(Choose one or more)
| Cost From: | $5095 |
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| Length: | 13 days |
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| Activity: | Hiking / Trekking, Wildlife & Natural History |
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New Zealand is incredibly welcoming—great food, good fun, and a world of waterfalls.Lynne Greenfield
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The ultimate way to explore Italy—on foot! Discover jewel-like towns of the southern Tuscan countryside, from remarkable Siena to the enchanting villages of the sun-splashed Maremma, with its hidden coves and vineyards producing “super-Tuscan” wines.
New Zealand is nature’s playground. In fact, the entire South Island feels like one big national park—no wonder Kiwis celebrate any opportunity to “have a go” at outdoor adventure. We discover first-hand the beauty that inspires them as we swim among wild dolphins at Kaikoura, scramble on the towering ice formations of Fox Glacier, hike through glades of nikau palms at Paparoa, and savor the wonder of world-famed Milford Sound on a spectacular overnight cruise. Outdoor adventure abounds, yet our journey also savors the unique culture, friendly Kiwi character, and unhurried pace of this glorious green island. At the end of our active South Island hiking odyssey, we offer an optional hike on the Routeburn Track, one of the world’s great treks.
$5095 (9-12 members)
$5495 (6-8 members)
Single supplement: $1250
Routeburn Track Extension: from $1195
Prices are for Fall 2009 / Winter 2010, call for Fall 2010 Winter 2011 pricing
Mar 28-Apr 9, 2010 Jon Imhoof
Nov 14-26, 2010
Dec 12-24, 2010
Jan 9-21, 2011
Jan 23-Feb 4, 2011
Feb 6-18, 2011
Feb 20-Mar 4, 2011
Mar 6-18, 2011
Reading list, click here.
From Christchurch, we explore and hike on the stunning Kaikoura Coast, where the often snow-clad Kaikoura Mountains make a spectacular backdrop. We set out for unforgettable snorkeling among Kaikoura’s friendly dusky dolphins, who swim here in pods of hundreds, then enjoy wine-tasting in the vineyards of Marlborough Sounds.
Our “water taxi” whisks us to the glorious Abel Tasman National Park, with its golden beaches and translucent seas. From deluxe Awaroa Lodge, we hike through fantastic forests of towering tree ferns, descend to powdery beaches, and climb up into the headlands with sweeping coastal views all along the way.
Circling the wild west coast, we follow trails through luxuriant rainforest at Paparoa and visit Hokitika, a former gold mining town.
On the Fox Glacier, we don crampons for a walk across a sea of creaking ice. The next day, we explore the alpine grandeur of Mount Aspiring National Park. On Day 11, we explore charming Queenstown.
Overnight Cruise Milford Sound is a spectacular meeting of mountains and sea. On our cruise, we have a chance to explore by sea kayak. After an overnight in cabins with private baths, we awake to the silence and serenity of Milford Sound as the morning light falls across sheer granite peaks. Depart Day 13 via Queenstown (or join our Routeburn Track Extension).
This is the Itinerary-at-a-Glance. For the complete trip description, Download Full Trip Brochure
If you would like to extend your adventure, we offer the following option:
Day 1 (1 night), Christchurch, New Zealand
A modern hotel set on five acres, the Chateau has a tranquil location, colorful gardens, an excellent restaurant, and a very helpful staff. Enjoy ...
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Day 2 (1 night), Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura is a quiet town spread out along the coastline, and the ocean views are sensational from our accommodation, with its great location on ...
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Day 3 (1 night), Nelson, New Zealand
With a waterside setting on the Waimea Estuary outside Nelson, the Grand Mercure is a new resort laid out like an English village, complete with ...
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Days 4 to 5 (2 nights), Kaiteriteri, Abel Tasman Nat'l Park, New Zealand
The location of this place can’t be beat—it is surrounded by native bush and pristine beaches right in Abel Tasman National Park. The ...
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Day 6 (1 night), Paparoa National Park, New Zealand
With a stunning location on Punakaiki Beach next to the Pancake Rocks, this is the perfect place for us to stop after our day’s drive along ...
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Days 7 to 8 (2 nights), Fox Glacier Township, New Zealand
A minute’s walk from the cafes and pubs in the “one street” town of Fox Glacier Township, the Westhaven is a nice new motel ...
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Days 9 to 10 (2 nights), Wanaka, New Zealand
This is a cozy B&B with great hosts in the quiet lakeside town of Wanaka. The rooms are small but very clean and nicely decorated. Tea and ...
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Day 11 (1 night), Queenstown, New Zealand
The Novotel has a perfect location directly on Queenstown’s picturesque lakefront. In the heart of town but on a quiet side street, it has ...
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Day 12 (1 night), Milford Sound, New Zealand
For our overnight cruise in spectacular Milford Sound, we have comfortable private cabins with en suite bathrooms on the 60-passenger Milford ...
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If you would like to view the accommodations offered with our extensions option:
Note: Listed above are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
