Royal Otago - Larnach Castle, Penguins & Albatrosses

This small-group tour explores the city of Dunedin taking you to some of the finest lookouts and highlights of this small city including Baldwin Street (the steepest street in the world), the Dunedin Railway Station, and Otago University. You will head out on to the Otago Peninsula where your first stop is Larnach Castle. This is the only castle in New Zealand and it is surrounded by a garden manicured to a level of international significance. You will have free time to eat lunch (not included) and explore the interior of the castle where you will see how an elite family of the early day New Zealand would have lived, and the beautiful gardens that have some of the finest views of the Otago Peninsula.

The tour continues to the remote areas of the Otago Peninsula to take in the majestic scenery and some unusual waders and waterfowl that inhabit the rich mudflats, including the Royal Spoonbill and bar-tailed godwit. Enjoy the sights before navigating through a series of hides and tunnels to get up close to the Yellow-eyed penguin in their nesting area without disturbing them. Absolutely unrivaled viewing can be enjoyed during the early afternoon where chicks can be observed in their nesting area.

Towards the end of this excursion you will learn why the Otago Peninsula represents the only mainland breeding colony of the Northern Royal Albatross, massive scavengers with a wingspan of almost 10 feet. Your guide will take you to the best place to see these birds flying before making your way back to Port Chalmers.

See our FAQ for more information