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16 Days: The Perfectly Paced First-Time Tour to Australia & New Zealand

Australia & New Zealand

18 Days Air travel time: 16 Days, 15 Nights Land Journey Begin in Sydney, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda Rainforest, Uluru/Ayer's Rock, Melbourne, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Maori Culture, Auckland

Best First Time Journey Down Under

Featuring Shangri-La & Sofitel Brands


See Full ItinerarySEE ITINERARY | DATES & PRICES | FAQs | MAKE A RESERVATION

Meet Journey's Australia & New Zealand Tour: Sydney's Treasures, Ayer's Rock' Red Center, Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne's Culture, and New Zealand's North and South Islands

EXPLORE THE LAND DOWN UNDER & HER DREAMTIME TREASURES — 
Sydney delights with both history, culture and cuisine as we begin our adventure through Australia. Enjoy our Journey Exclusive on the harbour, and delight at the sails of the Opera House. We're off to the red center and Ayer's Rock - known as Uluru - for a vivid presentation of color (and cuisine under the Southern Hemisphere). The Great Barrier Reef and amazing Rainforest of northern Queensland delight before we arrive beautiful Melbourne. We had South, to the South Island of New Zealand to Queenstown, and take in the amazing sights including Milford Sound. Then we head North to Auckland and the culture of the Maori.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS JOURNEY:

  • TOUR COMMENCES: SYDNEY, 3 Days, 3 Nights
    Sydney in all her glory with the spectacular Harbour, bridge and the Opera House. Welcome to Australia.
  • QUEENSLAND/CAIRNS, 3 Days, 3 Nights
    Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Rainforest
  • AYER'S ROCK/ULURU, 2 Days, 1 Night
    The Australian continent's Red Center comes to technicolor life as we enjoy Journey Exclusives in the heart of the Outback.
  • MELBOURNE, 2 Days, 2 Nights
    The beauty of Melbourne is balanced with its culture and interesting history.
  • QUEENSTOWN, 3 Days, 3 Nights
     Enjoy the South Island's jewel of Queenstown, Milford Sound and the beauty of New Zealand.
  • HAMILTON, 1 DAY, 1 NIGHT
    From volcanic tubes to amazing wines: we take in the Waitomo Caves, as we learn about the Maori culture
  • TOUR FINALE: AUCKLAND, 2 Days, 2 Nights.

THIS IS WHY WE SUGGEST JOURNEY FOR YOUR VACATION DOWN UNDER:

  • Sunset at Ayer's Rock, Great Barrier Reef, Milford Sound, Maori Culture
  • Koala, Kangaroo, Crocodiles and Natural Wonders
  • Hand-Picked Select Deluxe and Classic Accommodations
  • DINING: Our amazing included Dinners in Deluxe feature Unlimited Premium Beverages; 25 Meals: 15 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches/Aperitivo Lunches, 8 Journey Style Dinners, 1 Wine Tasting
  • SPECIAL ACCESS: Skip-the-Long-Line Admissions, Special Access.
  • LAUNDRY SERVICE: Journey's Complimentary Mid-Tour Laundry Service in Sydney
  • SMALL GROUP BENEFITS: Unique to Journey: No Up-Selling on tour (compare with mainstream tour operators), No Big Buses, No Big Groups
  • Journey Tour Captains relate to you, Friendly Expert Guides delight you!
  • On Tour Transportation with Included Portage: Micro-coach, Jet Travel (quoted separately)
  • Fees, taxes and gratuities excluding the Tour Captain

The Lands Down Under: Australia & New Zealand

ENJOY OUR UNIQUE APPROACH TO TRAVELING
We don't do buses. We don't do large groups.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DELUXE AND CLASSIC?
Journey's selection of Deluxe and Classic hotels are not just centrally located, but in the Historical Centers and sections of towns you want to be in. The Deluxe package includes a full, hot daily breakfast (table service or buffet), 8 of the 14 dinners and 4+ to 5 Star hotel properties featuring large, air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Journey's Classic package includes a daily continental breakfast, Melbourne Welcome Dinner (guests may upgrade to the total 8 dinners included for $650 per person), and 3 to 4 Star hotel properties featuring air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms.



 

Itinerary at a Glance

DAY 1-3: SYDNEY| DAY 4: CAIRNS, QUEENSLAND| DAY 5: GREAT BARRIER REEF| DAY 6: WILDLIFE | DAY 7: AYER'S ROCK - OUTBACK | DAY 8-9: MELBOURNE | DAY 10: QUEENSTOWN, NZ | DAY 11: MILFORD SOUND | DAY 12: SOUTH ISLAND | DAY 13: NORTH ISLAND | DAY 14: WAITOMO CAVES & MAORI CULTURE | DAY 15: AUCKLAND | DAY 16: DEPARTURE

 

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Chapter 1: Sydney

DAY 1: WELCOME TO SYDNEY
Sydney Harbor and Opera House

This is the Tour Commencement Day: You will depart from North America two days earlier. Example: May 1: Depart USA and arrive Sydney on May 3rd —  two days later. This is because you "lose a day" crossing the International Dateline.

Australian Travel Visa: Your Responsibility
When traveling to Australia from the USA or Canada, you will need a valid passport and a visa to enter. Most U.S. & Canada passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Inquire with your Journey Sales Associate with any questions regarding this visa. Visit Travel.State.Gov for more details.

Tour Commences Today — 
The Journey begins in Sydney. We can't wait to welcome you to begin your Journey. Whether you arrived early to recover from your Transpacific flight or if you've simply arrived today, the Australia and New Zealand Journey will absolutely delight you.

Orientation Walk IconThe Journey Discovery Walk

This afternoon you will meet your fellow travelers and your Journey Tour Captain for the included Discovery Walk through areas around our hotel in Sydney. Then enjoy some time at leisure before meeting tonight for a wonderful dining experience.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Sydney Dinner

Journey dinners are hosted by your Journey Tour Captain and feature all inclusive premium beverages and ordering from the menu.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Sydney, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Shangri-La Sydney or Similar
Classic: Classic Hotel

DAY 2: SYDNEY SIGHTS

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Tour of Sydney's Historic Rocks District

  1. It's a great day to explore Sydney as we learn of her history with the historic Rocks District and the amazing Harbour with all of its attractions. Journey's local Expert Guide is the cream of the crop and dazzles us on today's adventure.

We return to the hotel late afternoon for the balance of the day at leisure.

Tonight, join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or explore at your leisure.

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DAY 3: DAY AT LEISURE IN SYDNEY

Enjoy a full free day at your leisure.

Many options today from sailing, to climbing the bridge to enjoying an opera at the Opera House. Inquire for details.



Chapter 2: Queensland

DAY 4: WELCOME TO CAIRNS

Today we make our way to the airport for our Jet to Cairns. Upon arrival we transfer to Cairns, Queensland, our home for the next 3 days and nights.

Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at your leisure until our dinner tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to the Sunshine State Dinner

Enjoy an included dinner hosted by your Journey Tour Captain.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Queensland, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Shangri-La The Marina or Similar
Classic: Classic Hotel

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The Great Barrier Reef

DAY 5: CRUISE THE TECHNICOLOR REEF
Great Barrier Reef

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Great Barrier Reef

Today you have an included option to experience a cruise on a catamaran to one of the outer reefs where you can take part in swimming, snorkeling or just enjoying the watercraft. It's a full day adventure and includes lunch.

The ocean is beautiful but not your thing today? Then consider an optional experience such as a helicopter ride along the coast and over the reef? Or how about a spa treatment at the resort? You cannot do all of these but you can do one of these today as we've included these options for you. So choose from the Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Helicopter Adventure, or Spa Treatment. There are other things to do in Queensland as well - just inquire.

Are you a SCUBA certified diver? We have optional upgrades for SCUBA dives offered from Port Douglas.


DAY 6: AUSTRALIA'S CROCODILES, KOALA AND KANGAROO

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

Kangaroo BeachToday you have an included option to visit Hartley's Crocodile Adventures: See an array of native and exotic wildlife, enjoy entertaining and educational wildlife presentations and take a boat cruise on Hartley's Lagoon. We also enjoy seeing Australia's own Koala and Kangaroo.

The crocodiles are amazing but not your thing today? Then enjoy time in the town of Cairns or opt for another experience. Inquire with us!

Then we return to the hotel for the balance of the day at leisure.


Chapter 3: The Outback

 

DAY 7: WELCOME TO THE RED CENTER - AYERS ROCK
Uluru - Ayer's Rock

This morning we make our way to Ayer's Rock by Jet. Upon arrival, we begin our exploration of the red center with an up close experience with the amazing Monoliths. A full afternoon experience with a finale with the perfect sunset.  

