6 Day South Island Circut: Milford Sound, Queenstown and Glaciers

Traveling through New Zealand’s South Island is a bucket-list experience, and this 6-day tour offers a comprehensive taste of its stunning landscapes without the stress of driving. From the remarkable fiords of Milford Sound to the rugged glaciers near Franz Josef, this journey combines scenic railways, boat cruises, and vibrant towns — all while providing flexible free time to explore at your own pace.

What we love about this package is the smooth mix of organized transfers and free time, the variety of transport modes that keep the trip lively, and the chance to see some of the South Island’s most breathtaking sights. However, keep in mind that some travelers have expressed frustration with the amount of time spent on buses and trains, and the independent nature of some parts of the trip might not suit everyone.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded adventure with stunning scenery, without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s best suited for those comfortable with group travel, appreciate scenic transport, and like to explore at their own pace during free days. Now, let’s walk through what makes this trip memorable — or, in some cases, a bit less perfect.

• All-inclusive transport makes exploring easier without self-driving worries.
• Balanced itinerary with scenic cruises, train rides, and free time.
• Variety of accommodations in 3- and 4-star hotels provide comfort and convenience.
• Guided commentary on coach journeys adds context to stunning landscapes.
• Authentic experiences like glowworm caves and glacier views enrich your trip.
• Potential for long bus/train days may require patience for some travelers.

Day 1: Christchurch to Dunedin via the Canterbury Plains

Starting early from Christchurch, this tour takes you across the vast Canterbury Plains, a region shaped by ancient glaciers. The highlight here is crossing New Zealand’s longest bridge at Rakaia, which offers impressive views of braided rivers—these waterways are born from mountain melt and provide incredible scenery.

Driving through towns like Timaru and the historic Oamaru, famed for its white stone architecture, you gain a first taste of the island’s diverse character. The final stop in Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture, sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Tip: The drive’s scenic beauty is best appreciated with the onboard commentary, which shares insights about the landscape and local history. According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and highlight hidden gems, making these long stretches more engaging.

Day 2: Te Anau and Glowworm Caves

The journey south passes through Southland farmland, with a notable stop in the salmon and trout fishing hub of Balclutha, famous for its impressive concrete arch bridge. From there, the scenery shifts to lush farmland and rural towns like Clinton and Gore, the “home of country music” and fly fishing.

The highlight is the Te Anau Glowworm Caves experience. A scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau takes you to the caves, where guided tours reveal limestone formations, underground waterfalls, and thousands of shimmering glowworms. The glowworm display is truly enchanting — a quiet, magical moment in the dark.

Review insight: One guest admired the caves’ “fantasy-like atmosphere,” noting the guides’ informative narration that enhanced the experience. The lake cruise itself, on the luxurious Luminosa, adds a layer of comfort and scenic beauty.

Day 3: Milford Sound Cruise from Queenstown

This is one of the tour’s standout days. You’ll hop aboard a luxury coach with a glass roof, allowing for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the dramatic landscape of the Milford Road. The drive features multiple photo stops and short walks, giving you time to soak in the scenery.

Arriving at Milford Sound, the cruise showcases towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rainforest-cloaked mountains. The extensive commentary from the onboard nature guide deepens your appreciation of the region’s ecological and geological marvels.

Real insight: A reviewer noted that the driver’s narration added interesting background to the scenery, and the cruise itself offers plenty of opportunities to spot waterfalls and wildlife. It’s a full day — roughly 12 hours — but packed with unforgettable sights.

Day 4: Queenstown – The Adventure Capital

Queenstown is the tour’s lively centerpiece. Known for its outdoor adventures and stunning setting, you’ll have a free day to explore. You can stroll the waterfront, browse local cafes, or relax with scenic views of Lake Wakatipu.

For panoramic vistas, the Skyline Queenstown Gondola is a must. The steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere whisks you up Cecil Peak, offering breathtaking views of the town, mountains, and lake. If adrenaline’s your thing, Queenstown’s world-famous activities, like jet boating or bungy jumping, are available for independent booking.

Review highlight: One traveler appreciated how the free day allowed them to discover hidden cafes and take their time, describing it as “a perfect mix of organized sightseeing and personal exploration.”

