Pacific Discovery ~ Insightful Small Group Adventures

Welcome to Pacific Discovery. Our trips have grown from a passion for the lands ‘down under’, a love of South East Asia (and travelling), wonderful friendships with local people, and a desire to share this magic with others. Having successfully run semester long experiential travel study programs for US university students since 1998, taking students from across the US to far flung corners of the earth, we are now also offering a range of 2-4 week itineraries for the plus 30’s. In part, this may be a reflection of our own maturing tastes and interests, but mostly, it is due to the large number of requests we receive from family and friends of our clients.

Pacific Discovery tour itineraries continue to provide the same quality interpretive yet adventurous experience that we are renowned for, with a little more comfort and time to explore independently of the group.

Experience
Collectively we have over twenty years experience guiding small group adventures in New Zealand, Australia, Southeast Asia and South America.

Knowledge
Our tours are led by people with extensive experience in the countries we visit, who share a deep respect for the people and cultures, a fascination with their history, and awareness of contemporary issues and politics. In Asia local English-speaking guides accompany us for sections of each tour, offering a unique source of knowledge to help you get the most out of your travels. In New Zealand & Australia you are accompanied by ‘Kiwis’ and ‘Aussies’ with a passion for their countries and the ability to impart unique insight.

Value
Being an owner operated business we do-it-all, from researching itineraries to answering enquiries and guiding tours. Our ‘store front’ is web based which keeps our fixed costs and expenses to a minimum. Consequently, we are able to offer a unique and very personalized experience with a higher standard of service and a superior level of accommodation compared with other companies in our price range.

Accommodation
All our tours use a range of accommodation chosen to enhance the experience of the area in which we are staying. When we are in major towns or cities we use quality hotels and guesthouses which reflect the character of the country. If we have to rough it a little we make sure the facilities are clean and you have the choice of all the comforts we can find.

Adventure & Fitness
Our tours are generally designed for people who are at least moderately active. However, we do offer active and non-active options. There is no compulsion to participate in included activities, and there are often less or more physical options, depending upon your preference. Please refer to each itinerary for activity levels.

Small Group Travel
Our tours are sociable ~ we encourage group members to eat and drink together. Of course, this is by no means compulsory and everybody is free to do their own thing. Many of our clients remain friends long after the tour is over and most stay in regular contact with us.

Peace of mind
Pacific Discovery is a private New Zealand based NGO formed to promote experiential education and sustainable tourism. Our incorporation number is WN/1148326. We are committed to providing a quality experience, upholding high standards of professionalism, ensuring our clients' comfort and safety are foremost, and adopting a code of environmental responsibility. We carry Public Liability insurance. All client payments are held in trust account until disbursement, and accountant contacts are available if required. We have a database of clients who are happy to be contacted to discuss their experiences. Please contact us for their details.

Please read our: Pacific Discovery sustainability policy

“We have travelled on a number of tours with various tour companies. None has enabled us to get as close to the land and people as this one. It has presented us with cultural challenges but with great support to easily meet and enjoy them. Everyday has brought a new experience. This has been possibly the most interesting three weeks of our lives.” Barbara and Terry Cass, 2007

“The Pacific Discovery trip was a wonderful way to see Southeast Asia and experience its various cultures. I developed friendships with all of the group members and had so many great experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life. Highly recommended!“
Nathan O'Brien, 2006