Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
Starting out amid an extended strike in the 1920s when the cable tram drivers in the suburbs of northern Melbourne decided to stop work, a 24-year-old mechanic genius, Bill McGeary, saw an opportunity of a lifetime, converting his truck into a makeshift bus and began transporting travelers to their destinations.
Some 30-something years later, the son-like-father, Geoff McGeary, took over the business with even bigger visions. With a fleet of buses at hand and a great passion for showcasing Australia’s beauty at heart, this then-19-year-old dreamed of providing exceptional travel experiences throughout Australia, giving birth to the family luxury-travel brand we know today as Australia Pacific Tours (APT).
The flame of adventure, lit 95 years ago today, touches more than 90 countries worldwide, taking guests on luxury group tours that tell stories, build memories, forge lasting friendships, and positively impact every travel destination.
Wherever your wanderlust is calling you, APT Tours has you covered. So what can you expect from the best APT Tours?
Traveling can be so exciting, but traveling like a boss with a bunch of new buddies is truly life-changing. Whether your adventure craves a daring African 4WD safari, a mind-bending Private Jet Air Tour of Europe, an impulsive land journey to Australia, or a luxury yacht cruise to Canada and The US, APT tours will serve you yummy experiences spiced up by luxurious purpose-built air-conditioned coaches with top-notch drivers and hilarious fellow travelers aboard.
And their private jets are designed with maximum passenger comfort to offer less travel time and opportunities to explore each of your travel destinations in great depth and style.
To blow your mind with luxury, APT Tours offers private butler services on their Concerto River Ships, available in select suite categories, taking care of everything from garment pressing to packing and unpacking. Be the boss while they serve you.
How about designing your trip? APT Tours lets you add some personality to your experience by choosing from their freedom-of-choice activities list for an even better encounter. Depending on where your heart takes you, you can select from a range of optional activities specific to your travel destination, from wildlife treks to cultural explorations and everything in between. The choice is yours.
All APT trips are led by top-notch guides with insider knowledge of your travel destination. So expect to get off the beaten path to places only a lucky few traverse.
The headache of trip planning is so annoying. That’s why APT Tours makes every part of your travel planning seamless, from dedicated specialists who guide you through the booking process to specialized visa consultants who care for all your visa requirements. They go the extra mile to book your flights, accommodations, transportation, and even day tours, making you feel like the luxurious boss that you are.
You can trust a company with a 98% customer satisfaction rating and global recognition from key travel industry associations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to do justice to your vacation while putting your needs at the center of it all.
One of the most crucial things to consider while traveling is your health and well-being, which APT Tours prioritizes and takes care of. They provide strict pre-departure health screenings, industry-leading hygiene practices, and enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols to ensure all travelers have a safe and conducive environment.
APT Tours answered well to the call for sustainable traveling methods to protect the only planet we call home. They have committed to responsible travel through their Non-profit Organization OneTomorrow Charitable Fund, planting trees in bushfire-vulnerable areas of their travel destination, ensuring that your vacation with them benefits the communities you visit.
APT Tours has proven to be your best choice for luxury travel; wherever you want to go and whatever you want to experience, an APT expert is willing to get you by. For your ultimate travel inspirations, discover the absolute best APT tours we have carefully filtered for you. The magic is just a scrolls-through away.
Whatever your adventure style, vibes, or wherever you want to go, APT has it covered. Read on to find out the best APT tours which we have sorted for you to provide the ultimate travel inspiration.
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Tasmania Complete (2022)
This epic 12-day tour will take you on a genuine exploration of Tasmania – visiting the best attractions from Hobart to Launceston. You will breathe the world’s cleanest air as you journey through the beautiful landmarks of this Australian island state in search of the best and most authentic experiences with APT Tours’ Tasmania Complete (2022).
APT Tours will take you to Tasmania’s second-largest city that beams with the sparkling lights of old charm and city delights, with medieval streetscapes telling the stories of this riverside settlement and a touch of modernity fueling your best Launceston experience.
As you leave the allure of Launceston, make your way to Entally House, a beautiful historic homestead surrounded by magnificent gardens. Your experience in this 200-year-old mansion with colonial relics will be indescribable. The gardens are a pleasure to behold, with vibrant flowers in full bloom filling the air with their aroma, making you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
If the experience isn’t enough, your journey will lead you to the Cataract Gorge. This unique rock formation will leave your eyes peeled with excitement. As you follow the path along the river to explore the geological wonders of the gorge, rushing waterfalls will fill your ears. The fresh Tasmanian air will fill your lungs, pumping a great deal of enthusiasm and fulfillment into your veins.
