Your adventure begins in New Zealand, immersing you in Maori culture, geothermal wonders, mountain lakes, and glaciers, before continuing on to Australia. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant city of Sydney, the striking red outback at Uluru, and finish your journey in tropical Cairns.
Your adventure begins in New Zealand, immersing you in Maori culture, geothermal wonders, mountain lakes, and glaciers, before continuing on to Australia. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant city of Sydney, the striking red outback at Uluru, and finish your journey in tropical Cairns.
Comprehensive package of excursions:
You have the option to add extra nights in the various cities you visit if, for example, you’d like to spend more days exploring on your own. Please get in touch with our travel specialists with your specific requests for your tour.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure Down Under, exploring the very best of both New Zealand and Australia.
Your journey begins in Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island, where you’ll discover a vibrant city atmosphere, a scenic waterfront, and breath-taking viewpoints. From here, you’ll travel on to Rotorua, famous for its bubbling geysers, natural hot springs, and captivating Maori traditions.
Upon arrival on the South Island, you’ll pick up your hire car and set off at your own pace through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Look forward to soaking up the charm of Christchurch, marvelling at the dramatic vistas of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, and spending time in and around Queenstown, perhaps even taking a trip to Milford Sound. The tour continues to the Franz Josef Glacier, and winds through awe-inspiring mountain passes and wild coastal stretches, before wrapping up your New Zealand adventure in Christchurch.
Your Australian adventure starts in iconic Sydney, home to the famous Opera House, the vibrant harbourfront, and golden beaches. The tour then takes you right into the heart of the outback, heading to Uluru, where sunrise and sunset over the sacred rock and a walk around Kata Tjuta await.
Your journey concludes in tropical Cairns, the perfect base for exploring the world’s oldest rainforest in Daintree and the stunning Great Barrier Reef.
This is a tour brimming with contrasts – the freedom to explore at your own pace, breath-taking natural wonders, fascinating cultures, and unforgettable moments all await you.
Your grand adventure Down Under begins today. You’ll depart from your selected airport, with one or more connecting flights along the way, before finally reaching your destination.
Kia ora – welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand!
From the moment you set foot in the airport, you’ll be greeted with the warm “kia ora”, a traditional Māori greeting meaning “hello” or “good health”. It’s a phrase you’ll hear time and time again as you travel through this welcoming land. Aotearoa is the original Māori name for New Zealand, and throughout the country, you’ll notice both English and Māori names used side by side.
After your flight, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel – the journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) is a vibrant city, alive with a rich tapestry of cultures. Its foundation lies in Māori heritage, but you’ll also sense strong influences from Polynesia, Asia, and Europe. Straddling the sweeping harbours of Waitematā and Manukau, Auckland offers a unique blend of urban life and stunning natural beauty. Home to approximately 1.7 million people—nearly a third of the country’s population—Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” thanks to the countless yachts that dot its coastline.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. We recommend a visit to Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant waterfront district bustling with cafés, bars, and restaurants, all offering gorgeous views over the water.
Be sure to get plenty of daylight and drink lots of water, as this helps your body recover from jet lag more quickly.
To give you the very best introduction to Auckland, we’ve included a three-hour city tour accompanied by a local guide, who will showcase some of the city’s highlights and offer fascinating insights into its culture and history.
Your morning will begin with a hotel pick-up. Along the way, you’ll pass the bustling Queen Street, the university, and Auckland’s oldest park, The Domain, which is beautifully laid out in and around an ancient volcanic crater.
The tour then continues through the vibrant district of Ponsonby, renowned for its historic villas and creative atmosphere. Next, you’ll cross the impressive Harbour Bridge and head to North Shore, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach with views of Waitematā Harbour and the iconic volcanic island, Rangitoto.
One of the highlights of the tour is Devonport, a charming, older neighbourhood celebrated for its beautiful architecture and stunning views from the area’s extinct volcanoes. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas over both the city and its harbour.
The final stop on your city tour is Westhaven Marina, one of the southern hemisphere’s largest marinas, where the Auckland skyline and Harbour Bridge provide a striking backdrop to the forest of masts.
You’ll return to your hotel around midday, and the rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps you’d like to visit the Sky Tower, which, at 328 metres, is New Zealand’s tallest free-standing building. From the observation deck, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and the bay.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Sky Tower offers thrilling experiences such as the SkyWalk, where you stroll around a narrow platform almost 200 metres above the ground, or the SkyJump – a controlled free fall from the tower.
For a more laid-back evening, savour your dinner at the rotating Orbit 360° restaurant, which gently revolves to give you panoramic views across Auckland.
If you’re keen for more, you can extend your city tour with a wine tour including lunch, or discover the city from the water on an atmospheric dinner cruise. Check out our optional tours below.
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Auckland. Set out on new adventures or simply revisit a favourite spot from yesterday – the day’s itinerary is entirely up to you.
Auckland is home to a wealth of fascinating museums. In Domain Park, you’ll find the Auckland War Memorial Museum (Tāmaki Paenga Hira), featuring exhibitions on the nation’s history and Māori culture. Art enthusiasts should make time for the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, while those curious about maritime heritage can head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum at Viaduct Harbour to discover the country’s nautical past, spanning everything from Polynesian canoes to modern America’s Cup racers.
The city is built on the remnants of over 50 extinct volcanoes, now lush green hills offering sweeping views. Among the most popular is Mount Eden (Maungawhau), where you can take in panoramic vistas across Auckland. If you fancy a swim, Mission Bay is a lovely beach conveniently close to the city centre.
Auckland also boasts an excellent ferry network that links the city to nearby islands. Waiheke Island (Te Motu-arai-roa) is a popular choice, known for its vineyards and beautiful beaches – you can travel there independently or opt for a guided excursion with lunch at a winery. Alternatively, consider a full-day tour to the scenic Coromandel Peninsula (Te Tara-o-te-Ika-a-Māui).
Today’s itinerary features some of New Zealand’s most unique experiences: a visit to Hobbiton and the geothermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu.
From Auckland, you’ll travel by minibus with a local guide, winding your way through lush scenery towards Rotorua and the Waikato region, renowned as one of the country’s largest agricultural areas. Here, you’ll find the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, famously used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
On a guided tour lasting around 2½ hours, you’ll discover more than 40 hobbit holes and hear fascinating stories from behind the scenes of filming. The tour concludes with a refreshing drink at The Green Dragon Inn, an atmospheric pub crafted in true hobbit style.
There will be time for lunch and coffee breaks along the way (at your own expense), before the tour continues to Wai-O-Tapu. Here, the incredible forces of nature have shaped a vivid and mesmerising geothermal landscape with sights such as the Champagne Pool, crater lakes, and billowing sulphuric steam emerging from the earth. It feels almost otherworldly, and the distinctive scent of sulphur is very much part of the experience.
Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Rotorua (Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe), where the evening is yours to explore the town at your own pace.
Rotorua is renowned for its vibrant Maori culture, its picturesque location beside the lake that shares its name, and the surrounding landscape, famed for its geothermal wonders. Today is yours to spend as you please, with a wealth of different experiences to choose from.
If wildlife piques your interest, make your way to The National Kiwi Hatchery, just a 10-minute drive from the centre. Here, you’ll discover New Zealand’s elusive national bird and learn about the vital conservation work taking place behind the scenes.
For something indulgent, treat yourself to a visit to the Polynesian Spa or Wai Ariki Hot Springs, where you can relax in naturally heated pools overlooking the lake. It’s a good idea to book your session in advance.
If you’re curious about the geothermal landscape, you might like to visit Hell’s Gate, where you can experience bubbling springs, clouds of steam, and even try the famous mud spa. Alternatively, join the ‘Rotorua’s Soul’ excursion, which includes a visit to Te Puia Thermal Park to witness the awe-inspiring Pōhutu geyser, enjoy panoramic views across Blue Lake and Green Lake, and stroll through the majestic Redwood Forest.
In the evening, you have the option to join an optional tour where you will visit a local Māori community. Here, you’ll gain insight into their traditions and history, enjoy a cultural performance, and end the evening with a traditional hangi dinner, cooked in an earth oven heated by hot stones.
Today, it’s time to bid farewell to Rotorua and the North Island. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport, where you’ll catch your flight south to Christchurch (Ōtautahi).
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island, home to around 400,000 people. The city was seriously affected by an earthquake in 2011 but has since risen again in remarkable fashion, now standing as an inspiring example of modern urban renewal. Historic charm meets contemporary architecture amidst lush surroundings, with countless parks and gardens—such as Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens—as well as the meandering Avon River, earning the city its nickname, ‘The Garden City.’
Upon arrival, you’ll collect your hire car at the airport and drive to your motel in town, a journey of around half an hour. The remainder of the day is yours to explore as you wish.
A wonderful way to round off the day is with dinner along the Avon River in the area surrounding The Terrace and Oxford Terrace. Here you’ll find a vibrant district brimming with modern restaurants, cafés, and bars, many offering outdoor seating with views of the water. Close by is the Riverside Market, an inviting food market featuring small eateries, specialty shops, and local delicacies.
You now have two full days to explore Christchurch and its surroundings at your own pace. The city and nearby areas offer a wealth of opportunities, whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or wildlife.
If you’d like an introduction to the city, you can book an optional guided city tour, but you can just as easily set out and discover it on your own. A ride on the historic tram, which loops through the centre, is a charming way to see the city’s main attractions. Alternatively, you could view the city from the water on a romantic trip aboard a gondola-style boat, gently punted along the Avon River.
A stroll through the botanical gardens is highly recommended, and right next door you’ll find the Canterbury Museum, where you can delve into the region’s history, from Māori culture and European discoveries to natural sciences and Antarctic expeditions. If you have an interest in art, be sure to visit the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, which showcases both New Zealand and international contemporary art.
Christchurch is also a superb base for day trips in the region. Hanmer Springs is famed for its thermal pools and laid-back atmosphere, while Akaroa entices visitors with its French charm and beautiful surroundings. From Akaroa, you can take a nature cruise and, if you’re lucky, spot the rare Hector’s dolphin, seals, and little blue penguins. Further north lies Kaikoura, renowned for its whale watching tours, where you stand a good chance of seeing sperm whales and more in their natural habitat.
We recommend booking tickets for boat trips in Akaroa and Kaikoura in advance, as these spots are often in high demand.
Your road trip adventure truly begins today, with breathtaking natural wonders awaiting you.
Setting out from Christchurch, you’ll drive through the rolling Canterbury Plains and onwards towards the highlands and the snow-capped Southern Alps. A highly recommended stop is at Lake Tekapo (Takapō), famed for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, and the charming stone Church of the Good Shepherd.
From here, your journey continues along the shores of Lake Pukaki (Pūkahaki), where the impressive sight of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook (Aoraki), gradually appears on the horizon at 3,724 metres.
You’ll arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you have the rest of the day at your leisure. One of the highlights is a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, named after the legendary New Zealand mountaineer. Alongside Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, Hillary became the first person ever to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953. Hillary had strong connections to the Mount Cook region, where he spent time training and scaling several of New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Mount Cook Village is a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike, with a variety of trails to suit every level of ability. Options include the Kea Point Track (easy, approx. 3 km), the Tasman Glacier View Track (easy, approx. 2.5 km), and the Hooker Valley Track (easy, approx. 10 km). Please note that sections of the Hooker Valley Track are currently closed due to erosion and the construction of a new suspension bridge, with works expected to continue until the end of 2026.
We recommend visiting the national park’s information centre upon arrival, where you can get the latest updates on routes, weather conditions, and safety.
In the evening, you may be lucky enough to experience one of the world’s clearest night skies—either on your own or as part of a guided stargazing tour in the Aoraki/Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.
Remember to fill up the car and stock up on supplies before entering the national park, as availability is limited and prices are higher once inside.
Driving distance: Christchurch – Aoraki/Mt Cook approximately 330 km
Drive time: around 4.5 hours (without stops)
Before leaving the Mount Cook area, you might like to consider booking an optional boat trip on the Tasman Lake. Here, you’ll come up close to small icebergs and the Tasman Glacier – the largest glacier in New Zealand.
You also have the chance to see the region from above with a helicopter flight, weather permitting. We recommend booking this unforgettable experience locally upon arrival.
As hard as it may be to say farewell to the majestic scenery, a wealth of new experiences awaits you on the road to Queenstown.
The route takes you via Twizel, where a stop at High Country Salmon is highly recommended. Here, you can savour freshly caught salmon or simply relax and enjoy the view over the fishery.
From here, your journey will continue through the golden highlands and past Omarama, before the road winds its way over the impressive Lindis Pass – a sweeping mountain range with gentle hills stretching as far as the eye can see.
Your next stop could be Cromwell, nestled in the heart of one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Heading further south, you’ll pass through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where the river carves its way through striking rock formations. Along the way, you can drop in at the Goldfields Mining Centre to try your hand at gold panning, or stop at the Kawarau Bridge, famed for daring bungy jumps.
As you approach Queenstown (Tāhuna), the landscape unfolds before you and the deep blue waters of Lake Wakatipu (Wakatipu Waimāori) reveal themselves at the foot of the iconic Remarkables mountains.
Driving distance: Aoraki/Mt Cook – Queenstown approx. 260 km
Driving time: approx. 3.5 hours (without stops)
Queenstown is renowned as New Zealand’s adventure capital, and if you’re a thrill-seeker, there’s hardly a better place to be. This is where the world’s first commercial bungy jump took place, and today you can try everything from jet boating and river rafting to skydiving and paragliding. But the town offers much more than just adrenaline rushes. You’ll also discover tranquillity amid breath-taking scenery, exceptional wines, and a wealth of culinary delights – in short, there’s something here for everyone.
The town centre is charming and easy to navigate, with little shops, galleries, and a wide range of restaurants clustered around lively Shotover Street. A stroll along the waterfront at Marine Parade comes highly recommended, and you’ll also find the tourist information centre here, ideal for gathering inspiration for adventures in and around the area.
A classic experience is to take the historic gondola up to Bob’s Peak. From here, you’re treated to an incredible view over Lake Wakatipu and the mountains beyond, where The Remarkables dominate the skyline. At the top, you can enjoy lunch or have a go on the fun luge track – a sort of wheeled toboggan.
If you’re keen to explore the great outdoors on foot, you can follow the walking track from Bob’s Peak to Ben Lomond Saddle, or even venture all the way to the summit of Ben Lomond itself. This self-guided hike promises breathtaking views over Queenstown’s alpine scenery. The round trip from Bob’s Peak to the summit and back takes approximately five to six hours. If you set off from the town centre, allow an extra two to three hours. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, dress appropriately for changing weather, and pack plenty of water and snacks. Do keep in mind that weather conditions in the mountains can shift rapidly.
Another unforgettable experience is a visit to Milford Sound, where you’ll cruise along the stunning fjord, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Many travellers describe this as one of the absolute highlights of New Zealand. If you’re driving yourself, we recommend booking cruise tickets in advance as it’s a long day out and spaces fill up quickly. Alternatively, you can opt for an organised tour with a guide and transport included, allowing you to simply sit back and soak up the spectacular scenery.
In addition, we offer a range of optional tours that you can add to your experience, tailored to your individual interests.
