Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef 2-Day Tour

Travelers looking to explore the highlights of New Zealand’s South Island without the hassle of planning every detail will find this Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef tour quite appealing. This two-day journey offers a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, charming towns, and scenic drives — all led by knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized small-group experience, the stunning photo stops like Lake Matheson and Wanaka Tree, and the opportunity to stay overnight in Franz Josef to soak in the glaciers up close. A slight consideration is the busy schedule with many stops — if you’re the type who prefers a more leisurely pace, some moments might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to see iconic sights without the stress of driving themselves, especially those who appreciate guided insights and authentic experiences. It’s ideal for adventure lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of New Zealand’s wild and beautiful landscapes in just two days.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized experience
• Expert guides enhance understanding of the region’s geology, culture, and history
• Excellent photo stops like Lake Matheson, Wanaka Tree, and Thunder Creek Falls
• Overnight in Franz Josef offers flexibility for your accommodation choices
• Diverse scenery from rainforests and waterfalls to glaciers and alpine lakes
• Value-packed itinerary combining highlights with authentic local stops

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Christchurch to Franz Josef via Scenic Stops

Starting in Christchurch, the journey kicks off with a pick-up that feels seamless, thanks to well-coordinated logistics. Once on the road, you’ll traverse the Canterbury Plains, a patchwork of farmland and mountain views that set the tone for the trip ahead. The guide will likely share stories about the region’s farming history and the landscape’s significance.

The first notable stop is Lake Lyndon, where the reflection of the surrounding mountains makes for a peaceful photo opportunity. Next, you’ll visit Castle Hill, a famous limestone quarry with striking rock formations, perfect for stretching your legs and snapping some shots of New Zealand’s rugged terrain.

Arthur’s Pass Village is another highlight, where a short walk to Devils Punchbowl, a waterfall plunging 131 meters, offers a stunning display of nature’s power. This walk is often tailored according to the group’s pace, as one reviewer noted, “the guide read the room and spent more time at the spots we liked,” which makes each experience a little more personal.

Arriving in Hokitika introduces you to a charming coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene and jade (pounamu) craftsmanship. Visitors can visit a local jade factory to learn about Māori traditions and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.

The afternoon continues along the breathtaking West Coast, where lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls create a lush backdrop for your drive. The highlight here is arriving in Franz Josef Village, where you’ll settle into your chosen accommodation. Several guests mention the advantage of having flexibility for their stay, as one reviewer noted, “We loved the choice of staying in Franz Josef to better experience the glaciers.”

Day 2: From Franz Josef to Queenstown with Scenic Highlights

The second day begins with a scenic drive through the Haast Pass, a route renowned for its dramatic landscapes of rainforests, rushing rivers, and towering peaks. This drive alone offers some of the most varied scenery on the island, making the journey just as exciting as the destinations.

A key stop is Lake Matheson, famous for its mirror-like surface reflecting Mount Cook and Mount Tasman — a photographers’ dream. Weather permitting, you’ll capture mirror images of the mountains against the lake’s calm surface, creating postcard-worthy shots.

Continuing south, you’ll visit Bruce Bay, Ships Creek, Thunder Creek Falls, and the mesmerizing Blue Pools — all quick stops designed for breathtaking photo opportunities and nature walks. Travelers have expressed appreciation for these moments, with one mentioning, “il secondo giorno, le soste ai laghi e alle cascate,” underscoring their beauty.

A quick stop in Wanaka provides a chance to photograph the ‘That Wanaka Tree,’ one of New Zealand’s most recognizable natural icons. The tree’s solitary stance in the lake makes for a unique photo and a peaceful break.

Before reaching Queenstown, you’ll pass through the historic Cardrona Valley, with a quick visit to the Cardrona Pub for a snapshot of the iconic mountain backdrop. The final leg brings you into Queenstown, the adventure capital where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, ready to explore.

Transportation, Group Size, and Value

The tour’s transportation is comfortable and well-coordinated, with convenient pickups and drop-offs. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more tailored stops and genuine conversations with guides. It’s noteworthy that guides like Hollie and Jonathan received praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, turning the trip into a more enriching experience.

Given the number of exclusive stops, scenic drives, and the flexibility of the overnight stay, the value is quite strong. The tour manages to pack in many iconic sights and hidden gems in just two days, which would be difficult to replicate on a self-drive without extensive planning.

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Accommodation in Franz Josef

While the tour doesn’t include overnight stays, it allows you to choose your own accommodation in Franz Josef, giving you control over comfort and budget. This flexibility is a plus, especially for those who prefer boutique lodges or budget options.

Food and Refreshment

While the tour doesn’t specify included meals, travelers have enjoyed local eateries in Hokitika and Franz Josef. One reviewer mentioned a “very good” local restaurant, highlighting the chance to savor regional cuisine after a day of exploration.

Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Bring comfortable shoes for walks, especially the Devils Punchbowl or Lake Matheson.
• Pack rain gear — New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, and rain is always a possibility.
• Charge your camera or phone early — the photo stops are too good to miss.
• Be flexible — guides often tailor stops based on group interests, leading to a more personalized day.
• Book accommodation early in Franz Josef, especially in peak seasons, to maximize your options.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Our review of customer feedback reveals that guides are genuinely appreciated, with many praising their knowledge, safety, and friendly demeanor. One reviewer loved how the guide “read the room,” allowing more time at preferred spots, which truly enhances the experience.

Several travelers also appreciated the delicious food and the opportunity to relax in charming local spots after busy sightseeing days, making the trip feel more like a curated adventure than just a sightseeing bus.

This 2-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers a comprehensive taste of South Island’s most striking landscapes. From glaciers and rainforests to iconic lakes and waterfalls, you’ll experience a beautifully curated journey that balances sightseeing with authentic local stops.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, flexible overnight options, and breathtaking scenery makes this tour a solid choice for those wanting a guided experience that’s both engaging and efficient.

While it’s packed with activities and stops, the attention to detail and personalized approach mean you’re not just ticking boxes — you’re genuinely soaking in the scenery and stories behind it.

If you want to see the best of South Island in a short timeframe, especially if you’re traveling with limited time or prefer guided comfort, this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

Is accommodation included in this tour?
No, accommodation in Franz Josef is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your own stay to suit your preferences.

What stops are on the second day?
The second day features stops at Lake Matheson, Bruce Bay, Ships Creek, Thunder Creek Falls, Blue Pools, and a quick photo in Wanaka.

Can I customize the stops or pace?
Guides are known for adjusting the stop durations based on the group’s preferences, making the experience more tailored.

Are meals included?
Meal details aren’t specified, but there are opportunities to dine at local eateries, especially in Hokitika and Franz Josef.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Children under 8 require a booster seat, which can be supplied for NZ$20, making it family-friendly for those with young kids.

What is the group size?
The tour emphasizes small group sizes for a more intimate experience, but the exact number isn’t specified.

How flexible are the pickup locations?
Pickups are offered from listed locations only; if your accommodation isn’t listed, you can meet at the nearest designated spot.

This tour balances well-planned stops with the freedom to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning scenery at your pace. For travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of self-driving, it’s a practical, engaging, and value-packed choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: