Best of Down Under: Australia & New Zealand

38 Days
From CAD 14599
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(30 reviews)

Experience Overview

We don’t just say any trip is the “best of”. But when you’re 38 days in length and loaded with the best experiences Australia and New Zealand have to offer, well, that’s the only way to do this level of adventure justice. Starting in Adelaide, you’ll make your way to the beaches of Victoria, Grampians National Park, the Daintree Rainforest, the Blue Mountains, Fiordland National Park, and a unique Maori experience — and that’s not including a million-ish other places in between. If you’re looking for the total Down Under experience, this is it.

Highlights

  • Travel along the Great Ocean Road and look out for the 12 Apostles
  • Hike in Grampians National Park
  • Follow an Indigenous guide through the Daintree Rainforest
  • Spend the day boating around the scenic Whitsundays
  • Cruise around the fjords of Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park
  • Experience traditional Maori culture

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 2624

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Budget

TransportTransport: Private vehicle, plane, boat, ferry, walking

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Travel StylesTravel Styles: Budget

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: OAAC

StartStarts: Adelaide, Australia

FinishFinishes: Christchurch, New Zealand

DurationDuration: 38 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Activities

  • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: Franz Josef Your Discover Moment: Queenstown
  • Melbourne Laneways Walk
  • Brighton Bathing Boxes Visit
  • Rainforest Walk, Great Otway National Park
  • 12 Apostles Visit
  • Loch Ard Gorge Visit
  • Grampians National Park Visit
  • Mossman Gorge Indigenous Peoples Interpretive Walk
  • Whitsunday Islands Boating Excursion
  • Barrier Reef Visit
  • Surfing lesson in Byron Bay
  • Blue Mountains Scenic Railway
  • Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visit
  • Internal flights
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels/motels (35nts), Rainforest cabin (2nts).
  • 16 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

  • Private vehicle, plane, boat, ferry, walking

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 14599 (CAD 384 /day)

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Adelaide

Arrive at any time. Join your CEO for a welcome meeting.
There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore your surroundings.

2

Day 2: Adelaide/Halls Gap

Travel inland to Grampians National Park, known for its sandstone mountain range.

3

Day 3: Halls Gap

Trek through the forest, lush with vegetation and wildlife. Visit the culturally significant MacKenzie Falls for a short hike. Walk to the stunning Balconies, then spend the afternoon relaxing with the locals - our resident wild kangaroos and emus.

4

Day 4: Halls Gap/Port Campbell

Travel south to the ancient volcanic crater of Tower Hill, with the opportunity to spot some of Australia's most iconic wildlife. Afterwards, begin your journey along the Great Ocean Road as far as the township of Port Campbell.

5

Day 5: Port Campbell

Spend the day exploring the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and surrounding natural attractions. Opt for a walk along any number of short paths available to immerse yourself in nature. If the luck of weather is on your side, round out the day by watching the light become golden over the Twelve Apostles on the drive to Port Campbell.

6

Day 6: Port Campbell/Mornington Peninsula

Spend the day travelling along the Great Ocean Road. Pass world-famous surf beaches, and walk through the rainforest in Great Otway National Park. Travel by ferry across Port Phillip to the Mornington Peninsula.

7

Day 7: Mornington Peninsula

Spend the morning exploring the Mornington Peninsula, including a visit to Cape Schanck. In the afternoon, opt to visit a winery or relax and enjoy yourself at one of the many incredible beaches in the area.
Although fairly small in size, the Mornington Peninsula packs a big punch with the amount of things to do here. Be awed with the stunning coastal scenery while driving through quaint towns and past stunning beaches.

8

Day 8: Mornington Peninsula/Melbourne

Continue on to Melbourne but first make a few stops along the way. Stop to see Brighton's brightly coloured bathing boxes, miniature beachfront cabins that are unique to the beaches in Port Phillip Bay.

9

Day 9: Melbourne

Tour Melbourne's iconic laneways and learn more about coffee culture, and pick up some great pointers for your free afternoon of exploration.

10

Day 10: Melbourne/Cairns

Fly to the oceanside city of Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

11

Day 11: Cairns/Cape Tribulation

Head north to Cape Tribulation. Stop en route to explore Mossman Gorge and take an interpretive walk through the Daintree Rainforest.

12

Day 12: Cape Tribulation

With a free day, opt for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef or to explore Daintree National Park.

13

Day 13: Cape Tribulation/Cairns

Return to Cairns in the afternoon with free time to explore this laid-back city. En route, stop by Port Douglas and opt to have lunch at a local market.

14

Day 14: Cairns/Airlie Beach

Depart early for a full day of travel to reach Airlie Beach, enjoying scenic views along the way.

15

Day 15: Airlie Beach

Spend the day out on the water boating around the Whitsunday Islands, visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Opt to swim or snorkel, and hike to an island lookout over Whitehaven Beach, known for its stunning white sand. Return to Airlie Beach for the night.

16

Day 16: Airlie Beach/Byron Bay

Fly to Brisbane and transfer to Byron Bay for two nights in this "hippie" paradise.

17

Day 17: Byron Bay

Spend a free morning exploring Byron or opt to prebook a kayaking tour. In the afternoon, you'll head to the beach for a surf lesson with a trained surf instructor. Enjoy a few hours of instruction before hitting the waves for some practice rides.
Pre-book the "Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional experience on your tour.

18

Day 18: Byron Bay/Port Macquarie

Spend the morning wandering the town checking out the local shops or having one last coffee on the beach before heading to the coastal township of Port Macquarie, featuring all the beauty of the beach set alongside gorgeous national parks. Enjoy an evening in Port Macquarie.

19

Day 19: Port Macquarie/Blue Mountains

Travel from Port Macquarie to the Blue Mountains today. These mountains in Australia are best known for their soaring sandstone ridges. As you drive, pass by charming mountain towns, ancient Aboriginal rock art, lush green valleys, and loads of craggy cliffs. It doesn't matter if the journey is shrouded in clouds or glowing in the sinking sun, you'll still spot beauty around every turn.

20

Day 20: Blue Mountains

Travel deeper into the majestic Blue Mountains and experience the natural beauty of this World Heritage Area. Explore the landscape around Leura and Katoomba, view the Three Sisters, take a walk in Jamison Valley, and ride on the Scenic Railway, the steepest railway in the world.

21

Day 21: Blue Mountains/Sydney

This morning, leave the Blue Mountains behind and continue onward to Sydney. Once you arrive head out for an orientation walk before taking advantage of some free time to keep exploring. Opt to rent a bike, stroll the botanical gardens, or visit the iconic Opera House.

22

Day 22: Sydney

Get a feel for the city. Relax seaside at Bondi Beach. Enjoy an optional night out with the group.

23

Day 23: Sydney/Auckland

Say goodbye to Australia and hop on a flight to Auckland, New Zealand. After transferring from the airport, enjoy some free time to explore this vibrant city.

24

Day 24: Auckland

Enjoy a free day to explore Auckland. Visit the Maritime Museum, walk the waterfront, or even take the ferry to Waiheke Island.

25

Day 25: Auckland/Rotorua

Drive to the lakeside town of Rotorua, situated over an active geothermal zone and known for its volcanic features and rich Maori heritage. Stop en route at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Take a boat ride through this spectacular underground realm to see thousands of flickering glowworms light up in the dark.

26

Day 26: Rotorua

Visit Rotorua and opt to check out the geothermal area or go whitewater rafting. In the evening visit a Maori village for traditional ceremonies, a Hangi meal and entertainment.
Rotorua sits over an active volcanic zone with bubbling mud pits and multi-coloured pools in different areas around the town. Opt to visit one of the sites, or go whitewater rafting nearby.

