Day 1 : Depart the USA

Following our included flight to Los Angeles International Airport, we meet our Tour Director and board an Air New Zealand flight bound for Australia. Enjoy tasty meals and attentive service en route to our destination.

Day 2 : Australia Bound

When we cross the International Date Line, we lose a calendar day.

Day 3 : Melbourne

After arriving in Australia, we clear customs in the charming Victorian capital, Melbourne. The remainder of the day is free to wander along Southbank’s Waterfront precinct and visit the Victorian Art Center, Crown Casino, or Chinatown.

Day 4 : Melbourne Tour & Welcome Lunch

After an included breakfast, we embark on our guided city tour of Melbourne. Some of the highlights we visit include Fitzroy Gardens, Flinders Street Station, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Queen Victoria Market, and Parliament House. Our next stop is the Royal Botanic Gardens, an integral part of this area’s biodiversity since it was founded in 1846. Here, we have time to stroll through a collection of over 8,500 species of plants from around the world. We then gather at Ludlow Bar & Restaurant for a wonderful Welcome Lunch before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 5 : Penguin Parade & Wildlife Park

This morning we drive through the picturesque Yarra Valley with views of vineyards, rolling hills, and dense forests. We stop at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery to watch the chocolatiers create over 150 different types of chocolate and delight our taste buds with a few samples. Afterwards, we visit Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, home to over 200 species of Australian birds, mammals, and reptiles set in a natural environment. We then travel to Phillip Island, a nature reserve for seals and birds. Following an included dinner, our day concludes with perhaps our most unique wildlife encounter – the world-famous penguin parade. As the sun sets over this beautiful landscape, we get an up-close and personal view of Earth’s smallest penguins as they return home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.

Day 6 : Tasmania

Our day begins with a flight to Hobart, where we begin our exploration of wild and untamed Tasmania. Nearly one third of the Island State is protected within its 14 national parks. We visit Richmond, one of Australia’s most historic villages, to take in the nostalgic charm of colonial days that’s present in the Georgian mansions, cottages, convict jail, bridge, and Catholic Church. Later, we tour Hobart and enjoy breathtaking views of the town from Mount Wellington. This evening, we check in to our hotel for the next few nights and enjoy a wonderful, included dinner.

Day 7 : Eco-Cruise & Port Arthur

Today’s adventure kicks off with a spectacular three-hour guided eco-cruise along the spectacular coastline of Tasman National Park. Experience the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, enter deep-sea caves, see playful dolphins, hundreds of seals, and abundant bird species including albatross and sea eagles. After an included lunch, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site. This settlement was a bold experiment and ground-breaking attempt to reform and rehabilitate the colony’s convicts. Port Arthur was a key part of the colonial system of convict discipline, but it was much more than just a prison. As we walk within the site, the powerful, personal stories of convicts, soldiers, and free settlers and their families reveal themselves to us.

Day 8 : Tahune AirWalk

This morning we stroll through the treetops of pristine forest at the Tahune Forest AirWalk. The steel walkway footbridge averages up to 90 feet above the forest floor with the last section, the cantilever, sitting 150 feet above the Huon River. We then enjoy a lunch of locally inspired dishes at the charming, historic Kermandie Hotel with fantastic food and views. Afterwards, we tour the picturesque Huon River Valley and visit the Wooden Boat Center to marvel at the beautiful timber boats that have been crafted by hand for 25 years before we return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 9 : Tropical Cairns

Today we depart Hobart and fly to tropical Cairns in Far North Queensland. This is the gateway city to many of Australia’s natural wonders, including the Great Barrier Reef. Our accommodations at the Crystalbrook Flynn in Cairns are adjacent to the waterfront and esplanade. This stunning five-star hotel has everything you need to enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure with three restaurants and bars, glass swimming pools, and the Eléme Day Spa and Wellness Center.

Day 10 : Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail

This morning we board the Kuranda Scenic Railway to enjoy one of the most spectacular rail excursions in the world. Our journey reveals lush, wondrous World Heritage rainforest, steep ravines, and picturesque waterfalls within Barron Gorge National Park. Later, we visit the Kuranda Koala Gardens for an opportunity to pet a koala, as well as hand-feed tamed kangaroos and wallabies. After lunch, we visit Birdworld Kuranda, a natural habitat of over 60 native species including the endangered and stately Cassowaries. There’s also time to visit the colorful Kuranda Heritage Markets before we descend the MacAlister Range on the gondola cableway, Skyrail. Listen for the sounds of the sulfur crested cockatoo, and enjoy spectacular views of the rainforest highlands, Cairns, and the Coral Sea as we glide over dense forest canopy. We then return to our luxurious hotel for the evening.

Day 11 : Great Barrier Reef & Scenic Helicopter Ride

Today we experience a top highlight of our tour, a visit to one of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef. We cruise to the outer edge of the reef and discover the world’s largest living organism. This is the largest coral reef system in the world and one of Australia’s greatest national treasures, stretching more than 1,200 miles along the coast. We view vividly colored tropical fish and coral from the reef viewer, underwater observatory, and glass-bottom boat. Learn about the fish and marine life in this underwater wonderland and enjoy breathtaking sights of the Great Barrier Reef on an included scenic helicopter flight.

Day 12 : Sydney

We fly to Sydney, Australia’s most vibrant city known for its iconic harbor front attractions. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel and enjoy individual exploration for the remainder of the day.

Day 13 : City Sights & Opera House

This morning, we embark on a city sightseeing tour to discover Sydney’s many interesting landmarks. View the famous Harbor Bridge, the longest single span bridge in the world, and enjoy a tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House, one of the greatest man-made wonders of the modern world. Other highlights of the tour include the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park, bustling Kings Cross, and popular Bondi Beach. We stop for lunch today in The Rocks, Sydney’s original city center and now one of its most affluent districts. Marvel at beautifully restored buildings and spectacular views across the harbor. This neighborhood’s quaint cobblestone pathways are home to colorful markets filled with more than 200 eclectic shops selling locally produced homewares, beauty products, and original photography, art, crafts, and jewelry. Afterwards, take time at leisure to venture out on your own or relax at the hotel.

Day 14 : Harbor Cruise

Today we enjoy Sydney’s sparkling waterfront playground during a delightful harbor cruise, sailing past pristine parks, golden beaches, and charming harborside neighborhoods. During our luncheon atop Sydney Tower, we see panoramic views of the harbor and city. Later, there’s time to visit Darling Harbor, Sydney’s popular destination for leisure and entertainment - with numerous restaurants, cafes, museums, parks, theaters, and specialty shops.

Day 15 : Christchurch, New Zealand

This morning we bid farewell to Australia and fly to Christchurch, located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. We arrive late afternoon to check in to our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 16 : Glacial Lakes & Southern Alps

This morning we travel through picturesque patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains and enter the Geraldine foothills within expansive Mackenzie Country. We stop to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd overlooking Lake Tekapo’s pristine waters, where we view the bronze statue of a sheep dog, symbolizing the important role these animals have played in the development of high-country farming. We then drive along Lake Pukaki’s shimmering, turquoise glacial waters while enjoying the spectacular backdrop of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. Our journey continues over Lindis Pass and through the tussock-covered plains of Mackenzie Country to the Fruitlands of Central Otago, famous for its summer fruit production including apricots, peaches, nectarines, and plums. Our memorable day ends at the Millennium Hotel Queenstown in the city, situated on the rippling shores of Lake Wakatipu and set against the dramatic 7,000-foot Remarkables mountains.

Day 17 : Kiwi Birdlife Park

Enjoy a private homemade breakfast featuring local produce at Kiwi Birdlife Park. Afterwards, we have the rare opportunity to meet New Zealand’s most iconic bird, the kiwi, in specially designed nocturnal houses that allow us to view them during the day. Later, we visit the historic and picturesque “gold rush” settlement of Arrowtown and stop at the Kawarau River suspension bridge, where bungee jumpers come for thrills from all over the world. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy New Zealand’s adventure capital with jet boating, golf, picturesque walks, and abundant restaurants and shops in one of the most scenic settings in the world.

Day 18 : Milford Sound Cruise

Today, we travel through an ancient ice age region by first crossing pasturelands on our way to Fiordland National Park. We journey through beech forests and the beautiful Eglinton Valley to the Homer Tunnel before descending through the spectacular Cleddau Canyon, reaching Milford Sound. Our cruise takes us past Mitre Peak, rising over 5,500 feet, as well as the phenomenal Stirling and Bowen Falls. Cascading at more than 500 feet, these falls flow from valleys formed by receding glaciers. Watch for majestic wildlife throughout our journey, such as sea lions and a variety of birds. Our accommodations tonight are in Te Anau at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel, the town nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau with a spectacular backdrop of Mount Luxmore and the Murchison Mountains.

Day 19 : Larnach Castle & Dunedin

Following breakfast, we depart Te Anau and travel through some of New Zealand’s most populated sheep country. Passing by Lumsden and Gore, we arrive in Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Enjoy a city tour to discover iconic attractions, such as Speights Brewery, the University of Otago, the world’s steepest street, and First Church of Otago. Afterwards, we visit the historic Larnach Castle & Gardens, nestled on picturesque Otago Peninsula. With its exciting and, at times, scandalous and tragic history, our guided tour of the castle and gardens offers a vision of the past and present. Marvel at magnificent carved ceilings, antiques, and breathtaking views. We then return to Dunedin for an evening at leisure.

Day 20 : Natures Wonders and Toitū Settlers Museum

Today we travel to Natures Wonders for an amazing wildlife experience. This family-owned conservation has a focus on restoring nature, with all native trees planted on the 650 acres of protected land. Throughout our guided tour, we see some of the world’s rarest penguins in their natural habitats, along with fur seals and albatross. Later, we visit the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, dedicated to telling the story of the Dunedin people whose character, culture, technology, art, fashion, and transportation shaped the surrounding area and New Zealand’s first great city. Tonight, we come together for an included dinner.

Day 21 : Lake Taupo

This morning we fly to the North Island and transfer to the quaint town of Taupo, located on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake. Taupo is home to award-winning attractions, activities, and breathtaking lake and mountain vistas. Our lodging is at Hilton Lake Taupo, featuring spacious rooms overlooking the thermally heated pool. Enjoy dinner tonight at a local favorite, Vine Eatery & Bar.

Day 22 : Orakei Korako & Māori Performance

We begin our day with a visit to Orakei Korako, one of the finest thermal areas in the world. On our walk through the Hidden Valley, we see silica terraces, boiling pools, geysers, and a geothermal cave. After lunch at leisure in Taupo’s town center, we cruise the Waikato River and witness the impressive Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most visited natural wonder. Tonight, we enjoy an authentic Māori hangi feast including a customary cooking method that prepares food in an underground pit oven, followed by powerful song and dance from the traditional culture.

Day 23 : Hobbiton™ & The Red Barn

We spend the first half of our day at Alexander Sheep & Cattle Farm in Matamata, a working sheep farm and home to Hobbiton™, The Shire™ from Middle-earth™. Our visit includes a drive through the picturesque 1,250-acre farm with spectacular views across the Kaimai Ranges and a guided tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The set has been completely rebuilt and remains as it was seen in these films. During our tour, we see Hobbit Holes™, The Green Dragon Inn™, the mill, the double-arched bridge, and other structures and gardens built for this beloved imaginary world. For lunch, we enjoy a traditional pasture-to-plate meal at The Red Barn, a 500-acre working dairy farm. Originally built at the turn of the previous century as a livery stable for horses journeying across the greater Waikato, The Red Barn showcases the very best of New Zealand cuisine and country hospitality. Later we take a pleasant drive to Cambridge in the heart of rural Waikato, a picture-perfect country town characterized by quaint charm and tree-lined streets. Tonight, we have the evening at leisure.

Day 24 : Auckland

This morning we travel to Auckland, the largest Polynesian city in the Southern Hemisphere. We visit SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, one of the city’s top attractions. Here, we view the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony display and the magical Seahorse Kingdom, then take an underwater journey to discover a diverse collection of aquatic life up close. After an included lunch, we ascend Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand, offering breathtaking views in every direction. Later, we embark on a brief sightseeing tour of the city including American’s Cup Village, lively Queen Street, and the Harbor Bridge, before heading to the airport for our evening flight to Los Angeles. We cross the International Date Line and gain a day, arriving early in the afternoon.

Day 25 : Arrive Home