Expedition Down Under

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Friday March 14: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Saturday March 15: Overnight Flight

Cross the International Dateline. (B)

Day 3, Sunday March 16: Rotorua

Arrive in New Zealand. After completing entry formalities you will be met by your local New Zealand based Tour Manager and board your private coach. Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit'. Afterwards travel through picturesque farmland and across the bush clad Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua in the heart of New Zealands famous thermal region. (B,D)

Day 4, Monday March 17: Rotorua

Travel to Rainbow Springs today to witness prehistoric reptiles and native birds, such as the kea and the flightless kiwi. Waimangu Valley is the next stop on your journey. After a picnic lunch and a Lake Rotomahana boat cruise, visit Tamaki Maori Village and indulge in a traditional feast. (B,D)

Day 5, Tuesday March 18: Queenstown

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Then board your coach for a tour of Queenstown, which includes a visit to Arrowtown and the Lakes District Museum. A gondola takes you to the Skyline Restaurant for dinner today. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday March 19: Queenstown

Today head to Fiordland National Park, through Hollyford Valley and into Milford Sound. Experience the fiord in the best way—from the water—with a scenic cruise featuring spectacular views of Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls. Then return to Queenstown. (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday March 20: Queenstown

A 4-wheel drive vehicle picks you up this morning for your Safari of the Rings tour. The safari brings you to the heart of New Zealand's high country and gives you a spectacular look at the diverse scenery of the area, where much of The Lord of the Rings was filmed. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday March 21: Christchurch

Your journey continues today along the inland route through New Zealand's beautiful hill country to Mount Cook, the highest mountain in the country. You'll continue along the coast of Lake Tekapo and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B,D)

Day 9, Saturday March 22: Sydney

This morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Sydney. Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be met by your local Sydney guide and assisted with a private coach transfer to your accommodation.. A Sydney Harbor Cruise aboard a luxurious ship will allow you to view the magnificent sights of the harbor. Enjoy a visit to Sydney Tower, where you will be treated to dinner and the 360-degree views of Sydney and the harbor from the revolving restaurant. (B,D)

Day 10, Sunday March 23: Sydney

After a free morning to explore more of Sydney's treasures at your own pace, head on an Australian Bush Walkabout Tour for an interactive experience of bush tucker, bush medicine, friendly native animals and ancient Aboriginal sites. After an Australian BBQ dinner and bonfire, take a walk to meet Australia’s fascinating nocturnal creatures

Day 11, Monday March 24: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Enhance your Aussie experience with a three-night extension to coastal Cairns—explore the nearby Great Barrier Reef and relax in breathtaking natural surroundings. (B)