But that’s not all; your adventurous journey will take you to Sheffield, a medieval town known for its beautiful murals that grace the buildings. You will walk through town to satisfy your art cravings in this place that feels like an open-air art gallery.
This trip is perfect for history buffs, sightseeing lovers and cultural enthusiasts who wish to learn about the history of Tasmania through its medieval structures. You will stay in luxurious accommodations and have the best dining options, including welcome and farewell dinners and some culinary tasting of Tasmania’s best cultural cuisine.
Inclusions:
Comfortable transportation on a purpose-built bus. Accommodation in luxury hotels and resorts, including Hotel Grand Chancellor at Hobart, with two nights at Strahan Village Smithton and Tall Timbers Hotel. Traditionally-inspired meals with 23 meals to be served throughout your 12-day journey. Orientation tours with top-notch guides equipped with insider knowledge of the best of Tasmania.
Trip specs:
$4383 per person, small group trip of 20 for 12 to 99 years olds.
Journey Through Tropical North Queensland (2023)
This 10-day tour will take you to East Asia in the far north of Queensland for your one-of-a-kind experience of the thrills of an authentic encounter with nature in the deep green. Discover the best of Queensland with APT Tour’s masterpiece, Journey Through Tropical North Queensland (2023), perfect for adventure and nature lovers.
Get your adventurous spirit up as you will be set out on a mind-boggling boat trip in Weipa, unraveling the hidden pearls of the region before heading to Bramwell Station, where you can observe the towering termite mounds of Bramwell Junction.
The sheer size of the piles will leave you in absolute awe, and you can appreciate the wonders of nature in its purest form. As you continue on your thrilling adventure, you will stop at Fruit Bat Falls and cool off with a refreshing swim in the pristine waters of the Elliott River.
You will proceed through the ancestral region of the Injinoo people after crossing the Jardine River via ferry and skirting the Jardine River National Park. You will be delighted with breathtaking views of Cape York as you journey along a 4WD trail to Frangipani Beach. The beach’s pristine sand and blue sea provide a stunning backdrop for unimaginable photographs.
Admire Albany Island from Somerset Beach and learn about the history of ‘Jackey Jackey’ and Frank Jardine. After experiencing the tip of Cape York, travel to historic Somerset Hill, the location of a post established by John Jardine in 1863. The area’s history with unbelievable stays at luxurious hotels and resorts and delectable meals adds to the adventure, creating a sense of excitement and wonder.
You will wrap up your journey with a transfer to Horn Island, boarding the local ferry, where you will take a guided tour of the World War II Base and Torres Strait Heritage Museum to learn how the island became an operational airbase following the bombing of Darwin. The tour is a fitting end to your adventure, and you can make it even better with other optional activities that will take your experience to the next level.
Inclusions:
Accommodation in fun, luxury hotels and resorts, including Albatross Bay Resort in Weipa. Comfortable transportation on a purpose-built coach and ferry crossing. Traditionally-inspired meals. Orientation tours with top-notch guides equipped with insider knowledge of Tropical North Queensland.
Trip specs:
$5395 per person, small group trip of 22 for 8 to 99 years olds.
Magnificent Europe Budapest to Amsterdam (2023)
Are you ready to explore the best of Central Europe in style? Get ready to pack your bags and prepare for an adventure. Adventure of a lifetime with APT Tour’s Magnificent Europe Budapest to Amsterdam (2023), taking you through the best cities of Europe, from the charms of Budapest to the thrills of Amsterdam.
Starting your journey with a wakening morning city tour of Budapest, you will marvel at its historical monuments and stunning architecture with your local guide telling you all the secret sauces to unlock the best of the city during your free time. As the evening sets in, you will set sail for Vienna, cruising past the sparkling riverbanks of Budapest and admiring the city’s lights dotting its skyline.
When you arrive in Vienna in the evening, you can participate in various activities to make the most of your time in this magnificent city. You will have a fantastic time in Vienna, whether you visit the iconic landmarks, sample some of the delicious local cuisines, or soak up the vibrant atmosphere before heading to Bamberg. In this World Heritage-listed city, you will join a local expert to explore its hidden gems and discover its fascinating history and culture.
