Highlights of New Zealand & Australia

Your grand adventure Down Under begins today. You’ll depart from your selected airport, with one or more connecting flights along the way, before finally reaching your destination.

Kia ora – welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand!

From the moment you set foot in the airport, you’ll be greeted with the warm “kia ora”, a traditional Māori greeting meaning “hello” or “good health”. It’s a phrase you’ll hear time and time again as you travel through this welcoming land. Aotearoa is the original Māori name for New Zealand, and throughout the country, you’ll notice both English and Māori names used side by side.

After your flight, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel – the journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) is a vibrant city, alive with a rich tapestry of cultures. Its foundation lies in Māori heritage, but you’ll also sense strong influences from Polynesia, Asia, and Europe. Straddling the sweeping harbours of Waitematā and Manukau, Auckland offers a unique blend of urban life and stunning natural beauty. Home to approximately 1.7 million people—nearly a third of the country’s population—Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” thanks to the countless yachts that dot its coastline.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. We recommend a visit to Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant waterfront district bustling with cafés, bars, and restaurants, all offering gorgeous views over the water.

Be sure to get plenty of daylight and drink lots of water, as this helps your body recover from jet lag more quickly.

To give you the very best introduction to Auckland, we’ve included a three-hour city tour accompanied by a local guide, who will showcase some of the city’s highlights and offer fascinating insights into its culture and history.

Your morning will begin with a hotel pick-up. Along the way, you’ll pass the bustling Queen Street, the university, and Auckland’s oldest park, The Domain, which is beautifully laid out in and around an ancient volcanic crater.

The tour then continues through the vibrant district of Ponsonby, renowned for its historic villas and creative atmosphere. Next, you’ll cross the impressive Harbour Bridge and head to North Shore, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach with views of Waitematā Harbour and the iconic volcanic island, Rangitoto.

One of the highlights of the tour is Devonport, a charming, older neighbourhood celebrated for its beautiful architecture and stunning views from the area’s extinct volcanoes. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas over both the city and its harbour.

The final stop on your city tour is Westhaven Marina, one of the southern hemisphere’s largest marinas, where the Auckland skyline and Harbour Bridge provide a striking backdrop to the forest of masts.

You’ll return to your hotel around midday, and the rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps you’d like to visit the Sky Tower, which, at 328 metres, is New Zealand’s tallest free-standing building. From the observation deck, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and the bay.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Sky Tower offers thrilling experiences such as the SkyWalk, where you stroll around a narrow platform almost 200 metres above the ground, or the SkyJump – a controlled free fall from the tower.
For a more laid-back evening, savour your dinner at the rotating Orbit 360° restaurant, which gently revolves to give you panoramic views across Auckland.

If you’re keen for more, you can extend your city tour with a wine tour including lunch, or discover the city from the water on an atmospheric dinner cruise. Check out our optional tours below.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Auckland. Set out on new adventures or simply revisit a favourite spot from yesterday – the day’s itinerary is entirely up to you.

Auckland is home to a wealth of fascinating museums. In Domain Park, you’ll find the Auckland War Memorial Museum (Tāmaki Paenga Hira), featuring exhibitions on the nation’s history and Māori culture. Art enthusiasts should make time for the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, while those curious about maritime heritage can head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum at Viaduct Harbour to discover the country’s nautical past, spanning everything from Polynesian canoes to modern America’s Cup racers.

The city is built on the remnants of over 50 extinct volcanoes, now lush green hills offering sweeping views. Among the most popular is Mount Eden (Maungawhau), where you can take in panoramic vistas across Auckland. If you fancy a swim, Mission Bay is a lovely beach conveniently close to the city centre.

Auckland also boasts an excellent ferry network that links the city to nearby islands. Waiheke Island (Te Motu-arai-roa) is a popular choice, known for its vineyards and beautiful beaches – you can travel there independently or opt for a guided excursion with lunch at a winery. Alternatively, consider a full-day tour to the scenic Coromandel Peninsula (Te Tara-o-te-Ika-a-Māui).

Today’s itinerary features some of New Zealand’s most unique experiences: a visit to Hobbiton and the geothermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu.

From Auckland, you’ll travel by minibus with a local guide, winding your way through lush scenery towards Rotorua and the Waikato region, renowned as one of the country’s largest agricultural areas. Here, you’ll find the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, famously used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

On a guided tour lasting around 2½ hours, you’ll discover more than 40 hobbit holes and hear fascinating stories from behind the scenes of filming. The tour concludes with a refreshing drink at The Green Dragon Inn, an atmospheric pub crafted in true hobbit style.

