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New Zealand's Wild Wonders: Southern Alps & National Parks
South Island, New Zealand
14 Days
From $10995
Hiking with two days of kayaking
New Zealand's Wild Wonders: Southern Alps & National Parks
South Island, New Zealand
14 Days
From $10995
Hiking with two days of kayaking
Trip Overview
Adventure in New Zealand — Glaciers, Great Walks, and Wild Coastlines
New Zealand’s South Island is a dream for outdoor lovers, where dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a spirit of adventure converge. From the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps to lush rainforests and glacier-carved valleys, this journey offers a dynamic mix of hiking, paddling, and exploration.
We’ll hike iconic sections of the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Great Walks; trek to active glaciers on the stunning Rob Roy Track; and paddle serene lakes and coastal lagoons rich with marine life. A cruise through the awe-inspiring Milford Sound reveals towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, while quiet rainforest trails and rugged coastlines showcase the island’s untamed beauty.
Along the way, we’ll soak in natural hot springs, encounter unique wildlife, and connect with the vibrant culture and hidden gems that make this island unforgettable. This is more than a trip—it’s a true South Island adventure.
Maximum group size: 13
Highlights
- Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand on foot and kayak
- Cruise Milford Sound World-Heritage area to Tasman Sea
- Experience the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Great Walks
- Explore NZ’s stunning National Parks
- Trek the coastal beaches and rainforest of Paparoa National Park
- Admire the majesty of NZ’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook
- Hike the Rob Roy Track and get face to face with active glaciers
- Kayak the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka
- Stay in Aoraki Mt Cook Village and hike Hooker Valley and Tasman Glacier
- Free time to explore Queenstown, adventure capital of the world
Inclusions
- 1 - 2 local New Zealand guides and an AGC guide depending on group size
- 13 nights in twin/double room ensuite lodging (1 night on Fiordland cruise boat)
- All meals as described on the itinerary
- All transportation within New Zealand
- All entrance fees and activities as described in the itinerary
Not Included: Transportation to or from the Christchurch airport, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, meals not mentioned in itinerary, visa, and Travel Insurance.
Trip Info
This trip is designed for women in very good physical condition who enjoy hiking and other activities and want to explore New Zealand. Hiking is generally 2-5 hours on dirt trails, sandy beaches, rocky paths, and occasionally uneven footing. The kayaking is suitable for novices.
Level 2 trips are designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy active adventures. These trips are suitable for anyone who has a regular exercise routine that includes walking, biking, swimming or other aerobic activities for 20-40 minutes 3 to 4 times a week.
Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
This trip is designed as an exploration of the natural beauty and diversity of New Zealand's landscape, mountains, and waterways. We will be hiking 2-7 hours a day along and in New Zealand's mountains, beaches, rainforests and forests of southern New Zealand. We will kayak in a lagoon and on a lake.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
Our accommodations on this trip are in are in small hand-picked ensuite lodges or hotels. We'll spend 1 night in a cabin aboarda Fiordland cruise.
All participants are guaranteed their own bed. A limited number of single supplement rooms may be available for an additional cost and can be selected during booking if available.
See the FAQs below for more details about accommodation options.
Ready to picture yourself on this adventure?
Download the detailed trip summary for a closer look — daily highlights, travel notes, and everything you need to know before you go. It’s the perfect way to dream, plan, and share with a friend!
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Nau Mai Haere Mai ki Ōtautahi: Welcome to Christchurch!
Arrive in Christchurch and transfer at your leisure to the vibrant Drifter Christchurch, centrally located in the heart of the city. Our first group meeting is 4:00 PM in our hotel lobby, where we will get to get to know one another, and learn more about the adventure ahead. We’ll kick things off with Āmiki Tours Kai Safari—a cultural and culinary walking tour that will introduce us to the rich Māori heritage and flavors of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Along the way, we’ll sample an array of traditional and modern dishes, learning about indigenous ingredients and the deep connection between food and storytelling in Māori culture. This immersive (and delicious!) experience sets the perfect tone for our adventure.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Drifters Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Cultural walking tour
Arrive in Christchurch and transfer at your leisure to the vibrant Drifter Christchurch, centrally located in the heart of the city. Our first group meeting is 4:00 PM in our hotel lobby, where we will get to get to know one another, and learn more about the adventure ahead. We’ll kick things off with Āmiki Tours Kai Safari—a cultural and culinary walking tour that will introduce us to the rich Māori heritage and flavors of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Along the way, we’ll sample an array of traditional and modern dishes, learning about indigenous ingredients and the deep connection between food and storytelling in Māori culture. This immersive (and delicious!) experience sets the perfect tone for our adventure.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Drifters Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Cultural walking tour
DAY 2
We’ll get an early start this morning, heading west toward the rugged coastline. We’ll break the journey for lunch and the delightful Devil’s Punchbowl walk through beech forest, zigzagging up a series of steps to one of New Zealand’s most stunning waterfalls.
We’ll reach Punakaiki, a small community on the West Coast nestled on the edge of the Paparoa National Park, in late afternoon. There may be time to visit a nearby cavern and check out the glowworms that glow through bioluminescence, thereby enticing prey to the sticky silk threads they make which hang like fishing lines. Tonight, we settle in at Punakaiki Resort, just steps from the beach, where we’ll enjoy dinner together with the soothing sound of waves crashing in the background.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Punakaiki Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (1 hour)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~5 hours)
We’ll reach Punakaiki, a small community on the West Coast nestled on the edge of the Paparoa National Park, in late afternoon. There may be time to visit a nearby cavern and check out the glowworms that glow through bioluminescence, thereby enticing prey to the sticky silk threads they make which hang like fishing lines. Tonight, we settle in at Punakaiki Resort, just steps from the beach, where we’ll enjoy dinner together with the soothing sound of waves crashing in the background.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Punakaiki Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (1 hour)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~5 hours)
DAY 3
The boundaries of the Paparoa National Park were carefully established to encompass a complete range of landscapes and ecosystems running all the way inland from the coast to the rugged ice- carved Paparoa Ranges. This morning we’ll explore 2 of the Park’s highlights. We kick off our Paparoa National Park experience with a loop walk on one of Aotearoa New Zealand's famous 'Great Walks', the Paparoa Track. From the Punakaiki terminus we have a couple of options, both passing through the stunning Pororari River Gorge, before returning via the same way, or if time allows, through the Paparoa Track alternate terminus to create a loop. From there we’ll head to a limestone landscape of pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes and surge pools. The Pancake Rocks were formed 30 million years ago from minute fragments of dead marine creatures and plants landed on the seabed about 2 km below the surface. Immense water pressure caused the fragments to solidify in hard and soft layers. Gradually seismic action lifted the limestone above the seabed. Mildly acidic rain, wind and seawater sculpted the bizarre shapes. After lunch we embark on a scenic drive down the West Coast to the village of Franz Josef, a small but vibrant village nestled at the base of the Southern Alps. We’ll arrive in time for a wander - explore the town or take a relaxed walk along the nearby river.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Franz Josef (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-5 miles, ~800 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Franz Josef (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-5 miles, ~800 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
DAY 4
Today, we swap hiking boots for paddles as we explore the serene waters of Okarito Lagoon. Okarito is New Zealand’s largest unmodified estuarine lagoon - home to more than 70 bird species, including the beautiful kōtuku/white heron and royal spoonbills. The lagoon is surrounded by lush native rainforest, above which rise the towering snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. The area is an important feeding ground for thousands of wading birds and there’s a huge area of shallow open water and tidal flats perfect for sheltered water kayaking. Gliding along the kayak trail will bring us up close (but not too close) and personal with this amazing colony of birds.
After lunch we can either return to Franz Josef for a leisurely afternoon or stay in Okarito and hike to the Okarito Trig Viewpoint. This walk initially meanders through bush before crossing the estuary on a curving boardwalk and then winding gently uphill to the Trig. On a clear day, the view is unbeatable, overlooking Westland National Park from the snow-capped Southern Alps’ extensive native forest to the lagoons and beaches of the coast. Heading back to Franz Josef, we’ll have time to soak in the Waiho hot tubs before dinner– a treat for tired legs!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef (or similar)
Daily Activities: Kayaking (~3.5 hours), Optional Hike (~2.6 miles)
After lunch we can either return to Franz Josef for a leisurely afternoon or stay in Okarito and hike to the Okarito Trig Viewpoint. This walk initially meanders through bush before crossing the estuary on a curving boardwalk and then winding gently uphill to the Trig. On a clear day, the view is unbeatable, overlooking Westland National Park from the snow-capped Southern Alps’ extensive native forest to the lagoons and beaches of the coast. Heading back to Franz Josef, we’ll have time to soak in the Waiho hot tubs before dinner– a treat for tired legs!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef (or similar)
Daily Activities: Kayaking (~3.5 hours), Optional Hike (~2.6 miles)
DAY 5
Wake up to the fresh alpine air. The heart of Glacier Country, the Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, offer the most accessible rivers of ice in the world, plunging down through rainforest almost to sea level. This morning, depending on the weather, we’ll pick from one of several hikes in the area to showcase these spectacular ice formations, where towering seracs and deep crevasses make for a mesmerizing landscape.
We’ll experience one of the best scenic drives in New Zealand from the Glaciers to the Lakes. Tracking down the West Coast through the breath-taking Haast Pass, pausing to experience the Waiatoto River Safari jet. This route takes us from Ocean to the Alps within a UNESCO World Heritage Area, journeying into remote Haast backcountry that would take days to travel through on foot. We'll be awed by the majestic landscape and stunning scenery- rainforest and native bush, alpine tussock lands, lakes and mountains - this road showcases the best of South Island scenery all in one go. By evening, we arrive in Wānaka, where we’ll settle in for the next two nights.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort (or similar), Wānaka
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-6 miles)
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~5 hours)
We’ll experience one of the best scenic drives in New Zealand from the Glaciers to the Lakes. Tracking down the West Coast through the breath-taking Haast Pass, pausing to experience the Waiatoto River Safari jet. This route takes us from Ocean to the Alps within a UNESCO World Heritage Area, journeying into remote Haast backcountry that would take days to travel through on foot. We'll be awed by the majestic landscape and stunning scenery- rainforest and native bush, alpine tussock lands, lakes and mountains - this road showcases the best of South Island scenery all in one go. By evening, we arrive in Wānaka, where we’ll settle in for the next two nights.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort (or similar), Wānaka
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-6 miles)
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~5 hours)
DAY 6
Continuing with our glacier theme, today’s hike brings us face to face with active glaciers. The Rob Roy Glacier Track leads into Tititea / Mt. Aspiring National Park, an amazing world of mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes. Following the glacial-fed Matukituki River, we traverse a fairytale-like beech forest and cross dramatic suspension bridges before reaching a stunning alpine valley. At the viewpoint, we’ll soak in the sight of the hanging glacier clinging to the cliffs, with the occasional crack and rumble of falling ice echoing through the valley. Keep your eyes peeled for the cheeky kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, known for its playful and mischievous nature. After our return hike, enjoy a free evening in Wānaka, where you can explore lakeside restaurants and cozy wine bars at your own pace.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort (or similar), Wānaka
Daily Activities: Hike (6-7 miles, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive: (~2 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort (or similar), Wānaka
Daily Activities: Hike (6-7 miles, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive: (~2 hours)
DAY 7
We start the day with a paddle on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, surrounded by golden tussock fields and the snow-dusted peaks of the majestic Southern Alps. Lake Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s largest lakes, situated in a glacier carved basin making for an unforgettable kayaking adventure exploring the lakeshore.
After lunch, we set out on a spectacular drive over Crown Range Road, the highest sealed alpine pass in New Zealand, offering sweeping views of the Wakatipu Basin. We hug the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, Aotearoa New Zealand’s longest lake, to Kingston and then cross through several small farming settlements, before ending our journey in the township of Te Anau, a tranquil lakeside town and the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Distinction Te Anau (or similar)
Daily Activities: Kayaking (~4 hours)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
After lunch, we set out on a spectacular drive over Crown Range Road, the highest sealed alpine pass in New Zealand, offering sweeping views of the Wakatipu Basin. We hug the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, Aotearoa New Zealand’s longest lake, to Kingston and then cross through several small farming settlements, before ending our journey in the township of Te Anau, a tranquil lakeside town and the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Distinction Te Anau (or similar)
Daily Activities: Kayaking (~4 hours)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
DAY 8
Prepare for one of the most breathtaking experiences of the journey as we venture deep into Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its towering fjords, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. We’ll follow the scenic Milford Road, with awe-inspiring viewpoints along the way, including the Mirror Lakes, where the still waters perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains.
