Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour

4.7 (11 reviews) 9 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

11 reviews

4.7

Nugget Point — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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

Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Top Product New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 9 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

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

Not included

Not included: Lunch
Not included: Accommodation

Itinerary

Curio Bay

1 h 30 min

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).
Papatowai

one hour

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.
Purakaunui Falls Walk

30 min

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.
Nugget Point Lighthouse

one hour

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.
Dunedin

Passing 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.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

Please wait outside reception

End point

Drop off available to central locations

Pickup points

Kelvin Hotel
Birchwood Manor Motel
The Lodges At Transport World
Ascot Park Hotel
Distinction Invercargill Hotel
Quest Invercargill
The Langlands Hotel
Balmoral Lodge Motel
Tuatara Backpackers Lodge
Ibis Styles Invercargill
Monarch Motel

*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.

Using your ticket

*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
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.