South Pacific Vacations & Tours
The South Pacific is a world of its own with its special character and personality. Known as Downunder to many of us living in the northern hemisphere, a journey to this region can entail any combination of countries. Most visitors usually opt for a combination of Australia and New Zealand. However, it is very easy to include other wonderful destinations either going to or returning from the South Pacific.
Travel to Australia
Australia is both a continent and an island. When planning a visit, take into consideration the diverse nature of the country. There are exciting cosmopolitan cities, tropical jungles, rainforests, mountain ranges, deserts and wine-growing regions – all this in one country. Spend time in Sydney with its beautiful harbour, iconic opera house and historical Rocks district. Then move on to Melbourne, a cultural and sophisticated urban centre complete with suburban beach resorts (most of our trips to Australia include visits to both cities).
What are the top cities and places to visit in Australia?
Serene Canberra is Australia’s capital, architecturally designed as a model city. Adelaide offers not only its green parks but also the close by the fascinating animal sanctuary, Kangaroo Island and the outstanding wine region of the Barossa Valley. Perth has the ocean, pleasant parks, a sunny climate and nearby wine districts. When in Brisbane, make a point of visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Tropical Cairns is a major gateway to the amazing Great Barrier Reef and also the Daintree Rainforest. The Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast with their excellent beaches, both offer an escape from North America’s cold climate.
Darwin can be combined with a visit to the extraordinary Kakadu National Park famous for its ancient rock art and waterfalls as well as its crocodiles. Unforgettable and mysterious Ayers Rock in the Red Centre and the Olgas are easily combined with Alice Springs. In Tasmania, you can immerse yourself in historic Hobart and take in some dramatic island scenery which includes mountains and lakes.
What are the must-see attractions in Australia?
There are many other aspects to Australia. You can cruise around the Great Barrier Reef, go skiing in the Snowy Mountains, experience the Great Ocean Road with its spectacular coastline running between Melbourne and Adelaide, enjoy excellent art galleries and museums and partake in fine dining. Whatever your interests, an Australia vacation will provide it. You will certainly want to go back again once having travelled there.
Travel to New Zealand
Just over the Tasman Sea, approximately a 3-hour flight away from Australia is New Zealand, a land of natural wonder with its spectacular mountains, active volcanoes, majestic fjords, picturesque lakes, bubbling hot springs, great beaches and rugged coastline. All of these ingredients are packed into two relatively small islands which can be seen and experienced while in New Zealand.
What are the top cities to visit in New Zealand?
The subtropical North Island contrasts perfectly with the more rugged and mountainous South Island. On the North Island, Auckland makes a good introduction to New Zealand with its attractive harbour, home to thousands of sailboats. Wellington, the country’s capital, known as the country’s centre for arts and culture, is scenically located between a stunning harbour and rolling green hills. Unique Rotorua introduces you to the world of thermal activity as well as offers insights into the Maori culture. In the far north, the Bay of Islands gives you not only delightful coastal resorts but interesting history.
Turning to the South Island, Christchurch will remind you of a typical English provincial city with its church spires, green parks and tree-lined River Avon. Queenstown is a treasure in itself with its stunning scenery, diverse outdoor activities and easy access to other interesting nearby places. It is the gateway to the dramatic Fjordland which includes the spectacular Milford Sound with its lush rainforest and majestic waterfalls and Te Anau, the starting point for several dramatic walking trails. Majestic Mount Cook cannot fail to impress with its massive, snow-clad peaks that make up the Mount Cook National Park. In the far south is Dunedin, a gracious and distinctive city with grand 19th Century buildings and beautiful gardens.
What are the top parks to visit in New Zealand?
Add to all of the above, the many beautiful national parks such as the Coromandel, the Abel Tasman and Tongariro National Parks plus the rugged coastline of the west coast of the South Island with its marine animal life, and there is absolutely no doubt that a New Zealand vacation is a true scenic wonderland.
Travel to Tahiti
Definitely break your journey in one of any of the delightful, tropical islands which offer all year round great weather with guaranteed sunshine. Tahiti is the heart of Polynesian culture with its towering jagged mountain peaks, tranquil, sheltered blue lagoons and white coral sand beaches set off by turquoise waters. Take your pick from romantic Bora Bora, breathtakingly beautiful Moorea or any of the smaller, less inhabited but equally stunning islands that make up Tahiti.
About Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands and is known for its rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Consider a scenic cruise to the outer islands or just languish on one of the many wonderful beaches. The Cook Islands has a culture firmly anchored by traditional Polynesian values and is steeped in history. You will definitely find yourself attracted to the very friendly Cook Islanders.
Travelling to Samoa, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea
Samoa and Tonga are other stopover possibilities, each with its own special character and attractions which definitely include beautiful beaches. For something different, head to Papua New Guinea which remains one of the world’s last frontiers where you can take a river cruise into the hinterlands of this exotic island.
Plan to visit the South Pacific and discover a world of delights, Downunder!
Also, visit:
- For trip, ideas see the left sidebar
- Goway's Downunder Special Services
- 56 reasons to go Downunder with Goway
- General travel information for Australia, New Zealand & The South Pacific
- Air ideas to get Downunder
- South Pacific Air Passes
Classic Australia: Melbourne, Red Centre, Cairns and Sydney
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Australia’s most famous cities and natural wonders on this ideal introduction to the land Downunder. Connecting from Melbourne to Sydney, you’ll gaze upon the changing colours of Uluru, cruise the Great Barrier Reef, and go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House.
More DetailsAustralia & South Pacific
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Pacific Coast Explorer Self Drive: 7 Days
Self-drive holidays are a very unique way to travel. Begin in Sydney then head to wine country in Hunter Valley. Next is Port Stephens and Coffs Harbour before arriving in the Gold Coast.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,099
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives
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Pacific Coast Explorer Self Drive: 9 Days
Drive the Pacific Coast and get to know its many highlights travelling from Brisbane to Cairns with stops at Fraser Island and Rockhampton, the Whitsundays, Townsville and Mission Beach.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 859
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Secluded Luxury. Like a siren of the South Pacific, Aitutaki seduces you. This magical place is home to Pacific Resort Aitutaki – Cook Islands , the “World’s Leading Boutique Island Resort” (World Travel Awards) and a member of “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”.- Duration:
- 6-13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,797
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
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PADI Learn to Dive
Learn to dive with an “Open Water” course that is unmatched for experience and value. Receive two days of pool training then three days and two nights onboard a liveaboard dive vessel.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,081
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Ideas for 18 to 30 Somethings, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Papua New Guinea: A Highlands Adventure
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on a fascinating adventure into the Highlands of Papua New Guinea to get in touch with people on the fringes of the modern world. Exploring Mt. Hagen and the Wahgi Valley, you’ll encounter the ancient civilizations of the Melpa and Huli people and experience the startling wilderness of remote mountains and valleys.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,498
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Private Catamaran Cruise: Raiatea to Bora Bora
MODERATE | CRUISE: There’s no better way to sample a variety of French Polynesia’s islands than by private catamaran. This cruise takes you to three of the most beautiful, Raiatea, Taha’a, and romantic Bora Bora.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,808
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Cruises & Sailing, Private Experiences
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Private Catamaran Cruise: Raiatea, Taha'a
MODERATE | CRUISE: A wonderful experience of sailing on your own private catamaran through the turquoise waters of Tahiti. Moor overnight in different locations and enjoy the ability to swim, kayak, snorkel and also do some sightseeing.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,808
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Cruises & Sailing, Private Experiences
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Queensland Coastal Explorer
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALTY GROUP: This exclusive post-Lions Club International Convention group tour showcases the beauty of Queensland, from the tropical rainforest outside Cairns to the colorful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef to the powdery white sands of the Whitsundays. Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this world-renowned natural wonderland.- Duration:
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 8,499
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Queensland Splendour
Journey through Queensland to sample its diverse landscape and vibrant local life. Surf the beaches of the Sunshine Coast, hike the sand dunes of Fraser Island and dive into the wondrous ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,354
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Red Centre Sights & Sounds Discovery
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the highlights of Uluru/Ayers Rock, Australia’s Red Centre. Take part in unique activities, learning about the area and its rich indigenous culture from an Aboriginal perspective.- Duration:
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 695
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Romantic Samoa
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This tropical paradise is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Wake up to the sound of the ocean each morning, snorkel and interact with sea turtles or discover hidden waterfalls - Samoa has it all. Stay is a boutique resort that is located in a private secluded bay and hidden amongst the coconut palms.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,009
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sea, Sand & City - Gold Coast & Sydney
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an enchanting 13-day adventure to Australia, commencing with an exploration of the captivating Gold Coast. Journey onward to Sydney, renowned for its iconic landmarks and magnificent harbor vistas.- Duration:
- 13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,389
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
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Shipwreck Coast Explorer: Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Starting and finishing in Melbourne, enjoy a self drive tour along Victoria’s southwest coast. The Great Ocean Road offers amazing scenery, unforgettable natural features and quaint towns making it a unique vacation spot.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 839
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Signature Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest in Luxury
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Get the best of both worlds and stay in luxury accommodations on this reef and rainforest vacation. Swim, snorkel, and relax on a coral cay in the Low Isles of the Great Barrier Reef. Then discover the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman River from your treehouse resort.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,098
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Signature Melbourne
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the charms of Victoria on this regional vacation. Based in Melbourne, you’ll drive the Great Ocean Road before discovering the trendy laneway and arcade bars of the city.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,569
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Signature Sydney
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the magic of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour on this private-guided exclusive vacation. Get to know Australia’s largest city on a walking tour and go behind-the-scenes of the Opera House before you cruise the famous harbour on a private yacht.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,057
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences
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South Australian Wildlife and Wine
A South Australia vacation takes the route not travelled by most trips to Australia. Less crowded but no less satisfying, enjoy the Festival State’s world renowned wines, and marvel at the natural treasure trove that is Kangaroo Island, a haven for a wide variety of Australian and Southern Ocean wildlife.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,885
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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South Island In-Depth: Self Drive
Drive the South Island experiencing all it has to offer. Enjoy whale watching, Abel Tasman National Park and the Glacier Region as well as Queenstown and Scottish influenced Dunedin.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,129
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives
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South Kiwi Explorer
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Explore the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this group vacation. Enjoy a scenic sightseeing tour of Christchurch, visit the albatross and penguin colonies of Dunedin, explore Fiordland National Park, including a cruise on Milford Sound, and cap off the trip in the resort haven of Queenstown. Our Groups Only Specialist will be delighted to tailor your own private group vacation to New Zealand. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travelers.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,599
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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South Pacific Trio: Australia, New Zealand & Fiji
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Spend 16 days exploring Fiji's Coral Coast, Sydney, and Auckland, three of the most iconic South Pacific Destinations. Indulge in your five-star Fiji resort with complimentary activities, pristine beaches, and cultural excursions, fly to Sydney for four nights of unlimited exploration with discounted access to top attractions, and uncover the charm of Auckland, navigating its highlights with a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off tour.- Duration:
- 16 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,999
- Trip Type:
- Vacation Packages with Airfare
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South West & Wine
Discover Perth by embarking on a tour of Nambung National Park and the mystical Pinnacles Desert. Sample wine in the Margaret River Wine Region and drive through the Boranup Forest.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,088
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sparkling Sunshine Coast
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: While staying on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, enjoy a visit to Fraser Island reached by cable ferry to Cooloolan National Park with its 75 mile long beachfront. .Experience natural beauty during a guided rainforest walk and also have a freshwater swim plus Aussie BBQ lunch.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 956
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Spectacular South Australia
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALTY GROUP: This exclusive post-Lions Club International Convention group tour combines the natural wonders of Kangaroo Island and the Great Ocean Road with wine tours and city breaks along the picturesque coastline of South Australia.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,329
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Sunset Resort
The Sunset Resort is a beachfront property set on the sheltered western side of the island, 5 minutes from the airport and 8 minutes from the town of Avarua.- Duration:
- 6-13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 630
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
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Sydney Outdoors
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: A very special Sydney package which includes an exciting jet boat ride, a bicycle tour around the city, a full day to the Blue Mountains including a stop at a wildlife park and a trip to the famous Bondi Beach to enjoy learning to surf.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,299
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas