The west coast route was recently voted one of the top 10 drives in the World by Lonely Planet and we know why. We have also found some extra hidden spots, fantastic rides and great hikes to enjoy along the way.
You start your trip in Queenstown and onto glacial highs before travelling the coast up to arguably New Zealand's finest national park - The Abel Tasman. There are some truly unique activity options and a genuine once in a lifetime exprience.
- You can take extended breaks at any of the points on the tour
- Most nights you can upgrade to cabins for a small fee and a taste of rural luxury
key: B = Breakfast included L = Lunch included D = Dinner included U = Upgrade available
NOTE: Optional activities mentioned in itinerary.
Day 1: Queenstown with its multitude of adrenalin activities. Bungy, fly-by-wire, jet boat, rafting, horse trekking, parapenting, skydive, gondola ride - this place has it all, as well as spectacular views. Cycle and walk in alpine areas. A chance to wind down and compare notes and photos from your Queenstown thrills! B/D
Day 2: A relaxed morning at the camp. Optional jet boating on the Wilkin River then over the dramatic Haast Pass. Cycle steep downhill sections through rainforest, past waterfalls and pools to the wild West Coast. Camp at Okuru, a world heritage area, bird life, lagoon and beach walks. B/L/D
Day 3: We are now on one of the Lonely Planets top 10 drives in the World. We head to Fox Glacier for optional guided walk or heli hike on the spectacular glaciers. Cycle to Okarito beach camp. White Heron Sanctuary, spectacular walks and breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. B/L/D
Day 4: Morning at Okarito. Great cycle route along the coast. Visit Bushmans Museum, Check out famous Greenstone factories of Hokitika. Stunning coastal walk and cycle. Excellent beach camp at Punakaiki, home of the famous Pancake Rocks and Paparoa National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for kiwi birds!! Many great walks and rides to choose from. B/D U
Day 5: Traditional Flying Kiwi pancake breakfast. Explore the outstanding sub-tropical flora and admire limestone formations in the Canyon. Cycle rides, glow worm caves, beach. Optional horse riding, and kayaking. Stay at same great camp. B/L/D U
Day 6: Travel through the Buller Gorge for some cycling and beautiful scenery to one of NZ's most stunning spots - the Abel Tasman region. Cycle backroad route. Optional skydive or fly in an acrobatic plane. We stay 2 nights at Marahau, with the Abel Tasman National Park on our doorstep. B/D U
Day 7: Free day for exploring the area. Walk, cycle, optional awesome sailing the scenic coast, sea kayak, boat and walk the golden beaches. Swim in crystal clear waters. Night out at a cool cafe. B/L U
Day 8: Time to soak up Nelson's cafe culture and arts. Optional Sky-diving. Cycle along Queen Charlotte Drive. Travel through the Marlborough wine region. B
Trip Highlights
- Includes food, camp fees, transport andamp; shared tent
- Adrenalin rush of Queenstown
- Chilling Glaciers
- Picturesque Abel Tasman National Park
- Real Lord of the Rings country
- Paparoa National Park
- Punakaiki blow holes
- Cultural and historical treasures
Trip Information
Starts In: Queenstown
Ends In: Picton
Duration: 8 Days.
Departs: Regular departures
Group Size: max 28
Transport: Coach
Accommodation: Camping
Activity: Adventure Tour
Ages: 18+
- Obligation Free