13 Day Milford Track & South Island Explorer Self Drive

Touch down in Queenstown and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel, right in the heart of the action. Spend the day exploring this vibrant alpine town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, food, wine, and adventure options galore.

Today is yours to dive into Queenstown’s many sides – from lakeside strolls and market browsing to adrenaline activities and scenic cruises. In the afternoon, attend your essential pre-trek briefing with Ultimate Hikes for your upcoming Milford Track adventure.

Suggested Activity – Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Hold tight for 360° spins and high-speed thrills as you race through narrow canyons on Queenstown’s legendary jet boat ride.

Your Milford Track adventure officially begins today as you travel from Queenstown into the heart of Fiordland. A scenic coach journey takes you to Te Anau before boarding a boat across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau, surrounded by forested hills and distant peaks. On arrival at Glade Wharf, a short walk leads you to historic Glade House, nestled beneath towering beech trees at the edge of the track.

The afternoon is spent settling into lodge life and enjoying a gentle guided nature walk, giving you a feel for the terrain and the unique ecosystem of Fiordland. As evening falls, gather with your fellow walkers over a beautifully prepared dinner, sharing stories and anticipation for the days ahead in this remote wilderness.

Wake to birdsong and fresh mountain air as your first full day of walking unfolds along the Clinton River. The trail is smooth and gently rising, guiding you through lush beech forest with waterfalls tumbling from the valley walls and moss-covered ground beneath your feet. Along the way, you’ll explore wetlands unique to this region and enjoy a relaxed lunch beside the river.

As the valley opens, the scale of the landscape becomes more apparent, with sheer granite cliffs and the distant outline of McKinnon Pass ahead. A final steady climb brings you to Pompolona Lodge, perched above the valley floor, where hot showers and a hearty meal await after a satisfying day on the trail.

Today is the most dramatic and challenging day of the Milford Track as you climb steadily towards McKinnon Pass. Zig-zagging uphill, the forest gradually gives way to open alpine terrain, revealing expansive views back down the Clinton Valley. At the pass, pause at the memorial and enjoy lunch overlooking one of Fiordland’s most breathtaking panoramas.

The descent into the Arthur Valley is steep and rewarding, with waterfalls cascading beside the track and viewing platforms offering perfect photo opportunities. On arrival at Quintin Lodge, there’s time to rest before choosing to walk on to the magnificent Sutherland Falls — a powerful, thundering highlight that leaves a lasting impression.

Your final day on the Milford Track follows the Arthur River through ancient rainforest, where towering trees and ferns frame the path. Stop at the historic Boatshed for a hot drink before continuing past MacKay Falls and the dramatic Giants Gate waterfall, where lunch is enjoyed amid the mist and sound of rushing water.

The track then traces the calm shoreline of Lake Ada before reaching Sandfly Point, where a short boat ride carries you across the iconic waters of Milford Sound. Arriving at Mitre Peak Lodge, celebrate the completion of your journey with a relaxed evening, spectacular views of the fjord, and a well-earned final dinner.

Cruise the magical waters of Milford Sound and watch for dolphins, seals, and waterfalls. Then travel back to Queenstown via the scenic Milford Road and Homer Tunnel, with a stop in Te Anau along the way.

Collect your hire car and set off east through Central Otago’s goldfields, vineyards and fruit towns. Stop in historic Cromwell or Alexandra before reaching Dunedin – a coastal city known for its heritage and wildlife.

Suggested Activity – Skyline Gondola & Luge
Soak up the alpine views before hitting the road, then let gravity take over on the thrilling luge track.

Discover the Otago Peninsula’s rugged beauty and rich wildlife. Visit royal albatross and yellow-eyed penguin habitats, explore secluded beaches, and step inside New Zealand’s only castle.

Suggested Activity – Larnach Castle and Gardens
Wander through opulent halls and internationally acclaimed gardens with views to match.

Travel north past Moeraki Boulders and through Oamaru’s historic precinct before entering the wide-open spaces of the Waitaki Valley. The day ends with jaw-dropping views over Lake Pukaki as you arrive in Aoraki / Mt Cook Village. On arrival explore the life of a Kiwi legend and the mountaineering history of Aoraki / Mt Cook at this museum and theatre.

Walking Tracks in Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

Aoraki-Mt Cook Village offers a variety of short scenic walks suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Start your adventure at the Department of Conservation Information Centre, where you can learn about track conditions, local history, and the area’s wildlife.

Bowen Bush Walk: 10-minute return

Glencoe Walk: 10-minute return

Red Tarns Track: 2-hour return

Kea Point Walk: 2-hour return

Sealy Tarns Track: 3 - 4 hours return

Please be aware that at Aoraki/Mount Cook, you will need to pay for parking at the White Horse Hill car park. The cost is $5 per hour or $25 for the full day. A 20-minute free period is available for quick drop-offs.

Suggested Activity – The Panorama Room 3-Course Dinner
Dine in style with a view to match at this award-winning restaurant inside The Hermitage.

Take a Glacier Explorers small boat trip onto the Tasman Glacier lake and weave among floating icebergs in one of New Zealand’s rare glacial environments. The rest of your day is free to relax or take on one of the local walks.

Suggested Activity – The Panorama Room 3-Course Dinner
Dine in style with a view to match at this award-winning restaurant inside The Hermitage.

Drive north through the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and over Burkes Pass into the Canterbury Plains. Arrive in Christchurch and explore its lively mix of botanical gardens, heritage buildings and modern design.

Suggested Activity – Kai Safari with Amiki Cultural Food Tours
Take a local-led walking food tour and discover Christchurch through flavour, history and culture.

End your journey with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre – a fun and informative send-off featuring snowstorms, penguins and icy adventures. Return your vehicle and bid farewell to Aotearoa.

Suggested Activity – International Antarctic Centre
Experience Antarctica's sights and chill without leaving Christchurch – perfect for all ages.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
As the locals say, mā te wā – see you again soon.