contact_supportCall to start your dream trip today!
1800 669 579[+61 (0)7 3040 6697]

  • Home ⇢
  • 6 Days Parkes & Central West NSW

    • Every package is a template, a starting point. Submit a booking enquiry and tell us what you would like to add or change. Or you can outline a special trip you have in mind and we'll plan it and price it for you using member benefits. We're 100% flexible. Read about 4 ways we can benefit you...

    Owing to recent flight price increases this package is scheduled for repricing. Submit a booking enquiry to receive up-to-date pricing for your travel plan without obligation.
    Search all packages
    Booking enquiry

    Enjoy stunning scenery, try local cuisine and wine, and immerse yourself in history, culture and art on this epic 6-day road trip. We've planned the whole thing, all you need to do is grab your friends and hop on the bus!

    Hit the road and discover all the incredible things on offer in NSW's spectacular Central West region. Start your journey on the Blue Mountains' misty, winding roads, before finding yourself surrounded by rolling paddocks, lush vineyards and friendly country folk in Parkes. Make day trips to Forbes, Dubbo, Young, and more, with a range of fantastic activities included. With a comfortable touring coach and knowledgable driver, there's no doubt this trip will be relaxing and enjoyable.

    Embark on an exciting 6-day NSW adventure
    Embark on an exciting 6-day NSW adventure
    -

    YOU PAY FROM AFTER GCASH TRAVEL CREDITS

    DESTINATION
    AUSTRALIA
    THEME
    NATURAL WONDERS
    PRICE FROM
    AUD $1,989
    FLIGHTS INC.
    TOUR ONLY
    PACKAGE TYPES
    FULLY-GUIDED
    PHYSICAL LEVEL
    2/10

    View Inclusions & Itinerary | Introduction for New Members | Travel Club Free Trial

    Trip Highlights

     

    We've included a range of fantastic and immersive activities on this 6-day getaway that you're sure to love. The standout is the visit to McFeeters Motor Museum. Stroll through a vast collection of meticulously restored motor cars, ranging from veterans to custom cars, rare, common and just down right bizarre. Whether you're a car enthusiast or not, this fantastic museum visit will no doubt be enjoyable.

    Sapphire Fully-guided

    This is a fully-guided charter for your group...

    A fully-guided group charter tour is ideal for larger groups, especially 12 or more people. A tour coach and driver are included and a tour director runs the tour so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire fully-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    AUD $1,989pp twin-share [+ $1,071 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    • Nature
    • Adventure
    • Special interest
    • Sightseeing
    • Rural towns
    • Wildlife
    • Group activities

    Be delighted by these experiences:

    McFeeters Motor Museum

    Get your motors running with a visit to McFeeters Motor Museum. Over 60 exquisite vehicles, ranging from veteran to vintage through to classic and street rod machines are on display. Like fine art, the vehicles are lovingly preserved and showcased. Be sure to allow plenty of time to meander and browse and enjoy the warm hospitality of McFeeter's family.

    Cowra's Japanese Gardens

    Opened in 1979, the multi award-winning Cowra Japanese Garden is a 'must see' at any time of the year. The rocky hillside, manicured hedges, waterfalls and streams, and the two lakes provide a serene environment for a myriad of birdlife. Special features of the Garden include a Bonsho Bell, a traditional Edo Cottage, an authentic open air Tea House and a Bonsai House.

    Old Dubbo Gaol

    Old Dubbo Gaol is a state heritage listed must-see. This remarkably complete and intact gaol operated for 119 years from 1847 to 1966 and is still nestled in the main street of Dubbo.This regional gaol is representative of powerful, surprising and dark moments in Australian prison history. They house important collections such as the largest collection of Hangmans ropes in Australia, and unforgettable experiences such as the eerie silence of the dark cells and the bird's-eye view from the watchtower.

    More trip highlights:

    local_activity
    Amusu Theatre Manildra

    Visit Australia’s oldest operational picture theatre! Opened in 1936 you can still enjoy a new release movie in Art Deco surrounds. The Theatre also holds a collection of memorabilia that will evoke rural New South Wales in the mid twentieth century.

    local_activity
    Taronga Western Plains Zoo

    Experience the ultimate zoofari at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo! The Zoo is home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals including giraffes, rhinos, elephants and big cats. Whether you walk, drive your own car, or ride around the Zoo's five-kilometre circuit on hired bikes or carts, there's so much to see and do.

    local_activity
    CSIRO Parkes Observatory

    Located 20kms north of Parkes off the Newell Highway the CSIRO's Parkes observatory is home to the world famous 'Dish'. At 64 metres in diameter, it was the first fully steerable large antenna in the Southern Hemisphere. This impressive structure is still a world leading scientific instrument and is operated 24 hours a day. The discovery centre has a range of interactive displays, an excellent astronomy resource centre with souvenirs, science toys and books, and is a great place to explore.

    local_activity
    Mt Canobolas

    Mount Canobolas, an ancient volcano, stands 1395 metres above sea level. The mountain is the highest peak between the Blue Mountains and the Indian Ocean and offers stunning 360-degree view from the summit, encompassing the city of Orange, the rolling countryside and the Blue Mountains in the distance.

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

    Member Pricing

    Sapphire fully-guided package
    Sapphire Fully-guided
    This is a fully-guided charter for your group...
    AUD $1,989pp twin-share [+ $1,071 GCash credits]
    • Fully-guided group package (min. 20 people)
    • 6 days of touring and sight-seeing
    • 16 towns and other places of interest visited
    • 5 nights' top-class accommodation
    • 18 excellent excursions and activities
    • 5 cooked breakfasts, 5 dinners and 6 lunches
    • Luxury coach with professional tour guide/driver

    Pricing is based on a minimum of 20 people going on this holiday. An additional amount per person might be payable for fewer people.

    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.

    FULL RETAIL VALUE

    SAVINGS APPLIED

    -

    YOU PAY FROM*
    SAVING OFF FULL RETAIL VALUE (UP TO):

    Discover the Travel Club Advantage

    Australian Escapes has been saving members money on their holidays now for over 20 years and we can do the same for you. You can start today for FREE!

    • Group buying power

    • Free travel planning services and advice; saves you time and money

    • The experience to help you avoid common and costly travel mistakes

    • Guaranteed savings and value; put us to the test

    • Exclusive travel benefits and free member services

    • No risk free trial, cancel anytime, invest a few dollars to save potentially $'000's.

    Quick Guide | Travel Club Free Trial

    Not yet a member? Submit a booking enquiry and we'll automatically register you for a 90-day free trial account. No obligation to book a trip or to remain as a member. There are no scams and no catches. This is a genuine travel club and you'll quicky discover how professional we are.

    FFV Valid AUSTRALIAN ESCAPES FREE FLIGHTS VOUCHER (FFV) PACKAGES
    USE FREE FLIGHTS VOUCHERS TO SAVE AN EXTRA PER PERSON* (YOU PAY )

    * Limits may apply to group bookings. Details will be provided at the time of final pricing.

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final 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....

    We're on your side

    Members get the benefit of our expertise and low prices. We work for you so you don't have to try and learn how to be a travel expert overnight. You avoid costly mistakes and get much better value. READ MORE... Submit a booking enquiry to get a free 3-month, Travel Club Trial account.

    Inclusions

     

    Our aim with this trip is to give you and your group a taste of NSW's Central West highlights and provide exceptional value while keeping the dollars as low as possible. Ideally this might be a trip you could do more than once a year.

    Sapphire Fully-guided

    This is a fully-guided charter for your group...

    A fully-guided group charter tour is ideal for larger groups, especially 12 or more people. A tour coach and driver are included and a tour director runs the tour so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire fully-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    AUD $1,989pp twin-share [+ $1,071 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    "Bursting with blossoms in spring, draped in dreamy colours in autumn and perfect for pinot noir before crackling fires in winter, Central West NSW gives you reasons to visit in all seasons."

    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:

    • 5 nights accommodation in Parkes
    • 5-star touring coach with toilet, seatbelts, and a commentary driver
    • Small Arms Museum, Lithgow entry
    • Amusu Theatre entry
    • Parkes Visitor Information Centre local guide – 1 hour
    • CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility – group entry & 3D triple features/activities
    • Henry Parkes Centre
    • Henry Parkes History Museum & Antique Machinery Co entry
    • Forbes Railway Arts and Visitor Centre
    • McFeeters Motor Museum entry
    • Age of Fishes Museum entry
    • Cowra Visitors Information Centre local guide – 3 hours
    • Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre entry & self guided tour
    • Japanese Cemetery visit
    • Taronga Western Plains Zoo entry & 2 hour guided tour
    • Dundullimal Homestead entry
    • Old Dubbo Gaol entry
    • Guide - Stuart Maxwell – 3 hour town tour of Young
    • Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory visit
    • Guide - Pat Mullins - 2 hour locally guided tour of Orange
    • 5 cooked breakfasts
    • 5 dinners
    • 6 lunches

    * 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 travel 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 price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. 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

     

    Embark on an exciting 6-day guided tour of Central-West NSW. Stay in Parke, visit Dubbo, experience the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, travel the cliff drive to Katoomba and Echo Point, explore Forbes and enjoy the spectacular Cowra Japanese Gardens. Along the way you will visit Orange, Young, Canowindra, and much more, with plenty of time to relax and simply enjoy the beauty of Central NSW.

    "I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel's sake. The great affair is to move." - Robert Louis Stevenson

    Logistics Start City/Location Sydney: Your group meeting place. (Start time is flexible.)
    End City Sydney: Your group meeting place.
    Meeting & Pick-up Arrangements * If there are multiple pickups, we will advise timing in advance.
    Duration 6 days
    Departure Time 8.30 am
    Return Time 5.00 pm

    info * All charter group tour packages are flexible. Talk to us about meeting place and pickup arrangements that suit you and your group.

    Your day-to-day itinerary:

    Sapphire Fully-guided

    This is a fully-guided charter for your group...

    A fully-guided group charter tour is ideal for larger groups, especially 12 or more people. A tour coach and driver are included and a tour director runs the tour so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire fully-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    AUD $1,989pp twin-share [+ $1,071 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    860 6170 5 false 0 166
    DAY 1
    SYDNEY - BLUE MOUNTAINS - MANILDRA - PARKES (5 NIGHTS)

    Parkes is a gorgeous rural NSW's town. There's stunning natural beauty – perfect for water sports, bushwalking and birdwatching – plus colonial gold rush heritage, a world-class sculpture trail and one of Australia's most memorable music events, the Parkes Elvis Festival.

    About today:

    Marvel at the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation

    Set off on an exciting 6-day roadtrip

    We have a wonderful 6 day holiday ahead of us as we join our deluxe touring coach and head off towards Central New South Wales. Sit back and enjoy the view as we make our way into the Blue Mountains. We take the scenic cliff drive to Katoomba and Echo Point, home to The Three Sisters. The Blue Mountains are a spectacular part of Australia's heritage, with the National Park conserving some 218,000 hectares of rugged beauty, a variety of terrain, a diversity of microclimates and ecological wealth.

    We stop to enjoy the view then continue on to Lithgow where we visit the Small Arms Museum for something a little different. The museum houses one of Australia’s most comprehensive collections including Australian designed experimental weapons. We continue to Bathurst, one of Australia’s oldest inland cities. The Victorian-era streetscape is relatively intact and there are some impressive buildings.

    We then travel on to Manildra to visit the Amusu Theatre - Australia's oldest cinema. In 1923 a young man named Allan Tom realised his dream when he took to the road with a Travelling Picture Show, screening in marquees and halls in all kinds of weather, bringing entertainment to people in remote outback areas. He was one of the true pioneers of the Australian Motion Picture Industry, and his efforts were rewarded in January 1993, when he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his contribution to the entertainment industry. From here we make our way into Parkes, our main destination and base for the next 5 nights.

    Show More...
    861 6172 0 false 0 166
    DAY 2
    FORBES

    About today:

    Admire restored motor cars at McFeeters Vintage Car Museum

    Enjoy the sights of Parkes & Forbes

    After breakfast we enjoy the sights of Parkes, a town named after one of the NSW’s most famous Statesman, Henry Parkes. Our tour includes a stop at Memorial Hill Lookout for views of the town and surrounding area and a visit to Bushman’s Hill - the site of the Bushmans Gold Mine which was responsible for making the Parkes district one of the richest gold producing areas of the early colony. We then head up the Highway to the CSIRO Parkes Observatory. An icon of Australian science, the Parkes radio telescope has been in operation since 1961 and continues to be at the forefront of astronomical discovery thanks to regular upgrades. We get to see the facility up close at the astronomy and space science exhibition and a 3D movie in the theatre.

    Back in Parkes we stop at the Henry Parkes Centre that houses the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, the King's Castle Elvis Exhibit, the Parkes Motor Museum, Henry Parkes Museum (traditional history) and Antique Machinery Collection. We’ll have lunch here before we travel south to nearby Forbes, a substantial country town famous for its connections with the bushranger Ben Hall. The town has some impressive buildings and gardens associated with a large lagoon known as Lake Forbes, which bisects the town.

    On arrival we visit the Forbes Railway Arts and Tourist Centre, located at the Forbes Railway Station with time to explore. Next we visit the McFeeters Vintage Car Museum, a purpose built facility that displays a vast collection of meticulously restored motor cars. The cars range from veterans to custom cars that are rare and just downright bizarre.
    From Forbes we travel back to Parkes and the motel with time to relax before dinner.

    Show More...
    862 6173 0 false 0 166
    DAY 3
    CANOWINDRA & COWRA

    About today:

    Walk through Japanese Gardens in Cowra

    Learn about the history of nearby rural towns

    This morning we travel across to Canowindra. Canowindra is a small town, which was held up by the infamous Bushranger Ben Hall! Situated on the Lachlan River, Canowindra’s curving main street has a number of interesting old buildings dating back to the 1800’s. We’ll visit the Age of Fishes Museum home to some very rare and important fish fossils, which palaeontologists date to 360million years ago. They are a significant find linking fish to the first amphibians and we enjoy a talk by one of the local volunteers as well as viewing a video.

    From Canowindra we continue onto Cowra the town made famous by the POW Camp located here during WWII and the now famous “Cowra Breakout”. Our first stop is at the Visitor Centre where local information is available and a model of the POW camp is available for viewing. Next to the centre we can view the Rose Garden which has over 1000 roses of 170 different varieties.

    Next is a visit to the Japanese Gardens. Designed by internationally renowned landscape architect Ken Nakajima, the 5-hectare Japanese Garden follows the edo style walking garden of the Shugakin Imperial Villa in Kyoto built between 1655 and 1659. The garden itself is designed to represent the landscape of Japan and features a stream cascading in waterfalls into two large ponds. Meandering paths and wooden bridges allow visitors to explore and view the gardens at ease. The Cultural Centre displays Japanese art history and crafts and has become known as the centre of Japanese Culture in Australia.

    We enjoy lunch and the gardens, then this afternoon we continue our sightseeing around Cowra, with a visit to the Australian & Japanese War Cemeteries. See the Garrison Gates which were the original entry to the POW Camp. The pillars stand as a memorial to the Australian soldiers killed in the breakout. We also stop and visit the Military Museum as well as taking a drive along the Sakura Avenue of Cherry Trees to the POW Campsite. After a great day we head back to Parkes and the motel for dinner.

    Show More...
    863 6174 0 false 0 166
    DAY 4
    DUBBO

    About today:

    Immerse yourself in history at Old Dubbo Gaol

    Meet the friendly animals of Taronga Western Plains Zoo

    From Parkes this morning we travel north along the Newell Highway to Dubbo - home of the Taronga Western Plains Zoo where we spend the morning.

    The Zoo is home to more than 1100 animals from around the world which roam freely and can be viewed without the visual barriers of fences, bars or glass, instead using a system of dry and water-filled moats. A zookeeper will escort our coach and explain the open range layout and some of the behind-the-scenes operations of the Zoo. We then make our way to Dundullimal Homestead for a look around the property. Wealthy Squatter John Maughan built Dundullimal in the 1840’s as the head station of his 1600-acre sheep run. Maughan sold the property in 1858, and it was subsequently occupied by three prominent Dubbo families. The slab house and stone stables that remain bear testimony to the hardships and conditions of colonial life on the land.

    After lunch here we head into to town where we visit the Old Dubbo Gaol, a stark reminder of our harsh and often violent past. The gaol began life as a courthouse lockup in 1847 before being proclaimed an official gaol from 1859 to 1966. It has been fully restored and inside the huge sandstone gates we will view the original gallows, holographic displays and animatronic models providing us with a realistic and fascinating insight into a bygone era of barbaric prison life.

    Show More...
    864 6176 0 false 0 166
    DAY 5
    YOUNG

    About today:

    Cherry pick at Allambie Orchard and Cafe

    Visit the Cherry Capital of the World!

    We are off to Young this morning – known as the Cherry Capital of the World! On arrival we welcome a local guide on-board to point out the interesting sights of this historic gold rush town. We make a stop at Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory. For the sweet toothed, there is a huge range of delicate chocolates and tempting lollies as well as their well-known freshly made fudge. We have arranged lunch at the Allambie Orchard and Cafe. Here there is an opportunity to take a wander through the orchard and hear from the grower. With plenty of bargains and goodies from the day, we return to our motel with time to freshen up and relax prior to dinner.

    Show More...
    865 6177 0 false 0 166
    DAY 6
    PARKES - ORANGE - MT CANOBOLAS - SYDNEY

    About today:

    Take in the views from Mt Canobolas

    Hike up an extinct volcano before returning home

    We farewell our hosts this morning and prepare for the trip home. We stop in Orange - a substantial and sophisticated rural service centre which lies at the heart of some of New South Wales' most rich and beautiful agricultural land. Road conditions permitting, we travel up to the top of Mt Canobolas, 1395 metres above sea level, for panoramic views of the surrounding region.

    Mt Canobolas, an extinct volcano encircled by a nature reserve rich in native fauna, is the highest point between the Blue Mountains and the Indian Ocean - the view is superb.

    We enjoy a farewell lunch at The Mountain Tea House before we head for home to complete a sensational 6-day tour.

    Show More...

    FAQ's for This Package

    ≡

    Are flights included?

    Flights are not included in this package. If required, we'll happily price flights for you to suit your requirements along with transfers to and from the airport once the number of travelers is known. If you have accumulated Australian Escapes Free Flights vouchers, these can be used to reduce the overall price (limits will apply).

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

    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 Parkes for 5 nights. It will be 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 tour packages or are they extra? Is there any more to pay?

    See a list of standard inclusions on the package details page. If there are optional activities, they will be shown separately. Your travel consultant will discuss activities with you so you can decide what to include or leave out of your itinerary. A price variance might apply.

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

    All tour packages are flexible. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for an exclusive charter to suit your group.

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

    When you arrive at each destination on your trip your tour director will show you around and point out places of interest. 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.

    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".

    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.

    Top
    Close

    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.

    Top
    Close

    Search All Packages

    When you start typing your destination into the search box, you will see a list of possible matches. Click on the closest match if any. Then click the "Search" button.

    Close
    My Accommodation Short-list
    Product Date Added Potential Saving Order of Preference Action
    Order Sort
    No records
     

    Hello , You currently have 0 items in your short list. Return to package search.