Fiordland Guided Walks

Routeburn Track Guided Walk

Hiking on Key Summit with your local guide, Routeburn Track, Fiordland

Hiking through dramatic alpine scenery

Embark on a guided day hike from Te Anau to Key Summit along the famed Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. As you ascend through lush forests and enter a distinctive alpine herb field, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of majestic mountains, glistening alpine lakes, and lush valleys below. This guided experience promises an unforgettable day in the heart of the South Island's main mountain divide.

3-5hrs
7-10km
400m
Moderate
8hr trip

Scheduled group hike

Adult ^NZ$280
Child ^NZ$230

Private Guided Hike

1-3 people from ^NZ$1155

A one-of-a-kind guided day walk

Your journey begins with a pick up in Te Anau, followed by a leisurely 1.5-hour drive with scenic and short hiking stops along the way to soak in the breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching the Divide Shelter, your hike commences through enchanting temperate rainforest on a well-maintained trail.

Led by one of our knowledgeable Trips & Tramps guides, this small-group experience offers an immersive exploration of the iconic Routeburn Track, a New Zealand Great Walk in the majestic Southern Alps mountain divide. As you ascend 400 meters (1300 feet), the lush forest gives way to a captivating alpine environment, revealing panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and verdant valleys below.

Enjoying the mountain views on Key Summit Routeburn Track

The Trip

Weather permitting, enjoy your lunch amidst the alpine tarns at the summit, or seek shelter at the lunch hut beside Lake Howden on less favorable days. Either way, this guided walk promises an unforgettable day. Your knowledgeable guide, well-versed in the area's natural and cultural history, will lead you along the trail, sharing fascinating insights along the way.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a day of rejuvenation in the midst of spectacular landscapes, Key Summit on the Routeburn Track promises an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Take time to capture the little things along the way

We had an awesome day!

We had an awesome day today walking the Routeburn Track with your guide Michelle who was absolutely delightful and her knowledge was fascinating. Weather was perfect which just added to our amazing day.

Jean and Mark

It was a wonderful experience to be on the Routeburn ...

It was a wonderful experience to be on the Routeburn Track with Douglas. His passion and knowledge of the area, plants, birds helped us to experience the natural beauty through his eyes. He was also able to point out where the new bridge was built to repair the washout. He was patient and informative. Wouldn’t hesitate to ask for him again of refer him to others.

Micki

Fabulous hike up to Key Summit

We had a fabulous hike up to Key Summit and then to the first hut and beyond. Renee was really great. She did a wonderful job of hosting us, showing us amazing sights, educating us, and taking very good care of us. She made a very special day even better. We certainly will recommend you to our friends who plan visits to New Zealand!

D. Owens

Enjoyable walk on the Routeburn Track

We really enjoyed our walk at the Routeburn track, even though it was raining during almost the whole trip. Our guide, Yvette, took very good care of us with the additional rain-wear she provided and the tips to keep us dry and warm. We also liked her stories during the trip and learned many new things about the region and New Zealand as a whole.

Tim, Belguim

A great group

A small group made for more personal experience. The guide had so much local historic and nature information.

Kaye R

Moderate workout in a breathtaking location with an excellent guide.

Moderate workout in a breathtaking location with an excellent guide. 8 miles +/- with ~1,500' elevation change including descent to the Lake Howden Hut. We had a comfortable pace with a knowledgeable guide. It was a stunning location.

Kermujian

One of the best walks ever

We had one of the best walks ever and I have done a lot of walks. Renee was great, you are lucky to have her.

Kevin B.

Divide
Earland Falls
Greenstone Valley
Howden Hut
Key Summit, Routeburn Track
Routeburn Track
Te Anau

TAKE A HIKE WITH A KNOWLEDGEABLE, LOCAL GUIDE

Enjoy a day walk with your own private guide on the stunning Routeburn Track. Hike at your own pace and discover the incredible alpine environment on your terms. With a private guide you will get exactly what you want out of the day.

Your guide will collect you from your Te Anau accommodation and transport you along the scenic Milford Road. Short scenic stops can be made as requested for photographs and to enjoy the dramatic landscape.

On the trail hike against a dramatic backdrop of Fiordland’s vast mountains and valleys and discover the unique native plants and birds. Your local, knowledgeable Trips & Tramps guide can answer all your questions, while sharing the best views and hidden wonders.

Immerse yourself in this spectacular environment for an unforgettable Great Walk experience. Let us take care of all the day’s logistics, including transport and lunch with a private excursion on the Routeburn Track.

1-3 people from^NZ$1,155

Book Private Experience

Meals

Add a picnic lunch or reusable water bottle to take with you (additional charge). If you have any dietary requirements for the lunch please let us know prior to the day so we can cater for these. Alternatively bring your own lunch, note there are no places to purchase food once we have left Te Anau. Refreshments and a light snack will be carried by your guide. A lunch is included on the private guided walk.

Schedule

8.30 am Te Anau accommodation pick up

10.00 -11.00 am Arrive Divide, Routeburn Car park

Walk on the Routeburn Track to Key Summit.

2.00 - 3.30 pm Return to Divide

4.30 pm Te Anau accommodation

Minimum number is 2 people for this guided walk to go ahead. If you are a single person please contact us for availability. Departures are available every other day. *This trip can be done year-round, but winter conditions with snow and cold temperatures should be expected from May to September.

What to bring

Comfortable walking boots/shoes, waterproof jacket, warm clothing including thermal hat and gloves, sunhat, lunch (if not pre-ordered or on a private hike), water bottle, day pack and insect repellent. Jeans and street wear are not suitable clothing, please ensure you wear suitable outdoor, activewear for the walks. Walking poles are optional, Trips & Tramps can provide these, just ask on the day. For safety reasons, clients may be declined service on the day if not suitably prepared.

We Provide

A professional hiking guide, all transport from Te Anau, safety gear, hot drinks and snacks.

Difficulty

A good level of fitness and walking ability is required due to the 400-metre/ 1300 ft ascent and descent. Track is wide and in short sections it is steeper and rocky underfoot. There are one or two places on the track with steep drop offs. The walk is 7-10 km/ 4.3-6 miles. Walking time 3 (minimum) to 5 hours. Not suitable for children under 8 years. On occasion, wet weather and cold conditions in the alpine area may make conditions more challenging. We operate in most weather conditions, so guests need to be suitably prepared.