Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
Venture into the rugged beauty of the Catlins on this full-day, one- way small group tour from Te Anau to Dunedin. Delight in the dramatic seascapes, ancient forests, and rare wildlife as you explore one of New Zealand’s untouched regions. Enjoy guided storytelling, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace throughout the journey. Key highlights include the fossilized forest at Curio Bay, a whimsical lunch stop at the Lost Gypsy Caravan, and breathtaking views at Nugget Point Lighthouse. With a maximum of 15 guests, this tour offers an intimate experience in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
- Small group experience with a maximum of 15 guests
- Guided exploration of Curio Bay, Purakaunui Falls, and Nugget Point
- Lunch stop at Papatowai with a visit to the Lost Gypsy Caravan
- Includes water, snacks, and drop-off at your accommodation in Dunedin
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point. You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there.
*Pick-ups can begin up to 15 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 10 minute prior to your specific pickup time.
*Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance.
*Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. We are unable to wait for late guests.
If not being collected from one of our hotel options, please meet your guide at the bus stop, by the public restrooms.
Drop off to central locations available
Itinerary
-
1Invercargill
A brief stop in Invercargill offers a chance to stretch your legs or join/disembark the tour. Guests from the city can begin or end their journey here at approximately 9:00 AM.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Curio Bay
Step onto the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at Curio Bay (visible at low tide). Keep watch for yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins that frequent the shoreline. ***Alternative: If tides allow, we may visit the stunning Cathedral Caves—towering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee applies).
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Papatowai
We stop in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch and a chance to visit the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a whimsical gallery of kinetic art, curiosities, and handmade wonders that never fail to surprise.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4Purakaunui Falls Walk
Take a short, easy walk through lush native forest to reach one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls—Purakaunui Falls. Its tiered cascade makes for a peaceful and photogenic stop.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Nugget Point Lighthouse
A gentle coastal walk leads us to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, where panoramic views and dramatic sea stacks await. Spot fur seals, seabirds, and the raw power of the Southern Ocean from this spectacular lookout.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
Dunedin (Pass by)
We conclude our journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central accommodation. Known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant student life, and stunning architecture, Dunedin is a great place to end your southern adventure—or begin the next one.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
- Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
