Embark on an unforgettable journey across the iconic landscapes of Australia and New Zealand with our 15-Day Icons itinerary. Experience the vibrant cityscape of Sydney, the majestic beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, the cultural richness of Rotorua’s Māori heartland, and the breathtaking vistas of Queenstown. This adventure promises to immerse you in the essence of Down Under with private transfers, exclusive tours, and luxurious accommodations, showcasing the best highlights of these two incredible countries.
Welcome to Sydney! After collecting your luggage, you will be transferred to your accommodation where you will spend the next two nights. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure.
Embark on a day of discovery with the Essential Sydney Tour, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and captivating stories. As the sun begins to set, transition into a world of elegance and leisure with a luxurious 2-hour sunset cruise around Circular Quay. Witness the hues of the sky transform, casting a mesmerizing backdrop as you conclude your day in absolute relaxation and style.
Swap cityscapes for sun-kissed shores with a flight from Sydney to Cairns. A short drive from Cairns brings you to Palm Cove, a postcard-perfect destination between the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. The next day, dive into an enchanting underwater world on the Evolution Gold Class Great Barrier Reef experience, snorkeling alongside vibrant coral and marine life.
Prepare for an enchanting journey through Kuranda, starting with iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through rugged mountains and lush valleys. Encounter adorable koalas at Koala Gardens and soar above the rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. The following day, board a flight from Cairns to Uluru, where breathtaking landscapes of the outback await.
On today's adventure, you join your SEIT Outback Guide to explore Australia's most profound and culturally significant monolith. Witness the ancient Kata Tjuta rock formations as they stand proudly in the Australian Outback. In the afternoon, journey towards the base of Uluru where you'll learn about the rich history and spiritual significance of this sacred site, learning about its creation stories and the unique flora and fauna.
Leaving Uluru behind and arriving in Sydney for your Trans-Tasman flight into Auckland is a transition from the tranquil heart of Australia to the vibrant energy of New Zealand's largest city. After spending a night in Auckland, you'll embark on the Hobbiton Express where you'll enjoy an immersive guided exploration of the iconic movie set before arriving in Rotorua.
With a morning to spare in Rotorua, immerse yourself in the city's unique blend of Māori culture and geothermal wonders. As the sun sets, your cultural odyssey continues with the TE PA TU experience, where you'll engage in an evening filled with traditions, storytelling, performances and cuisine that encapsulates the essence of Māori heritage. The next day, you'll cross over from the North Island to the South Island on a flight to Queenstown.
A private guided tour of Milford Sound is a truly immersive experience in one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders. With a knowledgeable guide, you'll delve deep into Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon reaching Milford Sound, you'll embark on a cruise, gliding past dramatic cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and marine life.
Embark on a half-day wine tour departing from Queenstown, a gateway to New Zealand's renowned wine regions. Sip on exceptional local wines, including world-class Pinot Noir, and nibble on gourmet delights at select vineyards and wineries. Bid farewell to Queenstown and fly to Christchurch, also known as the 'Garden City'. Marvel at the city's renewal from the historically accurate restoration of the art center to the vibrancy of the Riverside Markets or take a stroll around Hagley Park and the Botanical Gardens.
As you board your private transfer from your accommodation to the Christchurch International Airport, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories created during your journey, leaving with a heart full of awe for Australia and New Zealand's unparalleled beauty and boundless experiences.