Te Anau to Dunedin via Catlins Small-Group Tour (One-Way)
ID: GYG1062956-1633338
Category:
Country: New Zealand
Duration:
11:00 hours
Description
Discover the rugged beauty of the Catlins on a full-day tour from Te Anau to Dunedin. Explore the Catlins, see the Purakaunui Falls, and visit the Lost Gypsy Caravan.
Begin your adventure with pickups from central Te Anau accommodation and head southeast toward the remote beauty of the Catlins. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you leave Fiordland and enter the Southland countryside.
Make a brief stop in Invercargill 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.
Step onto the fossilized 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. If tides allow, visit the stunning Cathedral Caves—towering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee applies).
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.
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.
A gentle coastal walk leads you 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.
Conclude your 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.
Highlights
- Feel the power of the Southern Ocean from Nugget Point Lighthouse
- Walk through lush native forest to the stunning Purakaunui Falls
- Explore the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a gallery of kinetic art
- Discover the fossilized remains of a 180-million-year-old forest
- Travel in comfort through the remote Catlins region in a small group
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The tour departs at 7:00am from Te Anau.
The tour concludes in Dunedin in the early evening.
The visit to Cathedral Caves is tide dependent and may not always be possible.
Please provide the ages of any children on the booking
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
INCLUDED
- Small group experience (max 15 guests)
- Hotel pickup in Te Anau (select locations only)
- Fully guided by local experts
- Travel in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle
- Water and snacks provided
- Hotel drop-off in Invercargill
NOT INCLUDED
- Entry fee for Cathedral Caves
- Lunch - opportunity to purchase at own expense
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.