Fiordland Guided Walks
Fiordland Great Walk 3-Day Package
Fiordland Great Walk 3-Day Package
This is our ultimate hiking package, featuring three days of fully guided Great Walk experiences on the best sections of the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks. Based in Te Anau each night, you’ll explore Fiordland’s diverse landscapes – from native forests and rivers to alpine views and vast fiords – all with the support of our knowledgeable local guides who bring the region to life.
New for summer 2025, you can now choose between two fantastic Kepler Track experiences: the alpine Kepler Heli Hike or the more accessible Kepler Jetboat and Hike. Both offer a memorable journey through Fiordland’s iconic landscapes, rounding out this ultimate hiking package with a Kepler adventure to suit your style.
- 3-6hrs each day
- Variable
- Moderate-Hard
- 3 days
Fiordland Great Walk Package - Kepler Heli Hike option
- Adult NZ$1595
- Child NZ$1495
Fiordland Great Walk Package - Kepler Jetboat Option
- Adult NZ$1275
- Child NZ$995
Fiordland Great Walk Package - 4 nights STANDARD hotel room
- Single person from NZ$2835
Fiordland Great Walk Package - 4 nights LAKEVIEW hotel room
- Single person from NZ$3420
Day 1 Briefing and Kepler Guided walk
Your Great Walk Package begins with a pre-trip briefing, where we cover the three-day itinerary, check gear, and ensure you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead. It’s also a great chance to meet your guide and fellow walkers. Any extra gear you might need – like rain jackets or walking poles – is available to borrow at no extra cost.
If you've chosen our accommodation package, you'll check in the day before the walk begins. On the morning of your first hiking day, our team will meet you and get your guided experience underway.
Option 1: Kepler Track Guided Heli-hike
Take to the skies for an unforgettable Kepler adventure. Your day begins with a breathtaking 7-minute helicopter flight over Lake Te Anau, landing beside Luxmore Hut high on the Kepler Track. From here, you'll hike into the alpine zone, where a steady climb reveals sweeping views across Fiordland’s dramatic mountain landscapes. While this is a more challenging walk, there’s plenty of time to soak up the scenery and capture memorable moments. After lunch at the hut, descend through beautiful silver beech forest, rich with moss, orchids, fungi, and ferns. Your hike ends at the sandy shores of Brod Bay, where a water taxi returns you to Te Anau.
Option 2: Kepler Track Guided Jet-boat and Hike
Experience the Kepler Track from a new perspective with this immersive day of jet boating and hiking. Begin with an exciting jet boat ride down the Waiau River – famously featured in The Lord of the Rings – before cruising across the tranquil waters of Lake Manapouri, framed by ancient beech forest and sandy coves. Then enjoy a relaxed 3-hour guided walk on a scenic section of the Kepler Track. This gentler option follows a mostly flat, well-formed trail through native bush, wetlands, and beaches, including a swing bridge crossing. With stories and insights from your knowledgeable guide, it’s a fantastic way to discover the beauty of Fiordland by land and water.
Day 2 Milford Track guided walk and boat cruise
Start your day early with a scenic journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound – a spectacular drive in its own right – before setting out on a guided walk to Giant Gate Waterfall on the world-renowned Milford Track.
From Milford Sound, a short boat ride takes you across to Sandfly Point, the starting point of your walk. The trail gently follows the cascading Arthur River through lush rainforest, leading to the impressive Giant Gate Falls – best viewed from the swing bridge that spans the river below. Along the way, your guide will point out native flora, ancient forest giants, vibrant mosses and ferns, and the unique birdlife that call this special environment home.
After the walk, your Milford Sound experience continues with a 2-hour small boat nature cruise. With both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, you’ll enjoy up-close views of sheer cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, glaciers, rainforest, and the majestic Mitre Peak – a truly unforgettable Fiordland experience.
Day 3 Routeburn Track, Key Summit Great Walk
Enjoy your final day with a scenic journey along the spectacular Milford Road, including time for short walks and photo stops at key viewpoints and natural highlights on the way to the main mountain divide.
The main event is a guided walk to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This stunning trail climbs through lush temperate rainforest before emerging into a unique alpine environment rich with specialised herbs and plant life. At the summit, take in breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine tarns, and glacier-carved valleys draped in native forest.
Lunch is enjoyed on the summit or by the peaceful shores of Lake Howden. Walking in a small group, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable landscape with insights and stories shared by your knowledgeable Trips & Tramps guide.
A perfect sampling of New Zealand's greatest walks
My grandson and I had a marvelous time on the 3 day trip and tramp on the Kepler, Milford and Routeburn Tracks. A perfect sampling of New Zealand’s greatest walks. Excellent guides who were both personable and highly knowledgeable. Also, very accessible pre trip for planning. The logistics were flawless. Magnificent views and sights. Highly recommend this company and this tour program.
4 of the best days walking we have ever experienced ...
We've just completed 4 of the best days walking we have ever experienced with Trips and Tramps (Kepler Track, Milford Track, Routeburn Track & Lake Marian). The service provided by Trips & Tramps was nothing short of exceptional from the initial enquiry back in Jan through to the service provided by the guides on the walks. The office team (Madeleine) were prompt and extremely helpful through the booking process and follow up emails with clear and accurate information provided. The guides during the walks (Andrew, Douglas, Michelle & Becs) were all experts in their fields and provided knowledgeable and interesting commentary during the walks. The walks whilst challenging, were worth every ache and sore muscle with views from the top of Mt Luxmore, Lake Marian and Earland Falls the highlights for us. We would highly recommend Trips and Tramps for anyone seeking a variety of walks in Fiordland.
We had a fabulous time doing the 3 tramps and it was way beyond our expectations.
We had a fabulous time doing the 3 tramps and it was way beyond our expectations. Thanks to Steve, Douglas, Taisei, Michelle and Geoff. Your passion for your tramping and your area of Fiordland is very obvious and we enjoyed learning so much from your knowledge.
Each tramp showed us something different and gave us a taste of the country that's for sure.
We are so glad to have booked with Trips and Tramps.
We thoroughly enjoyed all of our walks with you guys. Caitlin and Becs were well versed with loads of information about the tracks, the wildlife that we saw, the flora and fauna as well as just general things about New Zealand. They were incredibly friendly and made us feel at home with their hospitality. We enjoyed our conversations with them.They matched our pace and so none of the walks were taxing though we had an older adult with us. It feels like they went the extra mile to ensure that we were all having a good time. We particularly appreciated Becs for arranging our transport back on the second day as well as for being so flexible on our last day.
Thank you for our wonderful holiday.
"Thank you for our wonderful holiday. June and I LOVED the helicopter ride today and the walk down the Kepler was wonderful."
Outstanding Company!
“Outstanding Company!..They were prompt, well prepared, friendly and fully knowledgeable of the area.”
Tour guides were of a very high level!
Very professional. Beautiful sights, especially rock cliff structure at Milford sound. The force of nature is amazing. Tour guides were of a very high level. Could engage in adult conversation with them. 1st day was with Jeff and Jill and they greeted us with a handshake. Very professional and fantastic local knowledge. 2nd and 3rd day was with Doug who had fantastic knowledge on flora and bird life. I would encourage other families form Auckland to do this trip with Trips and Tramps as it is an eye opener with the beautiful scenery in Fiordland.
Lots of laughs and fun with friends
It was a great 3 day trip that we recently went on, organised by Jill.
Day one was the Kepler Track with guides Michelle and Taisei. Day two was the Milford Track with our guide Douglas and a 2hr boat cruise around Milford Sound. Day three we did the Key Summit walk on the Routeburn Track with Helen. Jill did an amazing job organizing all 3 days for Janine, Francis and I.
Jill explained the itinerary for each day very well. There was also packed lunches for each day which were delicious.
Thank you so much to all of our guides, as they explained to us about the trees, plants, birds and alot was said about each area that we walked. We are all lady’s from the South and had a lot of laughs.
What a fantastic 3 days on the Three Great Walks
My friend and I aren't the fastest walkers, we like to stop and view the scenery rather than fast track walking. The guides were amazing, very encouraging and totally allowing us to go at our own pace. Trips and Tramps was an exceptionally well organised tour. Prompt, all the back up one could need, great lunches provided.
I totally recommend to anyone thinking they couldn't do a full track walk with too many climbs to try this 3 days on 3 great tracks. It was so wonderful.
Lots of laughs and fun with friends
It was a great 3 day trip that we recently went on, organised by Jill.
Day one was the Kepler Track with guides Michelle and Taisei. Day two was the Milford Track with our guide Douglas and a 2hr boat cruise around Milford Sound. Day three we did the Key Summit walk on the Routeburn Track with Helen. Jill did an amazing job organizing all 3 days for Janine, Francis and I.
Jill explained the itinerary for each day very well. There was also packed lunches for each day which were delicious.
Thank you so much to all of our guides, as they explained to us about the trees, plants, birds and alot was said about each area that we walked. We are all lady’s from the South and had a lot of laughs.
- Te Anau
- Divide
- Key Summit, Routeburn Track
- Luxmore Hut, Kepler Track
- Brod Bay
- Lake Te Anau
- Milford Sound
- Milford Track
- Giant Gate Water Fall, Milford Track
- Waiau River
- Lake Manapouri
- Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Departure Point, and transport logistics
This trip uses the township of Te Anau as the base. With a wide range of shops, accommodation providers and plenty of dining options, it is the perfect place to step into Fiordland National Park.
Most people find it easiest to fly into Queenstown. From there it is a 2-hour drive via State Highway 94 to reach Te Anau. From Queenstown you can rent a vehicle or catch the Tracknet bus. Tracknet have 3 departures daily, see www.tracknet.net for more details.
It is also possible to access Te Anau via Invercargill or Dunedin, however you would need a car to get to Te Anau from these places. Once you are in Te Anau we will pick you up each day from your accommodation (if it is within the town boundaries, or on the Milford Highway), this includes private residences. Sorry we do not pick up from outside the township.
Accommodation
We recommend a minimum of 3 nights’ accommodation in Te Anau, but 4 nights is optimal. Te Anau has plenty of accommodation to suit every style and budget. Please note if you have chosen the walking package only, your accommodation, dinner and breakfast is not included in the cost and needs to be arranged separately (see Destination Fiordland for suggestions).
Accommodation and walking packages are available in conjunction with the Distinction Hotel. These include 4 nights' accommodation and breakfast daily. Dinner is the only meal not included.
Weather
Fiordland is in a wilderness environment, and adverse weather conditions can increase the walk difficulty, so you need to be prepared.
The weather in Fiordland in general, can be unpredictable and change dramatically, very quickly; the proximity of towering mountains and the ocean makes for conditions and temperatures that can vary markedly during any day, plus we can get a lot of rain at times. Summer months average around 20°C but in the alpine areas it can still get very cold, with the combination of wind and rain. It is not unusual to experience 4 seasons in the one day!
Cancellations and Travel Insurance
We have a 7 day cancellation policy, please see our website for full details. If an accident occurs on the track, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) will cover the costs related to personal injury whilst in New Zealand, but not all associated costs. We highly recommend that all walkers have personal travel/medical insurance to cover any costs associated with injury, medical events and to guard against last minute cancellations.
More information
For all information on day schedules, pre-trip training, weather, safety, cancellations, travel insurance, and a gear checklist, check out our brochure here.
The Great Walks feature well-formed tracks, with steeper sections negotiated via steps or zigzags. This trip is suitable for most people aged 8+ who are comfortable walking 3–6 hours a day, including uphill and downhill sections. A good level of general fitness, including some hill walking experience, will help you get the most out of the experience.
The Kepler Heli-Hike is the most physically demanding day, with a steady alpine descent that can be tough on the knees and joints, especially for older walkers. If you’re concerned about this, we recommend choosing the Kepler Jet Boat and Hike option instead.
Although the tracks are well maintained, some sections are rocky and uneven. We suggest you’re confident walking for at least 4 hours on varied terrain to fully enjoy the trip. Your guide will adjust the pace and plan each day with the group’s fitness, the terrain, and weather conditions in mind.
We understand most people experience aches and pains from time to time, and this trip can occasionally aggravate those. We can accommodate many medical conditions, but it's important to inform your guide of any relevant issues before the trip begins.
Please note:
Our scheduled group package is not suitable for guests with the following conditions, although we may be able to accommodate these needs on a private tour — please enquire with us directly:
- Progressive physical or neurological conditions affecting balance, cognition, or ability to follow instructions (e.g., dementia, MS, significant vision impairment).
- Recent surgery, serious knee or hip issues, or those who are significantly overweight.
- Moderate to severe heart conditions.
- Individuals wishing to push physical limits, go faster or further than the group, or those not interested in participating in a shared group experience.
If you're unsure whether this trip is right for you, we're happy to discuss your needs and recommend the most suitable option.
We have organised two package deals with the local Distinction Hotel, to make your Fiordland holiday hassle free. Of course you are welcome to book any other accommodation option in Te Anau too, but this must be arranged directly by you.
These package offerings combine your Fiordland Great Walks 3 day package with a 4 night stay, including full cooked breakfast(s) each morning prior to your Trips & Tramps morning pickup, leaving you fueled for your day of adventure ahead. FREE unlimited WiFi and complimentary off-street parking is also included.
Both options are conveniently located in the heart of the Te Anau township, so you can access the main street easily, and no vehicle is required.
The only meal not included in the package cost is your evening dinner. These may be purchased at an additional charge from the hotel, or you can access a great array of options right outside the hotel doors!
DISTINCTION LUXMORE HOTEL - STANDARD ROOM
Standard hotel room at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel, centrally located in the heart of the main street.
- 1 person (single room) Heli Hike option NZ$2,835.00
- 2 people (twin/ double share room) Heli Hike Option NZ$4,595.00
- 1 person (single room) Jet Boat option NZ$2,545.00
- 2 people (twin/double share room) Jet Boat option NZ$4,045.00
DISTINCTION TE ANAU HOTEL - RUN OF HOUSE OR LAKEVIEW ROOM
Upgrade your accommodation and base yourself in a Lakeview or Run of House Room at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel. Surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this 4 star hotel offer an elegant option for your time on the hiking package.
Enjoy the elegant surroundings at the Distinction Te Anau hotel in a Lakeveiw Hotel Room.
- 1 person (single room) Heli Hike option NZ$3,420.00
- 2 people (twin/ double share room) Heli Hike Option NZ$5,195.00
- 1 person (single room) Jet Boat option NZ$3,095.00
- 2 people (twin/double share room) Jet Boat option NZ$4,575.00
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