Independent Best of Australia & New Zealand with Fiji
Independent Best of Australia & New Zealand with Fiji
Independent Best of Australia & New Zealand with Fiji
18 Days Starting in Cairns QLD, Australia and ending in Nadi, Fiji
Visiting: Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Sydney, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Rotorua, Auckland, Nadi, Coral Coast
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IPO4-2025
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
5-80
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the "Independent Best of Australia & New Zealand with Fiji" tour, exploring the natural wonders and vibrant cultures of three stunning countries. Begin your journey in tropical Cairns, Australia, with a breathtaking catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the awe-inspiring Uluru and the bustling city life of Sydney. In New Zealand, discover the adventure capital of Queenstown and the serene beauty of Milford Sound. Conclude your trip with a relaxing stay on Fiji's Coral Coast. Enjoy daily breakfasts, select lunches, and comfortable accommodations, with seamless transfers between destinations. This tour promises a perfect blend of wildlife, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Cairns,Australia
Location: Cairns
Accommodation Name: Pullman Cairns International
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Welcome to tropical Cairns! The balance of the day is at your leisure. Your Local Host is available to make recommendations for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
Day 2: Cairns. Excursion To The Outer Great Barrier Reef
Location: Great Barrier Reef
Accommodation Name: Pullman Cairns International
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
CAIRNS. EXCURSION TO THE OUTER GREAT BARRIER REEF • Prepare for the experience of a lifetime when you board a catamaran and cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore this underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of coral and sea life. Choose to snorkel, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or attend a presentation by a marine biologist. Late this afternoon, return to Cairns. (B,L)
Day 3: Cairns
Location: Cairns
Accommodation Name: Pullman Cairns International
Meals Included: Breakfast
CAIRNS • A full day at leisure to explore more of Cairns. (B)Today's I-Time TipsPerhaps select an optional excursion to see crocodiles, kangaroos, and koalas, or to the quiet mountain village of Kuranda via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Other options: try your luck at fishing, visit the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, or check out the many shops and galleries along Cairns’ famous Esplanade.
Day 4: Cairns,Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Location: Uluru
Accommodation Name: Desert Gardens Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
CAIRNS–ULURU (AYERS ROCK) • Today, fly to Uluru. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)
Day 5: Uluru
Location: Uluru
Accommodation Name: Desert Gardens Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
ULURU • Rise early for an inspiring sunrise over Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). Witness incredible views over the dunes and stunning desert landscape. Continue to Walpa Gorge for a guided walk-through Kata Tjuta. This afternoon, visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, which houses an amazing collection of ceramics, paintings, and punu (woodwork) from the Anangu people, the traditional custodians of Uluru. Finish the day at “Sunset Strip” for a drink and canapés, and to witness the changing colors of the rock. (B)
Day 6: Uluru,Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
ULURU–SYDNEY • Fly to beautiful Sydney, Australia’s largest city. The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Why not grab dinner at a waterside restaurant and take in the energy of this vibrant city? Your Local Host is available to make recommendations and point you in the right direction. (B)
Day 7: Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY • Enjoy a morning guided sightseeing tour which includes a photo stop at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Then, visit Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches. The remainder of the day is yours to explore. (B)Today's I-Time TipsYou may want to enjoy a cruise on Sydney Harbour to admire stunning views of the city from the water or visit Taronga Zoo to see some of Australia’s native animals, such as koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses. Your Local Host will have suggestions for sightseeing, dining, and shopping.
Day 8: Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY• Enjoy a full day at leisure in this beautiful city. (B)Today's I-Time TipsWith your free time today, why not see the city from new heights with a climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge or discover Sydney’s storied past on the Rocks Pub Tour. Travel out of town to the scenic Blue Mountains or sample wines in Hunter Valley. You may also choose to shop for souvenirs, explore the restaurants of Barangaroo, or take a ferry to nearby Manly Beach.
Day 9: Sydney,Queenstown,New Zealand
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY–QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND• Fly to Queenstown, New Zealand’s “Adventure Capital.” The remainder of the day is at leisure. Your Local Host is available for sightseeing, shopping, and dining suggestions.(B)
Day 10: Queenstown. Excursion To Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND • Enjoy a full-day excursion to Milford Sound. First, travel by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. View the Mirror Lakes as you pass through Eglinton Valley. From the Homer Tunnel, emerge into Cleddau Valley. Join your Milford Sound cruise for an unforgettable experience. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as dolphins and penguins and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls and scenery. Return to Queenstown late this evening. (B)
Day 11: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN• Enjoy a full day to explore more of beautiful Queenstown. (B)Today's I-Time TipsChoose an optional visit to a local winery to sample some of New Zealand’s best wines, take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River, or tour some of the sites used in The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. Your Local Host will be available to make sightseeing, shopping, and dining recommendations.
