Milford Track Adventure

  • 12 - 14 Days

    All Prices:

    • 12 Days - USD $6999
    • 14 Days - USD $7499
  • 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: Christchurch
Milford Hiking Adventure 'Manuka'

Hike the iconic Milford Track and discover lesser-known trails on our Milford Track Adventure

Love hiking and love your creature comforts come nighttime? You've come to the right place. On this 14-day Milford Hiking Adventure, you'll experience the very best of New Zealand's South Island, one trail at a time. Choosing between hiking the entire length of the Milford Track or sticking to day hikes along the equally stunning Routeburn, Milford, and Kepler Tracks is no easy task. Especially when you add in an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound and a cruise on Milford Sound. You'll fall in love with Fiordland's diverse landscapes and learn about the fascinating culture, flora and fauna of the region with two knowledgeable local guides leading the way. We don't stop there, though. You'll also hike trails known only to the locals as you explore Mt Aspiring National Park, Fox Glacier and Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Our Milford Track Adventure is one of those experiences you'll be talking about for years to come.

   This trip is operated by Active Adventures.

Pick Your Multi-Day Option!

Option A: Great Walks of New Zealand

On the Great Walks of New Zealand option, you’ll be spending three days hiking in Fiordland National Park on three different Great Walks – the Milford Track, the Routeburn track and the Kepler track before heading back to Queenstown to hike Ben Lomond! You’ll also get to visit Milford Sound, and take an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. This is the perfect option for those who want to experience a variety of hiking tracks, spend more time with our lovely Active Adventures New Zealand guides and explore the lesser-known, though equally stunning Doubtful Sound – often referred to as Milford Sound on steroids!

Option B: Milford Track

On the Milford Track Guided Walk, you’ll be spending four days and four nights hiking in Fiordland National Park. The Milford Track is run by a local Queenstown operator, and is a popular route that starts near Te Anau and finishes with a cruise on Milford Sound. This trail is very popular so you will get to meet other travelers during this hike, though numbers are limited to 50 people a day. You’ll be hiking from lodge to lodge, carrying only wet weather gear, spare clothes and toiletries in your day pack, or a pack provided by us.

Milford Track Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Christchurch
  • Day 1Arrive, hike Castle Hill

  • Day 2Rainforest and beach hikes in Punakaiki

  • Day 3Hike Point Elizabeth, visit Hokitika and hike Okarito walkway

  • Day 4Hike to Franz Josef Glacier

  • Day 5Hike Rocky Mountain, explore Wanaka

  • Day 6Free day in Queenstown

  • Day 7Start Of Multi-Day Options

  • Day 7 Option AGreat Walks of New Zealand: Overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound

  • Day 7 Option BMilford Track: Boat ride and hike Milford Track (extra fee applies)

  • Day 8Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 8 Option AGreat Walks of New Zealand: Cruise in Doubtful Sound, hike Routeburn Track

  • Day 8 Option BMilford Track: Hike in beech forest

  • Day 9Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 9 Option AGreat Walks of New Zealand: Hike Milford Track, cruise Milford Sound

  • Day 9 Option BMilford Track: Hike McKinnon Pass

  • Day 10Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 10 Option AGreat Walks of New Zealand: Takahe Bird Park, hike Kepler Track

  • Day 10 Option BMilford Track: Hike to Milford Sound

  • Day 11Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 11 Option AGreat Walks of New Zealand: Gondola ride, hike Ben Lomond

  • Day 11 Option BMilford Track: Cruise Milford Sound

  • Day 12Hike Sam Summers Track, visit local winery

  • Day 13Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

  • Day 14Depart for home

  • Day 1

    Arrive, hike Castle Hill

    #47

    Most people leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Saturday evening, arriving in Auckland early Monday 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 in the South Island where we’ll meet you. We’ll then head west to Kuru Tawhiti Conservation Area in the heart of the Southern Alps. We’ll take a gentle one-hour walk among the imposing limestone tors of Castle Hill, which were once a meeting place for moa hunters of the Ngai Tahu tribe. The Dalai Lama visited this area and described it as a ‘spiritual center of the universe’. This afternoon, we’ll continue on to the West Coast and the seaside village of Punakaiki, where you’ll have the rest of the afternoon to relax or walk along the beach. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll probably find jetlag is no big deal – for instance, it’s a 12 to 13-hour direct overnight flight from Los Angeles to Auckland so you’ll appreciate the gentle start to your New Zealand adventure.

