New Zealand focused WW1 Somme Private Tour

Exploring the WWI Somme Battlefields with a New Zealand Focus: A Practical, In-Depth Look

If you’re considering a tour that takes you through some of the most poignant sites of the Western Front, the New Zealand focused WW1 Somme Private Tour offers a personalized way to connect with history. While we haven’t personally done this tour, its detailed itinerary and thoughtful approach make it stand out for anyone interested in understanding the sacrifices made during WWI, especially from a New Zealand perspective.

What draws us in? First, the private nature of the tour means it’s tailored to your interests, creating a more intimate experience. Second, the opportunity to explore key memorials and battle sites with an experienced guide promises a richer, more meaningful visit. That said, one point to consider is the price point—at around $430 for up to three people, it’s not the cheapest option, but the depth of focus and customization might well justify it.

This tour suits history buffs, those with a personal connection to New Zealand’s WWI efforts, or travelers who want a flexible, informative day out. If you’re after a detailed, respectful exploration of the Somme battlegrounds with a focus on New Zealand’s role, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points:

• Private, customized experience tailored to your interests
• Focus on New Zealand’s contributions and memorials
• Flexible itinerary that can include special sites if requested
• Comprehensive visit to key WWI battleground sites and memorials
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before

What to Expect from the Tour

This private tour is built around your interests, with a starting point in Arras or Albert, both towns rich in WWI history. The day lasts approximately 9 hours and covers some of the most important sites on the Western Front, providing insights into the battles, the soldiers’ experiences, and the memorials that honor their sacrifice.

The tour kicks off at Memorial Terre-neuvien De Beaumont-hamel, where you’ll walk through preserved trenches, getting a real sense of what those soldiers endured. Hearing about the Newfoundland Regiment’s tragic 1916 battle helps to humanize the war experience. The guide’s storytelling brings the site to life, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Next, you visit Lochnagar Crater, the largest man-made crater from WWI, which is a stark reminder of the destructive power of warfare. Walking across this scarred landscape leaves a lasting impression, helping you grasp the scale of the battles that took place here. The guides often share details about the battle to connect the landscape with the history, making the experience more meaningful.

The itinerary includes a visit to Dartmoor Cemetery, which is less visited but offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere. Here, stories of individual soldiers and other war-related insights are shared, adding personal layers to the day. From there, you’ll see several memorials, including the Caterpillar Valley Memorial, where the names of missing soldiers are inscribed. For New Zealand visitors, seeing the names of their fallen and the resting place of the unknown soldier makes the experience especially poignant.

The tour also includes stops at Grevillers New Zealand Memorial and Lassigny, where you’ll get a close look at the sites of significant NZEF actions in 1918. These are moments where the landscape and its memorials connect directly to New Zealand’s contributions, giving a sense of pride and historical perspective.

Further along, the tour takes you to Colincamps, home to the second-largest New Zealand cemetery in France, and Mailly-Maillet, where the NZEF field ambulance was based. These stops provide a more personal view of the war effort, connecting the battlefield to the soldiers’ care and sacrifices.

One of the most iconic moments is standing at The Sunken Lane, where Geoffrey Malins filmed the detonation of the Hawthorn Ridge mine. The site’s visual and historical significance makes it a highlight for many history enthusiasts.

How the Tour is Structured

The tour’s structure is flexible, allowing the guide to adapt based on your interests or any specific sites you’d like to include. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 9-hour journey, and the tour is exclusive to your group, making it a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

Timing begins at 9:00 am, with the day including a variety of stops, each offering different perspectives on the battle and memorial efforts. The lunch break is not included, so you might want to bring your own or plan for a break during the day.

The Value of the Experience

At a price of around $432 for three people, this tour represents a significant investment, but one that many might find worthwhile for the depth of understanding and personalized storytelling it offers. The reviews highlight the flexibility and utility of the guide, with one reviewer noting that Alison provided an “informative tour with lots of flexibility.”

The fact that the tour is private means you won’t be rushed or distracted by other groups, allowing you to ask questions and focus on the sites that matter most to you. The ability to research and include specific soldier or unit stories adds an extra layer of personalization, which makes this tour stand out.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is well-reviewed, it’s important to note that weather can impact the experience, as with any outdoor activity. The tour offers a full refund or reschedule if canceled due to poor weather. Also, since it is a full-day excursion, be prepared for a long day of walking and driving, which might be tiring for some.

Plus, the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, but the private format and focus on personal history could justify the cost for many.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is best suited for those who want a personalized and in-depth look at the WWI battlefields, especially if they have a connection to New Zealand’s military efforts. History lovers, educators, or people seeking a meaningful way to commemorate the fallen will appreciate the focus on memorials and personal stories.

Travelers who prefer a structured, guided experience that offers flexibility and insights will find this appealing. If you’re after a quick overview or a large group tour, this might not be the best match, but for those who want a tailored, respectful exploration of the Somme, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and visits to all listed sites. Lunch is not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible. If you have specific sites or areas related to your family or interests, you can ask the guide to include them.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning at the end of the day.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Better weather is always a consideration, and cancellations due to poor weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on historical sites and walking may be better suited for older children or teenagers interested in history.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the day more comfortable.

In the end, this tour offers a thoughtful, personalized way to explore the WWI battlefields of the Somme with a focus on New Zealand’s part in the conflict. It’s ideal for those who want a flexible, in-depth, and respectful approach—especially if you’re eager to connect personally with the history and memorials of this significant battle.