Day of Coastal Serenity & Glacier Views

Morning: Okarito Lagoon Discovery Begin your day in the hidden gem of Okarito, where you’ll paddle serene waters against a backdrop of snow-dusted peaks. Glide through New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland, keeping watch for the rare Kotuku (white heron) and other native birds in this pristine sanctuary.

Afternoon: Glacier Country Exploration After lunch in Franz Josef, witness one of nature’s most impressive spectacles – massive rivers of ice carving their way through ancient rainforests. Experience the unique phenomenon of Franz Josef Glacier, one of only two glaciers in the world descending into temperate rainforest at such a low altitude (250 meters/820 feet).

Evening: Mountain Village Retreat Journey south through dense West Coast forest and over the Southern Alps divide to reach the charming mountain hamlet of Makarora. Here, surrounded by peaks and valleys, settle in at the Wonderland Lodge for a well-earned dinner featuring local flavors.

Activity Details:

• Kayaking: 1.5-2 hours on Okarito Lagoon
• Hiking: 1 mile (1.7 km), 30-60 minutes
• Elevation Change: 66 feet (20 meters) ascent and descent

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Wonderland Lodge, Makarora

You’ll embark on an unforgettable scenic flight over Mt. Aspiring National Park, soaring above the lower Southern Alps before landing in the remote Siberia Valley. After crossing the Wilkin River, you can relax at the Siberia Hut or walk upstream to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views.

After lunch, you’ll hike downstream along the Wilkin River, winding through serene silver beech forests before meeting your jet boat for an exhilarating ride back to Makarora. Enjoy a well-earned dinner and perhaps a drink at the local pub.

Accommodation: Wonderland Lodge, Makarora

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 4.1 miles (6.6 km), 2–3 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss: 460 ft (140 m) ascent, 1,050 ft (320 m) descent

Journey with us through the heart of the Southern Alps, beginning with a morning hike to Haast Pass Lookout. This enchanting trail weaves through ancient native forests, revealing panoramic vistas of towering peaks and pristine valleys. If you prefer a gentler start, unwind and savor the mountain views from our accommodation.

After a scenic picnic lunch, we embark on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular drives. Watch as the landscape transforms dramatically from dense beech forests to striking semi-arid mountains, all sculpted by ancient glaciers.

Arriving at Lake Hawea, you’ll swap four wheels for two, taking your e-bike for an unforgettable ride along the Hawea River Trail. This picturesque track meanders alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Hawea and Clutha Rivers, immersing you in Central Otago’s rugged beauty before reaching the charming lakeside haven of Wanaka.

Following a brief stop in Wanaka, we’ll traverse the dramatic Cardrona Saddle to reach Queenstown, where the majestic Lake Wakatipu awaits. Your day concludes in this vibrant alpine resort, with sweet dreams guaranteed at the Heritage Hotel.

Today’s Details:

• Accommodation: Heritage Hotel, Queenstown
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included
• Hiking: Haast Pass Lookout (1.5km/0.93 miles return)
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Elevation: 150m/492ft ascent and descent
• Cycling: Hawea River Trail (29km/18 miles)
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Elevation: 115m/370ft ascent, 160m/524ft descent

Today presents two distinct paths: challenge yourself with an exhilarating alpine ascent or immerse yourself in Queenstown’s endless attractions.

For the hiking enthusiasts, your alpine journey begins at 8:30 am in downtown Queenstown. We’ll start with a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak, elevating us 450 meters (1,476 feet) above the town. From here, our Ben Lomond Track adventure unfolds through stunning alpine tussocklands toward the summit. At the peak, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of Queenstown, the serpentine Lake Wakatipu, and the commanding presence of surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mt. Aspiring.

Prefer to set your own pace? Queenstown – New Zealand’s adventure capital – awaits with its rich tapestry of experiences. This vibrant alpine resort packs endless possibilities into its compact center: from sophisticated dining and boutique shopping to endless adrenaline-fueled activities. Consider soaring through the skies hang gliding, discovering hidden coves by kayak, exploring world-class wine regions, or tackling mountain bike trails. For those seeking thrills, the birthplace of bungy jumping beckons, along with jet boat rides and skydiving adventures. Or simply unwind at a lakeside café, indulge in a spa treatment, or find a quiet spot to take in the spectacular mountain views.

Your guides are always happy to share local insights and hidden gems, ensuring you make the most of your free day.

Today’s Details:

• Accommodation: Heritage Hotel, Queenstown
• Meals: No meals included
  • Ben Lomond Track:Distance: 8km (5 miles)
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Elevation: 978m (3,208ft) ascent and descent
  • Starting Point: Queenstown Gondola at 8:30 am

This morning, we’ll journey around the shores of Lake Wakatipu, leaving the towering Remarkables behind as we head west to the charming lakeside town of Te Anau—the gateway to Milford Sound.

In the afternoon, we’ll hike a scenic section of the renowned Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Following the trail through lush mountain beech forests and alongside the picturesque Waiau River, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views at every turn.

Tonight, we’ll unwind on the edge of Lake Te Anau, soaking in the stunning surroundings and indulging in delicious local cuisine.

Accommodation: Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 6 miles (9.5 km), 2–3 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss: 165 ft (50 m) ascent, 165 ft (50 m) descent

We’ll get an early start this morning as we set off for Fiordland, New Zealand’s largest and most spectacular national park. A scenic drive takes us through the dramatic Homer Tunnel, emerging at the top of a breathtaking glacier-carved valley before descending to the shores of Milford Sound.

Rudyard Kipling called this fiord the “eighth wonder of the world,” and it’s easy to see why—sheer granite cliffs rise over a thousand meters from the deep, inky waters, with waterfalls tumbling down their rugged faces.

We’ll board the first cruise of the day, enjoying the tranquility as we glide through the fiord, marveling at towering rock walls and cascading falls. If we’re lucky, we may spot friendly fur seals and playful dolphins along the way.

After the cruise, we’ll stretch our legs with a rewarding hike to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn Track. From this spectacular vantage point, panoramic views stretch across the alpine wilderness, and we might even encounter New Zealand’s mischievous and intelligent alpine parrot, the kea.

After our adventure, we’ll return to Te Anau for our final night on the shores of Lake Te Anau, celebrating our journey with a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cruise: 2 hours

Hiking: 4.2 miles (6.8 km), 3–4 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,540 ft (470 m) ascent, 1,540 ft (470 m) descent

After breakfast, we’ll make our way back to Queenstown, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure. After an exhilarating week of exploration, you’ll leave with incredible memories—energized, yet refreshed and ready for your next journey.

Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast