New Zealand Hiking Trip journey into the heart of The Southern Alps to discover the best of the South Island. Actively experience some of Aotearoa’s most awe-inspiring and pristine landscapes. This guided hiking trip takes in the most breathtaking scenery and incredible activities from the Canterbury foothills to the dramatic mighty granite peaks of Fiordland, we have created this shorter experience for people looking to get a real great taste of The South Island in a short amount of time. Your Southern Alps Discovery begins with an introduction to your Yoho guides who will lead your active journey through New Zealand’s diverse landscapes with style and race taking care of the super fine details that make this New Zealand hiking trip one of the best . You will explore heavily glaciated mountain ranges, ancient rainforests, crystal clear blue lakes, and native fern forests and even private high country that many seldom get to explore.

New Zealand Hiking Trip | The Southern Alps Discovery

You will also enjoy the best challenging day hikes with rewarding alpine vistas along with kayaking through the dramatic fiords of Milford Sound. And at the end of the day, you will find yourself relaxing with the most delicious Central Otago fine Pinot Noir. Combined with unique charm, remote lodging, and delicious Kiwi-flare cuisine, this unique adventure will have you experiencing Kiwiana at its very best. This is our uniquely inspiring adventure experience to one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

Southern Alps Discovery Brief Itinerary Outline

Day 1 – Southern Alps Discovery

Christchurch Arrivals | Hike Lake Tekapo | Explore the Mackenzie Country

First, following your arrival in Christchurch, you will journey south through the Canterbury Plains to the picturesque Mackenzie Country. While there, the group enjoys a day hike and exploration around Lake Tekapo. Finally, rest and relax overnight on unique High Country Station.

Accommodation: Remote Lodge and, Lake Pukaiki L, D

Day 2 – Southern Alps Discovery

Hike Mt. Cook National Park

Next, on our agenda, you will travel to Mt Cook National Park. While there, you will enjoy a full day hike to Hooker Lake or Mt Sebastopol. Resulting from the heavily glaciated peaks, Mt Cook National Park provides the most astounding views. Most noteworthy is Tasman Glacial Lake and nearby lookouts. Finally, when we have finished our exploration of this area, we will travel south over Lindis Pass to the beautiful lakeside township of Wanaka.

Accommodation: Wanaka B&B | Lake Wanaka B, L

Day 3 – Southern Alps Discovery

Hike Aspiring National Park | Central Otago Wine Tastings

On our third day, we rise to the beauty of Lake Wanaka and refuel with a nice breakfast before heading into the heart of Aspiring National Park. Consequently, we will engage in a day hike to Rob Roy Glacier. Finally, we are southward bound again the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown, via the most noteworthy Central Otago’s Pinot Noir growing vineyards.

Accommodation: Queenstown Hotel | Queenstown B, L

Day 4 – Southern Alps Discovery

Hike Lake Marian | Fiordland National Park

Our fourth day begins with another early rise in order to head into New Zealand’s most incredible scenery found in Fiordland National Park. Unlike previous days, we adjust our bearings and head southwest today. Our destination is Lake Te Anau. This is a favorite day hike due to its hanging valley. Plus it offers views of Lake Marian and the Darren Mountains. While there, we will stay the night in a remote set of backcountry cabins found in the lower Hollyford Valley.

Accommodation: Gunns Camp | Hollyford Valley B, L, D

Day 5 – Southern Alps Discovery

Kayak Milford Sound | Hike Gertrude Valley Fiordland National Park

And day five gets us another early rise because we don’t want to miss a minute of beauty! Today we’ll head to the mighty Milford Sound. While visiting this incredible location, you have a memorable morning kayak through the giant granite peaks that rise out of the ocean. Maybe we’ll get lucky and penguins, dolphins or fur seals will tag along. The afternoon finds us hiking up to Gertrude Saddle. You will want to pause often during this spectacular hike due to the grandiose views down the Cleddau Valley and Milford Sound.

Accommodation: Te Anau Lodge | Lake Te Anau B, L, D

Day 6 – Southern Alps Discover

Final Day | Travel To Queenstown

Finally, day six has arrived and our Southern Alps Discovery is coming to a conclusion. We enjoy a leisurely morning on the shores of Lake Te Anau before heading back to Queenstown. The trip will conclude in the mid-afternoon, allowing our guests to appreciate the many activities offered in Queenstown. Or, perhaps you might prefer taking some time to relax after our inspiring adventure together. Whatever seems like the most memorable ending for your journey is the ending we recommend most of all.