There will be time for lunch and coffee breaks along the way (at your own expense), before the tour continues to Wai-O-Tapu. Here, the incredible forces of nature have shaped a vivid and mesmerising geothermal landscape with sights such as the Champagne Pool, crater lakes, and billowing sulphuric steam emerging from the earth. It feels almost otherworldly, and the distinctive scent of sulphur is very much part of the experience.

Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Rotorua (Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe), where the evening is yours to explore the town at your own pace.

Rotorua is renowned for its vibrant Maori culture, its picturesque location beside the lake that shares its name, and the surrounding landscape, famed for its geothermal wonders. Today is yours to spend as you please, with a wealth of different experiences to choose from.

If wildlife piques your interest, make your way to The National Kiwi Hatchery, just a 10-minute drive from the centre. Here, you’ll discover New Zealand’s elusive national bird and learn about the vital conservation work taking place behind the scenes.

For something indulgent, treat yourself to a visit to the Polynesian Spa or Wai Ariki Hot Springs, where you can relax in naturally heated pools overlooking the lake. It’s a good idea to book your session in advance.

If you’re curious about the geothermal landscape, you might like to visit Hell’s Gate, where you can experience bubbling springs, clouds of steam, and even try the famous mud spa. Alternatively, join the ‘Rotorua’s Soul’ excursion, which includes a visit to Te Puia Thermal Park to witness the awe-inspiring Pōhutu geyser, enjoy panoramic views across Blue Lake and Green Lake, and stroll through the majestic Redwood Forest.

In the evening, you have the option to join an optional tour where you will visit a local Māori community. Here, you'll gain insight into their traditions and history, enjoy a cultural performance, and end the evening with a traditional hangi dinner, cooked in an earth oven heated by hot stones.

Today, it’s time to bid farewell to Rotorua and the North Island. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport, where you’ll catch your flight south to Christchurch (Ōtautahi).

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island, home to around 400,000 people. The city was seriously affected by an earthquake in 2011 but has since risen again in remarkable fashion, now standing as an inspiring example of modern urban renewal. Historic charm meets contemporary architecture amidst lush surroundings, with countless parks and gardens—such as Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens—as well as the meandering Avon River, earning the city its nickname, 'The Garden City.'

Upon arrival, you’ll collect your hire car at the airport and drive to your motel in town, a journey of around half an hour. The remainder of the day is yours to explore as you wish.

A wonderful way to round off the day is with dinner along the Avon River in the area surrounding The Terrace and Oxford Terrace. Here you’ll find a vibrant district brimming with modern restaurants, cafés, and bars, many offering outdoor seating with views of the water. Close by is the Riverside Market, an inviting food market featuring small eateries, specialty shops, and local delicacies.

See the size and photo of your included hire car, as well as options to upgrade your car category here.

You now have two full days to explore Christchurch and its surroundings at your own pace. The city and nearby areas offer a wealth of opportunities, whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or wildlife.

If you’d like an introduction to the city, you can book an optional guided city tour, but you can just as easily set out and discover it on your own. A ride on the historic tram, which loops through the centre, is a charming way to see the city’s main attractions. Alternatively, you could view the city from the water on a romantic trip aboard a gondola-style boat, gently punted along the Avon River.

A stroll through the botanical gardens is highly recommended, and right next door you’ll find the Canterbury Museum, where you can delve into the region’s history, from Māori culture and European discoveries to natural sciences and Antarctic expeditions. If you have an interest in art, be sure to visit the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, which showcases both New Zealand and international contemporary art.

Christchurch is also a superb base for day trips in the region. Hanmer Springs is famed for its thermal pools and laid-back atmosphere, while Akaroa entices visitors with its French charm and beautiful surroundings. From Akaroa, you can take a nature cruise and, if you’re lucky, spot the rare Hector’s dolphin, seals, and little blue penguins. Further north lies Kaikoura, renowned for its whale watching tours, where you stand a good chance of seeing sperm whales and more in their natural habitat.

We recommend booking tickets for boat trips in Akaroa and Kaikoura in advance, as these spots are often in high demand.

Your road trip adventure truly begins today, with breathtaking natural wonders awaiting you.

Setting out from Christchurch, you'll drive through the rolling Canterbury Plains and onwards towards the highlands and the snow-capped Southern Alps. A highly recommended stop is at Lake Tekapo (Takapō), famed for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, and the charming stone Church of the Good Shepherd.

From here, your journey continues along the shores of Lake Pukaki (Pūkahaki), where the impressive sight of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook (Aoraki), gradually appears on the horizon at 3,724 metres.

You’ll arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you have the rest of the day at your leisure. One of the highlights is a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, named after the legendary New Zealand mountaineer. Alongside Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, Hillary became the first person ever to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953. Hillary had strong connections to the Mount Cook region, where he spent time training and scaling several of New Zealand’s highest peaks.

Mount Cook Village is a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike, with a variety of trails to suit every level of ability. Options include the Kea Point Track (easy, approx. 3 km), the Tasman Glacier View Track (easy, approx. 2.5 km), and the Hooker Valley Track (easy, approx. 10 km). 

We recommend visiting the national park’s information centre upon arrival, where you can get the latest updates on routes, weather conditions, and safety.

In the evening, you may be lucky enough to experience one of the world’s clearest night skies—either on your own or as part of a guided stargazing tour in the Aoraki/Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.

Remember to fill up the car and stock up on supplies before entering the national park, as availability is limited and prices are higher once inside.

Driving distance: Christchurch – Aoraki/Mt Cook approximately 330 km
Drive time: around 4.5 hours (without stops)

Before leaving the Mount Cook area, you might like to consider booking an optional boat trip on the Tasman Lake. Here, you’ll come up close to small icebergs and the Tasman Glacier – the largest glacier in New Zealand.
You also have the chance to see the region from above with a helicopter flight, weather permitting. We recommend booking this unforgettable experience locally upon arrival.

As hard as it may be to say farewell to the majestic scenery, a wealth of new experiences awaits you on the road to Queenstown.

The route takes you via Twizel, where a stop at High Country Salmon is highly recommended. Here, you can savour freshly caught salmon or simply relax and enjoy the view over the fishery.

From here, your journey will continue through the golden highlands and past Omarama, before the road winds its way over the impressive Lindis Pass – a sweeping mountain range with gentle hills stretching as far as the eye can see.

Your next stop could be Cromwell, nestled in the heart of one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Heading further south, you’ll pass through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where the river carves its way through striking rock formations. Along the way, you can drop in at the Goldfields Mining Centre to try your hand at gold panning, or stop at the Kawarau Bridge, famed for daring bungy jumps.

As you approach Queenstown (Tāhuna), the landscape unfolds before you and the deep blue waters of Lake Wakatipu (Wakatipu Waimāori) reveal themselves at the foot of the iconic Remarkables mountains.

Driving distance: Aoraki/Mt Cook – Queenstown approx. 260 km
Driving time: approx. 3.5 hours (without stops)

Queenstown is renowned as New Zealand’s adventure capital, and if you’re a thrill-seeker, there’s hardly a better place to be. This is where the world’s first commercial bungy jump took place, and today you can try everything from jet boating and river rafting to skydiving and paragliding. But the town offers much more than just adrenaline rushes. You’ll also discover tranquillity amid breath-taking scenery, exceptional wines, and a wealth of culinary delights – in short, there’s something here for everyone.

The town centre is charming and easy to navigate, with little shops, galleries, and a wide range of restaurants clustered around lively Shotover Street. A stroll along the waterfront at Marine Parade comes highly recommended, and you’ll also find the tourist information centre here, ideal for gathering inspiration for adventures in and around the area.

A classic experience is to take the historic gondola up to Bob’s Peak. From here, you’re treated to an incredible view over Lake Wakatipu and the mountains beyond, where The Remarkables dominate the skyline. At the top, you can enjoy lunch or have a go on the fun luge track – a sort of wheeled toboggan.

If you're keen to explore the great outdoors on foot, you can follow the walking track from Bob’s Peak to Ben Lomond Saddle, or even venture all the way to the summit of Ben Lomond itself. This self-guided hike promises breathtaking views over Queenstown’s alpine scenery. The round trip from Bob’s Peak to the summit and back takes approximately five to six hours. If you set off from the town centre, allow an extra two to three hours. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, dress appropriately for changing weather, and pack plenty of water and snacks. Do keep in mind that weather conditions in the mountains can shift rapidly.

Another unforgettable experience is a visit to Milford Sound, where you’ll cruise along the stunning fjord, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Many travellers describe this as one of the absolute highlights of New Zealand. If you’re driving yourself, we recommend booking cruise tickets in advance as it’s a long day out and spaces fill up quickly. Alternatively, you can opt for an organised tour with a guide and transport included, allowing you to simply sit back and soak up the spectacular scenery.

In addition, we offer a range of optional tours that you can add to your experience, tailored to your individual interests.

Today, the journey continues to Franz Josef, renowned for its nearby glacier of the same name. The route takes you through some of the South Island’s most breathtaking scenery, with majestic mountains, serene lakes, and lush rainforest. There are plenty of perfect opportunities to stop along the way.

If you choose the scenic Crown Range Road, you could take a break at the historic Cardrona Hotel, home to one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic pubs. Another popular stop is Wanaka, where you’ll find the famous tree in the lake, known as That Wanaka Tree. The town also boasts a charming lakefront promenade and excellent cafés – ideal for a relaxing pause.

As you pass through Mount Aspiring National Park, you might enjoy a short walk along the Blue Pools Track, which leads you through beech forest to crystal-clear, turquoise pools. A little further on, you can stop to capture a photo at Thunder Creek Falls, a 28-metre-high waterfall surrounded by lush woodland.

Your drive continues across the Haast Pass towards the wild and verdant west coast, where the scenery grows greener and more dramatic. Before arriving in Franz Josef, we recommend a stop at Lake Matheson (Te Ara Kairaumati), famous for its stunning reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on the lake’s surface. You’ll also find the Te Kopikopiko o te Waka viewpoint here, which on a clear day offers spectacular views of the Fox Glacier.

Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Franz Josef, a small town set amidst lush rainforest and dramatic mountain scenery. The glacier here was named in 1865 by the geologist Julius von Haast, in honour of the Austrian Emperor Franz Josef I.

Driving distance: Queenstown – Franz Josef approx. 350 km

Driving time: approx. 5 hours (without stops)

The Franz Josef Glacier has been shaped over tens of thousands of years, its origins in snow that has gathered high in the mountains and, over time, compressed into solid ice. The glacier is also known by its Māori name, Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, which translates as Hine Hukatere’s Tears. According to legend, Hine Hukatere lost her beloved in the mountains, and her tears froze to become the very glacier you see today.

Like many glaciers around the world, Franz Josef has dramatically retreated due to climate change, and it’s no longer possible to walk straight onto the ice from the valley floor. However, you can still get remarkably close to the glacier from dedicated viewpoints, or take in the breathtaking scenery on a helicopter flight.

The town of Franz Josef offers a cosy selection of cafés, boutique shops, galleries, and the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you can discover more about the region’s wildlife—including the rare rowi kiwi.

This area is blessed with several picturesque walking tracks. The classic Franz Josef Glacier Walk leads you to a superb viewing point with panoramic vistas over the glacier. The route is easily accessible, being roughly 1.5 km round trip from the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, situated about 4.5 km from the town. Another short jaunt is the Peters Pool Track, where after a brief stroll, you’ll reach a small lake that, on clear days, beautifully reflects the mountains and glacier.

If you want to get even closer, you can join a guided walk through the valley, or opt for a helicopter tour that lands directly on the glacier itself. For a more hands-on adventure, the popular heli-hike combines an exhilarating helicopter ride with a guided trek across the ice, led by an experienced guide.

Today, you’ll make your way back towards Christchurch. Driving north along the West Coast, the road meanders through lush rainforest and passes by quaint villages.

A popular place to stop is Hokitika, famous for its crafts and jewellery made from the greenstone pounamu (jade). You might also like to take a short break on the beach and savour the views of the wild Tasman Sea.

From here, your journey will continue towards Kumara Junction, where you’ll turn inland through Arthur’s Pass National Park. The scenery shifts dramatically, with the rainforest giving way to alpine shrubland and steep mountains. At the Otira Viaduct Lookout, you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of the impressive viaduct as it winds through the valley. Keep an eye out for kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, which is often spotted here.

Arthur’s Pass Village is an ideal spot to pause for lunch. If time permits, enjoy a short walk to Devils Punchbowl Falls, an awe-inspiring waterfall tumbling 131 metres.

Further east lies Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti), where giant limestone boulders are scattered across the landscape. This place exudes a magical atmosphere and has been featured in films such as The Lord of the Rings and Narnia.

From Castle Hill, your journey will continue through the farmlands of Canterbury, before you arrive in Christchurch.

As a special optional extra, you can drop off your hire car in Greymouth and take the train the rest of the way to Christchurch. Here, you’ll board the famous TranzAlpine train, considered one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world.

If you choose this option, you’ll drive from Franz Josef via Hokitika to Greymouth, where you’ll return your hire car and continue by train to Christchurch. You will therefore not visit the stops described after Hokitika.

Driving distance: Franz Josef – Christchurch approx. 385 km

Driving time: approx. 6 hours (without stops)

It’s time to bid farewell to New Zealand and continue your adventure in Australia. You’ll return your car at Christchurch Airport before flying to Sydney.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. If your room isn’t ready, you can store your luggage at the hotel while you start exploring the city.

We recommend heading straight for Sydney’s vibrant harbourfront. Here, you can admire Utzon’s world-famous Opera House, beautifully framed by the Sydney Harbour Bridge when viewed from the right angle – one of the world’s most impressive steel arch bridges. Since 2007, the Opera House has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is today considered one of the most iconic architectural masterpieces in the world.

Sydney is built around the world’s largest natural harbour, and the water is always alive with activity. Ferries shuttle commuters between the suburbs and the city centre, water taxis zip across the bay, sailing boats glide through the water with the wind in their sails, and majestic cruise ships frequently dock in the harbour.

When hunger strikes, Sydney is a true paradise for food lovers. Around Circular Quay, King Street Wharf, and Darling Harbour, you’ll find a wonderful selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars – all offering stunning views across the harbour.

To give you a great introduction to Sydney, we’ve included a half-day guided city tour. You’ll be taken around to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, lush parks, and stunning coastal areas. Along the way, you’ll also get a feel for some of Sydney’s many exciting neighbourhoods and suburbs, each with its own distinct charm.

During the tour, you’ll experience highlights such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Garden, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, Hyde Park, Chinatown, and Bondi Beach. At Bondi Beach, you’ll have free time to feel the sand between your toes, watch the lively surfers, or enjoy a cup of coffee overlooking the iconic shoreline.

The city tour will begin from your hotel or a nearby pick-up point (see details on your voucher) and ends at Circular Quay. From here, you can easily continue exploring the city – perhaps with a visit to the Opera House right next door or a leisurely lunch cruise on Sydney’s beautiful harbour.

Circular Quay is both the city’s busy ferry terminal and the starting point for boats heading to the surrounding suburbs. For example, take a trip to the beautiful Manly Beach and enjoy the rest of the day by the sea, or visit Taronga Zoo, one of Australia’s most famous zoological gardens. Here, you can see animals from all over the world – including Australia’s own unique wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and the fascinating platypus.

If you’d like to experience the city from above, challenge yourself with an adrenaline-fuelled climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge or visit Sydney Tower. Standing 309 metres tall, it’s the city’s highest building and offers one of Sydney’s most spectacular views. From the Sydney Tower Eye observation deck, you can enjoy an impressive 360-degree panorama of the city. On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the Blue Mountains on the horizon.

Enjoy a full day to explore Sydney at your own pace. Australia’s largest city offers an incredible array of experiences – from iconic landmarks and fascinating museums to beautiful beaches and breathtaking natural scenery.

Discover more about Australia’s nature and wildlife at the Australian Museum, uncover Sydney’s past at the Museum of Sydney, admire modern art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, or delve into the country’s maritime history at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

If you fancy something a little more active, we highly recommend the popular coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi. This scenic 7 km trail winds its way along dramatic cliffs, charming bays, and some of Sydney’s most beloved beaches.

You can also add exciting optional excursions both in and beyond Sydney. Choose from guided walking or cycling tours around the city, or join a day trip to the spectacular Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest and most renowned wine region.

Sometimes, though, the simplest moments are the most memorable. Pick up a sandwich, find a bench in the Royal Botanic Garden, and take in the magnificent view of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour as the sun sets and the city hums softly around you.

See the excursion options below. We recommend booking them together with your tour, as they often sell out quickly.

Today, you'll leave Sydney behind and head for the Australian Outback. After the city’s high-rise buildings, busy streets, and waterfront, Australia’s red heart awaits, along with the small, laid-back town of Yulara, which will serve as your base during your stay in the vast desert.

Out here, you’ll often come across the word Palya – a word from the language of the Anangu people, which is used as a greeting and can mean hello, welcome, thank you, or goodbye.

When you land at Uluru/Ayers Rock Airport, the free shuttle bus will take you to your hotel in around 15 minutes.

You can spend the rest of the afternoon by the hotel pool, or perhaps take part in one of the free activities on offer in Yulara. Ask at the hotel what’s on the schedule during your stay.

Yulara is small and easy to get around. A free shuttle bus runs approximately every 20 minutes between the hotels, the town square, the visitor centre, the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA), and the camel farm, among other stops. This means you can easily make use of the resort’s other restaurants, shops, and facilities.

