Ultimate South Pacific with the Legendary Ghan Train
Overview
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Itinerary
G’day – Welcome To Melbourne! Your hotel room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule flights to arrive by 3pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (Dinner)
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Toasts of the Town Today’s sightseeing tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful Fitzroy Gardens, then drive past the lush Botanic Gardens. You’ll discover the city’s differing...
Cosmopolitan Cool Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s passionate food and wine scene or walk along Chapel and Brunswick Streets, famous for great shopping. (Br...
On the Waterfront Fly to Hobart, Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian devil. As the second oldest of Australia’s state capitals, Hobart has a wild convict past and a rich history still evident in its beautifully restored Georgian buildings and colonial cottages. Din...
Devilish Fun Travel to the remote and rugged Tasman Peninsula. Make stops at the scenic blowhole, Devil’s Kitchen, and Tasman Arch coastal formations. Visit Port Arthur Historic Site, which began housing convicts in the 1830’s. Then visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. R...
Sweet Adelaide Today, fly via Melbourne to South Australia’s capital city. Adelaide is home to world-class art, live music, major festivals, must-try restaurants, and sits at the gateway to amazing wineries. Upon arrival, take a brief orientation tour along the wide,...
Australia’s Galapagos Early this morning, depart Adelaide and travel by motorcoach and ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders Chase National Park, a sanctuary for native Australian animals, ...
All Aboard Mid-day departure on the [LF] Ghan train for an overnight journey and unique perspective of the Outback. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITE NORTHWARD BOUND The Ghan is an Australian legend and the ultimate journey through the heart of Australia....
Into the Outback This morning you are invited to step off the train in the outback town of Marla. There’s time to stretch your legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback. Take a moment to enjoy the stillness and sip on a steaming mug of coffee and sn...
Rock Stars Today, travel through the heart of the Outback. Keep a lookout for red kangaroos, dingoes, camels, and feral horses, known as “Brumbies.” Visit the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological spectacle of some 36 brilliant domes. Tonight, [LF] dinner i...
Sunrise and Wheels Up For an unforgettable experience, you may choose to rise early for an optional camel ride to watch the sunrise at Uluru. Later, travel to Alice Springs for your flight to Darwin. (Breakfast)
NOTE: Due to this remote location and limited fl...
Remembrance & Resilience Enjoy an orientation tour of the capital of the Northern Territory. See the elegant colonial architecture of the city’s historic buildings that survived Cyclone Tracey in 1974. Visit the splendid Botanic Gardens, beautiful East Point and s...
Picturing History Journey to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to exceptional natural beauty and a unique biodome. Take a scenic cruise and then explore ancient Aboriginal rock petroglyphs at No...
Aussie Adventures Today, fly to Cairns, “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.” Check-in to your Cairns hotel for a 3-night stay. Cairns is known for its mild winters, great nightlife, and plenty of fun things to see and do. Consider exploring the Cairns Night Markets, ...
Below the Surface Prepare for the experience of a lifetime when you board a catamaran and cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore this underwater world that is a brilliant kaleidoscope of coral and sea life. Ret...
Ticket to Paradise A full day at leisure in this tropical paradise. (Breakfast) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE with an optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. You may also wish to take a 4 wheel-drive excursion into the Daintree Rainforest, stroll C...
Koalas, Crocs & Roos, Oh My! This morning, enjoy a special visit to [LF] Koala Gardens. Afterward, fly to Sydney, the largest city in Australia. Sydney is home to first-class restaurants, grand shopping arcades, and top tourist attractions such as the Sydney Oper...
Spectacular Sydney Explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Visit the Sydney Opera House and travel to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in the city’s botanic gardens for a great photo opportunity and sweeping views of the harbor and Harbour Bridge. Next, visit world-fa...
Sights & Bites Enjoy a full day at leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow travel companions for dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)
ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Sydney with an optional excursion to Hunter Valley, one of Aus...
