Three Days. One Life-Changing Journey.
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a 3 day 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, jetboat, and helicopter as your guide brings to life the diversity of the landscape, vegetation, wildlife, and history.
You will enjoy cuisine prepared and served by our friendly lodge hosts while relaxing in our well-appointed private lodges. A maximum number of 16 people in your group provides for a personal experience, with your guide sharing their intimate knowledge of the area with you.
The human history in the Hollyford Valley is just as incredible as the scenery. Throughout your multi day 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.
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. Your knowledgeable guides will talk you through all you need to know at the pre-departure briefing, 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.
Bus
Travel by private coach from Queenstown to Te Anau.
Eat
Pre-departure briefing and dinner with fellow guests.
Stay
Stay the night at the Distinction Hotel.
Day Two - Te Anau to Ka Tuku Lodge
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking our private coach into the remote Hollyford Valley to begin your wilderness experience.
On this first day on the Hollyford Track, you will 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 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. Celebrate the achievements of the day over a glass of Central Otago wine or a refreshing craft beer.
Bus
Travel by private coach to the start of the Hollyford Valley.
Walk
Walk 19.5kms to Ka Tuku Lodge.
Eat
Enjoy a well deserved gourmet three course meal.
Stay
Enjoy your first night on the track at Ka Tuku Lodge.
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.
Walk
After a hearty breakfast, start the day with a 4km walk.
Jet Boat
Explore the Hollyford River and Lake McKerrow by boat.
Walk
Walk 8km exploring Martins Bay sand dunes.
Eat
Finish the day with a sumptuous three course dinner.
Stay
Settle in for the night at the cosy, Waitai Lodge.
Day Four - Martins Bay to Queenstown
After another hearty cooked breakfast, you'll be ready to embark on your final walk of the Hollyford, the awe-inspiring podocarp forest, bordering the rugged West Coast. 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 Piopiotahi / 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 awaiting to drive you back to Queenstown (or Te Anau if desired) via the impressive Milford Road.
Every step of your Hollyford Wilderness Experience is supported - private rooms, hot tubs, chef-prepared meals, helicopter transfers and expert guides. This is adventure made comfortable, without compromise.
Walk
Wander 3.5km through ancient forests.
Helicopter
Take a stunning scenic flight through Milford Sound.
Bus
Travel the iconic Milford road back to Queenstown.
Your Trip Route
