DESCRIPTION:

New Zealand’s South Island is an endless spectacle of magnificent scenery and is a haven for the country’s diverse wildlife. In addition to offering the must-see highlights, this offers an off-the-beaten track look at what New Zealand is famous for: its natural beauty. This program offers it all—nature, culture, mountains, charming cities, and remote hideaways that few visitors witness.

 

Tour Queenstown, the gateway to New Zealand's South Island and an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the Southern Alps. Also spend time in Queenstown, on the shore of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. Queenstown is adventure country par excellence. Visit the French-influenced town of Akaroa, and Blenheim, the great wine-growing region of New Zealand.

 

These city gateways provide excellent jumping-off points for truly special natural places. One highlight of this program is a stop where marine life abounds and a whale watching trip brings views of the resident pod of sperm whales. Another highlight is the Fox Glacier, to enjoy an opportunity to trek up through rainforest into the icy landscape of the alpine scenery of the Southern Alps. Spend a night cruising through the rugged scenery of Doubtful Sound, pristine to this day and boasting spectacular towering cliffs clothed in luxuriant rainforest. Look for seals, explore the shoreline with our nature guide, and even kayak in the Sound if you like. Take a beautiful drive from Queenstown to the remote and unspoiled beauty of Haast Pass and onto a remote and pristine lake known primarily to New Zealanders, home to crested penguin and fur seal colonies. Kayak and enjoy nature walks under the stars.

 

CONSIDER:

For groups of 15+, consider traveling by private vintage DC-3 airplane. It enables you to quickly and easily access remote destinations otherwise too difficult to see in just one trip. Plus, no airport lines or waiting around, and champagne service en route, make this method of travel smooth and exciting.

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Visit the remote, windswept Chatham Islands or travel to the North Island (Wellington, Rotorua and Auckland).