Australia and New Zealand Tour
5830 EUR
21 Days | 2 Countries | 6 Cities
Experience the very best of Australia and New Zealand on this immersive journey through vibrant cities, tropical islands, dramatic fjords, and geothermal wonders — seamlessly connected with flights, guided tours, and handpicked stays.
Whats Included:
Sightseeing tours and cruises:
Melbourne City Highlights Walking Tour:
Discover the vibrant culture and hidden gems of Melbourne on a guided walking tour through the city’s iconic laneways and arcades. Stroll past historic landmarks like Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, admire ever-changing street art, and explore boutique cafés and local shops. Your guide brings Melbourne’s history, architecture, and café culture to life, offering an immersive introduction to Australia’s cultural capital.Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour:
Experience one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife encounters on a full-day guided tour to Phillip Island. Travel through scenic coastal landscapes, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, and see seals lounging along the rocky shoreline at The Nobbies. As the sun sets, witness the magical Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore to their burrows—a truly unforgettable natural spectacle.Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruise:
Sail through the turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Islands on a half-day cruise to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Relax on the pristine white sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy scenic viewpoints that capture the unique beauty of Hill Inlet. Onboard refreshments and time to explore the beach at leisure make this a perfect introduction to the Whitsundays’ tropical charm.Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Adventure:
Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day excursion from Hamilton Island. Cruise to the outer reef at Hardy Reef and explore vibrant coral gardens and marine life by snorkeling or from the underwater observatory. Enjoy a relaxed buffet lunch onboard, sunbathe on the pontoon, or simply take in the stunning reef surroundings for a once-in-a-lifetime marine experience.Sydney Panoramic City Tour & Harbour Cruise:
Explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks on a guided half-day city tour, passing through Bondi Beach, Woolloomooloo, and Kings Cross. Admire panoramic views from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and take photos of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. In the late afternoon / evening, enjoy a 3-course dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour, sailing past illuminated waterfronts while enjoying local cuisine and unparalleled views of the city skyline by night.Blue Mountains Scenic World & Wildlife Tour:
Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Blue Mountains on a full-day guided tour. Ride the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway for panoramic views of the Jamison Valley, visit Echo Point to see the iconic Three Sisters, and explore rainforest boardwalks. Stop at a wildlife park to meet kangaroos and koalas, and enjoy lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery, combining adventure, nature, and local wildlife in one immersive day.Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo Full-Day Tour:
Travel from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park on a full-day guided tour, passing turquoise lakes, rolling plains, and snow-capped peaks. Visit Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd before exploring Mount Cook at your own pace. Optional walks include the Hooker Valley Track, offering stunning glacier views, while your guide shares the history and natural wonders of New Zealand’s highest mountains.Skyline Gondola & Bob’s Peak, Queenstown:
Ascend above Queenstown on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak, where panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountains await. Optional luge rides and observation decks provide fun and adventure, while the surrounding area offers time to relax and enjoy Queenstown’s alpine beauty.Milford Sound Early Bird Coach & Cruise:
Journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound on a full-day coach and cruise experience through Fiordland National Park. Pass dramatic valleys, glacial lakes, and waterfalls before boarding a scenic cruise through the fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush rainforest. Look for wildlife such as seals and dolphins, and enjoy commentary that highlights the natural and cultural history of this breathtaking region.Hobbiton, Wai-O-Tapu & Rotorua Full-Day Tour:
Experience the North Island’s highlights on a full-day tour from Auckland. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set and explore the charming Hobbit Holes and gardens from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Continue to Rotorua to discover the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu, including bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and vibrant mineral lakes, while learning about the region’s Māori heritage and natural phenomena.Waiheke Island Wine & Dine Experience:
Take a scenic ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island and enjoy a guided wine tour of boutique vineyards set among rolling hills and coastal landscapes. Sample local varietals such as Chardonnay and Syrah, enjoy a leisurely vineyard lunch with ocean views, and explore olive groves and island scenery before returning to Auckland in the afternoon.Hotels:
Melbourne – Sofitel Melbourne on Collins
Hamilton Island – Reef View Hotel (Waterview Room)
Sydney – Paradox Sydney Hotel (King Bed Room)
Christchurch – Sudima Christchurch City (King Bed Room)
Queenstown – Kamana Lakehouse (King Bed Room)
Auckland – The Grand by SkyCity (King Bed Room)Flights:
Melbourne → Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island → Sydney
Sydney → Christchurch
Christchurch → Queenstown
Queenstown → AucklandPrivate Transfers: All airport arrivals and departures
PRICE:
Tour price is 5830 EUR per person.
Please note that we don't begin confirming your services until the itinerary is booked and a deposit has been paid. Availability can change quickly, and so tweaks to your pricing may occur in the event that we are unable to secure any of the included items once the itinerary is finalized.
ITINERARY:
Day 1 - Feb 4, 2027 - Melbourne
Welcome to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, known for its vibrant laneways, café culture, and blend of historic and modern architecture. Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel, ideally located in the heart of the city.
Later, set out on a guided Melbourne city highlights walking tour (approx. 3 hours, typically starting around 2:00 PM). Explore the city’s famous laneways filled with ever-changing street art, hidden cafés, and boutique arcades. Stroll past key landmarks including Federation Square and Flinders Street Station, and uncover the stories behind Melbourne’s transformation into one of the world’s most livable cities. Your guide will share insights into the city’s history, architecture, and thriving food and coffee scene, offering a perfect introduction to Melbourne’s unique character.
Hotel: Sofitel Melbourne on Collins
Day 2 - Feb 5, 2027 - Melbourne - Philipp Island
Today, embark on a full-day guided journey to Phillip Island, one of Australia’s most beloved wildlife destinations. Your tour begins with a late morning or early afternoon departure from Melbourne (typically between 11:45 AM – 1:45 PM) and continues for approximately 9.5–12 hours, returning late in the evening.
Travel through scenic coastal landscapes as you head towards the island. Along the way, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can walk along elevated boardwalks and observe koalas in their natural habitat. Continue to the Nobbies coastal area, known for its dramatic ocean views and seal colonies, before arriving at the highlight of the day.
At sunset, witness the world-famous Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach to their burrows. This magical wildlife experience is one of Australia’s most unique and memorable natural spectacles.
Return to Melbourne later in the evening after an unforgettable day immersed in Australia’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Day 3 - Feb 6, 2027 - Melbourne
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Melbourne at your own pace. You may choose to wander through Queen Victoria Market, explore the city’s thriving café culture, or take an optional excursion along the Great Ocean Road or into the Yarra Valley wine region.
Day 4 - Feb 7, 2027 - Hamilton Island
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hamilton Island (9:30-2:10 PM with 1h stopover in Sydney), located in the heart of the Whitsundays. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, offering stunning views over the Coral Sea.
Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking in the tropical surroundings, relaxing by the beach, or enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere.
Hotel: Reef View Hotel – Waterview Room
Day 5 - Feb 8, 2027 - Hamilton Island
Today, embark on an unforgettable journey to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, one of the most extraordinary natural wonders on Earth. Departing from Hamilton Island in the morning (typically around 9:00 AM, returning approximately 5:00 PM, duration ~8 hours), you will cruise through the Whitsunday Islands before heading out to the outer reef at Hardy Reef.
Upon arrival at the permanently moored Reefworld pontoon, you will have up to four hours to explore this vibrant underwater world at your own pace. Snorkel directly from the platform into crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish and colorful coral formations, or, if you prefer to stay dry, enjoy the underwater observatory or a guided semi-submarine experience offering close-up views of the reef below.
Throughout the day, enjoy a relaxed and well-paced experience with morning tea, a buffet lunch, and afternoon refreshments served onboard. The spacious pontoon also provides areas to relax, sunbathe, or simply take in the surrounding beauty of the reef.
As the day draws to a close, cruise back through the Whitsundays, arriving in the late afternoon with unforgettable memories of this once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 6-7 - Feb 9-10, 2027 - Hamilton Island
Today, experience the breathtaking beauty of the Whitsundays on a half-day cruise through one of Australia’s most iconic island regions. Depart from Daydream Island in the morning departure (around 9.00AM).
Cruise through the turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Islands, passing lush tropical landscapes and secluded bays as your vessel makes its way to the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Whitehaven is famous for its brilliant white silica sand and crystal-clear waters.
Spend up to two hours on the beach, where you can swim, relax on the soft sand, or take a short walk along the shoreline. Optional guided walks may lead you to scenic viewpoints overlooking the coastline, while onboard refreshments such as morning or afternoon tea are included to enhance the experience.
Return to your hotel in the early afternoon or evening, with the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere.
On Day 7 enjoy a free day to unwind and enjoy Hamilton Island at your own pace. Relax on Catseye Beach, explore scenic walking trails, or take part in optional activities such as kayaking, sailing, or spa treatments.
