Grand Australia & New Zealand

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, The Langham Melbourne. A transfer is included from Melbourne Airport to The Langham Melbourne. Your journey begins with a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner at the hotel. Stay Two Nights: The Langham, Melbourne (D)

You'll see a lot of Melbourne on a sightseeing tour of the city, including a guided walking tour to discover the real city (and its amazing coffee) along its distinctive laneways. The rest of the day and evening are yours to spend as you please in Melbourne; enjoy lunch and dinner as you please. (B)

Take a morning private charter flight to the heart of Australia's desert Outback, arriving at Ayers Rock ( Uluru ) for lunch and an overnight stay at Sails in the Desert in the country's "Red Centre." In the evening, the light of the setting sun bathes the mystical rock with a palette of ever-changing color... and you'll enjoy the natural "show" with canapés and champagne overlooking the monolith. Stay: Sails in the Desert (B/L)

Aboriginal traditions define life in the Outback, especially at Uluru ( Ayers Rock ); learn about the "dreamtime" legends associated with this massive monolith on a guided tour this morning. Fly via private charter to Cairns in Queensland, gateway to the amazing Great Barrier Reef. Board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, taking you over and through the rainforest canopy; disembark in the mountain village of Kuranda.

Continue on to Silky Oaks Lodge, your luxury eco lodge on the Mossman River adjacent to Daintree National Park, to begin a three-night rainforest resort stay. Stay Three Nights: Silky Oaks Lodge (B/D)

Spend a full day exploring one of Earth's most incredible "living" sites, the Great Barrier Reef – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only living structure on Earth visible from the moon. Activity choices include a catamaran cruise to the Agincourt Reef; an adventure boat trip for scuba divers and snorkelers; or a relaxing spa day at the lodge. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and evening at your resort. (B/L/D)

Early risers may choose to soar over the Atherton Tablelands on an optional hot air balloon ride* at dawn (an additional charge per person; see pricing details).

The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish at your rainforest resort and spa, or explore the area as you please. Enjoy dinner tonight at the lodge. (B/L/D)

It's all about crocodiles at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, one of Queensland's most renowned wildlife parks and a leader in crocodile conservation. Here you'll come face to face with some of Australia's most iconic creatures – and enjoy a meet-and-greet with a crocodile.

A visit to a private enclosure offers the chance to see native wildlife in a more natural setting, where you might cross paths with Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Agile Wallabies, Pademelons, Koalas, Wombats, and more. Your time includes a guided tour and crocodile feeding presentation that brings the park's mission to life, as well as an exclusive boat cruise on Hartley's lagoon, gliding through waters that are home to the resident saltwater crocodiles. After lunch, fly to Sydney via private charter for a three-night stay in the heart of the city at InterContinental Sydney, in guest rooms overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour. Stay Three Nights: InterContinental Sydney (B/L/D)

This morning, set out on a guided walking tour that takes you deep into the history of Sydney's oldest and most storied neighborhood, The Rocks. It was here, at the foot of Sydney Harbour Bridge, that Britain's First Fleet first stepped ashore in 1788, beginning a new chapter in Australia's story. Cobblestone lanes and sandstone cottages survive from those early days, their weathered facades whispering tales of convicts, soldiers, sailors, and merchants who once made their living in this rugged port community.

As you wander through narrow alleys and past heritage-listed pubs, your guide reveals how this once-notorious quarter has transformed into one of the city's most vibrant districts, alive with markets, galleries, and cafés, yet still layered with the character of its past. Views of the harbor glimmer between rooftops, adding another dimension to the neighborhood's mix of history and vitality.

By midday, your walk concludes, leaving the afternoon free for you to experience Sydney in your own way. You might choose to stroll the leafy pathways of the Royal Botanic Garden, where manicured lawns and colorful flower beds overlook the glittering waters of the harbor. Or perhaps you'll explore one of the city's museums or art galleries, where the stories of Australia's Indigenous cultures and colonial heritage are told through remarkable collections. Some may prefer to browse the boutiques and arcades that line George Street, blending modern Australian style with architectural gems from the 19th century.

Return to your hotel at leisure, where the remainder of the day and evening are yours to enjoy. You may simply wish to relax, taking time to reflect on the morning's discoveries, or step back out to experience Sydney after dark – when the lights of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House illuminate the skyline, and the city's lively dining scene offers an endless array of choices. (B/L)

Begin the day with an unforgettable visit to one of Australia's most iconic landmarks, the spectacular Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its architectural brilliance. Enjoy an exclusive private tour that offers a behind-the-scenes look at its fascinating design and history. Next, embark on a private cruise across the shimmering waters of Sydney Harbour, taking in breathtaking views of its skyline and landmarks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Continue your adventure with a guided city tour showcasing Sydney's rich heritage, vibrant neighborhoods, and famous attractions. The rest of the day is yours to explore. (B/L)

Bid Australia a fond farewell this morning and board a flight across the Tasman Sea, bound for New Zealand. Whether you purchase your international flights independently or through Tauck, all guests are required to purchase an additional on-tour flight (the trans-Tasman flight on Day 10, Qantas flight 161 between Sydney and Wellington) on their own, which is not included in the total tour cost. First stop is Wellington, New Zealand's intimate waterfront capital with an impressive artistic and cultural edge. Accommodations for the next two nights are Club Rooms at InterContinental Wellington; enjoy a 3-course dinner at the hotel this evening. Stay Two Nights: InterContinental Wellington (B/D)

Discover Wellington on a tour that begins city center with a cable car ride for great views of the city, harbour, and Parliament Buildings.

Next up is Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, where you'll have a guided orientation to its five floors focusing on the country's exceptional nature, art, history, the Pacific and Maori culture. Touring its exhibits is like actually experiencing thousands of years of New Zealand's history in person, as motion simulators and interactive exhibits include you in the journey. The remainder of the day is free to explore Wellington as you please. (B)

Tauck puts a charter plane at your service today for a flight to Blenheim on New Zealand's South Island, and a two-night stay in the heart of the Marlborough wine country.

Upon arrival, head off on a visit to the Marlborough Sounds. Besides producing great wine, this region is one of the most beautiful and picturesque areas in the country, and boasts delectable freshly caught seafood, including green-lipped mussels; sample them, along with local wines, on a luncheon cruise that celebrates New Zealand's bounty.

Following your cruise, drive to Chateau Marlborough in Blenheim where you'll enjoy dinner at your leisure this evening. Stay Two Nights: Chateau Marlborough (B/L/D)

A memorable day in the Blenheim area begins with a visit to a working private farm for a sheep shearing demonstration and sheep dog experience; morning tea at the homestead with the farmer and his family; and a walk through their extensive gardens.

Continue on to Wither Hills Winery for a wine tasting and three-course lunch with matching wines, then return to the hotel for some free time. Join us this evening for a Tauck Exclusive event: a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre – which displays an incredible collection of World War I and II aircraft and memorabilia owned by film director Sir Peter Jackson – for "Dinner with the Warbirds," featuring a tour of the museum's "Knights of the Sky" and "Dangerous Skies" exhibitions, and a three-course dinner showcasing seasonal Marlborough produce and a selection of quality Marlborough wines. (B/L/D)

Today, depart Blenheim and fly off aboard Tauck's charter to Manapouri (Te Anau) in the magnificent Fiordlands region, for two nights at an ideally located hotel. You'll have a choice this afternoon of a visit to the Glow Worm Caves or a scenic Fjordland National Park boat ride. Return to Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas for an evening spent as you please. Stay Two Nights: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (B/L/D)

Take a dramatic drive through the unparalleled scenery of New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, then set off aboard a private boat (with a naturalist onboard) for a scenic nature luncheon cruise among the sheer cliffs and glacier-hewn inlets of beautiful Milford Sound. Enjoy lunch at your hotel, then join us at Fiordland Cinema for the Fiordland World Heritage Status wilderness presentation. Mysterious, evocative, exhilarating and utterly spectacular, filmed mostly from a helicopter across extremes of season, climate and terrain, it will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Enjoy some wine and cheese before returning to your hotel for the evening. (B/L)

This morning, travel to the beautiful town of Queenstown, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with the Southern Alps as a backdrop. Have lunch at the Ayrburn Winery; wine tasting at the winery offers an immersive experience in a unique setting. Located in the historic Ayrburn estate near Queenstown, the winery blends its 160-year-old heritage with modern charm. Your accommodations at the Sofitel Queenstown exude French-inspired sophistication in the heart of the city. Stay Two Nights: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa (B/L/D)

Even if you're not all that adventurous, today's thrilling high-speed jet boat ride* through the rapids and narrow gorges of Skippers Canyon on the Shotover River – followed by a helicopter ride* – will be memorable highlights. Head back down the mountain via Skyline gondola to spend the rest of the day and evening as you wish in Queenstown. (B)

Travel via Tauck's private charter flight from Queenstown to Auckland today for a two-night stay (Club Floor rooms at the InterContinental Auckland), arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Auckland Museum featuring a Maori cultural presentation. Following dinner at your hotel, your evening is free. Stay Two Nights: InterContinental Auckland (B/L/D)

Depart from Auckland's Ferry Terminal and head to nearby Waiheke Island, a mecca of farmland, forest and beaches – and vineyards; enjoy some sightseeing, a wine tasting and a farewell lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard, and a unique whisky tasting at The Heke. Ferry back to Auckland and join us this evening for a farewell cocktail reception at your waterfront hotel. (B/L)

Tour ends: Auckland. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from InterContinental Auckland to Auckland Airport. You should allow three hours for check-in at the airport. (B)