Te Anau to Dunedin Via The Catlins Small-Group Tour (One-Way)
About
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.
- Up to 15 travelers in the group
What to expect
- 1InvercargillA 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 min
- 2Curio BayStep 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 hr 30 min
- 3PapatowaiWe 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 hr
- 4Purakaunui Falls WalkTake 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 min
- 5Nugget Point LighthouseA 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 hr
- 6DunedinWe 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. Passes by without stopping
Photos
Reviews
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What’s included
- Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
- Bottled water
- Hotel Drop off in Dunedin (central locations only)
- Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
- Snacks
- Hotel pickup in Te Anau (Select locations only)
Not included
- Opportunity to purchase at own expense
- Accommodation
- Restroom on board
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
- Due to uneven surfaces & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users
- *You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Meeting & pickup
If not being collected from one of our hotel options, please meet your guide at the bus stop, by the public restrooms.
*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (94 Te Anau Terrace). 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.