Late in the afternoon, one of the tour’s absolute highlights awaits: watching the sunset over Uluru. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to a viewpoint with an unobstructed view of the mighty rock.

Uluru holds great cultural and spiritual significance for the Anangu people, the traditional owners of the area. Watch as Uluru gradually changes in appearance and colour as the sun moves towards the horizon and the red and orange hues deepen.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and some light snacks.

After sunset, you’ll be driven back to Yulara, and the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace.

Today, you'll set the pace, with the day free for more experiences in Australia’s Red Centre.

There’s a wide range of tours and activities to choose from, so if there’s a particular experience you’d like to take away from Uluru, we recommend booking it alongside your tour.

It’s well worth setting your alarm early. Sunrise in the Red Centre is every bit as fascinating as yesterday’s sunset, and there are several different ways to experience it.

For example, you can watch the sunrise at Uluru before continuing to Kata Tjuta. Here, a short but fascinating walk through Walpa Gorge awaits, taking you between enormous domed rocks. If you prefer a more leisurely start to the day, you can instead watch the sun rise over the desert from the top of a sand dune. You’ll be served an Australian breakfast before continuing to selected sites around Uluru.

If you’re keen on a longer hike, you can join the approximately 12-kilometre Uluru Base Walk around the entire rock. This brings you up close to Uluru, while also giving you the chance to learn more about the rock’s significance to the Anangu people and some of the stories connected with the area.

The tours start early, so you’ll be back in Yulara before the hottest part of the day. For the rest of the day, you can relax by the pool, enjoy a short afternoon nap in the shade, or explore some of the free activities in Yulara.

There’s plenty to experience after sunset too, and we highly recommend spending your final evening beneath the open sky in the Australian Outback.

With Wintjiri Wiru, you can watch the Anangu people’s Mala story come to life in the night sky through drones, lights, and sound. You can also combine dinner beneath the stars with a walk through the more than 50,000 lights in the Field of Light.

Another option is Sounds of Silence, where dinner in the desert and the southern night sky take centre stage. And if you would like to end your stay with a little extra indulgence, you can choose Tali Wiru, where an exclusive dinner and carefully selected Australian wines are served in an intimate setting on a sand dune overlooking the desert landscape.

Whatever you choose, you’ll have wonderful opportunities to enjoy another memorable evening in Australia’s red heart.

Today, your tour will continue back to the east coast – this time heading to northern Queensland. The complimentary shuttle bus will take you from your hotel to the airport, where you'll catch your flight to Cairns.

The contrasts could hardly be greater: after days spent in the red desert, you’ll now arrive in the tropical north, where Cairns serves as the gateway to both the world’s oldest rainforest and the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. The city itself is charming and laid-back, with a great selection of shops and restaurants.

A highly recommended activity is to visit the man-made lagoon in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim – it’s a popular meeting spot for both locals and visitors alike.

Please note that flights from Uluru to Cairns often have a connecting flight along the way. For a supplementary price, it is possible to fly direct on certain days. Speak to your travel specialist for further details and prices.

You will have the next two days free to explore the tropical delights of northern Queensland. The region is brimming with things to see and do, and we recommend booking any excursions in advance, as places are often in high demand.

To the north of Cairns lies the Daintree Rainforest, which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. The rainforest is thought to be over 135 million years old, making it the oldest in the world. Here, the jungle meets the sea at Cape Tribulation – renowned as one of the most breathtaking and unique natural areas in Australia. The contrast of lush, dense jungle and pristine white sandy beaches creates a magical setting, making this the perfect spot for a day trip.

Another popular excursion is to the charming mountain village of Kuranda. You'll ascend through the rainforest on the scenic Kuranda Railway and return on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding over the treetops for spectacular views of the landscape. In Kuranda itself, you can browse cosy markets, quaint cafés, and galleries before heading back to Cairns.

We highly recommend taking a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef—an absolute must when visiting this part of the world. There are plenty of ways to discover the wonders beneath the waves. You could snorkel among vibrant fish, dive down to the spectacular coral formations, or opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour, admiring the reef without getting wet. However you choose to experience it, coming face to face with this extraordinary natural wonder is truly unforgettable.

It’s time to say farewell to Australia. You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport, where your journey home begins. Your flight will take you to your selected airport, with one or more connecting flights along the way.

You will arrive back in Europe with your backpack brimming with unforgettable experiences and memories from your adventure in New Zealand and Australia.