South Island Scenic Explorer
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Description: Indulge in New Zealand’s South Island’s breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. This tour package offers an immersive journey through New Zealand’s extraordinary scenery and rich cultural traditions, leaving travelers with treasured memories and a profound sense of wonder.
Highlights:
– Milford Sound cruise
– Franz Josef Glacier hike
– Queenstown adventure activities
Itinerary:
Day 1: Christchurch Arrival
– Arrive in Christchurch, the “Garden City”
– Check in at your accommodation
– Evening punting on the Avon River
Day 2: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
– Morning city tour including Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum
– Afternoon drive to Lake Tekapo
– Evening stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve
Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook
– Morning visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd
– Afternoon drive to Mount Cook National Park
– Evening walk to Tasman Glacier viewpoint
Day 4: Mount Cook to Queenstown
– Morning hike on the Hooker Valley Track
– Afternoon scenic drive to Queenstown
– Evening gondola ride and dinner at Skyline Restaurant
Day 5: Queenstown Adventure Day
– Full day of adventure activities (options include bungee jumping, jet boating, or skydiving)
– Evening free to explore Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife
Day 6: Milford Sound Day Trip
– Full-day excursion to Milford Sound
– Scenic cruise through the fjord
– Evening return to Queenstown
Day 7: Queenstown to Wanaka
– Morning drive to Wanaka via Crown Range Road
– Afternoon visit to Puzzling World
– Evening walk along Lake Wanaka shoreline
Day 8: Wanaka to Franz Josef
– Morning hike to Roy’s Peak for panoramic views
– Afternoon scenic drive to Franz Josef
– Evening, soak in the glacier hot pools
Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier
– Morning helicopter flight and guided glacier hike
– Afternoon visit to West Coast Wildlife Centre
– Evening return to Christchurch
Day 10: Departure
– Free morning for last-minute exploring
– Transfer to Christchurch Airport for departure
Must-Do Activities:
– Milford Sound cruise
– Franz Josef Glacier hike
– Queenstown adventure activity of choice
Accommodation Options:
– Christchurch: The George or Distinction Christchurch Hotel
– Queenstown: QT Queenstown or The Rees Hotel
– Franz Josef: Te Waonui Forest Retreat or Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier