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Discover the depth of New Zealand's backcountry by hiking, biking and kayaking through the essence of South Island. In just 8 days uncover the best of South Island journeying through legendary icons Milford Sounds, Arthurs Pass, Franz Josef, Mt Aspiring and Routeburn Track.
Departing from Christchurch, immerse in an adventure of a lifetime where its iconic and remote wilderness is just as diverse as your activities. Experience the natural wonders of the Fiordland and enchanting Milford Sounds with an overnight cruise before gliding its pure waters on sea kayaks. Take it to where the sky is the limit with a scenic flight into the World Heritage Listed Mt Aspiring National Park, a dreamland of snowcapped mountains. Hike the hidden gem of Lake Crucible before an exhilarating jet boat adventure in ice ...
Departing from Christchurch, immerse in an adventure of a lifetime where its iconic and remote wilderness is just as diverse as your activities. Experience the natural wonders of the Fiordland and enchanting Milford Sounds with an overnight cruise before gliding its pure waters on sea kayaks. Take it to where the sky is the limit with a scenic flight into the World Heritage Listed Mt Aspiring National Park, a dreamland of snowcapped mountains. Hike the hidden gem of Lake Crucible before an exhilarating jet boat adventure in ice blue glacial rivers. Your walk will be just as diverse from the renowned Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s great walks, the legendary Arthur’s Pass to conquering mountain summits including Ben Lomond. From unforgettable wildlife encounters to glacial valleys and star-filled skies, South Island will keep you on your feet of bucket list adventures in all its forms. Hike mighty glaciers descending through the rainforest into the sea at Franz Josef Glacier and cycle a section of the Queenstown Bike Trail. Filled with surprises at every turn, it will ignite your imagination. Discover the Adventure Capital of Queenstown to your heart’s desire and at your own pace. Along the way, find your up-close moments with wildlife including seals, native birds and if you’re lucky dolphins, penguins and a migrating whale.
Unwind each adventure filled day in carefully handpicked rustic accommodations where each stay embraces the quiet sanctuaries of New Zealand’s most stunning settings. This adventure includes 7 night’s accommodation with meals included as specified. You will be supported by two guides posing unrivalled passion as they bring the trails to life, ensuring you are well fuelled and hydrated.
A perfect week escape for the adventure seekers embracing South Island’s treasures where some are legendary and others a well-kept secret. Embark on a true kiwi adventure of a lifetime ticking off all its top bucket list.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Hiking: approx. 2km, (1.2 miles), 1 hour walking, elevation +/- 100 meters (330 feet)
Departing Christchurch, your adventure to the depths of New Zealand’s backcountry journeys west through the picturesque vistas of Southern Alps to the small quaint village of Arthur’s Pass.
Begin with a short and gentle hike following the Devil’s Punchbowl Falls walk. Meander through lush beech forests and stride pass footbridges before climbing stairs to a viewing platform, giving staggering views of this spectacular waterfall. Feel the full force and sounds of fresh mountain water falling 131 metres down one of New Zealand’s most stunning waterfalls. A birdlife paradise, collide with friendly fantail, tomtit and watch out for cheeky Kea (the word’s only alpine parrot).
You’ll stay at a peaceful and secluded rainforest retreat set amongst lush native bush and nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier. Relax in modern and cosy styled cottages, unwind in the spa pool and sauna or simply relish in the tranquil bush setting. With friendly west coast hospitality, enjoy a glass of wine by its Monsoon Bar and Restaurant or cozy up on the cooler nights to its roaring fires.
Kayaking: 2-21/2 hours OR Heli-Hike on Franz Josef Glacier. Optional Heli-hike (additional cost applies)
Hiking: 1.5 kilometers (1 mile), 30 minutes, elevation +/- 20 meters (66 feet)
Immerse in a glacier wonderland and spend the day exploring the brilliant Franz Josef and Fox Glacier region. This morning we’ll take a short journey over to Okarito, a little-known beach community on the coast. We’ll take to the water in sea kayaks and glide along a picturesque lagoon, set against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Okarito is home to the only native white heron colony in New Zealand, as well as a host of other interesting birds. You can opt for the heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier instead of the kayaking if you wish (see information below).
Optional Heli-hike (additional cost applies): Take it to the extreme where the sky is the limit! For an additional cost, immerse on an outrageously unforgettable heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier itself! Hike on ice, a must do bucket list while here! Take flight on a turbine helicopter as you glide the highest peaks of Southern Alps and land on the glacier at 1300 metres. Led by glacier guides, enter into an ethereally winter wonderland, trekking through grand ice formations, marveling at crevasses, seracs and mystical tunnels. The constant movement of the glaciers means every day is different, no two trip is the same, a once-in-a-lifetime experience! The heli-hike is extremely popular and must be reserved at time of booking only. Please note also there is a weight limit of 115kg (250 pounds).
