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Hiking along the ridge line to the top of Ben Lomond - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Hiking along the ridge line to the top of Ben Lomond  | Colin Monteath
Hiking New Zealand's Southern Alps - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Hiking New Zealand's Southern Alps  | Matt Gould
Hiking New Zealand's Southern Alps - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Hiking New Zealand's Southern Alps  | Matt Gould
Panoramic views of the Alps - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Panoramic views of the Alps  | Frances K
Views in the Southern Alps are breathtaking - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Views in the Southern Alps are breathtaking  | Frances K
Views towards Rex Simpson Hut and Lake Tekapo - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Views towards Rex Simpson Hut and Lake Tekapo  | Matt Gould
Hiking up to Rocky Mountain near to Lake Wanaka - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Hiking up to Rocky Mountain near to Lake Wanaka  | Matt Gould
Beuzenberg Peak - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Beuzenberg Peak  | Ange Sexton
Hike to Rob Roy Glacier - Best of Southern Alps Trek, New Zealand
Hike to Rob Roy Glacier

Best of Southern Alps Trek

A dramatic 7 day itinerary showcasing some of the best treks in New Zealand's Southern Alps

New Zealand
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 72 reviews

7 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: SAT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 7 Days
Activities
  • 7 day trek
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel/motel
  • 2 nights private backcountry hut
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 5

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

26kg of CO2-e PP per day

(155kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Hike to some of the most secluded ridges in the Southern Alps
  • Experience an overnight in a private backcountry hut with stunning views of the Mackenzie Basin & Lake Tekapo
  • Admire the majesty of NZ's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook from a high vantage point
  • Hike to admire the unbridled views of Lake Wanaka & Tititea Mount Aspiring from above
  • Take a spectacular gondola ride into Queenstown overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable Ranges

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary journey through New Zealand's hidden gems with our exclusive trekking adventure. Discover breathtaking landscapes untouched by guidebook pages as we traverse mountain peaks, remote lakes, and majestic valleys, all while soaking in the awe-inspiring vistas of Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring.

Our expedition commences with a scenic drive to the highland haven of Lake Tekapo, where the first two nights are spent in a private backcountry hut, offering unparalleled views of alpine splendor and serene lakeside panoramas. Trekking eastward along a rugged ridgeline, we ascend to heights of around 2000 meters, before transitioning to the iconic Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Immerse yourself in a day of exploration amidst the rugged beauty of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, with Mt. Sefton casting its imposing presence across the landscape, its icy avalanches echoing in the distance. Continuing our adventure, we journey to the lakeland paradise of Wanaka, where a hike above its picturesque shores unveils the Southern Alps in all their glory.

As our remarkable trek draws to a close, ascend the majestic Ben Lomond, traversing open tussock flats amidst breathtaking mountain vistas, culminating in a gondola descent into the vibrant town of Queenstown. Join us on this unforgettable expedition off the beaten path, where each step reveals the hidden wonders of New Zealand's untamed wilderness.

Itinerary

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This morning we drive south through the Canterbury Plains to Fairlie and inland to Lake Tekapo for lunch. We drive along Tekapo's lakeside to Mt Gerald station and then hike 3-4 hours into the Rex Simpson Hut, (a 12 bunk private hut on the station). To greet us are stunning vistas across the lake and into the rolling tussock landscape that surrounds the area (up to 3-4 hours walking). As day turns to night we savour the sun setting behind mountain silhouettes and a star-studded sky - one of the clearest and darkest skies in the southern hemisphere and enjoy a hearty meal prepared by your guides. The hut consists of three rooms, sleeping 12 participants and 2 guides in total. There are no showers and the toilet is a traditional longdrop loo with a view! The hut is fully equipped with pot belly stove, firewood, gas, and solar lighting. Sleeping bags, pillows and mattresses are at the hut; liners and pillow cases are provided each trip. It provides a comfortable and unique place to call home for the first 2 nights. Note: Please remember we will be staying in an alpine hut, you will not need to take all your luggage with you and we suggest packing a small overnight bag with clothing suitable for staying in an alpine environment. If necessary we can provide small overnight packs and walking poles.

Meals: L,D

After breakfast, we head out from the hut and climb onto a broad easy spur which gradually gains height showcasing breathtaking views back down the lake and across to the Southern Alps with the prominent east faces of Mt Cook and Tasman. For the strong trekker, the summit of Beuzenberg Peak at 2070m is a just reward. We return back to the hut for another hearty meal and spectacular sunset should the weather play ball (up to 6-8 hours walking).

Meals: B,L,D

Today starts with a walk back down to the road end from Rex Simpson hut. There's time to look around Tekapo and pick up a coffee and packed lunch before heading to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village. This afternoon we'll choose from a number of short walks in the area dependent upon weather conditions and fitness levels from the previous day. A walk to the Red Tarns, named because of the red pond weed, offers stunning views directly onto Mt Sefton. Its a short steep climb with a number of steps that take us quickly to this panoramic high point. From here we can rest and take in the views directly up the Hooker Valley and back down the Tasman Valley. The Hooker Valley walk is also a favourite weaving under the towering peaks and across swing bridges to a beautiful glacial lake. (Up to 4-5 hours walking). Tonight’s accommodation is within Aoraki/Mt Cook Village itself with outstanding views of the sun setting on the surrounding mountains.

Meals: B,L,D

The entire day awaits to explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and immerse ourselves in the awe inspiring landscapes and mighty peaks that surround. Today we climb up to the Sealy Tarns gaining 450m in the first hour. From here there are awesome views around the neighbouring valleys, the Mt Cook Range and Mt Sefton. Then the path becomes less defined, a little rocky in places, and as it gets higher and starts to leave the alpine scrub and tussock, it enters boulder fields. The final ascent to the ridge line is up a steep-ish scree slope. At around 1600m, the view opens up to an amazing vista of Mt Sefton and the Mueller Glacier far below. Mueller Hut is then about a kilometre away, at an altitude just short of 1800m. The route to the hut is marked by poles, across boulder fields, and requires some rock-hopping, but later on crosses a couple of small basins before reaching the hut. The hut is located at a unique vantage point with 360-degree views of uninterrupted alpine beauty. It makes a wonderful location for lunch before returning the same way. A second night in the village provides another opportunity to view these peaks at sundown and the incredible starry night sky that follows.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning there is another opportunity for a short walk in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, again largely dictated by what we've achieved the previous two days, it could be the Red Tarns Track with beautiful views of alpine tarns and Aoraki; Kea Point Track to the foot on Mt Sefton and it's beautiful glacier; Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, with vistas of NZ's longest glacier and the Tasman Lake; or Mueller Lake Lookout via Hooker Valley Track. Leaving the Mackenzie basin we cross ‘water-sheds’ and drive over the Lindis Pass through to Wanaka with a lunch stop along the way. Take the time this afternoon to relax and explore Wanaka's lakeside township after a big few days of walking, or we can drop you to a nearby short walk to spend the rest of the afternoon. For the coming season, dinner tonight is now included!

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, a local guide will collect & drive us for approximately 90 minutes to the trail head of the Rob Roy Glacier Track. The trail leads into Tititea Mount Aspiring National Park following Rob Roy Stream through beech forest with waterfalls and a luxuriant understorey of ferns and mosses. At the tree line, the forest gives way to alpine vegetation and spectacular views of the hanging glaciers beneath Mount Rob Roy. The walk to the viewing point is mostly uphill, but the incline gradual. The cheeky kleptomaniac Kea (mountain parrots) are fond of anything edible or not that you may leave unattended on a rock – just saying! Returning to Wanaka in the late afternoon, the evening is yours - for the coming season, dinner tonight is no longer included. Your Adventure South guide will have pointed out our local favourites for you last night, so you can hunt these down at your leisure.

Meals: B,L

The last day of this trip will be a highlight for many as we are rejoined by our Adventure South guide to head over the Crown Range from Wanaka to Queenstown to hike in the extraordinary sub-alpine environment of Ben Lomond (1748m). From here there are awe-inspiring panoramas of Lake Wakatipu, the distant Remarkable and Richardson Ranges, along with the mountains and valleys we have been exploring over the past 4 days. We descend until we reach the Skyline Gondola, which provides a quick ride down into Queenstown and then a short walk to town.

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

12 scheduled departures between 17 Oct 2026 and 2 Apr 2028.

  • Departs 17 Oct 2026 – ends 23 Oct 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 31 Oct 2026 – ends 6 Nov 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 2 Dec 2026 – ends 8 Dec 2026 (7 days)
  • Departs 25 Jan 2027 – ends 31 Jan 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 12 Feb 2027 – ends 18 Feb 2027 (7 days)
  • Departs 23 Mar 2027 – ends 29 Mar 2027 (7 days)
  • … and 6 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x6), gourmet picnic or cafe lunches (x7), two course restaurant dinners (x5) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 4 nights hand picked hotel/motel ensuite accommodation on a twin share basis
  • 2 nights in a private mountain hut (shared facilities)
  • Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
  • Private vehicle transport including trailer for luggage
  • Skyline gondola ride into Queenstown
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
  • Transport from Christchurch to Queenstown
  • Packs and poles (on request if required) - please let our staff know in advance
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation

Not included

  • International or domestic flights and taxes
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • All beverages, other than breakfast
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own drink bottle or hydration system)
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (if required)

About your guide

Our guides are one of our biggest assets. We pride ourselves on the standard and quality of these great people who you will be spending your holiday with. They come from all walks of life but they all have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, heaps of fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you. We provide you with the services of two guides for many of our trips, (this may depend on the size of the group). All are certified in first aid and CPR and many are advanced mountain guides.

New Zealand Hiking Holidays | Adventure South NZ

Reviews (72)

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My week long hiking and touring trip with Adventure South exploring the Southern Alps was fantastic and left me not wanting at all for anything better.

Rich, our guide had all the requisites desired-very friendly, informative, great company and completely accommodating to our needs always delivering in a nice way. I genuinely could not have asked for better guiding/service. Our van was clean and comfortable, our various points of accommodation of good quality, very comfortable and very well located to amenities with excellent food provided.

I walked away from this trip feeling very happy with the experience and quality Adventure South provided and I fully recommend this company and staff.

Linley M|NT, Australia
21 Apr 2026
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A really enjoyable, satisfying challenging trip with some extraordinary landscapes to find yourself in!

Kirsten C|Nelson , New Zealand
22 Dec 2025
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We were a group of 11 women and had a fantastic time! Teresa and Eli looked after us wonderfully throughout the trip. The walk was a great mix of challenge and variety, with a well-paced itinerary and perfectly timed rest days. We were lucky with the weather, too, which made the stunning and varied scenery even more enjoyable.

R Keen|Melbourne VIC, Australia
16 Dec 2025
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We enjoyed the Best of the Southern Alps hike very much. The itinerary allowed us to explore three different areas of the Southern Alps. It was great spending two nights in each place which allowed us to not be moving every day to just absorb our surroundings. We loved the Rex Simpson Hut at Tekapo. Here we were really remote among the scenery. The Hut was comfortable and our Guides Chris and Catherine cooked great food for us. Hiking up to the hut was fairly hard but once we were up there it was so beautiful and quiet and from there we hiked the following day, even amongst the snow which had fallen week before. We didn’t see anyone for 2 1/2 days. Mt Cook Village was a bigger concern but the mountains were spectacular. 2000 steps to Sealy Tarns was tough but worth it. We saw a Kea up there. So beautiful. Out of Wanaka we did a hike to Rob Roy Glacier with local guides. It was a great day, my second trip with Adventure South and equally satisfied. Will use them again for sure.

Pauline B|Fairlight NSW, Australia
27 Nov 2025
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The Best of Southern Alps trip offered stunning examples of Glacial landscapes and beautiful hikes. Our guides were engaging, experienced, and generous with their knowledge of New Zealand geography, history and culture.

Teresa B|California, United States
1 Apr 2025
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The views were amazing. Great company. Great food! Thanks guys!

Henry M|NSW, Australia
11 Mar 2025
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Great itinerary. Steve and Mike were excellent guides. We also had very good weather.

Kevin Murphy|NSW, Australia
28 Feb 2025
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My husband and I had a wonderful time on the Best of Southern Alps Adventure South trip. We had amazing guides,(Steve and Mike are legends) who accounted for a range of abilities from us less experienced slower 55-60 year olds to the head of the pack 70 year olds. Nothing was to hard to arrange and we had sooo much great food at the hut and at Aoraki-Mount Cook and Wanaka that I think we put on weight despite the large climbs. The 3 day hike to Rex Simpson hut was a highlight for me and I slept out under the stars and full moon. I really appreciated the hiking poles and larger pack on offer and fortunately my knees held out over the 7 days. The itinerary was perfect and by the end of the trip, our fitness was enough to climb the 1380m up to Ben Lomond without too much angst. The weather was on our side as we had a retired weather man for accurate predictions. I am not sure that we could be so lucky again with 7 days of good weather. Our group was loads of fun and I would highly recommend the trip to others who might be thinking of trying out some multi day hiking at a moderate level. The logistics and our guides were really excellent. So, come to New Zealand and try out tramping. Book your next perfect holiday.

Betty Chen|New South Wales, Australia
22 Feb 2025
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It was an absolutely amazing experience - fantastically organised, great guides and a good group of walking companions.

Lea Pasin|NSW, Australia
31 Dec 2024

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?
Studio Room at Carrick Lodge | Carrick Lodge

Motels

Often family run, motels range from 3 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Rooms are spacious, warm and comfortable and they have ensuite bathrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Rex Simpson hut | Autal Farkas

Back Country Hut

Experience real New Zealand and spend two nights in an amazing remote back country hut overlooking the Southern Alps and Lake Tekapo. The hut is fitted with bunk beds, sleeping bags will be supplied, a small kitchen and communal area, plus wood stove which keeps the hut toasty and warm. The basic long-drop toilet is outside.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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