New Zealand Bound Fly across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand and the very English town of Christchurch. Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch has many beautiful parks and gardens. You’re sure to enjoy the possibilities in this cosmopolitan city of theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping, and fantastic festivals (Breakfast)
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Peak Perfection After an orientation tour of Christchurch, travel south to magnificent Mount Cook National Park, named after New Zealand’s highest peak. Weather permitting, you may wish to join a stargazing program this evening. The Mount Cook region offers some of the darkest skies in the world – perfect for viewing the southern night sky. (Breakfast,Dinner)
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Alpine Adventures Start the day with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for unique insight into the history and culture of this region. Then, time to explore on your own before continuing to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Tonight, why...
Fjords, Forests & Falls Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling,...
Vineyards & Views A full day at leisure for your own discoveries. (Breakfast,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE This evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake W...
Earthly Wonders Fly north to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity as well as being the heart of the Māori culture. The city has a mass of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind. Enjoy a [LF] Hangi dinner t...
Counting Sheep & Kiwis This morning, enjoy a special visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Then, visit the Agrodome to learn more about one of the country’s major industries – sheep! Continue to Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. The remainder of the d...
The High Life Depart Rotorua and cross over the Mamakue ranges to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Then, travel through the green pastoral region of Waikato to Auckland. This evening, enjoy a [LF] farewell dinner atop the Sky Tower. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FA...
Until We Meet Again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Auckland and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (Breakfast)
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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
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While Globus vacations get you up close and personal to the world's must-see sights and unforgettable experiences, we also know the value of spending time on your own to explore as you please. After all, travel is meant to be filled with memorable moments of your own with serendipitous surprises that can’t be planned or scheduled. We build free time into every itinerary so you can leisurely explore the beckoning bookstore, tempting café table, or whimsical window shopping that's schedule free. Don’t wait a lifetime for that once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s waiting just around the corner!
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Maybe you’re an art lover, a foodie, or a history buff. Perhaps you’re moved by music, art, cuisine, or theater. Or maybe making tracks in the great outdoors is more your speed. We offer a wide array of optional excursions and activities—tailored to a variety of fitness levels and interests—so you can customize your adventure with your own personal passions and preferences. Each Globus excursion and activity has been personally tested by us and handpicked to allow you to really get to know each destination. You never have to choose between included and optional excursions, since optional activities fit seamlessly with your vacation schedule!
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Accommodation
The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins
Situated in the heart of downtown Melbourne, The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins is ideally located for exploring the city. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Melbourne
Australia
630 Little Collins Street
The Old Woolstore Hotel
The hotel is centrally located within a stone's throw of the city center and just a block away from Hobart's waterfront. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas. Rooms are apartment style with a separate bedroom, sitting room, and kitchen. Amenities include iron/ironing board, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer and bath amenities, air conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, DVD player, full kitchen, and washing machine and dryer.
Hobart
Australia
1 Macquarie Street
Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
Style and function are themes of the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel. As the Majestic's flagship, built in 2004, this award-winning hotel boasts simplicity, efficiency, and an eco-centric design. And as it sits just off of the lively Rundle Street, the convenience of bars, restaurants, shopping and museums is unparalleled. After a busy day of sightseeing and on-the-go activities, guests are welcomed back to comfortable accommodations and locally fresh cuisine in the hotel's restaurant - not to mention a great selection of wine! Follow it up with a view of the city from a relaxing garden roof-top, for which the hotel is aptly named.
Adelaide
Australia
55 Frome Street
The Ghan Train - Alice Springs to Darwin
The Ghan is an Australian legend and the ultimate journey through the heart of Australia. It takes its name from the pioneering Afghan cameleers who blazed a permanent trail into the "Red Center of Australia" 150 years ago. Experience this fascinating train journey in the comfort of Gold Service, featuring private overnight sleeper cabins, a separate restaurant car, and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge, the perfect place to gather with friends to enjoy a drink as you marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes. Twin cabins feature upper and lower berths, washbasin, toilet, and shower. Single cabins feature a single berth and washbasin with shared toilet and shower facilities.
