. 

Broome - Fitzroy Crossing

Things are bigger in Broome, including the footprints. Some 125 million years ago dinosaurs left their mark along the coast. Glimpse their stomping ground before venturing toward Fitzroy Crossing, a remote town and the gateway to Danggu (Geikie) Gorge. This remarkable part of the Kimberley was formed by the Fitzroy River carving the Napier Range. This all happened in Devonian times, some 350 million years ago. It’s a fertile home to everything from freshwater crocs to fruit bats and wallabies, which will gaze at you from the top of the 30-metre-high cliffs that surround. That’s not the only reason to look up – keep watch for white-bellied sea eagles and rare, purple-crowned fairy wrens. It’s a fertile home for creatures big and small, from freshwater crocs to fruit bats.

Hotel: Fitzroy River Lodge

Fitzroy Crossing - Halls Creek

Dive deep into First Nations culture on a visit to an art gallery, a community venue supporting Aboriginal creatives in the Fitzroy Crossing region. Your destination for the night is Halls Creek: small in population, but big in personality. Like your last port, Aboriginal Songlines are strong. These communities have lived on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert for millennia. European influence is more recent, thanks to a brief gold rush which revealed the potential of the land for cattle stations. 

Hotel: Kimberley Hotel

Halls Creek - Emma Gorge

When the Argyle Diamond Mine was in operation, it produced more than 95% of the world’s pink diamonds. Oh, the carats that have come out of here! It stopped mining these rare (and dazzling) gems at the end of 2020, but you can still visit the immense site with an Aboriginal guide. Which means you not only go behind the scenes of operations, but also learn about the significance of the land – the traditional Barramundi Dreaming site – to Aboriginal communities. From here you’re on the epic Gibb River Road, a wild adventure that traverses 660 kilometers across the Kimberley. You’re getting a taster en route to El Questro Wilderness Park, backdropped by the rusty red Cockburn Ranges. Hidden among the pandanus and palms are a string of slick safari-style tents. Which means you can gaze at the stars while you drift off to a chorus of frogs and cicadas.  

Hotel: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities, 2 Nights

El Questro Wilderness Park

No alarm-clock necessary: nature wakes you here. The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River to Chamberlain Gorge, a dreamy fresh waterhole where wallabies and crocs play (not with each other). Your boat is dwarfed by the gorge’s soaring 60-metre escarpments, a brilliant shade of orange in the morning sun. Days in this part of WA can heat up. This afternoon’s remedy? A splash in the resort’s pool, perhaps, or a dip in a waterhole within Emma Gorge. The latter is a challenge to reach – you will work up a sweat hiking there. But diving in at the end is worth the effort. Be sure to be back on your patio in time for sundowners.

Emma Gorge - Kununurra

Kununurra appears to have been dropped in the middle of nowhere, born through the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. It now waters crops like sugarcane, turned into lip-smacking rum at family-owned Hoochery Distillery. Go behind the scenes with the owners; there’s time for a tasting, or sit down to a slice of delicious rum cake – your morning tea sorted. See what life was like in the region for early pioneers at the Durack Homestead Museum, which was meticulously moved and recreated before the land it formerly sat on was flooded as part of the Irrigation Scheme. The same project not only helped water the countryside but created Lake Argyle. A sunset cruise here, surrounded by tens of thousands of freshwater crocs and an astounding array of birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry.

Hotel: Kununurra Country Club Resort, 2 Nights

Kununurra

Today is one of decisions: An optional early-morning flight over (or 4WD tour of) the beehive rock formations of the Bungle Bungles in World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park? Or a wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as the ‘mini-Bungles’ for its resemblance to its more well-known neighbour. Both experiences reveal the mind-boggling geology of this part of the world. Regardless, sunset should be enjoyed atop Kelly’s Knob. Follow the lead of locals, who hang out here on a nightly basis – because there’s no such thing as a ‘bad’ sunset. 

Kununurra - Katherine

Say goodbye to WA and hello to the NT, your introduction to the state the vast pastoral lands that characterise the outback here. Locals come with plenty of country swagger, as you’ll discover when you meet the horseman and award-winning musician Tom Curtain for an afternoon of knee-slappin’ fun on a working station. Tom’s quite the entertainer, and regales visitors with songs and stories during his Katherine Outback Experience. It’s not a show or a tour, but an immersive adventure. One that is real, raw, and side-splitting at times. 

Hotel: Paraway Motel

Katherine - Darwin

Nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park on Jawoyn land. The history and culture of the Traditional Landowners comes into full focus as you set off on a cruise through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts its soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. Your northern sojourn begins with yet more insights into the region’s historic events – the huge impact WWII had here is remembered in a war cemetery on the banks of the Adelaide River. It’s a sombre affair. More reminders of WWII await in sultry Darwin, where a city tour showcases architectural style as well as the events that have shaped it over the years.

Hotel: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Farewell from Darwin

It’s hard to believe this epic adventure has come to an end. Three weeks of incredible memories to take home with you.

Welcome to Perth

Perth may be the West Australian capital, but it’s home to a remarkable amount of green space. Follow your Tour Director to inner-city Kings Park to witness more than 3,000 floral species in the Botanic Garden, overlooking the Swan River, not to mention art installations and the Anzac Memorial. It’s a relaxed entrée to the next two weeks of action and adventure. Your Western Australia tour from Perth is primed to begin.   

Hotel: Holiday Inn West Perth

Perth - Wave Rock

Wave Rock deserves its name – the cliff resembles an enormous surf wave about to crash into the bush. Stretching 110 metres, the rainbow-hued granite swell was formed more than three million years ago. It’s a short walk from another imaginatively named rock formation: Hippo’s Yawn. You can actually climb through the hippo’s ‘neck’ to grab a happy snap. Wave Rock locals are a friendly bunch, and they’re truly passionate about the place they call home. But don’t take our word for it. Meet Sheena, who will proudly show you around her farm and discuss life on the land. Which can be harsh, but also extremely healing, in a way unique to the wide open spaces of the Aussie outback. You even get to feed her cattle and glimpse her collection of vintage cars.

Hotel: Wave Rock Motel, Hyden

Wave Rock - Kalgoorlie

Get your bearings on a Kalgoorlie town tour, including vistas over the staggering ‘Super Pit’ open-cut gold mine. Today’s outings continue to gleam as you visit Hannans North Mine – the history here is overwhelming – Kalgoorlie’s ‘Golden Mile’. Nothing quite puts things into perspective like standing next to enormous U-Haul trucks and loaders.

Hotel: Rydges Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie - Esperance

More than 31,000 hectares of sweeping heathlands, rugged coastal peaks and white sandy beaches… it’s no wonder Cape Le Grand National Park is regularly voted among the most alluring of its kind in Australia. Just when you thought Western Australia couldn’t get any prettier, you arrive at Thistle Cove – sun, sand, sea and sculpted rock formations that ‘whistle’ with the sounds of the wind and waves – and Lucky Bay, a postcard-worthy cove where kangaroos sunbake on the sand.  

Hotel: Comfort Inn Bay of Isles

Esperance - Albany

 
Today’s tour from Perth continues through some of the most bountiful wilderness areas in the state. First the Fitzgerald River National Park, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, then the Stirling Range National Park, blanketed with a staggering range of wildflowers – more than 1,500 different species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Get an overview from the Bluff Knoll Lookout, topping one of WA’s highest peaks.

Hotel: The Dog Rock Motel, 2 Nights

Albany Free Time

Nature, history, food and wine… there’s not much that Albany can’t do. The hardest thing you have to do today is decide which direction you want to travel. Perhaps opt for an Albany tour that relives the town’s heritage as the last port of call for ANZAC troopships departing Australia in WWI. Being here is a moving experience that tells the tale of thousands of servicemen. Maybe explore Torndirrup National Park, where steep cliffs give way to dramatic rock formations and whales are a common sight during migration. Or get a taste for the region on a culinary excursion that includes tastings of local cheeses, fudge, chocolate, ice-cream, cider, wines and gins. Better wear your elastic-waisted pants for this one. But don’t fill up too much – Margaret River tours await.  

Albany - Margaret River

Suspended 40 metres above the forest floor, the Tree Top Walk gives you a bird’s-eye view of the soaring tingle trees that stand large through the Valley of the Giants. More lofty attractions await at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the tallest of its kind in Australia, set at the tip of a peninsula where the Indian and Southern oceans meet. Standing here, the wind in your hair, you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the Earth. Being amid nature makes you thirsty. It’s a good thing the Margaret River wine region is on the horizon.  

Hotel: Stay Margaret River, 2 Nights

Margaret River

The Margaret River’s 200 vineyards produce 25 per cent of Australia’s premium wines. And then there are the gourmet purveyors in between… you’re in for a tasty day. Vasse Virgin makes olive oil that’s sweet enough to drink. We recommend you savour it with bread, however, while learning how it’s made and browsing other products it’s used in – like delicately scented soaps. Lunch is leisurely, at a vineyard with plenty of time to sip and savour local drops, many of chich take home global awards. If you still have room for dinner, ask us for recommendations. 

Margaret River - Fremantle

The Margaret River is one of the only wine regions in the world where grapes are grown just metres from the sand. The coastal backdrop follows you all the way to  Busselton, home to the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Tip your cap to those who built this 1.8-kilometre structure out into Geographe Bay.

Hotel: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle - by Rydges, 2 Nights

Fremantle Free Time

Sometimes, the most memorable travel days are those where you lose yourself wandering the foreshore, lingering over lunch or a cool ale. We highly recommend you spend this day of leisure doing just that (Freo’s Little Creatures Brewery is legendary). Of course, having a local show you around also has its benefits, with a Fremantle tour revealing those hidden haunts most visitors pass right on by. If you’re catching the ferry for a Rottnest Island tour, make sure you have your phone ready to capture selfies with the island’s smiley quokkas, not to mention the blindingly turquoise water.

Fremantle - Geraldton

Yanchep National Park is staggeringly beautiful. It’s also incredibly spiritual, as you’ll discover on an Aboriginal cultural experience revealing First Nations history through Dreamtime stories and didgeridoo sessions. It’s a hands-on experience – don’t worry if you can’t make the didg hum; there are traditional tools to play with and bush tucker to sample. We’ve left some of the best to last: entering Nambung National Park you’re greeted by an ethereal moonscape. Your Pinnacles tour meanders around this collection of head-scratching limestone formations. This afternoon, Geraldton’s moving HMAS Sydney Memorial beckons. 

