New Zealand hiking tours offer some of the most breathtaking outdoor experiences in the world, especially on the South Island of New Zealand. The South Island is a natural paradise, with stunning scenery and an abundance of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Here are some of the best hikes to explore in the South Island of New Zealand.
New Zealand hiking tours offer some of the most breathtaking outdoor experiences in the world, especially on the South Island of New Zealand. The South Island is a natural paradise, with stunning scenery and an abundance of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Here are some of the best hikes to explore in the South Island of New Zealand.
Milford Track
The Milford Track is one of the most famous hikes in New Zealand and one of the best multi-day hikes on the South Island. This hike can take four days to complete, but it’s worth it for the stunning scenery, which includes glaciers, rainforests, and mountains. The Milford Track begins at the northern end of Lake Te Anau and ends at Milford Sound, one of the most spectacular natural attractions in New Zealand.
Routeburn Track
Another one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Routeburn Track is a multi-day hike that can take up to four days to complete. The trail begins at the Routeburn Track Trailhead, located between Queenstown and Milford Sound. The trail takes hikers through the Southern Alps and features breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and valleys.
Hooker Valley Track
Hooker Valley Track is a day hike that takes hikers through the stunning Hooker Valley in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The trail begins at the White Horse Hill Campsite and follows the Hooker River through grasslands and into the Hooker Valley. Hikers will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Ben Lomond Summit
The Ben Lomond Summit hike is located near Queenstown and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Wakatipu. This challenging hike can take six to eight hours and begins at the Skyline Gondola car park. Hikers will pass through lush native beech forest before reaching the summit, which stands at an elevation of 1,748 meters.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the South Island’s hidden gems, with an abundance of hiking trails that offer stunning views of surrounding mountains and valleys. One of the most beautiful hikes in the park is the Rob Roy Glacier Track, which takes hikers through lush forests, across streams and waterfalls, and up to a stunning glacier.
Wanaka
Wanaka is a charming alpine town that is a popular base for hikers exploring the South Island’s natural beauty. The town has several hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, including the challenging Roy’s Peak hike, which offers sweeping views of Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand, including towering mountains, deep fiords, and dense forests. One of the best hikes in the park is the Kepler Track, a multi-day hike that takes hikers through stunning alpine landscapes and past glacial lakes.
Abel Tasman Coastal Track
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a multi-day hike that takes hikers through stunning coastal scenery, including golden beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush forests. The hike begins at Marahau and ends at Wainui Bay, and can take up to five days to complete.
Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track is a beautiful hike that takes hikers along the stunning Marlborough Sounds. This multi-day hike can take up to four days to complete and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
South Island’s West Coast
The West Coast of the South Island is home to some of New Zealand’s most rugged and wild landscapes, with plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. One of the best hikes in this area is the Fox Glacier Valley Walk, which takes hikers through lush forests and up to the Fox Glacier, one of the most famous glaciers in New Zealand.
When planning a hiking tour in the South Island of New Zealand, it’s important to keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so hikers should be prepared for a variety of conditions. Make sure to bring clothing that can withstand changing weather, such as waterproof jackets and sturdy hiking boots. It’s also a good idea to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, the South Island of New Zealand offers an abundance of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. From multi-day hikes like the Milford Track and the Routeburn Track to day hikes like the Hooker Valley Track and the Rob Roy Glacier Track, the South Island has something for everyone. With its stunning natural scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife, a hiking tour in the South Island of New Zealand is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.