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Ayers Rock:

Ayers Rock is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory of central Australia. It lies 208 miles southwest of the nearest large town, Alice Springs. The rock is one of Australia’s most recognizable natural landmarks and stands at 1,142 feet tall and is 2,381 feet above sea level.

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Cairns is a regional city in the far north of Queensland, Australia. The city was founded in 1876 and named after the then governor of Queensland. The region of Cairns ranks as the 4th most popular destination for international travelers in Australia. The city serves as a gateway point for those visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is also surrounded by rainforest, including the world’s oldest, the Daintree Rainforest, which lies just two hours north.

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This is a city in the North Island of New Zealand and is the largest and most populous area in the country. Roughly one third of New Zealand’s population resides here, dating back to the year 1350 when the Maori people founded the land which is known for being rich and fertile. Auckland is famous for its wonderful parks, stunning nature, and volcanic fields as well as rich culture, wonderful festivals and great quality of life.

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Rotorua is a city on the southern shores of the lake of the same name. Located in the heart of the North Island, 140 miles southeast of Auckland, the area is known for its geothermic activity and features impressive geysers and amazing hot mud pools that are greatly enjoyed by both domestic and international tourists.

Destination Must-Do's

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Try the wine:

Australia is well known for its wines, particularly its bold reds. It is the fourth largest wine exporter in the world, and has many extremely good varieties, such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Don’t leave Australia without bringing home some marvelous wine to share with family and friends.

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Explore the Great Barrier Reef:

Experience one of the seven wonders of the natural world when you climb aboard a high speed catamaran and set off for the Great Barrier Reef. As the world’s largest living organism, you’ll find over 2,800 individual coral reef systems which are home to amazingly diverse marine life. Their bright colors look remarkable against the turquoise waters, and the boat reveals it all. Jump in the water to snorkel and really experience the Reef in an immersive way! Stroll along the walking trails, relax on the beaches, or just watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier.

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The TranzAlpine Train:

Travel from Auckland to Greymouth on New Zealand’s South Island’s west coast. The TranzAlpine train is said to be one of the most scenic train rides in New Zealand and perhaps even the whole world. The journey runs once a day with an approximate travel time of 4 1/2 hours of sheer magnificence.

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The Franz Josef Glacier Region:

There’s lots to get into here! This region of New Zealand is on the west coast of the South Island. It’s known as glacier country and is a UNESCO World Heritage area, which means that it is a world treasure and is carefully protected and preserved for future generations. It features many fantastic natural attractions one can take part in, such as glaciers, beaches, wetlands, lakes, mountains and national parks.

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Featured Tours to Australia

See our travelers on tour, brochures that feature our australia tours, destinations in australia, new zealand.

When traveling in New Zealand, it’s the rugged natural beauty that stands out: spectacular glaciers, picturesque fiords, endless coastlines, steamy geothermal activity and so much more. Its breathtaking landscapes combined with its unique Maori culture, friendly cosmopolitan cities and fabulous food and wine comprise the two remarkable islands the “Kiwis” lovingly call home. New Zealand, a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation, also offers a veritable playground for the adventurous. The temperate climate makes it ideal for year-round New Zealand adventures.

G’day, every day, Australia! Beaches to “barbies,” koalas to wallabies, Outback to ocean…where to begin your Australia tour on this island-country-continent? Travel in Australia and you'll find unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes, no doubt. Or perhaps the sun-kissed Harbour City of Sydney, Melbourne’s art scene or Barossa Valley’s world-class wineries. Go as far back as Aboriginal life in places like Ayers Rock and Alice Springs to discover how to survive in the bush, throw boomerangs and play a didgeridoo. Whatever your fancy, Australia welcomes you.

