Down Under Answers
New Zealand
Nature & Wildlife
Wander in Wilderness
2 nights Hollyford Track, South Island from $1,249.00 per person based on double occupancy
The Hollyford 3 Day Wilderness Journey is an all inclusive spectacular walk from the mountains to the sea that is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
INCLUSIONS
- Use of backpacks and rain jackets
- Expert guides will ensure your group (maximum 16 people) experiences New Zealand’s wilderness at its best
- Accommodation in well-appointed lodges, twin share
- Roundtrip transport from Queenstown or Te Anau to the track
- Meals and snacks
ITINERARY
The Hollyford 3 Day Wilderness Journey is an all inclusive spectacular walk from the mountains to the sea that is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. Unlike any other walk, the scenery is geologically spectacular and ever changing—snow capped mountains, glaciers, rainforests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, reefs, sand dunes and surf. The experiences are diverse, from hiking, wildlife interaction, historical tales, jet boating, and a magnificent scenic flight to Milford Sound.
DAY 1 Waterfalls, Pyke River Lodge, Glow Worms
Depart Queenstown by 7am, travel along side the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and on to Te Anau. After a brief stop, depart for the Hollyford Valley and travel through the majestic Eglington Valley to the start of the Track in the Hollyford Valley visiting Gunn’s Camp museum on the way. Then re-trace the footsteps of early explorers along the Hollyford River to Pyke River Lodge. As the Track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside tumbling waterfalls enjoy interesting historical tales and interpretation of the forest and bird life. In the evening you can visit the nearby glow-worm colony.
Walking Distance: Approx 17kms (12miles).
DAY 2 Lakes, Jet Boating, 1000 Year Old Trees and Wildlife Experience
Begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and learn of the history and geology of the area while in the midst of stunning surroundings. Cross Fiordland’s longest swing bridge and then enjoy a captivating jet boat journey down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown, the intended capital of the South Island in the late 19th century. Walk through the ancient Podocarp forest (New Zealand native pines) with huge Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea trees wrapped in massive Rata vines. Then visit the fur seal colony at Long Reef on the wild West Coast. You may see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Spend the night at Martins Bay Lodge.
Walking Distance: Approx 12kms (7miles).
DAY 3 Martins Bay Beach and Coastline /Scenic Flight to Milford Sound
Travel by jet boat to the beach and explore the 4 mile Martins Bay Beach, sand dunes and lagoon. Learn about its history and its plant, sea and bird life. Return to Martins Bay Lodge to enjoy a scenic flight to Milford Sound, with views of the Track route, Hollyford Valley and Mt Tutoko, Fiordland’s highest peak. Board your coach for your return journey to Queenstown or Te Anau with stops of interest along the way. Arrive back in Te Anau by 5 pm and Queenstown by approximately 7.30 pm. There is an option at additional cost to cruise Milford Sound if you wish.
Walking Distance: Approx 8 kms (5 miles).