Southern Majesty: Queenstown, Milford Sound & Franz Josef
Christchurch → Tekapo → Mt Cook → Queenstown → Milford Sound → Franz Josef → Arthur’s Pass → Christchurch
$189,25/Person
A stunning alpine journey through New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. From turquoise lakes to towering peaks, from fjords to glaciers, this tour showcases the South Island’s iconic beauty in an immersive and exciting 5-day experience. Ideal for travelers wanting a powerful “South Island highlights” snapshot within limited time.
Highlights
- Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd & turquoise waters
- Mount Cook National Park, glacier valleys & alpine views
- Adventure-filled Queenstown
- Milford Sound cruise among waterfalls & cliffs
- Franz Josef Glacier walks
- Scenic return via Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill
Included and Excluded
- Private vehicle with an experienced and knowledgeable driver/ guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off within the city or agreed locations
- Flexible sightseeing stops as per the itinerary and time availability
- Bottled water during the tour
- Entry tickets or admission fees for any attractions or activities
- Charges for optional experiences such as cruises, adventure activities, or guided attractions
- Meals, snacks, and personal refreshments
- Accommodation and airfare
- Travel insurance
- Any activity not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
- Personal Expenses
Tour Plan
DAY 1 — Christchurch → Tekapo → Mount Cook → Queenstown
- Your journey begins with a scenic drive across the Canterbury Plains and into the Mackenzie Basin. At Lake Tekapo, enjoy the brilliant turquoise lake, stop at the Church of the Good Shepherd, and admire the mountain backdrop.
- Continue to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you’ll take short walks to glacier viewpoints and learn about the region’s alpine environment.
- The day finishes with your arrival in Queenstown, surrounded by mountains and lakes
DAY 2 — Explore Queenstown
- A dedicated day to enjoy what makes Queenstown world-famous. Guests may choose experiences such as the Skyline Gondola, a relaxing lakeside stroll, a jetboat ride, wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, or simply exploring the charming town centre.
- Your guide will showcase scenic viewpoints and share local stories while giving you enough flexibility to enjoy Queenstown your way.
DAY 3 — Queenstown → Milford Sound → Queenstown
- Travel through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular national parks, including Fiordland and its ancient glacial valleys.
- Stop at lakes, mirror pools, and dramatic alpine lookouts before boarding your Milford Sound cruise.
- Experience towering waterfalls, steep fjord walls, and the chance to spot seals, dolphins or penguins. Return to Queenstown with more incredible scenery along the way.
DAY 4 — Queenstown → Wanaka → Haast Pass → Franz Josef
- Drive over the dramatic Crown Range or via picturesque Arrowtown en route to Wanaka for lakeside strolls and photo stops at the famous Wanaka Tree.
- Continue through lush rainforest, waterfalls, and alpine passes along Haast Pass, one of NZ’s most scenic routes, eventually arriving at Franz Josef.
- A gentle walk to the glacier valley offers breathtaking views of the ice and surrounding peaks.
DAY 5 — Franz Josef → Arthur’s Pass → Castle Hill → Christchurch
- Travel north along rugged coastline and alpine landscapes before heading through Arthur’s Pass National Park.
- Visit dramatic viewpoints such as the Otira Viaduct, observe kea birds (mountain parrots), and enjoy short walks among alpine scenery.
- Stop at the iconic Castle Hill rock formations, an otherworldly landscape popular with climbers and photographers.
- The journey ends back in Christchurch.
