Hey everyone,

You might have seen my previous blog about my South Island tour NZ. After that, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this country’s natural beauty had so much more to give me – and I hadn’t even scratched the surface! As a fan of hiking, New Zealand’s rugged terrain seemed like the perfect place to push my limits. That’s how I ended up taking part in the new zealand south island hiking tours and... oh my gosh, they completely transformed my experience.

If you're anything like me, someone who loves both travel and the great outdoors, a hiking tour through the South Island is the best way to do justice to the landscape. I’ve been around the island a bit now, but each corner offers new terrain, fascinating views, and experiences to learn from.

What Makes South Island Hiking Tours Stand Out?

When it comes to New Zealand’s natural beauty, the South Island is home to some of the best hiking routes in the world. But what's the draw of taking a guided hiking tour over simply going on your own? Here’s why I think it’s the way to go:

1. Guaranteed Access to the Best Trails: New Zealand is known for its multi-day hiking tracks like the Routeburn Track and the Kepler Track, but some spots can be tricky to navigate, particularly if you’ve never been in mountainous areas before. On guided hikes, experienced guides are at hand, helping you follow the safest routes and answering questions about local fauna and flora.

2. Shared Experience with Fellow Hikers: One of the things I loved was meeting people from all over the world with similar interests. We hiked, laughed, and swapped stories during breaks. By the time we reached each campsite or viewpoint, it felt like a special bond had formed between us.

3. Expert Tips and Support: I was a little nervous going into some of the more challenging tracks, but having guides with in-depth knowledge of the environment gave me confidence. They not only ensured my safety but gave incredible insights into the natural surroundings – a factor that really enhanced my hikes. Whether we were hiking to the top of Queenstown's Ben Lomond track or walking along Lake Tekapo’s shore, their advice was always spot on.

What’s on the South Island Hiking Tour Itinerary?

If you’re booking a New Zealand South Island hiking tour, here's what you can expect in terms of trails and views:

• The Routeburn Track: Probably one of the most well-known hikes in the country. This beautiful trail bridges the Southern Alps and offers panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and lush forest landscapes.

• The Kepler Track: Another one of the "Great Walks" that takes you through forests, up to mountain ridges, and along the shores of stunning lakes. There's something about Lake Manapouri and the surrounding mountains that seems like an artist’s dream come to life.

• Mt Cook and Aoraki National Park: If alpine adventures are more your style, you’ll love hiking near New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook. There are paths that cater to all levels, from relaxed scenic walks to challenging mountain climbs.

Final Thoughts: Why You Need a Hiking Tour of the South Island

If you want to really embrace the wilderness, New Zealand South Island hiking tours are a must. There’s nothing quite like waking up at dawn with the mountains surrounding you, trekking to the peak of a trail, and realising that, at that moment, everything about your adventure – and this incredible country – is perfect.