Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive into Te Anau (own arrangements prior to this – but please ask if we can arrange bus connections from Queenstown for you). Check into your Motel accommodation in central Te Anau where you will stay for the next 4 nights.
This afternoon/evening join the guided tour of the Glowworm Caves of Te Anau:
Your trip to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves begins with a cruise to the western shores of Lake Te Anau on a purpose-built scenic cruise vessels. Deep inside the caves, beyond the roar of the water, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by thousands of glowworms, unique to New Zealand. In the subterranean darkness, they produce a glittering display that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Day 2
You will be collected from your accommodation and the morning starts with a pre trip briefing - a chance to meet the others in your group and ask any questions.
Your Kepler Track small group guided heli hike starts with an amazing flight by helicopter from Te Anau, over the beech forest of Mount Luxmore to arrive at Luxmore Hut on the Kepler Track. Landing in the alpine area, you will begin by exploring the alpine tussock fields. Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lake and National Park make an incredible backdrop for your Kepler experience.
After time exploring the alpine area you have the option to walk to the summit of Mount Luxmore along a well-formed section of the Kepler Track.
You then enjoy a down hill walk (8km) on a wide track, requiring a medium level of fitness. There are plenty of stops for photographs, bird-watching and interpretation along the way to break the descent. The guided walk is finished at the sandy beach of Brod Bay, the pick up point for the boat cruise back to Te Anau township. The boat ride offers an enjoyable way to complete this very beautiful guided walk on the Kepler Track, offering a great viewing of the path you took, from alpine area to the clear water of Lake Te Anau.
Approx. timings for the day - Te Anau accommodation pick up 8.45 am and returning around 5.00 pm.
Day 3
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Te Anau and driven along the famous Milford Road, before arriving at the Milford Sound Visitors Terminal. The small group guided walk then begins with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point. A wonderful 5.5 km (11 km return) walk on the Milford Track alongside the cascading Arthur River and moody Lake Ada, on a well maintained track through ancient temperate rainforest surrounded by an array of ferns, mosses and lichens in vibrant shades of green leads to Giant Gate Waterfall. An expansive swing bridge provides perfect photo opportunities. Return at a leisurely pace taking the time to enjoy this incredible forest. You will then re-join the boat for the transfer back to the Milford visitors centre and then enjoy an afternoon scenic cruise around Milford Sound, before being driven back to Te Anau.
Approx. timings for the day - Te Anau accommodation pick up 6.30 am and returning around 5.30pm. Arrive at Milford Sound at 8.30 am, and return from walk at 1.15 pm. Milford Sound Boat Cruise departs 1.45 pm, returning 3.25 pm.
Day 4
Enjoy a small group guided day walk from The Divide to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn Track. Ascending through lush forest and into a unique alpine herb field offering panoramic views of mountains, alpine lakes and bush clad valleys far below. This walk offers an incredible day out in the heart of New Zealand South Island main mountain divide. Climbing around 400 metres, the ascent takes approximately 2 hours at a leisurely pace. The walk is 7-10 km, with a walking time of 3 to 5 hours.
Approx. timings for the day - Te Anau accommodation pick up 8.30 am and returning around 4.30pm.
Day 5
Check out of your Te Anau accommodation this morning ready for your onward travel.
If you would like to stay an additional night in Te Anau and join a one day tour and cruise of Doubtful Sound – please ask for more details.
Please note that the above itinerary may be placed in a different order when booked due to the weather or other operational factors at the time.
Departure Dates:
Available between October and April on selected departure dates - please email us to check availability
