5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch

Introducing the 5 Day South Island Circuit: Trains, Glaciers, and Milford Sound from Christchurch

This 5-day tour promises a taste of the South Island’s most breathtaking sights, from scenic train rides to glacier adventures and iconic fiords. While it covers a lot of ground, it’s designed for those who want a semi-independent experience with guided highlights.

What stood out to us are the spectacular views aboard the TranzAlpine train, the opportunity to explore glaciers firsthand, and the immersive Milford Sound cruise. These key moments truly showcase New Zealand’s rugged beauty. However, some travelers might find the itinerary a bit rushed or be concerned about the miscommunication reported in reviews, especially regarding the heli-hike check-in times.

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers who enjoy a mix of guided activities and free exploration, especially if you want to see major highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s also suitable for those with a moderate budget seeking a comprehensive South Island overview.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: From the Canterbury Plains to Fiordland, the views are unforgettable.
• Diverse activities: Trains, glaciers, and boat cruises combine to create a varied experience.
• Flexible free time: Allows exploration of glaciers and Queenstown at your own pace.
• Comfortable transport: Modern coach and luxury train make the journey smooth.
• Mixed reviews: Some issues with communication highlight the importance of staying alert.
• Good for moderate travelers: Combines guided and independent moments for a balanced trip.

The Journey Begins: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

Your adventure kicks off with one of the world’s most celebrated train journeys. The TranzAlpine train takes around five hours, weaving through some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll cross the Canterbury Plains, a patchwork of farmland, before ascending into the Southern Alps, where the scenery turns rugged and dramatic. The large panoramic windows make it easy to appreciate the gorgeously carved river valleys and lush rainforests below.

Traveling on this route is a visual feast and a highlight for many travelers. The train ride’s slow pace provides plenty of opportunities to snap photos and appreciate nature’s spectacle. Plus, with informative commentary, you get context about the geography and history of the area. Just be aware that during peak seasons, trains can get crowded, so booking in advance is advisable.

Greymouth and Franz Josef: West Coast Wonders

Upon arrival in Greymouth, the group is transported down the West Coast, a region known for its rainforests, waterfalls, and rugged coastline. The drive offers sweeping vistas — plenty to look at before reaching Franz Josef, a tiny village famous for its glacier.

In Franz Josef, you’ll find plenty of things to do, from forest walks to glacier viewing. The reviews highlight that this area is a “must-see” for glacier lovers, and the proximity of the glacier to the rainforest is truly unique. As one reviewer noted, Franz Josef boasts large glaciers almost at sea level, which is rare worldwide. The scenery here is hauntingly beautiful, with snowy peaks towering above dense forest.

Glacier Adventures: Heli Hike Experience

One of the tour’s most talked-about activities is the Heli Hike on Franz Josef Glacier. You start with a scenic flight, which alone is memorable, flying over rugged terrain and landing on the glacier’s surface. Once on the ice, a guided hike of about 2.25 hours takes you through an otherworldly landscape of towering ice formations and blue crevasses.

While this experience is often described as exhilarating, it’s crucial to note that reviewers have raised concerns about check-in times. One traveler, HoiMing_W, experienced a miscommunication that caused them to miss their heli-hike. The lesson here is to double-check your timings and stay attentive to your itinerary.

Queenstown: The Adventure Capital

Leaving Franz Josef, the tour crosses the Haast Pass, the southernmost route through the Southern Alps, offering increasingly stunning vistas. Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and Lake Dunstan dot the landscape as you travel into Queenstown, often called the “adventure capital” of New Zealand.

Queenstown is a vibrant town with a lively atmosphere, surrounded by mountains and lakes. Although the tour offers free time here, you might find yourself wishing for longer, as there’s a lot to explore — from jet boating to bungee jumping, or just relaxing by the waterfront. Many travelers mention that Queenstown’s scenery alone makes it worth a visit.

Milford Sound: A Cruise to Remember

The day of the Milford Sound cruise is arguably the tour’s pièce de résistance. You’ll travel from Queenstown to Te Anau, then along the spectacular Milford Road, renowned for waterfalls, rainforests, and dramatic mountain vistas. The coach ride itself is scenic, with frequent stops for photos and short walks.

Once at Milford Sound, you’ll board a luxury cruise with a glass roof, giving unobstructed views of waterfalls plunging into the fiord, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. The onboard commentary helps you identify features and appreciate the geology of this UNESCO World Heritage site. This cruise typically lasts several hours, providing ample opportunity to soak in the scenery and take photos.

Continuing to Mount Cook and Christchurch

On your final day, the journey heads back toward Christchurch via Mount Cook Village, stopping for lunch at the Hermitage Hotel. The mountain views here are awe-inspiring, with Aoraki / Mount Cook standing tall as New Zealand’s highest peak.

After lunch, the tour continues past Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, famous for the Church of the Good Shepherd. The scenic drive concludes with a return to Christchurch, passing through the Canterbury Plains.

Analyzing the Tour’s Value

At over $3,000 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it packs in a lot of iconic sights and activities. The inclusion of unique experiences like the TranzAlpine train and the Milford Sound cruise adds significant value, especially for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of DIY planning.

The guided commentary on coaches and during the cruise enriches your understanding of the landscape, turning sightseeing into an educational experience. Accommodation is arranged in well-located towns, providing a comfortable base to explore glaciers and local villages.

However, some reviews point out issues with communication — notably, the check-in time for the heli-hike was misreported, causing disappointment for one traveler. It’s a reminder that, even with all the planning, travelers should stay vigilant with timings and confirm details beforehand.

What You Can Expect From the Transportation

Transportation is a mix of modern coaches and the scenic TranzAlpine train, both of which are comfortable and designed for scenic viewing. The train journey is particularly memorable, offering large panoramic windows and narration, making it a highlight for most. The coach allows for flexible stops and a relaxed pace during long drives.

Free Time and Optional Activities

While the tour covers major sights, it also allows for independent exploration. In Franz Josef, you can walk around or consider optional glacier hikes if you’re feeling adventurous. Queenstown’s free time is ideal for trying additional activities — though these aren’t included in the package and come at extra cost.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early for popular activities like the heli-hike, especially during peak seasons.
• Double-check timings and confirm all bookings to avoid issues like the one reported.
• Bring layers — weather can change rapidly, especially around glaciers and mountains.
• Prepare for long days — the itinerary is packed, so comfortable footwear and snacks are recommended.
• Budget for extras — meals outside of the included lunch and optional activities can add up.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 5-day South Island circuit is perfect for travelers eager to see a wide array of South Island highlights without the stress of organizing logistics themselves. It’s especially suitable if you value scenic train rides, glacier adventures, and iconic fiord landscapes. Adventure seekers will appreciate the optional glacier hikes and Queenstown’s outdoor options, while nature lovers will enjoy the stunning vistas and wildlife.

It’s best for those who don’t mind a packed schedule and are comfortable with some flexibility around timing. If you’re seeking a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since reviews mention some miscommunication, be prepared to stay attentive and proactive.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a solid introduction to New Zealand’s South Island, combining must-see sights with memorable activities. The scenic train ride and Milford Sound cruise are particular highlights that justify the price for many travelers.

While some reviews point out the importance of clear communication and planning, the overall experience delivers on the promise of stunning landscapes and adventure. The accommodation and transport are comfortable, and the itinerary balances guided experiences with free time.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded South Island sampler that hits all the scenic highlights and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour provides good value. Just remember to stay attentive to your timings and be ready for some days of exploration.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed for groups up to 45 travelers, so solo travelers will find opportunities to mingle, especially with guided commentary and shared activities.

Are meals included in the tour?
Only lunch is included on the Milford Sound cruise and at Mount Cook. Other meals are not included, so you should plan to buy additional food during the trip.

How much free time is there during the tour?
You’ll have time to explore Franz Josef Glacier and Queenstown at your own pace, but the rest of the itinerary is quite scheduled, with guided activities filling much of each day.

What should I pack for this trip?
Layers are key — pack waterproof clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and sun protection. Given the outdoor activities and variable weather, versatile clothing is a must.

Is the train journey comfortable?
Yes, the TranzAlpine train features large panoramic windows and comfortable seating, making it a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery.

What happens if I miss an activity due to scheduling issues?
The tour provider recommends checking timings carefully and staying alert. In one review, a traveler missed the heli-hike due to miscommunication, so proactive planning is advised.

This 5-day South Island tour offers a compelling mix of scenery, adventure, and ease of travel for those eager to see New Zealand’s iconic landscapes without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. While it’s not without its hiccups, the highlights—especially the train ride and Milford Sound cruise—make it a worthwhile experience for most travelers seeking a memorable South Island adventure.