Millennia of volcanic eruptions and glacial carving sculpted a landscape of fairy tales & fantasies. Towering mountains pierce the sky, lush rainforests cloak hidden valleys and dramatic coastlines hug turquoise waters. In New Zealand, myths whisper in the wind, and every step unveils a postcard-worthy panorama.
All hikers are welcome
Experience the Great Walks
Immerse yourself in nature & culture
Milford Track
Often referred to as the “finest walk in the world,” this 4-day, 53-kilometer trek through Fiordland National Park boasts stunning scenery with towering mountains, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and a cruise through the majestic Milford Sound.
Kepler Track
This 4-day, 60-kilometer loop track offers a diverse landscape, from beech forests and glacial valleys to alpine meadows and mountain ranges. It’s known for its wildlife spotting opportunities, including kakapo parrots and long-tailed bats.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
This challenging 19.4-kilometer day hike through a volcanic wonderland is a must-do for adventure seekers. Hike through otherworldly landscapes with steaming vents, emerald-colored lakes, and dramatic craters. Be aware that this challenging trip requires a good level of fitness.
He was the perfect combination of professional and relaxed with an obvious passion for the country he was showing us.
Our guide (Justin) was awesome. Helped me do some climbs I never thought myself capable of. Very informative tour guide!
This tour was absolutely amazing. Our guide (Justin) was extremely knowledgable, friendly, and fun! He planned the adventure around the weather and everyone’s needs. This was an unforgettable experience and I highly recommend it.
We had a fabulous trip with guides Andre and Katie. So many great hikes and activities covering so many iconic spots throughout the South Island. Small friendly group, well-paced for a range of fitness levels, comfy accommodations. Can’t say enough great things about this trip. Far exceeded our expectations.
New Zealand is widely known and celebrated for its incredible hiking opportunities. Here are some reasons why:
Diverse and stunning landscapes: From towering mountains and lush rainforests to glaciers, fiords, golden beaches, and volcanic landscapes, New Zealand offers a remarkable variety of scenery for hikers of all preferences.
A well-maintained trail network: The country boasts numerous well-maintained trails, ranging from multi-day “Great Walks” to shorter day hikes and coastal paths. This allows hikers of different skill & experience levels to find suitable adventures.
Great Walks: The iconic “Great Walks” are a collection of ten multi-day tracks considered to be the upper echelon of hiking trips in New Zealand. They attract hikers worldwide and contribute significantly to New Zealand’s reputation as a hiking mecca.
Strong hiking culture: Hiking is deeply ingrained in New Zealand’s culture, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the many benefits it offers. This translates to a well-developed infrastructure for hikers, including comfortable huts, campsites, information resources, and guided tours.
International recognition: New Zealand consistently ranks highly in international travel lists and awards for hiking destinations. This recognition further solidifies its reputation as a place for unforgettable hiking experiences.
The Great Walks of New Zealand are a collection of ten multi-day tramping tracks (hiking trails) renowned for their scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and historical significance. These well-maintained tracks traverse national parks and other protected areas, offering an unforgettable wilderness experience for hikers of all levels. Here is a map of all of the walks.
Hiking the Great Walks requires planning and preparation, as some tracks involve remote locations and limited facilities. Booking hut stays or campsites in advance, especially during peak season, is crucial.
The best time to go hiking in New Zealand depends on what you like and which specific region you want to visit. Here’s a breakdown by season:
Summer (December – February):
Autumn (March – May):
Spring (September – November):
Winter (June – August):
Determining the prettiest hike in New Zealand is a tough task – there are too many to choose from! However, here are our 3 favorites:
Milford Track: An iconic “Great Walk” in Fiordland National Park, the Milford Track is a 53.5-kilometer (33.3-mile) journey through towering mountains, lush rainforests, and alongside stunning fjords. It’s widely recognized as one of the best hikes in New Zealand, and maybe even the world.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Located in Tongariro National Park, this one-day volcanic landscape hike is known for its dramatic scenery, including active volcanic craters, emerald-colored lakes, and lunar terrain.
Kepler Track: Also situated in Fiordland National Park, this 60-kilometer (37-mile) “Great Walk” offers diverse landscapes, from lush beech forests and waterfalls to mountain ridges and glacier valleys.
Abel Tasman Coast Track: This 54-kilometer (33.6-mile) “Great Walk” in Abel Tasman National Park is known for its golden sand beaches, granite headlands, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular choice for hikers and kayakers alike.
The most famous walk in New Zealand is undoubtedly the Milford Track.
The Milford Track has been consistently recognized for its breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experience. Here are some reasons why thousands of adventurers have it on their bucket lists:
It’s difficult to say which part of New Zealand has the “best” hikes. However, three regions stand out for their exceptional hiking opportunities:
Fiordland National Park: Located in the southwestern corner of the South Island, Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to several “Great Walks,” including the Milford Track, Kepler Track, and Doubtful Sound Wilderness Track. It’s known for its dramatic fiords, towering mountains, and lush rainforests.
Tongariro National Park: Situated in the central North Island, Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site and home to active volcanoes, including Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a popular day hike offering volcanic landscapes, emerald-colored lakes, and lunar terrain.
Abel Tasman National Park: Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden sand beaches, granite headlands, crystal-clear waters, and native wildlife. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a popular multi-day hike or kayaking route offering stunning coastal scenery.
