Fortuna Travel
National Parks of Australia and New Zealand
Everything you've dreamed of can come true at this very moment.
Combined tour to Australia and New Zealand. We are pleased to offer you a journey to the oldest continent on our planet, the Southern Land - Australia, as well as the most recent major landmass inhabited by humans - New Zealand, which is recognized as part of the youngest continent on our planet - Zealandia. There are plenty of reasons to visit these two amazing countries, from the famous cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland, to the unique animal and plant life, and the diversity of landscapes and climatic zones. This tour focuses heavily on nature, including visits to the most famous national parks and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Together with experienced local guides, you will discover the real Australia and New Zealand!

Tour itinerary: Sydney - Blue Mountains - Tasmania - Port Arthur - Hobart - Field National Park - Cairns - Palm Cove - Great Barrier Reef - Kuranda - Melbourne - Great Ocean Road - Queenstown - Milford Sound fjord - Southern Alps glaciers - Lake Nelson - Picton port - North Island - Wellington - Tongariro National Park - Waiotapu Reserve - Lake Rotorua - Geyser Valley - Waitomo Caves - Auckland

What awaits you
  • Platypuses, echidnas, koalas, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils
  • The Great Barrier Reef - the largest living organism on Earth, visible even from space!
  • Rituals and dances of Aboriginals, learning boomerang throwing and playing the didgeridoo
  • Beach relaxation on the Coral Sea coast
  • Cosmopolitan Sydney and elegant Melbourne
  • Volcanoes, geysers, fjords, and glaciers of New Zealand
  • Stunning landscapes that served as scenes for "The Lord of the Rings" filming
  • Warrior songs and fierce Maori haka dances
  • Flights over the Southern Alps
  • Cruise between the two main islands of New Zealand
DAILY PROGRAM
Day 1. Arrival in Sydney.
Arrival in Sydney. Transfer to the hotel with an English-speaking driver. Check-in (guaranteed after 3:00 PM, early check-in possible for an additional fee). Rest and acclimatization after a long flight, leisure time for independent walks and shopping if desired.

Day 2. Getting to know Sydney.
Sightseeing tour of Sydney with a guide-driver and acquaintance with the main attractions of Sydney: the legendary Sydney Opera House, the Harbor Bridge, the oldest district of The Rocks, the main wharf, botanical gardens, Hyde Park, St. Mary's Cathedral, the first prison, the main library of Sydney, the oldest museum in Australia, Parliament, and the Mint. After the tour, free time for walks and independent exploration of the city. You can climb Sydney Tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. We recommend taking a cruise on Sydney Harbour with magnificent views of the city's attractions from the water and lunch. After that, those who wish can independently visit the legendary Bondi Beach, where there will be time to sunbathe, swim, and have dinner at one of the local restaurants. Free evening in Sydney.

Day 3. Blue Mountains National Park.
Excursion to the Blue Mountains National Park, also known as the Australian Grand Canyon. This is a unique corner of pristine nature just 1.5 hours' drive from the city, carefully preserved by people from the onslaught of civilization. The Blue Mountains National Park is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The air here is amazingly clean and transparent, and everything you see is tinted in a delicate blue color. This effect is caused by the refraction of sunlight in the micro-particles of eucalyptus oil evaporating from millions of eucalyptus trees covering the slopes of mountains, valleys, and plateaus. Several viewpoints offer breathtaking landscapes described in Aboriginal legends. Descend from the mountains into the valley along the trail and after a walk through the unique relic rainforests, ascend to the top via the steepest railway in the world, listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Stop for lunch in a charming Victorian town. Then, a walking tour to a picturesque waterfall. Visit to the wildlife park, where you will have a unique opportunity to get acquainted up close with the most legendary representatives of the fauna of the ancient continent, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, Tasmanian devils, and others. Return to Sydney closer to the evening, rest, and free time.

Day 4. Flight to Tasmania, Tasman National Park, Port Arthur, Tasmanian Devil, and Fresh Oysters.
Early morning transfer to the airport with an English-speaking driver. Flight to the city of Hobart on the unique island of Tasmania. Meeting with a guide-driver at the airport. Departure to the Southern Ocean coast. Journey along the Tasman Peninsula coastline with picturesque views of gorges and beaches. In Tasman National Park, walk on the unique geological platform Tessellated Pavement and through the nature reserve with high cliffs, rocky coves, and capes, natural arches in the rocks. The names truly intrigue: "Devil's Kitchen," "Tasman Arch," "Pirate's Bay." Visit to the unique Port Arthur museum. This historical English fortress became one of the most legendary prisons in history, from which escape was impossible. An exciting guided walking tour of the prison ruins and surviving buildings in the fortress with intriguing stories of the "Australian Gulag" and the tragicomic escape attempts of prisoners. On the way back, a stop at the famous Eaglehawk Neck cliffs, connecting Port Arthur with the island part of Tasmania and continuously patrolled by guard dogs during the prison's operation. Visit to the wildlife park with the main attraction - the Tasmanian devil. The menacing growl of these seemingly ferocious marsupial predators is impressive. Here you can also see other famous and unique representatives of Australian fauna. On the way to Hobart, stop for a tasting of fresh local oysters, complemented by a glass of aromatic Tasmanian wine. Upon arrival in Hobart, check-in at the hotel. Free evening and relaxation. Overnight stay in Hobart.

Day 5. Hobart, Mount Wellington, Mount Field National Park, Salmon Ponds. Introduction to the capital of Tasmania with a guide-driver.
Visit to the famous Salamanca, the historical Battery Point area, Australia's oldest brewery, numerous temples, ancient churches, monuments, and colonial mansions built by the first settlers. A full introduction to Hobart is impossible without a trip to the top of Mount Wellington (1270m), where the breathtaking panoramic view of the Tasmanian capital, the harbor, and the Southern Ocean extends up to 120 km. Here you can also see rock formations known as the Organ Pipes. Departure to Mount Field National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient Gondwana forests and exemplary purity of air. On the way, visit the complex of salmon ponds in the oldest trout and salmon hatchery in Australia. Opportunity to taste pancakes with salmon and observe (if lucky) Australia's unique platypus. Upon arrival in the national park, a hike to the three-tiered Russell Falls through the rainforest among relic tree ferns from the dinosaur era and giant eucalyptus trees. Stop at a local winery for a tasting of unique, exquisite Tasmanian wines, as well as at a berry farm, where you can taste and buy fresh Tasmanian berries. Return to the hotel in Hobart, free time for a walk and dinner in the Salamanca area, and relaxation.

Day 6. Flight to Cairns and Beach Relaxation.
In the morning, transfer to the airport with an English-speaking driver and a flight to the northern part of the continent in tropical Australia. Cairns is the best place for diving and trips to the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system on the planet. Here are numerous islands and reefs scattered in the ocean, where you can enjoy clean water, sun, and beaches, underwater swimming, diving in seclusion from the noise and bustle of modern life. Upon arrival, transfer with an English-speaking driver to tropical Palm Cove. After checking in at the hotel (guaranteed after 3:00 PM), free time and relaxation on the beach.

Day 7. Great Barrier Reef.
In the morning, transfer in an English-speaking group to the pier and cruise on a modern high-speed catamaran to the most beautiful remote reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, which is rightfully considered one of the wonders of the world. It is the most extensive reef system and the largest living organism on Earth, stretching along the northeast coast of Australia for two thousand kilometers. The Great Barrier Reef is unparalleled in terms of the number and diversity of its inhabitants and their picturesque appearance. The excursion is designed for a full day, including morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and rental of snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins). The cruise arrives at a stationary platform from which it is comfortable to swim around the reefs. Optionally, diving can be arranged on-site. In the evening, return to the hotel, free time, and relaxation.

Day 8. Kuranda Mountain Range and Atherton Tablelands.
In the morning, meet with a guide-driver and depart on one of the most interesting excursions to the unique world of Australian tropical jungles. In one day, you can see the diversity of Australian landscapes from dry savannas to wet tropical forests, observe wildlife, enjoy breathtaking panoramas, learn about Aboriginal culture, taste products from local farmers, and experience rural Australia. The Atherton Tablelands are called the "fruit basket of Australia," with farms growing various agricultural crops. We will visit some of these farms for a tasting of local coffee, chocolate, fruit wines. Then, interaction with mountain wallabies in a picturesque granite gorge and observation of the behaviors of grey kangaroos, which are the second largest in Australia. Visit to the mountain village of Kuranda, where the best souvenir market is located, and where there will be a unique opportunity to take a photo with a koala and a wombat in your arms (only one state in Australia allows this). Local Aboriginals will demonstrate their ritual dances, teach throwing boomerangs and spears, and share the secrets of playing the didgeridoo. Meeting with the unique culture of Aboriginals and learning interesting facts about this mysterious race: the art of throwing boomerang and spears, the significance of painting for survival, the deep meaning of ritual dances, and the secrets of playing the didgeridoo. After that, there will be a unique opportunity to take a photo with a koala and a wombat in your arms (only one state in Australia allows this). Then, a light eco-educational walk through the tropical forest. Introduction to Australian jungles and interesting information about what this forest is famous for and why it is listed as a World Heritage Site. In Kuranda, you can ascend by car along the serpentine road (included in the tour price) or via the longest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere (not included, $AU 51). The gondola offers breathtaking views of the Coral Coast and the tropical forest, which stretches below like a continuous green carpet. The tour includes lunch.

Day 9. Flight to Melbourne and City Tour.
Early morning transfer to the airport with an English-speaking driver. Flight to the city of Melbourne. Upon arrival, meet with a guide-driver and a four-hour introduction to the cultural capital of Australia. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, with its unique architecture of ancient and modern buildings, cultural and sports facilities. It is a city of parks and gardens, occupying almost a quarter of the urban area. Introduction to the main attractions of the city and a climb to a skyscraper with a fully transparent glass cube, where you can significantly increase your adrenaline level. Check-in at the hotel. Free time for independent walks in Melbourne. Melbourne is known for its historical shopping arcades, numerous cafes, restaurants, parks, galleries, museums, nightclubs, bars, casinos, etc. Time for shopping, getting to know the local cuisine, and entertainment. Overnight stay in Melbourne.

Day 10. Great Ocean Road.
A full-day journey along the Great Ocean Road with a guide-driver. This is one of the most scenic drives in Australia, passing through the Great Otway National Park. Along the way, you'll encounter endless beaches, cliffs of whimsical shapes, eucalyptus forests with koalas and cockatoos, the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations in the Southern Ocean, and other breathtaking landscapes that have made this road famous far beyond Australia. You can take a short helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles rocks, providing the best view of this natural wonder. Return to Melbourne in the evening.

Day 11. Flight to Queenstown (New Zealand).
Transfer to Melbourne Airport with an English-speaking driver. Flight to New Zealand to the city of Queenstown. "Kia ora, welcome to Queenstown!" Meet with a guide-driver at the airport in the arrival hall. Without wasting time, take a tour of the gold rush town, undoubtedly worthy of a stroll through the cozy streets of the gold rush era. Here you can have a great photo shoot and buy worthy souvenirs. Next, depart to the Shotover River canyon, where those interested can participate in an exhilarating adventure – one of the most extraordinary jet boat rides through the mountainous canyon of the river with numerous maneuvers and 360-degree spins. This adventure is rightfully called the best jet boat ride in the world with a jet propulsion engine. After the exhilarating experience, arrive in Queenstown. Check-in at the hotel and free time to explore the alpine town, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by mountain ranges.

Day 12. Fiordland National Park with a Cruise and Flight over the Southern Alps.
Departure on a full-day cruise through Milford Sound, located in one of the largest national parks in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Fiordland. The grandeur of the fjords is difficult to describe in words. Towering cliffs with glacier-capped peaks, picturesque waterfalls, the distinctive Mitre Peak have left no one indifferent. The road through the mountain gorges is no less scenic and diverse. Sculpted by glaciers, rainforests, mirror lakes, the solid walls of Homer Tunnel, alpine parrots kea, and almost extinct takahē, secluded lagoons, and much more. Back to Queenstown, you can return by plane, taking a flight over the fjords, mountain ranges, and glaciers of the Southern Alps, or by helicopter with a landing on a glacier for breathtaking panoramic views. Free time to stroll around the alpine town and relax. Return to Queenstown.

Day 13. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Rising Mountains and Westland National Parks.
In the morning, departure to the glaciers of the Southern Alps. Crossing the royal ridge and descent to the picturesque Lake Wanaka. After a walk along the waterfront, we visit the unique Mystery Center. The further route from the Makarora Valley leads to a pass and descends along the river to the coast of the Tasman Sea. The road winds its way through narrow strips of rainforests between the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps and the edge of the Tasman Sea to the glaciers. It is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Along the way, there are stops, walks, and possibly swimming. The magic of relic rainforests and waterfalls, turquoise and mirror lakes, snow-capped peaks, gorges, and vast valleys simply cannot leave anyone indifferent. In the evening, arrival in the glacier region, descending into the rainforests. Time can be spent in hot pools surrounded by rainforests. Overnight stay in Westland National Park.

Day 14. Pancake Rocks, Paparoa National Park, Seal Colony.
Getting to know the glaciers. A glacier is essentially an icy river that slowly moves downhill under its own weight. In addition to their immense ecological importance for the mountains and valleys below, glaciers are also very spectacular and incredibly beautiful. The best way to enjoy the unique landscapes of multi-kilometer glaciers, mountain peaks, rainforests, and the Tasman Sea coast is by scenic helicopter flights with brief landings at the glacier heads (additional fee required). Alternatively, we depart for a hiking route to the terminal part of Franz Josef Glacier. Departure to the north along the road through rainforests between the mountain ridges and the Tasman Sea coast. Much of the territory of the West Coast is included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. Visit the crafts center of the West Coast, where you can watch masters create items from jade (pounamu), highly valued by the Maori. Here you can also buy souvenirs made of gold, glass, paua shells, as well as stones with drawings of kiwi birds. The further path runs along the coast. Picturesque views of the cliffs, which often collapse, forming whimsical single statues in the sea. In Paparoa National Park, we take a walk along the Pancake Rocks - a stunning natural architectural ensemble of layered rocks stacked like a pile of pancakes. But that's not all. During high tide, the real magic of nature begins... water columns erupt with huge fountains, turning everything around into a theatrical performance of two elements. Next, visit the seal colony on the coast of the Tasman Sea. Overnight stay in a small town.

Day 15. Nelson Lakes National Park, Marlborough Vineyards, Cruise to the North Island.
Journey to the picturesque lake in Nelson Lakes National Park. Swimming and walks through the beech forests of the Southern Hemisphere. Departure to the Marlborough region passing through the vineyards, famous for their wines. Stop at one or two wineries for tasting local wines. Arrival at the port of Picton - the maritime gateway to the South Island. A scenic cruise to the North Island (3.5 hours) first along the narrow Queen Charlotte Sound and then through Cook Strait to Wellington. Night in the capital of New Zealand - Wellington.

Day 16. Wellington and Hike in Tongariro National Park's Volcanic Valley.
In the morning, acquaint yourself with the capital and the "Windy City" - Wellington. Ascend Mount Victoria for the best views of the city, Wellington Harbor, and Port Nicholson. Then, stroll along the waterfront, pass by the "Beehive" Parliament building, a huge administrative structure, the city's central streets, and a lovely church made of local wood species. Next, depart for Tongariro National Park's Volcanic Valley, located in the heart of the North Island. It's one of the oldest national parks in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the main setting for the final scenes of The Lord of the Rings. The three main volcanoes periodically erupt with molten lava and tons of ash. Upon arrival, embark on a hiking trail through the Volcanic Valley to a picturesque waterfall on the edge of the field of hardened lava. Overnight stay in the national park at the foot of the volcano.

Day 17. Ancient Lake Taupo Caldera, Huka Falls, Waiotapu Reserve, Geyser Valley, and Maori Culture.
In the morning, journey to Lake Taupo, covering an area of 615 sq. km, which flooded part of a massive ancient volcano caldera, and take a walk to the powerful waterfall. You can also take a thrilling jet boat ride to the waterfall. Continue the journey to the "Sacred Waters" reserve. Take a walk through the country's most colorful geothermal valley to see unique creations – the artist's palette, the "Champagne Lake," and the Devil's Bath. The journey then leads to Rotorua (roto - lake, rua - second), which gave its name to the SPA city, geothermal phenomena, and Maori culture. This region is famous for its geysers and the "scent" of hydrogen sulfide. The history of this place dates back eight centuries, when the first Maori appreciated nature's gift of hot water, steam, and healing mud. Upon arrival, explore bubbling mud pools and geysers erupting with boiling water. Then, there will be a unique opportunity to observe the country's emblematic bird - the kiwi. Additionally, visit Maori craft workshops and an exemplary cultural center - marae. Towards evening, immerse yourself in Maori culture at an ethnic village with warrior canoe paddling, a show featuring the famous Haka warrior dance, and a dinner of traditional Maori Hangi dishes cooked in an earth oven. Alternatively, you can spend time in famous hot mineral pools, perfect for rejuvenation and deep relaxation.

Day 18. Unique Caves and Auckland.
In the morning, head to the Waitomo region. Explore caves that are not only home to stalactites and stalagmites but also to amazing glowing creatures. These caves are featured in the BBC series Planet Earth and are among the most unique in the world. Even Bernard Shaw, not one for hyperbole, was so impressed he called them the "eighth wonder of the world." Descend into the cave and take a boat ride on an underground river to a chamber where the walls and ceiling resemble the Milky Way on a clear night. Continue the journey to Auckland. Get to know Auckland - the city of sails and volcanoes. Climb to the top of a volcano for a bird's-eye view of the city. Parks, gardens, the waterfront, a bridge across the bay, the first mission, beaches, Queen Street, the largest marina in the Southern Hemisphere, the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere, the America's Cup area, and more. Auckland consistently ranks in the top five best cities in the world for quality of life. Evening free time.

Day 19. Departure from New Zealand, Program Conclusion.
Transfer to the airport, conclusion of the program.
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