Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins & Invercargill 1 Way Tour

Exploring the Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins & Invercargill Tour

This tour offers a fascinating way to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic and lesser-known sights in a single day. While it’s a long journey—around 11 hours—it’s packed with stunning scenery, unique attractions, and insightful commentary from guides who know their stuff. We’re here to give you a comprehensive look at what makes this experience worth considering for your South Island itinerary.

What really catches our eye is the intimate size of the group, the variety of landscapes covered—from lush forests to rugged coastlines—and the chance to explore places that are often missed in larger tours. The tour’s price point of about $136 per person also offers a solid balance of value and adventure, especially considering the included stops and guides’ local expertise.

One potential downside is the tight schedule; if you prefer relaxed, unhurried sightseeing, this might feel hurried. Be prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing, with limited free time at each stop. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything and enjoy a well-organized, small-group experience.

This tour suits those with a sense of adventure, a love of nature, and an interest in discovering some of New Zealand’s hidden gems. If you’re after a full-day, small-group trip that combines scenic beauty with quirky stops, this could be an ideal choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 15 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate feel.
• Diverse Landscapes: From ancient petrified forests to rugged coastlines and waterfalls.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable locals who bring the scenery and history to life.
• Flexible Sightseeing: Tide-dependent stops like the Cathedral Caves add an element of unpredictability.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle that makes the long day feel more relaxed.
• Authentic Experiences: Unique stops like the Lost Gypsy Caravan and fossilized forests make this more than just sightseeing.

An In-Depth Look at the Journey

Starting Point and Early Drive

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups from central Te Anau, a convenient way to begin your day without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. From there, you’ll head southeast, gradually leaving the lush landscapes of Fiordland behind and entering the more open, rural scenery of Southland. The drive itself is a highlight, with a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle that makes the long hours pleasant, and a small group size that fosters conversation and personalized insights.

Invercargill: A Brief Pit Stop

Around 9:00 AM, the group makes a quick stop in Invercargill—a good chance to stretch your legs or even hop on or off if it’s your starting point. This city, often overlooked, offers a glimpse into the local life of Southland and sets the tone for the remote, less-touristy areas ahead.

More Great Tours Nearby

Curio Bay and the Fossilized Forest

One of the standout stops here is Curio Bay, where you’ll see fossilized remains of a 180-million-year-old forest. This is visible at low tide, and the sight of ancient trees preserved in stone is captivating. Visitors mention how surreal it is to walk among the remains and imagine what the landscape looked like eons ago. Many reviews highlight the chance to see yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins at the shoreline, which adds a magical wildlife element.

Some travelers note the scenic walk to Cathedral Caves, but it’s tide-dependent, so accessibility might vary. The caves, towering sea caverns accessible through a cliff-top walk, are often described as stunning but require planning around tides and a small entry fee.

Papatowai and the Lost Gypsy Caravan

Next, the journey takes you to the quiet Papatowai village for a relaxed lunch break. Here, you can enjoy local eats and explore one of the tour’s more whimsical stops—the Lost Gypsy Caravan. This quirky gallery of kinetic art and handmade curiosities consistently surprises visitors with its creativity and charm. It’s a chance to see something uniquely Kiwi and perhaps pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Purakaunui Falls: A Photographer’s Dream

A short walk through lush native forest leads to Purakaunui Falls, often called one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls. Its tiered cascades and setting amidst verdant greenery make for a tranquil and picture-perfect moment. Reviewers mention the peacefulness of this stop and how it’s a highlight for nature lovers, especially those who appreciate a good photo op.

Coastal Views at Nugget Point

The tour’s climax is the visit to Nugget Point, where a gentle walk leads you to the lighthouse and the famous sea stacks. The panoramic views here are outstanding, with perspectives that showcase the raw power of the Southern Ocean. Expect to see fur seals and seabirds—a true highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.

Guests describe the spot as spectacular, remarking on how the rugged coast and crashing waves make it a dramatic viewing point. The guide often shares stories about the lighthouse and local marine life, adding context to the breathtaking scenery.

Ending in Dunedin

The journey concludes with a drop-off at your Dunedin accommodation, typically in the early evening. Dunedin itself offers a lively mix of Scottish heritage, historic architecture, and vibrant student life—a fitting place to end your adventure or start exploring more of the South Island.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The main value in this tour is the small group size, ensuring a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable guides who bring the stops to life. Transportation in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz makes the long day comfortable, and water and snacks are provided to keep energy levels up.

However, some costs aren’t included—such as entry fees for Cathedral Caves, which are tide-dependent, and lunch, which you’ll need to purchase separately. The tour’s price of $136 per person strikes a fair balance considering the diverse stops and expert guidance.

Children are welcome but must be in a car seat if under 7, which adds some planning for families. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the nature of some stops.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one day trip that combines wildlife, natural beauty, quirky local attractions, and scenic coastal views. If you value small-group intimacy and expert guidance, you’ll appreciate the personalized touch. It suits those eager to explore less-touristy parts of New Zealand while enjoying the comfort of organized transport.

The mix of nature, wildlife, and offbeat attractions makes it ideal for curious travelers who prefer meaningful, memorable stops over hurried sightseeing. It’s especially appealing if you’re a fan of photography, wildlife watching, or quirky artistic stops like the Gypsy Caravan.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderfully balanced way to see some of New Zealand’s most captivating sights without the hassle of self-driving. It’s a full day of varied landscapes, wildlife encounters, and local character—all in a small, friendly group. Guides bring the scenery to life with their knowledge, making each stop engaging and memorable.

While it’s a packed schedule, the variety of stops helps keep the experience fresh and exciting from start to finish. The price is reasonable for the scope of sights covered and the quality of transportation and guiding.

If you’re after a day of discovery that combines natural wonders with a touch of local charm, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy traveling with a small group, value expert insights, and want to see a mix of everything the South Island has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from selected central Te Anau accommodations, making it convenient to start your day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, beginning early in the morning and concluding in Dunedin in the early evening.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Are there any tide-dependent stops?
Yes, visits to Cathedral Caves are tide-dependent, so accessibility depends on the tide schedule.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are welcome, but those under 7 must travel in a car seat, which can be hired for $20NZD if needed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of some stops.

What’s included in the price?
Small-group travel, guide services, water and snacks, and pickup in Te Anau are included. Entry fees and lunch are not.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see fur seals, seabirds, Hector’s dolphins, and possibly yellow-eyed penguins at certain stops.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Many travelers highlight the variety of scenery—from waterfalls and forests to rugged coastlines—and the guides’ local insights that bring these places to life.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the rugged and diverse landscape of the South Island’s southern coast. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a lover of scenic drives, it’s a meaningful addition to any South Island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: