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17 Day Australia Tour & New Zealand
TOURCODE: AU4
Duration: 17 Days Countries Visited: 2 Activity Level: 1 Tour Style: Cultural
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17 Day Australia Tour & New Zealand

The Best of Oz & Aotearoa
17 Days
TOURCODE: AU4

Flashy, historic Sydney; Ayer's Rock and the Red Centre; Great Barrier Reef cruise; Auckland city tour; Rotorua thermal springs and geysers; Scenic Queenstown; Stunning Doubtful Sound cruise

Tour Overview
Tour Overview
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Countries Visited: 2 Activity Level: 1 Tour Style: Cultural

This is an excellent alternative to our much longer combination of Australia & New Zealand tour, covering the main highlights of both in an efficient, well-paced and affordable package.

 


 

Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices

 

Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.

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PRICE

The above prices are subject to an additional $370 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.

Due to the nature of internal flights which need to be issued far in advance, this tour requires a $1000 per person deposit.

Optional Single Supplement: $1880 USD (number of singles limited).
This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $950 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.



$1000 USD DEPOSIT REQUIRED per person
BASE PRICESelect Date first

 


 

Full Itinerary
Full Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrival in Sydney
Today we arrive in Sydney, New South Wales.

Sydney is regarded as one of the world's greatest coastal cities. The odd thing is that when the British explorer Captain James Cook sailed up the east coast of Australia in 1770 he missed the site altogether. He saw the Sydney Heads, of course, but did not guess that a vast harbour lay behind them. So when a British fleet arrived to establish a colony in Australia in 1788 it went first to nearby Botany Bay. Within days, however, Sydney Harbour was discovered and the settlement moved there.

Overnight in Sydney.

Included Meal(s): Dinner



Day 2 Sydney: City Tour
Today we tour Sydney. We include a cruise on Port Jackson, Sydney's harbour, much like Captain Cook once did many years ago. Sydney is regarded as having one of the finest harbours in the world. The odd thing is that when the British explorer Captain James Cook sailed up the east coast of Australia in 1770 he missed it altogether. He saw the Sydney Heads, of course, but did not guess that a vast harbour lay behind them. So when a British fleet arrived to establish a colony in Australia in 1788 it went first to nearby Botany Bay. Within days, however, Sydney Harbour was discovered and the settlement moved there.

We pass the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, various sandy white beaches, and the exclusive homes that line Sydney's harbour on our way to the Pacific gateway. The Harbour Bridge spans one of the most narrow inlets of the harbour and is one of the largest arch bridges in the world. The bridge is affectionately known as "the Coathanger." Our tour also takes us to Bondi Beach, Paddington, Oxford Street, and King's Cross.

Overnight in Sydney.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 3 Sydney: Blue Mountains
This morning we drive by coach westward to the Blue Mountains, named for the blue haze created by the eucalyptus oil in the air above the mountain gum forests. The Blue Mountains National Park includes almost 600,000 acres of sandstone plateau, forested river valleys and deep gorges. We'll visit the Wentworth Falls Reserve for a short walk and spectacular views of the valley, followed by a drive along Cliff Drive to the Echo Point Visitor Information Center where we will see colourful parrots, lorikeets and rosellas, which gather at the center's panaramic windows. There is a nice view here of The Three Sisters formation, in legend members of the Katoomba tribe who were unlucky in love.

Return to Sydney.

Overnight in Sydney.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 4 Sydney - Fly to Uluru (Ayer's Rock)
Today we fly to Uluru (Ayer's Rock), located in the centre of the continent.

Uluru is an incredibly impressive monolith 5 km (3 miles) in length and over 300 m (1,000 feet) high! Uluru is a remnant of ancient mountains which long ago weathered away, leaving the sandstone monolith standing alone in the desert. In 1989 scientists found evidence that Uluru, the Macdonnell Ranges, and a cluster of huge rock domes named Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) were part of a single plateau. Although British explorers trekked through the Red Centre as long ago as 1844, none of them visited Uluru until 1873, when it was named Ayers Rock after a colonial administrator of the day, Sir Henry Ayers.

We visit Uluru for a short walk at the base before travelling to the sunset viewing area.

Overnight near Ayers Rock.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 5 Uluru - Alice Springs
Today we travel over the Macdonnell Ranges to Alice Springs, located at almost the exact geographical centre of Australia. Many Aboriginals work as stockmen on the vast stations in this area, and reminders of their rich heritage are everywhere. Wild camels roam throughout the region, and the dry red earth and deep blue sky create a surreal atmosphere. Neville Shute wrote a famous novel, A Town Like Alice, in 1950. That book and the movie based on it put Alice Springs on the international map for the first time, but it was many more years before it began attracting tourists in telegraph station here after his wife, Alice, and the town which later grew up nearby took the same name.

This evening we enjoy a typical outback meal at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Alice Springs.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 6 Alice Springs Sightseeing
Our day tour of Alice Springs includes the panoramic ANZAC Hill, the Old Telegraph Station, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service HQ. "The Alice" began in 1872 as an overland telegraph station linking the north and south. Today it combines the vigour of the frontier-like environment with the convenience of modern facilities.

We also visit Alice Springs School of the Air, which has been bridging education gaps caused by remote locations and providing schooling to children at cattle stations, roadhouses, Aboriginal communities, and national parks with daily lessons via satellite broadband to children aged 4 to 13 years since 1951. The school broadcast area covers 1.3 million square kilometres including most of the Northern Territory, the northern area of South Australia, and eastern area of Western Australia.

A must see for every visitor is the Alice Springs Desert Park. In the space of just a few hours, you can discover many of the secrets of the Central Australian deserts. Hundreds of species of plants and animals found across Central Australian deserts can be seen. Our visit involves an easy walking trail through three desert habitats. Witness free-flying birds of prey in the nature theatre, see rare and endangered animals in the spectacular nocturnal house, hear the insights into the interlinking world of plants, animals and people from our local guides and enjoy a cinematic journey through four-and-a-half billion years of desert evolution during the 20 minute cinematic journey of "The Changing Heart".

Overnight in Alice Springs.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 7 Alice Springs - Fly to Cairns
Queensland is huge -- at about 1 745 000 sq km (667,000 square miles), the second largest state (Western Australia is the biggest) and more than twice the size of Texas. Taking the Cape York Peninsula and the Gulf of Carpentaria into account, it has an enormous coastline over 7500 km (4,590 miles).

Queensland started out as part of New South Wales, used as a penal colony starting in 1824. An influx of free settlers, many who entered illegally, changed its face from prison to agricultural centre. In 1842 it was officially opened to free settlement and, by 1859, the population was large enough to justify its status as a separate colony. The settlers made their way with sheep, cattle, wheat, an abundance of natural resources and cash crops --including bananas, which gave rise to the rather derisive name the rest of Australia sometimes uses for Queensland natives: "Banana benders".

As flight times can vary, our day is somewhat open-ended, with opportunities for sightseeing and free time in either location.

Overnight in Cairns.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 8 Cairns: Reef Cruise
Today we have a full-day cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of roughly 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands that stretch for 2600 kilometres (1,616 mi) and cover an area of approximately 344 400 sq km. The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is sometimes referred to as the single largest organism in the world. In reality, it is made up of many millions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. The Great Barrier Reef supports a wide diversity of life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981.

Generally, the vessels offering reefs trips are large and comfortable with plenty of deck space and interior seating. A buffet lunch is served (included) and a wide range of beverages are available for purchase. Snorkeling equipment is available and included.

Overnight in Cairns (dinner on your own this evening).

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch



Day 9 Kuranda Classic Experience
Today we enjoy the "Kuranda Classic Experience," whereby we experience wo of the most popular tourist attractions in the Far North Queensland. Glide above the canopy of World Heritage rainforest and learn more about this ancient ecosystem with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Your Skyrail experience should take approximately 1½ hours and includes spending time at the two rainforest mid-stations. Allow 20 minutes for each station, to enjoy Ranger guided boardwalk tours and visit the Rainforest Interpretation Centre, lookouts and historical displays.

We leisurely explore Kuranda, the famous 'village in the rainforest', before returning to Cairns aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. The famous Kuranda Scenic Railway was built over 120 years ago and winds its way through the tropical mountain ranges between Cairns and Kuranda.

Overnight in Cairns.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 10 Cairns, Australia - Fly to Auckland, New Zealand
Today we fly to Auckland, New Zealand.

Located in the northern part of New Zealand, the cosmopolitan city of Auckland is the largest metropolitan area in the country. The geographical location of Auckland is such that it lies between the Hauraki Gulf of the Pacific Ocean to the east, the low Hunua Ranges to the southeast, the Manukau Harbour to the southwest, and the Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and northwest. The region is also the site of Auckland Volcanic Field, comprising of around 50 volcanoes. This is perhaps the most vibrant and bustling city in New Zealand. Auckland is also the biggest Polynesian city in the world, a cultural influence reflected in many different aspects of city life.

Overnight in Auckland.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 11 Auckland: City Tour
This morning we begin our tour of Auckland.

Travelling via Auckland's 'Golden Mile' (Queen Street), our tour takes us through the university grounds past many of Auckland's historical buildings. We continue to the Central Business District, the Mission Bay area, Tamaki Drive, and the Harbour Bridge before our visit to the Auckland Museum. Three expansive levels tell the story of New Zealand's history, from emergence as a nation through the loss and suffering of war, to their uniquely ancient natural history and priceless Maori and Pacific treasures.

Overnight in Auckland.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 12 Auckland - Waitomo Caves - Rotorua
This morning as we depart from Auckland we will travel to the crest of Mt Eden and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city. This dormant volcano, complete with crater, allows us to clearly view Auckland's setting between two harbours.

We leave the 'City of Sails' and travel south through the rich farmland of the Waikato region before arriving at the world-famous Waitomo Caves. Here we will experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns and glowworm caves. After this unique experience we continue on to Rotorua, an area of abundant geothermal activity. Rotorua is in the middle of what is called the Taupo Volcanic Zone, which runs from northeast to southwest across the North Island. The area has long been a popular spa area and the locals make use of the hot steam that rises to the surface for heating their homes, cooking, and building their own private hot pools.

This afternoon we will visit the Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts and Crafts Center. Here we will discover boiling pools of mud and geysers that spout up to 30m (100 feet).

Overnight in Rotorua.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 13 Rotorua - Fly to Queenstown
Today we fly to Queenstown, located on New Zealand's scenic South Island.

Queenstown is situated on Lake Wakatipu and location is stunning; the lake is beautiful and the surrounding mountain scenery adds to the overall splendour. At some point in our time in Queenstown we will take a gondola ride to the top of a mountain for a panoramic view of the town. Depending on the timing of todays flight, you may have some free time in Rotorua and / or time for an orientation upon arrival in Queenstown.

Overnight in Queenstown.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 14 Queenstown: At Leisure
Today is a nicely-timed free day. Surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is New Zealand's premier four-season lake and alpine resort. Queenstown has a compact and sophisticated downtown area tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Dwarfed by the surrounding mountains, there are amazing views from everywhere.

You may choose just to relax, wander the streets, and soak up the atmosphere of the region. Or you may wish to join one of the optional excursions available (booked locally), such as a lake cruise, wine tour, jet boating, or a local garden tour. Your Tour Leader can help you plan your day.

Overnight in Queenstown.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 15 Queenstown - Doubtful Sound Cruise - Te Anau
We will depart Queenstown this morning and head toward beautiful Lake Manapouri. We cruise across the lake and then travel by road over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.

In Doubtful Sound, we will board the spacious, purpose-built catamaran 'Patea Explorer' for a cruise through this pristine fiord. During the cruise knowledgeable and friendly nature guides will share with you their passion for the region through their commentary. They will answer questions, point out landmarks and provide you with information about the varied wildlife you may encounter like dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

After our cruise we disembark and transfer to our hotel located in the charming lakeside town of Te Anau.

Overnight in Te Anau.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner



Day 16 Te Anau - Queenstown
Today we continue back to Queenstown, stopping en route for a cellar tour and tasting at Gibbston Valley Winery. Here we enjoy an informative explanation of the local wine making process, the various varietals grown, and a wine tasting held inside a cave!

Overnight in Queenstown.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 17 Departure
Departure from Queenstown.

BON VOYAGE!

Included Meal(s): Breakfast

 


 

Trip Info
Trip Info

Inclusions
All transport, breakfast and dinner or lunch daily (hotels and local restaurants). All accommodation, air, land/water transport, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.

Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers.

Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuity, most lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), departure taxes, domestic and international air taxes (if applicable). Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs, shopping.

Seasonality and Weather
This trip is offered twice a year: in early and late austral summer. That said, many regions covered do not have 4 distinct seasons like most places in North America. This itinerary covered a huge area and weather conditions experienced will be extremely varied.

AUSTRALIA: Generally warm or hot everywhere; tropical at Cairns, and warm to hot with mild nights in the southeast. It'll be just plain hot in the centre.

NEW ZEALAND: Again, quite varied north to south, depending on proximity to the sea. Generally milder than Australia, though we can still experience some heat. November is pleasant for wildflowers and green landscapes, while Feb-March will feature late summer conditions, perhaps with the start of some fall colour.

Transport and Travel Conditions
We shrink the greater distances with scheduled flights on local carriers (Qantas & Air New Zealand). Locally, ground transport is provided by private air-conditioned motor coach.

This is not a strenuous tour though it is busy, with plenty of moving around, full days of travel and/or sightseeing, and local city and town walking tours done at a leisurely pace. Though porters are available to assist with baggage at hotels, you must be independent with your luggage at airports.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Accommodation
Well-located, air-conditioned, mid-range (3-star) hotels with en suite toilet and bath throughout (probably shower only). Single rooms are limited in number and likely smaller than doubles.

Staff and Support
Tour Leader, coach captains, local step-on guides in several locales.

Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader

 


 

Map & Hotels
Map & Hotels

Regions visited: Down Under
Countries visited: Australia and New Zealand


*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.


The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.


Metro Hotel Marlow Sydney Central
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Sydney
Country: Australia
You’ll wake up in the heart of Australia’s most famous city, surrounded by world-famous shops, restaurants, and bars – and directly opposite the Capitol Theatre. Spend the day looking for bargains at ... biggest stores, then in the evening soak up the sights and sounds of Sydney’s vibrant nightlife.

Getting around is easy. Whether you want to get around Sydney or explore New South Wales, it’s just a five-minute walk to Central Station, and an array of train and bus services.
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Holiday Inn Darling Harbour
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Sydney
Country: Australia
Holiday Inn Darling Harbour is situated right between the bustling China Town and newly developed Darling Square precinct. The hotel is just 5 minutes’ walk to the ICC International Convention & Exhibition ... and 10 minutes’ walk from Central Train Station. Take a leisurely stroll through Darling Harbour with its many attractions such as Cockle Bay, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo and Madame Tussaud's Sydney. The hotel is also a heritage building constructed in 1890 and has since transformed into the largest Holiday Inn in Australia.
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Outback Pioneer Hotel
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Ayers Rock
Country: Australia
Australian hospitality has its own style of service that combines both professionalism and genuine warmth. You'll find this authentic brand of service at the Voyages Outback Pioneer Hotel. It offers comfortable, affordable ... rooms with a private bathroom and is perfect for the demands of travellers looking for quality service in relaxed surrounds.

The rooms feature air-conditioning and heating and have tea/coffee making facilities. As a guest at the Hotel you have access to all the facilities the resort has to offer; swimming pools, Resort Town Square shops, petrol station, tennis courts, visitor centre, tour desk and more. If you are catering for yourself, you can pick up supplies at the Supermarket at the Resort Town Square. Your stay includes a FREE Indigenous Activities Program, return Ayers Rock Airport transfers and free use of Ayers Rock Resort shuttle bus service.


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Desert Gardens Hotel
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Ayers Rock
Country: Australia
Imagine waking up to a sunrise view of Uluru, blazing red under a sunny Outback sky. Desert Gardens Hotel boasts the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort. Perched ... an oasis of native gardens, the hotel’s 218 elegant guestrooms provide a relaxing retreat from a day of adventure. Accommodation options are diverse, from Deluxe Rock View rooms to Garden View rooms amidst towering gumtrees and garden beds dotted with native shrubs and flowers.
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Coral Tree Inn
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Cairns
Country: Australia
Nestled in the heart of Cairns, close to all the attractions, restaurants and bars. Coral Tree Inn stands as a private oasis offering you a tropical sanctuary away from the bustling city ... />
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Pacific Hotel Cairns
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Cairns
Country: Australia
Located on the Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers stunning views from private balconies and easy access to the nearby Reef Fleet Terminal, shopping precinct and Esplanade Lagoon. The modern ... offer comfortable and spacious accommodation for all travellers. Take your stay in Cairns to the next level with our new, luxurious Tropical Luxe Room Collection. Presenting chic rooms with tropical tones to elevate your stay in paradise!
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Grand Millennium Auckland
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Auckland
Country: New Zealand
Welcome to Grand Millennium Auckland, superbly located in the city centre close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you will appreciate being situated in ... very heart of cosmopolitan Auckland with some of the city’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. Also nearby are landmark venues: The Civic, Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square, the city's largest outdoor civic space where you can relax and often attend local events.
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SkyCity Hotel
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Auckland
Country: New Zealand
SkyCity Hotel where exceptional experiences happen every day. A place where you can enjoy genuine Kiwi hospitality and modern, spacious accommodation.

Explore the sights and sounds of vibrant Auckland, including the
... Sky Tower. Pamper yourself at rejuvenating spa facilities. Experience magnificent dining with over 20 restaurants, cafes and bars close by, not to mention theatres and the exciting SkyCity Casino. Before you return, relax and refresh with our world-class facilities and services, where your comfort is our priority.
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Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Rotorua
Country: New Zealand
Conveniently located just 15-minutes from Rotorua Airport in the heart of Rotorua township, Novotel Rotorua Lakeside is the perfect base for adventure enthusiasts and families alike to see all that New Zealand's ... capital has to offer. Take a short stroll to the lakefront to ride the thrilling Kawarau Jet on Lake Rotorua. Hop on nearby public transport to visit the cultural and geothermal wonders at Te Puia. Or enjoy the adrenaline-pumping action of the luge at Rotorua Skyline.
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Copthorne Hotel and Resort
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Queenstown
Country: New Zealand
Experience tranquility all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. Popular ski ... such as Coronet Peak is a 20 minutes drive and Remarkables is a 45 minutes drive away.
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Crowne Plaza Christchurch
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Christchurch
Country: New Zealand
Located in Central Christchurch just minutes from CBD dining, shopping and entertainment, Crowne Plaza Christchurch offers modern accommodation and dining options for the business or leisure traveller. Overlooking historic Victoria Square and ... iconic Avon River, you’ll be in the perfect spot to connect with the Christchurch, or meet with colleagues, clients or friends in Market Place Restaurant & Bar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
01. What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?
Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.
02. Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?
Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.
03. How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?
The easiest way to make a reservation is to contact us by telephone. You can also book online through our website. A non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s). Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time. Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
04. What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?
Should you need to cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing, by letter, e-mail, or by fax immediately. Deposits are non-refundable, though if you cancel more than 90 days prior to tour departure date, the deposit is transferable to any other tour taken within 12 months of the original tour start date, minus a per person transfer fee (some tours have a 100% nonrefundable/ nontransferable deposit; you will be informed of this at the time of booking). Less than 90 days prior to departure, all monies paid are 100% non-refundable, nontransferable. Name changes are not permitted. Insurable risks may be covered under trip cancellation insurance policies, if purchased. We will not grant partial refunds for any unused trip arrangements—voluntarily missed meals, sightseeing, transport, etc—after the trip has commenced, or any refunds to trip members who do not complete any portion of the itinerary for whatever reason. All air tickets are non-refundable and valid only for the flight(s) indicated. We may cancel departures if forced to do so by circumstances such as war, civil or political unrest or what is commonly referred to as force majeure. In these instances we will refund all passengers in full if cancellation takes place more than 60 days prior to tour start date. If cancellation occurs within the 60 day period, we will offer to postpone your trip to another departure of the same tour code within 12 months of the original tour start date; or, if circumstances do not permit, an alternative will be offered at that time. We will not be responsible for costs associated with re-issuance or extension of visas, airline change fees, or for any compensation. We strongly recommend that all travellers purchase trip cancellation insurance, either through Adventures Abroad or elsewhere, as this may provide coverage under such circumstances. If we cancel your tour due to insufficient enrolment, we will endeavour to find an alternative tour for you. If this is not acceptable, all monies paid will be refunded in full and will constitute full settlement. We will not be responsible for any expenses incurred, such as visas, vaccinations, independently purchase airfare, or any compensation. Notice of cancellation due to insufficient enrolment in any program will be given approximately 60 days prior to departure.
05. I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?
All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location. This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement. The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible. On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available. Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.
06. Do you have a shared accommodation program?
Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

 

What People are Saying
Linda P.
Carol Stream, IL - US
The highlights were: Uluru and Alice Springs, great tour of Sydney, and I loved Queenstown. All guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Great restaurants chosen. Our tour leader was knowledgeable, friendly, considerate and patient. Hotels were very good. A trip of a lifetime! So very glad I took it!
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