Australia & New Zealand Panorama
Bucket list bonanza!
You've always wanted to see the cities, landscapes, and wildlife of Australia, but the beauty and adventure of New Zealand also excites you. Why choose just one? This once-in-a-lifetime vacation package brings you to the must-see spots of both Australia and New Zealand! Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and explore Sydney and Melbourne, then discover the magic of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and enjoy free time in Queenstown. With tons of included activities and meals, this escorted tour is the very best way to experience these bucket list countries!
You can find safety advice and alerts for Australia travel here.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Melbourne (MEL), out of Auckland (AKL)
- All airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in Melbourne at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Hotel
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Pacific Hotel Cairns
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Hyatt Regency Darling Harbour
- 3 nights in Queenstown at the Millennium Hotel
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Millennium Hotel
- 1 night in Auckland at the Stamford Plaza Hotel
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Melbourne Sightseeing Tour
- Private wildlife journey at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with boat cruise
- Catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef with snorkeling and lunch
- Dinner & show at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
- Captain Cook sunset dinner cruise
- Sydney sightseeing tour including Bondi Beach and lunch
- Panoramic tour of Arrowtown and Queenstown
- Powhiri ceremonial Maori dinner at the Tamaki Family Marae
- Maori-guided tour of Whakarewarewa Living Thermal Village
- Tour of Rainbow Springs Nature Park
- Agrodome Farm Show
- Tour of the Waitomo Caves with Glowworm Grotto
- Auckland city tour
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 7 dinners
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to to Cairns (CNS)
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Queenstown (ZQN)
- One-way economy class flight from Queenstown (ZQN) to Rotorua (ROT)
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
Great Ways to Explore
-
Learn all about New Zealand's indigenous Māori culture with traditional meals and performances.
- Experience native Australian animals on a visit to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures.
-
Immerse yourself in Aussie surf culture at Bondi Beach.
-
Enjoy an unforgettable sunset dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour.
-
Take photos of vibrant street art in Melbourne!
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Ready to take the trip of a lifetime? This amazing escorted tour takes you from Australia to New Zealand, with experiences in Melbourne, Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Queenstown, Rotorua, Auckland, and more! Feast your eyes on unspoiled natural splendor, including brilliant blue coastlines, colorful coral reefs, Packed with a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture, this vacation is the ultimate experience.
Feel your heart flutter with excitement as you land in Melbourne! Discover the city's cool cafe culture, vibrant street art, and hidden arcades. From Melbourne, you'll fly to Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef! Enjoy a private wildlife journey at Hartley's Crocodile Adventure and come face-to-face with koalas, wallabies, and other native Australian wildlife. Then, set sail on a high-speed catamaran cruise to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef! Go snorkeling and see tropical fish, colorful coral, and green sea turtles up-close.
After an amazing time in Cairns, get ready to explore the sunny city of Sydney! Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise as you pass the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and other iconic sites. Immerse yourself in surf culture at Bondi Beach and feel like a local at The Rock!
Next, wave goodbye to Australia and fly to New Zealand! Arrive in Queenstown, the country's adventure capital. Feast your eyes on the glistening waters of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range! Your tour will continue on to Rotorua, known for its Māori culture and geothermal landscapes. See New Zealand's biggest geyser, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs! You'll also experience a traditional Māori ceremony, performance, and dinner at a local cultural center.
