All South Island Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

(3,626)

from $220

2 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.5

(1,124)

from $77

Discover volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery on New Zealand’s South Island on this Akaroa day trip from Christchurch and avoid the need to self-drive. Ascend the Banks Peninsula for beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and the volcanic crater. Sample locally made cheeses and admire colonial architecture around Akaroa. Cruise by catamaran into the harbor, where diverse marine and bird life thrives, including rare Hector’s dolphins. Hotel transfers are included.

Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(303)

from $161

TranzAlpine Train Journey from Greymouth to Christchurch

4 hours 50 minutes

4.3

(202)

from $143

Mt Cook Full-Day Small Group Tour from Queenstown

12 hoursFree Cancellation

(261)

from $173

Located on the eastern shores of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is famous for the spectacular array of marine wildlife living off its shores—but to see the best of it, you have to take to the waves. On this tour, cruise into Kaikoura’s deep waters by speedy catamaran with running commentary throughout from your guide, and spot dolphins, seals, and sperm whales in their natural habitat.

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.5

(3,035)

from $107

Mt Cook & Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch (lunch included)

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Take a scenic round-trip or one-way journey through the wilds of New Zealand’s South Island on the Taieri Gorge railway from Dunedin. Departing from downtown Dunedin’s attractive railway station, you'll gaze out over ever-changing corners of the New Zealand countryside inaccessible by road. With informative and entertaining live commentary on board, gain insight into the railway’s construction and the challenges faced by engineers—in addition to the epic views.

(231)

from $179

Taieri Gorge Scenic Railway Journey from Dunedin

Taieri Gorge Scenic Railway Journey from Dunedin

5 hours

4.5

(965)

from $101

-IMPORTANT UPDATE- *Operating year-round with no minimum passenger requirement and a capacity of up to 60 passengers, our shuttle lets you enjoy this self-guided walk at your own pace and share this unforgettable experience with fellow travellers. Experience the freedom of exploring Mount Cook National Park on a day trip with us! - Highly recommended for the following people - Hikers and Adventurers: For those seeking outdoor adventures and hiking opportunities, our one-day trip is the perfect choice. You have enough time to complete the Hooker Valley Track at your own pace. Photography Enthusiasts: If capturing picturesque landscapes is your passion, the scenic views along the way and at Mount Cook will provide you with ample opportunities for remarkable photographs. Family and Friends: The tour caters to all age groups, making it a great choice for families and friends to create lasting memories together.

Tekapo Shuttle: Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook National Park

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(47)

from $101

Travel along the spectacular Milford Road on a full-day Milford Sound tour from Te Anau. See native wildlife such as the endangered kea (an alpine parrot), seals, dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins. Enjoy short walks to beautiful sights including the Chasm and Marian Cascade, and take a sightseeing cruise on Milford Sound. Includes entrance fees, boat cruise, morning tea, and hotel transfers.

Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau

Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(1,303)

from $188

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(659)

from $551

The TranzAlpine train is often referred to as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, and this tour will allow you to experience it. Enjoy the convenience of a day trip where all transport is taken care of— round-trip transfers in a luxury minivan, and a TranzAlpine train ticket are included. See Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Lake Pearson, and get the chance to walk in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

10 hoursFree Cancellation

(491)

from $238

Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour from Christchurch

Aerial views of Kaikoura Sperm Whales & Boat

11 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(193)

from $221

Ride a train through the Southern Alps on a remarkable scenic journey aboard the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth. Enjoy views of native beech forest, snow-sprinkled mountains, the powerful Waimakariri River, and Arthur's Pass National Park from a comfortable carriage and open viewing deck. For getting the history and context of the landmarks along the railway, GPS-triggered audio commentary is available through headphones at every seat.

TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth

4 hours 50 minutes

4.3

(353)

from $143

Glenorchy sits along a stunningly beautiful stretch of road from Queenstown to the (aptly named) rural settlement of Paradise. Instead of trying to negotiate these unfamiliar country roads on your own, get a driver who knows the region on a half-day trip. Spend time exploring Glenorchy’s shops and café, take advantage of some remarkable alpine photo ops, and see some of the locations where scenes from famous movies were filmed.

Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Visit Edoras of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ fame on this full-day excursion by 4WD vehicle to the peak of New Zealand’s Mt Sunday. Get a look at exclusive photos of Edoras under construction and learn from a knowledgeable LOTR guide about its transformation from tranquil countryside to mythical capital city of the Rohan people. Pose with replica props from the popular trilogy, such as Aragorn’s sword, Gimli’s axe and the flag of Rohan. Includes round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch plus a picnic lunch with sparkling wine.

(484)

from $113

Lord of the Rings - Journey to Edoras Tour

Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch

9 hoursFree Cancellation

(378)

from $194

Stargazing needs clear skies and little to no light pollution—usually at a remote location that’s hard to reach independently. Join a group and astronomer-guides as you travel from Tekapo to the University of Canterbury Mt. John Observatory, perched atop the mountain peak at 3,375 feet. At this world-class facility, powerful telescopes offer clear views of stars, solar systems, and constellations.

Tekapo: Mt. John Observatory Guided Stargazing Experience

Tekapo: Mt. John Observatory Guided Stargazing Experience

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

4.4

(188)

from $134

Christchurch to Queenstown One-Way Tour via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo

14 hoursFree Cancellation

(111)

from $238

Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike

3 hoursFree Cancellation

This Doubtful Sound overnight cruise takes you over Manapouri Lake to this South Island gem in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park. Board the ‘Wanderer,’ a 3-mast motorized boat designed on a traditional scow, and cruise past soaring granite peaks in New Zealand’s second-largest fiord. Learn from an onboard nature guide about wildlife such as fur seals, penguins, and bottlenose dolphins. Then spend the night in a comfortable cabin, including a 3-course dinner and breakfast.

(41)

from $579

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

2 days

Enjoy unobstructed views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain—Aoraki Mt. Cook—as well as some of the South Island’s most beautiful natural landscapes without having to drive yourself. Join an easy guided full-day tour from Christchurch that takes you past Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, fields of lavender (summer season only), and to hiking trails in Mt. Cook National Park to see the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. End back in Christchurch.

(281)

from $448

Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy mountain and lake views from a different angle when you cruise from Queenstown aboard the vintage “TSS Earnslaw” steamship or the modern “Spirit of Queenstown” catamaran across Lake Wakatipu to the Walter Peak High Country Farm. Refuel with a gourmet barbecue lunch featuring Central Otago specialties, salads, desserts, and local cheeses at the Colonel’s Homestead. Learn about local rural life during sheep-shearing and sheepdog demonstrations at the farm.

(385)

from $149

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

A Milford Sound cruise is a must-do activity in southern New Zealand, but getting there independently can be stressful because of the rugged mountain roads. This full-day tour from Te Anau includes a hotel pickup and picnic lunch, so you don’t need to pack your own. Watch the views rather than the road by going with a guide and driver. See many spectacular sights along the way, including Mirror Lakes.

(1,368)

from $101

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Explore Fiordland National Park's Doubtful Sound on this full-day cruise from Manapouri. Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, then a short coach journey over Wilmot Pass, with stunning views. Cruise the 25-mile (40-kilometer) stretch of Doubtful Sound, looking out for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins while listening to your naturalist guide’s commentary. A highlight is when the engines are cut so you can appreciate the silence.

(950)

from $179

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

(564)

from $215

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What are people saying about South Island

Audra_R, Aug 2026

Thank you Andy!

We were a group of 4 friends traveling together and this was an amazing tour. It was a small group so we were comfortable in a van rather than a large bus on the drive to and from Milford sound. They provided great packed lunches that seemed more substantial and organized than any other tour we saw. Andy was our tour guide and was WONDERFUL. He was nice, knowledgeable, funny, and accommodating. We learned a lot from him and he provided great recommendations for other things to do in the area. The stopping points on the way to Milford sound were beautiful and perfectly timed. There were plenty of opportunities to stop and use the restroom as well. Additionally, there were always snacks and waters available in the van. Andy had a great playlist and commentary that made the time pass quickly. Would recommend this tour to anyone, it is much better than trying to do it on your own.

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Dakkota_M, Aug 2026

A once in a lifetime...

A once in a lifetime experience. Sarah was our guide and she was incredibly knowledgeable about the glacier, and made sure to take us on a fun and beautiful adventure across the glacier. The company was very honest about potential weather cancellations, and handled a surprise cloud cover with very practiced calm. Highly recommend doing this tour!

Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Shalini_S, Aug 2026

An amazing journey!

Excellent intro to Fjordland park and misnomer Milford Sound.! Plenty of stops on the way for loo breaks, and scenic pictures. The journey to Milford Sound was just as amazing as the boat ride there. Ashleigh was an amazing guide and ensured that we saw all the key sites and local wildlife!

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

Sue_A, Aug 2026

Sue and Sarah Milford Sound

Well organised, interesting and engaging tour of the road journey from Te Anua to Milford Sound and back, plus the small boat cruise. Jason was an excellent tour guide. He was very informative and easy to listen to and understand. He was also a good, safe driver. He did his best to make the day enjoyable for our small group.

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Emma_W, Jul 2026

A beautiful way to relax...

A beautiful way to relax on steam boat sailing along the lake Whakatipu it was interesting to see how the steam boat works as you can observe above them in a special viewing room beautifully maintained throughout the boat. Absolutely gorgeous views to Walter park Walter park was a great place to see some animals with a fun sheep shearing show An amazing buffet for lunch with all fresh Local ingredients Highly recommended !!!!

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

Hannah_K, Jul 2026

Flying is the way to go!

This was one of the highlights of my trip! Flying to Milford Sound, taking the cruise, and flying back was absolutely worth it. The scenic flight saved so much travel time and offered breathtaking views. We were fortunate to have a beautiful, clear day, and Milford Sound truly lived up to its reputation. Every moment felt majestic, from the towering peaks to the waterfalls and stunning scenery. A special thank you to our pilot, Michael, who was both informative and kind. His commentary throughout the flight added so much to the experience, and he made everyone feel safe and comfortable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to experience Milford Sound in the most unforgettable way.

Milford Sound Coach and Cruise tour from Queenstown

Hiteshkumar_P, Jul 2026

Milford sound/ Heaven

It's unforgottable, feels like it's heaven as it was named originally. Can't explain in words, can't be captured in photoes or videos. Further to this the coach service was outstanding and road trip was fully filled with stunning views. Our Pure Milford coach driver "NAOKI" was excellent in providing live commentary through the way.

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Peter_G, Jun 2026

Amazing Day - Loved the Train!

It was a fabulous experience. The train was gorgeous and the views were unbeatable. Plus, the staff was incredibly kind. The driver was great with fun facts and lots of yummy snacks. I really enjoyed the hike and other walks included - lots of stops and viewpoints, which was great. Really great tour - I recommend it, especially the train!

Milford Sound Cruise

Guy_S, Apr 2026

Excellent - particularly capital and crew

Pure Milford - great way to see the sound. The capital and crew were BY FAR the friendliest, most accommodating, and knowledgeable people I've encountered on a short cruise like this. Heck, they will even take your picture without any bother. Boat was clean, free coffee drinks (cappuccino, mocha, etc).

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown

Valerie_H, Apr 2026

5/5 stars. No notes.

A must do while in Queenstown! My husband and I had the best time on this experience! A quick 10 min drive out of Queenstown, plenty of parking, and really easy to find. There is a lovely brewery/restaurant next to the river to grab a beer/bite before or after the jet boat ride. We didn't eat, but the beers were good! (The food did look good though.) Shotover was running about 10 min behind for the day, so we didn't get on the river at our schedule time, but it was within 10 min. The weather was a perfect fall day, and the sun was out, but it was still a bit chilly on the river. You will get wet, so dress for the experience. Josh, our boat captain, was awesome! He was fun, knowledgeable, and a very skilled driver. He constantly checked-in to make sure everyone was okay and having a good time. You can tell he loves what he does for a living. The views down the river and through the canyons are stunning. The only downfall of the experience is that you can't take photos or videos while the boat is moving. You really have to take it all in and be present in the moment to get the full experience, which is good. The boat gets so close to the rocks and you feel the cold, fresh water on your face -- it is awesome. I would recommend this experience to anyone who visits Queenstown and I would do it again myself.

2-Hour Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Andrzej_B, Mar 2026

Wow!,,

Top notch trip! We were lucky that it rained overnight so, while it was cloudy and not too warm, the waterfalls were spectacular. A wonderful activity, one not to be missed. A couple of criticisms, however. We were warned that parking could be a problem and that was so true. However, the information about a shuttle operating every 15 mins was not true… there wasn’t one at all. Also, apparently there are several overflow parking lots which staff are supposed to manage.… but we did not see that happen.