Some of the purest natural landscapes can be found in the South Island of New Zealand. The South Island offers adventures in all aspects from stunning vineyards and world-class wines, quaint towns and large cities to glacial valleys, a myriad of wildlife and bright, star-studded skies.

Top Things to do on New Zealand’s South Island
- Visit the vibrant city of Christchurch and uncover its urban centre with trendy street art and thriving food culture

- Walk the Hooker Valley Track and catch a glimpse of Mount Cook’s peak across the beautiful waters of Lake ...

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  1. South Island Glaciers & Sounds 8D7N, Self-Drive

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    Revel in the spectacular natural beauty of the South Island’s glaciers and sounds on this thrilling 8-day road trip. This package is perfect for first time visitors wanting to see and experience the best of Te Wahipounamu.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, shimmering lakes, lush rainforests, fast-moving glaciers and more. The South Island is especially breathtaking as the home of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. This 26,000 square kilometre (10,039sqmi) encompasses several national parks in southwest New Zealand – Mount Cook (Aoraki, Fiordland, Mount Aspiring and Westland National Park. On this road trip, you will visit them all!

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to see and experience the best of Te Wahipounamu. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including the Crown Range and Milford Road. Admire the remarkable turquoise coloured Lake Tekapo and bask in the brooding shadow of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Cruise the majestic Milford Sound and hike the famous Routeburn Track as well as the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. You will also embark on one of the world’s great rail journeys, the TranzAlpine, and have the opportunity to explore diverse cities and towns including Christchurch and Queenstown at your own pace.

    This exciting 8-day nature-focused self-drive package includes 7-nights’ superior hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools and spas. Six days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Discover the splendor of the South Island on this 8-day self-drive road trip. This sensational loop route is the perfect introduction to New Zealand’s glaciers and sounds.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Revel in the spectacular natural beauty of the South Island’s glaciers and sounds on this thrilling 8-day road trip. This package is perfect ...
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    From $4,189.25 Per Person, Twin Share
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  2. South Island Nature Trail 10D9N, Self-Drive

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    Follow the path of the kiwi on this immersive 10-day self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s best nature and wildlife experiences including Stewart Island and Doubtful Sound.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of natural spectacles and unique wildlife encounters. It is one of the few places in the world where, within the space of one day, you can experience mountain vistas, ancient forests, volcanic landscapes and stunning coastline – all while spotting wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. The South Island is especially breathtaking as the home of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. Located in the South Island’s southwest, this 2.6-million-hectare area is one of the greatest natural areas in the world, containing rocks, plants and animals dating back 80 million years to a time when New Zealand was part of the ancient super continent Gondwana.

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to tick off the South Island’s best natural and wildlife experiences. Drive one of the top 10 drives in the world, the Southern Scenic Route. Tour the Otago Peninsula and see the world’s rarest penguin, the Yellow-eyed Penguin, in its natural habitat. Venture over to Stewart Island and Ulva Island and hunt for the elusive kiwi. Spend a night on Doubtful Sound and discover a haven for dolphins, fur seals and even larger whales. You will also have ample time to explore diverse cities and towns including Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill and Queenstown.

    This breathtaking 10-day nature- and wildlife-focused self-drive package includes 9-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Ten days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Embrace the great outdoors on this unforgettable 10-day self-drive road trip of the South Island. The natural beauty and wildlife will inspire you.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Follow the path of the kiwi on this immersive 10-day self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s best nature and wildlife experiences including ...
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    From $3,757.44 Per Person, Twin Share
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  3. Luxury South Island Golf Trail 11D10N, Self-Drive

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    Take on the South Island’s best golf courses on this luxury, 11-day self-drive road trip featuring the world-famous Terrace Downs, Millbrook, Jack’s Point and Clearwater courses.

    New Zealand and golf have a long history. Scottish immigrants introduced the game in the 19th century and their links-style courses still thrive today. These courses are set in incredible locations – the South Island’s landscapes range from snow-capped mountains and endless plains to shimmering lakes and fast-moving glaciers. This road trip will take you on an unforgettable scenic golfing journey.

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to play the South Island’s best golf courses. Head inland to Windwhistle to take on Terrance Downs, in the heart of the brilliant Canterbury high country. Head south to Queenstown, where you will play Millbrook and Jack’s Point among the towering Southern Alps. Your journey culminates in Christchurch, where you’ll tee off at Clearwater, with its glistening spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams. Here, you’ll be walking in the footsteps golfing legends including Jason Dufner, Bubba Watson, Jason Day.

    When you’re not golfing, you’ll have ample to explore diverse cities and towns at your own pace. Highlights include exploring Mount Cook (Aoraki) National Park, travelling aboard the Tranzalpine (one of the world’s great rail journeys), and getting to know the vibrant alpine resort towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef. You’ll also have the opportunity to drive some of New Zealand’s best roads including the Crown Range and wild West Coast.

    This 11-day self-drive golfing adventure includes 10-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Nine days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Create lasting memories on the South Island’s best golf courses with this luxury 11-day golfing package. Come for the golf and stay for the exquisite food and wine, adventure activities, quiet nature and seamless hospitality.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Take on the South Island’s best golf courses on this luxury, 11-day self-drive road trip featuring the world-famous Terrace Downs, Millbrook, Jack’s ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  4. South Island Bike 'n' Hike 12D11N, Self-Drive

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    Bike and hike the best of the South Island on this action-packed 12-day self-drive road trip including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail, Routeburn Track, Queenstown Trail, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, shimmering lakes, lush rainforests, fast-moving glaciers and more. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking and biking, the North Island New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks and Rides (known to be some of the best hikes and rides in the world) and many other exciting activities, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip offers the best of the South Island on two feet – and two wheels! 

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to see and experience the splendor of the South Island. Stretch the laces on your hiking boots in Mount Aspiring National Park and the Mount Cook region, home to unforgettable walks including the Routeburn, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley Tracks. Cycle the South Island’s Great Rides including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail and Queenstown Trail. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to explore vibrant cities and towns, and learn about New Zealand’s fascinating pioneering and gold mining history.

    This thrilling 12-day hiking- and biking-focused self-drive package includes 11-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools and spas. Twelve days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeing as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast and some meals provided.

    Embrace the great outdoors on this exhilarating 12-day self-drive road trip. This package is perfect for active couples and families seeking the South Island’s ultimate hiking and biking experiences .

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Bike and hike the best of the South Island on this action-packed 12-day self-drive road trip including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  5. North To South Gourmet Wine Trail 9D8N, Self-Drive

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    Taste your way around New Zealand on this mouth-watering 9-day self-drive culinary adventure including the world-famous wine regions of Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Marlborough.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a paradise for those who prefer the finer things in life. The country’s rich soil and favourable climate means it produces some of the world’s best food and wine – in some of the most stunning landscapes, be it close to a stunning shoreline or nestled in a rural area with an off-the-beaten-track charm. Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Marlborough are 3 of the best – and most beautiful – regions in which to enjoy a mouth-watering fresh produce and a matching glass of wine.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to discover New Zealand’s best food and wine experiences. New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, Hawke’s Bay is known for its red wines – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah – and stunning Chardonnays, while rural Wairarapa, with its bush-clad ranges and rugged coast, is home to some of the country’s best Pinot Noir. The Marlborough wine region, meanwhile, is all about world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, delicious fresh seafood and diverse landscapes, from valleys of vines to sheltered waterways. You will embark on guided tours of each of these regions.

    Along the way, you will discover New Zealand food goes way beyond fish and chips and barbeques – New Zealand chefs have developed a distinct Pacific Rim cuisine. Expect to indulge in plenty of seafood (like greenlipped mussels, crayfish (lobster), Bluff oysters and fresh fish), award winning cheeses and of course the famous lamb. You should also expect a laidback, friendly atmosphere wherever you eat; Kiwis love to keep things casual.

    This relaxed 9-day self-drive package includes 8-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Eight days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Indulge in New Zealand’s best food and wine experiences on this 9-day self-drive road trip. You’ll discover food and wine that’s original, world-class, and fresh from the source.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Taste your way around New Zealand on this mouth-watering 9-day self-drive culinary adventure including the world-famous wine regions of Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  6. North To South Ultimate Traverse 22D21N, Self-Drive

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    Do and see it all on the ultimate New Zealand road trip, a 22-day odyssey from the Bay of Islands to the Southern Alps. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure showcases the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the Great Walks.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: tropical beaches, snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, raging rivers and active volcano zones. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking, biking, paddling and more, New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks (known to be some of the best hikes in the world) and many other day and multiday hikes, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip leaves no stone unturned on an epic journey from north to south.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to tick off New Zealand’s best active experiences. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including Buller Gorge, the Crown Range and Milford Road. Discover dramatic landscapes, magnificent wilderness and stunning wildlife on New Zealand’s Great Walks including the Tongariro Northern Circuit, the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Routeburn Track. Uncover beautiful beaches and twinkling bays on in the Bay of Islands and Coromandel, and a geothermal wonderland in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Follow the path of Captain James Cook on the Queen Charlotte Track, heli hike to the top of the Franz Josef Glacier and bask in the brooding shadow of Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. You will also have the opportunity to cruise Lake Wanaka and the magnificent Milford Sound, and explore diverse cities and towns including Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch at your own pace.

    This action-packed 22-day active and nature-focused self-drive package includes 21-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Twenty-two days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Do New Zealand – and do it right – on this thrilling 22-day self-drive road trip from North to South. The diverse landscapes and exciting experiences will capture your heart.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Do and see it all on the ultimate New Zealand road trip, a 22-day odyssey from the Bay of Islands to the Southern Alps. ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  7. North To South Grand Traverse 17D16N, Self-Drive

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    Traverse New Zealand from North to South on this action-packed 17-day self-drive road trip showcasing the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the Great Walks.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: tropical beaches, snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, raging rivers and active volcano zones. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking, biking, paddling and more, New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks (known to be some of the best hikes in the world) and many other day and multiday hikes, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip leaves no stone unturned on an epic journey from north to south.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to tick off New Zealand’s best active experiences. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including Buller Gorge, the Crown Range and Milford Road. Discover dramatic landscapes, magnificent wilderness and stunning wildlife on New Zealand’s Great Walks including the Tongariro Northern Circuit, the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Routeburn Track. Uncover beautiful beaches and twinkling bays on the Coromandel Coastal Walk and a geothermal wonderland in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Follow the path of Captain James Cook on the Queen Charlotte Track and heli hike to the top of the Franz Josef Glacier. You will also have the opportunity to cruise Lake Wanaka and the magnificent Milford Sound, and explore diverse cities and towns including Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch at your own pace.

    This exhilarating 17-day active and nature-focused self-drive package includes 16-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Seventeen days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Get the most out of your trip to New Zealand, with this 17-day self-drive road trip. The beautiful landscapes and thrilling activities will stay with you.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Traverse New Zealand from North to South on this action-packed 17-day self-drive road trip showcasing the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  8. Ultimate Scenic South Island Road Trip, self-drive

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    Discover New Zealand’s most epic natural scenery with this luxury 12-day, self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s must-see sights.

    Departing from Christchurch, board the Tranzalpine to Greymouth and experience one of the world’s best inland rail journeys before picking up your hire car. From a helicopter, take in jaw-dropping aerial views of Franz Josef Glacier. Cruise Lake Wanaka and discover rare birds and a secret lake. Get your heart pounding in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere, with hundreds of outdoor activities to choose from including jetboating, bungy jumping, mountain biking and more. Walk and cruise the Milford Sound and be transported to a fantastical world of crystalline fiords and snow-capped mountains. Drive the Scenic Southern Route – one of the world’s most scenic drives – and explore the southern cities of Invercargill and Dunedin. Traverse Hooker Valley and Aoraki Mount Cook and marvel at some of the world’s darkest, most star-filled skies.

    This incredible 12-day, self-drive road trip is offered at two price points: -4-star “best” staying at some of the South Island’s best 4-star hotels.-4-5-star “luxury” staying at a mix of 4 and 5-star hotels and lodges, for those seeking a little more luxury.

    Both versions of the road trip include 11-nights in handpicked accommodations throughout the South Island. A hire car is included for the duration of the trip. Selected meals, activities and experiences are also included.

    Be swept away by the natural beauty of New Zealand on the Ultimate Scenic South Island Road Trip.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Discover New Zealand’s most epic natural scenery with this luxury 12-day, self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s must-see sights. Departing from ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  9. Ultimate Luxury South Island Road Trip 8D7N, Self-Drive

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    Discover the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this ultra-luxe, 8-day, self-drive road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown, including the famous Milford Sound.

    Departing from Christchurch, set out in your included compact SUV to discover majestic landscapes that offer awe and adventure in equal measure. Over eight days, be blown away by lush peninsulas, turquoise lakes, sparkling glaciers, snowcapped mountains and more. Step back in time in Oamaru and explore the country’s oldest public gardens, renowned Victorian architecture and two penguin colonies. Ride horses through the Ahuriri Valley, a dramatic landscape of rugged mountain country, wetlands, tussock lands and beech forest. Get your heart pumping in Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of the Southern Hemisphere. Or, sample world-famous wines in the nearby Gibbston Valley. Cap off your adventure with a 5-star cruise through the breath-taking Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attraction. This highly adaptable, self-paced itinerary is sure to leave you spellbound!

    At the end of each action-packed day, rest and relax in some of New Zealand’s best super lodges. These ultra-luxe accommodations have been handpicked for their outstanding location, impeccable design, gourmet cuisine and one-of-a-kind activities and experiences. They are owned and operated by people who share a deep love and knowledge of their surroundings and a dedication to ensuring you have the holiday experience of a lifetime

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    This ultra-luxe package includes accommodation and exclusive experiences at New Zealand’s famous super lodges in Oamaru, the Ahuriri Valley and Queenstown, as well as a 5-star cruise in the famous Milford Sound.

    Treat yourself to the ultimate South Island experience on this ultra-luxe, 8-day self-drive road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown. You deserve the very best!

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

    Christchurch, NZ
    Discover the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this ultra-luxe, 8-day, self-drive road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown, including the famous ...
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    From $7,882.24 Per Person, Twin Share
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  10. Wild West Coast Road Trip 9D8N, Self-Drive

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    Experience the epic, untamed beauty of New Zealand’s Wild West Coast on this luxury, 9-day, self-drive road trip from Wellington to Queenstown. Discover the world’s most accessible glaciers, a UNESCO-world heritage area and some of the country’s best hiking including the Queen Charlotte Track and Abel Tasman National Park.

    Departing from Wellington, journey across Cook Strait to Picton to retrace Captain Cook’s explorations on the epic Queen Charlotte Track. Venture on to Nelson and discover the coastal paradise of Abel Tasman National Park. Head south to Maruia River and Hokitika and get your heart pumping white-water rafting Buller Gorge or else exploring tranquil forest trails. Heli-hike the mighty Franz Josef Glacier and get up close and personal with this ever-changing natural wonder. At Lake Moeraki, choose your own adventure: look for dolphins, fur seals and penguins on Monro Beach or venture into ancient rainforest to historic huts. Journey inland to Wanaka and Queenstown to discover the glacier-formed lakes and stunning mountains that make the South Island famous.

    In the evenings, relax and unwind in hand-picked, 4 to 5-star hotels on a twin share basis. Your guest rooms are modern and comfortable with a king, queen or twin beds and ensuite bathroom. All hotels include full-breakfast and are conveniently located to local attractions, while maintaining an atmosphere of luxury and privacy.

    This luxury, 9-day, self-drive road trip includes 8-nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis. Activities, experiences and meals are included as specified, as is your hire car for the duration of the trip.

    Discover the best of the west on New Zealand’s Wild West Coast. The unspoilt wilderness is utterly unmissable!

    Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

     

    Wellington, New Zealand
    Experience the epic, untamed beauty of New Zealand’s Wild West Coast on this luxury, 9-day, self-drive road trip from Wellington to Queenstown. Discover ...
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    From $5,226.90 Per Person, Twin Share
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