Ultimate South Island Hiking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Christchurch!

Arrive in Christchurch today by air, bus, or car and check into your hotel. At 6 PM, meet your guide and fellow travelers in the lobby for a tour briefing. Afterward, head out with your group to explore the town and grab dinner before settling in for the night.
Overnight Location: Drifter Hotel, Christchurch
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Castle Hill & Arthurs Pass Trail Walks

Today, departure from Christchurch marks the beginning of a journey toward the wild West Coast—where adventure awaits! First stop is the surreal landscape of Castle Hill Rocks (Kura Tawhiti), a sacred Māori site where massive limestone formations rise like ancient sentinels. Wander through this natural maze and soak in sweeping views toward Arthur’s Pass. The route then winds through the dramatic Southern Alps, crossing the Alpine Fault into a land transformed—grassy plains shift to towering peaks and dense, misty rainforest. A short hike leads to a hidden waterfall, surrounded by lush forest that feels lifted from Jurassic Park.

By late afternoon, arrival in Punakaiki, famed for its unique Pancake Rocks, signals the end of a thrilling day. After settling into cabins, the evening wraps up with a group dinner and a toast to the adventure ahead.
Overnight Location: Punakaiki Beach Camp, Punakaiki
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Discover the Magic of the Wild West Coast

A full day to explore the wild beauty of the West Coast, packed with iconic sights and epic walks awaits! The morning kicks off with a hike along the Pororari River Loop Track, winding through a dramatic limestone gorge carved by centuries of rushing water. Towering cliffs, deep emerald pools, and lush subtropical forest create a landscape bursting with life—look up to catch sunlight filtering through the vibrant canopy, and down to marvel at massive boulders scattered along the riverbed like ancient relics.

In the afternoon, choose between two unforgettable adventures: join ayour guide for a walk to the surreal Pancake Rocks, where layered limestone stacks defy logic and waves thunder through blowholes, or explore Punakaiki Cavern, where geological secrets lie beneath the surface. For a deeper underground thrill, opt for the Underworld Adventures glow worm cave tour—a journey through a hidden world of glittering glow worms, cathedral-like caverns, and even tubing along an underground river that winds out into a rainforest valley. Whether staying above ground or heading deep below, this day is all about discovering the raw magic of the West Coast.
Overnight Location: Punakaiki Beach Camp, Punakaiki
Distance: 3-4 hours, 11 km, 290 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Tracing the Pathways of the Ancestral Māori

Today’s journey heads south toward Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, with adventure and discovery along the way. First stop is Pounamu Pathways, where interactive displays bring the rich history of Aotearoa to life. Trace the journeys of ancestral Māori across the Pacific and feel the deep cultural connection between people and land through stories of exploration, guardianship, and resilience.

In the afternoon, step high into the canopy at the West Coast Tree Top Walk. Elevated 20–40 meters above the forest floor, this walkway offers rare views of coastal temperate rainforest from above. For those craving a thrill, the zipline adds an adrenaline rush—soar half a kilometer through towering trees on an unforgettable ride. If time allows, finish the day with a scenic stop at Hokitika Gorge. Walk along turquoise waters, cross a swing bridge suspended over the dramatic chasm, and soak in views straight from a postcard.
Overnight Location: Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Hotel
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Free Day

Enjoy a free day to explore the stunning Franz Josef or Fox Glacier region—an ideal break in the journey, and a chance for the guide to rest as required by New Zealand’s professional standards.

Take full advantage of this flexible day! Choose from thrilling options like helicopter flights to remote glaciers, scenic boat cruises, or an ATV adventure through wild terrain. Prefer a slower pace? Wander local trails, soak in the natural beauty, or simply relax and recharge in the shadow of the Southern Alps. Adventure or rest—the day is wide open.
Overnight Location: Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Hotel
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Explore Mount Aspiring National Park

Leave the wild West Coast behind and journey into Otago, where the Southern Alps rise in dramatic fashion. Travel through Haast Pass, with stops for short walks to waterfalls, hidden viewpoints, and quiet corners of Mount Aspiring National Park—a landscape shaped by glaciers, rivers, and time.

Arrive in Wanaka, a charming alpine town nestled beside a glacial lake. After settling in, gather for dinner in the heart of this laid-back mountain hub. Evening brings options: stroll along the lake to see the iconic Wanaka Tree, or, if time allows, hike up Iron Mountain for panoramic sunset views. A perfect end to a day of discovery, wrapped in mountain air and alpine calm.
Overnight Location: Te Wanaka Lodge, Wānaka
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Hike the Roby Roy Glacier Track

Today the group ventures deep into the soaring peaks and lush valleys of Mount Aspiring National Park for a hike on the spectacular Rob Roy Glacier Track. The journey begins with a scenic drive along Lake Wanaka, past rolling farmland and countless sheep scattered across wide alpine valleys. From the trailhead, follow a glacial river through dense forest and across a dramatic suspension bridge with sweeping mountain views. Climb steadily and be rewarded with the roar of a towering waterfall, misting into the air before it touches the ground. Around the final bend, Rob Roy Glacier reveals itself—an immense icefall clinging to a sheer rock face, with dozens of waterfalls tumbling from its edge. A scene of raw beauty, and easily one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking spots.

