SYDNEY, GREAT BARRIER REEF, CAIRNS, MELBOURNE, QUEENSTOWN, MILFORD SOUND, AUCKLAND, AND DUNEDIN
Switch hemispheres and experience all the thrills of a “down under” adventure. You’ll immerse yourself in contemporary cities and indigenous cultures, natural wonders and feats of modern architecture. Our escorted tour first whisks you off to New Zealand, where you’ll hit the urban gems of Auckland and Dunedin with stops along the way for waterfront towns and an overnight stay on a working farm in the Fairlie. From there, you’ll fly across the Tasman Sea to Australia. Here, you’ll explore the gardens and history of Melbourne, traverse the Great Barrier Reef—one of the seven natural wonders of the world—and see the famed sites of Sydney, including its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Itinerary at
a Glance
- 2 nights in Auckland
- 3 nights in Queenstown
- 2 nights in Dunedin
- 1 night in Fairlie
- 2 nights in Melbourne
- 3 nights in Cairns
- 3 nights in Sydney
Tour
Highlights
Your Tour
Includes
- Round-trip international airfare from Los Angeles
- Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
- All intra-South Pacific flights, ground transportation and transfers
- Accommodations at deluxe and superior first-class hotels
- One night accommodation on a New Zealand Farm with dinner (D)
- Full buffet American breakfast daily (B)
- A welcome dinner in Auckland (D)
- A farewell dinner in Sydney (D)
- Sightseeing tours including admission fees as indicated in itinerary
- English-speaking local guides
Tour Itinerary
Auckland
Discover this coastal gem’s maritime heritage and indigenous people. Join your guide for a drive via Parnell Village to Mission Bay, a seaside suburb boasting a picturesque waterfront. Then journey to Bastion Point for spectacular views of the harbor—one of two that helped earn Auckland its “City of Sails” moniker. You’ll also visit the Auckland Museum, where you can learn about the native culture of the Maori—Eastern Polynesians that arrived in New Zealand over 1,000 years ago and still account for 14% of the population. One of the day’s highlights? You get to take in a…
Milford Sound Excursion
QueenstownToday’s outing takes you to one of the most scenic spots in the world. First, you’ll take a drive along Lake Wakatipu to witness more of its dramatic lightning bolt shape. Then you’ll voyage through dense forests and past shimmering Lake Te Anau—New Zealand’s largest southern glacial lake. Watch out your window for Fiordland National Park and the Homer Tunnel—a 1.2 km passageway through solid rock that was built over 19 years. When you arrive at Milford Sound, it’s all aboard for an unforgettable cruise through towering fjords and alongside majestic waterfalls. After filling…
Queenstown/Arrowtown/Dunedin
After breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to Queenstown to travel to nearby Arrowtown. This former gold rush village blends history and nature in perfect harmony. Take time to admire the well-preserved buildings and walk through the leafy streets while you learn about Arrowtown’s rich past. As you proceed on your journey, countryside vistas unfold on your way to Kawarau Gorge (hint: watch for bungee jumpers). Then you’ll arrive at the top of the Otago Peninsula at Dunedin, a vibrant town with an impressive architectural heritage and wealth of diverse attractions, where you’ll check-in to…
Dunedin
This morning, you’ll set out on an orientation tour of the city. In its center, Dunedin is truly a city of Spires with towers, gables and turrets plus solid, gracious stone buildings, all earning Dunedin the title of the most Victorian City of New Zealand. You’ll also enjoy a guided visit to Olveston House, a 35-room mansion built between 1904 and 1906 for David Theomin as an “English country house in the city.” In 1966, the last surviving member of the Theomin family gifted the home to the city so visitors could explore this life-sized time capsule, still filled with art,…
Dunedin/Mt. Cook Region/Fairlie
After breakfast, depart Dunedin and drive to the spectacular Mount Cook region, known as the gateway to the imposing Southern Alps. From there, we’ll proceed to Fairlie, a thriving farming region in the heart of the sheep grazing pastures of the Canterbury Plains—where more than 80% of New Zealand’s grains and crops are grown. Here you’ll enjoy the ultimate local experience, spending the evening on a working farm where your hosts invite you for a delicious home-cooked dinner and conversation. This is certain to be one of the highlights of your trip! B/D Farm…
Great Barrier Reef Excursion
Your journey begins the moment you board a high-speed catamaran for Green Island, an unspoiled 6,000-year-old coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. With its unique reef and rainforest environment, this 37-acre island provides a superior tropical experience. In fact, Green Island is the only coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef with a rainforest growing on it! This is home to 126 native plant species, colorful bird life and over 1,500 different species of tropical fish. Enjoy a self-guided Eco Island walk, take a ride in a glass-bottom boat to view the magnificent coral of…
Sydney
Because there’s just so much to see and do in Sydney, we’re giving you the full day to explore on your own. One suggestion is an optional tour to the Australian Wildlife Park, where you can hand-feed a kangaroo and cuddle a friendly koala! Music and architectural lovers may want to consider an optional behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House. Or you can simply stroll along the waterfront towards the Rocks area to get in touch with nature. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner in the heart of Sydney with your group. B/D PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney…
Guided Tour Pricing
Price includes round-trip airfare from the U.S. (Land-only pricing available on request.)
