Saving Guarantee

Kiwi Escapes Savings Guarantee

We guarantee to beat any competitor self-guided tour package price or value by a minimum of 15% ("price-beat") as follows:

Note: By requesting the price-beat you are under no obligation to place a booking with us or proceed with the final tour package as the case may be.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

Inclusions in travel and tour packages assembled by travel agents, tour companies, wholesalers, online travel promoters and others will all be different in some way. Packages will vary by inclusions, validity, suppliers, component type, standard, terms and conditions etc ("package components"). We will have access to most suppliers and types of inclusions as well as alternatives.

Our objective in a price-beat situation is to assemble a package containing similar and/or higher standard package components to that which you present to us. We guarantee to offer at least 15% more total value or a price that is 15% lower than the competitor quote. Any package components that are exclusive to specific suppliers to which we do not have access will not be included.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

The above and following terms and conditions apply to travel plans and tour-package pricing requested from and supplied by Travel Directions Pty. Ltd. trading as Kiwi Escapes and are subject to change without notice. These conditions are to be read in conjunction with our standard booking conditions.

The price-beat must be requested before you place a booking with any other tour or travel agent, online booking agent or tour operator direct in relation to the subject package.

A price-beat may be requested by providing information regarding the competitor quote and your requirements to an employee of the company who performs a reservations or travel consultant role ("company contact") as follows:

  1. Information regarding a tour or travel package must be provided to us in the form of a written quotation by the competitor travel agent or other supplier as applicable, or by supplying other written or photographic evidence containing full package details via email to the company contact.
  2. Your exact booking requirements including travel/booking dates, number and age of travellers and special requirements if any.

Your assigned travel agent will contact you to discuss and confirm the details then will submit a travel plan for approval.

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  • 8 Days NZ South Island Holiday
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    Booking enquiry

    8 Days NZ South Island Holiday

    From wildlife encounters to relaxing boat cruises, you, your partner, family or friends will be spoiled for choice on this exciting 8-day South Island adventure.

    This 8-day South Island package is the perfect self-drive option for an unforgettable couples, friends or family getaway. Become an outdoor explorer and get to know local wildlife when you board a scenic cruise in Milford Sound; climb aboard Queenstown's Skyline Gondola for epic views and a luxury dinner experience; experience the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier from the air (optional activity) and put your feet in the snow on an unforgettable helicopter experience, and much more.

    Unforgettable snow landing experience available
    Unforgettable snow landing experience available
    -

    YOU PAY FROM AFTER GCASH TRAVEL CREDITS

    DESTINATION
    NEW ZEALAND
    THEME
    FAMILY
    PRICE FROM
    NZD $2,079
    FLIGHTS INC.
    PACKAGE TYPES
    SELF-GUIDED
    PHYSICAL LEVEL
    3/10

    Trip Highlights

     

    There are so many spectacular experiences on this trip, but perhaps the highlight is the optional Fox Glacier helicopter flight with snow landing. Explore spectacular glaciers and white-capped mountains before putting your feet in snow on Mount Cook. Truly an unforgettable experience.

    Ruby Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Ruby self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Ruby package - self-guided from NZD $2,079pp twin-share [Save $1,076]

    Ruby delivers extra inclusions and value above Sapphire packages. The Ruby package includes all or most activities in the price and steps up a class in things like car hire, transfer services, breakfasts and more. Very high quality Silver and Gold standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    • Nature
    • Adventure
    • On the water
    • Special interest
    • Sightseeing
    • Family activities
    • New cultures
    • Learning
    • Wildlife

    Be delighted by these experiences:

    Milford Sound Cruise + Underwater Observatory Experience

    Explore Milford Sound's stunning fjord from the water on a tranquil 3-hour cruise. As you take in the stunning beauty of the sound, savour a tasty lunch as well as a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory, New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory.

    Fox Glacier Helicopter Flight + Snow landing

    See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook during your snow landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook. (Optional activity)

    More trip highlights:

    local_activity
    Queenstown Highlights Morning Tour

    See Queenstown’s 5 best sights and activities on a fun-packed morning tour. Visit Queenstown Hill for spectacular birds eye views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and Lord of the Rings locations. Enjoy a selection of wines at Gibbston Valley Winery. Be transported to Middle Earth at the Kawarau Gorge, film location for the Pillars of the Kings, and so much more.

    local_activity
    Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

    Enjoy a scenic cruise through calm waters before descending into the curious caves to see walls covered in the sparkle of glowworms. Led by an ecological expert, ride on a small boat into a hidden grotto and witness the glittering displays of thousands of these luminous insects.

    local_activity
    Queenstown Gondola & Dinner

    Take a scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola and take in the stunning views as you ride the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! At the top of the Gondola, treat yourself to a sumptuous buffet dinner at Skyline’s Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar.

    View the itinerary for a comprehensive view of the trip highlights.

    Value Pricing

    Ruby self-guided package
    Ruby Self-guided
    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!
    From NZD $2,079pp twin-share [Save $1,076]
    • Return flights to Queenstown International Airport (ZQN)
    • 8 days car hire included
    • 8 days of touring and sight-seeing
    • 8 towns and other places of interest visited
    • 7 nights' top-class accommodation
    • 3 excellent excursions and activities
    • 1 restaurant dinner

    See full inclusions

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    FAQ: Single, twin-share and more

    What is twin-share, triple-share and quad-share?

    The share-basis is about accommodation pricing. It does not mean that you share a room with a stranger.

    "Twin-share" is where two people occupy a hotel room (open-plan style) or other accommodation such as an apartment, usually a couple or two friends. This is the normal way accommodation is priced. The price is shared between two people. Most accommodation properties (eg. hotels) offer rooms with king, queen or double beds. Most offer the option of "twin" beds as well which actually means two single beds to accommodate singles sharing, couples wanting space and so-on.

    "Triple share" is where three people occupy the accommodation and share the price. "Quad-share" is where four people occupy the accommodation and share the price. Family apartments and hotel rooms usually include a king, queen or double bed and one or more single beds to handle triple and quad-share arrangements. Sometimes other bedding configurations are available as well.

    What is a seasonal adjustment?

    Some accommodation providers, especially in very popular holiday locations, have higher room rates for busy holiday periods (usually spring and summer holidays). We must make an allowance for those price variations if applicable.

    What is a single supplement?

    A "single supplement" applies to single travellers who want a room to themselves. Because the price is not shared, a "single supplement" applies. This additional amount is based on the single covering the entire accommodation component of the trip that would normally be split between two or more people.

    * All prices and payments are in New Zealand dollars (NZD). Currency conversions are estimated only. Prices are per-person on a twin-share basis unless stated otherwise and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available here.

    Inclusions

     

    Covering an immense distance at a leisurely pace, this trip serves as the perfect getaway for those looking to unearth some of New Zealand's most serene delights and enjoy its abundance of exhilarating activities.

    Ruby Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Ruby self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Ruby package - self-guided from NZD $2,079pp twin-share [Save $1,076]

    Ruby delivers extra inclusions and value above Sapphire packages. The Ruby package includes all or most activities in the price and steps up a class in things like car hire, transfer services, breakfasts and more. Very high quality Silver and Gold standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    "From turquoise lakes and lush peninsulas to snowcapped mountains and sparkling glaciers, the South Island's majestic landscapes offer awe and adventure in equal measure."

    This is a first-class itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Inclusions list:

    Exclusions and options:

    • A professional tour director is available for medium to large groups
    • Meals can be arranged

    Other information:

    • Add extra nights wherever you want and pay the lowest member rates
    • Based on a minimum of 4 people travelling but can be priced for any number
    • Hand-picked, top-rated hotels, all tried and trusted
    • Variety of optional excursions and tours available

    All packages include:

    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Extra nights at industry wholesale price (using GCash travel credits)
    • Google Drive folder with soft copies of all travel documents
    • Personal travel consultant to help plan and customize your holiday
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary and travel documents

    Other information:

    This tour package is entirely flexible and can be customised to suit your group's interests and number of participants.

