Destination: Australia & New Zealand
Travel Dates: April 13 – 27, 2027
Duration: 15 Days / 12 Nights (plus 2 overnight flights)
Primary Departure Airport: Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) — Alternate airports available upon request
Departure Type: Guaranteed Departure
Group Size: Average 37 Travelers (Maximum of 44)
Tour Operator: Collette
Travel Style: Guided Tour Experience
Activity Level: Level 2 – Moderate
Price: $9,449 per person (double)
Single Supplement: $1,500
What’s Included at a Glance
Round-trip international airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)
12 nights hotel accommodations
22 Meals (12 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 6 dinners)
Professional Tour Manager at Destination throughout
Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
Motor-Coach transportation at destination
Overview
Experience the best of Australia and New Zealand on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through some of the world’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations.
Begin in tropical Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll explore one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders and experience Australia’s unique wildlife and Indigenous culture. Continue to Sydney, one of the world’s most vibrant cities, featuring a guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House and a memorable dinner cruise along Sydney Harbour.
Travel onward to New Zealand, beginning in Christchurch, where you’ll experience the city’s resilience and natural beauty while discovering native wildlife and Maori traditions. Then journey to Queenstown, nestled among snow-capped mountains and scenic lakes, and explore the dramatic landscapes of the South Island.
Highlights include a cruise on Milford Sound, one of the most spectacular fjords in the world, along with opportunities to experience New Zealand’s culture, wildlife, and stunning scenery.
This thoughtfully designed itinerary combines guided exploration with leisure time, allowing you to experience the diversity of the South Pacific while enjoying a seamless and well-organized travel experience.
This experience is operated by Collette and features a fully guided journey with a professional Tour Manager at destination, connecting each destination with carefully planned experiences, comfortable accommodations, and expert insight throughout.
This journey offers a comprehensive and immersive travel experience across Australia and New Zealand, combining iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant cities with a well-paced, guided itinerary.
Travelers can expect a moderately active pace with a balance of guided sightseeing, scenic travel, and leisure time. This tour covers a large geographic area and includes multiple flights and longer travel days, allowing you to experience two countries and some of the world’s most renowned destinations in one seamless journey.
Highlights include visits to the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour, and Milford Sound, along with cultural experiences and wildlife encounters unique to each region. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to showcase the diversity of the South Pacific, from tropical landscapes to alpine scenery.
Some days will include extended sightseeing and early departures, balanced with free time to relax or explore independently. Walking tours may cover several miles and can include uneven terrain, steps, and standing for extended periods. Travelers should be comfortable navigating airports, hotels, and multiple modes of transportation.
Due to the nature of this tour, occasional early mornings, longer days, and multiple flights between destinations can be expected. Some days include extended travel, including a full-day excursion to Milford Sound with an early departure and late return. There are also select days with longer motorcoach travel times, which are balanced with scenic stops and memorable experiences along the way.
Due to the distance traveled, international flights, and time zone changes, travelers should be prepared for jet lag, particularly at the beginning of the tour. The pace of the itinerary is designed to allow time to adjust while maximizing your experience.
Accommodations are centrally located and selected for comfort and convenience, placing you close to key attractions. Hotel layouts may vary, and rooms may not always be available immediately upon arrival in some destinations.
Some featured experiences may vary slightly due to seasonal schedules or maintenance. For example, the Lake Wakatipu cruise may be operated by an alternate vessel on select departures.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience featuring world-famous sights, diverse landscapes, and a well-organized travel experience across two extraordinary countries.
Travel with confidence knowing your experience is supported by a trusted local team dedicated to making your journey smooth, enjoyable, and memorable from start to finish.
Personalized service from a local, trusted team
Assistance before, during, and after your trip
Easy payment plans through WeTravel
Local support you can call anytime
Experience the best of Australia and New Zealand on a once-in-a-lifetime journey featuring iconic landmarks, breathtaking natural wonders, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
15-Day South Pacific Adventure
3-Night Stay in Cairns (Great Barrier Reef Region)
3-Night Stay in Sydney
2-Night Stay in Christchurch
4-Night Stay in Queenstown
Great Barrier Reef Excursion
Sydney Opera House Guided Tour
Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise
Rainforestation Nature Park & Indigenous Experience
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve (New Zealand’s “Big 5”)
Lake Wakatipu Cruise & Kiwi Farm Experience
Choice on Tour: Kiwi Birdlife Park or Gondola Ride
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
Australia & New Zealand in One Journey
Experience a collection of iconic destinations and unforgettable moments across Australia and New Zealand, blending natural wonders, cultural encounters, and world-renowned landmarks.
Great Barrier Reef Excursion
Explore one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders on a full-day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef, with opportunities to view marine life from above and below the water.
