New Zealand: The South Island ​

“The great outdoors” doesn’t quite do justice to New Zealand’s stunning beauty.

As we cycle past soaring snow-capped peaks and through primeval rainforests, hike along an ancient glacier inching down an alpine slope, and ride the TranzAlpine Express through breathtaking vistas … you’ll feel moved to call this island-nation “inspiring.” And when you receive the warmest of welcomes from local kiwis – during an enlightening homestay and a visit to a wilderness lodge on unspoiled Lake Moeraki – you’ll realize what countless Kiwis already know: New Zealand’s beauty is nothing short of epic. Join our one-of-a-kind itinerary to one of our favorite destinations!

What's Included

• Roundtrip international airfare
• 9 nights in comfortable lodgings
• 18 meals - 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners
• Transfers
• AND the option to add our Low-Cost Trip Extensions: Pre-trip: Sydney - 3 nights for only $795. Post-trip: Queenstown - 2 nights for only $245.
• FREE use of our custom VBT bicycle and helmet
• Service of two or three VBT Trip Leaders
• FULL VAN SUPPORT
• Daily route directions and maps
• Welcome reception
• Sightseeing and cultural activities
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit to use on your next VBT vacation
• Special Good Buy discount

Discovery Highlights

• Experience a memorable homestay with our welcoming Kiwi hosts
• Explore the beauty of mountain-ringed Queenstown
• Observe modernity mingled with vestiges of ancient Maori tradition
• Learn about gold and explore some of the West Coast's historic gold mines and gold rush towns
• Cycle along the picturesque Tasman Sea
• Ride the rails on a TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps
• Taste some of New Zealand's best wines from the Central Otago Vineyards
• Spend two nights at a wilderness lodge, surrounded by a thriving 1,000 year-old rainforest and pristine coastline

What to Expect