The South Island of New Zealand has long been held sacred by nature lovers for its soaring alps, sweeping green valleys split by coursing rivers, pristine glacial-fed lakes, and incredible coastal beauty. Boundless Journeys has carefully crafted a hiking itinerary into the heart of it all, so you can connect to both the grandest vistas and the tiniest trailside details.
The locals call it "tramping"; we simply call it awe-inspiring, as we follow mountain-ringed footpaths, seaside walkways, and rainforest routes from east to west. All the while, we’ll reward each day’s efforts with the finest accommodations.
More than just another walk in the woods, this New Zealand adventure tour captures the full range of the South Island, whether we’re searching for dolphins and whales on the open sea, paddling a kayak into a rainforest Eden, experiencing local culture firsthand, or witnessing how merino wool is produced. Join us on a New Zealand Alpine and Coastal Hiking adventure into some of the world’s most magnificent wilderness.
Boundless Journeys specializes in all-inclusive small group tours around the world. Discover your next adventure abroad among our South Pacific tours.
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.
11 Days
Nov 8-18, 2026
Take over a date for your group! See "Make It Private" on Dates & Prices tab.
From $7,695 Per Person
First two reserved:$495
Additional:$995
See single supplement policy below.
Feb 4-14, 2027
Nov 8-18, 2027
$7,895 Per Person
First two reserved:$595
Additional:$1,095
MAKE IT PRIVATE
Call for pricing: 1 800 941 8010 or email [email protected]
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.
Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.
If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).
Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.
Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. New Zealand: Alpine & Coastal Hiking is rated 3, moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous).
The hikes on this trip are day hikes with minimal vehicle support. Because of the nature of the trails, we often hike "out and back" on the same trail.
The hikes will be moderate with some moderately strenuous options, 4-7 hours per day; also there will be easy flatwater kayaking options (no experience necessary).
Nelson, New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand
Most Convenient Airport for Arrival: Nelson Airport (airport code: NSN)
Most Convenient Airport for Departure:Queenstown Frankton Airport (airport code: ZQN)
Meeting Time and Place: Your guide(s) will meet you on the first day of your trip at 1:00 pm in the lobby of the Rutherford Hotel in Nelson. Please be dressed for hiking and ready to depart at that time.
Departure Time and Place: On the final day of the tour (Day 11) you will be transferring from Lake Moeraki to Queenstown, arriving in Queenstown in the early evening. Please do not schedule any departure flights on this day earlier than a 6:30 pm departure time.
Winter in New Zealand falls between June and August, while summer is from December to February. Average rainfall is approximately two inches per month, although the Southern Alps form a barrier to much of the precipitation coming in from the west. East of the mountains the climate is characteristically more dry, although as a maritime climate, the weather may change fairly rapidly.
You may find more detailed weather information at www.weatherbase.com.
New Zealand
High: 67 Low: 52
High: 64 Low: 48
Warmer months are, for us, the best time to travel to New Zealand. November is considered spring time and a very nice time to go. March is one of the best months to be in New Zealand as it is still quite warm and not overly crowded.
In the past decade, New Zealand has earned a reputation for its fine food. With an abundance of natural resources, and its strong agricultural tradition, New Zealand provides its chefs with an incredible bounty of ingredients to work with. You'll find a wide variety of fresh and saltwater seafood on most menus, including green-lipped mussels (prized worldwide for their nutritive qualities) and the New Zealand trout that is envied among fishermen everywhere. Lamb and farm-raised venison are staples and these, coupled with some of New Zealand's ample fresh produce, boutique cheeses, and local wines with an international reputation for excellent quality, make for some truly incredible meals! Even the casual fare is noteworthy: fish and chips or meat pies from "takeaway" shops are terrific, and don't forget to have fresh kiwi fruit while you visit — you'll never have it better. Vegetarians can be accommodated.
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.
The South Island of New Zealand has long been held sacred by nature lovers for its soaring alps, sweeping green valleys split by coursing rivers, pristine glacial-fed lakes, and incredible coastal beauty. Boundless Journeys has carefully crafted a hiking itinerary...
Moderate hiking, 4-8 hours per day; easy kayaking options (no experience necessary).
This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.
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