Small Group Southern Voyager 7 Days Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing New Zealand’s South Island but aren’t quite sure where to start or how to make the most of it, the Small Group Southern Voyager 7 Days Tour might just be worth considering. From what we’ve seen in reviews and the detailed itinerary, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of some of the most iconic spots, combined with a good dose of adventure and local charm. It’s clearly popular, with travelers booking about 54 days in advance, and it’s consistently rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 by those who’ve taken it.

What we really like about this experience? First, the expert guides seem to make a real difference—they’re praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Second, the stunning scenery is a major highlight, with stops at lakes, fjords, glaciers, and mountain vistas that seem almost unreal. One potential consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of travel each day—around 8 to 9 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days on the road.

This tour seems especially suited to adventurers, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after a lively, well-organized trip that balances sightseeing with authentic Kiwi hospitality, this could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Expert guides make the trip engaging and informative
• Stunning scenery covers lakes, glaciers, fjords, and mountain passes
• A good mix of adventure activities and relaxing moments
• Long travel days mean you should be comfortable on the bus
• Small group size fosters a friendly, intimate vibe
• Great for solo travelers or those who prefer guided tours

Discovering the Highlights of the South Island

When considering a week-long tour of New Zealand’s South Island, you want something that hits the high notes—beautiful landscapes, memorable activities, and local insights—and this tour seems to deliver just that. Let’s walk through what keeps this trip appealing, and where it might fall a little short.

Day 1: Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd

The journey begins at one of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks—the Church of the Good Shepherd on Lake Tekapo. This iconic, picture-perfect little church with its mountain backdrop is a great starting point, and it’s free to wander around. Travelers love this first stop—the reviews mention the “incredible first day” and the “stunning lakefront,” making it clear that Tekapo sets a memorable tone for the trip.

Afterward, you get about five hours to explore the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, bike the trails, or relax in the lakeside hot springs. This balance of activity and downtime lets you soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Many reviews highlight the beauty of Tekapo, with one traveler saying they’re planning to paint the view from photos they took themselves!

Day 2: Queenstown, the Adventure Capital

Queenstown is next on the list, and it’s easy to see why it’s called the adventure capital of New Zealand. The stop here is a mix of free time and optional activities—think skydiving, bungy jumping, or scenic walks—giving you a taste of the adrenaline here. Your guide will help you pick what suits your style.

The 8-hour day is a significant chunk but packed with potential for fun. The reviews repeatedly mention how well-organized the day is, with travelers appreciating the flexibility and the chance to do activities that excite them. Based on reviews, many find Queenstown to be the highlight—the scenery, the energy, and the options for adventure make it a must-see.

Day 3: Milford Sound Cruise

No trip to the South Island is complete without visiting Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise through the fiord is often described as awe-inspiring, with waterfalls, ancient forests, and mountain cliffs creating a landscape that’s both grand and intimate. Expect to see dolphins and other wildlife, which adds to the magic of this experience.

This 8-hour day is a full immersion into nature’s grandeur, and reviews highlight how spectacular the scenery is. One traveler called Milford Sound “larger-than-life,” emphasizing just how impactful this stop is. The cruise allows for a relaxing, scenic break from the bus, and most agree it’s worth every minute.

Day 4: Queenstown Again—Adventures and Activities

Back in Queenstown, this day is more flexible, giving you options to bungy jump, horse ride, or explore more of the town. The day can stretch to nine hours, offering you plenty of time to try a new activity or simply relax with a coffee overlooking the lake.

Reviewers often mention how well the day is managed, with guides helping to organize activities or suggest options. The energy here is lively, and many travelers find it a fun, varied day that captures the spirit of adventure that Queenstown is known for.

Days 5 & 6: Franz Josef Glacier

The journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef takes you through stunning West Coast scenery, with stops at Wanaka and the rugged coastline along Haast Pass. The landscape includes rainforests, waterfalls, and glaciers—truly a visual feast. Once at Franz Josef, you get to explore the glacier itself—hiking, helicopter rides, or both—depending on your preferences and physical fitness.

Guests rave about Franz Josef, often describing it as “the most beautiful place you’ll ever see.” The glacier area combines natural wonder with active options, and reviews mention how memorable the hikes and helicopter tours are. The 8-hour days here give plenty of time to appreciate the scenery and enjoy some adrenaline.

Day 7: Return to Christchurch via Hokitika and Arthurs Pass

The final day involves a scenic drive back to Christchurch, with a stop in Hokitika, known for its arts and crafts, and a drive through Arthurs Pass, offering snowy mountain vistas and alpine scenery. It’s a fitting end to a week of exploration, with the journey allowing you to reflect on the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on the reviews and itinerary, wild Kiwi Tours and their guides appear to be a significant part of the experience. Several travelers mention how knowledgeable and friendly their guides are—like Vendula, who received praise for her warmth, expertise, and even her dance moves! This personal touch seems to elevate the trip beyond just sightseeing.

The small group size (a maximum of 18 travelers) fosters a relaxed, friendly environment. Many reviewers talk about making friends and feeling like they’ve been traveling with a group of good friends by the end. This intimacy makes the trip feel less like a crowded tour and more like a shared adventure.

Value for Money

At just over $1,500 NZD, the tour includes most major sights and activities, plus accommodations and some meals. Travelers note that the trip offers excellent value, especially considering the extensive travel, guided insights, and memorable experiences packed into just a week. However, it’s worth noting that extras like additional activities or private room upgrades come at extra costs.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration? The long days in transit—up to nine hours—might be tiring for some. Also, the tour is non-refundable, so if your plans change, you won’t be able to get your money back. For travelers who prefer more flexibility or a slower pace, this might feel a bit hectic.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for adventurous souls, whether solo travelers, couples, or small groups, who enjoy guided trips and want a comprehensive tour of the South Island without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with long days on the road and want a mix of sightseeing, activities, and relaxation.

If you’re someone who loves stunning scenery, wildlife, and active experiences like glacier hikes or Milford Sound cruises, this trip hits all those marks. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or traveling with kids, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Small Group Southern Voyager 7 Days Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore New Zealand’s South Island. With fantastic guides, breathtaking scenery, and a good mix of adventure and relaxation, it appeals to those who want to see the highlights without the stress of logistics. The small group setting fosters genuine connections, making it a great choice for solo travelers and friends alike.

Given the high praise from past travelers and the carefully curated itinerary, this tour provides solid value and an authentic Kiwi experience. You’ll visit some of the most famous sights, enjoy exciting activities, and be looked after by knowledgeable guides who know how to make each day special.

If you’re eager to tick off major sights like Milford Sound and Franz Josef, love scenic drives, and want to share the experience with a friendly group, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling welcomed and making friends quickly. The small group size helps create a friendly environment.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves long days—up to 9 hours—so you should be comfortable with some walking and sitting for extended periods. Moderate fitness is recommended.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included (6 in total), and dinner is provided, but extra meals or snacks are not part of the package. You might find opportunities to explore local eateries at your own expense.

Can I customize activities?
The tour offers some flexibility, especially in Queenstown, with optional adventures available. However, additional activities like Hobbiton or skydiving cost extra and aren’t included.

What’s the accommodation like?
Stays are in hostels, which tend to be comfortable and functional. If you prefer private rooms, there’s an extra charge of NZ$150 per night.

Is the trip good value for money?
Most travelers say yes, considering the number of destinations, activities, and guide service included. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the South Island without the hassle of self-driving.

What happens if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable and can’t be changed once confirmed, so plan accordingly.

Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements are individual; you’ll need to arrange any necessary visas independently before your trip.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated, lively experience of New Zealand’s South Island. If you’re after a memorable, guided adventure with plenty of stunning scenery and friendly faces, it might just be the trip you’re looking for.