Rainforestation Nature Park & Indigenous Experience
Discover Australia’s rich cultural heritage as you learn traditional customs from an Indigenous Pamagirri guide and explore tropical rainforest environments.
Sydney Opera House Guided Tour
Go behind the scenes of one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks with an expert-led tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable evening cruising Sydney Harbour, taking in stunning views of the city skyline, Harbour Bridge, and Opera House.
Christchurch & Maori Cultural Experience
Explore New Zealand’s “Garden City” and experience Maori traditions with a unique paddle along the Avon River.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Get up close with New Zealand’s native wildlife, including the country’s “Big 5” species in a natural conservation setting.
Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise & Farm Experience
Cruise aboard a historic steamship before enjoying a traditional Kiwi barbecue and sheepdog demonstration.
Choice on Tour: Queenstown Experience
Personalize your journey with a choice between visiting the Kiwi Birdlife Park or taking a scenic gondola ride for panoramic views of Queenstown.
Milford Sound Cruise
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Experience the wonders of Australia and New Zealand on an unforgettable journey featuring world-famous landmarks, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Days 1 & 2 – April 13–14, 2027
Depart from Home
Begin your journey as you depart the U.S. and cross the International Dateline, traveling forward in time as you head toward the South Pacific.
Overnight international flight
Day 3 – Thursday, April 15, 2027
Cairns, Australia
Meals Included: Dinner
Overnight: Cairns
Arrive in tropical Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Spend the day at leisure as you settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Arrival in Cairns
Time to explore independently
Day 4 – Friday, April 16, 2027
Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairns
Immerse yourself in Australia’s culture and wildlife.
Visit Rainforestation Nature Park
Learn Indigenous traditions with a Pamagirri guide
Aussie barbecue lunch
Visit Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
Wildlife viewing including koalas and native species
Day 5 – Saturday, April 17, 2027
Cairns – Great Barrier Reef – Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairns
Discover one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
High-speed catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef
Visit Green Island
Glass-bottom boat ride, snorkeling, or beach time
Optional outer reef excursion available
Day 6 – Sunday, April 18, 2027
Cairns – Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Sydney
Enjoy a relaxed morning before flying to Australia’s most iconic city.
Leisure time in Cairns
Flight to Sydney
Day 7 – Monday, April 19, 2027
Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Sydney
Explore the highlights of Sydney on a guided city tour.
Sydney city tour
Visit Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay & The Rocks
Guided tour of the Sydney Opera House
National Opal Collection visit
Day 8 – Tuesday, April 20, 2027
Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Sydney
Enjoy a full day to explore Sydney at your own pace before a memorable evening on the harbor.
Day at leisure
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Scenic views of skyline, Opera House & Harbour Bridge
Day 9 – Wednesday, April 21, 2027
Sydney – Christchurch, New Zealand
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Christchurch
Travel to New Zealand and discover a city rebuilding with resilience and charm.
Flight to Christchurch
Introduction to the “Garden City”
Day 10 – Thursday, April 22, 2027
Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Christchurch
Experience New Zealand’s culture, wildlife, and natural beauty.
Christchurch city tour
Visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
See New Zealand’s “Big 5”
Maori cultural experience with waka (canoe) paddle
Day 11 – Friday, April 23, 2027
Christchurch – Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Queenstown
Journey through the scenic South Island to Queenstown.
Scenic coach travel
Arrival in Queenstown
Free time to explore
Day 12 – Saturday, April 24, 2027
Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Queenstown
Experience the beauty and culture of Queenstown.
Cruise Lake Wakatipu on a historic steamship
Kiwi barbecue lunch
Sheepdog demonstration
Choice on Tour:
Kiwi Birdlife Park
Gondola ride to Bob’s Peak
Day 13 – Sunday, April 25, 2027
Queenstown – Milford Sound – Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Queenstown
Witness one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Scenic drive through Hollyford Valley
Cruise Milford Sound
Optional scenic flight return (weather permitting)
Day 14 – Monday, April 26, 2027
Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Queenstown
Enjoy a relaxing day before your farewell evening.
Day at leisure
Optional countryside tour available
Farewell Dinner
Day 15 – Tuesday, April 27, 2027
Queenstown – Tour Ends
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart with unforgettable memories of your South Pacific adventure.
Tour concludes in Queenstown
Enjoy well-located accommodations throughout your journey, offering comfort and convenience in some of the South Pacific’s most iconic destinations.
Hotel Stay:
12 nights hotel accommodations (plus 2 overnight flights)
Planned Accommodations:
Cairns, Australia – Bailey Hotel by Crystalbrook (Days 3–5)
Sydney, Australia – Novotel Sydney Darling Square (Days 6–8)
Christchurch, New Zealand – Distinction Christchurch Hotel (Days 9–10)
Queenstown, New Zealand – Millennium Hotel Queenstown (Days 11–14)
~ In the event of unforeseen circumstances, a comparable hotel of equal quality may be substituted. ~
Tour Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $9,449 per person
Single Occupancy: $10,949 per person
Tour pricing includes round-trip international airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), air taxes, fees, and hotel transfers.
Tour pricing does not include optional Travel Protection.
Deposit & Final Payment
Deposit Required at Registration: $698 per person
Final Payment Due: January 13, 2027
A deposit is required at the time of registration to secure your reservation. All reservations are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Space cannot be held without a completed registration and deposit.
Deposits are refundable up until October 13, 2026.
Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
Flexible Booking Assurance
Deposits and Travel Protection payments are refundable up to the supplier’s specified date prior to departure.
If your plans change after that time, the value of your deposit may be applied as a Future Travel Credit toward another Collette tour, provided changes are made prior to final payment.
Future Travel Credits are non-transferable and typically valid for 12 months from the original departure date.
Flexible Payment Options
After submitting your deposit, you may log into your secure WeTravel reservation account at any time to make additional payments toward your balance. Travelers may also choose to set up automatic or scheduled payments, allowing the remaining balance to be divided into smaller payments leading up to the final payment due date.
American Tours accepts the following forms of payment:
Credit or debit card
Bank draft (ACH)
Personal check (processed electronically as a bank draft)
Credit card and ACH (bank draft) payments are processed through our secure WeTravel Reservation Platform. If paying by check, please make checks payable to American Tours.
Credit card or bank statements will reflect: WT SOUTH PACIFIC WONDERS*
What’s Included
Round-trip international airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)
12 nights hotel accommodations
22 Meals (12 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 6 dinners)
Professional Tour Manager at Destination throughout
Comprehensive sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
Motor-coach transportation at destination
Hotel transfers and baggage handling
Air Travel Information
Air travel for this tour is arranged by Collette and is included for guests selecting the air-inclusive option.
This tour includes required internal flights between destinations, which are included in your tour pricing.
Airport transfers operate on pre-scheduled times and may require coordination with group flight schedules.
Land-Only Option & Air Travel Preferences
If airline choice, seat selection, or specific flight preferences are important, you may request a land-only option and arrange your own flights.
Land-only pricing is not displayed online. Please contact American Tours for availability and pricing details. Land-only requests must be made at the time of reservation.
Flight Schedules:
International flight schedules are typically confirmed when final travel documents are released approximately 21 days prior to departure.
Seats & Baggage:
Airline seat assignments and baggage fees are not included in the tour price and are subject to each airline’s policies. Some airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until airport check-in.
Important Information
Due to the distance traveled and number of destinations visited, this tour includes multiple flights and longer travel days.
Itinerary and accommodations are subject to change.
Tour Responsibility
American Tours and Collette act as intermediaries for travel services provided by independent suppliers. All transportation, accommodations, and services are provided by third-party providers. Itineraries and services are subject to change.
Understanding the physical activity required for this tour will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
Activity Level: Level 2 – Moderate
(Level 1 = easiest, Level 4 = most demanding)
This tour features a balanced pace with a mix of guided sightseeing, scenic experiences, and leisure time throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Travelers should be comfortable walking two to three miles over the course of a day, including time spent on city tours, at attractions, and during outdoor experiences. Walking may take place on a variety of surfaces such as paved walkways, uneven terrain, and moderate inclines.
The itinerary includes some full days of sightseeing, along with opportunities for independent exploration and relaxation. Travelers should also be comfortable getting in and out of motor-coaches, boats, and other forms of transportation.
Due to the nature of this tour, occasional early mornings, longer days, and multiple flights between destinations can be expected.
This activity level is suitable for travelers who maintain an active lifestyle and are comfortable participating in a variety of experiences at a moderate pace. Travelers who require mobility assistance devices may be able to participate, though some activities may need to be skipped based on accessibility.
This journey is designed for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience exploring the iconic landscapes and cultures of Australia and New Zealand.
Travelers interested in visiting world-famous destinations such as the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, and Milford Sound
Guests who enjoy a well-organized, guided tour covering multiple destinations and countries
Those who appreciate a balanced itinerary with a mix of guided sightseeing and leisure time
Travelers comfortable with moderate activity levels, including walking, sightseeing, and navigating airports and multiple modes of transportation
Guests who are prepared for long-haul international travel, including overnight flights and time zone changes
Travelers who enjoy a variety of experiences including nature, wildlife, cultural encounters, and vibrant city exploration
Those looking for a comprehensive South Pacific journey that combines bucket-list highlights with a seamless travel experience
Proper travel documentation is required for this international journey. Please review the following requirements carefully to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Passport Requirements:
A valid passport is required for travel to Australia and New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your return date of travel.
Entry Requirements:
Electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) are required for entry into both Australia and New Zealand and must be completed prior to departure. Requirements are subject to change and will be communicated prior to travel.
Date of Birth (DOB):
Dates of birth are required at the time of reservation for airline ticketing purposes.
Traveler Responsibility:
Passengers are responsible for ensuring they have the proper identification and documentation required for international travel, including passports and any required entry approvals.
Important Reminder:
We recommend reviewing current international travel requirements prior to departure, as entry regulations may change. Itinerary and accommodations are subject to change.
Travel Protection is available for this tour and is designed to help protect your investment in the event of unexpected cancellations or interruptions.
Plan Cost: $769 per person
(Must be purchased at the time of registration with your initial deposit)
Coverage Highlights
Before Your Trip (Cancellation Protection):
Provides a refund of tour payments (excluding the Travel Protection fee) if cancellation occurs prior to departure
Coverage includes cancellation for any reason up to the day prior to departure
Airfare purchased through Collette is covered under the plan
During Your Trip:
Coverage may include:
Trip Interruption
Trip Delay
Baggage & Personal Effects
Baggage Delay
Emergency Medical Expenses
Emergency Evacuation / Repatriation
Accidental Death & Dismemberment
24/7 Travel Assistance Services
Important Information
Travel Protection must be purchased at the time of registration and cannot be added later
The Travel Protection fee itself is non-refundable
Coverage applies to the full tour package; partial cancellations may still result in penalties
Airfare not purchased through Collette may not be covered under this plan
Single supplement charges resulting from a traveling companion’s cancellation are not covered under the cancellation waiver
Travel Protection coverage varies by plan, and not all situations are eligible for reimbursement. We strongly encourage all travelers to review plan details carefully to ensure the coverage meets their individual needs
Travel Protection may be purchased through Collette or independently through a provider of your choice
American Tours does not determine coverage decisions. All claims and benefits are administered by the insurance provider
Full Policy Details
For complete coverage information, restrictions, and exclusions, please visit:
Collette's Travel Protection Policy
Cancellation Policy (Without Travel Protection)
More than 90 days prior to departure: Deposit retained
90–16 days prior to departure: 40% of total tour price
15–1 days prior to departure: 75% of total tour price
Day of departure or later: No refund (100% penalty)
Airfare is non-refundable once paid in full
Online Registration (Recommended)
You may register securely online 24 hours a day by clicking the green “See Availability” button.
During the online registration process, you will:
Complete the reservation form
Submit your required deposit
Provide passenger information required for air travel, including date of birth
Deposits may be paid by credit card, debit card, or bank draft (ACH). Once your reservation is completed, you will receive a booking confirmation email.
Mail-In Registration
To register by mail, click the “Download Brochure” button to access the Premier World Discovery brochure and registration form.
Complete the form and mail it with your deposit to the address listed. Your reservation will be confirmed once your deposit is received and processed by American Tours, and a confirmation email will be sent.
Payment Information
American Tours accepts the following forms of payment:
Credit or debit card
Bank draft (ACH)
Personal check (processed electronically as a bank draft)
Important:
Credit and debit card payments include a processing fee
Bank draft (ACH) payments do not include additional fees
For simplicity and to avoid processing fees, many guests choose bank draft (ACH).
Phone Registration
For security and legal compliance, registrations are not accepted over the phone.
Round-trip airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), including air taxes and fuel surcharges (alternate airports available upon request).
All ground transportation, internal flights, hotel transfers, and baggage handling are included.
Professional Collette Tour Manager at destination throughout your journey.
12 nights hotel accommodations throughout Australia and New Zealand (plus 2 overnight international flights).
Includes 22 meals (10 breakfasts, 4 lunch, & 6 dinners) during the tour.
All sightseeing, experiences, and admissions as outlined in the itinerary.
Includes iconic experiences such as the Great Barrier Reef excursion, Sydney Opera House tour, Sydney Harbour dinner cruise, and Milford Sound cruise.
Optional Hometown Pickup Service (roundtrip airport transportation) is available for $150 per person.
Optional Travel Protection is available and explained during the booking process.
Gratuities for your Tour Manager and local staff are not included. We recommend budgeting approximately $15–$20 per person, per day.
Checked baggage fees and seat assignment fees are not included and vary by airline.
Items of a personal nature such as beverages, souvenirs, laundry, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
Passports and any required travel documentation are the responsibility of the traveler.
Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary are not included.