Day 12: Queenstown,Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN–ROTORUA• Fly to Rotorua, known for its hot springs, geysers, and fascinating Māori culture. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
Day 13: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
ROTORUA• Guided sightseeing includes a visit to Agrodome, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry, the National Kiwi Hatchery, and to Te Puia, where you’ll explore this geothermal wonderland. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)Today's I-Time TipsChoose to join an optional Māori (indigenous Polynesian people) cultural performance and Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). Other options include a relaxing soak in one of the therapeutic pools at the Polynesian Spa, a magical treetop walk through the Redwoods, or a helicopter tour to see this scenic region by air.
Day 14: Rotorua,Waitomo,Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
ROTORUA–WAITOMO–AUCKLAND• Head north to Waitomo, where you will take a boat ride through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Continue to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Your evening is at leisure. (B,L)Today's I-Time TipsWhy not taste some fresh local fare at one of Auckland’s many superb restaurants on the water? Sip a glass of local wine or try a craft beer. The choices are endless!
Day 15: Auckland,Nadi,Fiji,Coral Coast
Location: Nadi
Accommodation Name: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
AUCKLAND–NADI, FIJI–CORAL COAST• Today, fly to Nadi, Fiji, and transfer to your resort on the Coral Coast. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Your Local Host is available to answer questions and make suggestions for sightseeing and dining.(B)
Day 16: Coral Coast
Location: Coral Coast
Accommodation Name: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
CORAL COAST • Today is at leisure. (B) Today’s I-Time TipsMake sure to check the daily activities offered at your resort. You may wish to take a dip in the pool, enjoy a Fijian handicraft demonstration, get pampered at the spa, spend some time in the water with kayaks or paddleboards, or simply enjoy an amazing sunset with a cool tropical drink.
Day 17: Coral Coast
Location: Coral Coast
Accommodation Name: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
CORAL COAST • This morning’s highlight is a half-day Sigatoka River Safari. Be transported into the heart and soul of Fiji, aboard a custom-built jet boat. Cruise your way up the magnificent Sigatoka River to visit an authentic Fijian village and experience a day in the life of the real “Kaiviti” (Fijian). The remainder of your day is yours to explore. (B,L)Today's I-Time TipsRelax on one of the beautiful beaches on the Coral Coast or sample the freshest local cuisine the area is known for!
Day 18: Coral Coast,Nadi
Location: Nadi
Meals Included: Breakfast
CORAL COAST–NADI • Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Pullman Cairns International, Desert Gardens Hotel, Swissotel Sydney, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront, Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Adina Auckland Britomart, and Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.
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Meals
Daily breakfast is included.
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Transport
Transfers from/to your hotel to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights are included.
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Sightseeing
Sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary is included, excluding any suggested optional excursions.
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Additional Meals
Breakfast daily and 3 lunches are included.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO Sites including Great Barrier Reef, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and Wet Tropics of Queensland are included.
What's Not Included
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Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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International Travel
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily; 3 lunches
UNESCO Sites
Great Barrier Reef|Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park|Wet Tropics of Queensland
Accommodation
Cairns: Pullman Cairns International, Uluru: Desert Gardens Hotel, Sydney: Swissotel Sydney, Queenstown: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront, Rotorua: Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Auckland: Adina Auckland Britomart, Coral Coast: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.
Mode of Transport
Transfers from/to your hotel to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights.
Notes
During the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, certain activities may not be available. A different activity may be substituted or a refund offered if your included activity is not available. Intra-tour flights not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included during the tour?
Transfers from/to your hotel to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights are included.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfast and 3 lunches are included in the tour package.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Pullman Cairns International, Desert Gardens Hotel, Swissotel Sydney, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront, Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Adina Auckland Britomart, and Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.
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Will I have a local guide during the tour?
Yes, a Local Host will be available at various points during the tour to make recommendations for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
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Are international flights included in the tour package?
No, international flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package.
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What activities are available during the visit to the Great Barrier Reef?
During the visit to the Great Barrier Reef, you can choose to snorkel, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or attend a presentation by a marine biologist.
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What can I expect during the visit to Uluru?
At Uluru, you will witness a sunrise over Uluru and Kata Tjuta, take a guided walk through Walpa Gorge, visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, and enjoy a drink and canapés at 'Sunset Strip' while watching the changing colors of the rock.
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What is included in the Milford Sound excursion?
The Milford Sound excursion includes a motorcoach journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, viewing the Mirror Lakes, passing through Eglinton Valley, and a cruise on Milford Sound where you can see wildlife such as dolphins and penguins, as well as breathtaking waterfalls and scenery.
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What should I know about the sightseeing schedule in Fiji?
If your included sightseeing in Fiji is scheduled to take place on a Sunday, it will operate on Monday instead. Your Local Host will have full details upon your arrival.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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