New Zealand South Island: 4-Day Scenic Tour

Explore New Zealand’s South Island on a 3-day tour from Queenstown to Christchurch. Marvel at Mount Cook, Milford Sound, and Arthur’s Pass. Book now!

Duration: 4 days
Cancellation: 3 days learn more
Highlights

Queenstown - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Queenstown - Begin your tour in style! Your adventure kicks off with a convenient hotel or airport pickup in Queenstown.

Milford Sound - Relish the scenic drive to Milford Sound, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of mountains and valleys. Make the most of scenic photo stops like Eglinton Flats, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford Valley Lookout, Falls Creek, and Monkey Creek to capture the landscape’s beauty. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to witness the fiord’s breathtaking beauty up close. Be amazed by the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. After the cruise, head back to Te Anau, enjoying the scenic drive through Fiordland National Park’s rugged landscapes.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Once back in Te Anau, check into your hotel, refresh, and get ready for the renowned Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and be enchanted by thousands of glowworms lighting up the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and found only in the country’s caves. They create a magical display with their soft blue-green light. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience. End your day full of beautiful memories as you are dropped back at your hotel.

Te Anau - Queenstown - Queenstown Explore

Te Anau - Start your lovely day in Te Anau with a hotel pickup. Enjoy the scenic drive to Queenstown.

Queenstown - Visit the famous Queenstown Gardens, located on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views. After exploring the gardens, take a leisurely stroll through central Queenstown’s streets to soak in the city’s cheerful vibes. Relax by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s longest lake. After this moment of calm, prepare for an adrenaline rush as you jet boat down the Kawarau or Shotover River, reaching speeds of up to 95 kmph with multiple 360-degree spins.

Skyline Queenstown - After jet boating, there’s more to enjoy. Ride the Queenstown Gondola, considered the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. At the top, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Walter and Cecil Peak, and Queenstown itself. Spend quality time exploring the area or engaging in fun activities like thrilling luge rides and open-air chairlifts. Watch the sunset from this vantage point. Afterwards, take the Gondola back down, where you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel to relax and recharge for another epic day exploring Mount Cook.

Queenstown - Lindis Pass - Lake Pukaki - Aoraki Mount Cook (Hooker Valley and/or Tasman Glacier View Track) -Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki - Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at this natural wonder’s beauty as you take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

Aoraki/Mt. Cook - The drive to Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Either hike the famous Hooker Valley Track and/or Tasman Glacier View Track to soak up the area’s wild beauty or engage in other activities like a helicopter ride, depending on weather conditions. Look out for the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot. Continue driving to Lake Tekapo.

Lake Tekapo - Upon arrival at Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the universe’s beauty.

Lake Tekapo - Castle Hill - Arthur’s Pass National Park - Otira Viaduct Lookout - TranzAlpine Train – Christchurch

Lake Tekapo - Start your day with a hotel pickup in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.

Lake Lyndon - Take a break at Lake Lyndon as you drive to Arthur’s Pass. This picturesque lake offers a serene setting to stretch your legs and take in the surrounding natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing to Arthur’s Pass.

Castle Hill - Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk.

Arthur’s Pass National Park - Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Otira Viaduct Lookout - Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

TranzAlpine Train - Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train at Arthur’s Pass Station for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Christchurch Railway Station, where you will be picked up. Our enchanting journey concludes as we bid you farewell at your preferred location in Christchurch.

What's Included
  • Guide-driver exclusively for your group
  • Private transportation
  • On-board WiFi
  • Packaged snacks & chocolates
  • Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
  • Entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing, Glowworm Caves & Milford Sound Cruise (optional)
  • Packaged water bottles
  • Alternatives provided if an included activity is canceled or unavailable (optional)
What's Not Included
  • Food & Drinks (except 3 x breakfast with “With Hotels & Entry Tickets” option)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Anything not described in the inclusions
Additional Information

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand’s stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions and experiencing the serene beauty of each destination. Start your tour in the adventure capital Queenstown and conclude in the vibrant city Christchurch. Drive to Arthur’s Pass, marveling at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, before returning on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford Sound. Throughout the tour, benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide-driver and enjoy a private vehicle exclusively for your group.

  • Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Customer Ratings
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(2 Ratings)
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Glenha1788jt
Aug 21, 2024
Super knowledgeable and caring guide - We just wrapped up an amazing 3 dat tour of Queenstown, and it was one of the best travel experience we have had as a family. From the jaw dropping views of Mt Cook to the scenic drive through Arthur's Pass and the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound, every moment felt like new adventure. You can really picture yourself standing there, taking all in- its that incredible. Our guide was fantastic, super knowledgeable and genuinely cared about making our trip memorable. Every recommendation he gave, weather it was a spot for lunch or a hidden gem to check out, was spot on. He knew the area like the back of his hand and made sure we got the most out of every stop. If you are planning a trip to Queenstown, this tour is a must. It's perfect for the one who looking to explore best of what this stunning region has to offer. It's worth the money you spend. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Melissalv6326se
Jul 12, 2024
Last minute magic - My parents and I had an amazing 3 day trip to New Zealand South. The itinerary was well thought out, and the night stay location were perfectly planned. One of our best experiences was at the Aoraki Dark Sky Reserve, which wouldn't have been possible if we tried to plan day trip instead of this 3 day trip. Despite of booking last minute, our excellent guide organized and executed it flawlessly, as if we had planned it well in advance.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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