Today, the journey continues to Franz Josef, renowned for its nearby glacier of the same name. The route takes you through some of the South Island’s most breathtaking scenery, with majestic mountains, serene lakes, and lush rainforest. There are plenty of perfect opportunities to stop along the way.
If you choose the scenic Crown Range Road, you could take a break at the historic Cardrona Hotel, home to one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic pubs. Another popular stop is Wanaka, where you’ll find the famous tree in the lake, known as That Wanaka Tree. The town also boasts a charming lakefront promenade and excellent cafés – ideal for a relaxing pause.
As you pass through Mount Aspiring National Park, you might enjoy a short walk along the Blue Pools Track, which leads you through beech forest to crystal-clear, turquoise pools. A little further on, you can stop to capture a photo at Thunder Creek Falls, a 28-metre-high waterfall surrounded by lush woodland.
Your drive continues across the Haast Pass towards the wild and verdant west coast, where the scenery grows greener and more dramatic. Before arriving in Franz Josef, we recommend a stop at Lake Matheson (Te Ara Kairaumati), famous for its stunning reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on the lake’s surface. You’ll also find the Te Kopikopiko o te Waka viewpoint here, which on a clear day offers spectacular views of the Fox Glacier.
Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Franz Josef, a small town set amidst lush rainforest and dramatic mountain scenery. The glacier here was named in 1865 by the geologist Julius von Haast, in honour of the Austrian Emperor Franz Josef I.
Driving distance: Queenstown – Franz Josef approx. 350 km
Driving time: approx. 5 hours (without stops)
The Franz Josef Glacier has been shaped over tens of thousands of years, its origins in snow that has gathered high in the mountains and, over time, compressed into solid ice. The glacier is also known by its Māori name, Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, which translates as Hine Hukatere’s Tears. According to legend, Hine Hukatere lost her beloved in the mountains, and her tears froze to become the very glacier you see today.
Like many glaciers around the world, Franz Josef has dramatically retreated due to climate change, and it’s no longer possible to walk straight onto the ice from the valley floor. However, you can still get remarkably close to the glacier from dedicated viewpoints, or take in the breathtaking scenery on a helicopter flight.
The town of Franz Josef offers a cosy selection of cafés, boutique shops, galleries, and the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you can discover more about the region’s wildlife—including the rare rowi kiwi.
This area is blessed with several picturesque walking tracks. The classic Franz Josef Glacier Walk leads you to a superb viewing point with panoramic vistas over the glacier. The route is easily accessible, being roughly 1.5 km round trip from the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, situated about 4.5 km from the town. Another short jaunt is the Peters Pool Track, where after a brief stroll, you’ll reach a small lake that, on clear days, beautifully reflects the mountains and glacier.
If you want to get even closer, you can join a guided walk through the valley, or opt for a helicopter tour that lands directly on the glacier itself. For a more hands-on adventure, the popular heli-hike combines an exhilarating helicopter ride with a guided trek across the ice, led by an experienced guide.
Today, you’ll make your way back towards Christchurch. Driving north along the West Coast, the road meanders through lush rainforest and passes by quaint villages.
A popular place to stop is Hokitika, famous for its crafts and jewellery made from the greenstone pounamu (jade). You might also like to take a short break on the beach and savour the views of the wild Tasman Sea.
From here, your journey will continue towards Kumara Junction, where you’ll turn inland through Arthur’s Pass National Park. The scenery shifts dramatically, with the rainforest giving way to alpine shrubland and steep mountains. At the Otira Viaduct Lookout, you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of the impressive viaduct as it winds through the valley. Keep an eye out for kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, which is often spotted here.
Arthur’s Pass Village is an ideal spot to pause for lunch. If time permits, enjoy a short walk to Devils Punchbowl Falls, an awe-inspiring waterfall tumbling 131 metres.
Further east lies Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti), where giant limestone boulders are scattered across the landscape. This place exudes a magical atmosphere and has been featured in films such as The Lord of the Rings and Narnia.
