Expedition Pure New Zealand

Hikes and hidden gems through Middle-earth
Oct 30 – Nov 9, 2027

Ready for a wild, once-in-a-lifetime trek? We’re taking you deep into the heart of New Zealand for nine days of mind-blowing Alpine high – thank you, jagged peaks, turquoise lakes and an ancient forest straight out of a fairytale. You asked for more epic hiking, and we delivered: this is the adventure that puts New Zealand’s greatest walks and wild playground right at your boots.

We start in the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown, where the air practically buzzes with energy and the remarkable mountains close in on all sides. Every day brings a new highlight: legendary trails through Fiordland National Park, the mysterious, shrouded magic of Milford Sound, and secret spots only the locals know. I guide our Kiwi pros who know every shortcut, every hidden waterfall, and every jaw-dropping outlook. 

But it’s not just about the hikes – this trip is an all-out celebration of adventure. Try your hand at jet boating or the Skyline Luge, and if you’re feeling bold, there’s zip lining and bungee jumping to offer too. The grand finale? A cruise to the iconic Walter Peak sheep station, where we gather for an unforgettable farewell dinner on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

We know comfort matters, so you stay in our favorite hotels, always right in the center of action. With only three hotel changes, you’ll have more time to explore and less time living out of a suitcase. November is our sweet spot when spring blooms, crisp air, and perfect hiking weather.

New Zealand is the bucket list that you can’t ignore. Come see why Kiwis live life a little larger. This is your chance to hike, laugh, and feast your way through the best of the South Islands in AFS style.

Deposit: $ 500.

LAND PRICE: $4295 per person twin share + $90 prepaid gratuities = $4385

You can book for yourself and a friend, but all payments and communication will go through the person who makes the booking. We recommend that each person book separately. If you want to bring a friend, let us know—we save a few spots for this.

Add $1499 for single room that are limited

You’ll lose a day crossing the international dateline, but you’ll get it back on the return.

(Flight not included.)
Arrive at Queenstown Airport, step into that crisp South Island air, and meet your coach driver for a group transfer to the hotel—no guide today, just you and your first taste of Queenstown. Unpack, breathe in the lake air, and settle in at your own pace. Dinner’s taken care of.
Queenstown is New Zealand’s capital of adrenaline and nightlife—a town buzzing with energy, ringed by mountains that punch right through the sky. It hugs the shore of Lake Wakatipu, with the Remarkables mountain range stealing the show in every photo. Skiers, bikers, hikers, and thrill seekers all come here for a reason: this is where you go to feel awake. Walk the waterfront, watch the sun sink behind the peaks, and try not to fall for the view.
Accommodation: Millennium Queenstown – Superior Room (3 nights)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Today’s about earning your scenery. Meet your guide and take the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak (your legs will thank you), then hike the Ben Lomond Track. This one’s a classic for a reason: wild tussock, native bush, steady climbing, and then—suddenly—the saddle opens up and the world drops away. Lake Wakatipu, Cecil Peak, the Remarkables, all there for the gaping. Push for the summit at 1,748m for a 360° view that’ll stick with you. Along the way, your guide will fill you in on local geology, legends, and the oddball plants that thrive here.
Lunch isn’t included, so pack snacks and lots of water. Weather can turn in a flash—bring layers, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure.
Duration: 6 hours return. Weather dependent.

Breakfast at the hotel, then off to Glenorchy—one road, all drama, at the far end of the lake. Today’s hike is a group pick:
Option 1: Routeburn Track Day Walk. Sample a stretch of one of New Zealand’s Great Walks—think sweeping mountain views, beech forest, and the feeling you’re miles from anywhere.
Option 2: Paradise & Diamond Lake. Welcome to movie country—The Lord of the Rings, Wolverine, Mission Impossible. Walk through tangled bush and silent valleys in landscapes that barely look real.
Whichever you choose, your guide will make the place come alive. Expect a camera packed with proof and lungs full of fresh air by day’s end.

After breakfast, check out and travel by coach to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland.
The day’s highlight: a guided Routeburn Track hike to Key Summit. Start at the Divide, climb through mossy rainforest into alpine country, and lunch at the top with views of snow-streaked peaks, hanging valleys, and blue tarns. If the group’s up for it, you might wander farther into Greenstone Valley or take a short walk in the Hollyford. This is Fiordland: cold air, wild scenery, and the sense you’ve landed somewhere rare.
Hiking: 3–5 hours, 7–10km. Bring boots and layers—think rain, wind, sun, often all at once. Don’t forget snacks, water, sunblock, insect repellent, a hat, gloves, and your camera.
Check in at Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas – Standard Room, 3 nights. Group dinner tonight.

Breakfast, then the adventure kicks in. Jet boat the Waiau River—spray in your face, ancient forest on the banks, and scenery straight from a film set. Next, lace up for a guided Kepler Track walk to Rainbow Reach. Along the way, you’ll hit river beaches, wetlands, maybe spot a classic tramping hut. Your guide will share tales of Māori legend and local wildlife as you go.
Jet boating, hiking, and views you won’t forget.
Duration: 6 hours (approx.), 2–2.5 hours hiking (6km). Bring sturdy shoes, activewear, waterproofs, hat, gloves, snacks, water, insect repellent, and your camera.

Breakfast, then it’s off to Milford Sound. First, a guided walk on the famous Milford Track to Giant Gate Falls—rainforest, birds, and a taste of “the finest walk in the world.” Then cruise the Sound on a Real NZ vessel. Waterfalls pour down, cliffs rise up, and you might spot seals or dolphins in the spray. A packed lunch keeps the energy up. Return to Te Anau by evening.

Breakfast, check out, and back to Queenstown by coach. The afternoon is yours—wander, shop, or book an optional tour.
Tonight, it’s a proper sendoff. Cruise Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak for a gourmet BBQ dinner at the historic Colonel’s Homestead. Local lamb, seafood, salads, and desserts, all grilled while you watch. Afterwards, see a classic farm show—maybe even some sheep shearing—and cruise home under the stars, maybe with a sing-along if the mood’s right.
Optional (pre-booking required):
• Kawarau Bridge Bungy (USD$215): Leap from the world’s original 43m bungy site. Includes T-shirt, photos, video, and transport.
• Classic Wine Tour (USD$155): Sample Central Otago’s best at three cellar doors. Includes cheese board, wine cave tour, and commentary.
Accommodation: Millennium Queenstown – Superior Room (2 nights)

Breakfast. The day’s yours—go big, or take it slow. Optional tours:
• Gondola & 5 Luge Rides (USD$70): Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak, then five wild luge runs down.
• Kea 6-Line Ziptrek (USD$140): Zip through beech forest—six lines, big views, fast descents, 2.5–3 hours. Starts at the Skyline Gondola building.
Or just take it easy: sip a flat white at a lakeside café, browse the shops, or watch Queenstown do its thing.

Breakfast at the hotel, check out, and group transfer to Queenstown Airport. Bags full of dusty boots, head full of new stories.