Last, but certainly not least, you'll explore the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves! Watch the caves illuminate as thousands of glowworms twinkle in the darkness. Head to Auckland for your final night and enjoy a city tour before you head home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Melbourne (MEL), out of Auckland (AKL)
- All airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in Melbourne at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Hotel
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Pacific Hotel Cairns
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Hyatt Regency Darling Harbour
- 3 nights in Queenstown at the Millennium Hotel
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Millennium Hotel
- 1 night in Auckland at the Stamford Plaza Hotel
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Melbourne Sightseeing Tour
- Private wildlife journey at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with boat cruise
- Catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef with snorkeling and lunch
- Dinner & show at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
- Captain Cook sunset dinner cruise
- Sydney sightseeing tour including Bondi Beach and lunch
- Panoramic tour of Arrowtown and Queenstown
- Powhiri ceremonial Maori dinner at the Tamaki Family Marae
- Maori-guided tour of Whakarewarewa Living Thermal Village
- Tour of Rainbow Springs Nature Park
- Agrodome Farm Show
- Tour of the Waitomo Caves with Glowworm Grotto
- Auckland city tour
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 7 dinners
- One-way economy class flight from Melbourne (MEL) to to Cairns (CNS)
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Queenstown (ZQN)
- One-way economy class flight from Queenstown (ZQN) to Rotorua (ROT)
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
-
Learn all about New Zealand's indigenous Māori culture with traditional meals and performances.
- Experience native Australian animals on a visit to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures.
-
Immerse yourself in Aussie surf culture at Bondi Beach.
-
Enjoy an unforgettable sunset dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour.
-
Take photos of vibrant street art in Melbourne!
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Ready to take the trip of a lifetime? This amazing escorted tour takes you from Australia to New Zealand, with experiences in Melbourne, Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Queenstown, Rotorua, Auckland, and more! Feast your eyes on unspoiled natural splendor, including brilliant blue coastlines, colorful coral reefs, Packed with a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture, this vacation is the ultimate experience.
Feel your heart flutter with excitement as you land in Melbourne! Discover the city's cool cafe culture, vibrant street art, and hidden arcades. From Melbourne, you'll fly to Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef! Enjoy a private wildlife journey at Hartley's Crocodile Adventure and come face-to-face with koalas, wallabies, and other native Australian wildlife. Then, set sail on a high-speed catamaran cruise to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef! Go snorkeling and see tropical fish, colorful coral, and green sea turtles up-close.
After an amazing time in Cairns, get ready to explore the sunny city of Sydney! Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise as you pass the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and other iconic sites. Immerse yourself in surf culture at Bondi Beach and feel like a local at The Rock!
Next, wave goodbye to Australia and fly to New Zealand! Arrive in Queenstown, the country's adventure capital. Feast your eyes on the glistening waters of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range! Your tour will continue on to Rotorua, known for its Māori culture and geothermal landscapes. See New Zealand's biggest geyser, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs! You'll also experience a traditional Māori ceremony, performance, and dinner at a local cultural center.
Last, but certainly not least, you'll explore the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves! Watch the caves illuminate as thousands of glowworms twinkle in the darkness. Head to Auckland for your final night and enjoy a city tour before you head home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Melbourne, Australia!
Touch down in magical Melbourne! Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your first hotel. Check-in and get settled, then join your Travel Director for a welcome dinner at a riverside restaurant! Sip delicious wine and get to know your travel companions.
Transfer to Melbourne hotel
Check-in - Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne
Located on the Yarra River, Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne offers a comfortable and convenient choice hotel. Guests will enjoy free WiFi, premium bedding, complimentary toiletries, and more. Clarendon St Grill offers simple and fresh dishes for breakfast and dinner, while the Lobby Bar is the perfect choice for a pre-dinner cocktail or business lunch. The hotel features a fitness center, pool, and business center to meet the needs of every type of guest. Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne is within walking distance to many of Melbourne's finest attractions, including Bourke Street, Flinders Street Station, St. Paul's Cathedral, and so much more!
Day 2. Melbourne
Rise and shine! After a delicious breakfast, you'll begin exploring Melbourne. Follow your guide on a journey through the city's famous hidden laneways, lined with eclectic arcades, vibrant street art, and charming cafes. Immerse yourself in Melbourne's cool coffee culture and browse around funky shops!
Day 3. Melbourne - Cairns
Wave goodbye to Melbourne and fly to colorful Cairns! Look out the plane window and feast your eyes on the turquoise water that rests below.
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your next accommodation. Quickly settle in, then grab your camera and embark on a private wildlife journey at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures! Enjoy a boat cruise and encounter koalas, wallabies, and of course - crocodiles.
Following a thrilling first day in Cairns, get to know the area and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Melbourne airport
Fly to Cairns!
Transfer to Cairns hotel
Check-in - Pacific Hotel Cairns
Step out on your balcony and look out over the beautiful Cairns Esplanade and Trinity Harbor from the Pacific Hotel in Cairns. The hotel is easily within walking distance of the main shopping area and the new attractions at the Esplanade, like waterfront boardwalks, movie theaters, and art galleries, as well as a lagoon and beach. Retreat to the serenity of your hotel after a day of adventure!
Rooms are spacious and offer air conditioning, a safe, coffee and tea making facilities, a work desk, ironing facilities, a refrigerator, and private bathrooms complete with a hair dryer and toiletries.
Day 4. Cairns
Get ready to check the Great Barrier Reef off your bucket-list! Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, then board a high-speed catamaran and cruise to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef! Feel your jaw drop as spectacular coral and tropical fish come into focus. Snorkel through the crystal-clear water and see the reef's marine life up-close, or observe from the boat's semi-submersible craft.
To make this day even better, you'll indulge in a tropical buffet lunch before returning back to Cairns!
Day 5. Cairns
Today, consider a day-trip to Kuranda Rainforest. This lush land will allow you to see koalas, discover natural beauty, and immerse yourself in ancient village life. For an extra thrill, take a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which runs above the Barron Gorge National Park! This natural wonderland is only 15 minutes from Cairns by car, and is also reachable by public transportation.
In the mood to simply relax? Soak up some sun at Cairns Lagoon, or take a bike ride to Palm Cove!
Tonight, prepare for a special "Be My Guest" dinner and show at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park! Experience an authentic "Welcome to Country" ceremony, hear stories from indigenous groups, and witness traditional performances. You'll enjoy dinner as you listen to the peaceful sounds of the didgeridoo!
Day 6. Cairns - Sydney
Get ready to explore sunny Sydney! After a quick flight, you'll be transferred to your next hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in, then board an unforgettable Captain Cook Sunset Dinner Cruise! Enjoy mouthwatering cuisine as you gaze out at a mesmerizing sunset over Sydney Harbour. This will be a perfect opportunity to take great pictures of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House!
Transfer to Cairns airport
Fly to Sydney!
Transfer to Sydney hotel
Check-in - Hyatt Regency Harbour
Hyatt Regency Harbour overlooks Darling Harbour in Sydney's CBD. It is the largest hotel in Sydney, with almost 900 rooms and a variety of dining options and meeting spaces. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, television, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. Sailmaker offers dishes featuring fresh produce and local seafood. Zephyr is the hotel's rooftop bar offering sensational views of Sydney and Darling Harbour. The hotel also has a Lobby Lounge where you can start the day with a morning coffee or end the day with a cozy cocktail. With Sydney's finest attractions at your fingertips, you'll appreciate the comfort and convenience of Hyatt Regency Harbour.
Day 7. Sydney
See Sydney's iconic sites with a local expert! Following breakfast, join your guide on a sightseeing tour and make your first stop at the recognizable Sydney Opera House. After a bit of theatrical history, you'll continue to the gold sands of Bondi Beach!
On the shores of famous Bondi, you'll be welcomed by a local surf lifesaver. Next, you'll be taken to a famous Aussie institution, the Returned Servicemen's Club, for a lovely lunch! Indulge in delicious food as you take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Lunch will be followed by an exclusive tour through Australia's oldest surf livesaving club for an insight into the history of Bondi Beach!
Day 8. Sydney
Enjoy a day at leisure! Get excited as you plan your day over breakfast. Explore the cobblestone streets of The Rocks, mosey through the Royal Botanic Garden, and feast your eyes on postcard-worthy views from Mrs. Macquarie's Chair!
After a wonderful day of freedom and exploration, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner by the waterfront.
Day 9. Sydney, Australia - Queenstown, New Zealand
Say "see ya" to Sydney and get ready to tackle New Zealand! After a quick flight, you'll be transferred to your Queenstown hotel. Settle in, then explore the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown before an orientation tour of Queenstown.
Transfer to Sydney airport
Fly to Queenstown, New Zealand!
Transfer to Queenstown hotel
Check-in - Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located just minutes from shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of the city. Guest rooms are furnished with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, in-room entertainment, and more. The Observatory Restaurant features national New Zealand cuisine and is open for breakfast and dinner. Unwind from the day with a cocktail at The Club Bar. Guests will also enjoy a spa, sauna, and fitness center!
Day 10. Queenstown
Rise and shine! Today is completely yours to explore Queenstown however you please. Wander around and get to know the city, or venture to some nearby natural wonders.
This evening, join your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner at The Boatshed, a historic structure built in 1936! Restored and relocated to its lakefront setting, The Boatshed offers spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. With delicious food, great company, and stunning scenery, this dinner will be a wonderful memory.
Day 11. Queenstown
Wake up and smell the adventure! Today is another free day in Queenstown. If you're craving amazing landscapes, take a day trip to Milford Sound or Mount Aspiring National Park!
Day 12. Queenstown - Rotorua
Kiss Queenstown goodbye and fly to Rotorua, the cultural center of New Zealand. After you're transferred to your hotel and all settled in, join your travel companions for a memorable dinner as you learn about Māori culture!
Experience the heart-pounding wero (challenge) from a Māori warrior during the Powhiri, a ceremonial welcome, at the Tamaki Family Marae. Then, journey into the village and gain an insight into life in New Zealand before European settlement! Indulge in delicious meats and vegetables cooked in a hangi, the traditional Māori method of cooking using the earth.
Transfer to Queenstown airport
Fly to Rotorua!
Transfer to Rotorua hotel
Check-in - Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Nestled next to glistening Lake Rotorua, this contemporary hotel offers lush garden grounds, cozy rooms, wellness facilities, and stylish decor. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then stroll through the ornate halls to your comfortable room. Open the door and find crisp air conditioning, TV, plush bedding, WiFi, bath amenities, and much more.
Unpack your swimsuit and take a dip in the sparkling pool, or work all your stresses away in the fitness center. Why not pamper yourself with a decadent spa treatment? When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Restaurant Nikau, Brasserie Poolside Restaurant, or Bar Zazu. Check the schedule for nightly cultural shows!
Day 13. Rotorua
Grab your camera and prepare to explore Rotorua! Fuel up with breakfast, then join a Māori local expert who will accompany you around the Whakarewarewa Living Thermal village. Get up-close and personal with New Zealand's biggest geyser, as well as bubbling mud pools and steamy thermal springs!
Next stop: Rainbow Springs Nature Park! Enjoy a tour with another local expert who will show off New Zealand's wildlife and farm life. Keep your eyes out for a kiwi! Your day will end with a visit to Agrodome Farm Show, where you'll gain an insight into farm life in New Zealand.
Day 14. Rotorua - Auckland
Today, you'll feast your eyes on a fascinating spectacle - the Waitomo Glowworm Caves! Join an expert and journey through these famous limestone caves. Watch in awe as thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the caves!
After an incredible morning, you'll arrive in Auckland for your final night. See the city's most iconic sights on a city tour, then join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a special farewell dinner.
Transfer to Auckland hotel
Sightseeing en route!
Check-in - Stamford Plaza Hotel Auckland
Stamford Plaza Hotel Auckland is located just three blocks from the harbor and waterfront. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with free WiFi, bathrobes and slippers, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. The hotel offers a variety of dining options including Koa Restaurant, Kabuki Teppanyaki Restaurant, Grasshopper Thai Restaurant, and Koa Lobby Bar. Additional amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, and meeting rooms.
Day 15. Depart New Zealand
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and get ready to fly home. Enjoy one last breakfast "down under" before you're transferred to the airport.
Spend your flight replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure!