10 Day Southern Sounds, Alps & Glaciers

This morning you will board the TranzAlpine Train for one of the world’s great scenic train trips that will take you across the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains before a slow climb into the Southern Alps. From here you will marvel at views of the stunning Waimakiriri River gorge and alpine scenery on a series of breathtaking viaducts.

After a brief stop at Arthur’s Pass you will enter one of New Zealand’s longest tunnels, the Otira Tunnel and subsequently descend through a deep valley of sub tropical rainforest over a broad shallow river into the small town of Greymouth. Join your coach in Greymouth and travel through Hokitika to the glacier region. Stay 2 nights Franz Josef Glacier.

Today you have a whole day at leisure. Perhaps enjoy a guided walk, a heli-hike or a scenic flight from the Franz Josef township. If you’d prefer a relaxing day, head to the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools that are nestled amongst the lush rainforest of the glacier country or meander through the village where you will find a wonderful selection of gifts, artwork, merchandise and cafes.

Treat yourself and upgrade your accommodation in Franz Josef to the 5 star Te Waonui Forest Retreat, a luxury lodge hotel nestled amongst native West Coast rainforest. Our upgrade package includes luxurious accommodation, dinner on the first night – an indulgent 5 course degustation menu in The Canopy Restaurant, and a la carte breakfast both mornings. We’ve also included a stunning Franz Josef Heli Hike to help you make the most of your time in the region. Ask us for a price!

Farewell Franz Josef and travel down the West Coast, alongside braided riverbeds, native forests and roadside waterfalls before climbing up over the Haast Pass and through Mount Aspiring National Park. Stop the car, stretch your legs and drink in the scenery, as impressive mountains touch the sky, remnants of the Ice Age glacial valley. Take your time and drive along the shores of Lakes Hawea, arriving at the action-packed city of Queenstown.

Today is at your leisure to enjoy the many sights as well as activities in and around Queenstown. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shores of the pristine Lake Wakatipu, and in the evening experience an optional cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw (own expense) or if you’re planning a more active trip, then there are a myriad of activities you can take part in including jet boating, bungy jumping, skydiving, ziptreking, quad biking, snowshoeing, National Park walks and off-road 4WD tours!

Travel by coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. Continue along the spectacular Milford Road and through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound where you board the Milford Mariner for a relaxing cruise. Cruise the entire length of the Sound to the Tasman Sea, viewing spectacular waterfalls, rainforests, mountains and wildlife.

The Milford Mariner is designed along the lines of a traditional New Zealand trading scow to reflect Fiordland’s heritage and you will be accommodated in private cabins with en-suite bathrooms in this purpose-built vessel. It boasts spacious deck areas for viewing the wilderness, scenery and wildlife of Milford as well as activities which include kayaking and excursions in the tender vessels (stabi craft) to explore the coastline. (Overnight cruise does not operate 21 May – 15 September) (D)

In the morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) and exploring more of the fiord. Board your coach and return to Queenstown mid afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

Up grade your itinerary to return to Queenstown on a scenic flight taking in the magnificent views of the alps, glaciers, lakes and forests of Fiordland National Park – a quick and convenient way to return to Queenstown. (Duration 35mins)

The flight shaves off approximately 4 hours off a return by coach. It is however very weather dependent, so if the weather doesn’t play ball, then you will need to return by coach and we will refund the upgrade price.

Depart Queenstown and travel through Omarama before heading up over the Lindis Pass – this is the area where gold was first discovered in the Central Otago region in 1861. Central Otago has a harsh but beautiful landscape due to its summer heat and winter cold. A lot of gold was discovered in the area in the late 1800’s. More recently in the late 1900’s it’s been discovered as a great place for growing grapes – perfect for wine and food fanatics.

The afternoon is free to explore the area and take one of the many short walks starting from Mt Cook Village.

This morning you will embark on a fascinating tour of the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. An experienced guide will whisk you away in a stable MAC Boat to explore the melting ice-face of the glacier. Touch and taste 400 year old icebergs that have been carved into the murky waters of the lake.

This afternoon re-board your coach, heading northbound for Christchurch. On your way you visit beautiful Lake Tekapo and view the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd before crossing the vast Canterbury Plains, arriving in the evening.

Sadly your trip has come to an end. We hope that you have thoroughly enjoyed your experiences in New Zealand. Today you will be met at your accommodation and transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Have a safe trip home.