New Zealand: The South Island

Highlights

• Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
• Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
• Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
• Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
• Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate.

What's this trip about?

Delve deep into the heart of New Zealand’s celebrated wilderness on dedicated bike paths and scenic dirt trails through the woods—far from car traffic. As you pedal along the shimmering coast of the Tasman Sea, you’ll catch glimpses of distant mountain peaks and vibrant local bird life. We’ve designed this tour to let your hiking boots take you places two wheels can’t—including the Franz Josef Glacier, a wilderness seacoast walk, and a nocturnal glowworm adventure. With VBT’s deep roots in the region, you’ll have unique opportunities to meet the locals during a visit to a traditional Kiwi sheep farm and a guided rainforest walk. Best of all, VBT’s charming local trip leaders will be delighted to introduce you to the many cultural traditions and natural wonders of the island paradise they call home.

Accommodation