After our activities this morning we’ll regroup back in Franz Josef for some lunch before heading off to check out the glacier! Embark to the terminal face of a glacier and witness its descent down the mountain into the rainforest traversing sub-alpine scrub to picturesque alpine meadows. Go for a short walk out to a viewpoint of the Franz Josef Glacier. This afternoon we’ll travel down the coast along the Tasman Sea with a chance to walk the beach before heading over the divide of the island into Mount Aspiring National Park, ending our day in Makarora.
Journey to the peaceful and picturesque setting of Makarora, a small quaint village bordering the World Heritage Listed Mt Aspiring National Park. A dreamland of snowcapped mountains, enjoy cosy rooms with ensuite bathrooms in a secluded retreat boasting magnificent mountain and river views. Retire with a glass of wine out on the deck as you absorb the serenity of it all.
OPTION A: FLY AND HIKE SIBERIA VALLEY AND STAY AT A MOUNTAIN HUT
Approx. 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation +/- 550 meters (1,800 feet)
Kick start your morning on a scenic flight into the World Heritage Listed Mt Aspiring National Park, a dreamland of snowcapped mountains. Only from above can you truly appreciate the enormity of this ethereally beautiful landscape flying high amongst remote alpine valleys, beautiful mountain lakes, waterfalls and spectacular glaciers.
During your flight, you'll have the unique opportunity to land in a truly remote backcountry valley on a grass landing strip. Embark on a short walk to your mountain hut to lighten your backpack before taking challenge on a steep yet rewarding hike to the stunning Crucible Lake, a cauldron-like glacial lake. An ascent of 550 metres, traverse delicate alpine herb fields, beech forests, picturesque snow grass flats and stride river crossings. Revel at sweeping panoramic views of glaciated Mt Alba and a beautiful stream at its bottom. Perched high atop the summit, be rewarded with the moraine-bound Crucible Lake, a spectacular hidden gem. Be captivated by the majestic sight of falling ice from glaciers fed by waterfalls streaming down to the crystalline lake.
You’ll stay at a remote mountain hut, immersing in a true Kiwi experience. Tucked within the Siberia Valley, cosy into a serviced 20-bunk hut in a shared alpine cabin. Enjoy the simple basic facilities of heating, mattresses and non-flush toilets. Utterly remote, you’ll feel connected to the breathtaking surrounding alpine vistas from your doorstep.
OPTION B: FLY, HIKE SIBERIA VALLEY AND JETBOAT WILKIN RIVER
Approx. 6.6 kilometers or 10.5 kilometers (4.1 or 6.5 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +140 meters (460 feet) / - 320 meters (1,050 feet)
Those that prefer a more luxurious and modern stay can forego the mountain hut with an equally thrilling adventure.
Embark on a relaxed walk amongst the vivid blue of Wilkin River through picturesque silver beech forests to a unique and thrilling jetboat rendezvous. Speed down icy braided rivers of the mighty Wilkin and Makarora Rivers. Be captivated at strikingly glacial blue rivers and spectacular ice capped mountains surrounding you. Absorb the remote New Zealand wilderness before arriving back in Makarora.
Tonight, indulge in a hearty dinner showcasing fresh backcountry delights paired with a well-earned drink at a local restaurant.
OPTION A MORNING: JET BOAT SIBERIA VALLEY
Hiking: 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation + 140 meters (460 feet) / - 320 meters (1,050 feet)
Start your day with a hike down the valley journeying an old pack track high above Siberia River to Kerin Folks. A gentle downhill walk journeying through river crossings, lush native bush with spectacular views of surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
Your experience culminates on a rendezvous at the Wilkin River for a thrilling and uniquely scenic jet boat adventure. Speed down icy braided rivers of the mighty Wilkin and Makarora Rivers. Be captivated at strikingly glacial blue rivers and spectacular ice capped mountains surrounding you. Absorb the remote New Zealand wilderness before arriving back in Makarora.
OPTION B MORNING: EXPLORE HAAST PASS AND PRISTINE BLUE POOLS
Hiking: Haast Pass Hike: 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles), 1 hour return, elevation +/- 107 meters (351 feet)
Hiking: Blue Pools Hike: 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), 1 hour return, elevation +/- 54 meters (177 feet)
This morning, immerse to a relaxing sleep in and spend your morning soaking up the mountain view of this magnificent natural wonderland. Or delve deeper into the tracks of the renowned Mt Aspiring National Park.
Begin with a gentle walk climbing 150 metres in elevation through beech forests to a viewpoint above the trees, giving spectacular views of Mt Aspiring and the breathtaking Southern Alps.
Continue your moments of tranquility wandering through quaint beech forests and over swing bridges to the natural wonders of pure glacial water of the Makarora’s pristine Blue Pools. Revel at the unveiling spectacular views up the river gorge. Keep a look out for large trout feeding in the pools and listen for the threatened yellowhead birds chirping above the canopies.
AFTERNOON (FOR BOTH OPTIONS): BIKE QUEENSTOWN TRAIL
Approx. .5-13 kilometers (4.6-8.1 miles), 1-2 hour, elevation +/- 127 meters (416 feet)
Come afternoon, unite with the rest of your comrades, enjoy a convivial picnic lunch sharing your adventures together. Admire the scenery unfold dramatically to the stunning mountain and lakeside settings of Wanaka before a beautiful scenic drive on the highest main road in New Zealand. Meander through the opulent Cardrona Valley and into Queenstown, known as the Adventure Capital of the World.
Take a short yet exhilarating biking adventure on the Queenstown Bike Trail, winding amongst the sparkling Arrow River to the delightful goldrush town, Arrowtown. A river of many moods, admire its sometimes tranquil state to often rushing over rocks and bluffs. Along the trail, there are no shortages to stop and take a moment to soak in the serene alpine vistas. Explore its heritage main street of a charming tree-lined avenue of tiny miner’s cottages, house shops, galleries and restaurants- not one from an international chain.
You’ll stay at a luxurious and lakefront hotel set in the heart of Queenstown, sitting on the shore of the stunning Lake Wakatipu. Relax in contemporary designed rooms with ensuite bathrooms and private balconies boasting powerful landscapes and inspiring mountain and lake views. Indulge in local delights at the onsite restaurant and bar or simply escape with a glass of locally renowned Central Otago Pinot Noir out on deck in the comfort of your own company.
Hiking Ben Lomond: Approx. 8 kilometers (5 miles), 4-5 hours, elevation +/- 978 meters (3,208 feet)
Today do as much or as little as you please. Immerse in a full day hike conquering the summit of Ben Lomond or explore the adventure capital of Queenstown at your own pace.
Begin the Ben Lomond walking track with a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak, a climb of 450 metres above Queenstown. Take challenge on a rewarding yet steep hike to its towering summit, an ascent of 1748 metres. Traverse alpine tussocks and shrubs before being rewarded with exceptional panoramic views from the summit of Lake Wakitipu and the Queenstown Basin. A perfect time to ponder the beauty and isolation of its grandeur.
Alternatively, enjoy a free day exploring to your heart’s desire. Queenstown is a hub for adventure, thrumming with adrenaline and omnipresent sense of fun. With a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, it is home of the ultimate adventure bucket list! For the adrenaline junkies go bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, hang gliding, kayaking, jet boating, horse trekking, heli-biking and river rafting immersing into Queenstown’s natural beauty in all its glory. For more mellow experiences pamper for a day spa, treat on boutique shopping and tantalize the tastebuds on exquisite food and wine tastings. Or, simply soak up the atmosphere at stylish cafes and bars by the lakeside.
Your guides are at your disposal to help you explore this pristine and ethereally beautiful location.
Hiking: 9.5 kilometers (6 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 50 meters (165 feet)
Leaving behind the towering Remarkables and head west to the small town of Te Anau - the gateway to Milford Sound. Embark on the renowned Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s great walks.
Follow the track through mountain beech forest and along the Waiau River. It’s an awesome hike with spectacular views! Tonight we’ll stay on the edge of Lake Te Anau, enjoying the scenery and the delicious local fare.
Hiking: approx. 6.8 kilometers (4.5 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 380 meters (1,246 feet)
Today is another day to be blown away! Enter the magnificent World Heritage Listed, Fiordland National Park, famous for its soaring mountain peaks, huge valleys, cascading waterfalls and jewel-like lakes. Delve deeper into the Fiordland wilderness onboard a Milford Scenic Cruise.
Drive through the iconic Homer Tunnel for an unforgettable descent to the shores of the mighty Milford Sound. A moment in time that will leave you in awe! Famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Be captivated by New Zealand’s wild side at its best with plunging cliffs and mountain peaks scraping the sky while raging waterfalls as high as 1000 metres cascade into inky dark waters. Truly remarkable!
Indulge in a hearty breakfast amongst your final moments soaking the serenity of New Zealand’s majestic alpine wilderness.
All good things come to an end. Feeling relaxed, inspired and invigorated, journey back to Queenstown as you depart with unforgettable memories that will make you wanting to come back for more.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for group bookings and private departures.
- The departure point is Christchurch
- The finish point is Queenstown
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Christchurch and Queenstown
New Zealand’s maritime climate makes November to April the most ideal months for travelling to the country.
The South Island’s temperature during summer ranges from 1030 ºC, with a pleasant 40 50% humidity. However, the country’s mountainous terrain and position in the path of the ‘Roaring 40s’ means its weather changes frequently, sometimes unexpectedly. Higher altitudes are always considerably cooler, and snowfall is not uncommon, even in summer. Ergo, you should ensure you have a good waterproof jacket and warm clothing.
- Arrival: If you’re flying in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Christchurch before 9am. A pick up from the Rydes Latimer Square in Christchurch at 9.30am or at Christchurch airport (CHC) in front of the Help Desk (near door 7) at 10am.
- Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Queenstown after 12pm Sunday. If you’re considering alternative flight times, please check with us. A drop off anywhere in Queenstown can also be arranged around midday.
- Single Supplement: With accommodation, the trip fares are based on a twin-share basis rate, which means we will match you up with another person of the same gender to share a room. If there is no one suitable, there is no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own room, you can opt to pay the additional single supplement fee.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.