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.
Located in Fiordland National Park, the remote and spectacular Hollyford Valley is one of the greatest walks within New Zealand.
On this 3 day, 3 night experience you'll traverse the valley by foot, jetboat and helicopter. Along the way your experienced guide will bring to life the diversity of the landscape, the history of the area and flora and fauna within it.
A fully inclusive trip, you'll enjoy personal service in our private lodges, first rate food and beverage prepared by lodge hosts, and have the opportunity to reconnect with New Zealand's stunning environment in the middle of Fiordland National Park.
A low-altitude walk, Hollyford Wilderness Experience is achievable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.
3 day, 3 night experience in the heart of Fiordland
Maximum group size of 16 people
Fully inclusive of all meals and beverages
Private coach transfers, jetboat and helicopter included
Minimal gear required
Exclusive lodges with private ensuite rooms
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Pre Trip
Join our private coach transfer from Queenstown to beautiful Te Anau, soaking in the scenery and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle. Before long we'll arrive at Distinction Hotel & Villas, on the shores of Lake Te Anau, our accommodation for the evening.
This evening you'll meet your guides and group, have a delicious three course dinner and attend the pre-departure briefing. It's here you'll learn everything you need to know about the next few days, collect any gear you'd like to borrow for the trip and ask any questions you have.
The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy - you're on holiday!
Day One
Ata marie!
You'll enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing Te Anau by private coach to the majestic Hollyford Valley, where we will officially begin our adventure.
You will follow the swift, clear waters of the Hollyford River, beneath the gaze of the mighty Southern Alps, including Fiordland National Park’s two iconic peaks, Mt Tutoko and Mt Madeline
Retrace the footsteps of original Māori and early pioneer explorers as the track undulates through native beech forest and beside impressive, tumbling waterfalls. There will be stops throughout the walk as our guides introduce you to the Valley and its unique flora and fauna, and take you back hundreds of years in time to when local Māori and settlers first arrived.
At the end of the first day of walking you’ll be welcomed at Ka Tuku Lodge by your friendly lodge hosts, who'll have a refreshing drink ready for you on arrival. Here you’ll enjoy a hot shower, delicious three course dinner and the opportunity to relax with a post dinner drink while reflecting on a great first day of your guided walk experience.
Day Two
As the morning sun shines over the mountains, enjoy a delicious breakfast and ease into your day.
We start the day with a short walk to the glistening Lake Alabaster and the optional crossing of one of Fiordland’s longest swing bridges.
After a quick morning tea and a short walk to the jetty, you'll board our jet boat for the next part of your adventure, an exciting scenic ride along the Hollyford River where the glassy waters whisk past and the mountains rise dramatically above.
We'll make a short stop in at Jamestown to hear the tales of this early settlement and more about the region, and after lunch you'll explore the Martins Bay sand dunes, a famous landmark separating the powerful Tasman Sea from the Hollyford Valley.
As the day draws to a close you'll be greeted by the team at Waitai Lodge. Take off your boots and relax with a glass of wine before dinner is served. Watch the sun set over the Hollyford River from in front of the fire, or head outside to our wood-fired hot tubs and toast the memories of a wonderful day.
Day Three
After another hearty breakfast, we will walk through the awe-inspiring podocarp forest, the perfect way to stretch your legs as you marvel at the ancient forest with thousand-year-old giants such as native Rimu and Kahikatea.
Returning to Waitai Lodge for lunch, your lodge hosts bid you farewell as you board the helicopter for a scenic flight along the rugged coastline and into the dramatic Milford Sound. Take in the stunning and rugged West Coast and marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite walls rising from the sea.
Once in Milford you’ll be met by our private coach and travel for your return to Te Anau. You'll get to experience the impressive Milford Road, and head up through the famous Homer Tunnel, which was cut through a divide of sheer granite rock.
In Te Anau we will stop to say farewell, collect any luggage stored at the Distinction Hotel, and start on our return trip to Queenstown and the completion of your time with us on the Hollyford Wilderness Experience.
Why Hollyford Wilderness Experience?
An all-inclusive experience with a balance of adventure and comfort, combining awe-inspiring landscapes with private lodges.. Here’s what’s in store for you:
- Fully inclusive pricing with all transport, meals and drinks included.
- Small group experience – maximum 16 guests per departure, meaning you'll get a personal experience.
- From mountains to the sea – explore from ancient rainforests alongside glacial rivers, while discovering the rich history of Māori culture and early European pioneers.
- Scenic helicopter flight through Milford Sound—a bucket-list experience soaring over breathtaking mountains and waterfalls.
- Enjoy an invigorating jet boat ride down the serene Lake McKerrow, offering a unique perspective of Fiordland’s beauty.
- Relax each evening in our private lodges, where gourmet meals, cold drinks and warm hospitality await.
- Take a soak and enjoy the view from the outdoor hot tubs at Waitai Lodge.
- Accessible valley walk – providing the perfect introduction to a wilderness experience.
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.
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.
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.