Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users
What To Bring: Personal medication
What To Bring: Jacket
What To Bring: Waterproof shoes or boots
What To Bring: Warm clothing
What To Bring: Camera
What To Bring: Sunglasses
What To Bring: Sunscreen
What To Bring: Insect repellent
Not Allowed: Non-folding wheelchairs
Not Allowed: Alcohol and drugs
Not Allowed: Electric wheelchairs
Know Before You Go: The tour itinerary may vary or operate in reverse depending on availability. You will be advised accordingly
Know Before You Go: Please advise dietary requirements per person - we are not able to amend or change these within 24 hours of departure
Know Before You Go: This is not one continuous group tour. You’ll join different scheduled tours each day, so your fellow travellers may change along the way
Know Before You Go: Please allow up to 48 hours for us to confirm your booking. Once done we will be in touch with further details for each day of the journey
The 5-day Southern Highlights tour from Queenstown explores iconic destinations in New Zealand's Deep South. You will experience a thrilling scenic train ride through the Taieri Gorge, discover the unique landscapes of The Catlins Coast, including Nugget Point and Curio Bay. The tour also includes an immersive visit to Stewart Island for Ulva Island and village tours, and a breathtaking cruise through the majestic Milford Sound.
The Taieri Gorge Train ride offers a thrilling scenic journey through dramatic landscapes. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of deep gorges, pristine rivers, and lush native bush, often inaccessible by road. This historic railway provides a unique perspective of the South Island's rugged beauty, making for a memorable and comfortable travel experience.
Along The Catlins Coast, visitors can explore stunning natural highlights. At Nugget Point, you'll find a historic lighthouse perched above distinctive rock formations, home to diverse wildlife like fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins. Curio Bay features a unique fossilized forest dating back millions of years, visible at low tide, and is also a renowned spot for spotting Hector's dolphins.
The Milford Sound cruise on the Southern Highlights tour offers an unforgettable experience amidst towering fjords and cascading waterfalls. Guests will enjoy a delicious lunch onboard while marveling at the dramatic scenery, including Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and penguins in their natural habitat. The cruise provides a comfortable way to absorb the majestic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Throughout the 5-day Southern Highlights tour, all transportation to the various destinations is facilitated by a luxury coach. This ensures a comfortable and convenient travel experience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenic journeys without the hassle of self-driving or navigating. The coach is designed for comfort, making long distances enjoyable.
During the 5-day Southern Highlights tour, guests are accommodated in quality hotels. These hotels are selected to ensure comfort and convenience after each day's exploration. The tour aims to provide a pleasant and restful stay, allowing you to recharge and prepare for the next day's adventures across New Zealand's South Island.
New Zealand's South Island offers unique experiences year-round. Summer (December-February) provides long daylight hours and warmer temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (March-May) boasts stunning fall foliage. Winter (June-August) offers snow-capped landscapes, particularly picturesque around Milford Sound. Spring (September-November) brings new growth and pleasant weather. Each season highlights different aspects of the tour's attractions.
The Southern Highlights tour package includes several key components for a seamless travel experience. You can expect comfortable travel by luxury coach and stays in quality hotels. Meals provided include a delicious lunch onboard the Milford Sound cruise and lunch during the Stewart Island guided tours. The package also covers entrance fees and guided activities for all featured attractions, such as Ulva Island and The Catlins.