A century ago, the Australian outback was but a twinkle in most travellers’ eyes. But thanks to visionaries like the Pyke family and Bill King, the way we explore the Land Down Under was about to change in unimaginable ways. Over the coming decades, maps were unfolded, desert cruisers and coaches were customised, and guides were trained. From humble beginnings, the company now known as AAT Kings was going places few had gone before, pioneering new paths across Australia and New Zealand and taking intrepid domestic and international travellers on a wild and wonderful ride.
We’ve spent the last century perfecting a Holy Grail of life-changing moments around Australia and across New Zealand – ones you likely never knew even existed, and that you won’t find in a guidebook or listed on any website. Our DNA has never changed – we are, and always have been pioneers committed to worry-free and sustainable travel, revealing these majestic countries in a way that you never imagined possible.
We get beneath the skin of the destinations we take you to, offering only-locals-know adventures and insights that most other travellers will never even know existed. We take you places, and our passionate insiders – whether vintners, farmers, astronomers, chefs, historians or Indigenous artists – reveal their true beauty.
We’re constantly looking for new ways to make your journey extraordinary, whether that’s an exclusive sunrise tour of Uluru’s Field of Light, a dazzling display at the Dark Sky Reserve in Lake Tekapo, or an Outback sunset barbecue. Sit back and dream a little, all the complicated stuff? We’ll take care of it.
What you want from your holiday is not necessarily the same as your neighbour – we get that. Sometimes, it’s all about adventure, about hiking to that summit or discovering a remote waterfall. Often, all you need is a good glass of wine and time to appreciate a remarkable view. Perhaps you want to see major sights, or visit in-the-know haunts, or choose your own offbeat path while we handle the main roads. Whatever your destination and however you want to get there, we have an itinerary for you.
A travel vacation should not only be an unforgettable experience, but offer solid peace of mind. That’s why USTOA created a consumer protection fund which protects consumers who book with our Active Members.
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