The Hollyford Wilderness Experience

Renowned for its adrenaline inducing activities Queenstown is synonymous with adventure. Parked on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this small alpine town is nestled below soaring vistas of The Remarkables Mountain Range. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. Spend time on the Gibbston wine trail and end with a meal at Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s restaurant, Rata. Take a trip down memory lane on a 100 year old steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Soak in the scenery on your walk around the lake, or venture further afield into Fiordland National Park. Head over the hill to resort town Wanaka, or re-live scenes from Lord Of The Rings by four wheel drive. But - if you really do want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon swing or Zip line the Gondola. Just be sure it's done on an empty stomach  – don’t say we didn’t warn you!

On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Queenstown accommodation.

The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a 4-day  and 3-night all-inclusive adventure exploring the remote and spectacular Hollyford Valley, which has remained largely untouched for thousands of years. Following your experienced guide, you will traverse this historic valley by foot, jet boat, and finally, helicopter as your guide brings to life the diversity of the landscape, vegetation, wildlife, and history. You will enjoy cuisine prepared and served by friendly lodge hosts while relaxing in well-appointed private lodges. Throughout your adventure you’ll discover the triumphs and tragedies of ill-fated Jamestown, you’ll pass ancient forests with thousand-year-old giants such as native Rimu, Totara, and Kahikatea, and soon, the towering lowland podocarp forest transforms into a tenacious coastal garden. It is a wonderful way to explore the very essence of New Zealand’s wilderness.

Begin your adventure by traveling from Queenstown to the lakeside town of Te Anau on a private coach to attend a comprehensive pre-departure briefing. Your knowledgeable guides will talk you through all you need to know before setting off, what to include in your tramping pack, and the chance to answer any questions you may have.
Mix and mingle over dinner with your fellow walkers before settling into your hotel room for the evening.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking a private coach into the remote Hollyford Valley to begin your Wilderness Experience. On this first day within the valley, you will walk 19.5km exploring hidden waterfalls, wandering through ancient native bush in awe of the plethora of green shades around you. Learn about the unique flora and fauna and hear tales of those who roamed the paths of the Hollyford before you.
Finish the day at Ka Tuku Lodge, nestled beneath Mt. Madeline, where our welcoming lodge hosts and an impressive three-course meal await. Celebrate the achievements of the day over a glass of Central Otago wine or a refreshing craft beer.

Start your day with a plentiful breakfast at Ka Tuku Lodge before heading out on a short walk to Wāwāhi Waka (Lake Alabaster), on your way back stop at the infamous Pyke Bridge – the longest swing bridge in Fiordland National Park.
Embark by jet boat down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow out to Martins Bay. After an impressive lunch, you will explore the Martins Bay sand dunes. Wander along the isolated beach, taking in the rugged beauty of the wild West Coast.
Arrive at your home for the night at Waitai Lodge where your three-course meal and toast in celebration of the vast array of vistas encountered today awaits.

After another hearty-cooked breakfast, you will be ready to embark on your final walking leg of the Hollyford journey, the awe-inspiring podocarp forest. Marvel at the ancient forests with thousand-year-old giants such as the native Rimu and Kahikatea.
Return to Waitai Lodge to embark on your scenic helicopter flight back through the iconic and dramatic Milford Sound. Marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite cliff faces and breathtaking waterfalls hidden away in the lush native forest.
Upon arrival into Milford Sound, your friendly coach driver will be waiting to drive you back to Queenstown (or Te Anau if desired) via the impressive Milford Road. 

Well-known as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, from the world's first and most famous bungy jumps to jet boat thrills, white-water rafting, and skydiving. However, Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced, action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by many historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Take a stroll through the beautiful lakefront parks and gardens, browse through market stalls on weekends, dine in wonderful al-fresco restaurants, or ride on the 100-year-old historic Steamship - TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station. Take the Queenstown Gondola up to Bob's Peak and soak up the panoramic views of the magnificent lake and mountain ranges. And after all of that, if you do want the adrenaline rush, Queenstown is known for taking your pick from the Shotover Jet, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge, or Heli-hike.

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Queenstown airport to meet your flight.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!