For hundreds of years Fiji has attracted dreamers, adventurers, outdoorsmen, romantics and anyone else looking for paradise. This archipelago is made up of some 330 islands, about a third of them inhabited. There are two main islands: Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. In 1643, Abel Tasman, a Dutch explorer, was the first European to catch a glimpse of the islands. The British colonized Fiji in 1874. Even before gaining independence in 1970, it became the ultimate vacation destination, due to its beautiful surroundings and warm year-round temperatures. Fiji travel may seem far away, but it’s the perfect addition to your Australia and New Zealand adventure.

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The McGeary family started APT over 85 years ago and the family's passion is to offer unique and luxurious holidays to travellers who have a spirit of adventure and discovery.

APT have a great mix of luxury cruises and adventures in the Kimberley and Australian Outback, Tasmania and New Zealand.

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New zealand's adventure - a rousing success.

Unexpected wildlife and plant growth, and land features constantly, with breathtaking beauty, and with an air of untouched freshness. Oh, and the cycling was excitin...

Wonderful and Varied Adventure

This is an excellent trip with a great variety of activities and adventure. A train into the mountains, biking, hiking, kayaking, glaciers, ocean, rainforest, and po...

New Zealand

Guides were terrific and NZ is beautiful. The biking on t...

Really fun trip

New Zealand is a beautiful country with really fun and interesting people. But the trip leaders made this an exceptional experience. The trip was well organized and ...

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For the best travel experience anywhere across the world, most people prefer a slow relaxing pace of travelling from one place to another while slowly taking in the unique vibe and atmosphere of each city as a whole. We at Australia Pacific Vacations understand and know Australia and New Zealand and just how hard that is to find in today’s day and age which is exactly why we have got the best deals for you.

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Like most people out there, don’t you wish you could have all the fun while doing the minimal amount of work at the same time? Well, there is no reason for you to look any further as we at Australia Pacific Vacations have everything sorted out for you when it comes to travel tours in both Australia and New Zealand.

What could possibly be better than getting a good look at some of the most pristine beaches of Australia while also soaking in the best available view of all of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes? Exactly. Just get in touch with our team today itself and everything will be taken care of in a jiffy.

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"From watching the sunset over Uluru or snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, to hiking the trails of Tasmania or sailing the iconic Sydney Harbour, Australia will be your most epic trip yet."

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Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Take a cruise on the Sydney Harbour for a first-row encounter with two of Australia's most iconic landmarks. Float under the majestic Harbour Bridge and marvel at the dynamic architecture of the Opera House. The best of the city swooped up in a gentle sail.

View spectacular outback sunsets at Uluru

With immense cultural significance and astonishing natural beauty, the sandstone monolith of Uluru is a highlight of any Australia vacation. Climb onto the back of a camel and navigate a portion of the rock's 10-kilometer circumference, before toasting the striking sunset with a glass of bubbles.

Discover Melbourne's eclectic street art

Australia's culture capital is a maze of narrow wine bars, Asian food markets and boutique-lined alleyways. Amidst it all, uncover colorful murals, brazen political statements and the work of acclaimed international artists. From AC/DC Lane to Centre Place, Melbourne will gift you a banquet of street art to appreciate.

Discover the secrets of ancient Aboriginal culture

Hear the Dreamtime stories of Australia's original landowners and begin to understand their 50,000-year connection with the land down under. Known as the world's oldest living civilization, the culture of the Aboriginal people whispers secrets of a time most can scarcely comprehend. Discover their rich heritage in the northern city of Darwin.

Travel to the Penguin Parade on the Phillip Island

It's no secret that Australians love to surf, but when a flapping penguin waddles out of the ocean, even locals squeal with joy. Venture to the southern coastline of Victoria to watch this nightly spectacle, as the beloved birds return from a busy day of fishing.

Our top 5 things to do in Australia

Take a trip to Australia with Trafalgar and we'll reveal the best these sunburnt lands have to offer. From the sparkling Sydney Harbour to the toddling penguin parade of Victoria, these are just some of the remarkable moments that re waiting for you.

Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney

Dive into a world of Maritime archaeology, migration and marine creatures at Sydney's Australian National Maritime Museum. With a 3D cinema, a prime location of Darling Harbour and numerous rotating exhibitions, this museum is one of the most interesting marine-themed things to do in Australia.

ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), Melbourne

The moving image unfurls in its many forms at Melbourne's ACMI museum. Peel back layers of digital culture with a highlight reel featuring the country's infatuation with film, TV and videogames. Spend an entire day on Flinders Street to uncover many of the city's best museums.

Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney

Take a journey into Australia's artistic culture from English settlement to the present day in the gallery often proclaimed the most important in the country. Found in a grand gothic building featuring eight sunlit halls, a day at the Art Gallery of New South Wales will connect you deeply to this part of the world.

Best museums in Australia

With a population of just 25 million and a formed history dating back just 120-years, it's easy to be surprised by the depth of culture found in Australia. With Trafalgar, you'll peel back the layers of this country by visiting these museums and many more.

A yeast-based spread that makes many travelers squirm, trying Vegemite is a must when you visit Australia. Though locals like to experiment with the ways they use this vitamin-rich spread, consume it on a piece of toasted bread atop plenty of butter for the most typical Vegemite experience.

An irresistible chocolate biscuit that is part of Australia's cultural fabric; eat one Tim Tam and you are likely to finish the entire packet. Available at any convenience store or supermarket around the country, pick up many trays to take home and share with friends.

Australian sporting events are scarcely complete until you consume a meat pie. A baked pastry dish available in countless modern variations, the traditional meat pie is filled with minced gravy and slathered in tomato sauce.

Best food in Australia

Though Australian food is typically recipes adopted from the rest of the globe, there are a few iconic staples not to miss. From the art of spreading Vegemite to the traditions of the meat pie, our Australia trips will guide you through the very best this country has to offer.

What to pack for Australia

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Tim Tams aren't easy to locate beyond the skirts of Australia. Pack an empty suitcase so you can return home with supplies and sweet souvenirs for family and friends.

Australian currency

There's no leniency in Australia when it comes to paying in foreign currencies. Pack Australian dollars in cash to avoid the fees of teller machines and currency convertors.

Australia is known for giant spiders and snapping crocodiles. But it's more likely to be tiny flying insects that get in your way. Pack bug spray to keep mosquitos at arm's length.

Goggles and a snorkel

Home to the world's most highly regarded reef, packing goggles and a snorkel will mean you can explore Australia's underwater world until your heart is content.

Sun protection

Trips to Australia typically involve a lot of time in the sunshine. Pack a wide brim hat and sunscreen to stay protected from the country's notoriously harsh rays.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

From world-class wine to sparkling beaches and ancient rainforest walks, the New South Wales Legendary Pacific Coast is a drive to be savoured.

By Alissa Jenkins

Along this spectacular 1,000-kilometre (621-mile) drive from  Sydney  to  Brisbane , explore the famed wineries of the  Hunter Valley , the vast sand dunes of  Port Stephens  and the sparkling beaches of  Byron Bay , with memorable wildlife encounters in between.

What to expect

  • Swim with dolphins in Port Stephens
  • Taste stunning wines in the Hunter Valley
  • Skydive over Byron Bay at sunrise
  • Time: 9 days
  • Distance: 1,000 kilometres (621 miles)
  • Transport: car
  • Nearest major city: Sydney
  • Price: $$$$

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

Day 1: Sydney to Newcastle

Bells at Killcare, Killcare Heights, NSW © Bells at Killcare

Bells at Killcare, Killcare Heights, New South Wales © Bells at Killcare

After departing Sydney through the leafy northern suburbs, take the scenic route to the Central Coast via Umina for an indulgent lunch at  Bells at Killcare . A five-star boutique hotel set in beautiful manicured gardens, Bells has an award-winning restaurant serving dishes that showcase local produce and wine, much of which is harvested straight from the estate. Continue north for 30 minutes to Bateau Bay , where you’ll find the popular  Coast Walking Track  through  Wyrrabalong National Park . It's a leisurely six-kilometre (3.7-mile) return walk across clifftops, with native wildflowers and ocean views. Keep a look out for migrating whales between May and August. Then drive the last leg to Newcastle , Australia's second oldest city. Refresh with a swim at  Newcastle Merewether Ocean Baths . This city landmark opened in 1935 and is the largest ocean pool complex in the Southern Hemisphere. Stay close to the action at the nautical-inspired  Novotel Newcastle Beach .