Reaching The Divide, we hike to Key Summit, a 3 hour return hike which forms part of the Routeburn Track, gives spectacular views of the Hollyford Valley and Humboldt and Earl mountain ranges. By mid-afternoon, we board our overnight cruise on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound. As the boat glides through the fjord, we’ll be dwarfed by sheer rock faces soaring 4,000 feet or more from the sea. At 5,551 feet, the iconic Mitre Peak is a spectacular sight and New Zealand’s most photographed mountain. In the heart of a rainforest, we’ll witness walls of temporary waterfalls. Glorious on a fine day, the ethereal, moody beauty in the rain is equally spectacular.
Be sure to keep an eye out for fur seals, penguins, and even bottlenose dolphins playing in the wake. After a delicious onboard dinner, relax under a starlit sky, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
The Milford Mariner is a purpose-built vessel designed to replicate a traditional trading scow and is perfect for cruising the fiord with private ensuite cabins, an onboard specialist nature guide, and delicious food prepared by the chef. While on board, guests can enjoy water activities such as kayaking or even taking a swim, conditions permitting, as well as a tender boat excursion that lets you experience the fiord from a different perspective. In the evening, the onboard nature guide gives a presentation, rounding out an unforgettable day before a restful night on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Milford Mariner (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~3 miles, ~1,250 feet elevation +/-), Kayaking Option
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~2.5 hours)
Reaching The Divide, we hike to Key Summit, a 3 hour return hike which forms part of the Routeburn Track, gives spectacular views of the Hollyford Valley and Humboldt and Earl mountain ranges. By mid-afternoon, we board our overnight cruise on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound. As the boat glides through the fjord, we’ll be dwarfed by sheer rock faces soaring 4,000 feet or more from the sea. At 5,551 feet, the iconic Mitre Peak is a spectacular sight and New Zealand’s most photographed mountain. In the heart of a rainforest, we’ll witness walls of temporary waterfalls. Glorious on a fine day, the ethereal, moody beauty in the rain is equally spectacular.
Be sure to keep an eye out for fur seals, penguins, and even bottlenose dolphins playing in the wake. After a delicious onboard dinner, relax under a starlit sky, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
The Milford Mariner is a purpose-built vessel designed to replicate a traditional trading scow and is perfect for cruising the fiord with private ensuite cabins, an onboard specialist nature guide, and delicious food prepared by the chef. While on board, guests can enjoy water activities such as kayaking or even taking a swim, conditions permitting, as well as a tender boat excursion that lets you experience the fiord from a different perspective. In the evening, the onboard nature guide gives a presentation, rounding out an unforgettable day before a restful night on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Milford Mariner (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~3 miles, ~1,250 feet elevation +/-), Kayaking Option
Travel Time Scenic Drive (~2.5 hours)
DAY 9
Wake up to the serene beauty of Milford Sound as mist swirls around the peaks and the first rays of sunlight illuminate Mitre Peak. After a leisurely breakfast on board, we disembark and resume our journey south. We’ll stop just beyond Te Anau to experience a delightful section of another of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Kepler Track. The easy-going track meanders along the terraces of the Waiau River through red and mountain beech forest to Rainbow Reach. In the afternoon, we continue to Queenstown, our home for the next two nights and where you'll have a well-earned rest day tomorrow.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Blue Peaks Lodge (or similar), Queenstown
Daily Activities: Hiking (5-6 miles, 150-300 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~4 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Blue Peaks Lodge (or similar), Queenstown
Daily Activities: Hiking (5-6 miles, 150-300 feet elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~4 hours)
DAY 10
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilization are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, sidewalk cafes, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. There is an endless variety of incredible optional activities here: kayaking, fishing, winery tours, horse trekking, a gondola, mountain biking, jet boating, as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere or lounge about reading a book. The guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for anything you want to do on your free day today.
Included Meals: No Meals Included Today
Accommodations: Blue Peaks Lodge (or similar), Queenstown
Daily Activities: Free Day!
Included Meals: No Meals Included Today
Accommodations: Blue Peaks Lodge (or similar), Queenstown
Daily Activities: Free Day!
DAY 11
Today, we venture into the breathtaking Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—a rugged land of ice and rock, home to 19 peaks soaring over 3,000 meters. It’s home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook– named Aoraki or ‘cloud piercer’ by South Island Māori.
Leaving Queenstown, we wind through the scenic Gibbston Valley wine region before entering the historic gold-mining district of the dramatic Kawarau River Gorge. Next, we pass through Cromwell, famous for its orchards, before following the shores of the serene Lake Dunstan towards the spectacular Lindis Pass. Crossing the pass, we enter the vast high-country landscape of the Mackenzie Basin, and from there, the final stretch leads us along the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village.
This afternoon, you’re free to walk in the park, visit the fascinating Edmund Hillary Centre, or explore the highly recommended DOC Centre. Save some energy—tomorrow promises an epic adventure!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hermitage Hotel Aoraki Mt Cook (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (1-2 hours)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
Leaving Queenstown, we wind through the scenic Gibbston Valley wine region before entering the historic gold-mining district of the dramatic Kawarau River Gorge. Next, we pass through Cromwell, famous for its orchards, before following the shores of the serene Lake Dunstan towards the spectacular Lindis Pass. Crossing the pass, we enter the vast high-country landscape of the Mackenzie Basin, and from there, the final stretch leads us along the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village.
This afternoon, you’re free to walk in the park, visit the fascinating Edmund Hillary Centre, or explore the highly recommended DOC Centre. Save some energy—tomorrow promises an epic adventure!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hermitage Hotel Aoraki Mt Cook (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (1-2 hours)
Travel Time: Scenic Drive (~3.5 hours)
DAY 12
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a dramatic wilderness of ice and rock, best experienced on foot. Today, we hit the trails to immerse ourselves in this awe-inspiring landscape. The Hooker Valley Track is a must-do, leading us through the stunning valley alongside the Hooker River, across three swing bridges, and all the way to the glacier lake. If the weather is kind, we’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Mueller Glacier, along with floating icebergs for that extra touch of magic.
For those craving a challenge, the Sealy Tarns hike—fondly known as the “Stairway to Heaven”—offers a heart-pumping 2,200-step ascent, with breathtaking panoramic views as your prize. And for the truly adventurous, a guided option to Mueller Hut may be available, depending on group enthusiasm and weather conditions.
Prefer a more relaxed day? No worries! You can explore shorter walks in the village at your own pace—your guide will happily recommend must-do trails and scenic spots.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hermitage Hotel Aoraki Mt Cook (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking 6-10 miles total: (Hooker Valley: (~6.2 miles, ~3hrs) & Sealy Tarns: (3-4 hrs, ~2,200 steps, ~985 feet elevation gain))
For those craving a challenge, the Sealy Tarns hike—fondly known as the “Stairway to Heaven”—offers a heart-pumping 2,200-step ascent, with breathtaking panoramic views as your prize. And for the truly adventurous, a guided option to Mueller Hut may be available, depending on group enthusiasm and weather conditions.
Prefer a more relaxed day? No worries! You can explore shorter walks in the village at your own pace—your guide will happily recommend must-do trails and scenic spots.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hermitage Hotel Aoraki Mt Cook (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking 6-10 miles total: (Hooker Valley: (~6.2 miles, ~3hrs) & Sealy Tarns: (3-4 hrs, ~2,200 steps, ~985 feet elevation gain))
DAY 13
Our journey back to Christchurch offers more great views as we head back down the shimmering shores of Lake Pukaki and continue through the MacKenzie Basin via Lake Tekapo to the charming country towns of Fairlie and Geraldine.
Along the way, we’ll take on the Mt. John Summit Track, one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking hikes. This rewarding trail winds through golden tussock fields, shaded pine forests, and exposed ridgelines, culminating in a stunning 360° panorama of Lake Tekapo’s brilliant turquoise waters, the Southern Alps, and the vast, untamed landscapes of the high country. At the summit, we’ll enjoy a scenic picnic lunch before making our descent and continuing across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, arriving in the late afternoon.
Tonight, we’ll gather for our farewell dinner at a local bistro, celebrating the past two weeks of adventure, discovery, and unforgettable landscapes.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Drifters Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
Along the way, we’ll take on the Mt. John Summit Track, one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking hikes. This rewarding trail winds through golden tussock fields, shaded pine forests, and exposed ridgelines, culminating in a stunning 360° panorama of Lake Tekapo’s brilliant turquoise waters, the Southern Alps, and the vast, untamed landscapes of the high country. At the summit, we’ll enjoy a scenic picnic lunch before making our descent and continuing across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, arriving in the late afternoon.
Tonight, we’ll gather for our farewell dinner at a local bistro, celebrating the past two weeks of adventure, discovery, and unforgettable landscapes.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Drifters Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 14
Time to say goodbye—or “Ka kite anō” (see you again)!
You will leave refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you'll have had in New Zealand! You may fly out at any time today.
You will leave refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you'll have had in New Zealand! You may fly out at any time today.
Reviews
4.7
(6 reviews)
5
(4)
4
(2)
3
(0)
2
(0)
1
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*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Peggy R.
1 month ago
This was another bucket list trip! New Zealand was more amazing than expected, especially the diverse climate zones - from tropical rain forests to coastal beaches to mountains and active glaciers. What a wonderful adventure!
Linda M.
1 month ago
The South Island won my heart as the most beautiful place on earth. The majesty of the Southern Alps, the wild west coast and Fiordlands, the friendliness and diversity of the people we encountered, the cleanliness everywhere we went, the commitment of NZ to conservation and protecting their native species....overall I was just wowed by the place. Adding in the overall excellent accommodations and food, just made for an excellent trip.
Patricia M.
1 month ago
Amazing sites visited, hotels were great, food was great and our guides were excellent.
Deborah K.
1 month ago
New Zealand is a really special place.
Wendy E.
1 month ago
Patricia G.
1 month ago
For me, the location was the most important factor. I had wanted to visit New Zealand for years.
Dates & Prices
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2027 |
February 15 to February 28 |
Available |
$10995.00 |
Year
2027
Departure Date
February 15 to February 28, 2027
Availability
Available
Price
$10995.00
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
All participants are guaranteed their own bed on our trips.
A Single Supplement (SS) means you will have your own room with your own bed, and no other participants will share that room with you. Single supplements are limited, offered at an additional cost, and will appear as a booking option at the time of registration if still available.
A Double Accommodation means you will share a room with another participant. You will still have your own bed. Shared beds can be requested but cannot always be accommodated depending upon the property.
Bathrooms: Bathroom arrangements vary depending on the trip and lodging. A single supplement guarantees your own sleeping space but may still include a shared bathroom. Double accommodations typically share a bathroom with a roommate and sometimes additional participants, depending on the property. Private or ensuite bathrooms will be noted in the trip details when available.
Tasty cafe breakfasts, gourmet picnic or cafe lunches, and restaurant dinners.
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian diets and assist with medically necessary dietary needs (allergies and intolerances). However, options may be limited in remote areas, and some alternatives may be unavailable.If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. We cannot guarantee a peanut-free or allergen-free trip. If you have severe or life-threatening allergies, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
The best time to explore New Zealand’s stunning outdoors is from November to April. The country has a maritime climate, meaning the weather can change quickly—so it’s best to be prepared! A good waterproof jacket and warm layers are must-haves.
In the South Island, summer temperatures range from 50–85°F with comfortable humidity (40–50%). Higher altitudes are much cooler, and snowfall can occur even in summer. The Southern Alps create distinct weather patterns, with the west side being wetter and the east side drier. Winds can also be hot, dry, and strong in summer. Expect highs up to 85°F and lows around 23°F in the mountains.
We’re doing our part to help the planet and encourage you to do the same! Please bring a reusable water bottle, and if you love coffee or tea, a reusable cup for take-away drinks. If you plan to shop, a small foldable bag can help cut down on plastic waste. Every little bit helps!
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