    The Ocean View Retreat, Punakaiki (Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 1 kilometer (0.6 mile), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)

  • Day 2

    Rainforest and beach hikes in Punakaiki

    #49

    We’ll spend most of today hiking the Inland Pack Track through temperate rainforest and limestone canyons in the footsteps of the gold miners who established this trail over a century ago. We’ll also follow the Truman Track to a rocky cove and check out the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes – aptly named limestone formations that have been sculpted through relentless pounding by the Tasman Sea. The Punakaiki coastline is a magnet to marine wildlife, including little blue penguins and Hector’s dolphin (the world’s smallest) that can sometimes be seen close to shore.

    The Ocean View Retreat, Punakaiki (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 6 kilometers (4 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 130 meters (425 feet)

  • Day 3

    Hike Point Elizabeth, visit Hokitika and hike Okarito walkway

    We’ll travel down the coast to hike the Point Elizabeth track through native coastal forest and flax. The fibers of the flax plant are a traditional resource for Maori, used for weaving a variety of baskets, mats and clothing. Then it’s on to Hokitika where we’ll stretch our legs and check out local art galleries and pounamu-carving workshops (pounamu is Maori for jade). We’ll continue south and stop off in Okarito, a little-known beach community on the coast, for a relaxing hike through lush coastal forest or along the black sand beach. We’ll then carry on down the windswept coast to Franz Josef. Nestled in the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, Franz Josef is the heart of New Zealand's glacier country. After dark, we can head out to look for the eerie lights of Arachnocampa luminosa – the native glowworm – and listen for some of New Zealand’s nocturnal birdlife such as the distinctive hoot of the morepork owl.

    Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 120 meters (394 feet)

  • Day 4

    Hike to Franz Josef 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 this giant frozen river (Franz Josef Glacier) imperceptibly grinding its way down through the temperate rainforest to just 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level. We’ll take a morning walk to the historic Tartare Tunnels, and then continue on to Franz Josef Glacier where we’ll walk to an incredible view of the terminal face. From Franz Josef, we’ll travel down the coast through lush rainforest and inland to Makarora, a small village bordering Mt. Aspiring National Park, with incredible views of the snow-capped mountains.

    Wonderland Lodge, Makarora (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Tatare Tunnels Hiking: 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation 120 meters (395 feet)
    Hiking: Franz Josef Glacier Terminal Face Hiking: 4.8 kilometers (3 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)
    Notes: Optional Heli-hike (extra fee 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 meters (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.  The is also a weight limit of 115kg (250 pounds).

  • Day 5

    Hike Rocky Mountain, explore Wanaka

    #55

    This morning we’ll hike the Rocky Mountain track, a spectacular circuit through an area carved out by ice-age glaciers, with stands of native forest and shrub land. We’ll enjoy lunch after our hike in Wanaka, then it’s a short but dramatic drive over the Cardrona Saddle to Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, our base for the next couple of nights. You’ll have time to explore and plan your free day tomorrow before dinner. You’ll sleep sweetly at this lakefront hotel located in the heart of Queenstown.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch)

    Hiking: 7 kilometers (4.5 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 375 meters (1,230 feet) OR 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles), 1 hour

  • Day 6

    Free day in Queenstown

    #57

    Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilization are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here including horse trekking, fishing, winery tours, a historic steamship, bungy jumping, jet boating, and skydiving as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere at one of many local cafés. Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today. This afternoon, there’s a pre-departure briefing for the Milford Track Guided Walk if you’ve chosen that option.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown

  • Day 7

    Start Of Multi-Day Options

    Today we'll begin our multi-day options.

  • Day 7 Option A

    Great Walks of New Zealand: Overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound

    Variety is the spice of life and that’s exactly what this option is all about - hike three of New Zealand’s Great Walks and take an overnight cruise, all in five days - it’s unheard of! We kick things off with a relaxed breakfast, and a drive to the lakeside town of Manapouri, where our journey into Doubtful Sound begins. We’ll board a boat for the cruise across Lake Manapouri, before a drive over Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove where we’ll board the Fiordland Navigator for our overnight cruise. Doubtful Sound is a large and remote wilderness area, where you’ll have the opportunity to take a kayak out on the water or hop aboard the tender craft for a guided exploration of the fiord, and in the right season, you may catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Tonight, you’ll sleep in a quad share room aboard the Fiordland Navigator, though there is the option to upgrade to a private ensuite room, if you prefer.

    Fiordland Navigator, Doubtful Sound (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 7 Option B

    Milford Track: Boat ride and hike Milford Track (extra fee applies)

    The 5-day/4-night Milford Track is one of the first-established and best-known walking tracks in the country. It takes in glacial peaks, a mountain pass, New Zealand’s highest waterfall, and the dense rainforest of Fiordland. You’ll have four days of exercise, good food and great scenery as you walk 53 kilometers (33 miles) from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. Because you’re doing the guided walk, you’ll just be carrying a few essentials and a packed lunch each day, so your pack won’t be much heavier than what you’d bring on a regular day hike. Everything else is provided, including excellent meals at the lodges and on the trail, hot showers, bedding, specialist Milford Track guides, and even hairdryers in the rooms! For the first three nights, you’ll stay in comfortable mountain lodges, in four and six-bed bunk rooms with shared bathroom facilities. If you prefer your own bedroom and bathroom, contact us for the latest private room rates. On the fourth night, you’ll stay at Mitre Peak Lodge, a hotel exclusively for Milford Track Guided Walk hikers. From Queenstown, we’ll head to Lake Te Anau, stopping for lunch along the way. We take a boat to the head of the lake to the start of the Milford Track. It’s a short, easy walk to Glade House, where we stay our first night.

    Glade House, Milford Track (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 1.6 kilometers (1 mile), 0.5-1 hour

  • Day 8

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 8 Option A

    Great Walks of New Zealand: Cruise in Doubtful Sound, hike Routeburn Track

    After our cruise ends we’ll hike part of the Routeburn Track, the first of the Great Walks you’ll experience. We hike through beech forest, sub-alpine shrub land and picturesque alpine tarns, before reaching Key Summit. Here you’ll be standing at the head of three different valleys (the Hollyford, Eglinton and Greenstone), with stunning views over the Great Divide, which separates west and east flowing rivers. 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 (actually it’s a fiord!) Rudyard Kipling rated Milford the eighth natural wonder of the world and it’s truly breath-taking, with steep granite walls plunging over a thousand meters to the Tasman Sea and waterfalls cascading into deep inky water.

    Milford Lodge Chalets, Milford Sound (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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

  • Day 8 Option B

    Milford Track: Hike in beech forest

    We start the day by crossing Clinton River and hiking through lush beech forest to Hirere Falls, where we’ll have lunch. After crossing the prairie, the track gets a little steeper as we climb up to Pompolona Lodge. Today’s highlights include spectacular flora and stunning views up the ice-carved Clinton Canyon toward McKinnon Pass.

    Pompolona Lodge, Milford Track (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 16 kilometers (10 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation + 200 meters (665 feet)

  • Day 9

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 9 Option A

    Great Walks of New Zealand: Hike Milford Track, cruise Milford Sound

    It’s worth getting up early to take a photo of Mitre Peak, quite possibly the most photographed mountain in New Zealand, but your challenge is to find a unique angle! After breakfast, we’ll take a short boat ride across Milford Sound to hike from Sandfly Point to the Giant Gates waterfall, a spectacular section of the famed Milford Track. The forest here is lush and rich with mosses and ferns as we follow the Arthur River past Lake Ada. By hiking from the Milford Sound trailhead, we’ll enjoy the track to ourselves, which is a luxury others seldom get. Once we return to the Milford wharf, we’ll board a boat for a two-hour nature cruise to the head of this spectacular fiord. We’ll then leave Milford Sound behind to hike some lesser-known tracks in eastern Fiordland before returning to Te Anau.

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

    Hiking: 10 kilometers (6 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 300 meters (985 feet)

  • Day 9 Option B

    Milford Track: Hike McKinnon Pass

    Today is the most spectacular day of the Milford Track! We climb a series of switchbacks to cross McKinnon Pass and from the top, the views of Arthur Valley and the surrounding peaks are just magnificent. We’ll lunch at Pass Hut, then head down to Quintin Lodge. After some refreshments, a 90-minute round-trip hike will lead us to Sutherland Falls, the fifth highest waterfall in the world.

    Quintin Lodge, Milford Track (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 16 kilometers (9 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation + 700 meters (2,295 feet) / - 860 meters (2,820 feet)

  • Day 10

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 10 Option A

    Great Walks of New Zealand: Takahe Bird Park, hike Kepler Track

    This morning we’re heading for a Department of Conservation birdlife park in Te Anau. The center takes care of injured or aging birds which would struggle to survive in the wild - it’s a great opportunity to see some of our rarest birds up close, so don’t forget your camera! Afterwards, we’ll tick off our third Great Walk in three days - the Kepler Track. Interestingly, the Kepler Track differs from the Routeburn and Milford Tracks in that it didn’t actually evolve from a necessary Maori greenstone trail, but was custom-built for hiking. The section we’ll hike today passes over the control gates at the outlet of Lake Te Anau and meanders through ancient beech and podocarp forest.

    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 10 Option B

    Milford Track: Hike to Milford Sound

    This is your last day on the Milford Track. It’s 21 kilometers (13 miles) of varied terrain, slightly downhill, with no significant climbs. The small waterfalls to be found alongside the track make for a delightful hike today. At the trailhead at Sandfly Point, you’ll be picked up for a short cruise across Milford Sound to the marina, and arrive at Mitre Peak Lodge for a night. We’ll be staying at the only hotel in the area (Milford Track hikers have exclusive use of it), and with the memories of the last few days you’ll almost regret being back near civilization!

    Mitre Peak Lodge, Milford Sound (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 20 kilometers (13 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation +/- 220 meters (720 feet)

  • Day 11

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 11 Option A

    Great Walks of New Zealand: Gondola ride, hike Ben Lomond

    Today we’ll drive back along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown, and take a ride on the gondola to the top of a tree-covered rocky crag, known as Bob’s Peak, to start our alpine hike. We pass through open alpine tussockland to the Ben Lomond saddle and will be rewarded with panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the often snow-covered Southern Alps. For those keen to press on to the top, Ben Lomond’s summit reveals views of Mt. Earnslaw and Mt. Aspiring, two of New Zealand’s highest peaks, and even a glimpse of Aoraki/Mt. Cook on a clear day. Tonight we’ll dine out in Queenstown at one of the many excellent restaurants. Note: This trip option is also a bespoke 5-Day trip: Great Walks of New Zealand

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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

  • Day 11 Option B

    Milford Track: Cruise Milford Sound

    This morning, we’ll enjoy a cruise to explore the full length of Milford Sound and the ship’s captain will nose the boat right up to some magnificent waterfalls that plunge into the fiord. Keep your eyes open for native New Zealand fur seals relaxing on the rocks and the chance to spot dolphins swimming alongside us. An option when you return to Milford Sound village is to take a stunning scenic helicopter flight, which will have you back in Queenstown for a free afternoon to enjoy (scenic helicopter flight option approx. US$650 per person). The rest will take the scenic journey back to Queenstown via Te Anau and this evening we’ll meet up with those who chose the Great Walks of New Zealand to catch up on our Fiordland experiences over dinner.

    Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 12

    Hike Sam Summers Track, visit local winery

    #71

    After breakfast, we head out around Lake Wakatipu to the Mt. Crichton Scenic Reserve, where we’ll hike the Sam Summers Track. This area was mined for gold until the 1930s and there are still many relics to be seen along the way. After hiking, we’ll continue on to a local winery. This region’s dry and sunny climate is ideal for grape growing and is becoming well known for producing world-class pinot noir and other quality wines. We’ll enjoy a glass or two and then head to Lake Ohau Lodge. Here we’re staying beside a beautiful alpine lake, with stunning views stretching across to Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps - an ideal spot to soak in the hot tub!

    Lake Ohau Lodge, Lake Ohau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 7.4 kilometers (4.6 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 355 meters (1,165 feet)

  • Day 13

    Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

    #77

    A short distance away is Mt. Cook, named Aoraki or ‘cloud piercer’ by South Island Maori, the highest mountain in New Zealand. Directly opposite Aoraki/Mt. Cook, we have a stunning day hike to the main ridge above Mueller Glacier. This area has a unique alpine environment and includes endemic flora such as the Mt. Cook lily (Ranunculus lyallii), the world’s largest buttercup. Many of our clients have said this is the best hike they’ve ever done and it’s a fine way to finish off a great trip. It’s a bit of a hike, but you’ll remember the view of the glacier and the surrounding peaks forever! The weather conditions are very important in this area, as it’s a true alpine climate notorious for sudden weather shifts. If we aren’t able to do the Mueller Glacier hike, or you’d like to take it a little easier, there’s an impressive hike up to a glacial lake (complete with icebergs!) at the base of the Hooker Glacier. After hiking, we’ll relax at our lodge nestled right in the heart of Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park.

    We use a variety of accommodation for stays in this region (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Mueller Ridge Hike : 7.2 kilometers (4.4 miles), 5-6 hours, elevation +975 meters (3,200 feet)
    Hiking: OR Hooker Valley Hike : 9 kilometers (5.6 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 100 meters (328 feet)

  • Day 14

    Depart for home

    This is the last day of your trip and we’ll leave you refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you’ll have had with us in New Zealand! 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, Lunch)

Milford Track Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year

Looking for a shorter trip? Check out our 8-Day Classic South Island Adventure.

USD $7499/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 Milford Track Adventure

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Milford Track Adventure - February 2022

A very well run week of adventure

"A very well run week of adventure with the Team Leader being particularly impressive. read more

"A very well run week of adventure with the Team Leader being particularly impressive. read less

4 Stars (863 reviews)

Les, New Zealand

Milford Track Adventure - February 2022

A Taste of Everything and More!

"My husband and I have completed a few hiking/adventure trips, but the Takehe would have… read more

"My husband and I have completed a few hiking/adventure trips, but the Takehe would have to be one of our favourites now.
The itinerary was exceptional with a taste of three of the best walks in NZ, plus a Queenstown hike with incredible views, and an amazing Doubtful Sounds cruising experience. We were so pumped by our experiences that we added a couple of additional excursions (helicopter and paragliding flights) on the fly, and almost doubled the length of one of the walks because we were having so much fun!
Our guides - Elder and John, were exception. They took great care of our group and nothing was a problem. The meals they prepared were delicious and nutritious.
We can highly recommend this trip with Active Adventures - we certainly had an adventure of a lifetime! read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Leone, New Zealand

Milford Track Adventure - December 2021

Fabulous hiking adventure

"Just want to say Thanks on behalf of myself and Alan for providing us with… read more

"Just want to say Thanks on behalf of myself and Alan for providing us with such an awesome experience with this 'Takahe' Trip to Queenstown and Fiordland. Jon and Elder were just the best - knowledgeable, helpful, great driver (Jon),fabulous cooks, and all round good guys. We are grateful that Active Adventures kept our trip going, as we were aware there had been cancellations due to travel restrictions, but we felt pretty special and a little privileged to have just 4 of us being looked after by these 2 guys. The other couple were so lovely and we all got on really well. As for the hikes - well what can I say - every day was filled with stunning scenery, beautiful walks, and lucky for us, absolutely fabulous weather (every day!) read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Anne, New Zealand

Milford Track Adventure - April 2021

A great way to experience the highlights of Fiordland

"We loved the Takahe trip. The highlight for us our overnight cruise on… read more

"We loved the Takahe trip. The highlight for us our overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. The scenery was stunning and the boat was very comfortable. We upgraded to our own cabin which we thought was well worthwhile. The walks were very enjoyable and each was quite different. Our guides, Kim and Emma, were great. They clearly love what they are doing, we’re very knowledgeable and prepared excellent meals . read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Robert, New Zealand

Milford Track Adventure - March 2021

Takahe trek

"This trip was amazing from start to finish. The night on the Doubtful Sound… read more

"This trip was amazing from start to finish. The night on the Doubtful Sound was spectacular, aided in part by gorgeous weather. And the three Great Walk treks were all delightfully different and incredibly beautiful. Our guides, Kim and Emma, were professional, cheerful, and great cooks. And our group was super fun. read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Anne, United States

Milford Track Adventure - May 2020

Takahe Feb 2020

"A great trip, well led in extremely difficult circumstances by Kaleb and Irene caused by… read more

"A great trip, well led in extremely difficult circumstances by Kaleb and Irene caused by the Milford road collapse. Lots of views, superb hike up Ben Lomond read less

4 Stars (863 reviews)

David, United Kingdom

Milford Track Adventure - April 2020

Hiking the South Island with Active Adventures

"Anna and I really had the trip of a lifetime hiking the South Island with… read more

"Anna and I really had the trip of a lifetime hiking the South Island with 6 others and being guided about by Caleb and Ema. The trip was terrific and the company, both of our fellow hikers and our guides, was delightful. We will definitely be hiking again with Active read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

John, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

New Zealand in the Time of Corona

"Our trip was scheduled to start before the Covid-9 virus really started to take hold.… read more

"Our trip was scheduled to start before the Covid-9 virus really started to take hold. The Manuka far exceeded our expectations! The sites seen, the guides and the people we encountered were all amazing. The food was great and Ruby and Kaleb went the extra mile in every aspect. I particularly enjoyed Kalebs sharing of his knowledge ( which was extensive) of the geography, biology, and history of the land and places we went. The bus was comfortable, and our group size (9) was perfect. I feel very lucky to have gotten to do our trip before the crisis. I would highly recommend this trip, and these guides. read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Robin, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Great Trip!

"We had a terrific time on our Manuka trip in February, not only because the… read more

"We had a terrific time on our Manuka trip in February, not only because the South Island of New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places in the world, but because our Active Adventure guides, Pim and Astrid, took such good care of us and had such an enthusiasm for their country and the hikes and drives that we took for two weeks. They thought of everything, made us feel very comfortable, whether on one of the long drives or on a beautiful hike or over a delicious dinner that they prepared. And they were lots of fun to be with. read less

4 Stars (863 reviews)

Martha, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Hiking adventure of a lifetime!

"The Manuka trip with the Milford Track option fit my needs and desires perfectly! We… read more

"The Manuka trip with the Milford Track option fit my needs and desires perfectly! We arrived early in Christchurch so had time to enjoy that beautiful city and rest up from the long flight. Meeting Kaleb and Ruby made the adventure all the more special, as they were so personable, enthusiastic and knowledgable about the entire area. We covered some beautiful trails heading South to the Milford area and these hikes had me well prepared for the Milford hike to the Pass. The places we stayed gave me a feel for the New Zealand life outside the urban areas and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I can not say enough good things about our guides. Kaleb and Ruby E. were excellent. We had a great group of fellow travelers and I am so fortunate to have been able to enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Thanks to all at Active Adventures who helped make this journey possible. I hope to come back for other Great Walks in the future. New Zealand is certainly a paradise! read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Jan, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

10 out of 10! Manuka

"This was my favorite trip to date and that is saying something, indeed. The land… read more

"This was my favorite trip to date and that is saying something, indeed. The land of the long white cloud/Aotearoa is simply stunning - like a jewel box. Kiwis are "sweet as", meaning great. But the Active Adventure staff was the citronella and sweet almond oil (a clever recipe used to ward off the island's only real pest) behind this very well-oiled travel machine. They are the ultimate professionals - filled with encyclopedic knowledge, incredibly personable and patient, and so organized it is practically magical. Plus they have an obvious deep love for this bit of paradise on Earth. We had Ruby E and Kaleb, both of whom I would happily welcome into my home anytime - heck, I'd adopt them if they'd let me. They are imminently well-suited for the work they do and, if they are an indicator of AA's typical hiring practices, somebody there is a sociological/psychological genius. I could not be more impressed with AA or with NZ. Ma te wa, Aotearoa. Kia ora! read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Deirdre, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Excellent Guides

"I really enjoyed my trip with Active Adventures mainly because of our guides Ruby &… read more

"I really enjoyed my trip with Active Adventures mainly because of our guides Ruby & Caleb. They were very organized and provided a wealth of information during the trip. But the best part they were engaging to talk with and fun to be around! read less

4 Stars (863 reviews)

Tim, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Excellent trip

"I enjoyed everything about this trip. I especially thought that Ruby and Kaleb were excellent… read more

"I enjoyed everything about this trip. I especially thought that Ruby and Kaleb were excellent guides. They were both very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and helpful. They made the trip! read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Lynne, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Best trip ever!

"Kaleb and Ruby E were attentive and knowledgeable guides. Ruby’s cooking was amazing! Loved the… read more

"Kaleb and Ruby E were attentive and knowledgeable guides. Ruby’s cooking was amazing! Loved the peaceful and beautiful hikes. read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Randy, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Breathtaking Fiordland

"I enjoyed the variety of this trip that included boat rides and hiking on the… read more

"I enjoyed the variety of this trip that included boat rides and hiking on the Kepler and Milford tracks read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Jane, United States

Milford Track Adventure - March 2020

Takahe with Pim and Astrid

"This was truly a trip of a lifetime!!! I highly recommend the Takahe adventure… read more

"This was truly a trip of a lifetime!!! I highly recommend the Takahe adventure and if you are lucky, you will have Pim and Astrid as your guides. The Takeha walks were great - even though we lost out on one day of hiking due to severe rains - the path was washed out. Loved the variety that the Takeha offered : overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound, bird sanctuary, a variety of hikes and of course the day trek on the Milford track. Pim and Astrid were fabulous hosts and guides. Very welcoming, knowledgeable, kept us well fed, happy and on time!!! I was traveling solo on this trip - Pim and Astrid were welcoming right from the start and the group of 7 strangers quickly became friends, all due to their attitude and generous nature. This was a blast!!! Thank you so much! read less

5 Stars (863 reviews)

Sara, Canada

Doubtful Overnight Cruise
Doubtful Overnight

Accommodation

We have selected the accommodations on your trip for their stunning setting, unique character or adventuresome feel – they’re not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in New Zealand. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s, lodges and apartments.

If you do the Milford Track, you will be staying in private backcountry huts, in 4-6 people bunkrooms with shared bathrooms, or in your private room if you decide to upgrade (based on availability).

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.

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.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Merivale Manor at 10.30am or the Christchurch airport (CHC) in front of the Help Desk (near door 7) at 11am. 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 the Christchurch Airport (CHC) in time for flights below or anywhere in Central Christchurch around 3pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Christchurch by 10am. 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 Christchurch after 4pm. 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 trip, you’ll need a good level of fitness for the trip as it’s one of our more adventurous trips. Typically, hikes range between two and five 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 accommodations on your trip for their stunning setting, unique character or adventuresome feel – they’re not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in New Zealand. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s, lodges and apartments.