Australia
Overnight Train
Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters
The modern Crowne Plaza Alice Springs is located at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges, in Australia's red center. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, and in-room dining.
Alice Springs
Australia
93 Barrett Drive
Desert Gardens Hotel
Centrally located to all resort facilities, the hotel offers a range of accommodation, outdoor pool, coin-operated self-service laundry, and the popular Bunya bar. It's only a short stroll to the Resorts' numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia's best sunset, with the spectacular play of colors across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert.
Uluru
Australia
Yulara Drive
Hilton Darwin
Overlooking Darwin Harbour, Hilton Darwin offers fabulous Esplanade views and an ideal location in the heart of the city. The impressive, marble-floored lobby, surrounded by warm colors and Aboriginal artwork, immediately welcomes you with a touch of authentic Australian style. The attentive hotel staff always make for a great stay. Enjoy the sunshine at the 10th floor outdoor swimming pool, or sip drinks at the stylish bar before savoring a delicious meal in their restaurant, which features an innovative menu of local specialties, including kangaroo, crocodile and barramundi. Laundry is available through the hotel for a fee.
Darwin
Australia
32 Mitchell Street
Pullman Cairns International
Pullman Cairns International is an upscale hotel exuding the architectural grandeur of the city's rich colonial past. Overlooking Cairns Harbour and the lush mountain hinterland, this 321-room hotel is perfectly positioned in the CBD to take advantage of all the city has to offer. After a great day of sightseeing, dine in Coco's Restaurant, grab a drink at the Lobby Bar, or pamper yourself at Vie Spa. Laundry is available through the hotel for a fee.
Cairns
Australia
17 Abbott St
Sydney Harbour Marriott
Ideally placed in Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbour Marriott welcomes guests with elegant rooms, luxury amenities, and an award-winning commitment to outstanding service. Take advantage of the fitness center, indoor pool and on-site dining.
Sydney
Australia
30 Pitt Street
Distinction Hotel Christchurch
Ideally positioned in the heart of Christchurch, the Distinction Hotel offers an urban escape that combines sophisticated smarts with familiar warmth. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar, guest laundry, gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Christchurch
New Zealand
14 Cathedral Square
The Hermitage
A haven for adventurous travelers for more than a century, the world renowned Hermitage Hotel in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a complete year-round alpine retreat. The hotel features self-service coin-operated laundry, outdoor tennis court, and a selection of on-site bars and restaurants.
Mount Cook
New Zealand
Mount Cook National Park
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Within a tranquil, garden setting, the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront blends superior facilities and comfort with friendly, personal service and offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountain peaks. The resort is a short stroll from the town center, and minutes from Queenstown's key tourist attractions and adventure activities. After a great day of sightseeing, relax at the Impressions Cocktail Bar and Impressions Restaurant with views over the lake and mountains or take a dip in the two spa pools. Wireless broadband internet access is available in all public areas (fee may apply). The hotel also features coin-operated, self-service laundry.
Queenstown
New Zealand
Corner Frankton Rd & Adelaide St
Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Situated adjacent to the Whakarewarewa Forest, Distinction Hotel Rotorua is located minutes away from the city center of Rotorua. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool and spa, underground private grotto spas, on-site restaurant and bar, laundry facilities and dry cleaning, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Rotorua
New Zealand
390 Fenton St. PO Box 983
SKYCITY Hotel
This spacious hotel allows you to relax in style while enjoying more than 20 restaurants, cafes and bars, a theatre, free live entertainment on selected nights and the iconic Sky Tower - all right on your doorstep! Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in public areas. Additional amenities include a casino, spa services, and a fitness facility. This is a smoke-free property.
Auckland
New Zealand
Corner Victoria & Federal St.
Transportation & Flights
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