Australia & New Zealand Grand Explorer

Set out today aboard a luxury 4-wheel drive vehicle to explore some of the many landmarks and sites around Sydney and the Blue Mountain Range.  Begin with a visit to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge before venturing onto a memorable visit to the Wildlife Park.  See the powerful Australian Kangaroo and get up close and personal with some friendly Dingoes – and yes, even pat the cuddly Aussie Koala.  Next it’s off to explore the historic Richmond area before travelling off the beaten path deep into the Blue Mountain Range.  Enjoy a rejuvenating morning tea amongst the natural creatures that live in this bush.  Experience real back country exploration as you view these vistas of magnificent cliffs and canyons of this World Heritage recognized area.  Marvel at the sight of the Three Sisters monolith and the Australian Grand Canyon during your explorations.  Enjoy trekking through the bush before feasting on a scrumptious country style lunch at a local Australian homestead.  Upon completion of your tour a return transfer back to your accommodations is provided.

From modern monuments to historic districts, the Australian capital Sydney boasts a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy including trips to the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.  Try spending some time exploring the Harbour area with its many cafes and gift shops.  Head out on a half day tour or picturesque harbour cruise.  The SmartVisit allows visitors to visit the sight they want to see, on their own schedule.  Ask your Travel Consultant for purchase details.

A private transfer from the Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa, is provided.

Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.

A shared transfer from the Ayers Rock airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.

Head out into the Outback with an expert Australia Guide to explore the most profound and culturally significant monolithic structure in Australia. Departing the resort the tour will travel through the outback landscapes to the entrance of the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. From this point it is only a matter of minutes before the spectra of Uluru rises from the sand dunes to demonstrate its enormity and presence. Within your first step you are presented with a photographic opportunity of this amazing Australian icon. With Uluru looming in front of you, your guide will take you closer towards the base. The closer you wander the more you surrender to the realisation of the sheer size and magnitude of this monolith. As you drive around the base, your guide will take you to the entrance of Mutitjulu Waterhole, a semi-permanent watercourse nestled in the contours of Uluru. Here you will learn the Creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) as well as a number of other stories associated with other prominent Tjukurpa (Dreaming) stories. You will see the rock art of the ancients and learn how Uluru was, and still is, a significant location for teaching young Aboriginal people about their culture. You'll then adjourn to the new Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area where you can marvel at an uninterrupted view of Uluru with Kata Tjuta in the background. A return transfer to your accommodation is provided upon completion of the tour.

Set out this morning bright and early to experience the essence of the word serenity during a visit to one of Australia’s most spiritual landmarks, as you enjoy the sunrise over the monolithic Kata Tjuta.  Upon departing your accommodation notice the mighty rock formation in the distance, as you travel some 40 kilometer across desert landscapes to the foot of this iconic rock structure.  Travel on foot to the best vantage point to marvel at all 36 domed monolithic rocks illuminate as the sun’s powerful morning glow creates rosy coloured patterns across the structures surface.  You’ll then make way to the western side of Kata Tjuta for an opportunity to relax and enjoy an outback picnic breakfast.  Explore the Kata further as you travel to the Walpa Gorge (Walpa meaning Wind) to experience the whistling of the wind through the gorge walls.  This is also an important cultural location where aboriginal men frequent for ceremonial purposes.  You’re experienced and knowledgeable guide will explain the geology of this dynamic area and how it has evolved over millions of years.  Upon completion of the tour you will be returned to your accommodation.

Delicious delicacies and silent serenity best describes this evening Sound of Silence Outback Dinner experience.  Be whisked away to a secluded and specially chosen location shortly before sundown to the solitary sounds of didgeridoo’s echoing across the outback desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés.  Marvel at all the different hues of red and orange as the sun sets below the horizon and the stars begin there dance across the ever-increasingly darkened dance-floor sky, as you feast upon an array of Northern Territorial culinary delights including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads and Aussie deserts.  Allow your guide and resident astronomer to provide color commentary on what is considered by many as one of the world’s best stargazing experiences.  Wind down the evening with a coffee, tea or hot mulled wine before heading back to your accommodation. 

A shared transfer from the Ayers Rock airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.

Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.

A private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel accommodation, or vice versa, is provided for today.

Escape on a journey under the sea during this breathtaking aquatic experience exploring the Outer Great Barrier Reef.  This natural haven is home to various sea-life species which you have the pleasure of viewing and interacting with today.  From the safe and comfortable stable reef platform, swimmers and non-swimmers are provided the perfect home base to start there exploration.  Equip yourself with the provided snorkelling gear and dive right into this underwater adventure.  For land-lovers whom prefer to stay somewhat dryer, take a ride on the semi-submersible sub or marvel at the sea-life from the underwater observatory.  Your meals are taken care of as well including morning tea with some delicious cake selections, afternoon tea, a hot & cold lunch buffet, and some cheese and biscuit during the return journey. 

Departing your accommodation you will travel by mini-coach along with other travellers to visit the rich farming areas toward the World Heritage Listed forest region of the Daintree National Park. Cruise on the mirrored smooth waters of the Daintree River, seeking out the vivid Ulysses Butterfly, Kingfishers and various other wildlife species. The cruise takes you through silent backwaters where crocodiles can normally be seen basking on the muddy banks. Arriving on the northern side of the river, you will now enter the Daintree section of the Wet Tropics World Heritage protected rainforest. Travel up the beautiful Alexandra Range passing through rainforest to wrap up this adventurous day of touring.  Upon completion of the tour a return transfer to your accommodation is provided.

A private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel accommodation, or vice versa, is provided for today.

Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.

A privately driven vehicle will provide you with a transfer between the Domestic Airport and various city based hotels, or vice versa. 

Set out on a shared tour of the surrounding Melbourne area beginning with a visit to a boutique winery which overlooks the Westernport Bay area.  Listen to the colourful tales and stories from your guide regarding the explorers, sealers and whalers who inhabited this fertile land.  Travel to Phillip Island, known as the “wildlife island” for an opportunity to walk amongst the treetops of the Koala Conservation Centre to observe a protected Koala company.  Continue trekking through the nature reserve, exploring the bush and wetlands for habitual wildlife, flora and fauna.   Wildlife sightings include a wide range of birds and one of Australia’s famed marsupials, the Wallaby.  This dynamic location is also renowned for its Penguins which come ashore each evening at dusk from their ocean feedings.  These Penguins walk and talk there way loudly as they make their way through the sand dunes to their burrow nests.  Make use of the boardwalk to snap some up close photos of the Penguins as they march. Enjoy a delicious fish and chip lunch at the Jetty Restaurant in the township of Cowes on Phillip Island.

Set out today on an exploratory journey of the Melbourne surrounding area.  Begin by departing the suburbs en-route to the Westgate Bridge for some spectacular viewing of the Port Phillip Bay area.  From here, you’ll enter the volcanic western plains of Victoria, an area where the first European settlers forged their way as far as the Otway ranges, establishing large agricultural based properties and homesteads to harvest the land and develop the sheep trade industry.  Next, you will head into the Geelong area to marvel at the picturesque waterfront of Corio Bay.  This was an important port area during the famous “gold-rush” era of the 19th century.  Travel across the fertile sheep and dairy farmlands en-route to the cooler temperate rainforests of the Otway Ranges National Park.  Enjoy a delicious, café-style lunch at Port Campbell as the fresh crisp air rises from the southern oceans and fills your lungs with relaxation and rejuvenation.  Travel only a short drive away to the “Shipwreck Coast” where you’ll hear the tales of heroes and follies, outlining the attempt made by captains whom tried navigating this wild coastline, some ending in triumph whilst others…well the proof remains rusting is the ocean sea-bed.  Visit the famed shipwreck site at “Loch Ard” and hear the story of how two survivors struggled ashore amidst the wreckage.  Marvel at the monolithic site of the 12 Apostle Rock formations which occupy this dramatic coastal boardwalk.

Transfer between City/Hotel to Airport with private vehicle and driver.

Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.

A private vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel.

Travel by luxury coach on an unforgettable journey from Queenstown into Milford Sound.  Travel from Queenstown along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and through rolling countryside to Te Anau.  After a short break at Te Anau, continue via the spectacular Milford Road, to Milford Sound.  Board the Milford Mariner for a relaxing cruise of Milford Sound.  The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife.  An on board nature guide provides interpretation in English only.   Experience stunning surroundings at the heart of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. In Maori legend, the fiords were created not by rivers of ice, but by Tu Te Raki Whanoa, a godly figure who came wielding a magical adze uttering incantations. Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is without doubt his finest sculpture. Luxuriant rainforest clings to sheer rock walls washed with waterfalls. In the foreground stands Mitre Peak, dominating the skyline. Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you.   A return transfer by luxury coach to Queenstown is provided.

This Funyak Safari is truly unique; begin by boarding the Dart River Jet boat for an exciting 75 minute ride along this beautiful braided shallow river.  Disembark the Jet Boat and continue this aquatic adventure rafting in and inflatable canoe. After an instructional session, head out and be free to canoe and drift (under the watchful eye of the professional guide) for a spectacular 2 hours downstream, taking in all the awe-inspiring sights found amidst the Dart River’s shimmering channels.  Stop amongst the ancient beech forest to enjoy a wilderness buffet lunch before exploring hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms including the beautiful Rockburn. Continue onward, canoeing downstream to what can only called, Paradise, where a 4WD coach will provide a transfer to Glenorchy, stopping to view the stunning scenery that has many inspired films worldwide. Upon completion of the tour, a return transfer to Queenstown is provided.

Sit back and relax during this short transfer travelling between the airport and hotel, or vice versa.

Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.

A privately driven vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel today.

Set out today on an explorative tour of the renowned Te Puia Thermal Valley accompanied by an experience and informative guide.  Begin with a visit to the New Zealand National Carving and Weaving School to witness the ancient techniques of carving and weaving by the regions most experienced and talented artists.  Next, you’ll visit the award winning interactive galleries featuring an impressive Kiwi bird exhibit whilst hearing the about the ancient myths and fables depicted by the local descendants of this spectacular valley area.  Shortly after, you’ll travel to the popular mud-pools and geyser for some viewing and exploration which is followed by a period of relaxation in preparation for the evening’s festivities.  For local descendants the “Te Po” is an intimate, cultural time for sharing knowledge and enjoying life whilst feasting on local delicacies with friends and family.  This nightly tradition begins at the Te-Heketanga-a-Rangi (the Heavenly Origins) which is an area comprising of twelve monumental carvings with represent the Maori Deities.  According to local Maori tradition, it is an honour to the tribes Mana (or communal standing) to provide guests with a sumptuous banquet of food during the evening hours.  The banquet combines both contemporary cooking techniques with traditional Hangi (or Earth-cooked Oven Cooked) methods.  The Kai (or Food) is placed amongst hot rocks to steam, created an aromatic, smoky flavouring. Following dessert, head out towards the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley to marvel at this illuminated natural attraction.

Experience the spectacular geothermal activity and stunning volcanic landscapes of Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Thermal Valley, during this geothermal exploration tour. Admire the craftsmanship during a visit to the Government Gardens, before a visit to a unique Sulphur Bay. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue and Green Lakes, providing stunning panoramic views of Lake Tarawera and the Mount Tarawera volcano. Witness the volcanic devastation created by the Mount Tarawera eruption of 1886, which is very evident at the Rotorua’s Buried Village. Journey through time and watch the captivating tale of Te Wairoa unfold at the Buried Village Museum and on a guided walk through the excavated sites. Take a walk to a picturesque waterfall set amidst beautiful New Zealand rain-forest. Finish the day with a relaxing walk through the magnificent Redwood Forest. Lunch and refreshments are included.

Enjoy a day trip from Rotorua to Auckland through lush rolling farm landscape to the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Caves. After lunch (own expense) enjoy a guided tour through the galleries and lofty chambers of the Caves. Your tour culminates with a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - lit up by thousands of tiny living lights. View the unique Waitomo glowworms, as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves historical and geological significance.

A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the Auckland Airport and Hotel.