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Connect with the Outback, untamed fiords and fascinating Māori legends, every bit as enchanting as looking up with a sense of awe and wonder at New Zealand's dark night sky.
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Travel Style - Regional Explorer
Gain the insights into the diversity of two or more countries.
Melbourne's elegant façades and broad boulevards are your launchpad to an immersive encounter with Australia and New Zealand. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel (flights to arrive prior to 12pm). This evening, get to know your Travel Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception including a Regional Dinner.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Crowne Plaza
Admire the city's Victorian architecture, arcades and eclectic little laneways revealing some of the world's most incredible street art as you 'Dive into Culture' on a private walking tour of the city - encounter the aroma of Melbourne's coffee culture around every corner.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 3
Melbourne Free Time
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore stylish Melbourne or consider an Optional Experience along the Great Ocean Road.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 4
Melbourne - Alice Springs
Journey to the heart of the continent, the gateway to central Australia's soul-stirring landscapes. On our first stop, we join 'Local Specialists' to delve into the support that the School of the Air provides to isolated communities and the historic Telegraph Station, connecting Australia's north and south - with a single wire. Later, we 'Connect with Locals' over a 'Be My Guest' dinner at the Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, where we'll meet the famous Outback Paramedic Falzon brothers and learn about the sustainable lifestyle they've established.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Mercure Alice Springs Resort
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 5
Alice Springs - Ayers Rock (2 Nights)
The rusty red landscapes of Uluru beckon today and we leave Alice Springs bound for Ayers Rock Resort. This evening, watch as the Outback sky ignites in shades of red, yellow and purple - the perfect backdrop for Uluru sundowners. Later, consider an optional authentic Aussie BBQ Dinner under the glittering southern-night sky. Our home for the next two nights is one of Trafalgar's 'Stays with Stories' - the Desert Gardens Hotel which reveals the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Watch night turn to day as you witness a magical sunrise over Uluru. 'Dive into Culture' and hear stories about the Anangu, caretakers of this remote arid landscape, touring the base of Uluru to discover its ancient rock art. This afternoon, continue your journey through the desert plains to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and enjoy a walk amidst its towering domes through Walpa Gorge. Admire yet another magnificent sunset paired with sparkling wine.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 7
Ayers Rock - Cairns (3 Nights)
Rise with the birds and visit the kaleidoscopic art installation in the desert, the Field of Light. This soul-stirring start to your morning gives way to yet another magical experience on top of a sand dune to watch the desert landscape awaken over Uluru with a hot drink in hand. Later, join your 'Local Specialist' Aboriginal artist for a fun introduction to Western Desert Art and craft your own story as a memento of the experience. This afternoon fly to Cairns.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Shangri-La
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 8
Cairns Free Time
Ease into the laidback lifestyle of Cairns - a full free day to explore this tropical city or consider an Optional Experience to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park or Hartley's Crocodile Adventures.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 9
Great Barrier Reef
Board a high-speed catamaran and cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef. Don your mask and fins for an up-close encounter with this natural wonderland (equipment provided) or stay dry and explore the world's largest living reef system from the comfort of a semi-submersible craft. Before your return to Cairns, you'll enjoy a tropical buffet lunch under the glorious Aussie sunshine. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Regional Dinner on the Cairns waterfront.
Delve into the story of a building 'that changed the image of an entire country' joining a 'Local Specialist' for a guided tour of Sydney Opera House. Dip your toes in the Pacific waters of Bondi Beach, then board a Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise as you sail past Sydney's iconic harbour sights.
Enjoy a full free day to explore Sydney on your terms or consider joining an Optional Experience to the Blue Mountains to connect with nature. Admire the small-town atmosphere of Leura, see the famous Three Sisters rock formation and visit a Wildlife Park to get up close to some of Australia's cuddly creatures. Spend your last evening in Sydney with your Travel Director and companions enjoying a Regional Dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Dive Into Culture with a city sightseeing tour this morning, including Mission Bay, Bastion Point and the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial for sweeping views of Waitemata Harbour and the North Shore. Spend the afternoon at leisure.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 15
Auckland - Rotorua
Journey through the dramatic scenery and landscapes of Waikato, passing through Cambridge, 'The Town of Trees and Champions', on your way to Rotorua. Once there, explore the wonders and crystal-clear mineral springs of Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Join a Local Specialist who will help you spot shy kiwi amongst the native bush, ferns and trees. This evening, Dive Into Culture at a Regional Dinner at the Tamaki Maori Village.
Enjoy breakfast in the charming village of Hobbiton, the movie set of the now iconic The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies, before continuing to Auckland to board your flight to Queenstown. Tonight, speak with your Travel Director about dining recommendations in Queenstown.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Millennium
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 17
Milford Sound
Journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and over the Devil's Staircase to Te Anau. Experience magnificent scenery afforded by the Mirror Lakes, Cleddau Valley and the Chasm. Emerge from the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel towards Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls before reaching Milford Sound. Take to its still waters for a cruise filled with pinch-me moments. Return to Queenstown for a free evening. Speak to your Travel Director about dining recommendations in Queenstown.
A day at leisure could see you take an Optional Experience ride on the Shotover Jet boat or a cruise aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet BBQ lunch. This evening, join your Travel Director for a Regional Dinner at The Boatshed.
Leave the alpine wonderland of Queenstown for Lake Tekapo, travelling through Arrowtown, with its lovingly-restored mining cottages, and Cromwell on the banks of Lake Dunstan. View the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Spend the evening stargazing in the world-renowned UNESCO Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Enjoy a relaxed start before heading north through South Canterbury, visiting the charming boutique village of Geraldine en route to Christchurch.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Distinction
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 21
Christchurch Sightseeing
After a city sightseeing tour, 'Connect with Locals' Isabelle and Tim Weston for a 'Be My Guest' morning tea at their home, Britten Stables. Formerly horse stables, the couple restored the property and transformed it into the exquisite home it is today. Spend the last evening with your travel companions and Travel Director at a Farewell Dinner.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest, Farewell Dinner
Day 22
Depart Christchurch
Bid farewell to your newfound friends as your holiday concludes this morning after breakfast. You will be transferred to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight (flights anytime).
21 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners (including Connect with Locals)
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On-trip Transport
All transport shown
Included Highlights that will delight you
Connect with Locals
Just out of Alice Springs is Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, Central Australia's first 100% carbon neutral venue, where you'll hear stories of ecology, culture and astronomy, while enjoying an Aussie Outback barbecue dinner. (Day 4) Meet a couple in their Christchurch home, the birthplace of a world-record-setting Britten V1000 motorcycle. (Day 21)
Dive into Culture
Tour the waterholes at the base of Uluru and learn about the traditional owners of the land, the Anangu. (Day 6)Gain an insight into their native culture and traditions at the Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua. (Day 15)
Local Specialist
For included sightseeing in Alice Springs, Rotorua, Lake Tekapo (Days 4, 15, 19).
Stays with Stories
You'll discover the stunning heart of the Red Centre from the Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock. Revealing the natural beauty of this unique landscape, the hotel offers incredible views of towering gums, flowering native shrubs and glowing red dunes. (Day 5)
Sightseeing highlights
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CITY TOUR in Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland
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CRUISE on Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour and Milford Sound
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VIEW Sydney Harbour Bridge on your city tour and the renowned Field of Light installation in Uluru
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VISIT Uluru, Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Cherry-picked hotels all tried and trusted
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Handcrafted Highlights
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Optional Experiences and free time
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All porterage and local charges included
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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An expert Travel Director and separate Driver, Driver Guide only on Mini-Stays
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
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Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
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VIP entry to many sights
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LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELERS REVIEWS
Highlights of Australia and New Zealand Trip Reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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Many Memorable Experiences during the Highlights of Australia & New Zealand
Trip Rating
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5
A variety of locations were visited and we participated in many activities. Signed up for so many excursions that we only wore swimsuits when we snorkeled at the Great Barrier Reef. At meals, while on the bus, train, boat or walking, we got to know fellow travelers even better.
Numerous locations were visited and we were able to participate in activities. All of the hotels were very nice. Our travel directors for both Australia & New Zealand were excellent. The bus drivers made stops at locations providing everyone with what they needed. We also had facilities on the bus if needed. I would let others know to be prepared to purchase netting for Alice Springs & Uluru during the summer months. We met many individuals in our group that we plan to remain in contact with. I have been recommending this trip to others because we had such a memorable experience.
Many Memorable Experiences during the Highlights of Australia & New Zealand
Trip Rating
Review Star Icon
5
A variety of locations were visited and we participated in many activities. Signed up for so many excursions that we only wore swimsuits when we snorkeled at the Great Barrier Reef. At meals, while on the bus, train, boat or walking, we got to know fellow travelers even better.
Numerous locations were visited and we were able to participate in activities. All of the hotels were very nice. Our travel directors for both Australia & New Zealand were excellent. The bus drivers made stops at locations providing everyone with what they needed. We also had facilities on the bus if needed. I would let others know to be prepared to purchase netting for Alice Springs & Uluru during the summer months. We met many individuals in our group that we plan to remain in contact with. I have been recommending this trip to others because we had such a memorable experience.
In Australia, did not see benefit in going to Alice Springs. We did have an outback dinner there, that was very good, but that was all. In New Zealand, we could have spent another day in Rotorua. It was one day and jammed. We had a be my guest lunch as well as dinner at cultural center. There was not enough time at Maori wildlife/culture/geyser center. It was brief and rushed. All hotels, except Alice Springs were very nice. Alice Springs was not bad, but right off highway and more motel than hotel. All coaches were nice. Wi-FI was sketchy sometimes, but not sure if it could be helped depending on location.
It was a trip of a lifetime. The sights and history behind them were wonderful to see and learn of each countries cultures. The tour guides were friendly, professional and informative. Their insight added so much value to the sights. I cannot imagine doing it without them. The only glitch we had was with visas to New Zealand. I believe Trafalgar dropped the ball on this. About 5 weeks before the trip we got a frantic email saying we did not have visas. We had paid Trafalgar for this and assumed they took care of. When we were notified we completed paperwork and within day got confirmation that we had visas. All good. Not good. That was only for Australia. When we got to the airport to fly to New Zealand, no visa. Christin, tour guide, downloaded app and we completed request and paid for New Zealand visa on line. Luckily confirmation came back in about five minutes, instead of the up to 72 hours, and we were able to make flight to New Zealand. I'm sure in the literature that was sent to us it talked about visas. However, when the person from Trafalgar contacted us regarding visas, one would think that would have included a visa for New Zealand. Even if we had to pay an additional fee. Part of the reason for using a travel company like Trafalgar is that they are the pros and know what is needed. Others with Trafalgar had their visas completed, but we were missed.
In Australia, did not see benefit in going to Alice Springs. We did have an outback dinner there, that was very good, but that was all. In New Zealand, we could have spent another day in Rotorua. It was one day and jammed. We had a be my guest lunch as well as dinner at cultural center. There was not enough time at Maori wildlife/culture/geyser center. It was brief and rushed. All hotels, except Alice Springs were very nice. Alice Springs was not bad, but right off highway and more motel than hotel. All coaches were nice. Wi-FI was sketchy sometimes, but not sure if it could be helped depending on location.
It was a trip of a lifetime. The sights and history behind them were wonderful to see and learn of each countries cultures. The tour guides were friendly, professional and informative. Their insight added so much value to the sights. I cannot imagine doing it without them. The only glitch we had was with visas to New Zealand. I believe Trafalgar dropped the ball on this. About 5 weeks before the trip we got a frantic email saying we did not have visas. We had paid Trafalgar for this and assumed they took care of. When we were notified we completed paperwork and within day got confirmation that we had visas. All good. Not good. That was only for Australia. When we got to the airport to fly to New Zealand, no visa. Christin, tour guide, downloaded app and we completed request and paid for New Zealand visa on line. Luckily confirmation came back in about five minutes, instead of the up to 72 hours, and we were able to make flight to New Zealand. I'm sure in the literature that was sent to us it talked about visas. However, when the person from Trafalgar contacted us regarding visas, one would think that would have included a visa for New Zealand. Even if we had to pay an additional fee. Part of the reason for using a travel company like Trafalgar is that they are the pros and know what is needed. Others with Trafalgar had their visas completed, but we were missed.
It is a very busy itinerary so be prepared but with the amazing support and assistance from the tour guides it is very well organized and runs smoothly
Was a great way to see highlights of both countries in a short time. Tours were well organized and the tour guides were wonderful. Trafalgar should be very proud of them. They are a credit to your company.
Air: Please note that pricing does not include internal flights, with the exception of guests booking and travelling from the USA and Canada. Land Only price requires the following intra-trip flights to be purchased separately in order to fulfil the trip itinerary: Day 4 from Melbourne to Alice Springs – QF796; Day 7 from Ayers Rock to Cairns – QF1854; Day 10 from Cairns to Sydney – VA1418; Day 13 from Sydney to Auckland – VA135; Day 16 from Auckland to Queenstown – NZ623. Trafalgar guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
Explore Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park and discover how your visit helps support not only the environment, but the traditions of the native Mutitjulu community. (Day 6)
This trip is operated in conjunction with our sister company and South Pacific Specialists - AAT Kings.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Double-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.
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