5 Day Milford & Fiordland Hike, Bike, Kayak

The day begins with a morning pick-up from a central Queenstown location, followed by a tour briefing and bike fitting. A scenic drive to Glenorchy sets the stage for a relaxed kayak across Lake Wakatipu to Pigeon Island, a wildlife haven where a short walk offers the chance to explore its natural beauty. Towering mountains surround the lake, making this an unforgettable start to the adventure.

After paddling back, there may be time for a refreshing swim before enjoying lunch by the shore. The journey continues with a cycle along the Queenstown Trails, winding through stunning landscapes. After some time to unwind, the group gathers for the first dinner together, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Cycle up to 20km / Kayak 5km

A scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu’s winding shores leads to the historic railway town of Kingston. From here, the journey continues on the Around the Mountains cycle trail, a quiet, traffic-free path through open farmland framed by stunning mountain views. After a well-earned lunch, the group transfers to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

The afternoon brings a hike along the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Starting at Rainbow Reach, the trail follows the Waiau River through native beech forest, ending at the serene outlet of Lake Te Anau. The evening is free to explore the town and enjoy dinner at leisure before preparing an overnight bag for the Milford Sound cruise the following day.

Cycle up to 50km / Hike 9km

The journey into Fiordland National Park unfolds through a landscape of towering mountains and ancient beech forests. Along the scenic Milford Road, short walks and panoramic viewpoints offer glimpses of the wilderness before reaching The Divide. Here, a rewarding hike to Key Summit, part of the renowned Routeburn Track, reveals breathtaking views over the Hollyford Valley and the Humboldt and Earl mountain ranges.

After passing through the Homer Tunnel, a stop at the famous Chasm walkway adds to the day’s adventure before arriving at Milford Sound. The night is spent on a floating hotel, cruising the dramatic fiord with options to kayak or explore by tender boat. A delicious meal awaits onboard, and the night ends with stargazing on deck, surrounded by the tranquillity of this remote paradise.

The morning begins with a final exploration of Milford Sound before returning to shore. A scenic bus ride climbs back to the Homer Tunnel, and if conditions allow, the cycling continues with a thrilling ride down the Milford Sound Highway and along the peaceful Hollyford Road. This stretch offers breathtaking views of Fiordland’s rugged landscapes, with towering peaks and lush rainforest lining the route.

After lunch, the journey continues by bus back to Te Anau, with stops at scenic viewpoints along the way. The evening brings a final group dinner, offering the perfect chance to reflect on the adventure and enjoy one last night in Fiordland.

The final day begins with a ride through the remote and picturesque Mavora Lakes, a filming location from The Lord of the Rings. Cycling through beech forests and open valleys, the route continues into the isolated Von Valley, where a well-earned lunch awaits. The landscape here is truly spectacular, with vast alpine scenery stretching in every direction.

The last stretch of the journey leads to the shores of Lake Wakatipu, finishing at Mount Nicholas Station. With views of snow-capped Mount Earnslaw in the distance, the ride follows the lakeside trail to Walter Peak Station. A celebratory drink marks the end of the adventure before boarding the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a scenic cruise back to Queenstown.