5-Day South Island Private Tour from Dunedin: Milford, Queenstown & Aoraki Highlights
Cover the South Island’s greatest hits in five days with a private guide: Te Anau glowworms, a Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, Queenstown thrills, Aoraki/Mt Cook vistas and the TranzAlpine train. This relaxed loop pairs scenic drives with optional adventures and local know-how.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changing weather
Southern Alps weather flips quickly—carry a waterproof shell and warm mid-layer even in summer.
Book optional activities early
Helicopter rides, fiord cruises and glowworm cave tours have limited slots; reserve these when you book the tour.
Bring sturdy footwear
Walks like Hooker Valley are well-formed but can be muddy and rocky after rain—trail shoes recommended.
Protect night-vision
If stargazing at Tekapo, avoid bright screens and use a red-light headlamp to preserve dark-adapted eyes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the Glenorchy Road for short photo stops at 'Paradise' viewpoints near Queenstown
- •Stroll the Mt John walking tracks above Lake Tekapo for a quieter observatory perspective
Wildlife
- •Kea (alpine parrot)
- •New Zealand fur seal
Conservation Note
Much of the itinerary crosses protected national parkland; follow DOC guidelines, support local operators who limit visitor impact, and respect Dark Sky Reserve rules at Tekapo.
The route crosses landscapes shaped by Maori use, the Otago gold rush and European pastoral settlement; the TranzAlpine follows a rail corridor that opened early in 20th-century NZ development.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the Milford Sound cruise for waterfalls and cliffs
- • Hooker Valley swing-bridge looking back to Aoraki/Mt Cook
- • Lake Pukaki viewpoint with the Mt Cook backdrop
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Keeps you dry through sudden alpine showers and wind on passes.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Needed for short alpine tracks, wet boardwalks and uneven viewpoints.
Daypack with water bottleEssential
Holds snacks, layers and a refillable bottle for long driving days and short walks.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Useful for spotting kea, seals, dolphins and distant mountain detail.
Common Questions
Do I need to drive on this tour?
No, private transport and a guide-driver are provided for all transfers and included sightseeing; guests do not need to drive.
Can I swap or add optional activities?
Yes—many activities are optional and can be added subject to availability and possible extra cost; confirm choices at booking or when the operator contacts you.
Is this tour suitable for children or infants?
Yes—infant seats are available and the itinerary is family-friendly, though some activities like helicopter flights or strenuous hikes may have age limits.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 6 full days before departure; 50% refund if canceled between 2–6 days; no refund within 2 days.
How physically demanding is the Hooker Valley walk?
Hooker Valley is an accessible alpine walk of roughly 10 km round-trip with modest elevation gain and well-maintained path—expect 3–4 hours return at a steady pace.
Are meals and accommodation included?
Basic snacks and bottled water are included; accommodation and tickets for optional activities are included only if you choose the 'With Hotels' or 'With Tickets' options at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days
Location
Dunedin, Otago
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in light to moderate fitness: mostly easy walks with a few optional 3–4 hour hikes; long coach transfers require mobility for short stops.
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