    Some substitution of activities might be required subject to travel date and/or day of week as not all activities operate seven days a week.

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard (retail) price comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what would be payable by a non-member for the same package. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

     

    Grab the family and embark on this 8-day scenic getaway; a fantastic trip that will give you a wonderful 'taste' of the South Island’s beauty and diversity. Visit it's exciting urban hub of Queenstown, with stops to Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier, Mt Cook and Te Anau along the way. There's so many exciting memories waiting for you to create, all you have to do it hit the road...

    "Travel doesn't become adventure until you leave yourself behind" - Marty Rubin

    Your day-to-day itinerary:

    Ruby Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Ruby self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Ruby package - self-guided from NZD $2,079pp twin-share [Save $1,076]

    Ruby delivers extra inclusions and value above Sapphire packages. The Ruby package includes all or most activities in the price and steps up a class in things like car hire, transfer services, breakfasts and more. Very high quality Silver and Gold standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

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    DAY 1
    QUEENSTOWN (4 NIGHTS)

    Queenstown is one of New Zealand's most exciting destinations. Surrounded by towering mountains, positioned on the edge of a lake, Queenstown is a hub of adventure, thrumming with adrenaline and an omnipresent sense of fun.

    Getting here:

    flight
    Return flights to Queenstown

    Starting and ending in Queenstown, enjoy return flights to and from this exciting urban hub.

    Your hire car:

    drive_eta
    8 days car hire

    Explore at your own pace with quality 4x4 car hire in New Zealand. Standard package includes a Toyota Corolla or similar.

    (Car type is subject to availability.)

    About today:

    Spend 4 nights in gorgeous Queenstown

    Today marks the first day of your spectacular South Island holiday

    After your flight, pick up your hire car and spend the rest of the day settling in and exploring Queenstown at your own pace. Walk the town's paved streets and visit it's abundance of shops. If you arrive in the morning then the family rafting experience will be a heap of fun in the afternoon. Or head out to nearby Arrowtown and Frankton and soak up the spectacular scenery and their quaint country-town charms.

    Located in the heart of Queenstown, this accommodation provides easy access to all of the town's best attractions.
    Relax in style.
    hotel
    4 nights accommodation in Queenstown

    Renowned for its fantastic range of adventure sports, the gorgeous resort town Queenstown is also an excellent base for exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns.

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    DAY 2
    QUEENSTOWN

    About today:

    Enjoy a selection of wines at Gibbston Valley Winery

    Be transported to Middle Earth and beyond!

    This morning we're off on a fun-packed tour to Queenstown’s 5 best sights and activities; visit Queenstown Hill for spectacular birds eye views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and Lord of the Rings locations. Enjoy a selection of wines at Gibbston Valley Winery. Be transported to Middle Earth at the Kawarau Gorge, film location for the Pillars of the Kings, and so much more.

    After your tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. An optional excursion to Kiwi Birdlife Park is available in the afternoon.

    Activities:

    local_activity
    Queenstown Highlights Morning Tour

    See Queenstown’s 5 best sights and activities on a fun-packed morning tour.

    (Included)
    local_activity
    Visit Kiwi Birdlife Park

    Great family fun. Enjoy the sight and sounds of New Zealand's wildlife and bush in a 5 acre breeding sanctuary. See real kiwi and over 20 other native birds and reptiles, including the Tuatara. Experience conservation in action. (Children under 5 years free.)

    (Optional NZD $39 Adult price)
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    DAY 3
    QUEENSTOWN - MILFORD SOUND - LAKE TE ANAU - QUEENSTOWN

    Situated on the west coast of the South Island, hours from the nearest town, Milford Sound is where plunging cliffs and raging waterfalls meet inky dark waters. This is New Zealand's wild side at its absolute best.

    About today:

    Milford Sound cruise

    "Spectacular" and "amazing" will be just a few of the words you will use today

    After breakfast, journey 3 hours north-west to Milford Sound, where you will enjoy the stunning fjord from the water on a tranquil 3-hour cruise. As you take in the stunning beauty of the sound, savour a tasty lunch as well as a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory, New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory.

    On your way back to Queenstown, descend into Te Anau's curious caves to see walls covered in the sparkle of glowworms.

    Activities:

    local_activity
    Milford Sound Cruise + Underwater Observatory Experience

    Explore Milford Sound's stunning fjord from the water on a tranquil 3-hour cruise, a tasty lunch as well as a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory.

    (Included)
    local_activity
    Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

    Enjoy a scenic cruise through calm waters before descending into the curious caves to see walls covered in the sparkle of glowworms.

    (Included)
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    DAY 4
    QUEENSTOWN

    About today:

    Visit the shimmering Lake Wakatipu

    Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Consider a must-do fishing trip.

    Spend your time relaxing by the water, or head out for a drive along Glenorchy-Queenstown Road; taking you alongside the shimmering blue Lake Wakatipu, this drive is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world.

    In the evening, embark on a scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola and take in the stunning views as you ride the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! At the top of the Gondola, treat yourself to a sumptuous buffet dinner at Skyline’s Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar. For some fun, why not ride the exciting luge track.

    Activities:

    restaurant
    Queenstown Gondola & Dinner

    Take a scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola and treat yourself at the top to a sumptuous buffet dinner at Skyline’s Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar.

    (Included)
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    DAY 5
    QUEENSTOWN - WANAKA - FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER (2 NIGHTS)

    Franz Josef is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village; the small but lively Franz Josef Waiau village is surrounded by lush rainforest with the high snow-capped Alps above. The glacier itself descends into the lush native rainforest and is home to truly incredible features such as ice caves, tunnels, seracs and crevasses.

    About today:

    Franz Josef Glacier

    This is a beautiful part of the country

    Today your journey will take you through some special villages and the stunning Glacier region to Franz Josef. Take your time and make stops at Arrowtown, scenic Diana Falls and Ship Creek for some sight seeing. You will also pass through Wanaka; a great place to stop for lunch, keeping in mind you will be back in Wanaka in a couple of days. Upon arrival in Franz Josef, check-in to your accommodation and spend the rest of the evening settling in and soaking up the village atmosphere and spectacular scenery.

    Enjoy the area's natural beauty and exciting attractions, all from your accommodation's doorstep.
    Room for the whole family.
    hotel
    2 nights accommodation in Franz Josef

    The hospitable town of Franz Josef serves the glacier of the same name. Stay here while you explore this spectacular World Heritage Area and enjoy its spectacular scenery.

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    DAY 6
    FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER - FOX GLACIER - MOUNT COOK - FRANZ JOSEF

    About today:

    Take the easy walk to the famous mirror lake from Fox Glacier township

    Get there by helicopter or take the scenic walk

    After breakfast, you have the option to embark on an exciting Fox Glacier Helicopter experience. See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook during your snow landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Mt Cook.

    The rest of your day can be spent relaxing. Explore the local area, or head over to Franz Josef hot pools and do the short (1km return) walk to Peters Pool. The township of Fox Glacier is only 30 minutes away and from there you can takre the walk to the famous Lake Matheson. From Fox Glacier township follow Cook Flat Road out of town, turn at the side road to Lake Matheson.

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    DAY 7
    FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER - WANAKA (1 NIGHT)

    Located in the spectacular alps of the South Island, New Zealand, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding beauty. The stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Area, makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities.

    About today:

    Explore the picturesque Lake Wanaka

    Wanaka has everything to keep even the most active traveller happy

    Today you will be making the journey back to Wanaka, with stops at “The Neck” lookout and Blue Pools forest walk which will provide you with beautiful views of the river.

    The hardest thing here is deciding what to do! Explore nearby Mt Aspiring National Park, discover pristine rivers, waterfalls, native forests and mountains on one of the many tracks. Wanaka has over 750km of trails that are made for walking, hiking and mountain biking. If a relaxing holiday is more your style, there’s plenty of stunning vistas to appreciate, boutique retail stores, museums, cinemas and art galleries to keep you entertained. Spend your time soaking up last minute experiences and just relaxing as you enjoy your last full-day in New Zealand.

    Set amongst the mountains, this accommodation will have you relaxing amongst breathtaking scenery.
    With lots of space to fit the whole family.
    hotel
    1 night accommodation in Wanaka

    A lively town buzzing with a carefree spirit, Wanaka’s picture-perfect location and easy access to the outdoors makes it the ultimate base for your holiday.

    local_activity
    Taste of Wanaka Bike Tour

    This is a fun way to see Wanaka with your mates while getting to enjoy some of the best food, wine and beer of the region. Made even better on an e-bike, making the day a breeze!

    (Optional NZD $109 Adult price)
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    DAY 8
    WANAKA - QUEENSTOWN - RETURN HOME

    About today:

    An unforgettable family adventure

    Unfortunately it's time to head home

    Enjoy a delicious breakfast and say goodbye to Wanaka before hitting the road for the 1-hour drive to back to Queenstown airport. Return your hire car before you check-in for your return flight home.

    Want more of NZ? Consider one of our longer itineraries for endless fun touring.

    FAQ's for This Package

    ≡

    Are flights included?

    Yes, a provision for flights is included in this package. You can also use Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers at the rate of 1 per traveler to reduce the overall price.

    How flexible is this tour package? Is there a minimum number of people? Can we add and change things to suit ourselves?

    Pricing is based on a minimum of four travelers, however all of our travel and tour packages are fully flexible. Each is a TEMPLATE to be used as a framework around which you can customise an itinerary to suit. The minimum numbers are flexible as well and groups can be as small as two people for a self-guided holiday. After discussion, we'll go away and prepare a tour plan (including best value pricing) to suit your ideas and preferences.

    Is accommodation supplied for this trip and if so, what type of accommodation is it?

    Accommodation is supplied in Queenstown for 4 nights, Franz Josef Glacier for 2 nights, and Wanaka for 1 night. It will be resort or hotel style rated Silver Standard or above. This means, very high quality accommodation. Bedding is arranged to suit the number of persons staying. All accommodation is subject to change subject according to availability however it will be as central as possible and very high quality.

    Are all listed activities included in the advertised tours or are they extra? Is there any more to pay?

    We try to include as much as possible to avoid any surprises however some optional activities might be offered. Included activities are shown on each listing. Also shown are exclusions.

    Will I be joining an existing shared tour or will this be exclusively for our group?

    The introductory package is self-guided (self-drive) and exclusive to your group. All tour packages are flexible. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for your group size as pricing is often affected by the number of people.

    Will there be anyone at each location or attraction on this tour to guide and show us around?

    This tour includes attractions where a guide will provide information to enhance your experience. A professional tour director is provided and recommended for exclusive charters of 20 or more people. A group trip organiser may also fill this role.

    General Tour Package FAQ's

    ≡

    Do you cater to special interests where smaller groups or singles can break away from the main group?

    Yes, the idea of our tour packages is to get you to the destinations on the itinerary where you can stay with the main group or go off on your own if you prefer. Flexibility is the essential ingredient.

    Is this a self-guided (self-drive) tour package?

    Yes. This is a great value self-guided (self-drive) tour package. You will be supplied with either a standard car or SUV according to the package inclusions. The idea is to use our itinerary as a guide. We take care of the flights, accommodation and other inclusions so you can focus on having a great time.

    Do you provide wheelchair access on your trips?

    Yes, however please ensure that you mention this requirement so we can be certain that arrangements are made where needed. You do need to be traveling with a person who will provide personal assistance.

    Do your tours still operate if it is raining?

    Yes, and if rain is forecast you should be prepared with a compact umbrella or rainproof jacket as preferred.

    Do you cater to special dietary requirements on these trips?

    Yes we do. Dietary requirements affect included set meals and will be taken into consideration during the planning process.

    What options or assistance is available for groups to run their own tours.

    All tours can be operated on a "Group-guided" basis. A complete "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" manual is supplied to the group leader (trip organizer). Included is a comprehensive daily itinerary, driver instructions and information about each part of your tour to enable you to provide entertaining commentary. Also included are checklists and reminders about daily tasks. The end-result is easy-flowing trip organisation, fewer issues and very happy tour participants. Overall it means less stress and a lot more fun for everyone.

    If we are traveling as a group on an exclusive charter, will there be a tour manager or leader?

    If a tour director is supplied in an example tour package it will be shown as an inclusion. But this is very flexible and if not included as standard, can be arranged if preferred. If you are part of a social group such as Probus, the trip organiser will often enjoy taking on this role. We provide comprehensive information and guidance for "hands-on" trip organisers. This includes a "how-to" guide and starter information about the places visited on the tour.

    Can a tour be tailored to what our group is interested in?

    Yes, definitely. All charter tour packages are simply "templates" as a starting point for customising a tour to suit. We then we apply the discounts available to you, your club or corporate group.

    Will I be joining an existing shared tour or will this be exclusively for our group?

    All tour packages are flexible. Various options are already published. (See the Pricing section for the tour you are interested in.) "Join departure" tour types are tours where you can join a tour group leaving on various departure dates. This suit couples and singles. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for an exclusive charter to suit your group.

    Are all listed activities included in the advertised tour packages or are they extra? Is there any more to pay?

    See a list of standard inclusions on the package details page. Some packages have two or three different package classes with different inclusions. Select the optional package class to see included activities. Optional activities are shown separately. Your travel consultant will discuss optional activities with you so you can decide what to include or leave out of your itinerary. You can also swap and change activities. A price variance might apply.

    What is the difference between "Self-guided", "Group-guided" and "Fully-guided" tours?

    "Self-guided" (self-drive) is a trip designed for singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people (such as two to four couples) traveling together using a single car or 7 to 12-seater van depending on group size. It means that you drive yourself on the trip. "Group-guided" means the tour is for a larger group on a bus with a professional driver and the group leader (trip organizer) as tour director. A professional tour director can be supplied if required. A "fully-guided" bus tour is operated by a driver-guide or tour director. There are usually preset departures that you can join. Fully-guided tours can also be arranged exclusively for a group and this is called a "group charter".

    What is "audio-guide" equipment?

    One of the challenges in managing tour groups is making sure everyone can hear what is being said. Audio-guide equipment enables the tour guide or manager to communicate via microphone and headset with all members of the tour group. For groups of 12 or more a tour-guide system is recommended.

    Can I specify the type of accommodation I want?

    We will recommend accommodation to meet your preferences. All accommodation is selected using our exclusive hotel rating system. You can then change the accommodation if preferred. Often you will also have a choice of accommodation types at the recommended accommodation properties. We'll find out your preferences in the early stages of planning your trip.

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    FAQ: Tour package types and flexibility

    What is a "Self-guided" tour?

    This means you are in full control of your trip including driving. You will have a rental car (uncluded in the package) to get you around. The vehicle size varies according to preference and/or group size. Self-guided is aimed at singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people.

    Our job is to organise most things for you in advance saving you a lot of time, stress and money. You'll receive a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information plus a FREE Lonely Planet guide to fill in the gaps. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and to do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Group-guided" tour?

    Group-guided is aimed at groups of 12 or more people. "Group-guided" means you or another person runs the tour as would a tour director. A tour coach and professional driver is supplied.

    The included "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" helps you run the tour, plus you receive a FREE Lonely Planet guide. Included is a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information as a well as a driver itinerary.

    We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Fully-guided" tour?

    Fully-guided tours are aimed at larger groups on a charter basis, the same as "Group-guided", except that the tour is run by a professional tour director.

    Transport is a tour coach and professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously. A fully-guided tour means everyone can relax including the trip organiser.

    What is a "Join departure" tour?

    You join a fully-guided tour that starts on an available departure date. Small and large groups can join a departure, however the tour is focused on the interests of the broader group. You can appoint a leader specifically for your group if preferred to focus on separate interests.

    The tour is run by a professional tour director. Transport can vary from a 8 to 12-seater commuter bus, driven by the tour director, up to a 54-seat luxury coach with professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance and there is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

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    Agent Contact Request

    An experienced travel consultant will contact you as quickly as possible. Not good with forms? Phone 1800 669 579.

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