27

Day 27: Rotorua/Wellington

Take in the ever-changing scenery of the North Island and travel to the capital, Wellington.

28

Day 28: Wellington

Enjoy the atmosphere in this relaxed but lively city. After an orientation walk, enjoy a free day to explore. Opt to visit the Te Papa Museum or take the cable car up to the botanical gardens.

29

Day 29: Wellington/Kaikoura

Fly to the South Island and travel to the seaside town of Kaikoura, known for its diverse marine life. Stop en route for a wine tasting at a local winery.

30

Day 30: Kaikoura/Hanmer Springs

Enjoy a free morning in Kaikoura. Opt to go on a whale watching tour and search for giant sperm whales. Or head out on a tour to swim in the open ocean in a place often visited by wild dolphins. In the afternoon, travel to Hanmer Springs. Opt to take a soak in the hot springs.

31

Day 31: Hanmer Springs/Franz Josef

Take in the stunning scenery while travelling across the Southern Alps to the rugged and remote West Coast, before staying in the rainforest near the world's fastest moving glacier.

32

Day 32: Franz Josef

Enjoy a free day to explore the area around Franz Josef. Opt to explore the glacier with a heli hike.
There are dozens of optional activities in the area to suit just about any budget and preference. Try heli hiking, scenic helicopter flights, skydiving, lake kayaking or a hot pools visit.

33

Day 33: Franz Josef/Queenstown

Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. With beautiful scenery and tons of activities, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the great night life.

34

Day 34: Queenstown

With free time here, opt to go bungee jumping (in its birthplace), jet boating (also born here!), skydiving or hiking. Or take it a little slower and travel by gondola to the top of a local peak.
Opt to pre-book the "Queenstown Jet Boating" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

35

Day 35: Queenstown

Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound on a day cruise. Take in the waterfalls and wildlife, then return to Queenstown for the night.

36

Day 36: Queenstown to Tekapo

Travel north through the centre of the South Island to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, named after New Zealand's highest peak. Spend the afternoon hiking the region, taking in the alpine scenery. Learn more about mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the Visitor's Centre, before a short but scenic journey to Tekapo Village.

37

Day 37: Tekapo to Christchurch

Continue on to Christchurch and take in an orientation walk with your CEO. Enjoy one final night together with the group.
Travel to the Garden City of Christchurch, a little piece of England in New Zealand, still recovering from a devastating earthquake.

38

Day 38: Christchurch

Depart at any time.

Tour Operator

G Adventures

G Adventures is an operator of small-group escorted tours. It is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 28 offices worldwide. It offers more than 700 itineraries in more than 100 countries, and carries 200,000 travelers from 160 countries each year.

In Business Since 1990

Reviews

 

Anna T.   -  Traveled, October 2023

This style of travel meant you could make the most out of the time you had as you didn't need to take time out for planning etc. it takes all the stress out of the planning so you can really relax and enjoy your holiday. They are organised very well and show you all the best parts of the country.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/23/2023

 

Lisa W.   -  Traveled, October 2023

I love that the group size are small and i don't have to worry about anything

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/23/2023

 

Kimberly N.   -  Traveled, October 2023

This is my 5th G Adventures trip and every one have been fantastic?from the CEOs to the itineraries to the price/ value

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/23/2023

 

Becky B.   -  Traveled, September 2023

Smaller group, lots of personal choice with meals, but with advice Ability to join the group or opt out of activities

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Douglas F.   -  Traveled, September 2023

The tour was great, but the enthusiasm and knowledge of the CEO was what put it over the top. They were the best.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Elizabeth B.   -  Traveled, September 2023

Our guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating. The places we saw were amazing !

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Joseph B.   -  Traveled, June 2024

We had a wonderful time with great guides. No complaints.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Dale D.   -  Traveled, September 2023

I enjoy the having the tour mostly planned and organized ... giving me the the opportunity to enjoy a trip without worring about making arrangments.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Rosa D.   -  Traveled, September 2023

I like the small group atmosphere. The ability to see so much of the countries we visited basically hassle free - no need to worry about transportation, excursions. And guides have considerable knowledge of the areas, so that it is an added bonus.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Dianne S.   -  Traveled, September 2023

We like small group travel and the flexibility to do what we wanted in free time in many places.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Patrick L.   -  Traveled, September 2023

Cost of meals over and above cost of trip might be prohibitive for some. The benefit of course is the flexibility to choose something of interest at mealtime though. It was generally an amazinG Adventures! Uluru add on was a bit chaotic without a representative. Initially the hotel couldn't even find my room booking.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Alain S.   -  Traveled, September 2023

Everything was wonderful

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Rosa D.   -  Traveled, September 2023

I like the small group atmosphere. The ability to see so much of the countries we visited basically hassle free - no need to worry about transportation, excursions. And guides have considerable knowledge of the areas, so that it is an added bonus.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Sandra F.   -  Traveled, September 2023

We experienced so much about the countries - culture, history, and nature. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Elizabeth B.   -  Traveled, September 2023

Our guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating. The places we saw were amazing !

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/09/2023

 

Nicholas B.   -  Traveled, August 2023

G always provides a great experience

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/26/2023

 

Ava C.   -  Traveled, July 2023

I love G Adventures because the groups are small, and for the most part, filled with open minded adventurers. Most of the guides have been super knowledgeable and fun. I think the only reason I gave it a 9 instead of a 10 was because of how much time we spent in the bus. I think in the future, I will look for more active trips, or trips with more flights. The bus was a nice was to see the country, but I didn't feel like I got enough exercise or movement on the trip. It may also be difficult depending on the type of traveler you are, as the trip requires a lot of transitions, staying only one or two nights in each location. I do wish we could have stayed longer in certain places.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/17/2023

 

Aoife D.   -  Traveled, June 2023

I would have normally given G 10:10 but this trip really disappointed me Adelaide to Melbourne section. The level of staffing was extremely disappointing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/17/2023

 

Julie B.   -  Traveled, July 2023

This style of travel is the best way to see the most of a destination in a short space of time. You get local insights and knowledge from the guides and you get to meet new people along the way and have these experiences in a group setting.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/17/2023

 

Debbie C.   -  Traveled, April 2023

I like the philosophy of the company and how it does things.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Jocelyn K.   -  Traveled, April 2023

I feel that the itinerary took us to the most popular locations in the two countries. Hotels were very clean and comfortable.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Clive C.   -  Traveled, June 2023

The style of travel served our needs - providing accommodations and transportation. along with some guiding.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Divya C.   -  Traveled, April 2023

Overall I've enjoyed my trips with G and had some fantastic experiences

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Matthew A.   -  Traveled, April 2024

Overall G has been great.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Garry H.   -  Traveled, April 2023

First and foremost, the guides! After that most of the accommodations, and finally going to places I would have missed on my own.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Rohan M.   -  Traveled, April 2023

Good value for money and see many places - balanced with lots of time in a bus (occasionally).

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Patricia H.   -  Traveled, April 2023

Some of my family and friends may not be up for the physical challenge.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/22/2023

 

Glenn G.   -  Traveled, January 2024

Itinerary was wonderful. CEO s were mostly well informed and capable.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/16/2024

 

Susan G.   -  Traveled, January 2024

Great itinerary and special experiences, excellent CEOs, safe drivers, clean, safe, comfortable accommodation, tasty, abundant breakfasts (the included ones).

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/16/2024

 

Barbara I.  -  Traveled, January 2024

The 2nd leg if the trip was very much a disappointment. Georgia was in no way suitable to call herself a CEO. She was at best a bus driver. She became defensive when she was told that people were not happy with her. We have her every chance to at least do or say something helpful or to add to our experience, but she was driver only.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/16/2024

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