Hotel: Mantra Geraldton

Geraldton - Monkey Mia

The colours of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay are so vivid, you’ll think they’re painted on, a patchwork of blues fading into powdery sand so white you’ll need your sunglasses. This is what awaits in Monkey Mia, where the day is all yours. We wouldn’t blame you wandering barefoot along the beach, ordering sundowners as the day disappears in a blaze of glory. Other than a cruise to spot all sea creatures great and small, perhaps the best way to gain perspective of the vast coastline is on an optional scenic flight over Shark Bay Marine Park. 

Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort

Monkey Mia - Kalbarri

Bring your stamina – today’s adventures begin early. But if there’s anything worth getting out of bed for, it’s Monkey Mia’s wild dolphins, which swim close to shore to greet visitors every morning. Keep your sunnies handy at Shell Beach, a powder-white cove formed from billions of coquina bivalve shells up to 10 metres deep, and Hamelin Pool, the world’s best-known colony of stromatolites. Believe it or not, these rock-like formations are alive. Arriving at Kalbarri National Park you’ll take in the Murchison River Gorge from the Kalbarri Hawks Head Lookout. If you’re here during wildflower season, expect acacia, banksia and caladenia in full bloom. 
 

Hotel: Kalbarri Edge Resort

Kalbarri - Perth

Just when you thought WA couldn’t get any more colourful, Hutt Lagoon appears on the horizon – just one of the state’s bubblegum pink lakes. Arriving back in Perth you have a Farewell Dinner to swap contact details with your new friends and reminisce about the last two weeks.

Hotel: Holiday Inn West Perth

Farewell from Perth

Fourteen days of wild adventures on your tour from Perth – it’s hard to pick a WA highlight. That’s what your journey home is for.

Welcome to Hobart

You don’t have to venture far from your hotel to find inspiration in Hobart, Tasmania’s cool little capital. Whether you’re exploring the harbour precinct with its oh-so-tasty seafood restaurants, browsing one of the city’s applauded galleries, or easing into your Tasmania tour by kicking back in a hidden wine bar, there city doesn’t disappoint. Save room for your welcome dinner hero-ing local produce, enjoyed in the company of your fellow adventure-seekers and soon-to-be best friends. 

Hotel: Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart , 2 Nights

Hobart

From alpaca throws to woodwork, gin to garden-fresh vegetables, Salamanca Market is like creative Tasmania in a bustling snapshot. Grab a coffee and a bulging bacon-and-egg breakfast roll before navigating more than 300 stalls, wedged alongside the Salamanca precinct’s historic sandstone warehouses. Your afternoon excursions delve deep into many of the things that make Hobart great: the leafy Botanic Gardens spotlighting endemic plants, historic Battery Point and the Cascade Brewery – raspberry cider, anyone? End the day on a literal high at the Mt Nelson Lookout, offering dizzying views over the city and the River Derwent, all the way to Bruny Island in the south.  

Hobart - Strahan

From waterfalls to lakes to ancient moonscapes, today is a journey of contrasts. Not to mention blissful moments of soul revival. Exhale amid the tangle of forest that drapes Mt Field National Park, where tiered Russell Falls casts a veil of mist over the flora. Forget your worries at mirror-like Lake St. Clair, the deepest of its kind in Australia. Sigh as you skirt the World Heritage-protected Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Then revel in the serenity of Strahan on the wild West Coast of the island. Did you know you’re overlooking Macquarie Harbour, which is a whopping seven times the size of Sydney Harbour?

Hotel: Strahan Village

Strahan - Cradle Mountain

No day that involves a cruise is a bad day. Even better if it’s the deep, dark waters of the far-flung Tassie’s Gordon River. Soak up the silence of this untouched wilderness area on your Gordon River cruise en route to Sarah Island, the state’s oldest convict settlement. Today, the island’s haunting ruins have been reclaimed by nature, enveloped by forest and twisting vines. Your commute toward immense Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park visits Rosebery – the tagline here is “welcome to the rainforest, don’t complain about the rain” – and tiny Tullah, population 165. Rest up – Cradle Mountain tours await.  

Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel, 2 Nights

Cradle Mountain

At the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain is all moss-covered ancient rainforest and deep river gorges, snow-tipped peaks, wild alpine moorlands and glacial lakes – case in point Dove Lake, where you’ll likely spot Bennett’s wallabies, echidnas and pademelons grazing. Pause at Waldheim Chalet, once the home of Gustav and Kate Weindorfer, a passionate husband-and-wife team who played a pivotal role in the park’s formation and protection. Being here, you can understand their vision: this pocket of paradise is like a salve for the soul, at once humbling and inspiring.

Cradle Mountain - Launceston

Tasmania has its fair share of award-winning gin and whisky distilleries. Among them – and one of Australia’s pioneers when it comes to delicious drops – is Hellyers Road Distillery in Burnie. The cellar door here pours some of the tastiest tipples you’ll come across. Whisky is a breakfast drink, right? Continue expanding your palate at Mount Gnomon Farm, in the hills overlooking the petite town of Penguin. If there’s a place with a cuter name, we’re yet to locate it on a map. Here, farmer Guy Robertson is as passionate about his orchards of heritage apples as he is about the cider he makes. Sip your way through a Be My Guest lunch. Call in at quirky Sheffield, the ‘Town of Murals’ and continue through the Meander Valley to Launceston.

Hotel: Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston, 2 Nights

Launceston

Prepare for goosebumps – Cataract Gorge is humbling. How many cities can claim they have such a lush expanse of bushland and Victorian gardens within walking distance of the CBD? Explore at your leisure. By the time you reach Josef Chromy Wines, you’ll have worked up a thirst. We’ve got you covered, with a tasting of some of the state’s finest cool-climate wines paired with lunch. Don’t miss a stroll around the verdant grounds. This afternoon is yours: an optional cruise along the Tamar River, perhaps? Or splashing out at one of the produce-driven restaurants the city is known for?

Launceston - Bicheno

You’ll smell Bridestowe Estate well before you arrive – this lavender farm welcomes with soothing aromas (did you know that lavender is a soporific?) and addictive flavours in the form of lavender ice-cream or perhaps a spoon of honey from the half-a-million bees that graze the floral fields. Moving moments await at Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees, a series of  trees carved with sculptures as an homage to fallen WWI soldiers. It’s a poignant reminder just how lucky we are today, to have Tasmania’s scene-stealing landscapes to gaze over. Be sure to head out tonight to catch a glimpse of the little penguins that call this part of the world home.   

Hotel: Diamond Island Beach Resort

Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay

There’s a reason this part of Tasmania takes home top honours for its beaches – they were made for postcards. The brilliant blue ocean follows you through Cape Tourville’s virgin eucalypt forests, with golden beaches as far as the eye can see. Perhaps the only sight more dazzling is the flawless crescent of sand that marks Wineglass Bay, your cruise boat backdropped by the dusty pink Hazards mountains of Coles Bay.  

Hotel: Eastcoaster Tasmania

Triabunna - Hobart

Freestone Point was once home to the world’s largest wood chip mill, built on the unceded lands of the Paredarerme people. It’s had a philosophy change, and now has forward-thinking management intent on charting a sustainable path. As if your ‘welcome to country’ at Oyster Bay wasn’t humbling enough, you’ll then have the chance to visit beehives and worm farms, assisting horticulturists propagating seeds to regenerate the area. The GPS is now set for the historic township of Richmond; explore the convict-built goal and bridge or browsing the quaint boutique shops in town. This evening is at your leisure in Hobart. 

Hotel: Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart , 3 Nights

Port Arthur

While the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site has a grim convict history, you wouldn’t know it today – the countryside is all rolling green fields and ocean views, best glimpsed on a Port Arthur guided tour with an in-the-know historian. The secrets they can tell… It’s only the place names that give Port Arthur’s harsh heritage away: cruise around the Isle of the Dead, glimpse rugged sea cliffs from Pirate’s Bay Lookout, and veer past Tasman’s Arch, Devil’s Kitchen and the Blowhole. Tonight is at your leisure in Hobart – we can recommend any number of stellar restaurants and wine bars. There’s no shortage in Tasmania’s cool little capital.  

Hobart Free Time

There’s something about Tasmania’s capital that encourages life in the slow lane. Perhaps it’s the calming watery outlook. Maybe the art-filled streets. Definitely the forest-clad mountain backdrop. You’ll quickly fall into step, on this day to spend as you will. Perhaps add on a Bruny Island Cruise to spot playful sea lions and ogle Australia’s highest sea cliffs? Or enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Apple Isle on a scenic flight down to the great Southwest? Or get your cultural fix with a visit to the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery. 

Farewell from Hobart

If you can still count all the delicious things you have eaten and drunk, and all the epic things you have seen and done, two weeks down the track, we commend you. Now’s the time to re-live them with friends and family back at home.   

Welcome to Hobart

The Tasmanian capital of Hobart may be small in size, but it’s big in attractions, as you’ll discover this afternoon. Put your destination into perspective from the summit of Mt. Nelson, offering endless vistas over Australia’s southernmost city. View the charming Georgian cottages of Battery Point and explore the cobbled streets and convict built warehouses along Salamanca Place, the backdrop of epic Saturday markets. Visit the waterfront area including Constitution Dock where the yachts finish when competing in the annual Sydney to Hobart race, and take a stroll in the second oldest Botanical Gardens in Australia with its amazing collection of plants from around the world.

Hotel: Best Western Hobart

Hobart - Strahan

Western Tasmania is like nature writ large, a place where the wilderness rules and people are few and far between. Visiting Mount Field National Park is a humbling experience, not only for the fact it’s part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, but also because it’s home to some of the tallest eucalypts and tallest flowering plants on Earth. Wander amid these giants to reach Russell Falls – take a deep breath; your Tasmania tour has begun. Records continue to be broken at Lake St. Clair, the deepest freshwater Lake in Australia, before you arrive in Strahan, gateway to World Heritage-listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. 
 

Hotel: Strahan Village

Strahan - Cradle Mountain

The Gordon River is your playground today, the dark waters here given their colour by amber button-grass tannins. The only thing breaking the mirror-like surface is your chariot as you cruise through Hells Gates, the treacherous entrance to the harbour before returning to Sarah Island, a former penal colony where convicts would fell Huon pines for boat building. Disembark at Heritage Landing to view one of these 500 year old majestic trees. From Strahan motor on towards Cradle Mountain. This evening you can choose to visit some Tasmanian Devils at a sanctuary, or head out to spot wombats, wallabies, pademelons or maybe an elusive quoll who all call this wilderness home.

Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel

Cradle Mountain - Smithton

Today has multiple highs – quite literally. The first is the 1,545-metre Cradle Mountain, your backdrop as you wander to Dove Lake and explore this ancient national park. The second high is ‘The Nut’, a dramatic 152-metre plateau created by the remains of an ancient volcanic plug. It guards over Stanley, a tiny village with swagger to spare. You could spend days exploring the town’s remarkably well-preserved heritage buildings. But more Tasmania holiday highlights await around the corner.  

Hotel: Tall Timbers

Smithton - Launceston

If there’s a town with a cuter name than Penguin, we’re yet to find it. Locals embrace its appeal – there are penguin sculptures at every turn, including one measuring over 3 metres tall. Your journey along the northwest coast also passes through Burnie, Ulverstone and Sheffield, The Town of Murals, boasting over 100 large paintings depicting the area’s rich history and local characters. All this exploring builds an appetite. Refuel at Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm, where happy cows contribute to award-winning cheeses – everything from cheddar and red Leicester to creamy Tasmanian blue. 
 

Hotel: Best Western Plus Launceston, 2 Nights

Launceston

There are few places in the world where you can leave the city behind and within minutes be amid an immense wilderness area. Launceston is one. Blink and you’re at Cataract Gorge, a yawning chasm carved by ancient rivers. This rare natural phenomenon unites bushland with neat Victorian gardens, replete with ferns and exotic plants. Get a different perspective of the green cavern on the scenic chairlift, zipping you over the water to a lofty lookout. We wouldn’t blame you for lingering here, perhaps to venture deeper into the gorge. Or sample further afield with a selection of optional experiences. This afternoon, the choice is yours. 
 

Launceston - Bicheno

You’ll smell Bridestowe before you see it, this enormous lavender farm perfuming the Tasmanian countryside. The flowers grown here aren’t just used in fragrances – they’re also infused into ice-cream, teas and jams. It’s a tasty entrée to the Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees, sculpted into World War One soldiers. Little penguins come out to play in Bicheno; sign up to spot them after dark as they waddle to shore from the water. 

Hotel: Beachfront at Bicheno

Bicheno - Hobart

The colours at Freycinet National Park are so vivid you’ll think someone has taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time: The patchwork of ocean blues that lap Coles Bay and Wineglass Bay. The dramatic pink granite cliffs. There’s a reason why Freycinet adventures star on postcards. The other place on postcards is Richmond, its grand 1820s Georgian buildings today home to bijou boutiques, galleries and cafes that appear to be lost in time 
 

Hotel: Best Western Hobart, 2 Nights

Port Arthur

The Isle of the Dead, Devil’s Kitchen, the Blowhole, Tasman Arch and Eagle Hawk Neck, just some of the remarkable natural attractions found on the Tasman Peninsula, home also to Port Arthur where you’ll be emersed in the region’s notoriously harsh history. This is the best-preserved convict site in Australia, and among the most significant convict-era destinations worldwide. The stories these walls could tell.
 

Farewell from Hobart

It took early explorers months to circumnavigate Tasmania. You’ve completed your Tasmania tour in just 10 days. What a wild ride. 

Sydney - Coffs Harbour

As much as you’ll want to linger in Australia’s largest city, this tour from Sydney begins on a high – Coffs Harbour is calling. On the mid-North Coast of New South Wales, this pocket of paradise has some of the state’s most impressive beaches, not to mention the glorious national parkland that surrounds. Follow the breeze (and lead of locals) to the beach for a dazzling end of day, before meeting your fellow adventure-seekers and Travel Director over dinner.  

Hotel: BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

Coffs Harbour - Gold Coast

Fittingly, your east coast Australia tour takes you to the country’s most easterly point. It’s the stuff that postcards were made for, as you’ll discover when you reach the Cape Byron Lighthouse, standing proud over the Pacific Ocean. Dolphins are a common sight year round, and they’re joined by whales during migration. For lunch, we can point you in the direction of a tasty Byron Bay fish-and-chip shop – order a haul to eat with your feet in the sand. Which you’re going to see plenty of at your next destination.

Hotel: Novotel Surfers Paradise, 2 Nights

Gold Coast

Your base in Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast, a city that really does sparkle. Today you might choose to explore beaches (there are too many to count), lingering in light-filled cafés and restaurants. Or enlist in a Gold Coast tour to see another side of the ‘Goldie’ in the Mt. Tamborine hinterland – a hub for creatives and foodies. The city also breaks records for its extensive network of canals, which you might opt to explore on a leisurely cruise.   

Gold Coast - K'gari (Fraser Island)

Follow the waves north to Hervey Bay, the gateway to World Heritage-Listed K’gari (Fraser Island). The ferry ride across the strait is a highlight, particularly during whale migration when these gentle giants come to the calm, protected waters to calve. Landing on K’gari, expect to see a lot of sand. This is, after all, the world’s largest sand island, and the only place in the world where rainforest grows from the sand.   

Hotel: Kingfisher Bay Resort, 2 Nights

K'gari (Fraser Island)

The island also has a really long sand highway, which you’ll get to zip along on a 4WD Fraser Island tour across 75 Mile Beach, all the way up the east coast to the Pinnacles Coloured Sands, calm Eli Creek and the Maheno shipwreck, which offers quite the photo op. Just when you thought the island couldn’t get any prettier, Lake McKenzie appears on the horizon, this dazzling patch of blue formed only with rainwater. It’s a hard act to follow, but the ancient rainforest at Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek lives up to the challenge with its huge satiny, scribbly gum and kauri trees.

K'gari (Fraser Island) - Rockhampton

Back on the mainland you’re in Queensland’s cattle country. Case in point Langmorn Station, where the Creed family will welcome you with afternoon tea and a tour of the immense (and historic) cattle property – the original family homestead was built in 1873. The Creeds will regale you with stories about life on the land. The theme continues as you cross the Tropic of Capricorn to arrive in Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia. See if it deserves its title sampling some of the town’s restaurants. Ask us for tips.   

Hotel: Quality Hotel Regent, Rockhampton

Rockhampton - Airlie Beach

Another town with an impressive title is Sarina, Australia’s sugar capital. If you’ve ever wanted to know how sugar cane is processed and distilled, you’ll find the guided tour at the Sarina Sugar Shed a sweet addition to the itinerary. And yes, you get to sample the wares. Continue, on a high, along the east coast to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays. Life moves at a leisurely pace here. Fall into step and take things slow tonight.   

Hotel: Mantra Club Croc, 2 Nights

The Whitsunday Islands Free Time

The Whitsunday Islands need little introduction, the 74 tropical drops of land a beguiling union of powdery beaches and rainforest, all ringed by the Coral Sea. There are endless ways to explore this part of the Great Barrier Reef on tour – today, we’re letting you choose. Perhaps rise early for an optional helicopter ride over Heart Reef. Or catch a catamaran to Whitehaven Beach, with sand so high in silica it squeaks underfoot. Decisions, decisions.  

Airlie Beach - Cairns

After all the excitement of yesterday, today it’s time to relax and enjoy the scenery – more sugar cane fields and rolling green paddocks, all framed by the ocean and rainforest-clad mountains. Stretch your legs en route to Cairns and soak up this steamy part of the state.

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns, 3 Nights

Cairns

The Cairns Esplanade is a hive of activity in the morning, with active locals out before the humidity of the day sets in. Keep pace, before cooling off in the Atherton Tablelands, a high tropical plateau of rainforest, including the heritage-listed Curtain Tree. And waterfalls, like Millaa Millaa Falls, where enormous iridescent Ulysses butterflies like to dance. Explore Kuranda before getting some perspective on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, high above the canopy of the Barron Gorge National Park.  

The Great Barrier Reef

Just when you thought your outlook couldn’t get any better, your Cairns tour sees you zipping over the Great Barrier Reef on a high-speed catamaran. Snorkel with six of the world’s sea turtles bobbing over fans of coral, as well as so many fish you won’t know where to look. If you prefer to keep your head above water, the marine world can also be glimpsed from an underwater observatory and glass-bottom boat.

Farewell from Cairns

A ridiculous number of beaches, world-record breaking rainforest, dreamy islands and even dreamier ocean… it’s going to be hard to say goodbye to this east coast Australia tour. Not to mention your fellow travellers. 

Gold Coast - K'gari (Fraser Island)

We hope you love sinking your toes into the sand, because there’s a lot to come. Bid adieu to the Gold Coast’s 70-kilometre coastline and venture north to Hervey Bay for the ferry ride to the world’s largest sand island, and the only place on the planet where rainforest grows from the sand. Welcome to World Heritage listed K’gari. Disconnect from tech, and reconnect with nature. 

Hotel: Kingfisher Bay Resort, 2 Nights

K'gari (Fraser Island)

The other thing sandy is K’gari’s highway­, which you’ll get to zip along on a 4WD tour across 75 Mile Beach, all the way up the east coast to the Pinnacles Coloured Sands, calm Eli Creek and the Maheno shipwreck. Bring your camera, because between the wreck and Lake McKenzie – a dazzling patch of blue formed only with rainwater – you’ll accumulate dozens of happy snaps. It’s a hard act to follow, but the ancient rainforest at Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek lives up to the challenge with its huge satiny, scribbly gum and kauri trees. 

K'gari (Fraser Island) - Rockhampton

In a whiplash, you leave the coast behind and reunite with Queensland’s cattle country. First stop: Langmorn Station, where the Creed family welcome you to their immense (and historic) cattle property with open arms and afternoon tea. And just a few stories about life on the land… The theme continues as you cross the Tropic of Capricorn to arrive in Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia. See if it deserves its title sampling some of the town’s restaurants. Ask us for tips.   

Hotel: Quality Hotel Regent, Rockhampton

Rockhampton - Airlie Beach

From Australia’s beef capital to its sugar capital – today you’re en route to Sarina. If you’ve ever wanted to know how sugar cane is processed and distilled, you’ll find the guided tour at the Sarina Sugar Shed a sweet addition to the itinerary. And yes, you get to sample the wares. Continue, on a high, to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays. Life moves at a leisurely pace here. Fall into step and take things slow tonight.   

Hotel: Mantra Club Croc, 2 Nights

Airlie Beach Free Time

The Whitsunday Islands are the stuff of postcards, a dreamy collection of 74 tropical islands that are all white sandy beaches and dense rainforest, surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef. You have to decide how to take it in. Perhaps on a scenic flight over the legendary Heart Reef, or on a cruise to Whitehaven Beach, where high amounts of silica in the sand means that it squeaks under your feet. Bring your sunglasses – the colours are blinding. 

Airlie Beach - Cairns

Relax – today is all about soaking up the scenery. Think sugar cane fields and rolling green paddocks, all framed by the ocean and rainforest-clad mountains on one side, and the Coral Sea on the other. Stretch your legs en route to Cairns and soak up this steamy part of the state. 

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns, 3 Nights

Cairns

Early morning is the ideal time to explore Cairns, before things get too steamy. Join locals on a heart-starting stroll along the Esplanade. The temperature dips as you climb into the Atherton Tablelands, a high tropical plateau of rainforest, including the heritage listed Curtain Tree. And waterfalls, like Millaa Millaa Falls, where enormous iridescent Ulysses butterflies like to dance. Explore Kuranda before getting some perspective on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, high above and through the canopy of the Barron Gorge National Park.  

Great Barrier Reef

Just when you thought your outlook couldn’t get any better, you’re zipping over the Great Barrier Reef on a high-speed catamaran. Snorkel with six of the world’s sea turtles bobbing over fans of coral, as well as so many fish you won’t know where to look. If you prefer to keep your head above water, the marine world can also be glimpsed from an underwater observatory and glass-bottom boat. 

Farewell from Cairns

From underwater love to overwater love – bid adieu to your new crew of travel buddies

Sydney - Canberra

As hard as it is to say goodbye to Sydney, it’s just as easy to say hello to the Southern Highlands. South of the ‘Harbour City’, the bucolic countryside of Berrima awaits – fun fact: this is the oldest Georgian village in Australia. Not far from here you’re welcomed to Gold Creek Station by sheep farmer Craig Starr for a Be My Guest BBQ lunch and tales about life on the land. And what eye-catching land it is, ringed by glorious gardens and deciduous forest that changes colour with the seasons. Your Sydney to Melbourne trip continues onward to the country's cool little capital, home to Parliament House, where you’ll go behind the political scenes, as well as the Australian War Memorial. Hearing the Last Post on your Canberra guided tour is a moving experience

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Canberra

Canberra - Wangaratta

Get some Canberra perspective from the summit of Mt. Ainslie. You won’t be able to see the Murray River, but you’ll soon cross it en route to Beechworth, Victoria’s best-preserved gold rush town. Get the lowdown on Beechworth over a chat with the publican of the historic local pub, then set you on your way to explore character-filled antiques stores, galleries and museums at your leisure. There are plenty of charming places to refuel, as well, before Wangaratta’s cathedrals beckon.

Hotel: Quality Hotel Wangaratta

Wangaratta - Melbourne

Meandering south toward historic Glenrowan, you’re well and truly in Ned Kelly country – this is where the infamous bushranger and his gang were finally captured in 1880. We’ll tell you all the tales, then a few more about Melbourne, the home of Aussie rules football, some of the country’s best arts institutions, and a swag of stellar restaurants, cafés and bars. Once you have your bearings, explore as you will. We can help with evening restaurant reservations, as well as Melbourne laneway tours. But there’s something magical about just getting lost in the art-filled alleys of Australia’s second-largest city, discovering underground jazz lounges and rooftop eateries to watch the sun set.  

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne, 2 Nights

Melbourne Free Time

You’re on your own today. Well, not really, because your Travel Director is at your service to help arrange sightseeing experiences. After you’ve enjoyed a strong coffee in one of Melbourne’s atmospheric laneways, that is. Adrenaline junkie? Linger in the city, gaining bird’s-eye views from the Eureka Skydeck, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest attraction, looming almost 300 metres above the ground. Animal lover? Venture out on a Phillip Island little penguin tour to see hundreds of these cute creatures pad from the ocean along the sand back to snuggle in their burrows for the night. Want to get back to nature? Chug through the lush Dandenong Ranges on the Puffing Billy Steam Train, followed by a sip or two of wine in the Yarra Valley. This cool-climate growing region makes standout chardonnay, pinot noir and sparklings. The choice is yours. 

Melbourne - Warrnambool

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most epic journeys, a dramatic 240-kilometre union of limestone stacks (Twelve Apostles, we’re looking at you), World Heritage listed rainforest, untouched coastal coves and sleepy towns, like Lorne and Apollo Bay. It’s hard to know where to point your camera. We recommend having it poised to snap shots of the Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge rock formations. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Hotel: Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs

Warrnambool - Naracoorte

Emus, kangaroos, koalas, echidnas… oh my! These are just some of the animals you’ll likely spot as you drive through Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve – housed in a dormant volcanic crater. Remarkably, this pocket of paradise was once wasteland, transformed by volunteers. More volcanic history awaits across the South Australian border in Mt. Gambier, home to the crater-filling Blue Lake. Because it’s very blue. And it’s a lake. By now you’ll be pretty thirsty, so it’s a good thing the Coonawarra wine region is around the corner. After a few sips, you may find yourself getting deep – literally. Naracoorte’s Alexandra Cave is a maze of delicate needle-like stalactites and massive twisting columns.

Hotel: William MacIntosh Motor Lodge, Naracoote

Naracoorte - Kangaroo Island

The Fleurieu Peninsula region of South Australia is a natural adventure playground, all rolling hills, rugged clifftops and sandy beaches. Seaside Victor Harbor turns on the charms – there are steam locomotives – before your ferry blasts its horn. All aboard to tour Kangaroo Island. A well-deserved tasting of craft beer awaits at a boutique brewery, the only one on the island. How does sheoak stout sound or a Mexican inspired brew made using a combination of malted barley and flaked rice? We won’t judge you for sneaking in a nap en route to is Kingscote, South Australia’s oldest European settlement and your base for the night.

Hotel: Aurora Ozone Hotel, Executive Rooms, 2 Nights

Kangaroo Island

If you like alliterations, you’ll love today’s attractions: first stops are Remarkable Rocks (because these rust-hued monoliths really are) and Admirals Arch, home to an immense colony of raucous fur seals. AAT Kings-sponsored Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary was badly damaged by the 2019 bushfires; your Kangaroo Island tour reveals the part fire plays within this delicate ecosystem, and how koalas and other wildlife adapt to their environment as it regenerates. More wildlife greets you at Seal Bay Conservation Park, where enormous sea lions barrel down the sand to the water. This is one of the most significant breeding colonies in the country, and they are certainly curious characters. Just try not to laugh at their antics.

Kangaroo Island - Adelaide

You’ve arrived in the South Australian capital, known for its well-preserved churches and well-admired cuisine. Did you know that Adelaide boasts more restaurants per capita than any other city in Australia? After a cultural walking tour through the city’s Botanic Gardens with an Aboriginal Guide, and an Adelaide city tour, the afternoon is yours to see just how many you can sample – we have a few recommendations, including a visit to the epic Central Market, where you can try green ant gin with cheese, among so many other delicacies.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 2 Nights

Adelaide Hills and the Barossa

Pull on your elastic-waisted pants – today is one of indulgences through the Adelaide Hills and the Barossa, dotted with atmospheric towns like Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. A Barossa and Hahndorf tour reveals the bountiful food and wine this pocket of the state is known for. And you’ll enjoy a tasting from small batch wine makers from across the valley as well as discovering local flavours over lunch at Lambert Estate enveloped by vines.

Farewell from Adelaide

By day 11, you will have a suitcase full of gin, wine and cheese; a camera full of dreamy images; and more memories than you can count. 

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland is hypnotic, the kind of place you could easily lose yourself in for a couple of days. Or weeks. Arrive at your leisure and explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts, take a cruise out to the wineries of Waiheke Island, or just meet fellow travel companions over a few local tipples tonight. 

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Auckland - Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to New Zealand’s dramatic Bay of Islands from Auckland – 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori chiefs. Your guide, perhaps a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house.

Hotel: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms, 2 Nights

Bay of Islands Free Time

If there’s a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy local drops on a wine tour of the region, or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands - Auckland

Today, New Zealand’s most northerly city is well and truly on your radar. Whangarei is a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerizing commute back to Auckland. 

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Auckland - Rotorua

Another day on a tour in Auckland. Lucky you. After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waikato River and your Waitomo Caves tour. This place is radiant – quite literally. While cruising cavernous waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, delve deep into  Māori  culture and traditions at Te Puia. Your dinner, a hangi cooked underground, is served while you overlook the spectacular geothermal valley. The highlight is a Māori  cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.  Enjoy your packed lunch today knowing that a donation is being made on your behalf to local charity Auckland City Mission, where real change can start with just one meal.

Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

Explore at your own pace today, but with plenty of tips from your Travel Director. Want a bit of down time?  We wouldn’t blame you for simply blissing out at in the steamy thermal springs at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of today’s opportunity to visit the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans but a gorgeous countryside getaway.

Rotorua - Wellington

You’ll hear Huka Falls well before you see it – at this natural wonder, a staggering 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, its waters so vivid and blue you’ll think someone has taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to about your Wellington tour.

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington

Wellington - Picton

Your final few hours in Wellington should – must – begin with a coffee. The city is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Inter-islander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets into the sleepy seaside village of Picton.

Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton - Christchurch

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the black sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Talk to your Travel Director for tips on the essential restaurants to dine in tonight – Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Omarama

Christchurch tours show that the city is not only rebuilding itself after the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes, but is changing the way architects think about design. Case in point the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Take it in on an optional scenic flight for added perspective of Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere.   

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Dunedin

If you’ve ever wanted to see New Zealand’s oldest public gardens, today you’re in luck. Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the Edinburgh of the South: Dunedin. It’s easy to while away the afternoon in the city’s atmospheric art-lined alleys. Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Dunedin - Te Anau

Time is on your side this morning. Sleep in or channel your inner royalty on a visit to grand Larnach Castle – the only one of its kind in the country. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are replaced by soaring mountains as you weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this.  Te Anau is also home to magical glowworm-filled caves accessed by boat across the lake. We highly recommend a visit. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this. 

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Te Anau - Queenstown

From the moment you step outside today, nature rules. Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. Gin-clear rivers carve the countryside, with all roads leading to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Cruising this World Heritage-listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for dolphins – they’re a common sight here.  

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown

Take today at your own pace. Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, perhaps. There’s a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau

Try and keep count of today’s lakes. Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown appears on the horizon. We know you’ll want to linger in the movie-set-like streets, lined with trees and character-filled boutiques. But Lake Dunstan awaits, as do its orchards. Pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass,  the pretty town of Franz Josef awaits. Get some perspective on an optional scenic flight over this natural wonder – if the weather behaves, you may even get to land on it.

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef/Waiau - Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika. In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Farewell from Christchurch

Two New Zealand islands. Multiple glaciers. Endless lakes. Thermal springs. Black beaches, and white beaches. An endless parade of wildlife. We hope you find the words to describe this epic adventure to your family back home. 

Welcome to Christchurch

Explore the ‘Garden City’ at your leisure. We recommend jumping aboard the tram for a Christchurch tour – the conductors are a hoot – to discover how the city has rebuilt itself since the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes. It’s changing the way architects think about design. Case in point the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library.
 

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Franz Josef/Waiau

Your New Zealand tour starts on a high as you jump aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Arthurs Pass, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys. Arriving in Hokitika, your outlook is all pounamu (native greenstone or jade). In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Things are about to get cool again as you arrive at Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere, a white-out of snow and ice that shimmers like a gem. Get some perspective on an optional scenic flight over this natural wonder – if the weather behaves, you may even get to land on it. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef/Waiau - Queenstown

Over the Haast Pass, the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes spreads before you. First up there’s lovely Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Followed by oh-so-blue Lake Hawea and Lake Dunstan, where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. We know you’ll want to linger in Arrowtown’s movie-set-like streets, lined with trees and character-filled boutiques. But Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables await on your Queenstown tour.
 

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown Free Time

Take today at your own pace. Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, perhaps. There’s a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wine aficionado? Sip your way through surrounding vineyards. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.     
 

Queenstown - Te Anau

From the moment you step outside today, nature rules. Your route from the Mirror Lakes through the Cleddau Valley is the entrée to your Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tour. Cruising this World Heritage listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for dolphins – they’re a common sight here. The onward road through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and gin-clear rivers, carving up the countryside en route to Te Anau. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any more magical, glowworm-filled caves make an appearance. We highly recommend a visit.

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Te Anau - Dunedin

Soak up the serenity of the South Island’s biggest lake on an early morning walk, perhaps, before leaving the forested slopes of Fiordland behind. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are your new backdrop as you ease into the Edinburgh of the South: Dunedin. While away the afternoon in atmospheric art-lined alleys or sipping a lager or two in Speight’s Brewery (a national institution). Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Dunedin - Omarama

Time is on your side this morning. Sleep in or channel your inner royalty on a visit to grand Larnach Castle – the only one of its kind in the country. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. If you’ve ever wanted to see New Zealand’s oldest public gardens, today you’re in luck with a visit to Oamaru, known for its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings.

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Christchurch

Your outlook this morning is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Take it in on an optional scenic flight for added perspective of Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Back on the ground, you’re becoming reacquainted with Christchurch on a city tour, your in-the-know guide pointing out the city’s miraculous transformation over the last decade. Local spirit is strong here.   

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Picton

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the black sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore – a sighting is practically guaranteed if you opt for an aerial tour over the coastline. Your onward route skirts the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, before arriving in the pretty seaside fishing village of Picton.

Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton - Wellington

Swap wheels for water aboard the Inter-islander for a cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound, up the Tory Channel and across Cook Strait, from the South Island to the North, navigating a maze of arms and inlets into New Zealand’s cool little capital of Wellington. Bring your stamina for a session at the award-winning (and eye-opening) Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Your final few hours of your Wellington tour should – must – end with a coffee. The city is known for its uber-cool cafés, many of them around Lamberton Quay.

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington

Wellington - Rotorua

Follow the lead of locals along the Kapiti Coast, the traditional summer playground of Wellingtonians. You’ll understand why. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, the largest (and perhaps bluest) of its kind in the country. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth.  Tonight, delve deep into Māori culture and traditions at Te Puia. Witness a traditional welcome, followed by a hangi feast cooked underground, and a  Māori cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.     
  

Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

Explore at your own pace today, but with plenty of tips from your Travel Director. Want a bit of down time? We wouldn’t blame you for simply blissing out at in the steamy thermal springs at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans, but a gorgeous countryside getaway.

Rotorua - Auckland

Set your internal GPS for the Waikato River to enjoy your Waitomo Caves tour. This place is radiant – quite literally. While cruising cavernous limestone waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. The next thing that glows on your horizon is Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city with not one, but two harbours. And plenty of yachts to decorate both, as you’ll see from the lookout at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Auckland - Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to New Zealand’s dramatic Bay of Islands – 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori chiefs. Your guide, likely an ancestor of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house.

Hotel: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms, 2 Nights

Bay of Islands Free Time

If there’s a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy local drops on a wine tour of the region, or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands - Auckland

Today, New Zealand’s most northerly city is well and truly on your radar. Whangarei is a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in a tantalizing snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerizing commute back to Auckland.

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Farewell from Auckland

It’s hard to say goodbye to Auckland – this city is hypnotic. But you have a camera full of New Zealand tour photos to categorize before you get home.  

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland never fails to turn on the charm, as you’ll discover while exploring the city before meeting your fellow adventure-seekers. Arrive at your leisure and peruse waterfront precincts filled with yachts; take a cruise out to the wineries of Waiheke Island; or hit up the CBD to discover local designers. Kiwi creativity is surging.  

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Auckland - Rotorua

Another day in Auckland… things could be worse. After a morning Auckland tour, set your GPS for the Waikato River to Waitomo Caves. Here, your cruise route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth.  Tonight, delve deep into Maori culture and traditions at Te Puia. Your dinner, a hangi cooked underground, is served while you overlook the spectacular geothermal valley. The highlight is a Māori cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.

Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

We’re leaving you up to your own devices today. But have plenty of North Island tour travel tips, depending on your mood. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out in the steamy thermal springs at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans, but a gorgeous countryside getaway. The choice is yours.

Rotorua - Wellington

A staggering 220,000 litres of water thunder over Huka Falls’ 11-metre-high escarpment every second. It creates quite the calamity. From here, the road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, its waters so vivid and blue they resemble an Ice Mint. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington

Wellington - Picton

Forget everything else you have to do today and focus on one thing: getting a cup of Wellington’s amazing coffee. The city is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Wellington tour done and dusted: onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets into the sleepy seaside village of Picton.

Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton - Christchurch

Black is the new black, as you’ll fast discover when walking along the dramatic ink-hued Kaikoura beach. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Talk to your Travel Director for tips on the essential restaurants to dine in tonight – Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Omarama

From its devastating 2010/11 earthquakes, Christchurch has become one of the most forward-thinking cities in the world when it comes to design. Case in point the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. This Christchurch tour is as eye-opening as it is educational. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Choose to take it in from the air for added perspective, on an optional chopper flight around the Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere.   

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Dunedin

Oamaru may have supplied other NZ cities with limestone, but it kept some for itself – and the result is glorious leafy streets with grand 1800s buildings that stand proud before you journey further south toward Dunedin. It’s easy to while away the afternoon in ‘little Edinburgh’s’ atmospheric art-lined alleys. Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Dunedin - Te Anau

There’s no judgement that comes from a sleep-in. But if you have the energy, channel it into exploring Larnach Castle – the only one of its kind in the country. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are replaced by soaring mountains as you weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this.

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Te Anau - Queenstown

There are some travel days that blaze into your memory. Today is one. Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. Gin-clear rivers carve the countryside, with all roads leading to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Cruising this World Heritage listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for dolphins – they’re a common sight here.  

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown Free Time

Queenstown is known as NZ’s adventure capital for good reason. But don’t take our word for it. Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, skidding, twirling and zipping along white-water river. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.     

Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau

As if Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu wasn’t pretty enough, you have a parade of gleaming waterways to keep you company today. After departing the movie-set-perfect streets of Arrowtown, discover Lake Dunstan, surrounded by orchards where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere sparkles like a gem. You don’t get many opportunities in life to land and walk on a glacier. This afternoon is one.

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef/Waiau - Christchurch

Swap white at Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere for green at Hokitika: the pounamu (native jade) found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Farewell from Christchurch

Two islands, two weeks. It’s remarkable what you can see when you have the right people guiding you.  

Christchurch

Since its 2010/11 earthquakes, Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one. Discover how when you step back in time aboard the Christchurch Tram tour, linking some of the city’s most legendary attractions. Expect quite the commentary – your conductors are a hoot.  

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Omarama

Christchurch is not only rebuilding itself after the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes, but is changing the way architects think about design. Case in point the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. After your Christchurch tour, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. If you wish (and you should wish) take it in on an optional scenic flight for added perspective of the Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere.   

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Dunedin

If you’ve ever wanted to see New Zealand’s oldest public gardens, today you’re in luck. Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the Edinburgh of the South: Dunedin. It’s easy to while away the afternoon in the city’s atmospheric art-lined alleys. Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them. Thirsty? Visit Speights Brewery, a New Zealand institution. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Dunedin - Te Anau

There are some days when you’re travelling, that all you want to do is sleep in. Go for it. Or channel your inner royalty on a visit to Dunedin’s grand Larnach Castle – the only one of its kind in the country. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are replaced by soaring mountains as you weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this.

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Te Anau - Queenstown

From the moment you step outside today, nature rules. Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. Gin-clear rivers carve the countryside, with all roads leading to your Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tour. Cruising this World Heritage listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for dolphins – they’re a common sight here.  

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown Free Time

Take today at your own pace. Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, perhaps. There’s a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner.     

Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau

Try and keep count of today’s lakes. Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown appears on the horizon. We know you’ll want to linger in the movie-set-like streets, lined with trees and character-filled boutiques. But Lake Dunstan awaits, as do its orchards. Pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere sparkles like a gem. You don’t get many chances in life to land and walk on a glacier. This afternoon is one. How cool is that?

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef/Waiau - Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika. In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Farewell from Christchurch

New Zealand’s South Island never fails to wow. We hope you find the words to describe this epic New Zealand tour to your family back home. 

