INTRODUCTION
Gain deep insight into the native and European cultures of Australia and New Zealand. Hear about Sydney’s and Hobart’s penal past from a descendant of Australia’s first settlers. Admire the Victorian treasures of Dunedin, the fragrant English gardens of Christchurch and Wellington and the art deco glories of Napier. Enjoy the earthy sounds of the didgeridoo and the thrilling dances of the Māori. Only Viking brings you this close to the “Land Down Under.”
VACATION OVERVIEW
Your vacation begins the moment you arrive in Cairns. We can pick you up at the airport and whisk you to your selected hotel, where your Local Host will offer you a warm greeting and information to help you get settled and personalize your trip. The next morning, after your included breakfast, you’ll cruise on a catamaran to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the most amazing natural wonders on Earth! We’ve arranged for you to either snorkel or take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or you can attend a presentation by a marine biologist. Regardless of what you choose, you’ll be amazed at the beauty all around you. A photo cannot capture it; you must experience it for yourself.
After a full day in Cairns to explore on your own (with the support of your Local Host, of course), you’ll fly to the Outback, where you’ll see the sunrise at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and enjoy drinks & canapés while watching the sunset at Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). While in the Outback, we’ve also arranged for you to visit the Uluru-Kata Cultural Centre with its amazing collection of Aboriginal arts.
Then it’s on to Sydney, where we will have a Local Host waiting to welcome you to this bustling city. The next day, after your included breakfast, we’ll pick you up at your hotel for guided sightseeing with a local expert. Hear the insider stories around the must-see sights, such as the Opera House and Bondi Beach. A full day in Sydney gives you time to explore on your own or to take one of the many optional excursions we offer. Perhaps climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge, shop for a special souvenir, or take an excursion to the Blue Mountains. Your Local Host will have plenty of suggestions.
After seeing the highlights of Australia, fly over the “ditch” to Queenstown, New Zealand, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” We’ll take you on what will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip: a cruise on Milford Sound which boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Continue to Rotorua where you’ll visit Agrodome to learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry and Te Puia to explore a geothermal wonderland. End your vacation in vibrant Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city.
VACATION HIGHLIGHTS
Sightseeing:
Sightseeing as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary
Transportation:
Transportation as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary and transfers to/from all intra-vacation flights (intra-vacation flights not included)
Guides:
Local Hosts in Cairns, Sydney & Queenstown
Special Departures:
During the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, certain activities may not be available. A different activity may be substituted or a refund offered if your included activity is not available.
MEALS
Breakfast daily; 2 lunches