Day 5: Franz Josef Glacier and the West Coast

Departing Queenstown, the journey heads west through beautiful mountain scenery, crossing the Haast Pass into the wild West Coast. This remote region is known for its untouched rainforests, rugged coastlines, and powerful waterfalls.

Arriving in Franz Josef, you get the chance to view the glacier from a designated viewpoint. Glacier Shuttles organizes short transfer tours to show off the ice mass, with options for short walks or viewing platforms.

Insight: One review mentioned the glacier view as a “short but spectacular sight,” though some might want more time or options for glacier walks. The landscape here showcases nature’s raw power, with the glacier’s blue ice contrasting against lush greenery.

Day 6: From Franz Josef to Christchurch via Greymouth and the TranzAlpine

Your final day involves traveling up the West Coast, through small towns like Whataroa, Harihari, and Ross—famous for its historic gold rush—and Hokitika, known for arts, crafts, and beaches.

The highlight is the TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch. Often called one of the world’s great train journeys, it crosses the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, offering great views of beech forests, river valleys, and mountain peaks.

Review insight: One traveler admired the train ride, describing it as “beautiful and interesting,” with the scenery changing dramatically from rugged coastlines to alpine landscapes.

This tour’s main strength lies in its organized transportation, which means no stress about navigation or driving. The combination of coach, boat, and train rides offers a variety of perspectives on the landscapes, keeping the journey dynamic and engaging.

The five nights of accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels provide a comfortable base, with many reviewers noting their proximity to local sights and amenities. The inclusion of notable activities like the Milford Sound cruise, Skyline Gondola, and the TranzAlpine train make this a well-rounded experience.

Pricing at around $3,361.55 per person reflects the cost of multiple transport modes, quality accommodation, and key excursions. While slightly on the higher side, the value comes from the convenience and the chance to see major sights without organizing each detail yourself.

One potential drawback is the amount of time spent on buses and trains — some travelers, like Flynn, felt there were moments of uncertainty or long stretches with little activity. The independent nature of certain parts means you need to be comfortable with self-exploration or flexible schedules.

From glowing worms in the caves to up-close glacier views, this trip offers genuine moments of wonder. The guides’ commentary, especially during scenic drives and the Milford Sound cruise, adds depth that makes the scenery more meaningful.

Reviewers consistently mention knowledgeable guides and drivers, which enhances the experience. One noted that “drivers were knowledgeable and provided us with hidden gems,” showing that expert commentary can truly enrich sightseeing.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, multi-modal exploration of South Island’s highlights. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic train rides, boat cruises, and free days to customize your experience.

However, those seeking a very relaxed pace or more immersive glacier activities might find the long bus days a bit tiring. It’s also suited for those comfortable with group travel and independent exploration during free time.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to tick off iconic sights like Milford Sound, Queenstown, and Franz Josef without the hassle of self-driving, this tour offers great value. The combination of scenic transport, guided commentary, and free time strikes a good balance between structured sightseeing and personal adventure.

While it could be improved with shorter travel days or more glacier activities, the highlights and authentic experiences make this a memorable way to see the South Island’s diverse landscapes. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this journey packs in enough stunning scenery and unique moments to justify the investment.

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, this tour includes all road and railway transport, including coaches, scenic trains, and boat cruises, so you don’t need to self-drive.

Are accommodations included?
You’ll stay in 3- or 4-star hotels for five nights, providing comfortable bases with easy access to local sights and amenities.

What activities are part of this tour?
Highlights include the Milford Sound cruise, Queenstown Skyline Gondola, Glacier Valley Shuttle, and the TranzAlpine scenic train.

Can I explore on my own during free days?
Absolutely. The itinerary offers plenty of free time in Queenstown and other locations, allowing you to pursue optional activities or relax.

What should I consider if I dislike long bus or train rides?
Be aware that some days involve lengthy travel (up to 12 hours on Day 3 and 6 hours on Day 6). Prepare for a lot of scenic transportation, which can be tiring but also highly scenic.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, the group size is capped at 45, and most travelers can participate. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo adventurers comfortable with group travel and independent exploration.

To sum it up, this 6-day South Island circuit offers an accessible and exciting way to see some of New Zealand’s most famous sights. With scenic cruises, majestic mountains, and flexible free time, it’s a great choice for travelers who want a curated experience with a touch of adventure. Just remember to pack patience for the travel days and an eagerness to enjoy the natural beauty—these landscapes don’t disappoint.