Check out these top 3 guided walking experiences in New Zealand
For those who love hiking and exploring the outdoors, New Zealand is a must-visit. A network of well-maintained hiking trails wind their way across the country, taking in a stunning variety of landscapes from the sandy beaches of Tasman Bay, up to the rugged peaks of Fiordland National Park. With walks ranging in length and difficulty, there is something for everyone.
A number of different companies offer guided walking trips around the country, allowing you to experience New Zealand’s beautiful wilderness up close and without the logistical hassles. Take a look at these 3 top New Zealand guided walks!
Routeburn Track 3-day guided walk – Ultimate Hikes
The ultimate in alpine adventure, the Routeburn Track weaves its way up above the tree line to the jagged peaks that link Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks.
Ultimate Hikes offer a range of different guided hiking options including a 3-day guided hike along the Routeburn Track. An all-inclusive adventure that will propel you past sheer rock faces and up craggy mountains, alongside pristine lakes, under magnificent waterfalls and through luxurious rainforest. With jaw-dropping views around every corner and cheeky native birdlife watching you from the trees, this is a truly spectacular hiking adventure not to be missed in New Zealand.
Wander across the mountains and stay in warm and comfortable lodges with delicious meals and a friendly atmosphere and look out across New Zealand as the sun sets over the mountains.
Abel Tasman 5-day guided walk – Wilsons Abel Tasman
Located at the top of the South Island with its blanket of beautiful evergreen forest and boasting the most annual sunshine hours in the country, Abel Tasman National Park is the perfect place for a guided walk getaway. Experience the friendly and knowledgeable team, including three generations of the Wilson family, as they welcome you to this stunning corner of the country.
The most relaxing of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Abel Tasman Coast Track offers superb beach and bush walking along a well-maintained track, with gentle terrain and near constant shade cover provided by the surrounding native forest.
The Abel Tasman 5-day guided walk includes two nights at each of the beautiful beach front lodges: Meadowbank Homestead Awaroa; and Torrent Bay Lodge, with the opportunity to tailor each day to your individual preferences. Explore deep into the national park, with information on local flora and fauna from the knowledgeable guides. Throw in a little variety and take a kayak out for a paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Tasman Sea.
With the flexibility to fully tailor your experience, this trip is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful beaches and forests of the Abel Tasman National Park.
Hollyford Track 3-day guided walk – Hollyford Guided Walks
Winding its way through the wild, wet, mountainous landscapes of Fiordland National park, the Hollyford Valley provides a sheltered and intimate introduction to this beautifully secluded corner of the park, away from the hordes of tourists that throng to Milford Sound, just over the hill.
Hollyford Guided Walks offers the opportunity to explore this rugged and beautiful landscape on a 3-day guided walk through, staying at Pyke and Martins Bay lodges and looked after by the wonderful valley guides and lodge hosts.
With a journey that will have you winding along the Hollyford Track on foot, racing down the river by jet boat and soaring up and over the mountains in a helicopter, this guided experience is made all the more memorable by the fountains of knowledge provided by your experienced guides. You will learn about the local Maori history and the forgotten pioneering settlement of Jamestown, hear about the rich rainforest and its winged inhabitants, and then walk down along the coast where, with luck, you will walk amongst New Zealand Fur Seals and, with luck, spot the elusive Fiordland Crested Penguin.
An ideal way to explore Fiordland’s rich history and wilderness, with a bed and a hot shower waiting for you to sink in to at the end of the day.