Return to Wanaka for a relaxed afternoon. Stroll the lakeshore, kick back in the sun, or rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle on crystal-clear waters.
Overnight Location: Te Wanaka Lodge, Wānaka
Distance: 3 hours, 10.5 km, 480 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Fiordland National Park

Journey south through Crown Pass and Queenstown en route to Te Anau and the wild wonders of Fiordland National Park! Spend the afternoon hiking a scenic section of the famed Kepler Track, from Rainbow Reach to Shallow Bay on Lake Manapouri. Cross a suspension bridge and wander through vibrant beech forest—an enchanting landscape that inspired the living trees of Fangorn Forest in Lord of the Rings. Today, step into that magic: embrace ancient woods, capture stunning photos, and soak in a trail steeped in natural beauty and legend.
Overnight Location: Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
Distance: 3 hours, 12 km, 270 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 Drive to Milford Sound

Today delivers a quintessential New Zealand adventure and a true bucket-list experience! Drive through Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound and set out on a cruise through some of the world’s most stunning fiords. Countless waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs, often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating an air of mystery. The cruise sails close to the largest falls, where spray sweeps across the boat, filling the air with fresh, crisp ocean breeze—some of the cleanest air on Earth.

After snapping endless photos, return through Fiordland with stops at scenic viewpoints. Embark on the Key Summit Track, part of the famous Routeburn Track, for a gentle hike through rainforest to alpine vistas. Marvel at glacier-carved peaks stretching endlessly, with Lake Marian nestled below and vast valleys opening toward the ocean. This hike lives up to its reputation as one of New Zealand’s finest.
Overnight Location: Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
Distance: 3-4 hours, 8 km, 500 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 Welcome to Queenstown

The group departs Te Anau this morning for the stunning drive along Lake Wakatipu toward vibrant Queenstown. Spend the afternoon soaring above the town and the Remarkables mountain range aboard the Skyline Gondola—offering breathtaking panoramic views of this adventure capital. From the summit, choose to embark on a self-guided hike along the Ben Lomond Track. Clear directions make the trail accessible, leading to a saddle with sweeping views north and south.

For those feeling adventurous, continue to the summit for world-class vistas of the lake, town, and thousands of surrounding peaks. The final stretch is steep and a bit technical but manageable at a steady pace, with the option to turn back anytime. In the evening, dive into Queenstown’s lively dining scene and nightlife for a perfect end to an epic day.
Overnight Location: Garden Court Suites, Queenstown
Distance: 2-4 hours, 10 km, 1,000 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 Experience Ultimate Adventure in Queenstown

A full day for the ultimate New Zealand adventure! This is the moment and the place to dive in and explore Queenstown at your own pace, where thrilling day tours mix with world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Feel the rush on a high-speed jet boat ride down a nearby river or unwind with a scenic BBQ cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu. Choose from river rafting, skydiving, or countless other adrenaline-packed activities today. No matter the adventure, expect epic stories and unforgettable photos to share over dinner.
Overnight Location: Garden Court Suites, Queenstown
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 Hike in Mount Cook National Park

The final full day of adventure leads from Queenstown to Mount Cook National Park, where some of New Zealand’s highest peaks await. Famous views of Lake Pukaki stretch out, with emerald waters reflecting Mount Cook and vibrant lupins lining the shore.

Drive close to the mountain’s base and begin the Hooker Valley hike, greeted instantly by breathtaking postcard-worthy scenes. The trail is mostly flat, allowing full focus on soaring peaks and stunning landscapes. Cross several suspension bridges over glacial rivers and walk alongside sheer mountain walls until reaching Hooker Lake, a perfect spot to pause, snap photos, and soak in the beauty.

After returning to the van, take a short walk to Tasman Lake, where floating icebergs drift on turquoise waters, remnants of the rapidly receding Tasman Glacier. The raw power of nature is evident in every corner of this dramatic landscape.

Travel next to Tekapo Lake for the night, nestled within the renowned Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve—one of the world’s best places for stargazing. Cap off the day with a soak in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, relaxing under a dazzling celestial display. A perfect way to reflect on an epic New Zealand journey!
Overnight Location: Godley Hotel, Lake Tekapo
Distance: 3 hours, 11 km, 200 m of ascent/descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 Return to Christchurch and End of Tour

Today’s journey returns to Christchurch where your ultimate South Island adventure comes to an end, with scenic viewpoints scattered along the way.

A highlight stop is Fairlie Bakehouse, famous for world-class pies. Try the rich salmon, savory pork & apple, or the classic Kiwi favorite—lamb & mint. (Sampling all three? Absolutely encouraged!)

Drop off in Christchurch is between 2 and 4 pm today.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast