Classic South Island Adventure

  • 8 Days
  • 14 People Max

    5 - 14 guests

  • Activity Level 3
    • Activity Level 3

      Earn Your Lunch

      I stay active on vacation and love the feeling of relaxing after a busy day on the go. I season my trips with a little fresh exercise.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Christchurch
  • Trip End: Queenstown
Essence of the South Island Trip

Discover the depths of New Zealand's backcountry via hiking, biking and kayaking on our Classic South Island Adventure.

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, exploring New Zealand's most iconic and remote wilderness, with every detail carefully planned on our 8-day Classic South Island Adventure. You'll be truly mind-blown by the array of activities and landscapes you can experience in just eight days. From flying into Siberia Valley, hiking up to Lake Crucible in Mt Aspiring National Park and jet boating out the next morning. Each day brings a unique challenge, a new adventure and a chance to see the South Island in ways very few experience. If you're ready to take in the wilderness of the West Coast, hike part of the Routeburn Track and spend a day in the charming mountain town of Queenstown, look no further than our Classic South Island Adventure.

   This trip is operated by Active Adventures.

Pick Your Multi-Day Option!

Option A: Siberia Valley Wilderness

The Siberia Valley Wilderness option is designed for those that would like to experience true remoteness in this stunning area. If you like the idea of staying in a rustic mountain hut this might be the option for you! We’ll be carrying everything we need in with us in large backpacks. While your guides carry the lion’s share of the load you’ll still need to carry your own gear (sleeping bag, dry clothes and some toiletries) and a portion of the group’s food. Any excess gear is stored securely in our vehicle for you.

Option B: Makaroa Adventure

The Makarora Adventure option is perfect if you’d like to experience a scenic flight, a day hike and a jet boat ride in the stunning Mt. Aspiring Wilderness area, all the while staying in comfortable accommodations. You’ll be doing just as much activity as those on the Siberia Valley Wilderness option - without having to carry a pack!

Classic South Island Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Queenstown
  • Day 1Arrive, hike in Arthur's Pass

  • Day 2Kayak Okarito Lagoon and Hike near Franz Josef Glacier

  • Day 3Start Of Multi-Day Options

  • Day 3 Option ASiberia Valley Wilderness: Scenic flight, hike Lake Crucible

  • Day 3 Option BMakarora Adventure: Scenic flight, hike Siberia Valley, jet boat Wilkin River

  • Day 4Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 4 Option ASiberia Valley Wilderness: Hike Siberia Valley, jet boat Wilkin River, bike Queenstown Trail

  • Day 4 Option BMakaroa Adventure: Hike Haast Pass Lookout and Blue Pools, bike Queenstown Trail

  • Day 5Gondola ride, hike Ben Lomond or free day in Queenstown

  • Day 6Hike Kepler Track

  • Day 7Milford Sound Cruise, Hike Routeburn Track

  • Day 8Depart for home

  • Day 1

    Arrive, hike in Arthur's Pass

    #99

    Most people leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Friday evening, arriving in Auckland early Sunday morning. You’ll lose a day crossing the dateline – but you get it back on the way home! It’s a short flight from Auckland to Christchurch on the South Island where we’ll meet you. We’ll then travel into the Southern Alps to hike Devil’s Punchbowl in Arthur’s Pass. The walk will take you through native beech forest to an awesome 131 meter (430 feet) waterfall, so make sure you have your camera handy! From there, we’ll head down the coast to Franz Josef where we’ll stay the night. Nestled in the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, Franz Josef is the heart of New Zealand's glacier country.

    Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef (Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 100 meters (330 feet)

  • Day 2

    Kayak Okarito Lagoon and Hike near Franz Josef Glacier

    #101

    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). After our activities this morning we’ll regroup back in Franz Josef for some lunch before heading off to check out the glacier! With some 140 glaciers making their way down from the Southern Alps, this area is fittingly known as glacier country. Few sights equal the spectacle of two of these giant frozen rivers (Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers) imperceptibly grinding their way down through the temperate rainforest to just 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level. Our hike will take us along the Waiho River bed up the valley and offer up views of the terminal face of the Franz Josef Glacier. From Franz Josef, we’ll travel down the coast through lush forest, and over the divide to a small mountain village called Makarora, where we’ll enjoy some local fare.

    Wonderland Lodge, Makarora (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Kayaking: 2-3 hours OR Heli-Hike on Franz Josef Glacier
    Hiking: 4.8 kilometers (3 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 20 meters (66 feet)
    Notes: Optional Heli-hike (additional cost applies): An outrageously scenic alternative to this afternoon’s hike is to heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier itself. After being fitted with crampons, ice axes and so on, you’ll board a modern turbine helicopter and fly towards the highest peaks of the Southern Alps, landing on the glacier at 1300 metres (4265 feet) above sea level. Led by specialist glacier guides, you’ll hike through the grand ice formations of the glacier, checking out its crevasses, seracs and tunnels – no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice and make sure you make the most of the conditions. At the end of your hike on the ice, you’ll take another helicopter ride out of the mountains and back to civilization. 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).

  • Day 3

    Start Of Multi-Day Options

    This morning we’ll make our final preparations for our incredible flight into Mount Aspiring National Park, and true wilderness.

  • Day 3 Option A

    Siberia Valley Wilderness: Scenic flight, hike Lake Crucible

    If you like the idea of staying in one of New Zealand’s most isolated mountain huts, then this option is for you (but let us know early as space is limited!) We’ll start with a stunning scenic flight alongside the snowy Southern Alps to the Siberia Valley airstrip, a short hike from the hut where we’ll spend the night. After lightening your packs at the hut, we will hike up the trail to Lake Crucible, a cauldron-like glacial lake with fantastic views of the valley below. The hike follows the Siberia river upstream for a short while before crossing the river to make our way up into the Crucible Valley. This section of the trail is steep and forested and is where the majority of the 550m (1800 feet) in elevation gain will be tackled. The path will ease eventually, and you’ll cross the Crucible stream, making your way toward the moraine wall and the impressive backdrop of the valley, Mount Alba. The hike at times is strenuous, though the Lake Crucible Valley has exceptional scenic diversity, so it provides a great reward for the efforts you put in. We’ll be there to encourage you the whole way. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a true Kiwi experience at a small mountain hut, tucked within the Siberia Valley, our home for the night!

    Siberia Hut, Mt Aspiring National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation +/- 550 meters (1,800 feet)

  • Day 3 Option B

    Makarora Adventure: Scenic flight, hike Siberia Valley, jet boat Wilkin River

    If you prefer accommodation with modern amenities instead of a mountain hut for the night, then this is the option for you. You’ll head out for a mind-blowing scenic flight into Mt. Aspiring National Park, with a bird’s eye view of the lower Southern Alps, landing in the remote Siberia Valley. From here, you’ll hike downstream along the Wilkin River, through beautiful silver beech (Nothofagus menziesii) forests to a jet boat rendezvous. Then it’s a thrilling ride back to Makarora for dinner and perhaps a well-earned drink at the local pub.

    Wonderland Lodge, Makarora (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation + 140 meters (460 feet) / - 320 meters (1,050 feet)

  • Day 4

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 4 Option A

    Siberia Valley Wilderness: Hike Siberia Valley, jet boat Wilkin River, bike Queenstown Trail

    After an early start, we spend the morning hiking to Kerin Forks, at the head of the Wilkin River, where we’ll be met by a jet boat for an exhilarating ride back to Makarora to meet up with the rest of the group for lunch. Your load will be little more than a day pack – our guides will carry the lion’s share. You’ll be carrying a backpack with a sleeping bag, a few spare clothes, and some food – no need for any more than that, although if you opt to camp out under the stars the night before, you will be carrying your tent out. After regrouping in Makarora, we’ll have a picnic lunch before taking a beautiful drive through spectacular glacier-carved valleys. The landscape changes rapidly from dense beech forests to semi-arid mountainous terrain. We'll take a quick stop in Wanaka before a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to Arrowtown, a small historic gold mining village established in the 1800s. We'll hop on bikes to ride a portion of the Queenstown Bike Trail. The trail is well packed and winds along beside the Arrow River, and we'll follow the Arrow Bridges Trail through to Morven Ferry Carpark or the famous Kawarau Bungy Bridge, depending on the group's ability. After our ride, we'll head on to Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu where you’ll sleep sweetly tonight at a lakefront hotel located in the heart of this alpine town.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch)

    Hiking: 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation + 140 meters (460 feet) / - 320 meters (1,050 feet)
    Biking: 7.5-13 kilometers (4.6-8.1 miles), 1-2 hour, elevation +/- 127 meters (416 feet)

  • Day 4 Option B

    Makaroa Adventure: Hike Haast Pass Lookout and Blue Pools, bike Queenstown Trail

    This morning we’ll head back toward the West Coast and stop off at the top of Haast Pass to walk up to the Haast Pass Lookout. The trail has a steady incline and doesn’t let off until you reached the top, though the views from above the tree line are well worth the climb! On our way back to Makarora, we’ll check out the iconic Blue Pools, nestled among mature beech and podocarp forest, these pools of deep, clear water flowing into the Makarora River offer a moment of tranquillity. Alternatively, you can have a relaxing sleep in and spend your morning soaking up the mountain views. After regrouping in Makarora, we’ll have a picnic lunch before taking a beautiful drive through spectacular glacier-carved valleys. The landscape changes rapidly from dense beech forests to semi-arid mountainous terrain. We'll take a quick stop in Wanaka before a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to Arrowtown, a small historic gold mining village established in the 1800s. We'll hop on bikes to ride a portion of the Queenstown Bike Trail. The trail is well packed and winds along beside the Arrow River, and we'll follow the Arrow Bridges Trail through to Morven Ferry Carpark or the famous Kawarau Bungy Bridge, depending on the group's ability. After our ride, we'll head on to Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu where you’ll sleep sweetly tonight at a lakefront hotel located in the heart of this alpine town.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch)

    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)
    Biking: 7.5-13 kilometers (4.6-8.1 miles), 1-2 hour, elevation +/- 127 meters (416 feet)

  • Day 5

    Gondola ride, hike Ben Lomond or free day in Queenstown

    #111

    Today you have two options – a full day hike or a free day to yourself. For those keen for an alpine hike, you’ll meet your guide at reception at 9am, ready to head up the Ben Lomond Track. To save our legs a little, we’ll take a short gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak, which is 450 meters (1476 feet) above Queenstown. From there, we’ll head out along the trail through alpine tussock-land towards the summit of Ben Lomond. From this vantage point, you’ll find yourself immersed in amazing views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, which are themselves dwarfed by the surrounding mountains including Mt. Aspiring. As an alternative, you can have a free day to explore on your own. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilisation are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, sidewalk cafés, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here including horse trekking, kayaking, fishing, winery tours, hang gliding, mountain biking, bungy jumping, jet boating and skydiving. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere or lounge about reading a book. Your guides will happily share their favourite haunts and point you in the right direction if you choose to have a free day today.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown

    Hiking: 8 kilometers (5 miles), 4-5 hours, elevation +/- 978 meters (3,208 feet)

  • Day 6

    Hike Kepler Track

    #113

    This morning we’ll make our way around Lake Wakatipu, leaving behind the towering Remarkables and head west to the small town of Te Anau, the gateway to Milford Sound. This afternoon we’ll take a hike on the famous Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks - we 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.

    Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 9.5 kilometers (6 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 50 meters (165 feet)

  • Day 7

    Milford Sound Cruise, Hike Routeburn Track

    #115

    It’s an early start this morning as we set off for our largest and perhaps most spectacular national park, Fiordland. We’ll take a short drive through the Homer Tunnel and emerge at the top of a spectacular glacier-carved valley for a memorable descent to the shore of Milford Sound. Rudyard Kipling rated this fiord as the eighth natural wonder of the world and it is truly breathtaking, with steep granite walls plunging over a thousand meters to the Tasman Sea and waterfalls cascading into the deep inky water. We’ll jump on board the first boat cruise of the day, where we’ll have the water to ourselves, as we gaze in wonder at the waterfalls tumbling down enormous vertical rock faces all around and journey right out to the entrance of the fiord. We may be lucky enough to encounter the friendly fur seals and dolphins that are sometimes in the area. Afterwards, we’ll explore the Fiordland wilderness on foot again, with a hike to Key Summit on the famous Routeburn Track. The panoramic views are incredible from this vantage point and you’ll probably get to meet New Zealand’s notoriously cheeky and intelligent alpine parrot, the kea (Nestor notabilis). After our hike, we’ll continue heading out of Milford Sound to return for our last night on the shores of Lake Te Anau. Tonight we’ll enjoy a celebratory dinner for our last night.

    Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 3.4 kilometers (2 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 380 meters (1,246 feet)

  • Day 8

    Depart for home

    After breakfast, we’ll return to Queenstown. This is the end of your trip and you’ll have had an exhilarating week. We’ll leave you buzzing with excitement, but feeling relaxed and refreshed as well! If you're keen to extend your trip and see what the North Island has to offer (Maori culture, pristine beaches, and geothermal areas) check out our 11-day Ultimate North Island Adventure (5-day options also available).

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

Classic South Island Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $4999/per adult (+tax) 

Tax info:
Our New Zealand trip fares are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST 15%)

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Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

What Our Guests Say About The Classic South Island Adventure

view all

Classic South Island Adventure - July 2020

Oct 27 2019 Tui with Natasha, Astrid and Lucy

"We went for a shorter 5 day trip, which included a 2 day 1 hike… read more

"We went for a shorter 5 day trip, which included a 2 day 1 hike at Siberia Valley. It was our first backpacking experience, and we enjoyed it thoroughly! Natasha, Astrid and Lucy were excellent guides, who took really good care of the group. read less

4 Stars (1980 reviews)

Wanzhen, Singapore

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Inspiring Journey

"I actually do not even know where to begin except that my journey to New… read more

"I actually do not even know where to begin except that my journey to New Zealand with Active Adventures brought me incredible joy and was so much more than I had anticipated. My son and I were on the Tui trip and from the very beginning, our guides, Katie and Ash, were absolutely the best in providing information about the South Island and answering all our many questions about our gear, meals, what to best wear and many other things. However, the best part of Katie and Ash were their incredible passion for their homeland, their unbridled optimism and encouragement and their wacky sense of humor which kept us laughing through our hardest hikes and throughout the day! Our accommodations were absolutely wonderful especially staying in Makorara in our quirky and comfortable A-Frames. Even our stay in the Siberia Hut which we chose to do was an opportunity that I shall never forget. Staying overnight, not only did we get the chance to hike the valley to Crucible Lake but at night, the heavens opened up and we were able to gaze upon the Southern Cross and a magnificent Milky Way! From flying into Aspiring National Park, the jet boat ride and biking the west coast along the Tasman Sea, the sights were spectacular! More importantly, the group of people that we were with were some of the best folks to be with. All of us share our time and stories together which made our trip even more special. Because of the global pandemic, it was very sad to have cut our trip by three days but we all understood, that safety and getting back home was our first priority. It is my hope that one day, I can return to New Zealand to continue my journey and it will be once again with Active Adventures! read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Rita, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Wonderful Experience, will definitely book another trip!

"This was our first time to New Zealand and had heard so much about the… read more

"This was our first time to New Zealand and had heard so much about the gorgeous scenery, we wanted to experience it's beauty first hand while we were still able bodied! My husband and I have very different fitness levels, so, I purposely picked this trip for the variety of activities and it was a good fit for both. It was down right enjoyable touring and experiencing the scenic land, not sweating all the small stuff! That being said, there are so many details and our leaders Greg & Alicia, made all the planning and tour look effortless! They were the friendliest, most knowledgeable, highly skilled and entertaining leaders one could hope for! We would highly recommend Active Adventures to anyone and we will most definitely look to them again for future travels! read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Melinda, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Tui Norris/Jones

"Katie andAsh were great as well as assistance. Very patient and helpful and made… read more

"Katie andAsh were great as well as assistance. Very patient and helpful and made the whole trip enjoyable. Unfortunately it was cut short with Virus. read less

4 Stars (1980 reviews)

Sue, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Great way to experience some of New Zealand's finest landscapes

"The Tui trip was a great experience from beginning to end. The trip is busy… read more

"The Tui trip was a great experience from beginning to end. The trip is busy but everyday brings something special in terms of landscape, local culture, physical challenges and great fun travelling with a group of likeminded people. If you want to experience some of South Island and New Zealand's great beauty then this trip should fit the bill. read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

David, United Kingdom

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

If you love the outdoors this is the one for you

"Tremendous trip, pushed me at times but that was good. The guides did a fantastic… read more

"Tremendous trip, pushed me at times but that was good. The guides did a fantastic job, giving encouragement and making everyone feel safe. They were good at including everyone too. Each day had a different challenge and I felt satisfied every day. read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Anne, United Kingdom

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Active Adventures Lives Up To Its Name

"Active Adventures fit several weeks worth of activities in one. It was quite the adventure… read more

"Active Adventures fit several weeks worth of activities in one. It was quite the adventure and not a moment was wasted. Our guides
Lauren and Lianna were experienced beyond their years and were so much fun! read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Anita, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Tui Trip March 2020

"We had been looking forward to this trip for several years and we're not disappointed… read more

"We had been looking forward to this trip for several years and we're not disappointed one tiny bit. It was a dream come true, from beginning to the end. Daniel and Irene were our guides and I feel so fortunate. Daniel was a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of New Zealand including some wonderful folklore story telling on the bus traveling from place to place. Irene's bubbly personality, cooking skills and eagerness to help were really appreciated. They really took care of us and were always smiling and making sure everyone was having a good time. I've already made "Pavlova" twice! Thanks Irene for your grandma's baking tips.
The Tui trip took us to so many beautiful places. The hiking, biking, jet boating, scenic flight, excellent guides, yummy food, laughter and fun filled days all shared with new friends made for a trip of a lifetime. Don't think twice about taking this trip with Active Adventure.Do it, you won't be sorry! Thank you! (side note..our trip ended coincidently the day New Zealand closed its borders because of the coronavirus.. I hope you are all safe and stay well) read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Marci, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

Intrepid Trek of a lifetime!!

"There is no words that can express my gratitude for our experience on the Tui… read more

"There is no words that can express my gratitude for our experience on the Tui Trip. I truly felt like we had the best guides available in New Zealand. Lauren and Liana were wonderful, accommodating, gratuitous and lots of fun. Lianas driving kept us safe and Lauren’s food kept us more than full. Their knowledge of the island and Maori legends were second to none and kept us amused on the whole trip. Then we were lucky enough to to have Fiona and Claire for a short time too! All such kind girls. And so strong and the only word that comes to mind is intrepid. I felt like I could conquer anything with their guidance. And we did. The Siberia hut experience, Ben Lomond, kayaking, biking, and Arthur’s pass. Lauren even wrote me a packing list for the Tongariro crossing that I was doing the week after. So safety conscious. We were so lucky to have such a fabulous trip. Also the whole booking experience with Tory and Ineka was great too. I will be back for sure. read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Linda, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - April 2020

TUI trip

"Without prompting, we call it the trip of a lifetime. The South Island… read more

"Without prompting, we call it the trip of a lifetime. The South Island is beyond description, so there is a good base for the trip, but our guides went beyond the call to make sure we had the experience we had. Due to weather we missed our plane flight - but our guide managed to get us up for a sightseeing tour without compromising the remainder of the trip. And did I mention it was the trip of a lifetime? read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Dave, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Brilliant adventure

"Really enjoyed my short tour in South Island. A lot of fun experiences, great… read more

"Really enjoyed my short tour in South Island. A lot of fun experiences, great accommodation and fun activities. Would highly recommend Active Adventures and would happily book with them again. read less

4 Stars (1980 reviews)

Kate, United Kingdom

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Fanatstic Trip

"I can't say enough about this amazing trip. The scenery and the activities were absolutely… read more

"I can't say enough about this amazing trip. The scenery and the activities were absolutely fantastic!
In 8 days we did as much as we would have done on our own in 1-2 months.
Pim and Sally were amazing tour guides. read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Simona, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Amazing trip!!!

"I don't even usually write reviews, but I was so happy with every aspect of… read more

"I don't even usually write reviews, but I was so happy with every aspect of our Active Adventures trip that I have to give it an A+. I was already thinking of other places I could travel too and use this company. Their office staff was great with communication before the trip started. Once it started we had a group of 11 women (ages 50s and 60s) and were led by Leana and Lauren, two amazing guides to everything New Zealand! I loved how active and fun the whole trip was, not to mentioned we learned so much about New Zealand. Leana's driving was wonderful and we always felt safe. Lauren prepared the food and even catered to my newly vegan status. Loved it! read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Sherri, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Fantastic trip leaders

"These people excel at their jobs as trip leaders. read more

"These people excel at their jobs as trip leaders. read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Maril, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Teresa's Review

"I can’t say enough GREAT things about Ellie and Elder! They truly made our… read more

"I can’t say enough GREAT things about Ellie and Elder! They truly made our trip seamless and unforgettable. They took the best care of us, always looking out for my dietary needs, offering helpful tips, and helping with any large or tiny thing I might need. They have amazing positive attitudes & a sense of adventure which helped our group immensely. We really enjoyed all the activities as well as the insights into New Zealand nature and culture. Brogan joined us for our overnight hut and Lake Crucible adventure. She was really insightful with our questions on Maori traditions and current day status and we appreciated her hiking pace and chocolate. Not sure how Elder and Ellie produced the magical meals they did - so tasty! read less

5 Stars (1980 reviews)

Teresa, United States

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2020

Tui trip

"We had never been away with ACTIVE ADVENTURES before - but we will certainly use… read more

"We had never been away with ACTIVE ADVENTURES before - but we will certainly use them again. The walking was fantastic, there was a lovely variety of accommodation and the guides were knowledgeable, professional but also really good fun. We had a wonderful time and met some great people. read less

4 Stars (1980 reviews)

Heather, United Kingdom

Rainforest Retreat Franz Josef 2
Siberia Hut

Accommodation

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character or adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed to be a tour of the fanciest hotels in New Zealand. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&Bs, lodges and apartments, some of which have private bathrooms and some shared bathrooms. Things get a little more rustic in the Siberia Valley wilderness huts with shared bunkrooms, and it’s well worth it for the experience!

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

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Useful Info

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travellers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travellers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travellers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Rydges Latimer Square Hotel at 9:30am or the Christchurch airport (CHC) in front of the Help Desk (near door 7) at 10am. You are welcome to stay at any hotel in Christchurch if you arrive before the first day, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Queenstown Airport (ZQN) in time for flights below or anywhere in Queenstown around lunch time.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Christchurch before 9am. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Queenstown after 12pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How fit do I need to be?

As an Activity Level 3-4 trip, you’ll need a good level of fitness for this trip as it’s one of our more adventurous trips. Typically, hikes range between three and six hours to complete, more, or less hiking is available depending on your multi-day option.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character or adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed to be tour of the fanciest hotels in New Zealand. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&Bs, lodges and apartments, some of which have private bathrooms and some shared bathrooms. Things get a little more rustic in Milford Sound and in the Siberia Valley wilderness huts, and it’s well worth it for the experience!

If you've selected a single supplement for your trip, the Siberia Valley wilderness option is not included as no single rooms are available in the huts, and the single supplement price takes this into account.

While there are laundry facilities at most locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once during your trip, if at all. The best time will be during our two night stay in Queenstown (during your free day). 

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You’ll need one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase and a good quality daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

If you've chosen the Siberia Valley Experience option, you'll also require a good quality trekking pack with well-fitting shoulder and waist straps. Your pack should have a volume of ~60 litres (3500 cubic inches), large enough to fit your sleeping bag inside along with all your multi-day gear.

Will we encounter snow on this trip?

During bumper snow years the snow may stay on the mountains into October and November. If so, the New Zealand Department of Conservation (equivalent of the USA’s National Park Service) will not allow us to travel over heavily snowed terrain for safety reasons and we heed their warnings. As a result, we may not be able to access some higher elevation hikes such as Mueller Ridge in Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park and Robert’s Ridge in Nelson Lakes National Park - both at 1,500 metres (4500 feet) in our itinerary. Luckily, New Zealand is full of stunning hikes so we’ll select an alternative hike that allows you to enjoy the snowcapped peaks from a safe distance.

Tell me about the Optional Activities on this trip?

You have the option to take an exciting scenic helicopter flight to visit the upper reaches of the Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast – an area usually only experienced mountaineers would get to see. No prior experience is required, everything you need is supplied, and as long as you can hike, you can heli-hike!

The three hour package includes a scenic helicopter flight (15 minutes one-way), a two-hour guided walk on and around the glacier and amazing panoramic views of the area. A good level of fitness is required and the following equipment is provided for you: glacier boots, socks, crampons, ice axe and a waterproof raincoat. You’ll need to bring underlayers and this will be depend on the weather, along with sunglasses, sunscreen, some snacks and a small drink bottle.

Note; this is not a fast activity, as walking with a group and continually cutting steps in the ice can be time-consuming. This is however a unique experience. Also If you have (or have had) a heart condition, ACL Knee surgery or you exceed the weight limit of 115 kilograms (250 pounds), you may be refused this activity on arrival.

*This activity MUST be booked at the time of booking.

Is tipping expected in New Zealand?

Tipping is neither required nor routinely expected in New Zealand, but it is appropriate for very good service. In New Zealand you don't usually tip in restaurants, or if you take a taxi, or get a haircut. Many of our guests do choose to tip our guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide.

Tell me about the Siberia Valley Wilderness option?

The Siberia Valley Wilderness option is designed for those that would like to experience true remoteness in this stunning area. If you like the idea of staying in a rustic mountain hut this might be the option for you! We’ll be carrying everything we need in with us in large backpacks. While your guides carry the lion’s share of the load you’ll still need to carry your own gear (sleeping bag, dry clothes and some toiletries) and a portion of the group’s food. Any excess gear is stored securely in our vehicle for you. It’s an easy 15 minute wander from the airstrip across to the Siberia Hut, our humble home for the night, where you will drop the bulk of your gear before departing for Lake Crucible! We will hike up the valley further, following the Siberia river before crossing to ascend a steep, forested section of the trail, a tangle of roots requiring the use of your hands. Once we have reached the hanging valley above we will hike toward the Lake, with a last burst up the steep morraine to reach it! There is an elevation gain of 550 metres (1,800 feet) and the views are worth it! The hike is a good challenge and is a return hike on the same trail. The following day it’s a three hour hike (6.5 kilometres /4 miles) through to the next valley with your backpack, to meet the jet boat.

You’ll start with a jaw-droppingly beautiful scenic flight up the Wilkin and Siberia Valleys to land on an air strip virtually right at the foot of Siberia Hut, your humble home for the night. After dropping your overnight gear off at the hut, you’ll then decide what to do for the afternoon – hike up to glacier-fed Lake Crucible, go for a swim in the waterfall or chill out at the hut with a book. This evening you’ll be treated to a mountain-style candle-lit dinner. The following morning you’ll set off on a three hour hike downstream, and then it’s time to catch a ride on a jet boat for a thrilling trip back to Makarora.

While in Siberia Valley you’ll be sleeping in Department of Conservation (DOC) owned mountain huts. While this unique hut is located in a very remote area (with amazing scenery) it doesn’t have any private rooms, electricity, hot water, phones or flushing toilets - however it’s warm, dry, comfortable - and view from the outhouse is second to none! It’s not possible to pre-book this hut, so you will probably get to meet other mountain adventurers during your stay. 

If you’d prefer a little more privacy than the huts can provide, then you can opt to camp in the field outside Siberia Hut. You’ll be provided with a 2 person tent and a foam roll sleeping mat to carry in your backpack. You can pitch your tent wherever you choose (we can help!) and you’ll still be able to use all hut facilities. If camping sounds appealing, that’s great! Just bear in mind that you’ll need to pack the 2-3kg (4-6lbs) tent out the following day. 

Tell me about the Makarora Adventure option?

The Makarora Adventure option is perfect if you’d like to experience a scenic flight, a day hike and a jet boat ride in the stunning Mt. Aspiring Wilderness area, all the while staying in comfortable accommodations. You’ll be doing just as much activity as those on the Siberia Valley Wilderness option - without having to carry a pack!

On the first day of this option everyone in your ‘Tui’ group will head out for a mind-blowing scenic flight into Mt. Aspiring National Park for a bird’s eye view of the lower Southern Alps. After landing in the remote Siberia Valley, you’ll head off for a three-hour hike downstream to the Wilkin River. There, you’ll meet up with a jet boat for a thrilling trip back to Makarora, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable bed. The following morning you’ll go for a lovely hike in the Haast Pass and Blue Pools, before meeting with the rest of your group once they return from their night in the hut.

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Our Local Guides

Why Travel With Us

benefit group size

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.

benefit guides

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!

benefit safety

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.

benefit family

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

benefit wow

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”

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New Zealand

Classic South Island Adventure