5 Stars (240 reviews)
The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won over by New Zealand’s stunning scenery and natural beauty! More than this though, the success of the trip was due, in large measure, to our two superlative guides, Emma and Elize. Both guides did their jobs superbly: Emma is a fantastic cook who put heart and soul, indeed love, into her cooking. Every meal she prepared was delicious and well presented. Elize is an excellent driver - steady and considerate, making us feel safe throughout the long distances covered over 14 days. As hiking guides, both enhanced our hiking experience with their knowledge of flora and fauna. They also kept us entertained with local stories and legends. Both put in so much effort to give us an unforgettable holiday, and even went out of their way and beyond the call of duty to help us on 2 occasions. They were exceptional!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Juniper
5 Stars (377 reviews)
Wonderful experience exploring Patagonia - outstanding guide (CEM), spectacular scenery and great food.
CEM went out of his way to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommend any trip with him. He was the best guide! Our group named him "Guide of the Year" to our farewell dinner.
Patagonia Hiking Adventure, March 2024
Michelle
4 Stars (377 reviews)
The Patagonia adventure was epic. Our guide, CEM, was an experienced professional who cared about each of us.
Patagonia Hiking Adventure, March 2024
Mary
5 Stars (540 reviews)
This was an absolutely fabulous trip. Every step of the trip was smooth and all details taken care of. Beautiful country and our guides were spectacular (Liana & Lauren). The accommodations were great, food was good, and the narrative by Liana was second to none. She described in beautiful detail everywhere we went and the history (maori legends included) of each town and sight we saw. Lauren was a perfect partner to her in making sure we were well fed and all details taken care of.
I would gladly do another trip with Active Adventures or even Austin Adventures. Will only hope I get Liana and Lauren again.
Classic South Island Adventure, March 2024
Tomi
4 Stars (922 reviews)
Greg and Max were fantastic guides. They were positive and made the trip a joy to experience. If they were guaranteed to be my guide for other trips then I would sign up for a trip again in the future. Not only were they our tour guides, chefs, and drivers, but they also were wonderful teachers sharing their passion for New Zealand.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, March 2024
Courtney
5 Stars (922 reviews)
A bit apprehensive at first about a guided tour, on a bus, etc but after the first day with Max and Greg at the wheel settled in to letting them be the excellent guides they are. Saw much more than previous trip I did on my own; secret places with thorough explanations Especially nice after an arduous day of hiking to have a gourmet meal cheerfully prepared by our guide! The last evening after another tough hike (how many thousand steps?) of crashing glaciers, we were entertained by both on the piano, bringing the history and ambiance of the Hermitage alive!
Ultimate South Island Adventure, March 2024
Patrick
5 Stars (922 reviews)
Wonderful introduction to the South Island of New Zealand through hiking plus limited amounts of kayaking, biking and heli-hiking experiences. Our guides, Greg & Max, were outstanding. Greg provided insight into New Zealand history, geology and horticulture. The hikes were well thought out and gave the entire group access to areas we would unlikely have done on our own (including obtaining all of the necessary permits on the Great Hikes). Max was an excellent chef for the breakfast, lunch and dinner meals we did not eat out. The guides did a nice job integrating everyone on the trip which can be difficult when people meet each other and are then together for 14 days! Highlight of the trip (if I had to pick just one…..and there were many) was the hike in Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park to conclude the adventure.
We are already plotting out next trip back to New Zealand!
Ultimate South Island Adventure, March 2024
Rob
5 Stars (540 reviews)
Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and very knowledgeable guides who take you as far and as deep into the country as you want. - Angus, Toronto, Canada.
Classic South Island Adventure, March 2024
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