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Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour

11 Reviews 4.73 out of 5 stars Based on 11 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Invercargill, New Zealand
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

9 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover New Zealand’s wild southern coast on a full-day tour from Invercargill to Dunedin. Traverse the stunning Catlins region, where ancient forests meet dramatic coastlines. Marvel at Curio Bay's fossilized forest, catch glimpses of rare wildlife, and visit the whimsical Lost Gypsy Caravan. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the picturesque Purakaunui Falls and take in ocean views from the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse. With expert guides and small-group travel, this tour promises a relaxed and immersive experience in one of the South Island’s hidden gems.

- Full-day one-way tour from Invercargill to Dunedin (approx. 9 hours)
- Small group experience with a maximum of 15 guests for personalized attention
- Expert local guides and luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle included
- Scenic stops include Curio Bay, Nugget Point Lighthouse, and Purakaunui Falls

What's Included

  • Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
  • Hotel pickup in Invercargill (select locations only)
  • Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Lunch
  • Accommodation
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

*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 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 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.

OR
Meeting point

3 Esk Street West
Invercargill 9810, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Dunedin
New Zealand

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Curio Bay

Our first major stop is at Curio Bay, where you’ll walk across the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest—visible at low tide. Keep an eye out for rare yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) and playful Hector’s dolphins in the surf.Alternative stop: If tides allow, we may visit Cathedral Caves, a stunning pair of massive sea caverns accessible via a short forest and beach walk (entry fee applies).
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Papatowai

We pause in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch (own expense) and a visit to the delightfully quirky Lost Gypsy Caravan, a gallery of handmade kinetic art and curiosities that’s sure to amuse and inspire.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Purakaunui Falls Walk

Take a short, easy walk through lush native bush to reach Purakaunui Falls, one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls. This beautiful multi-tiered cascade is a tranquil highlight in the heart of the Catlins.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Nugget Point Lighthouse

Next, we make our way to the dramatic Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched high above the ocean. Enjoy a short scenic walk to the viewpoint, where you can spot seals sunbathing on the rocks and seabirds soaring above the iconic “nugget” sea stacks below.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Dunedin (pass by)

We conclude the journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central accommodation. Rich in heritage and surrounded by natural beauty, Dunedin is a vibrant southern city – and a perfect place to continue your South Island adventure.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).This tour 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. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-56760P90

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.73
11 reviews

Average 4.73 out of 5 stars based on 11 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
  • Hotel pickup in Invercargill (select locations only)
  • Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Small group experience (max 15 guests)
  • Central hotel drop off in Dunedin
  • Fully guided by local experts
  • Lunch
  • Accommodation

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
  • 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.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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