Australasia is a special part of the world that casts a powerful pull on the imagination: the sail-like silhouette of Australia’s Sydney Opera House, the vibrant underwater wonder of the Great Barrier Reef; the snow-capped peak of New Zealand’s Mount Cook, and the raw, volcanic power bubbling to Rotorua’s surface. For over a decade, our classic tours to Australia and New Zealand have reflected a deep passion for the region. Our first three tours – our 24-day ‘Wonders of Australia’ and ‘Magnificent New Zealand’ and 31-day ‘Highlights of Australia & New Zealand’ itineraries, have stood the test of time, inspiring countless adventures. Everyone who visits has their favourite moments that linger long after the journey ends.
Uluru, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. Rising vertically from the desert landscape of the Northern Territory, this vast mass of iron-rich sandstone has transformed from grey to deep rust-red over thousands of years exposed to the elements. It holds a sacred place in Aboriginal tradition as a resting place for ancestral spirits and evokes a strong emotional response in many who stand at its feet. Seeing Uluru at sunset, as its features turn from burnt orange to burnished copper, and at dawn, as the rising sun intensifies its colour, is particularly memorable.
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
New Zealand’s natural beauty is just as legendary. On the country’s far north-eastern edge, the Bay of Islands is a subtropical paradise. Steeped in Māori culture, this idyllic region played a pivotal role in the country’s history – it was here the historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed, and the nearby town of Okiato served briefly as New Zealand’s first capital. The Bay’s pristine islands are teeming with wildlife, from wheeling seabirds to cresting whales, and it’s often said to boast one of the bluest skies on Earth.
Milford Sound, New Zealand
Hundreds of miles south, the glacial fjord of Milford Sound cuts dramatically through the thickly forested mountains. Winding between sheer cliffs and thundering waterfalls towards Te Anau, it remains one of New Zealand’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. Here, seals, penguins, and dolphins flit in and out of the calm, dark waters, in a scene that feels almost untouched by time. Dotting the continent’s raw, natural landscapes are cities that are rich with culture, creativity, and charm. Sail through Sydney Harbour in the wake of thousands of ships that have gone before, wander the bohemian streets of Melbourne, and peruse the galleries and parks of cosmopolitan Adelaide. Look out over Auckland’s volcanic hills and island-dotted coast and volcanic hills and fly down to Christchurch to take a heritage tramway ride through its pastel-hued streets.
The Ghan, Australia
Travelling across Australasia’s vast distances is an adventure in itself. For nearly 100 years, the Ghan train has carved an epic path through Australia’s heart, running between Adelaide and Darwin. Named after the Afghan cameleers who once led expeditions into central Australia, long before any tracks were laid, boarding The Ghan today offers an experience defined by comfort, service and spectacular scenery. It remains a highlight of our Australia tours – and rightly so, as one of the world’s great rail journeys. All of these experiences are woven together with our distinctive Distant Journeys knowledge and expertise. Our signature tours showcase the very best of Australia and New Zealand, and are carefully timed to make the most of each encounter, leaving Freedom Days in between to soak it all in. After more than a decade of adventures, Australasia still makes our hearts beat faster.
View our
Download
Request your FREE