Prosecco IconProper Greeting to Uluru

Enjoy the Tour Captain as they toast your arrival to the Australian Outback.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to the Outback Dinner

We have a special experience for tonight's dinner under the Southern Hemisphere. That's all we're saying!

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Ayer's Rock, 1 Night with breakfast

Deluxe: Sails in the Desert or Similar
Classic: Emu Walk Apartments, The Lost Camel, Outback Hotel or Similar

Chapter 4: Melbourne

DAY 8: EXPLORING THE THE RED CENTER

Melbourne, Australia

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Morning in the Outback

Enjoy our special tour of the area this morning before we catch our Jet bound for Melbourne, gateway to the Yarra Valley.

Late morning we make our way to the airport for our Jet to Melbourne. Upon arrival we transfer to the heart of Melboune, our home for the next 2 days and nights.

Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at your leisure until our dinner tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Melbourne Dinner

Enjoy an included dinner hosted by your Journey Tour Captain.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Melbourne, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: The Langham, Park Hyatt Melbourne, QT Melbourne, or Similar
Classic: Classic Hotel

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DAY 9: EXPLORING MELBOURNE & YARRA VALLEY

Journey Dinners IconBreakfast included daily

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Melbourne & Yarra Adventure

Today, we will enjoy our Local Guide on our tour of Melbourne and then make our way into the Yarra Valley for a special taste of the delicious wines from this beautiful country.

We return to Melbourne late afternoon for a free evening. Your Journey Tour Captain invites you to an optional dinner or you may explore at your leisure.


Chapter 5: Queenstown

DAY 10: WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

Queenstown, NZ

We make our way to the Airport in Sydney for our flight to New Zealand. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel, to freshen up and then meet for our Discovery Walk.

Orientation Walk IconDiscovery Walk: Queenstown

You will meet the Journey Tour Captain for a walk-through of Queenstown.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Queenstown Dinner: The cuisine of New Zealand kicks off the dining experience

Tonight you will join your Journey Tour Captain for a special welcome to Queenstown dinner complete with premium beverages and wine from the region.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Queenstown, 3 Nights with breakfast

DeluxeSofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa or Similar
Classic: Classic Hotel

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DAY 11: THE MILFORD SOUND EXPERIENCE

Milford Sound

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Milford Sound Cruise & Fiordland National Park

This morning we make our way to Milford Sound to enjoy a cruise through the sound. Enjoy our included round-trip scenic flights over snow-capped mountain ranges, sparkling lakes and tumbling waterfalls as we journey into the Fiordland National Park.

We return to Queenstown to enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Queenstown at your leisure.


DAY 12: DAY AT LEISURE ON THE SOUTH ISLAND

Enjoy a comlete day at leisure.

Perhaps it's a day for a spa experience, or the exciting Shotover River Jet Adventure or a Nature Tour in a 4WD vehicle —  the options are endless — inquire for details.

Tonight, enjoy dinner in Queenstown or join the Tour Captain for an optional outing.

Chapter 6: North Island

Day 13: WELCOME TO THE NORTH ISLAND

This morning we make our way to the airport for our Jet up to Auckland Airport and then make our way to the heartland of the north, the Hamilton area. Upon arrival, we freshen up and then enjoy a welcome reception and dinner.

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Exploring the North Island

The Hamilton region of the North Island features amazing landscapes, lakes and perspectives unique to the north. We make our way to our hotel for the night.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome Dinner

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts the welcome dinner tonight.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 1 Night

Deluxe: Lake Karapiro Lodge or Similar

DAY 14: WAITOMO CAVES & MAORI CULTURE

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Exploring the Waitomo Caves

We have a great day's adventure planned for you today as explore the amazing Waitomo Caves and learn of the Maori Culture through the beautiful lands of the north island.

Return to Auckland tonight for a night at your leisure. Your Tour Captain will invite you to join them to an optional dinner or you can explore at your leisure.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 2 Nights

Deluxe: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour or Similar
Classic: Classic Hotel


DAY 15: DAY AT LEISURE IN AUCKLAND

Enjoy a complete day at leisure

Then tonight, meet for our special farewell experience.

Prosecco IconOur Special Journey Finalé

After returning to our hotel, enjoy some leisure time and then meet on the terrace for our special Aperitif to celebrate our time together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends! Until our next Journey —  only the best travels!


DAY 16: DEPARTURE DAY

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure.

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