From Castle Hill, your journey will continue through the farmlands of Canterbury, before you arrive in Christchurch.
Driving distance: Franz Josef – Christchurch approx. 385 km
Driving time: approx. 6 hours (without stops)
It’s time to bid farewell to New Zealand and continue your adventure in Australia. You’ll drop off your car at Christchurch airport before catching your flight to Sydney.
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. If your room isn’t ready yet, your luggage can be safely stored at the hotel while you start exploring the city.
We highly recommend making your way to Sydney’s vibrant waterfront. Here, you can marvel at Utzon’s world-famous opera house, which, from the right angle, is beautifully framed by the Sydney Harbour Bridge—the world’s largest steel arch bridge. Since 2007, the opera house has been celebrated as one of the world’s most iconic architectural masterpieces and is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list.
Sydney is built around the world’s largest natural harbour, and there’s always something going on out on the water. Ferries shuttle people between the suburbs and the city centre, water taxis zip to and fro, sailing boats glide past with the wind in their sails—and it’s not uncommon to spot large cruise ships coming in alongside the quay.
Settle in at a café, order a flat white, and soak up the atmosphere as you slowly adjust to the buzz of city life.
Sydney wakes up early, and the streets quickly come alive with activity. This morning, you’ll set off on an exciting city tour, taking in many of the city’s main highlights. During your tour, you’ll pass through the historic district of The Rocks, lively Darling Harbour, bustling Chinatown, the iconic Opera House, and the world-famous Bondi Beach. As you go, your guide will shed light on the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, providing you with a great overview so you can decide later which places you’d like to revisit.
Please note that you’ll need to make your own way to the starting point of the tour. The address will be listed on your voucher.
If you’re keen to experience even more, you have the option to book additional excursions today. Perhaps a guided tour of the Opera House, or the exhilarating harbour bridge climb on Sydney Harbour Bridge, from where the views over the harbour are truly spectacular. It’s a good idea to book these tours in advance as spots are often in high demand.
Later on, you might like to explore some of the city’s museums. The Museum of Sydney is an interactive museum located on the very site of the governor’s first house. The Australian Museum is another fascinating choice, where you can delve into the stories of the country’s Indigenous peoples and their culture.
In the evening, make your way to King Street Wharf, home to some of Sydney’s finest restaurants.
Today is yours to spend as you wish, and Sydney offers a wealth of experiences to explore.
If you’re interested in beach life, hop on the ferry from Circular Quay and you’ll be at Manly Beach in just 18 minutes. Here, you’ll find cosy cafés and restaurants as well as excellent facilities for a swim. Bondi Beach is another iconic option. From here, you can follow the picturesque Bondi to Coogee Walk, a six-kilometre coastal path that winds its way through parks, small beaches, and scenic viewpoints.
You may also wish to immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history. A visit to Hyde Park Barracks, built in the early 1800s for convicts, offers a compelling glimpse into Sydney’s colonial past. The building is part of the UNESCO world heritage list, along with other historic prisons in Australia. Don’t forget to step inside the Queen Victoria Building, which now houses an elegant shopping centre.
The Rocks is always a delightful place to wander. This is where the first Europeans settled in 1788, and today the area buzzes with life, boasting cafés, pubs, and small markets.
If you fancy venturing a little further afield, you can join a guided excursion – for example, to the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, or Sydney’s northern beaches. We recommend booking these in advance, as places tend to sell out quickly.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Sydney and driven to the airport, where you’ll catch a flight into the Outback – the red heart of Australia. Upon arrival, a complimentary shuttle bus (no need to book in advance) will take you to the small town of Yulara, which serves as the area’s hub for visitors.
The town boasts hotels, a supermarket, an art gallery, and a range of free activities. You might, for example, enjoy didgeridoo performances or discover how the Aboriginal people have sourced food and medicine from the bush for thousands of years.
Later in the day, you’ll set off on a sunset tour overlooking Uluru. It’s a truly magical experience to watch the gigantic rock gradually change colour from a rusty red to a radiant orange, before finally standing as a shadowy silhouette against the fading light.
Be sure to look up at the night sky as well. The stars above the outback are among the clearest you’ll find anywhere on earth, thanks to the almost total absence of light pollution.
You’ll need an early start today. Yesterday you witnessed the sunset, and now you’ll have the chance to watch the sun rise over Uluru. Seeing the outlines of the rock gently emerge in the first light is an experience you’ll never forget.
Your tour continues from Uluru to Kata Tjuta, located around 50 km to the west. The name means “many heads”, referring to the 36 rounded rock formations that rise dramatically from the landscape. The area is sacred to the Anangu people, but fortunately, several stunning sections are open to visitors. A popular walk leads through Walpa Gorge, where your guide will talk about the area’s fascinating geology as well as the deep connection the local Indigenous people have to this remarkable place.
The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Alternatively, you might opt for a special evening excursion, where a dinner beneath the stars is beautifully combined with local culture and the wonders of nature.
Today, your tour will continue back to the east coast – this time heading to northern Queensland. The complimentary shuttle bus will take you from your hotel to the airport, where you’ll catch your flight to Cairns.
The contrasts could hardly be greater: after days spent in the red desert, you’ll now arrive in the tropical north, where Cairns serves as the gateway to both the world’s oldest rainforest and the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. The city itself is charming and laid-back, with a great selection of shops and restaurants.
A highly recommended activity is to visit the man-made lagoon in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim – it’s a popular meeting spot for both locals and visitors alike.
Please note that flights from Uluru to Cairns often have a connecting flight along the way. For a supplementary price, it is possible to fly direct on certain days. Speak to your travel specialist for further details and prices.
You will have the next two days free to explore the tropical delights of northern Queensland. The region is brimming with things to see and do, and we recommend booking any excursions in advance, as places are often in high demand.
To the north of Cairns lies the Daintree Rainforest, which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. The rainforest is thought to be over 135 million years old, making it the oldest in the world. Here, the jungle meets the sea at Cape Tribulation – renowned as one of the most breathtaking and unique natural areas in Australia. The contrast of lush, dense jungle and pristine white sandy beaches creates a magical setting, making this the perfect spot for a day trip.
Another popular excursion is to the charming mountain village of Kuranda. You’ll ascend through the rainforest on the scenic Kuranda Railway and return on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding over the treetops for spectacular views of the landscape. In Kuranda itself, you can browse cosy markets, quaint cafés, and galleries before heading back to Cairns.
We highly recommend taking a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef—an absolute must when visiting this part of the world. There are plenty of ways to discover the wonders beneath the waves. You could snorkel among vibrant fish, dive down to the spectacular coral formations, or opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour, admiring the reef without getting wet. However you choose to experience it, coming face to face with this extraordinary natural wonder is truly unforgettable.
It’s time to say farewell to Australia. You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport, where your journey home begins. Your flight will take you to your selected airport, with one or more connecting flights along the way.
You will arrive back in Europe with your backpack brimming with unforgettable experiences and memories from your adventure in New Zealand and Australia.
|
Millie’s passion for travel sparked when she was little, and now she loves to help others fulfil their travel dreams
We know your time is precious. That's why we strive to provide personalised, attentive service to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your tour. From the moment you book to the moment you return home, we’re here to handle every detail with the utmost care.
We offer a diverse array of destinations, each promising its own unique story, shaped by its local cultures, fascinating wildlife, and natural beauty.
We design every tour based on the extensive research and first-hand experiences of our travel specialists and experts. Each tour is crafted to showcase the best each country has to offer.
With us, you can rest assured; your journey is in safe hands. We are ATOL certified and a proud member of ABTA, maintaining rigorous standards of quality and service to ensure your complete peace of mind.