5-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch

Exploring New Zealand’s South Island in just five days sounds ambitious—and it is. This tour from Christchurch promises to check off the most iconic sights in a well-organized package, making it a practical option for those wanting an overview without the hassle of planning each step. We’ve looked at the reviews, itinerary, and what’s included to see if this experience could be your perfect Kiwi escape.

What we love about this tour? First, the comfortable transportation makes long distances manageable. Second, the expert local guides make the scenery come alive with insights and stories. Third, the stunning variety of landscapes—from glaciers to lakes to mountain passes—keeps the journey fascinating. One thing to consider, however, is the long days on the road, which might feel tiring for some travelers. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive snapshot of the South Island’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or extensive research.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience covers transport, accommodation, and key activities like Milford Sound cruises.
• Small group sizes mean more personalized attention and more room to enjoy the scenery.
• Scenic train rides like the TranzAlpine are highlights, offering breathtaking views and comfort.
• Diverse landscapes from glaciers to rainforests, ensuring a variety of photo opportunities.
• Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with friendly, knowledgeable commentary.
• Long travel days are unavoidable but made easier with comfortable coaches and frequent stops.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Christchurch to Mt. Cook and Lake Tekapo

Your adventure begins with a pickup from centrally located Christchurch hotels, where you’ll hop into a spacious, air-conditioned coach. The first stretch of this journey takes you through the Canterbury Plains, a patchwork of farmland that offers gentle scenery before the mountains come into view.

The first major stop is Burkes Pass, a mountain pass that provides sweeping views and a chance to stretch your legs. From there, you’ll descend into the MacKenzie Country, famous for its dramatic landscapes and, of course, the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Reviewer Paula called this part “absolutely stunning,” highlighting how the vivid blue waters and the charming church make perfect photo subjects.

Next, the trip continues along the western side of Lake Pukaki, where Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, dominates the skyline. Here, you’ll have the option to grab lunch (at your own expense) while soaking in the views. Cross the Lindis Pass to leave the semi-arid Mackenzie Basin behind, entering the scenic realm of the Southern Alps. The day ends in Queenstown, where you’ll have free time to explore or relax.

Day 2: Milford Sound Cruise and Fiordland National Park

This is often the pinnacle of the tour for many travelers. Starting early, you’ll travel along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, passing the rugged Remarkables mountain range, which features prominently in many travel photos. The drive through the Eglinton Valley introduces you to the lush, ancient beech forests and waterfalls that decorate the landscape.

Following stops at Mirror Lakes for classic reflections and Christie Falls, you’ll enter the Homer Tunnel—a feat of engineering carved through the mountain. On the other side lies Milford Sound, a place that truly earns its reputation.

Once there, a cruise on Milford Sound awaits. Passengers often marvel at Mitre Peak, rising sharply from the water, and the glacier-carved walls that ascend over 1200 meters. One reviewer noted, “the boat got right up to waterfalls and waterfalls, perfect for photos.” The cruise is included in the tour, and optional onboard lunches are available if you want to indulge during the trip.

Day 3: Free Day in Queenstown

The third day is yours to enjoy Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Many use this time for optional activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, or simply strolling around the picturesque lakeside town. Reviewers often mention the charm and vibrancy of Queenstown—a lively hub with excellent cafes, shops, and views.

One guest described this day as “a well-earned break,” appreciating the opportunity to relax after two busy days of travel. It’s a good moment to explore at your own pace, take scenic photos, or indulge in a local wine tour.

Day 4: West Coast and Franz Josef Glacier

Leaving Queenstown behind, the journey continues along the Shore of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea—both offering postcard-perfect landscapes. The route through the Haast Pass is frequently called the most spectacular stretch of highway in New Zealand, with towering peaks, native forests, and rushing rivers.

The drive then takes you into Westland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll pass through rainforests and encounter the Franz Josef Glacier, an 11-kilometer-long wonder that’s over 7,000 years old. Reviewers mention that the glacier is impressive but note that weather can impact visibility; fog or mist sometimes obscure views, especially if visiting later in the day. One guest shared, “The glacier was atmospheric, but it was a bit disappointing that the view was obscured by fog.”

Day 5: Hokitika, Greymouth, and the TranzAlpine Train

Your last day starts with a visit to Hokitika, renowned for its greenstone (pounamu). This small town is perfect for a quick walk and some last-minute souvenirs. Then, a short drive to Greymouth introduces you to historic gold rush sites and the region’s famous greenstone jewelry.

The highlight of the final day is the TranzAlpine train journey. Traveling from Greymouth back to Christchurch, this route is celebrated as “one of the world’s top 10 train journeys.” You’ll cross Arthur’s Pass, passing through rugged mountains, rainforests, and river gorges, all while enjoying commentary that adds context to the scenery. Several reviewers, including Robert, praise the scenic train ride as “well worth the trip,” noting the comfortable coaches and stunning views.

Finally, the coach will transfer you back to Christchurch, completing your whirlwind tour of the South Island.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This 5-day package combines a carefully curated itinerary with all major highlights, meaning you won’t waste time figuring out logistics or waiting in line. The hotel accommodations are generally rated highly; guests often mention the “superb” quality of stays, especially in Queenstown and Franz Josef.

The cruise on Milford Sound and the TranzAlpine train are standout experiences included in the price, making this tour more than just a sightseeing checklist. For the cost of around $1,200 per person, you gain access to scenic transport, guided commentary, and hotel stays—a package that would be difficult to arrange independently without extra costs.

However, keep in mind the long travel days—some reviews mention 12-hour bus rides—so this isn’t for everyone. Yet, the coaches are praised for their comfort, and frequent stops help break up the journey. Also, the small group size (up to 20 travelers) tends to create a more intimate atmosphere, and guides often receive praise for friendliness and knowledge.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you want a well-organized snapshot of South Island’s most famous sights, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want to see glaciers, fiords, mountains, and lakes without the stress of planning each detail. The included activities, like Milford Sound cruises and scenic train rides, are perfect for those who value convenience and expert commentary.

That said, travelers who prefer more flexibility, less time on the bus, or a slower pace might find the schedule a bit relentless. The tour’s strength lies in its ability to maximize sightseeing in a short window, making it perfect for adventurous travelers eager to tick off the major highlights without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults. The tour is generally accessible for most ages, but be prepared for long days on the bus.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specified. You may want to budget for meals, especially at places like Mt. Cook and Milford Sound.

What kind of transport is used?
The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for all transportation, with different drivers and coaches each day, offering a fresh perspective and commentary.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days can be up to 12 hours, covering a lot of ground. Frequent stops help break up the journey, but it’s still a long day for some travelers.

Can I customize or extend my stay?
This is an independent tour, so it doesn’t include customizations. However, you can book additional nights in Christchurch or Queenstown separately.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather can impact certain sights, especially Franz Josef Glacier and the Milford Sound cruise. While the itinerary can’t be changed, guides typically adapt plans and provide alternative viewpoints if possible.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers can book a single room option and will join a small group. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly guides and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked around 66 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates and availability.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than that are subject to a partial or no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day South Island tour from Christchurch offers an efficient, well-organized way to see some of New Zealand’s most famous sights. From the towering peaks of Mt. Cook to the glacial wonder of Franz Josef and the dramatic fiords of Milford Sound, it packs a diverse array of landscapes into a manageable schedule. The inclusion of scenic train rides and comfortable accommodations makes it a good value, especially for those new to New Zealand or with limited time.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided experience with minimal hassle and are happy to spend long hours on the road to maximize sightseeing. The reviews reflect a generally high satisfaction level, especially praising guides, scenery, and overall organization—though some mention the long travel days and weather-dependent experiences.

If you’re after a rundown of South Island’s highlights with a touch of adventure, this tour could be a great choice. Just be sure to pack patience for those long drives and come prepared for unpredictable weather.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those who value convenience, scenic variety, and guided insights over a slower, more flexible pace. It’s a fantastic way to see the highlights in a short time, making it ideal for first-timers or travelers with busy schedules seeking a well-rounded, memorable South Island experience.