South Pacific Wonders

logo

Overview

South Pacific Wonders
Sydney NSW, Australia
Apr 13 - 27, 2027
American Tours image
American Tours
$9,449
Deposit: $698

About this trip

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.

What to Expect on This Tour

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.

Why Book With American Tours

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

Highlights

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

Featured Experiences

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.

Itinerary

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

Overnight Accommodations

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. ~

Pricing & Tour Details

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.

Tour Activity Level 2

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.

Who This Trip Is For

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

Travel Identification

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.

Collette's Optional Travel Protection

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

How To Book

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.

What's included

Airfare

Round-trip airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), including air taxes and fuel surcharges (alternate airports available upon request).

Transportation/Transfers

All ground transportation, internal flights, hotel transfers, and baggage handling are included.

Tour Manager

Professional Collette Tour Manager at destination throughout your journey.

Lodging

12 nights hotel accommodations throughout Australia and New Zealand (plus 2 overnight international flights).

Meals

Includes 22 meals (10 breakfasts, 4 lunch, & 6 dinners) during the tour.

Admissions & Sightseeing

All sightseeing, experiences, and admissions as outlined in the itinerary.

Experiences

Includes iconic experiences such as the Great Barrier Reef excursion, Sydney Opera House tour, Sydney Harbour dinner cruise, and Milford Sound cruise.

What's not included

Hometown Pickup

Optional Hometown Pickup Service (roundtrip airport transportation) is available for $150 per person.

Travel Protection

Optional Travel Protection is available and explained during the booking process.

Gratuities

Gratuities for your Tour Manager and local staff are not included. We recommend budgeting approximately $15–$20 per person, per day.

Airline Bag Fees

Checked baggage fees and seat assignment fees are not included and vary by airline.

Personal Expenses

Items of a personal nature such as beverages, souvenirs, laundry, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Documents

Passports and any required travel documentation are the responsibility of the traveler.

Meals Not Listed

Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary are not included.

Location

Loading Map…

1. Sydney NSW, Australia

Sydney NSW, Australia

About your organizer

AT
American Tours
Thanks to all of you who have chosen to travel with us in the past. Welcome to those who enjoy the adventure and rewards of exploring new places, meeting new people and experiencing the personal attention to which we are committed. Our success is attributable to your satisfaction. We measure that success by the enjoyment, appreciation and learning you experience when you travel with us. We are a professional travel company, and have been taking trips for over 30 years! Join us as we traverse the globe and seek out exciting places to vi

Reviews

Photo gallery

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5
Image 6
Image 7
Image 8
Image 9
Image 10
© 2026 American Tours