Best Of Southern Alps Trek

Christchurch to Rex Simpson hut

We will collect you from a central city location in Christchurch around 08:00am before we drive south to Fairlie and inland to Lake Tekapo for lunch. We drive along Tekapo's lakeside to Mt Gerald station and then hike 3-4 hours into the Rex Simpson Hut, (a 12 bunk private hut on the station). To greet us are stunning vistas across the lake and into the rolling tussock landscape that surrounds the area. (Up to 3-4 hours walking). As day turns to night we savour the sun setting behind mountain silhouettes and a star-studded sky - one of the clearest and darkest skies in the southern hemisphere and enjoy a hearty meal prepared by your guides.The hut consists of three rooms, sleeping 12 participants and 2 guides in total. There are no showers and the toilet is a traditional longdrop loo with a view! The hut is fully equipped with pot belly stove, firewood, gas, and solar lighting. Sleeping bags, pillows and mattresses are at the hut; liners and pillow cases are provided each trip. It provides a comfortable and unique place to call home for the night. Note: Please remember we will be staying in an alpine hut on this first evening, you will not need to take all your luggage with you and we suggest packing a small overnight bag with clothing suitable for staying in an alpine environment. If necessary we can provide small overnight packs and walking poles.

Rex Simpson Hut to Lake Tekapo

From the hut we climb onto a broad easy spur which gradually gains height showcasing breathtaking views back down the lake and across to the Southern Alps with the prominent east faces of Mt Cook and Tasman. For the strong trekker, the summit of Beuzenberg Peak at 2070m is a just reward. Back at the hut we pack up and return to our vehicle for the short drive back to Lake Tekapo and our motel accommodation. (Up to 6-8 hours walking).

Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook Village

Mt Cook beckons as we drive 90 mins to the heart of the National Park. From here a number of hikes are available dependant upon weather conditions and fitness levels from the previous day. Mt Sebastopol and the mountain tarns are a favourite as is the Hooker Valley with its profuse vegetation. (Up to 4-5 hours walking). Nearby Red Tarns with stunning views directly onto Mt Sefton involves the treadmill of the staircase that climbs quickly to this stunning view point. From here we get views directly up the Hooker valley and back down the Tasman Valley. Tonight’s accommodation is within the Mt Cook Village itself with outstanding views of the sun setting on the peaks.

Mt Cook Village to Lake Ohau

In the morning we have a further walk in the area, usually dictated by what we achieved yesterday. For some the Hooker Valley hike will be a delight, while for others the nearby Sealy Tarns awaits. After a late lunch we drive south and onto Lake Ohau Lodge for the overnight before a short bush walk to explore the beech forest remnants in the area.

Lake Ohau to Wanaka

Leaving the Mackenzie basin we cross ‘water-sheds’ and drive over the Lindis Pass through to Wanaka. This afternoon we will enjoy a walk to stretch our legs, while enjoying stunning views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Our trail winds its way around the east side of Rocky Mountain to the summit offering a superb vista into the Mount Aspiring National Park. We decend via Diamond Lake and then drive to Wanaka for the night.

Wanaka to Queenstown

From an early start we drive to the nearby village of Makarora and our final hike of the trip. We first fly into the Siberia Valley deep in the heart of the Mount Aspiring National Park. From our landing point we begin our hike through remote Tussock lands, and marvel at the vistas, being surrounded by the snow capped Southern Alps. Arriving at the banks of the crystal blue Wilkin River we then embark on the final chapter in our adventure, an exhilarating jet boat ride back to Makarora. On landing we drive to Queenstown and deliver you to your accommodation of choice.