29-Day Eastern Africa & Oceania Southern/Coastal Route: Mauritius, Australia & New Zealand in January
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that bridges the volcanic beauty of Eastern Africa's premier island destination with the iconic coastal landscapes of Oceania. This 29-day itinerary is meticulously designed for families who crave a balance of relaxation and exploration, focusing on the warm, tropical vibes of the Southern Hemisphere's peak summer in January.
From the coral-fringed beaches of Mauritius to the family-friendly surf of Australia's Gold Coast and the geothermal wonders of New Zealand, this route prioritizes kid-friendly activities and comfortable transit. You will experience the diverse cultures of the Indian and Pacific Oceans while enjoying high-standard amenities and logical international flight connections.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Port Louis, Mauritius - Arrival & Island Welcome
Arrival at SSR International Airport
Touch down in Mauritius and collect your rental car or meet your private transfer. The warm tropical air immediately sets the mood for your 29-day adventure.
Check-in at Trou d'Eau Douce
Settle into a family-friendly beachfront resort on the east coast, known for its calm lagoons and white sands.
Port Louis Waterfront Stroll
Explore the Caudan Waterfront in the capital, where kids can enjoy local crafts and snacks while you admire the harbor views.
Welcome Seafood Dinner
Enjoy a fresh Mauritian dinner featuring local spices and ocean-fresh catches at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 2: Pamplemousses, Mauritius - Botanical Wonders
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden
Witness the giant water lilies and diverse tropical flora in one of the Southern Hemisphere's oldest botanical gardens.
L'Aventure du Sucre
Visit this former sugar factory turned interactive museum, offering a sweet history lesson perfect for children.
Mont Choisy Beach
Spend a relaxing afternoon at this long, sheltered beach, ideal for children to swim in shallow, turquoise waters.
Sunset at Grand Baie
Browse the boutiques and cafes in the lively village of Grand Baie as the sun dips below the horizon.
Day 3: Chamarel, Mauritius - Nature's Colors
Seven Coloured Earths
Marvel at the unique volcanic sand dunes with their distinct rainbow hues in Chamarel.
Chamarel Waterfall
Take a short, kid-friendly walk to view the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius.
Ebony Forest Reserve
Join a guided tour to learn about island conservation and see rare endemic birds.
Le Morne Brabant Lookout
View the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site from the base, offering stunning coastal photo opportunities.
Day 4: Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius - Island Paradise
Speedboat Transfer
Depart from Trou d'Eau Douce for a short, exhilarating boat ride to the private island of Île aux Cerfs.
Snorkeling & Sandcastles
The island's lagoon is shallow and crystal clear, making it a safe haven for young snorkelers.
Beach BBQ Lunch
Enjoy a traditional grilled lunch on the sand with local musicians providing a tropical soundtrack.
Parasailing Experience
For older kids and adventurous parents, get a bird's eye view of the coral reef system.
Day 5: Casela, Mauritius - Wildlife Adventure
Casela Nature Parks Safari
Take a truck safari to see zebras, ostriches, and white rhinos in a scenic mountain setting.
Tulawaka Gold Coaster
Enjoy the park's alpine coaster, a thrill-ride that winds through the trees with mountain views.
Bird Park Exploration
Walk through the massive aviaries housing exotic birds from around the world.
Flic-en-Flac Relaxation
End the day at Flic-en-Flac beach, one of the best spots on the island for a local sunset vibe.
Day 6: Black River Gorges, Mauritius - Rainforest Trek
Macchabée Forest Trail
Embark on a manageable family hike through the lush indigenous forest with views of the canyon.
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
Visit the sacred Hindu lake and the giant statues of Shiva and Durga, a cultural highlight for all ages.
Bois Cheri Tea Plantation
Take a tour of the tea factory and enjoy a tasting session overlooking the crater lake.
Southern Coastal Drive
Drive along the rugged south coast, stopping at Gris Gris to see the waves crashing against the cliffs.
Day 7: Blue Bay, Mauritius - Marine Discovery
Blue Bay Marine Park
Board a glass-bottom boat to see some of the best coral gardens in Mauritius without getting wet.
Mahebourg Waterfront
Explore the historic village of Mahebourg and its colorful Monday market for authentic souvenirs.
Ile de la Passe Visit
Take a boat trip to this historic islet with ruins dating back to the Napoleonic wars.
Final Island Farewell
Enjoy a quiet dinner near Blue Bay as you prepare for the long journey to Oceania.
Day 8: Mauritius to Sydney, Australia - Trans-Oceanic Transit
Transfer to Airport
Head to the airport for your flight across the Indian Ocean toward Australia.
International Flight Departure
Settle in for a long-haul flight. Most routes connect via Perth or Dubai, though seasonal direct flights may exist.
In-Flight Entertainment
Take advantage of the flight time to rest and enjoy family movies.
Arrival in Sydney
Arrive in Sydney (timing depends on routing) and take a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle to your city hotel.
Day 9: Sydney, Australia - Iconic Harbor Welcome
Circular Quay Exploration
Walk between the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, the definitive Sydney experience.
Royal Botanic Garden
Let the kids run free in these vast harbor-side gardens while you enjoy views of the Opera House sails.
The Rocks Historic District
Wander through the cobblestone alleys and learn about Sydney's convict past in a family-friendly way.
Harbor Dinner Cruise
Cap off your first day in Australia with a dinner cruise to see the city skyline lit up at night.
Day 10: Sydney, Australia - Wildlife & Water
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Take the ferry from Circular Quay to the zoo, offering incredible animal encounters with a city backdrop.
Ferry to Manly
Enjoy one of the world's most scenic public transport rides across the Sydney Heads to Manly Beach.
Manly Corso & Beach
Walk the pedestrian Corso and enjoy an ice cream before hitting the family-friendly surf at Manly.
Sunset Fish & Chips
Eat like a local with fresh fish and chips on the beach as the summer sun sets.
Day 11: Sydney, Australia - Coastal Walks
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Walk the stunning cliffside path from iconic Bondi Beach to the family-friendly Bronte or Coogee.
Bondi Icebergs Lunch
Enjoy a casual lunch overlooking the world's most photographed ocean swimming pool.
Paddington Markets
Browse local Australian designs and crafts in this trendy neighborhood (Saturdays only).
Darling Harbour Dinner
The precinct features a massive playground and fireworks on select Saturday nights in January.
Day 12: Blue Mountains, Australia - Ancient Landscapes
Train to Katoomba
Take the scenic train ride from Central Station into the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park.
Scenic World
Ride the world's steepest railway and the glass-bottomed skyway for views of the Three Sisters rock formation.
Wentworth Falls Hike
Choose an easy family trail to see the spectacular waterfalls and valley views.
Return to Sydney
Relax on the journey back to the city after a day in the eucalyptus-scented mountain air.
Day 13: Sydney to Gold Coast, Australia - Flight North
Sydney Airport Transfer
Head to the domestic terminal for your short flight to the Gold Coast, Queensland's vacation capital.
Arrival in Gold Coast
Pick up your rental car and head to your accommodation in Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach.
SkyPoint Observation Deck
Get a 360-degree view of the coastline and the hinterland from the 77th floor of the Q1 building.
Beachfront Markets
Stroll through the night markets along the Esplanade (Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays).
Day 14: Gold Coast, Australia - Theme Park Thrills
Warner Bros. Movie World
Enjoy world-class rides and meet your favorite characters in this premier theme park.
Hollywood Stunt Driver Show
Watch a high-octane performance that will thrill kids and adults alike.
Paradise Country Visit
Experience an authentic Aussie farm stay with sheep shearing and kangaroo feeding.
Dinner at Broadbeach
Explore the diverse dining scene in Broadbeach, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining.
Day 15: Gold Coast, Australia - Rainforest & Wildlife
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Feed the wild lorikeets and see the koalas in this iconic sanctuary dedicated to Australian wildlife.
Burleigh Heads National Park
Take a family-friendly walk around the headland for views of the surfers and the Surfers Paradise skyline.
Tallebudgera Creek
Swim in the calm, turquoise waters of the creek, a local favorite for families with young children.
Sunset BBQ
Use the free public BBQ facilities at a local park for a quintessential Australian summer dinner.
Day 16: Gold Coast, Australia - Hinterland Escape
Springbrook National Park
Drive into the mountains to see the Natural Bridge, a stunning waterfall flowing into a cave.
Purling Brook Falls
Take the circuit walk to experience the lush gondwana rainforest and spectacular viewpoints.
Lamington National Park
Visit O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat for the Treetop Walk through the canopy.
Return to Coast
Descend back to the coast as the lights of the city begin to twinkle in the distance.
Day 17: Brisbane, Australia - Cultural Day Trip
Train to Brisbane
Take the comfortable Airtrain or G-Link/Train combo for a stress-free trip to the Queensland capital.
South Bank Parklands
Swim at Streets Beach, a man-made beach in the heart of the city, and visit the Queensland Museum.
CityCat River Cruise
Jump on the public ferry to see Brisbane's skyline and riverside mansions from the water.
Howard Smith Wharves
Enjoy dinner at this trendy precinct located right under the Story Bridge.
Day 18: Gold Coast, Australia - Water Park Fun
Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast
Spend a full day at Australia's biggest water park, featuring massive slides and a giant wave pool.
Calypso Beach Relaxation
Float down the lazy river for a break from the high-speed thrills.
Harbour Town Outlet Shopping
Head to Australia's largest outlet mall for some tax-free shopping and dinner.
Movies on the Beach
Check local listings for free outdoor summer movie screenings in Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise.
Day 19: Gold Coast, Australia - Leisure & Packing
Surfers Paradise Beach
Enjoy one last morning on the golden sands of the coast, perhaps taking a family surf lesson.
Lunch at a Surf Club
Visit a local Surf Life Saving Club for a massive, family-friendly meal with the best ocean views.
Final Souvenir Shopping
Pick up some Aussie treats like Tim Tams and Vegemite to share with friends back home.
Farewell Australia Dinner
Reflect on your Australian adventure over a sunset dinner at the Southport Yacht Club.
Day 20: Sydney/Gold Coast to Auckland, NZ - Crossing the Tasman
Transit to International Airport
Fly from Gold Coast or take a short connector back to Sydney for your flight to New Zealand.
Trans-Tasman Flight
The 3-hour flight to Auckland offers stunning views of the Southern Alps if you fly during the day.
Arrival in Auckland
Welcome to the 'City of Sails'. Pick up your rental car and head to your hotel in the CBD or Viaduct Harbour.
Dinner at Viaduct Harbour
Enjoy your first New Zealand meal overlooking the luxury yachts in the harbor.
Day 21: Auckland, New Zealand - Volcanic Views
Sky Tower Visit
Get your bearings with a trip up the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
Mount Eden Hike
Take a short walk up this dormant volcanic cone for a panoramic view of Auckland's two harbors.
Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium
Walk through the shark tunnels and see the penguin colony in this unique underground attraction.
Ponsonby Road Dining
Explore this trendy suburb for family-friendly eateries and artisanal ice cream.
Day 22: Waiheke Island, New Zealand - Coastal Bliss
Ferry to Waiheke
Take the 40-minute ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to this island of vineyards and beaches.
EcoZip Adventures
Soar over the vineyards with a tandem zipline experience designed for families.
Vineyard Lunch
Enjoy a world-class lunch at a family-friendly winery like Mudbrick or Stonyridge.
Oneroa Beach
Have a swim or explore the local shops in Oneroa village before catching the ferry back.
Day 23: Auckland to Rotorua, New Zealand - Cultural Heart
Scenic Drive South
Drive through the rolling green hills of the Waikato region, the heart of New Zealand's dairy country.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Experience the magic of The Shire with a guided tour through the 12-acre set used in the films.
Arrival in Rotorua
Check into your accommodation in Rotorua, the center of Maori culture and geothermal activity.
Te Puia Hangi Dinner
Experience a traditional Maori feast cooked in the ground and watch a cultural performance.
Day 24: Rotorua, New Zealand - Geothermal Wonders
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
See the Champagne Pool and the Lady Knox Geyser erupt in this colorful geothermal park.
Redwoods Treewalk
Walk across suspension bridges among giant 120-year-old California Redwoods.
Skyline Rotorua Luge
Ride the gondola up the mountain and race down the track on a three-wheeled luge cart.
Polynesian Spa
Relax in the family pools of this world-renowned spa overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Day 25: Rotorua to Coromandel, New Zealand - Coastal Charm
Agrodome Farm Show
See a live sheep shearing demonstration and learn about different sheep breeds.
Drive to Coromandel
Head toward the Coromandel Peninsula, famous for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe.
Hot Water Beach
Dig your own hot pool in the sand at low tide—a unique New Zealand family tradition.
Whitianga Evening
Settle into the coastal town of Whitianga and enjoy a local seafood dinner.
Day 26: Coromandel, New Zealand - Cathedral Cove
Cathedral Cove Boat Tour
Take a boat or kayak tour to see the iconic limestone arch made famous by 'The Chronicles of Narnia'.
Hahei Beach Picnic
Enjoy a relaxed family lunch on the golden sands of Hahei, one of the region's most beautiful spots.
Driving Creek Railway
Ride this unique narrow-gauge mountain railway through replanted native forest.
Coastal Lookout Hike
Take a short walk to Shakespeare Cliff for a stunning view over Mercury Bay.
Day 27: Coromandel to Auckland, New Zealand - Return North
Thames Historic Town
Stop in the gold-mining town of Thames for a stroll through its historic streets and local museums.
Miranda Hot Springs
Take a break at these large thermal pools, perfect for a mid-trip splash for the kids.
Check back into Auckland
Return to Auckland for your final two nights in the city.
Auckland Night Market
Experience the vibrant food scene at one of the city's rotating night markets.
Day 28: Auckland, New Zealand - Final Exploration
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Explore the Maori galleries and the natural history exhibits in this stunning building.
Mission Bay Beach
Visit this popular city beach for fish and chips and a run around the park.
Shopping at Commercial Bay
Pick up any last-minute gifts at Auckland's newest and most stylish shopping precinct.
Grand Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your 29-day journey with a final meal at a high-end restaurant in the Wynyard Quarter.
Day 29: Auckland, New Zealand - Departure
Final Kiwi Breakfast
Enjoy a classic New Zealand breakfast with local manuka honey and fresh fruit.
Transfer to Auckland Airport
Head to the airport for your journey home, carrying memories of an epic Southern Hemisphere summer.
International Departure
Board your flight home after a month of incredible family memories.
Homebound Reflection
Plan your next adventure as you fly over the vast Pacific Ocean.
Best Time to Visit Africa & Oceania
For this specific route, January is the absolute peak of the Southern Hemisphere summer. While it is winter in the Northern Hemisphere, you will experience hot, tropical weather in Mauritius (ranging from 25°C to 30°C) and warm, sunny conditions in Australia and New Zealand (20°C to 28°C). This is the best time for beach activities and wildlife spotting, though it is also the peak travel season, so early bookings for accommodation and major attractions are essential.
Visas & Border Crossings
Mauritius offers visa-free entry or visas on arrival for many nationalities, making it an easy first stop. Australia requires an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a visitor visa for most travelers, which should be applied for at least a month in advance. New Zealand requires an NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for many passport holders. Ensure all family members have at least six months of passport validity. When flying between Australia and New Zealand, allow ample time for customs and biosecurity, as both countries have strict rules regarding food and biological products.
Getting Around Africa & Oceania
The most efficient way to cover these vast distances is via international flights. Air Mauritius and Qantas provide reliable links between Africa and Australia, while Air New Zealand and Jetstar dominate the Trans-Tasman routes. Within Mauritius, a rental car or private driver is best for flexibility. In Australia, the rail network in Sydney and Brisbane is excellent, but a rental car is recommended for the Gold Coast hinterland. In New Zealand, a rental car or motorhome is the gold standard for family travel, offering the freedom to explore the diverse landscapes at your own pace.