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, maybe twice, during your trip. The best time will be during your 2-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.

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 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 snow-capped 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.

Tell me about the Great Walks of New Zealand?

You’ll be spending three days hiking in Fiordland National Park on three different Great Walks – the Milford Track, the Routeburn track and the Kepler track before heading back to Queenstown to hike Ben Lomond! You’ll also get to visit Milford Sound, and take an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. This is the perfect option for those who want to experience a variety of hiking tracks, spend more time with our lovely Active Adventures New Zealand guides and explore the lesser known, though equally stunning Doubtful Sound – often referred to as Milford Sound on steroids!

You’ll say goodbye to the Milford Track hikers and enjoy a relaxed breakfast, before being whisked away, like royalty, to take an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound! The next day you’ll head into the Fiordland National Park to explore the Routeburn Track and Humboldt Falls down the Hollyford Valley. After a night in Milford Lodge, you’ll then hike part of the Milford Track in the morning before heading out of the National Park into Te Anau for two nights. Next morning you’ll explore the Kepler Track, yet another of New Zealand’s Great Walks and relax by the Lakefront, staying your second night in Te Anau. The next morning you’ll head back to Queenstown, taking a gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak looking over Queenstown. You’ll climb Ben Lomond and then give the legs a good rest before regrouping for dinner with the Milford Track hikers.

Tell me about the Milford Track?

You’ll be spending four days and four nights hiking in Fiordland National Park. The Milford Track is run by a local Queenstown operator, and is a popular route that starts near Te Anau and finishes with a cruise on Milford Sound. This trail is very popular so you will get to meet other travellers during this hike, though numbers are limited to 50 people a day. You’ll be hiking from lodge to lodge, carrying only wet weather gear, spare clothes and toiletries in your day pack, or a pack provided by us.

The night before your Milford Track option begins, you’re required to attend a pre-trip briefing. Here you’ll learn more about the track itself and meet some of your specialist Milford Track guides who look after you for this segment of your trip. The following morning you’ll be driven to Te Anau to catch a boat to the start of the track. Over the next four days you’ll hike 53 kilometres (33 miles) with the longest day being 21 kilometres (13 miles). You’ll be provided with a detailed itinerary at your pre-trip briefing. The final night on the track will be on the shores of Milford Sound. After cruising on Milford Sound the following morning you’ll get a bus back to Queenstown, arriving at about 4pm.

You’ll be given a medium-sized backpack (40 litres), a pack liner and a storage sack (20 litres) at your pre-trip briefing
in Queenstown. If you’ve chosen the dorm-share rooming option you’ll also be given a cotton sleep sheet. The evening
prior to departing you’ll divide your gear into three parts: Milford Track gear (for hiking), Milford Sound gear (for post-hike) and Queenstown gear (excess luggage). The next morning your Queenstown gear will be stored securely and you and your other two bags will go with you on the trip. You’ll take the backpack with you on the track, and the storage sack with your change of clean clothes will be transported to the end of the track to await your arrival in Milford Sound.

At the end of each day’s hiking you’ll arrive at the lodge for the evening. All the lodges are equipped with the comforts of home – towels, pillows and warm duvets, plus linen for those in private rooms. Shampoo, conditioner, soap, hand washing facilities and excellent drying rooms are provided at each lodge which allows you to keep your gear to a minimum. Electricity is generated at the lodges and at 10pm it’s turned off every night. Three-course meals, cooked breakfasts and picnic lunches are provided on the track. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase with dinner at the lodges and can be paid for on the last day at Mitre Peak Lodge with either cash or credit cards.

Rooming in the lodges is in 4-6 person dorms with bunk - style beds and shared bathroom facilities. There’s also the
option to upgrade to a private room with ensuite bathroom for an additional charge. If you’d like a private room please let us know as soon as possible as there are limited rooms available and they’re allocated on a first come, first serve basis. You can select from the following two options:

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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

Milford Track Adventure