5 Stars (922 reviews)
It was my first visit to New Zealand and I was eager to learn about the country while being actively engaged in its exploration. Active Adventures went above and beyond all expectations in making this trip unforgettable! From some challenging hikes to biking, kayaking and boat cruising we were able to circle entire South Island and see its unparalleled beauty! We heard stories about history and traditions which made our experience more meaningful. Accommodations were great and so was the food!
Ultimate South Island Adventure, April 2024
Maya
5 Stars (922 reviews)
This was my first experience on the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. The planning, the trip, the itinerary and our guides Mel and Brogan were absolutely outstanding and professional and worked so very hard. Some days we had very long van days, however they broke it up so the trip was delightful. Transport to and from the airport was a nice feature. The days were action packed, the sights and activities we so rewarding. I feel like I had the opportunity to experience the entire South Island and all the beautiful parts of it. The free day came at a perfect time. Our group was small which made it nice for all of us. The meals made by the guides were superb and featured New Zealand cuisine and features products made in New Zealand, like Barkers. We were even able to make a trip there before we headed to the airport. The accommodations were lovely and had all the necessary amenities. NZ accommodations tended to have towel warmers which was delightful and also helpful to dry a small batch of laundry. The 3 day back country backpacking was hard, but worth it, the climb to Mueller's Ridge was hard, but worth it! All other adventure hikes, kayaking, biking were nice and rewarding as well. The travel wallet was good, options to use their insurance and their travel agent. The price/cost for the trip was just right. I worked with the travel agency they recommended, specifically I worked with Shelley Bartlett who was outstanding. I will definitely travel with Active Adventures again.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, March 2024
Wendy
5 Stars (922 reviews)
New Zealand provided a magnificent backdrop to an amazing Active Adventure trip. I enjoyed every second of this trip. Mel and Brogan, challenging tracks, beautiful views from William and magnificent vistas on our hikes, nutritious and delicious food and snacks, great accommodations, especially the Hermitage Hotel near Aoraki, the small stops along the way grabbing an ice cream, coffee or just stretching our legs and taking pictures (did that a lot), Mel and Brogan providing a ton of information on everything New Zealand, interactions with local people, I couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you. By, the way, did I mention Mel and Brogan?
Ultimate South Island Adventure, March 2024
Yvonne
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 (922 reviews)
We can't say enough good things about our trip. It was fabulous, fun, challenging and rewarding. Our guides Jess & Jacob were wonderful in that they were very detailed regarding everyone's individual needs. They were VERY organized, had us on the move every day. They made it fun and made modifications if they needed to according to our group. The trip was everything as described on your website. The trails were different each day, the meals were wonderful (Jess & Jacob are awesome chefs), the accommodations were great, transportation was good.............like I said we can say enough good things, we loved it!!
Ultimate South Island Adventure, February 2024
Mary
5 Stars (922 reviews)
Our hiking group to chose to use Active Adventures based on positive reviews and recommendations from friends who have toured with them. We could not have been more pleased with our choice. My personal experience was top notch. Our team leaders/guides were amazing, the itinerary was indeed full and active, fun and interesting, and took us to the most beautiful places on the island. Lodgings and food was terrific too. The trip was seamless from beginning to end.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, February 2024
Marianne