| Depart | Return | Depart - Return | Best Value Pricing - Reserve by Nov 25, 2019 | Reserve after Nov 25, 2019 | Select Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 | w/ eCheck Discount | Sale | After Sale | ||
| February 4 | February 22 | Feb 4 - Feb 22 | $6,199 | $6,299 | $6,599 | Book Now  Selling Fast! |
| March 3 | March 21 | Mar 3 - Mar 21 | $6,199 | $6,299 | $6,599 | Book Now Selling Fast! |
| April 7 | April 25 | Apr 7 - Apr 25 | $5,999 | $6,099 | $6,399 | Book Now |
| September 1 | September 19 | Sep 1 - Sep 19 | $5,999 | $6,099 | $6,399 | Book Now |
| October 6 | October 24 | Oct 6 - Oct 24 | $5,999 | $6,099 | $6,399 | Book Now |
| October 20 | November 7 | Oct 20 - Nov 7 | $5,999 | $6,099 | $6,399 | Book Now |
| November 17 | December 5 | Nov 17 - Dec 5 | $6,199 | $6,299 | $6,599 | Book Now |
Rates are per person based on double occupancy.
January – April 2020: Single room supplement is $1349.
September – November 2020: Single room supplement is $1449.
Australia visa fee is not included
Jan 4 Departure: will be staying at the Vibe Savoy Hotel in Melbourne.
For more information on this tour, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-9:00 EST and Sat-Sun, 10:00-6:30 EST) at 800-337-7773.
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received within 48 hours of reservation. Full payment is due 75 days prior to departure. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Optional Tours Customize your trip with these optional tours.
Pricing is subject to change. Payment (non-refundable) should be made in local currency by cash, VISA or MasterCard only. Tours are subject to availability, minimum number of participants, and may not be offered on all departure dates. Once confirmed, missed optional tours are non-refundable. Additional optional tours may be added for your enjoyment.
Skippers Canyon Four-Wheel Drive Safari
- Queenstown
- From approx. $145 Per Person, refreshments included
Visitors to the Queenstown area never fail to be amazed by the unusual landscape of Skippers Canyon. Following the Shotover River valley, the Skippers Road was hacked by hand through solid rock, and clings to sheer cliff sides with breathtaking drops to the river gorge below. You’ll take every hairpin turn along this route and across the spectacular Skippers suspension bridge built in 1900, to the old township of Skippers. This tour delivers magnificent mountain scenery, rugged canyons, gold panning to gain a taste of New Zealand’s pioneer mining history and the excitement of commanding…
Tour of Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle & Wildlife Cruise
- Dunedin
- From approx. $105 Per Person
Embark on a guided afternoon excursion to the scenic Otago Peninsula. From Dunedin, you’ll take the spectacular “High Road,” offering amazing views of both the Pacific Ocean and Otago Harbor. When you arrive at Larnach Castle, you’ll travel back in time on a guided tour of New Zealand’s only castle, built in 1871. Learn the scandalous and tragic history of the Castle and why William Larnach took his own life. See the magnificent carved ceilings, antiques and craftsmanship. You’ll have an opportunity to take photos of the Castle and gardens before continuing to Wellers Rock,…
Michaelmas Cay (Great Barrier Reef) Upgrade
- Cairns
- From approx. $93 Per Person, lunch and tea included
Your smarTours program includes a cruise to Green Island on the inner Great Barrier Reef. This optional tour allows you to upgrade to sail aboard a 32-meter luxury catamaran to picturesque Michaelmas Cay for snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef and an experience you’ll never forget. Michaelmas Cay is an isolated sand island surrounded by magical coral gardens pulsating with marine life. There is also plenty to do while staying dry! Explore the Cay and discover the bird life (it’s a sanctuary for over 20,000 seabirds), hop into the semi-submersible and tour the underwater world with a…
Full-Day Kuranda Village and Scenic SkyRail Excursion
- Cairns
- From approx. $140 Per Person, lunch and tea included
Begin this fascinating day filled with authentic Australian experiences with a scenic drive to Rainforest Station Nature Park, where you’ll learn about the flora and fauna of the rainforest on a guided ride aboard an original amphibious army duck. You’ll also immerse yourself in the Aboriginal culture as you attend a vibrant performance of native Pamagirri Dancers and join a Dreamtime walk for insights into this unique culture. You’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at boomerang and spear throwing. Travel to the nearby quaint village of Kuranda, famous for its elaborate craft…
Rocks Guided Walking Tour
- Sydney
- From approx. $25 Per Person
This guided walking tour brings the history of Sydney’s convict settlement to life with entertaining stories of Rascals, Rats and Restoration. Your expert Rocks guide will lead you through the fascinating area and show you some of the earliest buildings, including homes of the “well-to-do” and the quaint cottages of the working class. You’ll also see historic pubs, once frequented by locals and sailors alike. Guided walks start at 10:30am, 1:30pm and 2:30pm from a central point in the Rocks area and last about 1.5 hours. Please note that transfers from and to your hotel are not…
Australian Wildlife Park
- Sydney
- From approx. $70 Per Person
Depart Sydney this morning via the scenic Harbour Bridge and head west of the city to Featherdale Wildlife Park. Here, you’ll enjoy an up-close look at some of Australia’s one-of-a-kind native animals including koalas, kangaroos, wallaby and emu. Do not miss opportunities to hand-feed kangaroos and have your photo taken with a koala. You’ll also come face-to-face with an amazing range of birds and many species of reptiles. On the way back to the city, drive through Sydney’s Olympic Park before returning to your hotel around lunchtime. (This tour requires a minimum of 15…
Featured Accommodations
Before You Depart
FLIGHT INFORMATION
Your flights from the U.S. and back are on Qantas Airways. We recommend that you check-in three-and-a-half hours before departure. Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting flight. We recommend at least three-and-a-half hours. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change.
| Departure Date | Depart | Return |
2019: Nov. – Dec. 2020: Apr., Sep. – Nov. | 10:30PM | 6:30AM |
2020: Jan. – Mar. | 10:30PM | 6:00AM |
ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT
Qantas Airways does not assign seats in advance. Seat assignments can only be arranged at the airport upon check-in, and smarTours® is not involved with assigning seats. If you have a preferred seating choice, please make sure you check-in for your flight as early as possible.
PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the travel date. U.S. citizens require a visa to Australia and New Zealand.
Australia: U.S. passport holders require an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority/visa) to enter Australia. This visa can be secured online before the trip by logging into the official website at https://www.eta.homeaffairs.gov.au/ETAS3/etas. Please follow the procedures as listed on the official website to secure the ETA/Visa and pay online any applicable fees.
New Zealand: U.S. citizens may travel to New Zealand without a visa if they get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) waiver before they travel. For more information and to apply for an NZeTA waiver, please visit https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta.
Non-U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates as to the most current visa requirements to all their travel destinations. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.
TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS
Your airline tickets, along with final instruction and some additional travel tips, will be sent to you 7–10 days before the scheduled departure of your tour. Please make sure to advise us in case your address changes.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Immunizations are not currently required. However, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local public health authorities as to their suggestions.
CLIMATE
Weather conditions will vary widely in the areas covered on this tour. Generally speaking, seasons “down under” are the reverse of our seasons. (When it’s summer in the U.S., it’s winter “down under.”) Cairns enjoys tropical weather with hot temperatures during their summer (Dec-Feb). Sydney’s weather is mild with highs varying from the 60s in their winter to the 80s during their summer. The South Island of New Zealand will be mild during their summer (60s and low 70s) and cool in their winter (high in the 40s). It’s always a good idea to dress in layers.
NON-INCLUDED MEALS AND SIGHTSEEING
The hotels used on this tour have several dining choices, from casual cafes to specialty restaurants. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) is about $20–$25 per person. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals. Optional sightseeing tours and evening activities will be offered.
CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY
Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. Dollars. Your hotels will be able to exchange cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.
BAGGAGE
Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase) max. 44 pounds, and one carry-on not exceeding 18”x10”x8”. We recommend that you do not overpack and that you take a variety of casual separates with climate and comfort in mind.