The 12 Top Hiking And Trekking Tours In Te Anau: Which Is Best?

Te Anau is a gateway to some of New Zealand’s most stunning wilderness areas, making it a prime spot for Hiking and Trekking Tours. Its location serves as a launching pad for iconic walks like the Milford and Kepler Tracks, but it also offers a surprising variety of guided experiences that go beyond just walking. Whether you want a simple water taxi transfer or a full-day heli-hike, Te Anau’s landscape provides breathtaking scenery and memorable adventures. I personally love tours that combine a mix of flying, walking, and boat rides — like the Fiordland Heli-hike from Te Anau — for their ability to give a full taste of the region’s rugged beauty [].

While Te Anau’s natural appeal is obvious, the real strength of these tours is their variety — from quick water taxi transfers to full-day guided heli-hikes. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Fiordland’s rugged terrain, a short water taxi transfer or a half-day guided walk might be perfect. But if you’re looking for an adventure that combines scenic flights with in-depth hikes, Te Anau delivers. Below, you’ll find the best options, each with unique features, so you can pick the right fit for your trip.

1. Milford Track Multi-Night Hike – Water Taxi Transport

Rating: 5.0/5 (58 reviews)
Price: $152.04 per person
Duration: 50 minutes (approx.)
Location: Te Anau, New Zealand

Starting with perhaps New Zealand’s most famous multi-day walk, this Milford Track transfer simplifies your experience by providing a seamless water taxi ride from Te Anau Downs to the trailhead. This is perfect if you want to focus on the walk itself without stressing over logistics. The small-group transfer ensures you’ll meet fellow hikers and get a more personalized experience. Booking this transfer in advance saves you the hassle of navigating busy schedules and helps you start your adventure on the right foot.

What makes this stand out is its straightforward approach — just a quick 50-minute water taxi that gets you right to the start of your trek. Most hikers appreciate the calm, small-group atmosphere, making it easier to share stories and relax before hitting the trail. The $152.04 price offers good value considering the convenience and smooth start it provides.

Bottom Line: If your main goal is to hike the Milford Track with minimal fuss, this water taxi transfer offers a straightforward, hassle-free way to begin your adventure.

2. Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike

Rating: 5.0/5 (28 reviews)
Price: $474.74 per person
Duration: 7 hours (approx.)

The Kepler Track is iconic for its alpine scenery, and this full-day guided heli-hike takes it to the next level. You’ll start with a helicopter ride to Mount Luxmore, giving you incredible panoramic views of the mountains, lake, and forests. From there, you’ll descend on a well-marked hiking trail that includes the Luxmore Hut, with time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

This tour’s uniqueness lies in the helicopter flight — flying over Fiordland’s rugged peaks adds a luxury touch to the rugged landscape. The guide, who shares insights about the ecology and conservation efforts, makes the experience educational as well. The tour is limited to 12 people, ensuring a personal touch. It’s perfect for adventurous explorers comfortable with around 7 hours of moderate hiking and a bit of altitude.

Guests say: “Great views and a seamless combination of flight and walk,” making this a fantastic choice for those wanting more than just a walk.

Bottom Line: For a blend of scenic flight, guided hiking, and expert commentary, this heli-hike is a premium experience that’s well worth its price for adventure lovers.

3. Fiordland Heli-hike from Te Anau

Rating: 5.0/5 (19 reviews)
Price: $286.37 per person
Duration: 3 to 6 hours (approx.)

This heli-hike packs in three adventures, including a helicopter ride over Lake Te Anau, a hike on the Kepler Great Walk, and a scenic descent to return to town. It’s a true speed tour of Fiordland’s most dramatic scenery — flying over Hidden Lakes, the Main Divide, and Kepler Mountains before landing at Luxmore Hut for a hike that offers spectacular views from Luxmore Summit.

What makes this tour unique is its flexibility — starting with a scenic helicopter flight, then descending on a hiking trail, and returning via boat. The admission fees are included, and the combination of flying and walking gives a multi-dimensional experience. It’s suited for those who want a taste of everything Fiordland has to offer in a single day.

Guests describe it as “great communication, great pilot, and stunning views,” with the helicopter adding a real wow factor.

Bottom Line: If you want an action-packed day that combines flying, hiking, and boating, this heli-hike is a convenient, exhilarating choice.

4. From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike

Rating: 5/5 (7 reviews)

This guided full-day heli-hike starts with a scenic helicopter flight to Mount Luxmore, followed by about 5 hours of hiking along the Kepler Track. The guides are local experts who share insights about the flora and fauna of Fiordland. Lunch is included, with options to hike up Mt. Luxmore or take an easier descent. The journey concludes with a water taxi across Lake Te Anau, giving a full immersion in the region’s natural beauty.

This tour’s strength is its comprehensive approach — combining flight, guided walk, and boat ride in one seamless experience. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a well-rounded day with a mix of adventure and relaxation. The $483.43 cost reflects its all-inclusive nature, including lunch and transport.

Guests say: “The views on the track were breathtaking,” and reviewers praise the professional guides and flexible options.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a full-day, guided, multi-transport experience with expert narration and scenic diversity.

5. Scenic Helicopter & Kepler Guided Hike from Te Anau with Lunch

Rating: 5.0/5 (3 reviews)

This small-group adventure combines a scenic helicopter flight with a guided hike on the Kepler Track. You can hike to Mt. Luxmore or take an easier route, with the choice made on the day. Included are morning tea and lunch, which add a nice touch for fueling the day’s activities. The tour emphasizes personalized attention thanks to the limited group size — just a handful of travelers.

The $483.43 price makes it a premium option, but many find the combination of flight, food, and guided walk worth every penny. The tour is ideal for active travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience.

Guests mention “super knowledgeable guide” and “breathtaking views,” making this a top pick for those who love a tailored experience.

Bottom Line: If you want a day that combines flying, hiking, and great food in a small-group setting, this tour offers a balanced, memorable adventure.

6. Te Anau Jetboat Experience, Kepler Guided Hike, Transport & Lunch

Rating: 5.0/5 (3 reviews)

This tour offers an exciting jet boat ride on the Waiau River, famous for its appearance in the “Lord of the Rings,” followed by a guided Kepler Track walk. Starting at Te Anau, the jet boat zips downstream, giving you a mix of thrill and scenery, before disembarking for a guided hike. It’s a perfect combination for those wanting adrenaline and wilderness in one day.

The $266.23 cost includes transport, a guided walk, and lunch. Reviewers loved the “exciting jet boat ride” and the chance to see movie locations. The tour is ideal for active travelers who prefer a mix of quick thrills and nature.

Bottom Line: For a fun, fast-paced day with the added bonus of movie history and beautiful landscapes, this combo is tough to beat.

7. Lake Marian Guided Hike with Transfers, Lunch & Morning Tea

Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)

This full-day guided hike to Lake Marian takes you along the Milford Road to one of Fiordland’s most scenic lakes. The walk begins with waterfalls and lush forests, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The drive itself offers sweeping views of Fiordland National Park. The tour includes lunch and morning tea, making it a leisurely yet active day.

The $192.38 price makes this one of the more affordable guided options, with reviews highlighting the “beautiful hike” and “scenic views.” It’s suited for travelers who want a manageable walk that still offers stunning scenery.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for those seeking a well-paced, scenic day with comfortable logistics and great value.

8. Routeburn Guided Day Hike from Te Anau with Lunch & Transport

Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)

This half-day guided hike along the famous Routeburn Track** focuses on Key Summit, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Fiordland. Limited to 12 participants, it includes transportation and lunch, making for a relaxed yet scenic outing. The track offers views of mountains, valleys, and lakes, with options for additional viewpoints if the weather cooperates.

Guests appreciate the “beautiful panoramic views” and the small-group atmosphere, which allows for more personalized attention from the guide. The $192.38 price is reasonable for the quality and scenery.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those short on time but wanting a taste of Fiordland’s legendary vistas with expert guiding.

9. Te Anau: Jet Boat Ride & Kepler Track Guided Hike

Rating: /5 (reviews unknown)

This combination tour offers a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waiau River, with a guided walk along the Kepler Track. Starting with the boat ride early in the day, you get views of the landscape used in “Lord of the Rings,” then enjoy a guided hike. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of adrenaline and walking in one day.

A relaxed pace and the scenic boat ride make this suitable for families or those who enjoy varied experiences within a single trip.

Bottom Line: For a dynamic day packed with adventure and scenic highlights, this combo gives you a taste of Fiordland’s wild side.

10. Te Anau: Kepler Heli Hike (Unguided)

Rating: /5 (reviews unknown)

This unguided heli-hike offers a shorter, flexible adventure. You’ll fly over Lake Te Anau to Luxmore Hut, then hike down the final stretch of the Kepler Track. It’s designed for independent travelers who want to combine flight and walk but prefer to go without a guide. The minimum duration is about 4 hours.

The highlight is the alpine landing at Luxmore Hut and the opportunity to enjoy Fiordland’s wilderness safely and comfortably. It’s ideal for experienced hikers or those who want a self-directed experience with scenic flights.

Bottom Line: For independent travelers looking for a flexible, scenic heli-hike, this is a practical and enjoyable option.

11. Te Anau: Kepler Track Helicopter Hike with Boat Ride

Rating: /5 (reviews unknown)

This premium experience features two helicopter landings at Mount Maury and Luxmore Hut, guided hiking with a local expert, and a boat cruise across Lake Te Anau. It offers a comprehensive mix of air, land, and water, giving multiple perspectives of Fiordland’s stunning landscapes. The guided hike is enriched by insights into the region’s ecology and history, and the scenic boat ride caps off the day.

The tour is perfect for those wanting an in-depth, luxurious experience with multiple viewpoints and transport modes.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a top-tier, multi-faceted adventure combining heli, hike, and boat, this tour provides maximum variety and comfort.

12. Lake Marian Guided Day Hike with Lunch

Rating: /5 (reviews unknown)

This guided full-day walk to Lake Marian features a scenic drive along Milford Road, waterfalls, and lush forest trails. The walk to the lake itself is rewarding, with opportunities to explore the lake’s southern shore and enjoy a packed lunch. The route includes stops at Fiordland National Park and is suitable for those wanting a manageable but stunning day in nature.

The $192.38 price is reasonable, with positive comments on the “beautiful hike” and “scenic views.” It’s well-suited for travelers who want a guided experience with comfortable logistics.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a scenic, well-organized day that emphasizes natural beauty without requiring an intense hike.

How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Te Anau

Picking the best tour depends on your fitness level, time, budget, and interests. For a quick and scenic start, the water taxi transfer to Milford offers a simple, efficient way to get into the famous track. If you crave a full-day adventure with flying and hiking, the full-day heli-hike or heli-hike with lunch deliver exceptional scenery and a sense of adventure.

Those interested in a mix of adrenaline and scenery should consider the jet boat plus Kepler guided hike, while independent travelers might prefer the unguided heli-hike for flexibility. Budget travelers can opt for the Lake Marian guided hike with transfers, which still offers stunning scenery at a more affordable price. Remember, booking early is wise, especially during peak season, as these tours fill quickly.

Final Thoughts

Te Anau’s wide range of hiking and trekking options ensures there’s something for all — whether you’re after a quick scenic jaunt or a full-day adventure combining flying, boat rides, and guided walks. For pure scenery and convenience, the Milford Track water taxi transfer is hard to beat, while the guided heli-hike offers a luxurious, breath-taking experience. If you want an adrenaline rush, the jet boat combined with guided hike is perfect.

Whatever your style, booking early guarantees your spot on these popular tours. Take a good look at your physical condition, your timeframe, and your budget, then choose a tour that makes your Te Anau visit unforgettable. With so many incredible options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to enjoy Fiordland’s awe-inspiring landscapes.