Ultimate Explorer
New Zealand, discover this 28-day trip
Trip Description
Accomodation
Stay program
day 1
AUCKLAND - HOT WATER BEACHDeparture from Auckland at 10am for the Coromandel, renowned for its natural beauty, misty rainforests, and white, pristine sandy beaches. Enjoy the view on a beautiful coastal walk or discover the coast by sea kayak. Visit the unique and famous hot water beach to dig, then relax in your own thermal pool! Admire the breathtaking scenery and get your cameras ready for spectacular sunrises at our beach campsite. Meals included: Dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Sea kayaking
day 2
HOT WATER BEACH - ROTORUAThe morning is filled with activities as we head south, into the thermal wonderland of Rotorua. On the way, those visiting Hobbiton leave us at Matamata to continue on to the cultural and geological heart of the North Island, the perfect place to discover Maori culture and the spectacular natural hot springs of Rotorua. There are many activities to choose from, such as zip lining, OGO, luge, or biking in the Whakarewarewa forest. We recommend ending your day with a Maori cultural experience at the Tamaki Maori Village. There really is something for everyone! Meals included: Breakfast and lunch Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Hobbiton, Tamaki Maori Village, OGO, luge, hot pools, zipline canopy tour.
day 3
ROTORUA - TURANGIEnjoy a relaxed departure the day before visiting the geysers and mud pools in the thermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu (included for free). First, we visit the Lady Knox Geyser before exploring one of the largest geothermal networks in New Zealand, a unique landscape with its colorful sulfur lakes and various volcanic views. We then take time to explore the impressive Huka Falls before arriving in Taupo, considered the adrenaline capital of the North Island. Test your fear of heights on the giant swing, bungee jumping, or skydiving—the scenery is worth it! We finish the day with a beautiful walk along Lake Taupo towards the Turangi camp. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Bungee jumping, giant swing, Wai-O-Tapu (it's free for us!), white water rafting.
day 4
TURANGI - PAEKAKARIKIToday, you have the chance to experience the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered the best one-day hike in New Zealand. This route offers a remarkable journey through volcanic landscapes. Lava flows, emerald-colored lakes, magnificent views, and steaming vents make this hike an unforgettable moment. For those who do not enjoy hiking, it is possible to take short walks in the area or to cycle on the Tongariro River trail. After the hike, we head south and stay on the Kapiti Coast, in a small quiet place called Paekakariki. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cabin upgrade available: yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Tongariro Alpine Crossing, white-water rafting (grade 3 rapids).
day 5
PAEKAKARIKI - WELLINGTON - PICTONHeading south towards "the coolest little capital in the world" (as recently named by Lonely Planet), our early arrival around 9am gives you time to discover some of Wellington's attractions or simply soak up the culture and atmosphere of our capital. There is something for everyone, including the highly recommended Te Papa Museum. Go see rare New Zealand birds at Zealandia or take a trip up Mount Victoria for breathtaking views of the city and harbour. Later in the day, it will be time to say goodbye to the North Island, as the South Island welcomes us with the picturesque landscape of the Marlborough Sounds as we cross the Cook Strait by ferry. Camping is not possible tonight, which is why we are staying in a very friendly hostel where dorm beds are reserved for everyone on board (payable on site). Meals included: Breakfast Hostel costs: Dorm beds from $30 per person, private single/double room from $72. Optional activities (at your own expense): Te Papa Museum (free), City & movie tour, Zealandia
day 6
PICTON - KAIKOURAToday, we travel along the picturesque Pacific coast to Kaikoura, where encounters with seals and seabirds are frequent. Kaikoura means "crayfish meal" (Kai - food, koura - crayfish), a reference to the abundance of seafood and marine life in the region. The town has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a hotspot for whale watching, swimming with dolphins, and seal spotting. This picturesque town is located by the ocean, at the foot of the mountains, a spectacular place. Stretch your legs with a recommended walk on the peninsula in the afternoon and work up an appetite for a delicious feast of fresh, locally caught seafood. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes - limited options Optional activities (at your own expense): Whale watching, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing
day 7
KAIKOURA - CHRISTCHURCH - RANGITATAFor those who wish, it is possible to get up early to admire a wonderful sunrise and enjoy one of our most popular optional activities: swimming with dolphins. The resident dolphins are among the most interactive and entertaining in the world, and it is not uncommon to swim with groups of 50 or more in their natural habitat, the ocean! We then have the chance to explore this picturesque seaside town before heading south towards Christchurch, to pick up and drop off those who are starting or ending their tour. You will have time to explore the city of Christchurch and buy your lunch in one of the many quirky container cafés at the Restart Mall. At 2:30 pm, we head towards the Southern Alps with a fantastic view of the Canterbury Plains, true Lord of the Rings country! Tonight, the unique campsite is at the Shearers' Quarters (a currently operating farm) located at the foot of the Southern Alps. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes, yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Swimming with dolphins, dolphin watching
day 8
RANIGTATA - LAKE PUKAKIWake up with a view of the mountains and refresh yourself with even more white-water rafting on the mighty Rangitata River! If rafting isn't for you, no problem: enjoy a morning bike ride or a walk in the Peel Forest. We then continue through more endless landscapes (they don't stop in the South Island) to the living postcard that is Lake Tekapo. Here, you will see the most spectacular turquoise waters, which get their color from the glacial flour brought by rivers descending from the glaciers high in the mountains. Leaving Tekapo, we head to one of our best wilderness camps, on the shores of Lake Pukaki. You can set up your tent and admire the view of the lake, with New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook, visible in the distance. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cabin upgrade available: no – beautiful lakeside campsite (alternatives will be found in case of bad weather) Optional activities (at your own expense): white-water rafting (grade 5 rapids!), horse riding
day 9
LAKE PUKAKI - MT COOK - MOERAKIImmerse yourself in the snowy mountain landscapes that make New Zealand famous and explore Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Walk to the base of New Zealand's highest mountain by following a trail in the Hooker Valley, where you will cross suspension bridges and have breathtaking views of the mountains before ending at a glacial lake with a view of the Hooker Valley glacier. We then return to the Pacific coast for a quick stop in the historic town of Oamaru before continuing to the small village of Moeraki. Walk to a beautiful viewpoint offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and try to spot a little blue penguin along the coast. If you have a bike, it is possible to visit a colony of extremely rare yellow-eyed penguins near the camp. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Cabin upgrade possible: Yes - limited options Optional activities (own expense): n/a
day 10
MOERAKI - DUNEDINBefore heading south, we make a stop at the nearby Moeraki Boulders, then we stop in the historic Scottish city of Dunedin, the second largest city on the South Island. This southern city is home to the steepest residential street in the world and the coast is home to fantastic and rare wildlife. It is possible to take a tour on the Otago Peninsula to observe some of this diverse wildlife, which includes the albatross and the fur seal. For adventurers, why not try surfing at one of Dunedin's best spots! Our camp is a short distance from the beach, with a variety of restaurants nearby. Meals included: Breakfast Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Speight's Brewery tour, surfing, Otago Peninsula wildlife tour.
day 11
DUNEDIN - FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARKToday is one of our longest travel days, as we cross some of New Zealand's most spectacular natural landscapes en route to Fiordland. Large parts of the landscape have been sculpted over thousands of years, leaving breathtaking trails that wind through snow-capped mountains. We stop briefly at Te Anau, the hub and gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, as well as your last chance to get supplies for those doing the Routeburn Track tomorrow. From Te Anau, we make our way into the gigantic Fiordland National Park, which covers some 12,500 km² and is the largest national park in New Zealand. Tonight, the camp is a very special place, located in the heart of the Hollyford Valley, established in the 1930s. You can learn more about the camp's history by visiting the on-site museum. Cyclists have the chance to ride to the camp through native bush, and hikers can take short walks from the camp (ask your guide about the secret glowworm trails). Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes - limited options Optional activities (own expense): n/a
day 12
FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK - MILFORD SOUND - TE ANAUTravel along one of the most scenic roads in the world to Milford Sound! Described as the "eighth wonder of the world," Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the ice age. We highly recommend taking a boat tour on Milford Sound, with spectacular waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and the chance to spot dolphins, penguins, and seals! As this is the only road in and out, we take the same breathtaking route back to our lakeside campsite at Te Anau. Along the way, we drop off those doing the 3-day Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand's 9 Great Walks. This 3-day hike crosses two national parks and is a haven for native birds. Recharge your camera, as this hike offers you everything: mountain peaks and steep rock faces, pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and dense, lush forest. Meals included: Breakfast and lunch Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Milford boat cruise, Routeburn Track, Te Anau, glowworm caves, and boat ride.
day 13
TE ANAU - QUEENSTOWNToday, we are heading to Queenstown along the shores of the photogenic Lake Wakatipu. Once arrived in the adventure capital of New Zealand, you can enjoy spectacular views, a free gondola ride, and a wide range of activities. Everything is here: from adrenaline with bungee jumping, canyoning, and skydiving, to a relaxing horseback ride or a boat cruise. This place has it all. There are superb trails around the lake, ideal for mountain bikers and hikers, all offering magnificent views of this alpine region. Meals included: Breakfast Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): There are too many to list them all, there is something for everyone (see our website or ask us for details).
day 14
QUEENSTOWNWith so many things to do, we spend the entire day in fantastic Queenstown, with the opportunity to enjoy these unique experiences (don't forget to try the legendary and very tasty Fergburger!). The Routeburn Track walkers rejoin the group here at noon to try some of the many exciting activities this vibrant town has to offer. Tonight, we dine in one of Queenstown's many delicious restaurants – a great opportunity for your group to enjoy a real Kiwi feast (at your own expense). Meals included: Breakfast Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): There are too many to list, there's something for everyone (see our website or ask us for details).
day 15
QUEENSTOWN - MAKARORAOur last morning in Queenstown, and your last chance to indulge in Queenstown's action before we say goodbye to those finishing their tour and welcome the new travelers joining us here. Departure at 2:30 pm. After the thrills and excitement of Queenstown, we cross more mountains and continue towards other stunning glacial lakes. On the final stretch to the campsite, we begin to catch sight of Mt Aspiring National Park in the distance. Lake Wanaka is just beyond the next ridge, and it is on the shore of this glacial lake that we set up our next wild campsite. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains while admiring the beauty of the region. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: No – beautiful lakeside campsite (alternatives will be found in case of bad weather) Optional activities (at your own expense): There are too many to list them all, there is something for everyone (see our website or ask us for details).
day 16
MAKARORA - FOX GLACIEREnjoy a relaxed morning at our lakeside campsite, then head north through Mt Aspiring National Park. Just before reaching the West Coast, we stop for a walk to the amazing Blue Pools, then head towards the spectacular Haast Pass. Continuing towards the wild West Coast, the road follows braided rivers and immense valleys carved by glaciers. Two more walking options are available: one through ancient, lush forests, the other through marshy vegetation, ending on the beach where it is possible to spot Hector's dolphins. Tonight, we will spend the night in the picturesque village of Fox Glacier, in glacier country. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cabin upgrade available: yes, yes Optional activities (own expense): n/a
day 17
FOX GLACIER - OKARITOToday is the opportunity to explore one of New Zealand's most unique and spectacular natural wonders: the Fox Glacier. This magnificent work of nature stretches over 13 kilometers in length and drops 2,600 meters from its summit in the Southern Alps. To get onto the ice, you need to take a helicopter, but it is also possible to admire the glacier during a superb walk in the main valley up to the terminal face. A walk around Lake Matheson is highly recommended, as the crystal-clear reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman offer an ideal opportunity for taking photos. In the afternoon, we take a short drive along the coast to our beautiful campsite on the edge of the Okarito lagoon, one of the few places where you can still observe our native kiwis and the only colony of white herons (kotuku) in New Zealand. Enjoy a wood fire on the beach while admiring the rugged coast and the epic view of the mountains. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Cabin upgrade possible: Yes - some nights only Optional activities (at your own expense): Guided hike, walk, skydiving
day 18
OKARITO - PUNAKAIKIEnjoy a morning walk, with a view of the sunrise over the Southern Alps as your reward. We then continue along this spectacular coastal road to the quirky town of Hokitika, home to the Greenstone factories and an ideal place to pick up a traditional souvenir of your visit. Passing through Greymouth, we continue to follow the coast to Punakaiki, where you will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation, with the appearance of huge limestone cliffs and Nikau palms becoming abundant. Our beach camp offers stunning sunsets, a beautiful river, and incredible views of Paparoa National Park. The Pancake Rocks and blowholes are the main attraction in Punakaiki, where the limestone rocks are stacked on top of each other and ocean swells are forced through holes in the rock, creating a whale-blow effect. In the evening, explore a cave with glowworms hanging out in the darkness, then relax at the local tavern. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes - limited options Optional activities (own expense): n/a
day 19
PUNAKAIKI - ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARKBefore leaving Punakaiki, we take the time to explore part of Paparoa National Park by walking along the Porarari River or taking the Bullock Creek road to visit a resurgence cave. Leaving in the middle of the morning, we head inland through the majestic Buller Gorge and our favorite national park, Abel Tasman. In one of the sunniest regions of the country, you will discover beautiful secluded bays and splendid golden sandy beaches. Upon arrival, you have the option to go skydiving or hang gliding. We look forward to spending 3 nights at our perfectly located campsite, near the park entrance, making it the ideal place to explore every corner of the park. Meals included: Breakfast Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): Skydiving, hang gliding
day 20
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARKBy taking the time to explore the best beaches and the clearest waters of New Zealand – there are excellent options for everyone here – you can walk, sail, or kayak around the many golden bays and dive into the crystal-clear waters along the way. There will be plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching (dolphins, seals, and even orcas!). Explore the heart of the park during one of our most popular optional activities: canyoning, high-flow waterfalls, and rapids! Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cabin upgrade available: yes Optional activities (at your own expense): single or multi-day kayaking options, canyoning, sailing, horse riding, taxi/walk, conservation tour, conservation projects (free)
day 21
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARKWe spend another whole day in the smallest, but also the most visited national park in New Zealand, which is our favorite: Abel Tasman. Included meals: breakfast and dinner Possibility to upgrade the cabin: yes Optional activities (at your own expense): kayaking, canyoning, sailing, horse riding, taxi/walk, conservation tour, conservation projects (free)
day 22
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK - PICTON - WELLINGTONBy leaving early, we head towards Wellington, stopping for a brief visit in Nelson, the sunny city of Flying Kiwi. Before leaving Nelson, make sure to say goodbye to your tour assistant, as a new tour assistant will join you here for the rest of your tour. Your guide will bid you farewell in Picton. On the way to Picton, make a stop at Pelorus Bridge, a filming location for a Hobbit movie and a great spot for a quick swim on a hot day. Finish this fantastic day with a scenic ferry ride (cost included) through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds to Wellington, our base for the evening. Camping is not possible in the heart of the nation's capital, which is why we will stay in a large hostel that will give you the best access to explore the city. We have dorm beds reserved for everyone on board (payable on site). Meals included: Breakfast Hostel costs: Dorm bed from $31, basic single room from $75, basic double room from $89. Optional activities (own cost): n/a
day 23
WELLINGTON - NEW PLYMOUTHEnjoy a quiet breakfast (at your own expense) before visiting the sights of the beautiful New Zealand capital, then hit the road for our 11am departure. We travel up the picturesque Kapiti Coast towards the Taranaki region, home to beautiful beaches, rolling waves, and the spectacular Mount Taranaki, one of the most symmetrical volcanic cones in the world. Our campsite is located on the Taranaki coast and offers a short scenic walk or bike ride to camp at the end of the day. Meals included: Dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes - limited options Optional activities (own expense): n/a
day 24
NEW PLYMOUTH - AUCKLANDWe leave early towards the land of the limestone wonders of the Waitomo caves, which are home to an endemic species of glowworms inhabiting the vast underground systems. Black water rafting is a unique way to discover the caves, floating through the underground labyrinth, guided by the radiant light of the glowworms. We take the time to have a picnic before heading to the City of Sails, the largest city in New Zealand, to experience urban life kiwi-style. It's also a great opportunity to meet up with your group for a taste of the harbor's bars and restaurants. Camping is not possible in the heart of the country's largest city. Therefore, we will be staying in a youth hostel, which will offer you the best access to explore the city. This accommodation is payable locally and we have dormitory beds reserved for everyone on board. Meals included: Breakfast and lunch Hostel costs: Dormitory bed from $39, basic single room from $72, basic double room from $85. Optional activities (at your own expense): Black water rafting, visit to a glowworm cave.
day 25
AUCKLAND - BAY OF ISLANDSLeaving Auckland at 10 a.m., we head towards the "winterless north" and the pristine beaches of the Bay of Islands. We stop at the incredible Uretiti Beach for a swim and a walk on the sand. Grab a rugby ball and a frisbee from the bus and refresh your passing skills at this picturesque beach spot. Upon arrival in Paihia, the gateway town to the Bay of Islands, choose between the mangrove walk or a beautiful bike ride to the thundering Haruru waterfall. Meals included: Dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes - limited options Optional activities (at your own expense): Waitangi Treaty House (Maori culture), twilight kayaking
day 26
BAY OF ISLANDSSpend a whole day exploring the Bay of Islands and its turquoise waters. This subtropical region is the ideal playground for water lovers and a perfect place to enjoy the sun. With its 144 islands, the Bay of Islands offers diving, sailing, swimming, and fishing, as well as excellent walks through native forests leading to tranquil beaches and exceptional viewpoints. This region is also home to some of New Zealand's oldest European settlements and many historic buildings. Meals included: breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade possible: yes - limited options Optional activities (at your own expense): sailing, fishing, diving, swimming with dolphins, kayaking, parasailing, Maori culture.
day 27
BAY OF ISLANDS - OREWAThere is a day full of adventures waiting for us as we head to the west coast, a wild and soulful coast. Our first stop is an opportunity to try your windsurfing technique, or, if you don't feel like going down the sandy slopes, there is a beautiful coastal walk. Then, back on board, we head south towards the Waipoua Forest, through the largest stretch of native kauri forests in the north of the country. We leave the west coast and return east, towards our final destination, and camp tonight at Orewa. One of the longest and safest beaches in the Auckland area is an ideal place to walk and swim, or relax in the local hot pools. Meals included: Breakfast and dinner Cabin upgrade available: Yes Optional activities (at your own expense): sandboarding, hot pools and slides
day 28
OREWA - AUCKLANDOrewa is often lucky to have a beautiful sunrise over the sea, which is worth getting up early to admire. By leaving the camp early, we cover the short distance that separates us from Auckland, where we arrive at 9:30 in the morning. It is then time to say our final goodbyes. Meals included: Breakfast
- Duration : 28 days from
- Destinations: : New Zealand
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