Exploring Polynesian Cultures: Easter Island Featured in Ker and Downey Tour Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey that spans thousands of miles, immersing travelers in the rich cultures of Polynesia, New Zealand, and the Australian outback. This once-in-a-lifetime tour, titled "Australian Outback Solar Eclipse" by Elevate Destinations, is part of Traveler's 50 Tours of a Lifetime for 2012.
The tour gets underway in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Amaroo Tented Camp in the highlands of the northeastern coast of Queensland. Here, wildlife enthusiasts can indulge in crocodile watching, while culture vultures will appreciate visits to Aboriginal rock art galleries.
The highlight of the tour is the longest total solar eclipse until 2016, which will occur in the outback of Australia. A local astronomer will be consulted ahead of the event to ensure a memorable and educational experience.
The journey continues to the Polynesian islands, with stops in Easter Island, famous for its 800-some moai carved by the island's Polynesian colonizers, and Hiva Oa, where tiki statues can be found at Te Iipona.
New Zealand's North Island is another destination on this journey, offering a hike in the world's largest kauri forest, associated with Kupe, the island's legendary Maori discoverer. The tour by Access Trips focuses on developing a variety of skills in a foreign locale, including mountain-biking, glacier-hiking, white-water-rafting, sea-kayaking, and wine-tasting.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the New Zealand tour by Access Trips also offers a 12-day tour called "New Zealand-Adventure Multi-Sport Tour" for $4,384.
The tour lasts for 7 days and costs $5,500. For the best value and authentic experience, working with a travel specialist who customizes the itinerary to your interests is highly recommended, especially for combining these diverse destinations into a single trip.
In addition to the above-mentioned tour, Polynesian islands and New Zealand offer a range of cultural and adventure tours. For instance, the Classic Cook Islands tour focuses on cultural experiences such as local markets, arts, and crafts, along with natural immersion like snorkeling in pristine reefs. Customized itineraries are also available that include indigenous guides, local surfing lessons, and authentic dining experiences, covering multiple Pacific destinations.
In New Zealand, popular guided tours include half-day excursions like the Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour, featuring nature walks and beach visits, priced at around $121 per adult. Cultural immersion is offered through experiences like the All Blacks Experience, providing insight into Māori culture for about $41 per adult. Full-day tours such as the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, combining adventure with the magic of film locations, cost around $164-$205 per adult.
For those seeking a more comprehensive travel experience that combines cultural insights, adventure sports, and interaction with locals across these regions, many providers offer tailored tours. These tours are designed to cater to diverse interests and preferences, making them an ideal choice for travelers seeking a unique and memorable adventure.
- The tour, titled "Australian Outback Solar Eclipse" by Elevate Destinations, offers an adventure-travel expedition that includes wildlife viewing and cultural immersion, starting in Sydney, Australia, and moving to Amaroo Tented Camp in Queensland.
- In the Polynesian islands, the tour visits Easter Island, renowned for its moai statues, and Hiva Oa, known for its tiki statues, before reaching New Zealand's North Island.
- The Access Trips tour in New Zealand brings a blend of lifestyle experiences, such as mountain-biking, glacier-hiking, and wine-tasting, with the opportunity to learn about sustainability through various activities.
- For those preferring a more relaxed adventure tour, Access Trips offers a 12-day "New Zealand-Adventure Multi-Sport Tour" priced at $4,384, or a customized tour that encompasses multiple Pacific destinations, including cultural experiences, indigenous guides, and local dining.
