6 Day South Island Circut: Milford Sound, Queenstown and Glaciers

A 6-Day South Island Adventure: Milford Sound, Queenstown, and Glaciers

If you’re dreaming of exploring New Zealand’s wild, awe-inspiring South Island without the hassle of driving, this 6-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of guided transport, scenic railways, and free time to soak in the landscapes. From Christchurch, you’ll journey through dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and icy glaciers, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and a variety of transport modes—from luxury coaches to scenic trains.

What we love about this tour is how it combines relaxing travel with the sensation of discovering authentic spots—like Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier—without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Plus, the inclusion of narrated train journeys and expert guides means you’re gently guided through Kiwi natural marvels, gaining insight along the way.

One possible consideration is that this is an independent-style tour, meaning you’ll be on your own at some destinations without detailed guided tours. If you’re after a fully guided experience with constant commentary, this might not fulfill that need. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace while enjoying the comfort of pre-arranged transport and accommodations.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning scenery, value easy logistics, and appreciate authentic local experiences—like exploring Queenstown’s vibrant town center or cruising Milford Sound’s majestic fiords.

Key Points

• All transport included: Coaches, scenic trains, and shuttles remove the stress of self-driving.
• Comfortable accommodations: Five nights in 3- or 4-star lodgings give you a restful base.
• Balanced pace: Mix of guided travel, free exploration, and scenic moments.
• Authentic experiences: Milford Sound cruise and Glacier Valley Shuttle bring you close to nature.
• Dynamic transportation: Different vehicles each day keep the journey engaging.
• Potential for independent discovery: Some destinations are on your own, offering flexibility.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch to Dunedin and Beyond

The journey begins with an early start from Christchurch, crossing the Canterbury Plains. Here, we loved how the landscape transitions from city to vast farmland immediately, highlighting the diverse terrain of the South Island. The highlight for many is the drive over braided rivers that originate high in the Southern Alps, offering a glimpse of the glacial meltwater shaping New Zealand’s landscape.

While this first day is mainly about setting the scene, it also offers a chance to settle into the tour’s rhythm, making your way toward the southern regions of the island. The stop at the Otepoti Dunedin Isite Visitor Information Centre provides a quick glimpse into the city’s charm, but most of your focus will be on the scenic drive.

Day 2: Te Anau and the Glowworm Caves

Traveling through Southland farmland, this leg introduces travelers to the gentle beauty of the region. Passing through Balclutha, you’ll see a typical small-town Kiwi vibe with shops and local life. The highlight here is the boat cruise across Lake Te Anau leading to the Glowworm Caves.

The glowworm experience is quite special, especially the way the cave’s ceiling lights up with tiny, luminous worms—a surreal sight. The included cruise on the Luminosa adds a touch of luxury to the experience, and it’s a quiet, contemplative way to start appreciating New Zealand’s underground marvels. Several reviews note the caves are a highlight, with the tour combining comfort and awe.

Day 3: Milford Sound — The Showstopper

This is the grand day, and the trip over to Milford Sound is as memorable as the destination itself. You’ll board a luxury glass-roofed coach from Queenstown, which allows you to gaze at the mountains and fjord scenery en route. Expect to pass through lush rainforests, towering cliffs, and waterfalls—an ideal introduction to Fiordland National Park.

The Milford Sound Nature Cruise is the centrepiece, offering spectacular views of waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and possibly dolphins or seals. Since the tour uses a narrated coach, you’ll learn about the landscape and history without feeling overwhelmed. The fact that this is a full-day tour (about 12 hours) means you’ll want to come prepared for a lot of scenic beauty and some long travel hours.

Day 4: Queenstown’s Alpine Charm

This free day in Queenstown is all about soaking in the scenery and atmosphere. The town’s location on Lake Wakatipu, with its mountain backdrop, makes it a favorite for outdoor lovers. You can choose to explore on your own or relax.

The Skyline Queenstown Gondola is a must-do. Sitting in the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, you’ll ascend above the town to panoramic views. Several travelers mention how breathtaking the vistas are, making it a worthwhile ride. The gondola also offers options for dining and activities at the top, adding value to your day.

Day 5: West Coast and Franz Josef Glacier

Traveling along the Haast Pass, this part of the tour offers a truly scenic drive through mountains, lakes, and dense rainforest. The transfer to Franz Josef is a long day (around 9 hours), but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

Once there, you’ll meet a Glacier Shuttle representative who takes you up into the glacier valley. The Franz Josef Glacier valley viewing is often described as impressive in its icy grandeur. Several reviews mention the shuttle ride as a highlight, allowing close-up vistas not accessible on foot.

Day 6: Northern Return and Scenic Train

Your final day takes you northward through small towns like Ross, famous for its gold rush history, before boarding the TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch. This journey is renowned worldwide, and many reviewers agree it’s one of the best train trips on the planet.

From your carriage, you’ll see lush forests, deep river valleys, and the peaks of the Southern Alps. The train’s panoramic windows make it easy to enjoy the scenery without fuss. The trip ends in Christchurch, giving you a chance to reflect on your journey as the landscape gradually gives way to the plains of Canterbury.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The guides are often praised for their knowledge, with several reviewers noting the driver/guide, such as “Chris,” as especially informative and personable. Their commentary adds depth to the scenery, transforming a scenic drive into a storytelling experience.

The scenery invariably earns high marks. From fjords to glaciers, the landscapes are genuinely stunning, and the tours’ inclusion of cruises and shuttles provides close-up views that photos alone can’t capture.

However, some travelers found the schedule a bit long on buses and trains, with one reviewer saying, “we spent a lot of time on buses and trains,” which can test patience for those eager for constant activity. Nonetheless, most agree that the scenic moments compensate for the long hours.

A few reviews mention disappointments with the independence of some destinations, noting that some stops felt less guided, which might be a downside for travelers preferring full guided tours. Still, the flexibility to explore at your own pace appeals to many.

Transportation and Accommodation

The tour’s strength lies in its variety of transport modes. Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches, scenic railways, and shuttle buses combine to give a rich travel experience without the stress of self-driving. It’s especially valuable for those unfamiliar with New Zealand’s roads or who prefer a relaxed pace.

Accommodations are described as 3- or 4-star—a good middle ground offering comfort without extravagance. Most are within walking distance of town centers, giving you a chance to explore local cafes and shops.

The full-day scenic train ride from Greymouth to Christchurch is a highlight, praised for its panoramic views and comfortable carriage. This, along with the Milford Sound cruise and Skyline Gondola, offers a range of experiences that emphasize both comfort and spectacle.

Price and Value

At around $3,353.49 per person, this tour is an investment, but it packs a lot into six days. Included are all major transport, accommodation, and key experiences like the Milford Sound cruise and train ride. Reviews suggest the value is high for travelers wanting a seamless, well-organized way to experience the highlights of the South Island.

While meals aren’t included, the accommodations and transport logistics make the price feel justified, especially if you factor in the convenience of not managing bookings and connections yourself. For those eager to see the best without the stress of planning, this tour offers good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves stunning scenery, appreciates scenic train journeys, and prefers organized transport that lets you relax and take in the views, this tour fits well. It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic nature experiences—like cruising Milford Sound or viewing glaciers—without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning.

It’s also suitable if you’re traveling in a group, as the mix of guided and free time offers flexibility, and you don’t mind long travel days. However, if you prefer constant guided commentary or a more intimate guided experience, you might find this more independent style less satisfying.

The Sum Up

This 6-day South Island tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes—from fjords and glaciers to mountain vistas and alpine towns. The mix of scenic transportation, free exploration in Queenstown, and organized tours like Milford Sound cruise and Glacier shuttle make for a memorable, largely stress-free experience.

The highlights—especially the scenic train ride and milestone natural wonders—are highlights many travelers rave about. The accommodations and transport are comfortable and reliable, making it a good choice for those who want to focus on the scenery rather than logistics.

While it’s not a full-guided, constantly narrated experience, the combination of sightseeing and flexibility gives this tour broad appeal. If you’re looking for a practical way to see the South Island’s famed sights with a good mix of comfort and adventure, this trip is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, all transport—including coaches, scenic trains, and shuttles—is included, ensuring smooth travel between destinations without the need to self-drive.

Are accommodations included?
Absolutely. You’ll stay five nights in 3- or 4-star lodgings, chosen for comfort and convenience, often within walking distance of town centers.

What are some of the main activities?
Highlights include a Milford Sound cruise, the Queenstown Skyline Gondola, Glacier Valley Shuttle to Franz Josef Glacier, and the TranzAlpine scenic train from Greymouth to Christchurch.

Can I explore on my own?
Yes, the itinerary offers free time, especially in Queenstown, allowing you to explore independently if you wish.

How long are the travel days?
Some days, like Day 3 (Milford Sound) and Day 5 (Franz Josef), involve long hours on coaches or shuttles, so be prepared for a full day of scenic travel.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 45. However, those who prefer constant guided commentary may find this style more independent, with some destinations on your own.

This tour hits the sweet spot for travelers eager to see New Zealand’s wild beauty with minimal fuss. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a blend of comfort, scenery, and flexibility—perfect for making the most of a short South Island visit.