You will then journey to Rudesheim, where you can cruise through the Rhine Valley to Koblenz, taking in the breathtaking scenery and picturesque villages. Come with your cruise director for a delightful evening walk through the lovely surroundings. Experience the local culture and a laid-back lifestyle in the charming town of Rudesheim.
As your journey continues, you will sail onwards to The Netherlands, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the company of your fellow travelers. With so many exciting and optional activities and experiences, your Central European adventure will surely be unforgettable.
Inclusions:
Comfortable and luxurious river ship sailing through Hungary, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands—14 nights accommodation in fun Concerto River Ship—orientation tours to the best cities of Europe with knowledgeable guides equipped with insider knowledge of these cities. Delectable meals totaling 41 and a wide range of beverages are served onboard.
Trip specs:
$3978 per person, a river ship containing 200 people from 8 to 99 years old.
New Zealand Rail Adventure (2023)
Get ready for a thrilling adventure in New Zealand as you set out on a lifetime journey in what will possibly be the best 15 days of your life on a railway with APT Tour’s New Zealand Rail Adventure (2023) which is perfect for adventurers and outdoor lovers!
You will start your adrenaline-pumping journey by traveling to Glenbrook and boarding the Vintage Steam Train heading through the stunning rural Franklin countryside, taking in the picturesque scenery. You will stop at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other must-see historic locomotives, and enjoy a delicious morning tea with a taste of New Zealand.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before boarding your coach to embark on a one-of-a-kind rail adventure through the Mamaku Ranges, creating unforgettable memories. Arriving in Rotorua with its geothermal geysers and rich heritage, visit the Te Puia Cultural Centre and immerse yourself in the fascinating Maori culture with an epic evening cultural display accompanied by traditionally made food that will leave you mesmerized.
Continue your sightseeing by visiting one of New Zealand’s most popular attractions – the Agrodome. Watch a thrilling show featuring sheepdogs and farmers as they demonstrate their impressive shearing, sheep-feeding and mustering skills. Then, spend the afternoon leisurely or why not choose some optional activities for an even better experience?
The following morning, step aboard the Interislander ferry to cruise from Wellington Harbour across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds to Picton. Enjoy the stunning scenery as you train on the Coastal Pacific to Kaikoura.
Finally, re-board your coach and travel to Christchurch, a renowned city known for its captivating gardens, stunning architecture and exciting adventure activities. Experience a breathtaking panoramic view of the city upon taking a gondola ride to the top of Port Hills. For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping or jet boating to end your New Zealand Rail Adventure on an astonishing note.
Inclusions:
Comfortable transportation on a couch, train and rail. Fourteen nights of premium accommodation in fun, luxury hotels, resorts and apartments, including Two Nights, at Sudima Hotel in Auckland, two Nights at Travelodge Hotel in Wellington etc.
Delectable meals count to 24; 14 breakfasts, with lunch to be served once, and nine well-prepared dinners, including remarkable Welcome and Farewell Dinner meals—orientation tours with top-notch APT Tour guides equipped with excellent knowledge of New Zealand.
Trip specs:
$4585 per person, a small group of 12 people from 18 to 99 years old.
Intimate Rockies and Northern Lights (2023)
From the Rocky Mountaineer to the mystic Maligne Lake and Athabasca Falls, to the Northern Lights in Yellowknife and the Great Slave Lake, this 12-day tour will take you on a journey to the great outdoors for a thrilling adventure through APT Tour’s Intimate Rockies and Northern Lights (2023).
Hop aboard the Rocky Mountaineer and enjoy the breathtaking views from GoldLeaf Service as you slice through the Rockies to Jasper National Park, taking in the incredible scenery that is so soothing to the eyes.
Arriving at Maligne Lake, you’ll be treated to a sight that will leave you spellbound. Cruise through the serene waters and witness the mystical Spirit Island – one of the most photographed islands in the region. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a historic chalet before stopping by Maligne Canyon and Athabasca Falls. Your lodge nestled in the Columbia Icefield awaits, but only after you relish dinner with some top-notch entertainment like no other.
Next up is Yellowknife, one of the world’s best spots for seeing the Northern Lights. You can explore the city with a local guide and learn about its fascinating history before heading to its original settlement to experience the area’s unique culture.
The highlight of your visit to Yellowknife is cruising over Great Slave Lake, one of the largest lakes in the world. Feel the wind in your hair and let your spirit soar as you marvel at the vast expanse of water stretching out before you. Behold! You have witnessed some of the world’s most beautiful sights. Your adventure ends, but the memories you’ve created will last a lifetime.
Inclusions:
Comfortable transportation on a couch. Eleven nights of premium accommodation in luxury hotels, including Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, Two Nights, Jasper National Park, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge etc. Luxurious dining counting to 21 meals with enjoyment and entertainment in a private ‘ViTeepee’ at Aurora Village; Orientation tours with knowledgeable APT Tour guides who know the ins and outs of Canada.
Trip specs:
$9859 per person, a large group of 200 people from 8 to 99 years old.
Ancient Kingdoms of Japan and South Korea (2023)
This 21-day luxury holiday is jam-packed with activities that will fuel your adventurous energy and ignite the history buff in you as it takes you on a trip through the fascinating history and traditions of Japan and South Korea with APT Tour’s mind-boggling Ancient Kingdoms of Japan and South Korea (2023).
Start your adventure with a full-day tour of South Korea’s vibrant capital before heading to Gyeongbok Palace, the largest palace in Korea, where you can witness the colorful changing of the guard ceremony. After which you will take a tour of the magnificent castle.
Your next stop is Gayasan National Park, home to Haeinsa Temple. One of the most important temples in Korea is home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a remarkable set of Buddhist scriptures that are carved onto over 80,000 wooden printing blocks. After a delicious and well-deserved lunch, travel to Gayatri Village to learn about traditional Korean crafts and culture.
Leave the charms of South Korea and head to Tokyo to visit the old town of Asakusa, known for its traditional architecture and lively atmosphere. You will then visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, for a one-of-a-kind experience. Disturb your taste buds with Japanese snacks as you grab one passing by a local street food stall and indulge in a tasty Japanese lunch.
After lunch, it’s time for your Freedom of Choice activity. Will you visit the Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking city views or immerse yourself in sumo wrestling? The choice is yours.
The journey continues with a visit to Kyoto, where you’ll take part in a traditional tea ceremony and learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes and ornaments with the opportunity to share dinner with a maiko or geisha.
Your adventure concludes in Osaka, where you’ll explore the vibrant city and its many attractions: the Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and the Umeda Sky Building, which offers incredible city views.
Inclusions:
Comfortable transportation on a couch. 20 nights of premium accommodation in luxury hotels, including the Lotte Hotel in Seoul,
Associa Takayama Resort, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, The Thousand Kyoto etc. Luxurious private dinner with a night of entertainment with a maiko or geisha; 42 meals to be served throughout your 21 days tour. Orientation tours with knowledgeable Tour guides who know the depth of Japan and South Korea.
Trip specs:
$14354 per person, a large group of 200 people from 8 to 99 years old.
Grand Kimberley Coast (2023)
Get ready for an exciting adventure to discover some of the most isolated places on the planet, teaming with wildlife and natural wonders on your daily Zodiac excursions to areas typically inaccessible to most travelers. This APT Tour’s Grand Kimberley Coast (2023) is perfect for great outdoor lovers, adventurers and seasoned travelers.
Your journey begins with a promise of turquoise waters as your ship arrives at the Buccaneer Archipelago, a stunning collection of over 800 islands. Your expedition team leader will lead you on exploring Adele Island, a remote coastal area bursting with life. Birdwatchers in the group will be delighted to spot kingfishers, egrets, herons, and white-bellied sea eagles.
So be sure to remain watchful for sea turtles., dolphins, and tropical fish as you cruise around in your Zodiac before heading to the Prince Frederick Harbour, a place of soaring red cliffs and lush mangroves where you’ll encounter saltwater crocodiles and mudskippers.
You will indulge in a delectable meal as you sail through before getting on your Zodiac vessels to the Hunter River and Naturalist Island. The Hunter River is one of the world’s most remote and pristine rivers, with fish and other marine life calling it home.
Your journey will be capped at Naturalist Island; this place boasts of rugged beauty and untouched wilderness, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world to witness and encounter some of the rarest wildlife on earth for an unforgettable experience.
Inclusions:
Comfortable transportation on Ocean Cruise. 9 nights on the MS Caledonian Sky cruise, taking daily excursions on Zodiac vessels. Twenty-six locally inspired meals and dining styles with many beverages on board; Orientation tours with knowledgeable Tour guides who know the depths of Grand Kimberly.
Trip specs:
$7170 per person, a large group of 200 people from 8 to 99 years old.