Welcome to Christchurch

There are plenty of reasons to arrive in New Zealand’s ‘Garden City’ early, among them the astonishing transformation that has reinvigorated streets since the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes. Explore at your leisure. We recommend jumping aboard the Christchurch Tram – the conductors are a hoot – to glimpse the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Franz Josef/Waiau

When the journey matters just as much as the destination, jump aboard the TranzAlpine train. This scenic spectacular – the start of your tour of the South Island of New Zealand – takes you through tunnels and over viaducts, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys along the way. Arriving in Hokitika, your outlook is all pounamu (native greenstone or jade). In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at the one you love. Around the corner is Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere, compact of snow and ice that shimmers like a gem. Get some perspective on an optional Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere flight tour over this natural wonder – if the weather behaves, you may even get to land on it. Now that’s cool.  

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef/Waiau - Queenstown

If you thought the scenery yesterday was dramatic, wait until you hit the Haast Pass today: over the saddle, the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes spreads before you in a patchwork of blues and greens. First up there’s lovely Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Then Lake Hawea – the colour of an Ice Mint – and Lake Dunstan, where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruits. As tempting as it is to linger in Arrowtown’s movie-set-like streets, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables await in Queenstown.

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown Free Time

Today, choose your own adventure – there are plenty to be had. Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, perhaps. Or discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wine aficionado? Sip your way through surrounding vineyards. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner and a little late-night dancing.     

Queenstown - Te Anau

There are some travel days that defy the imagination. Thankfully, you don’t have to dream about all the natural highs in today’s itinerary – they’re about to become a reality. Your route from the Mirror Lakes through the Cleddau Valley is the entrée to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, a cavernous wonderland where waterfalls thunder from ancient escarpments into inky water where dolphins play. You’ll likely spot them on your Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruise. It’s all part of World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and gin-clear rivers, carving up the countryside. This is your backdrop all the way to Te Anau. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any more magical, glow worm-filled grottoes make an appearance. We highly recommend a visit.

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Te Anau - Dunedin

On the banks of the South Island’s biggest lake, Te Anau turns on the sunrise charms. Enjoy a morning stroll before swapping the forested slopes of Fiordland for the rolling green hills of the Edinburgh of the South. Welcome to Dunedin, a beguiling union of both Māori and Scottish heritage (it was colonised by Scots in the 19th century). While away the afternoon in atmospheric art-lined alleys or sipping a lager or two in Speights Brewery (a national institution). Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins, anyone?

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Dunedin - Omarama

If you didn’t get a taste for Dunedin’s Scottish heritage yesterday, you surely will today. Explore grand Larnach Castle at your leisure – this is, after all, the only one of its kind in the country – then wander the manicured grounds of Otago University or the city’s main George Street for an additional reminder of the city’s ties to Europe. If you’ve ever wanted to see New Zealand’s oldest public gardens, today you’re in luck with a visit to Oamaru, known for its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings.

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Christchurch

Your outlook this morning is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, hemmed by snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. If it seems familiar, that’s because it regularly stars on postcards. Take it in on an optional scenic flight for added perspective of the Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Back on the ground, it’s time to become reacquainted on a Christchurch tour, your in-the-know guide pointing out the city’s miraculous transformation over the last decade. Local spirit is strong here.   

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Picton

Forget powdery white sand – once you’ve seen the dramatic black Kaikoura cove, you’ll be spoilt for all future beach-bashing. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore; a sighting is practically guaranteed if you opt for an aerial tour over the coastline. Your onward route skirts the pink-tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, before arriving in the pretty seaside fishing village of Picton.

Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton - Wellington

Cruising through Queen Charlotte Sound, up the Tory Channel and across Cook Strait is a journey as scenic as it is serene. Today’s chariot, the Interislander, transports you from the South Island to the North, navigating a maze of arms and inlets into New Zealand’s cool little capital of Wellington. We hope you got some rest on your journey, because you’ll need all your stamina to explore the award-winning (and eye-opening) Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand on a Wellington tour. Ask your Travel Director for tips on where to sip wine and coffee tonight – this city is known for its uber-cool cafes, restaurants and bars.
 

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington

Wellington - Rotorua

Follow the lead of locals along the Kapiti Coast, the summer playground of Wellingtonians – for good reason. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, the largest (and perhaps bluest) of its kind in the country. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, delve deep into Maori culture and traditions at Te Puia. Your dinner, a hangi cooked underground, is served while you overlook the spectacular geothermal valley. The highlight is a Māori cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.

Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

Sometimes, the best adventures are those that you have when you least expect them. Like wandering into Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa and falling into a few hours of bliss while soaking in steamy thermal springs. Who knew nature was this relaxing? Or discovering endangered birds on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans, but a gorgeous countryside getaway.

Rotorua - Auckland

Before you reach your final destination, get set to glow on a tour through the Waikato River’s Waitomo Caves. This place is radiant – quite literally. While cruising cavernous limestone waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, appears on the horizon, dazzling with not one, but two harbours. And plenty of yachts to decorate both, as you’ll see from the lookout at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
 

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Farewell from Auckland

The ‘City of Sails’ flutters as if waving goodbye as you make your way home – with two weeks’ worth of extra baggage (all that wine!) and an innumerable number of memories. 

Welcome to Christchurch

Community spirit is strong in Christchurch, as you’ll discover exploring its streets at your leisure. We recommend jumping on the tram to tour Christchurch and discover how the city has rebuilt itself since the 2010/11 earthquakes. Look out for the Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Omarama

More of the city is revealed on a Christchurch tour before the colours of the Canterbury Plains spread before you: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. It’s quite the backdrop for the stone-hewn Church of Good Shepherd. Opt to take in the drama from afar on a scenic flight over Mount Cook and the Southern Alps, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. Could the start of your New Zealand guided tour be any more epic?

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Dunedin

Easing through the Waitaki Valley, you’re en route toward New Zealand’s oldest public gardens. They lie in the pretty town of Oamaru, known for its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings. Architectural drama of a different kind awaits in Dunedin. While away the afternoon in atmospheric art-lined alleys or sipping a lager or two in Speights Brewery (a national institution). Or venture further afield to discover Larnach Castle, which nods to Dunedin’s Scottish link – it’s known as ‘Little Edinburgh’ for a reason. In truth, it could also be known as ‘Little Galapagos’: fur seals and penguins thrive in this part of the South Island. 

Hotel: Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin

Dunedin - Invercargill

Rolling green pastures dotted with wide-eyed sheep are your backdrop to Gore. Fun fact: this is the country music capital of New Zealand. Invercargill is obsessed with something else: motor vehicles. Tributes to speed legends colour the city, telling the story of everyone from Burt Munro to Bill Richardson – his shed full of classic vehicles is the largest private collection of its type in the world.

Hotel: Kelvin Hotel, 2 Nights

Stewart Island

Wild, wide and wonderful, Stewart Island’s rugged coastline cuts a dramatic form in the Southern Ocean. It’s largely untouched – 97% is national parkland – which means that endemic flora and fauna (including a menagerie of birds) thrive here. But don’t take our word for it. Meet the locals on a tour through valleys and bays. Later you may choose to take a cruise out to wildlife sanctuary Ulva Island, or furher explore Stewart Island by E-bike.

Invercargill - Queenstown

You've probably already noticed that there's a lot of farmland here in New Zealand. It's fitting, then, that you meet southern girl Laura, who will introduce you to the sheep farm she was born and raised on. Continue to Queenstown and take today at your own pace.  Continue to Queenstown and take today at your own pace. Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, perhaps, twisting and revving along Queenstown's Shotover River. There's a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Wine aficionado? Sip your way through surrounding vineyards. Tours of the South Island don't get much tastier than this. There's also an afternoon cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown

We wouldn’t blame you for using today to linger by the banks of Lake Wakatipu, marvelling at sky-scraping, snow-tipped Remarkables. But if you want to venture further afield, we can point you in the right direction. A spot of bungy jumping at the place it was born, perhaps? Or an epic journey through Fiordland National Park for a Milford Sound tour. This yawning gorge was carved by waterfalls, wind and weather. It’s the natural playground for dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. There’s a reason why this part of the island has World Heritage status.  

Queenstown - Franz Josef

We know you’ll want to linger in Arrowtown’s movie-set-like streets, lined with trees and character-filled boutiques and restaurants. But the Alpine country of the Southern Lakes is calling, from Lake Dunstan – pause for juicy stone fruit picked fresh from the tree – to oh-so-blue Lake Hawea and lovely Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier, a white-out of snow and ice, shimmers like a gem. Get some perspective on an optional flight over this natural wonder – if the weather behaves, you may even get to land on and tour Franz Josef Glacier. Trips to New Zealand don’t get any cooler than this.   

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef - Punakaiki

There aren’t many communities on the wild West Coast, Hokitika is one, and boy does it make the most of its setting. Wander the windswept coast before discovering the town’s other beauty: pounamu (native greenstone or jade). In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Prepare yourself for Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and blowholes; they owe their existence to the thundering surf that will lull you to sleep.

Hotel: Ocean View Retreat Punakaiki

Punakaiki - Nelson

Sit back and relax – that’s all you have to do today as you ease along the Heritage Highway toward Nelson. Press your nose against the glass as your coach weaves through Buller Gorge – a deep canyon home to New Zealand’s longest swingbridge – and Kahurangi National Park, a place of wild rivers, high plateaus, alpine herb fields and coastal forests.

Hotel: The Rutherford Hotel, 2 Nights

Nelson

Sleep in or work up a sweat – today is completely at your leisure. We have a few ideas up our sleeve, of course. Lace up your hiking shoes and head off on a bushwalk, or sit back on a boat and soak up the silence of Abel Tasman National Park. This pocket in the north of the island inspires calm, its golden beaches framed by sculpted granite cliffs that all unite to create one of the country’s most legendary coastal tracks. 

Nelson - Wellington

Swap wheels for water aboard the Inter-islander for a cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound, up the Tory Channel and across Cook Strait, from the South Island to the North, navigating a maze of arms and inlets into New Zealand’s cool little capital of Wellington. Bring your appetite – the city is known for its oh-so-cool restaurants and bars. Ask us for tips before your  day in Wellington  kicks off tomorrow.  

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington, 2 Nights

Wellington

After a strong coffee – take your pick of Wellington cafes; they’re all excellent – it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stroll through Te Papa, the city’s mindboggling museum, or tour Parliament. Peter Jackson fans will have their sights set firmly on a Lord of the Rings movie tour or visit to Weta Workshop, where special-effects wizards work their magic creating goblins and dinosaurs for blockbuster films. It’s a bit like heaven for movie geeks.     

Wellington - Napier

After a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier completely rebuilt itself in just two years. The end result is architectural Nirvana, a city home to the world’s greatest concentration of Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical buildings, in a gelato of colours and forms. If these walls could talk… instead, get the lowdown from your in-the-know local guide on a Napier tour. 

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Napier - Rotorua

The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, the largest (and perhaps bluest) of its kind in the country – it feeds thundering Huka Falls, which you’ll hear well before you see. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, Maori culture and traditions are in the spotlight at Te Puia. Your journey starts with a guided tour including the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute, followed by a hangi dinner overlooking the geothermal valley, and a Māori cultural performance in the meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.

Hotel: Sudima Lake Rotorua, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

Today is Rotorua tour day of many decisions, but with plenty of tips available from your Travel Director. Want a bit of down time? We wouldn’t blame you for simply blissing out at in the steamy thermal springs at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Soak your travel weary limbs, or have a masseuse treat your muscles to a makeover. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery to see how these endangered animals are cared for.  Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. 

Rotorua - Auckland

From New Zealand’s longest waterway, the Waikato River, to its largest city: welcome to Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’. You’ll understand how it got its moniker when you glimpse yachts gliding around its two harbours. But today your sights are firmly set on the city’s other love: rugby. As part of your Auckland tour you’re kicking about at the interactive All Blacks Experience. You’re serenaded with a performance of the haka, before journeying through the sporting team’s remarkable history via various displays and presentations.  
 

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Auckland - Bay of Islands

140 – that’s how many droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea comprise the Bay of Islands, your tour destination de jour. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori chiefs. Your guide, perhaps a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house.

Hotel: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms, 2 Nights

Bay of Islands

If there’s a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy local drops on a wine tour of the region, or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands - Auckland

For a little more northern exposure, make your way to Whangarei, the island’s most northerly outpost and a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerizing commute back to Auckland.

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Farewell from Auckland

Over three weeks, we hope you’ve packed your address book with the names of new friends and your camera with photos of New Zealand’s most inspiring attractions. But at the end of the day, it’s the memories that will fuel your flight home. Trips to New Zealand don’t get any more epic than this.  
 

Welcome to Christchurch

You’ll want to arrive early to see just how Christchurch has transformed itself since the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes. The best way to do this? Aboard the city’s tram. On its Christchurch tour, the historic tram loops past important historic attractions as well as some new ones, like the Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. Your conductors provide on-board commentary – they’re a hoot.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch

Christchurch - Omarama

Day two of your tour of the South Island of New Zealand sees you step out with your guide for a deeper dive into ‘The City of Gardens’ before traversing the colourful Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and wildflower-strewn meadows. It’s quite the backdrop for the stone-hewn Church of Good Shepherd. Opt to take in the drama from the air on a scenic flight over Mount Cook and the Southern Alps, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Omarama - Dunedin

Easing through the Waitaki Valley, you’re en route toward New Zealand’s oldest public gardens. They lie in the pretty town of Oamaru, known for its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings. Architectural drama of a different kind awaits in Dunedin. The afternoon is yours to while away. Perhaps sipping a lager or two at Speights Brewery (a national institution). Or venturing further afield to discover Larnach Castle (the only one of its kind in the country), or cruising to spot fur seals and penguins. Trips to New Zealand don’t get much more diverse than this.   

Hotel: Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin

Dunedin - Invercargill

If you’ve got an odd urge to listen to twanging Slim Dusty tunes while traversing rolling green pastures en route to Gore, you’re not alone. Fun fact: this is the country music capital of New Zealand. Invercargill is obsessed with something else: motor vehicles. Tributes to speed legends colour the city, telling the story of everyone from Burt Munro to Bill Richardson – his shed full of classic vehicles is the largest private collection of its type in the world.

Hotel: Kelvin Hotel, 2 Nights

Stewart Island

The ferry ride out to Stewart Island is wild, wide and wonderful. When you arrive, you’re welcomed by the country’s southernmost community. It’s largely untouched – 97% is national parkland – which means that endemic flora and fauna (including a menagerie of birds) thrive here. But don’t take our word for it. Meet the locals on a South Island tour through valleys and bays and out to avian heaven at Ulva Island. Or, jump on an e-bike for a little pedal power and to discover hidden nooks at your leisure. Because some adventures are those that are not planned.   
 

Invercargill - Queenstown

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand for good reason. If you’d like to discover why, we can point you in the direction of the world’s first bungy jump, the Shotover Jet to speed along the Shotover River, or 4WDs to explore Skippers Canyon. But there are also plenty of Queenstown tour alternatives for gourmands and sybarites. Like postcard-worthy vineyards, onsen hot pools with a view, and Lake Wakatipu walking trails. Speaking of which, there’s also an afternoon cruise across the lake aboard historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner. The choice is yours.      

Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights

Queenstown Free Time

You clearly need more than one day to appreciate Queenstown and its surrounds. And when we say surrounds, we mean Milford Sound. Today, sign up to dive deep into this yawning gorge within World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park – it’s within easy reach of your base, and is best explored on an optional South Island tour that sees you jumping aboard boat to cruise the mirror-like waterway. Don’t be surprised if you see dolphins and seals playing in the wake of waterfalls. 

Queenstown - Franz Josef

Arrowtown found its riches in gold, its residents building stately homes – now filled with boutiques and restaurants – that still line the street to this day. It’s a bit like stepping onto a movie set. Around the next ben is the Alpine countryside of the Southern Lakes, from Lake Dunstan, where you’ll refuel on stone fruit picked fresh from the tree, to oh-so-blue Lake Hawea and lovely Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier shimmers like a gem. Get some perspective on an optional Franz Josef flight tour – if the weather behaves, you may even get to land on it. New Zealand tours don’t get much cooler than this.   

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)

Franz Josef - Punakaiki

Wandering Hokitika’s windswept shore on the West Coast feels a bit like you’ve discovered the end of the Earth. The town’s other natural beauty is pounamu (native greenstone or jade). In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; when you find a trinket you like, flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Prepare yourself for Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks and blowholes; they owe their existence to the thundering surf that will lull you to sleep.

Hotel: Ocean View Retreat Punakaiki

Punakaiki - Nelson

Sit back and relax – that’s all you have to do today as you ease along the Heritage Highway toward Nelson. Press your nose against the glass as your coach weaves through Buller Gorge – a deep canyon home to New Zealand’s longest swingbridge – and Kahurangi National Park, a place of wild rivers, high plateaus, alpine herb-fields and coastal forests.

Hotel: The Rutherford Hotel, 2 Nights

Nelson Free Time

Sleep in or work up a sweat – today is completely at your leisure. We have a few ideas up our sleeve, of course. Lace up your hiking shoes and head off on a bushwalk, or sit back on a boat and soak up the silence of Abel Tasman National Park. This pocket in the north of the island inspires calm, its golden beaches framed by sculpted granite cliffs that all unite to create one of the country’s most legendary coastal tracks. 

Nelson - Wellington

You’ll want a window seat for the cruise from the South Island to the North Island aboard the Inter-islander. This spectacle unfolds as you glide through Queen Charlotte Sound, up the Tory Channel and across Cook Strait, navigating a maze of arms and inlets into New Zealand’s cool little capital of Wellington. We’ll gladly point you in the direction of one of the city’s happening restaurants for dinner tonight.

Hotel: Travelodge Wellington, 2 Nights

Wellington Free Time

The best way to start a Wellington day is in one of its cafes. There are too many to count, and all are fab. You’ll need it to fuel your free day, whether that sees you catching up on Māori culture at Te Papa, the city’s mindboggling museum, or perhaps taking a Wellington tour of the Parliament. Peter Jackson fans will have their sights set firmly on a Lord of the Rings movie tour or visit to Weta Workshop, where special-effects wizards work their magic creating goblins and dinosaurs for blockbuster films.  

Wellington - Napier

Napier has a remarkable rebirth story. After it was flattened by an earthquake in 1931, locals rallied together to rebuild it in just two years. They did a rather remarkable job, and now the city is home to the world’s greatest concentration of Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical buildings. Your local guide will give you the architectural lowdown on a Napier tour.

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Napier - Rotorua

Lake Taupo, the largest of its kind in the country, is rather remarkable not only for its blinding blue colour, but also for the fact that it feeds thundering Huka Falls – you’ll hear them before you see them. Nature continues to rule as you arrive in Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, Maori culture and traditions are in the spotlight at Te Puia. Your journey starts with a guided tour including the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute and Pohutu Geyser, followed by a hangi dinner overlooking the geothermal valley, and a Māori cultural performance in the meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.

Hotel: Sudima Lake Rotorua, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

You could spend weeks discovering Rotorua. But you have today, so seize the moment and set out to explore. Your Travel Director can point you in the direction of a kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at the Polynesian Spa. Arguably the best way to understand just how otherworldly your destination is, is from the air. Ask us about a scenic flight.  

Rotorua - Auckland

From New Zealand’s longest waterway, the Waikato River, to its largest city: welcome to Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’. You’ll understand how it got its moniker when you glimpse yachts gliding around its two harbours. But today’s Auckland tour sees your sights set firmly on the city’s other love: rugby. The interactive All Blacks Experience begins with a haka before journeying through the sporting team’s remarkable history.  

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Farewell from Auckland

It’s amazing how much of two attraction-packed islands you can see in 18 days. Provided you have the right people at the helm, and like-minded company, that is.

Welcome to Queenstown

Queenstown deserves its destination crown. And you’ll have plenty of time to explore. Hit us up for dining recommendations.
 

Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Queenstown, 3 Nights

Queenstown & Surrounds

Arriving in New Zealand, the first thing you probably noticed is that there’s a lot of farmland. It’s fitting, then, that one of the first people you’ll meet is southern girl Laura, who will introduce you to the sheep farm she was born and raised on. Your next stop is Arrowtown, a former mining town so dreamy it looks like it has slipped straight from a movie set. Drop in on bijou boutiques, cafés, and bars along the tree-lined promenade. Come dusk, cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw; the only thing more inspiring than the peaks of the Remarkables that surround is the festive atmosphere welcoming you to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a gourmet barbecue at the Colonel’s Homestead awaits.
 

Queenstown Free Time

You clearly need more than one day to appreciate Queenstown and its surrounds. And when we say surrounds, we mean Milford Sound. Today, sign up to dive deep into this yawning gorge within World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park – it’s within easy reach of your base, and is best explored on an optional South Island tour that sees you jumping aboard boat to cruise the mirror-like waterway. Don’t be surprised if you see dolphins and seals playing in the wake of waterfalls. If you like things fast-paced, opt for bungy jumping, jet-boating or sip-lining. You are in the adventure capital of New Zealand, after all

Queenstown - Auckland

Touching down in Auckland, you’ll immediately understand why it’s known as the ‘City of Sails’ – New Zealand’s largest city has two lovely yacht-filled harbours, which you can explore at our leisure this afternoon. 

Hotel: The Grand by SkyCity

Auckland - Rotorua

Today is set to sparkle – quite literally – as thousands of bright green and blue glowworms light up your next destination: the cavernous Ruakuri Cave at Waitomo. From overhead attractions to those below the ground… this evening your Highlight Dinner is prepared in an earthen Hangi at Te Puia. Your meal, succulent meats and vegetables, hot chocolate and steamed pudding, is served while you overlook the spectacular geothermal valley. Cap it off with a moving Māori cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It’s an insightful and fun evening that will surely leave you with a newfound understanding and love for New Zealand.
 

Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 Nights

Rotorua

Cute and cuddly, NZ’s national bird, the kiwi, is also endangered. Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery to learn how breeding programs are helping the population thrive. The natural drama reaches boiling point at Whakarewarewa, a geothermal reserve and the country’s only living Māori village, home to famous Pohutu Geyser and the bubbling beauty of mud pools. You’ll cap off your day joining your Travel Director and companions for a Farewell Dinner at Poco Tapas & Wine, where the menu is designed for sharing.
 

Farewell from Rotorua and Auckland

Short, sweet and packed with highlights – how else to describe this wonderful week? 
 

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland is the kind of place you could lose yourself in for a couple of weeks. Arrive at your leisure and explore hip new waterfront precincts, take a cruise out to the forward-thinking wineries of Waiheke Island, or prepare to meet your fellow travel companions at a welcome function with a few local tipples and canapes, followed by dinner.  And so your NZ tour begins.

Hotel: The Cordis, 2 Nights

Auckland

A little bit of leisure, a little bit of culture – today is one of those days. Sleep in before a peek behind the scenes of racing history on the New Zealand Maritime Museum’s America’s Cup Tour, highlighting Auckland’s heritage of boat-building, and offering a glimpse of one of the world’s only replicas of the America’s Cup. Your Auckland tour guide then takes you around the city, pausing at Bastion Point and the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial for epic photo opportunities over the city’s dual harbour. By now you should have a few ideas for how to spend your afternoon exploring, but if not, ask us for recommendations. We have a little black book full of contacts. 

Auckland - Tauranga

Bet you didn’t know New Zealand is home to horse-racing royalty. The O’Sullivan’s welcome you to their Waikato estate for a country-style Be My Guest lunch in the Red Barn. Expect banter, horse-riding gossip and farm-to-table fare prepared with a lot of love. Venture east to the harbourside city of Tauranga, where you have a free afternoon to tour the Bay of Plenty. If you want to work up a sweat, enlist to climb extinct volcano Mount Mauao, offering dazzling vistas over some of the 140 subtropical islets that dot the coast. We wouldn’t blame you for kicking off your shoes and chilling on the golden sands of the main beach, regularly voted the prettiest in the country.  

Hotel: Trinity Wharf Tauranga

Tauranga - Rotorua

Is there any food more classically New Zealand than the kiwifruit? The town of Te Puke grows the majority of the country’s bounty, and you’ll enjoy a bite that will wake up your tastebuds. The next hot-spot – in every sense of the word – on your NZ holiday is Rotorua. Visit Te Puia to see and support Maori artisans at work, then continue your Rotorua tour at the steamy Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, a staggering valley where geysers pop and thermal springs jettison skywards. Fun fact: this is the only living Maori village in the world. The hot rocks in this pocket of the planet are prefect for cooking your hangi (underground) feast at Te Pā Tū Māori Experience, a bastion for Maori culture. Watch a performance before you dig in to your feast.  

Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 Nights

Rotorua Free Time

Today, choose your own adventure. We have plenty of ideas for the paths you might follow. Optional Rotorua tour sightseeing experiences include a bedazzling show put on by the glowworms of Waitomo Caves, replete with underground waterways and dramatic limestone formations. Or perhaps you’d prefer to zip across Rotorua’s three lakes in an amphibious WWII-era Duck. There’s also the option of relieving NZ holiday-weary limbs in the thermal waters of the Polynesian Spa. The decision is yours.  

Rotorua - Wellington

Say haere ra (goodbye) to Rotorua and hello to an immense amount of water. First stop is the raging rapids of Huka Falls, where 220,000 litres of water barrel over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. You’ll hear them (and perhaps feel the mist on your face) before you see them. Your outlook then unfolds into the dreamy landscape of Lake Taupo, the largest of its kind in the country and with a twinkling, blue-eyed-boy charm. Your Lake Taupo tour sees you traverse the volcanic Central Plateau to NZ’s cool little capital of Wellington, set on a pretty harbour that beckons with too many good restaurants to choose from. Ask us for recommendations, or explore at your leisure. Because every NZ holiday needs a little down-time.

Hotel: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor

Wellington - Blenheim

If you don’t fall in love with Wellington instantly, then you will surely find a spark after visiting Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand – the morning is yours to peruse the jaw-dropping exhibits at your leisure, but be sure to linger at the exhibit highlighting a traditional Maori wharenui (meeting place). Re-join your mates to cruise Cook Strait across tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound. You’re on the South Island now, and dinner reflects the best of Marlborough food and wine. Gourmands, rejoice!

Hotel: Chateau Marlborough

Blenheim - Christchurch

Sperm whales and fur seals are a common sight in Kaikoura – get lucky and you can see them from shore or sign up for a bird’s-eye view on an optional scenic flight over dramatic black beaches framed by turquoise ocean. You won’t be disappointed. The region is also known for its tasty crayfish, and there are plenty of places to sample the wares, whether waterside fish-and-chip shops or legendary food trucks serving buttery crayfish rolls. Think of this as your NZ holiday in a mouthful. Follow the coast and Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, home to some of the country’s most innovative architecture, art institutions and restaurants. We can help you make a booking in any number of the latter.  

Hotel: Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Christchurch - Twizel

From its eye-popping, cardboard-crafted Transitional Cathedral to its gold-clad central library, Christchurch has well and truly rebuilt itself since the 2010/11 earthquakes, setting the bar high for architecture and design across the country. On your Christchurch tour you’ll discover that despite this cosmopolitan culture, South Island locals still cherish a simple life. Prepare yourself for plenty of country swagger over a Be My Guest afternoon tea hosted by Lake Tekapo locals Stan and Angie Taylor at Morelea, their home overlooking the glistening emerald lake. Former farmers, Angie will give a demonstration of her famous  pavlova dessert, and you will hear from Stan about a lifetime spent farming in New Zealand.

Hotel: MacKenzie Country Hotel

Twizel - Dunedin

We’ve got the power – hydro, that is. The Benmore Dam holds back New Zealand’s largest artificial lake, and when the Benmore Power Station was opened in 1965 it was the biggest in the country. Just one of the fun facts you’ll learn on your NZ tour. That should fuel you through to Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and glam limestone buildings, before landing in Dunedin. The afternoon is yours to discover the ‘Edinburgh of the Southern Hemisphere’, whether wandering the manicured grounds of its stately castle, taking a wildlife cruise to spot little penguins, or refuelling at a brewery.

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

Dunedin - Te Anau

From sheep farms to rugged mountains, today is one of diversity. Venture to the South Island's largest lake and the pretty lakeside town of Te Anau.  Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri, home to Pomana Island where native birds are under threat - and your visit is helping to protect them through a community-based conservation project that is also helping to restore native flora.  Stop in some quiet and tranquil spots, soak up the amazing surrounds, spot a few trout, and learn about the unique environment and fascinating history of this unique location among Fiordland National Park.

Hotel: Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas

Te Anau - Queenstown

There aren’t many places in the world that remind you how precious the planet is. Fiordland National Park is one. Your journey toward Milford Sound/Piopiotahi traverses native rainforest, alluvial flats and meadows, with mirrored lakes, thundering waterfalls, dramatic rocky ranges and millennia-old valleys. Your Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tour, cruising through this wild expanse, provides enough drama for an entire travel year. You still have the streets of Queenstown, known as the ‘Adventure Capital of New Zealand’, to explore.

Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Queenstown, 2 Nights

Queenstown

The roll-call of Queenstown activities you could sign-up for today is near endless. Adrenaline-junkies may wish to zip about in the Shotover Jet, which reaches dizzying speeds in the white-water rapids of the Shotover River. Or perhaps get some perspective on a gondola to Bob’s Peak, offering jaw-dropping vistas over the city and the Remarkables, those mountains framing town. Or maybe your Queenstown tour is dedicated to the gorges of Skippers Canyon. If you’re a gourmand at heart, sign up for a Central Otago wine tour, where your day involves sipping your way through award-winning cool-climate wines. Whichever route you take, your day ends on a dreamy TSS Earnslaw cruise across Lake Wakatipu, landing at Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead. 

Queenstown - Franz Josef

From Arrowtown’s tree-lined avenues to Central Otago’s gleaming lakes, nature rules today. Alpine scenery tiers into rainforest along the West Coast of New Zealand, where Thunder Creek Falls and the glacier-studded Mt. Hooker steal the scene. Welcome to your Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere tour, the massif ideally explored on a helicopter flight – conditions pending, you may even be able to land and walk across the ice-fall. The bird’s-eye view reveals the immensity of this gem-like mound of ice.  

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing)

Franz Josef Glacier - Punakaiki

Swap white at Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika. In Maori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved-one. Then steel yourself for the Pancake Rocks and blowholes of Punakaiki, a sliver of South Island geology that is as humbling as it is awe-inspiring
 

Hotel: Ocean View Retreat Punakaiki

Punakaiki - Christchurch

Beer for breakfast? We’ve got you sorted on a morning tour of legendary Monteith’s Brewery. You only live once, right? The best is yet to come – all aboard for the scenic TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch. Travel through tunnels and over viaducts, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys. Your NZ tour arrives in Christchurch just in time for your Farewell Dinner. 

Hotel: Distinction Christchurch Hotel