Day 2: Newcastle to Pokolbin

The Convent, Hunter Valley, NSW © The Convent

The Convent, Hunter Valley, New South Wales © The Convent

Start the day by indulging in  Newcastle  café culture in the up-and-coming East End. Try  One Penny Black , where rustic decor meets local produce and locally roasted coffee.  Bolton Street Pantry  is another popular hangout for seasonal dishes, fresh farm produce and great coffee. For something sweet, don’t go past  Doughheads  to pick up some of the most extravagant handcrafted doughnuts around. After a swim at the city's famous  Nobbys Beach , venture an hour inland to the premier wine region in New South Wales , the  Hunter Valley . Renowned for semillon and shiraz, the Hunter has more than 120 wineries, including household names  McGuigan  and  Tyrrell's . There’s also a new wave of impressive organic and biodynamic wineries to visit, such as  Harkham Wines  and  Krinklewood . Check in to  The Convent  for the night. It's a gorgeously restored historic building with 17 elegant guest rooms. Just down the road is  Circa 1876  restaurant, with an unparalleled wine list and artfully plated dishes. Alternatively, invest in some rejuvenation at The Golden Door ; visit the day spa or stay for a wellness retreat.

Day 3: Pokolbin to Port Stephens

Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, Port Stephens, NSW © Jason Busch Photography, Destination Port Stephens

Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, Port Stephens, New South Wales © Jason Busch Photography, Destination Port Stephens

Splash out with a sunrise  hot air balloon ride  over the Hunter Valley's rolling vineyards before farewelling wine country for the sandy beaches of  Port Stephens . Drive 100 kilometres (62 miles) east to Nelson Head Lighthouse, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views over the bay. You can have brunch at the  Inner Light Tea Rooms . Port Stephens is Australia’s dolphin watching capital, so join a morning  cruising ,  swimming  or  sea kayaking  tour. In the afternoon, explore the vast sand dunes of  Stockton Beach  in the nearby  Worimi Conservation Lands . There were so many shipwrecks here during the 19th century that a number of tin sheds (collectively now known as Tin City) were built to hold provisions for sailors. See what remains of them plus much more with a high-energy tour of the dunes, on  sand board ,  quad bike  or  4WD . Finish the day with a late afternoon swim or snorkel at one of the 26 sandy beaches in the area. Stay at one of the peninsula’s many upscale oceanfront resorts, such as  The Anchorage  or  Amarna .

Day 4: Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour

Koala Hospital, Port Macquarie, NSW © Destination NSW

Koala Hospital, Port Macquarie, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Kick start the day with an invigorating two-hour walk to  Tomaree Head Summit , which rises 160 metres (525 feet) above the entrance to Port Stephens. From the top you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the coastline, out to Boondelbah and Broughton islands. Next, hop in the car and follow the coast north for about 2.5 hours to  Port Macquarie , where you can refuel and refresh at one of its white sandy beaches. Alternatively, drop into the  Koala Hospital , the first of its kind in the world, where you can walk among the koalas in care. Or stop by the award-winning  Billabong Zoo , where you can get close to Australian and exotic animals. Continue another 160 kilometres (100 miles) north to the holiday haven of Coffs Harbour, where no trip is complete without a photo at the  Big Banana , a symbol of the region’s rich tropical fruit industry. The family-friendly activities continue at the  Butterfly House , where visitors can walk around an indoor tropical habitat, home to 300 Australian butterflies. Then retire to  BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort  for the night.

Day 5: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay

Rainforest walk at Crystalbrook Byron in Byron Bay © Crystalbrook Byron

Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Crystalbrook Byron

Spend the morning exploring the splendours of the  Solitary Islands Marine Park , just off the Coffs Harbour coast. The third largest marine protected area in New South Wales, it spans 71,000 hectares (274 square miles) and attracts divers and snorkellers alike thanks to its diverse marine life, from coral and colourful fish to turtles and dolphins. The islands themselves are closed to the public (except for select weekends each year when helicopters can land), but you can still experience the islands' fish-filled waters on a snorkel tour . 

Detour 40 minutes inland to the leafy hippie village of  Bellingen  for lunch. If it’s Saturday, make a beeline for the  Bellingen Growers Market  and sample lots of organic local fare in one place. Otherwise,  5 Church Street  is a local favourite, famed for its seasonal menu and live music performances. Afterwards, buckle up for a scenic 3.5-hour drive north to the bohemian beach paradise of  Byron Bay . Check in to  Crystalbrook Byron , which captures the region’s laid-back luxury with spacious suites set among 45 acres (18 hectares) of subtropical rainforest with direct access to  Tallow Beach .

Day 6: Byron Bay

The Farm, Byron Bay, NSW © James Horan, Destination NSW

The Farm, Byron Bay, New South Wales © James Horan, Destination NSW

Start the day with one of the most  stunning skydive experiences  in Australia: a jump from 14,000 feet above the Byron Bay coastline. Then enjoy a post-skydive breakfast. There's a host of impressive cafes to choose from, many of which tap into Byron's abundance of organic, local ingredients.  Folk  is a whimsical café with hipster appeal and a mostly vegetarian menu.  The Farm Byron Bay  is all things Byron: a 32-hectare (79-acre) sustainable farming property with a thriving restaurant, patisserie and flower shed.

Spend the afternoon exploring the boutiques and eateries around nearby  Bangalow  in the Byron Hinterland. If you have time to spare, explore one (or more) of five ancient Gondwana rainforests in the hinterland before returning to town for a sunset swim at popular Clarkes Beach. 

Day 7: Byron Bay to the Gold Coast Hinterland

Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, NSW © James Horan, Destination NSW

Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, New South Wales © James Horan, Destination NSW

At the easternmost point of mainland Australia, hike the  Cape Byron Walking Track  (two hours) and see the first rays of light turn the Byron Bay Lighthouse pink. Watch out for migrating whales between May and November. Then make like the locals and surf (or learn to surf) the trademark waves along Byron’s coastline. Classes range from 2.5-hour private lessons with  Soul Surf School  to multi-day workshops with  Byron Bay Surf School , among many other local operators. Salty and sun-kissed, hit the road again for the 90-minute drive north over the  Queensland  border and into the lush  Gold Coast  hinterland, a green expanse of bushwalks, lookouts and mountain retreats. Spend the night at  Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat  to restore body and mind with indulgent spa treatments, movement classes and an organic menu designed to improve stomach, digestive and liver health.

Day 8: Gold Coast

Wet'n'Wild, Gold Coast, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Wet'n'Wild, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Spend the morning hiking a portion of the breathtaking  Gold Coast Hinterland Walk , which stretches 54 kilometres (34 miles) in its entirety. Afterwards, trade bird song for buzzing beaches as you drive into the beating heart of the Gold Coast , Surfers Paradise . Here you’ll find the region’s famous theme park quartet —  Wet'n'Wild ,  Sea World , Movie World and Dreamworld . Take your pick and enjoy a day of thrills, spills, amusement rides and shows. Afterwards, lively Cavill Avenue awaits, with its shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. Stay in one of the beachside high-rises that define the Gold Coast landscape, such as the  Hilton Surfers Paradise Residence , with open-plan apartments that range from one to four bedroom designs, including floor-to-ceiling windows for taking in the glittering views. But before you retire to bed, indulge in one more thrill on a nighttime SkyPoint Climb , from which you can watch the city lights sparkle from the highest vantage point on the Gold Coast.

Day 9: Gold Coast to Brisbane

Moreton Island, Brisbane, QLD © Kenny Smith, Tourism and Events Queensland

Moreton Island, Brisbane, Queensland © Kenny Smith, Tourism and Events Queensland

Make the most of some of the calmer waters around Surfers Paradise with a morning  stand-up paddleboard lesson . Depart the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast for Queensland ’s more relaxed yet sophisticated capital city,  Brisbane . An easy 100-kilometre (62-mile) drive north, the city offers a wealth of activities to celebrate the end of your road trip. Make a detour out to  Moreton Island , climb the  Story Bridge  for jaw-dropping views, or see an outdoor performance at  Riverstage . The city is yours to explore.

From here, your journey can continue up the coast to the Great Barrier Reef 's gateway, Cairns , or to another of Australia's capital cities. 

Explore more nearby

A man and woman kayaking with Riverlife along Brisbane River beneath Story Bridge with Howard Smith Wharves in the background in Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

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Pacific Tours & Trips

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Melissa Pacific travel expert at TourRadar

Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

Galápagos multisport, galapagos discovery, galapagos experience, 10 days galapagos island hopping in santa cruz and isabela, honolulu hawaii experience 4d/3n, affordable galapagos 8 days tour, 8 days island hopping in galapagos islands for gay travelers, magical galapagos (5 days), hawaii with oahu & maui (classic, base, 7 days, intra tour air honolulu to kahului).

“I would do it again in a heartbeat!” Matilda Julia Elisabeth Heland, traveled in October 2022

Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

  • Christmas & New Year
  • Snorkel at Concha de Perla and Tijeretas
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
  • Meet your group and guide in Quito
“I can't wait to go on my next G adventure vacation.” Jesse Young, traveled in June 2022

Galápagos Multisport

  • Visit Tortoise Breeding Centre
  • See giant tortoises in Santa Cruz
  • Hike Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela
“lovely tour - very good itinerary and comfortable pace.” Xiaofeng Qin, traveled in March 2023

Galapagos Discovery

  • Spectacular animals and plants
  • Snorkel with turtles and sharks
  • Meet the Giant Tortoise of Galapagos
“If you get to experience a trip with him you are very lucky traveler.” Scott Bauer, traveled in November 2021

Galapagos Experience

  • Sightseeing
  • Hike to Sierra Negra Volcano's crater
  • Snorkel with sea turtles at Tijeretas
“The experience of viewing wildlife and exploring was amazing. I highly recommend this company.” Roberta JacyshynRose, traveled in April 2023

10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping in Santa Cruz and Isabela

  • Island Hopping
  • Discover marine life at Tintoreras Islet
  • Hike the vast crater of Sierra Negra Volcano
  • Kayak around the stunning Tortuga Bay
“Bamba Travel was the only tour operator which responded and agreed to help me plan my tour in Hawaii.” Rooma Ramsaran, traveled in April 2023

Honolulu Hawaii Experience 4D/3N

  • Taste the famous Dole Whip at Dole Plantation
  • Snorkel in crystal-clear waters with fish
  • Explore Hawaii's iconic landmarks in a day
“We had the best lodging with breathtaking views at every stop! The tour guides were also first class.” Amelia Davies, traveled in November 2021

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

  • Kayak and snorkel at Darwin Bay
  • Snorkel with marine life at Kicker Rock
  • Hike Sierra Negra Volcano or tour Wetlands

8 Days Island Hopping in Galapagos Islands for Gay Travelers

  • Snorkel with sea lions at La Lobería
  • Discover unique wildlife on a Galápagos hike
  • Meet giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island
“super super super super” Gudrun Hendrich, traveled in January 2024

Magical Galapagos (5 Days)

  • Hike to Tortuga Bay, spot wildlife on the way
  • Boat trip to an uninhabited island for hiking
  • Explore lava tunnels and natural habitats

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, Base, 7 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

  • Choose between Haleakala sunrise or Lana'i snorkeling
  • Enjoy a Dine-Around Evening in Maui
  • Get a traditional lei greeting in Honolulu

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