This 9 day round trip from Christchurch brings you to all the South Island’s natural highlights and historic cities in fully escorted comfort.
Early arrivals to the historic city of Christchurch might consider a visit to the International Antarctic Centre or the Air Force Museum, before hopping the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps to Franz Josef, home of the namesake glacier. Explore the Haast River Valley by safari jetboat before going on to the adventure capital of Queenstown.
A Mecca for skiers, Queenstown puts you in the heart of the South Island’s mountain landscape. Freedom of Choice Touring options let you choose from a range of activities, such as a double decker bus tour, or a jetboat ride on the Shotover River (a Queenstown favourite). Then go on to Te Anau to enjoy a cruise along the full length of Milford Sound, a breathtaking, 16km long fjord carved by glaciers out to the Tasman Sea.
The beautiful, Scottish-influenced town of Dunedin offers yet more options for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Visit the Royal Albatross and Yellow-eyed Penguin colonies of Otago Peninsula, or spook yourself at Larnach Castle, a Dunedin landmark with a dark past, where close to 30 encounters with ‘cranky spirits’ have been reported. A northbound journey along the coast takes you to visit the unique Moeraki Boulders on your way to Mt Cook National Park. Take a guided nature walk, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or try a stargazing experience with an expert astronomy guide. Cap off your day with an exclusive stay at The Hermitage, with views of majestic Mt Cook – known to the Maori as ‘Cloud Piercer’ – before returning to Christchurch.