Day 8 - Feb 11, 2027 - Sydney
Fly to Sydney (1:00 – 3:20 PM approx. 2.5 hours) and upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to hotel ideally located for exploring the city.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy — perhaps take a walk around Circular Quay or dine overlooking the iconic harbour.
Hotel: Paradox Sydney Hotel
Day 9 - Feb 12, 2027 - Sydney
Today, discover the very best of Sydney on a guided panoramic city tour, followed by an unforgettable evening on the harbour. Begin your day with a half-day guided bus tour (duration ~3.5–4 hours, typically starting around 10:00 AM) from central Sydney.
Travel through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods as your guide shares insights into Sydney’s history and lifestyle. Pass through areas such as Woolloomooloo and Kings Cross, enjoy scenic coastal views at Watsons Bay, and stop at Bondi Beach where you’ll have time to walk along the shoreline or relax by the ocean. Continue through elegant harbourside suburbs and enjoy photo stops at key viewpoints, including Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, offering one of the best panoramas of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The tour concludes near the Opera House, perfectly positioned for further exploration.
In the evening, experience Sydney Harbour from a completely different perspective on a 3-course dinner cruise (duration ~2 hours, typically departing around 5:00–5:30 PM). Board your vessel at Darling Harbour or Circular Quay and set sail as the sun begins to set over the city skyline. As you glide across the harbour, enjoy uninterrupted views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and illuminated waterfront. A freshly prepared three-course dinner is served onboard, creating a relaxed and elegant atmosphere as you take in one of the world’s most beautiful harbours by night.
Day 10-11 - Feb 13-14, 2027 - Sydney
Today, journey beyond Sydney to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Blue Mountains on a full-day guided experience. Your day begins with an early morning departure from central Sydney (typically between 6:45 – 7:05 AMdepending on pickup location), traveling in a comfortable small-group vehicle toward this UNESCO World Heritage region (total duration ~10 hours).
Arriving ahead of the crowds, enjoy priority access to Scenic World, where you will experience a series of unique rides including the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway, offering spectacular views over the Jamison Valley, lush rainforest, and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Take a guided walk along the rainforest boardwalk and learn about the region’s unique ecosystem and eucalyptus forests.
Continue to Echo Point to admire the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks, while your guide shares the Aboriginal legends and cultural significance behind it. Throughout the day, you will also visit additional scenic lookouts across the Blue Mountains, offering sweeping panoramic views over valleys and waterfalls.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the mountains before continuing your journey with a visit to a wildlife park, where you can encounter native Australian animals including kangaroos and koalas up close.
In the afternoon, return to Sydney in a unique way with a scenic ferry cruise along the Parramatta River, passing beneath the Harbour Bridge and arriving at Circular Quay in the early evening (around 5:00 PM), concluding a day filled with natural beauty and unforgettable views.
On Day 11 enjoy free day in Sydney.
Day 12-13 - Feb 15-16, 2027 - Christchurch
Today, depart Australia and fly across the Tasman Sea to Christchurch (approx. 3–3.5 hours), the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island. Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred to a modern and centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
On Day 13 Today, embark on one of the most scenic journeys in New Zealand with a full-day guided tour to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel (typically between 6:15 – 6:40 AM), departing Christchurch in a small group for a full-day experience of approximately 12–13 hours.
Travel across the vast Canterbury Plains as your guide shares insights into the region’s history, agriculture, and landscapes. Along the way, stop at the breathtaking Lake Tekapo, famous for its striking turquoise waters and alpine setting. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, set against a backdrop of mountains and open skies.
Continue past the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki, where on clear days you will enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand. Upon arrival in Mount Cook National Park, enjoy approximately 2–3 hours to explore at your own pace.
In the late afternoon, begin your return journey to Christchurch, arriving in the evening (approximately 6:30 – 7:00 PM), after an unforgettable day immersed in New Zealand’s most iconic alpine scenery.
Hotel: Sudima Christchurch City
Day 14-15 - Feb 17-18, 2027 - Queenstown
Fly to Queenstown (at 10-11AM approx. 1 hour), set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel offering panoramic lake and mountain views.
On Day 15 Begin your day with a ride on the Skyline Gondola, ascending above Queenstown to Bob’s Peak. As you rise above Lake Wakatipu, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Remarkables range, and the vibrant town below.
At the top, you may choose to enjoy optional luge rides or simply relax and take in the scenery from one of the most spectacular viewpoints in New Zealand. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to explore Queenstown at your own pace — whether strolling along the lakefront, enjoying local cafés, or taking in the alpine atmosphere.
Hotel: Kamana Lakehouse
Day 16-17 - Feb 19-20, 2027 - Queenstown
Today, experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders on a full-day journey to Milford Sound. Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel (typically around 6:30 – 7:00 AM), departing Queenstown by comfortable coach for a full-day experience of approximately 12–13 hours.
Travel through the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park, one of the most scenic regions in the world. Along the way, enjoy multiple photo stops as you pass through glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery. A short break is typically made in Te Anau before continuing along the famous Milford Road, where every turn reveals spectacular views.
Upon arrival at Milford Sound, board a scenic cruise through the fjord (approximately 1.5–2 hours), surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and native birdlife as you glide through this extraordinary landscape.
Throughout the day, enjoy a relaxed and immersive experience with onboard commentary and scenic stops that allow you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Return journey to Queenstown, arriving in the evening (approximately 6:30 – 7:30 PM).
On Day 17 free day in Queenstown.
Day 18 - Feb 21, 2027 - Auckland
Today, fly from Queenstown to Auckland (at 10-11AM approx. 1 hour 50 minutes), arriving in New Zealand’s largest and most vibrant city. Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred to hotel a centrally located 5-star hotel in the heart of Auckland.
The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax or begin exploring the city. You may wish to take a walk along the Viaduct Harbour, visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views, or enjoy Auckland’s lively dining scene.
Hotel: The Grand by SkyCity
Day 19 - Feb 22, 2027 - Auckland
Today, embark on an unforgettable full-day journey through the North Island’s most iconic landscapes and attractions. Your day begins with an early morning pickup (typically around 5:40 – 6:00 AM), departing Auckland in a small group for a full-day experience of approximately 12–13 hours.
Travel through the scenic Waikato countryside, known for its rolling green hills and farmland, before arriving at the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Enjoy a fully guided tour through the picturesque film set, where you will walk among charming Hobbit Holes, lush gardens, and filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Conclude your visit with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, adding to the immersive experience.
Continue to Rotorua, the cultural and geothermal heart of New Zealand, where you will experience the region’s unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, home to some of the country’s most colorful and dramatic geothermal features, including bubbling mud pools, steaming craters, and the vibrant Champagne Pool.
In the evening, return to Auckland (approximately 6:30 – 7:30 PM), after an enriching and diverse day exploring New Zealand’s highlights.
Day 20 - Feb 23, 2027 - Auckland
Today, escape the city and discover the beauty and flavors of Waiheke Island, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Begin your journey with a scenic ferry ride from downtown Auckland (approximately 40 minutes) across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island.
Upon arrival, join a guided wine tour (duration ~5 hours, typically starting around 11:00 AM), visiting a selection of boutique vineyards set among rolling hills and coastal landscapes.
Enjoy tastings of locally produced wines, including varietals such as Chardonnay, Syrah, and Bordeaux-style blends, while learning about the island’s winemaking heritage. The experience also includes a leisurely lunch at a beachfront or vineyard restaurant, where you can relax and take in the island’s laid-back atmosphere.
Throughout the day, travel between vineyards with your guide, enjoying scenic views of beaches, olive groves, and countryside landscapes. In the afternoon, return by ferry to Auckland, with the evening at leisure to enjoy your final night in New Zealand.
Day 21 - Feb 24, 2027 – Auckland
Check out and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
A fully customized itinerary tailored to your interests and schedule
24/7 in-destination support from our local office
All accommodations, flights, sightseeing tours as outlined in the itinerary
Luggage allowance of one suitcase and one carry-on on flights/trains.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you’d like to receive pricing from our Air Team
Travel insurance, which is mandatory on tour
Visas (unless noted)
Tips for services and experiences
Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
BOOKING
Your deposit is due immediately on booking (100 EUR per person). The balance is due 60 days prior to departure.
Cancellations of confirmed bookings 60 days or more prior to departure will receive a full refund minus a €100 per person administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g., airfare, cruise, or hotel deposits), 60 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.
Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary.
Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 60 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at https://www.discoveryescapes.com/terms-and-conditions
Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
Contact information
YOUR DESTINATION EXPERT:
Camila Lewis
Mail: camila@discoveryescapes.com
Call: +443334445387