The guides were outstanding, so much knowledge of the area. The hosts at the lodges were very welcoming, the drivers of boats, buses and helicopters great. We saw more and learnt more than if we had done a freedom walk- seals sand dunes and extra out of way scenery. if you haven’t done much multi day hiking this is a great walk with minimal challenges. Would recommend Hollyford Wilderness Experience without hesitation.
HOLLYFORD WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Experience one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most remarkable wilderness journeys.
From $4,395 NZD
Discover the Hollyford Wilderness Experience; a fully guided, all-inclusive 3-day journey through the heart of Fiordland National Park, part of Te Wāhipounamu, New Zealand's UNESCO World Heritage Area.
Following the length of the spectacular Hollyford Valley, from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea, you'll explore ancient rainforest, remote coastline and breathtaking mountain landscapes by foot, jet boat and helicopter. Led by expert local guides, you'll follow the path of our tīpuna (ancestors), uncovering the stories, history and natural wonders that make the Hollyford unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.
By day, immerse yourself in one of New Zealand's most diverse wilderness environments. By night, relax in private lodges with warm hospitality, inspired cuisine and all the comforts of home.
More than a Great Walk, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience offers a rare opportunity to explore Fiordland from mountains to sea in a way few ever will.
WHY CHOOSE HOLLYFORD?
Rated 4.9 stars on Tripadvisor, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience consistently exceeds expectations, here's why:
- All-inclusive – Transport, accommodation, meals, snacks and drinks included, with no hidden costs.
- Small Group Adventure – Maximum 16 guests for a personal, immersive experience.
- Mountains to Sea – Journey from alpine valleys to rugged coastline through one of New Zealand's most diverse wilderness landscapes.
- Scenic Helicopter Flight – Soar above Piopiotahi / Milford Sound and Fiordland's towering peaks and waterfalls.
- Jet Boat Experience – Explore the Hollyford River and Lake McKerrow from a unique perspective.
- Private Accommodation – Stay in comfortable wilderness lodges, with private rooms and welcoming hosts.
- Exceptional Food & Beverage – Enjoy chef-prepared meals, local flavours and a selection of premium beverages.
- Outdoor Hot Tubs – Relax beneath the stars at Waitai Lodge on Fiordland's remote West Coast.
- Achievable – A low-altitude valley walk suited to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
- Walk lighter – Enjoy two days of walking with only a daypack while we transport your luggage between lodges.
Quiet luxury
After each day in the wilderness, return to private lodges, welcoming hosts, inspired cuisine and the comfort of a warm bed in spectacular surroundings.
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Unique adventure
Explore Fiordland by land, water and air. From jet boating down the Hollyford River to soaring above Milford Sound by helicopter, every day brings a new perspective.
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Inspiring scenery
Journey from the mountains to the sea through Fiordland's ancient rainforest, glacial rivers and remote coastline, discovering one of New Zealand's most diverse wilderness landscapes.
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EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is not your typical walk – it’s an immersive journey through one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most remarkable wilderness areas, guided by people who know the stories, history and spirit of the land.
Passionate experts in their respective fields, our guides bring the landscape to life through their knowledge of Fiordland's natural environment, history, geography and cultural heritage. Along the way, you'll hear stories passed down through generations and gain a deeper understanding of the connection Ngāi Tahu holds with this extraordinary place.
Travelling in small groups of no more than 16 guests, you'll enjoy a personal experience and the opportunity to discover the Hollyford through the eyes of those who know it best.
Your wilderness itinerary
Day One - Queenstown to Te Anau
- Begin your adventure by travelling from Queenstown to the lakeside town of Te Anau on our private coach to your first night's accommodation at the Distinction Hotel & Villas.
- Attend the pre-departure briefing, where your knowledgeable guides will talk you through all you need to know, such as what to include in your tramping pack and answer any questions you may have.
- Mix and mingle over dinner with your fellow walkers before settling into your hotel room for the evening.
Day Two - Te Anau to Ka Tuku Lodge
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking our private Hollyford Track transport into the remote Hollyford Valley to begin your adventure.
- Walk 19.5km beneath towering native beech trees and alongside ancient rivers, with stories shared by your guide bringing the landscape to life.
- You'll explore hidden waterfalls, wander through ancient native bush in awe of the plethora of green shades and learn about the unique flora and fauna and hear tales of those who roamed the paths of the Hollyford Track before you.
- Spend the night at Ka Tuku Lodge, a warm, welcoming retreat deep in the wilderness. Nestled beneath Mt. Madeline, where our welcoming lodge hosts and an impressive three-course meal awaits.
Day Three - Ka Tuku Lodge to Martins Bay
- 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.
- Board our jet boat and head down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow out to Martins Bay on the West Coast.
- Walk through ancient podocarp forest and explore the historic site of Jamestown, one of New Zealand’s early European settlements.
- After an impressive lunch you will explore the Martins Bay sand dunes, wandering along the isolated beach, taking in the rugged beauty of the wild West Coast.
- Arrive at your home for the night, Waitai Lodge, nestled between native bush and the sea.
- Enjoy the manaakitanga (hospitality) of our dedicated lodge hosts and relax for the evening in one of the wood-fired hot tubs under the clear Fiordland night sky.
Day Four - Martins Bay to Queenstown
- After another hearty cooked breakfast, you'll be ready to embark on your final walk of the Hollyford Track, the awe-inspiring podocarp forest, bordering the rugged West Coast.
- Return to Waitai Lodge to embark on your scenic helicopter flight from Martins Bay, back through the iconic and dramatic Piopiotahi / Milford Sound.
- Upon arrival into Milford Sound, your friendly coach driver will be awaiting to drive you back to Queenstown (or Te Anau if desired) via the impressive Milford Road.
The Hollyford track is fantastic. Wonderful flora and fauna, beautiful old forests, bird life. The icing on the cake were the guides, Elly & Izzy, who made it come to life with the stories they shared of the Hollyford track and it’s people ; so creating the memories that will last.
After many years of lugging packs in small groups of friends, we found we adored this trip - the jet boat, the helicopter ride, making it possible to do the track in 3 days and enhancing the experience, the comfy lodges and beds, and amazing meals excellent indeed.
This was our first time in the Fiordland National Park and the Hollyford Vally and to be there with your guides, benefiting from their knowledge and experience, was so appreciated.
We loved the elegant simplicity and comfort of the two lodges and the welcomes made us feel special and pampered. The evening meals were delicious, and all the other treats were delightful and surprising. This is a time we will remember always. Thank you.
A scenic wonderland with much variety. Stupendous bush. Good trail. Excellent guides who are solicitous and aware of your needs. Accommodation is superb and all the staff at the lodges welcoming and prepare stunning meals.
Wonderful, wonderful experience. Not a traditional track in which you just hike every day to get from point A to point B. Day one was a long, wonderful hike through a gorgeous valley. Day 2 was a short hike to a lake, then a fun and scenic jet boat ride. Day 3 was a hike on the beach, and then a spectacular helicopter ride to Milford Sound. The two lodges were amazing and the food excellent. The whole experience was first class.
THE HOLLYFORD DIFFERENCE
A journey unlike any other, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience combines world-class scenery, unique adventure and exceptional hospitality into one unforgettable journey.
HOLLYFORD WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE |
GUIDED GREAT WALK |
SELF-GUIDED GREAT WALK |
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| Spectacular scenery |
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| Fully hosted by expert guides |
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| Premium three course dining |
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| Max. 16 guests per departure |
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| Māori storytelling and local history |
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| Private bedrooms |
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| Ensuite bathrooms |
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| All transport included |
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| Scenic helicopter flight |
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| Outdoor hot tubs |
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| Jet boat adventure | ✓ | — | — |
Features shown are indicative of typical guided and self-guided Great Walk experiences and may vary between operators.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hollyford Wilderness Experience?
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a fully guided, all-inclusive 3-day journey through Fiordland National Park. Travelling by foot, jet boat and helicopter, guests explore the spectacular Hollyford Valley from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea while staying in private wilderness lodges and enjoying exceptional food, hospitality and expert guiding.
What do I need to bring?
A recommended gear check list for the Hollyford Wilderness Experience can be viewed here.
We have a range of top quality gear available for guests to use, including packs, day packs, rain gear and walking poles, all available for you to pick up when the group comes together for the pre-briefing in Te Anau.
Feel free to talk to the team about what to pop in your pack!
Who is the Hollyford Wilderness Experience for?
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is ideal for active travellers seeking a premium wilderness adventure without sacrificing comfort. It suits couples, empty nesters, first-time multi-day walkers and experienced hikers alike. With private lodges, small groups and expert guides, it offers an immersive way to experience Fiordland for those looking for more than a traditional hiking holiday.
How difficult is the walk, and am I fit enough?
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a valley walk, suitable for most ages (10+). However, the days are long. The track has a mixture of well-formed flat trail as well as areas of undulating, uneven ground with tree roots and rocky terrain. The first day of walking in particular can be quite tiring as you walk 19.5km in approximately 7 hours and you are required to carry your full pack. If you have a reasonable level of fitness, you will find it pleasantly challenging, and highly rewarding!
To prepare yourself, we recommend structuring a training programme (at least 6 weeks beforehand) to ensure your walk with us is comfortable and therefore enjoyable. Some helpful tips are:
- Start simple and around town - brisk walks of approx. 1 hour
- Wear a backpack weighing about 6kgs to simulate what you will carry on Day Two (only) of your Hollyford Wilderness Experience
- One month out increase your walks to 3 hours – more as you get fitter - and try bush tracks or uneven terrain to develop balance and the different muscle groups needed
- Hills and stair work will greatly improve fitness
- Walk in the rain if possible as we do experience wet weather on the track, so it helps to get used to it.
- Walk in the boots and socks you’ll be wearing on the Hollyford to make sure they are comfortable and fit well.
- Remember hydration and nutrition even in training – drink plenty of water and eat snack foods such as muesli bars, banana chips and chocolate. If you do this in your training walks, your body will become used to processing food whilst on the move.
I have specific dietary requirements. Can you cater for me?
Given our remote location it is difficult to cater specifically to all dietary requests. However, we can cater for the following if we know well in advance of your arrival:
- Vegetarian will / will not eat fish
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Coeliac
- Dairy Free / Lactose Intolerant
At the time of booking you will be asked to confirm any such dietary requirements. If you have any food allergies, please let us know.
How many people are there on each trip?
On the Hollyford Wilderness Experience, we keep our groups small to allow a more intimate and personalised guided walking experience. On each trip there are 2 guides to a maximum of 16 walkers.
When is the best time of year to do the Hollyford Wilderness Experience?
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience operates all summer, through to early autumn. The flora and fauna in the valley can vary within this period and weather is as settled as we can expect in Fiordland National Park.
How is the Hollyford Wilderness Experience different from other New Zealand walks?
Unlike most multi-day walks in New Zealand, the Hollyford combines guided walking, jet boat travel and a scenic helicopter flight into one seamless journey. Travelling through Fiordland National Park, part of the UNESCO-listed Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area, guests experience rainforest, mountains, rivers and remote coastline while staying in private lodges and enjoying fully guided, all-inclusive hospitality throughout.
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Three days, one incredible journey. Secure your place today.
