Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1-Way Tour: A Detailed Review
If you’re craving a taste of New Zealand’s untamed southern coast, this Invercargill to Dunedin tour offers a fantastic day full of scenic beauty, wildlife surprises, and quirky stops. For about $150.80 per person, you’ll get roughly nine hours of carefully curated sightseeing, led by expert guides in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The small-group size — capped at 15 travelers — means you get plenty of individual attention and room for spontaneous questions.
What we love about this tour: First, the diverse stops—from fossil-filled beaches to iconic lighthouses—offer a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural wonders. Second, the personalized experience in a small group makes the day feel less rushed and more relaxed, perfect for those who prefer intimate travel over large bus loads.
A possible consideration: the moderate walking involved means it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues. Also, since lunch is not included, you’ll want to bring cash or a card for that mid-day break.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, wildlife, and unique local sights, and who want to explore the less-traveled corners of New Zealand’s South Island without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments, this fits the bill.
Key Points
- Small group size enhances personal interaction and comfort
- Diverse scenic stops including fossilized forests, waterfalls, and lighthouses
- Expert local guides enrich the experience with insights and stories
- Comfortable transportation in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle
- Flexible logistics with pickup options in Invercargill and drop-off in Dunedin
- Moderate walking involved, not ideal for mobility-challenged travelers
Planning more time in Invercargill? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Discovering Curio Bay: Fossils and Wildlife
Our journey begins at Curio Bay, a place where millions of years unfold before your eyes. As you stroll across the fossilized remains of a 180-million-year-old forest at low tide, you’re walking through a slice of prehistoric New Zealand. The fossilized forest is a quiet reminder of the Earth’s ancient past, and the fact that it’s visible only during low tide adds an element of timing to the visit.
Beyond the fossils, you might catch a glimpse of the yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho), one of the world’s rarest penguin species. Many travelers find this sighting a highlight, and guides often share interesting tidbits about the penguins’ conservation status. One reviewer noted, “The fossils are incredible, and seeing the penguins was a special treat.”
Papatowai and the Quirky Lost Gypsy Caravan
Next, we stop in Papatowai, a sleepy village that offers a peaceful pause. Here, you can stretch your legs with a lunch break (not included in the tour price), and visit the Lost Gypsy Caravan—a gallery bursting with handmade kinetic art and curiosities. This stop is a lighthearted contrast to the natural scenery, providing a taste of local creativity and whimsy.
Many guests find the caravan’s collection charming and inspiring, with one mentioning, “It’s a quirky place that makes you smile and appreciate local artisans.” If you’re into arts and crafts, this is a delightful detour that adds personality to the day.
The Enchanting Purakaunui Falls
A short walk through lush native bush takes you to Purakaunui Falls, a multi-tiered cascade frequently photographed for good reason. We loved the way the easy trail makes this gem accessible, even for less experienced hikers. The falls are a peaceful spot, perfect for photos or just soaking in the nature sounds.
Expect about 30 minutes here, which gives enough time to admire the striking beauty and snap a few pictures. Many visitors comment on the tranquility and pure natural beauty of this spot—truly a highlight of the tour.
Nugget Point Lighthouse: Dramatic Coastal Views
Next on the agenda is Nugget Point, perched high above the ocean. The scenic walk to the lighthouse offers breathtaking views, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see seals sunbathing on rocks or seabirds soaring overhead. The lighthouse itself is an iconic fixture, and from the viewpoint, you get a sweeping panorama of rugged coastline and ocean.
Expect about an hour here, giving ample time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and maybe even chat with fellow travelers. Many reviews praise this stop for its spectacular vistas and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
Ending in Dunedin
The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer to Dunedin, where you’ll be dropped at your centrally located accommodation. Dunedin, with its blend of heritage architecture and surrounding natural beauty, makes a perfect next stop or base to explore more of Otago.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The included features make this a particularly convenient experience: hotel pickup in Invercargill (in select locations), a drop-off in Dunedin, a small-group setting, and local expert guides. The vehicle, a luxury Mercedes-Benz, ensures comfort during the long day of sightseeing. Plus, there’s space for one large and one small piece of luggage per person, which is handy for travelers on multi-stop itineraries.
However, lunch is not included, so plan ahead. You might find Papatowai’s local café or pack a picnic. Also, admission tickets for the stops—like the fossil site, Purakaunui Falls, and Nugget Point—are free, which adds good value.
Transport, Timing, and Group Size
Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz creates a comfortable environment, especially on a day that involves several scenic drives and walks. The 9-hour duration includes travel time, scenic stops, and some free time to explore each site. The max 15 guests ensures a personal touch, no over-crowding, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or get tips from your guide.
The start time at 9:30 am gives a relaxed pace, and the itinerary is carefully timed to cover all the highlights without feeling rushed. Since the stops involve moderate walking, it’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers but not recommended for those with severe mobility difficulties.
Authenticity and Value
What sets this tour apart is its blend of natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and quirky local culture. Instead of just passing through, you’ll get meaningful perspectives from guides who know the area intimately. The free fossil site and scenic viewpoints add a sense of discovery that self-driving might not match, especially given the chance to interact with guides and fellow travelers.
At $150.80, the price reflects a good balance of comfort, expert guidance, and access to top sights. The small-group format adds value by allowing more personalized attention and a relaxed environment.
Many travelers mention the stunning views as a standout feature, noting that the stops are well-chosen for their photogenic qualities and natural charm. The diverse scenery—from ancient forests to rugged coastlines—keeps the day engaging and varied.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers curious about New Zealand’s lesser-known treasures. It suits those who prefer small-group travel over large bus tours, and who enjoy a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments. It’s a good choice for travelers with moderate fitness levels, as some walking is involved but not strenuous.
If you’re after a comprehensive taste of the Catlins’ highlights, without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings, this tour provides a well-organized, authentic experience.
FAQs
What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including travel, scenic stops, and some free time at each site.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring cash or a card for purchasing food during the stop in Papatowai.
Are the stops suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that some walking is involved. Children aged 7 years and below must travel in a child safety seat, which can be hired or supplied.
Will I see wildlife?
Many guests find wildlife sightings, such as seals at Nugget Point and possibly penguins at Curio Bay, to be highlights.
What should I wear?
Comfortable layers and sturdy shoes are recommended, as some walks are involved and weather can change quickly along the coast.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Moderate walking is involved, so it’s not suitable for those with severe mobility difficulties.
How do I get picked up?
Pickup is available in Invercargill at select hotels. Confirm your location when booking.
Final Thoughts
This Invercargill to Dunedin tour via the Catlins is a compelling choice for travelers eager to see a mix of prehistoric forests, rugged coastlines, and rare wildlife in a relaxed, intimate setting. The stops are carefully selected to showcase the region’s natural beauty and unique quirks, making it a memorable addition to your South Island adventure.
While not the cheapest option, the value lies in the personalized experience, expert guidance, and the chance to visit some of New Zealand’s most photogenic spots without the stress of self-driving. Perfect for those who want to learn, see, and capture the stunning diversity of New Zealand’s southern coast.
Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who loves scenic drives and quirky stops, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out in Otago’s beautiful landscape.