7 Day Best of Southern Alps Guided Hiking Tour

The journey begins with a scenic drive south through the Canterbury Plains to Fairlie, then inland to Lake Tekapo for lunch. Following the lake’s shoreline, the route continues to Mt Gerald Station, where a 3–4 hour hike leads to Rex Simpson Hut, a private 12-bunk hut offering sweeping views over Lake Tekapo and the surrounding tussock-covered hills.

As evening falls, the sky transforms into one of the clearest, darkest nightscapes in the southern hemisphere—perfect for stargazing. A warm, hearty meal awaits, prepared by your guides. The hut has three rooms, accommodating 12 participants and two guides. Facilities include a potbelly stove, firewood, gas, and solar lighting, though there are no showers. The long-drop toilet offers a view like no other. Sleeping bags, pillows, and mattresses are provided, along with fresh liners and pillowcases.

Important: As this is an alpine hut stay, guests should pack a small overnight bag with essential clothing. Larger luggage will be left behind. Small overnight packs and walking poles are available upon request.

The day begins with a steady climb from the hut onto a broad, easy spur that gradually rises, revealing breathtaking views over Lake Tekapo and the vast Southern Alps. The striking east faces of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman dominate the skyline, making every step a visual reward.

For those seeking an extra challenge, the ascent to Beuzenberg Peak (2,070m) offers a truly rewarding summit experience (up to 6-8 hours walking). After a full day on the trail, the return to Rex Simpson Hut is welcomed with a hearty meal and, weather permitting, another spectacular alpine sunset.

The morning begins with a descent from Rex Simpson Hut back to the road, followed by a stop in Lake Tekapo for a coffee break and a packed lunch. From there, the journey continues to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, nestled beneath New Zealand’s highest peak.

The afternoon is spent exploring the area with a choice of short walks suited to the group’s energy levels. A climb to the Red Tarns offers sweeping views of Mt Sefton, while the Hooker Valley Track winds under towering peaks, across swing bridges, and towards a stunning glacial lake. The day ends with an overnight stay in Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, where the sunset paints the surrounding mountains in golden hues.

A full day of exploration in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park offers the chance to take in its awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. The hike begins with a steep ascent to Sealy Tarns, gaining 450m in just the first hour. From this vantage point, sweeping views stretch across the Mt Cook Range, neighbouring valleys, and the towering face of Mt Sefton.

The trail then becomes more rugged, leading through alpine scrub, tussock fields, and rocky terrain before reaching the Mueller Ridge at around 1,600m. A final push across boulder fields brings the group to Mueller Hut, sitting just below 1,800m, where lunch is enjoyed amid uninterrupted 360-degree views of glaciers and peaks. The return journey follows the same route, ending with a second night in Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, where the evening sky offers another stunning display of stars.

The morning offers another chance to explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, with options for a Hooker Valley walk or a visit to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, depending on the group’s energy levels. These walks provide one last opportunity to soak in the dramatic alpine scenery before departing the Mackenzie Basin.

The journey continues over Lindis Pass, a scenic drive through golden tussock landscapes, with a stop for lunch along the way. The afternoon is spent in Wanaka, where guests can relax by the lake, explore the charming township, or take on a short optional walk before settling in for the evening.

The day begins with a scenic drive into Mount Aspiring National Park, where the Rob Roy Glacier Track winds through lush beech forests. Following the Rob Roy Stream, the trail passes cascading waterfalls and a vibrant understorey of ferns and mosses before emerging above the tree line.

Higher up, alpine vegetation frames breathtaking views of the hanging glaciers beneath Mount Rob Roy. The steady incline makes for a rewarding climb, with plenty of time to take in the dramatic landscapes. Keep an eye out for kea, New Zealand’s mischievous mountain parrots, known for their love of unattended belongings.

The final day begins with a drive over the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, offering spectacular views en route to Queenstown. The highlight of the day is a climb through the sub-alpine landscapes of Ben Lomond (1,748m), where sweeping panoramas stretch over Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, and the Richardson Ranges.

After taking in the breathtaking scenery, the descent leads to the Skyline Gondola, providing a scenic ride down into Queenstown. A short walk into town marks the end of this unforgettable trekking adventure, leaving guests with lasting memories of New Zealand’s most remarkable alpine landscapes.