Explore the unparalleled beauty of the South Island's west coast, where you'll find an abundance of forests, mountains, and protected lands unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. Immerse yourself in the wild and remote coastlines, surrounded by ancient rainforests, while the majestic Southern Alps with their towering peaks and glaciers provide a breathtaking backdrop. 

Embark on a journey to the Wild West Coast of New Zealand, where untouched wilderness awaits in the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. The South Island's West Coast is home to more forests, mountains, and protected lands than any other region in the country. 

This private 3-day West Coast tour offers a customisable itinerary tailored to your photography goals, the time of year, and your travel plans. The tour price includes accommodation for 1 or 2 people in a twin share/double hotel room, along with return transportation in a comfortable 4WD from Queenstown or Wanaka. Your accommodation at Fox Glacier will provide a comfortable base for two nights. 

For those interested, we also offer 3-day tours focusing on the upper West Coast to capture the beauty of the Paparoa and Kahurangi coastline, as well as an extended 5-6 day tour covering the entire West Coast region. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more details. 

ITINERARY

Day 1

Embarking from the picturesque town of Queenstown, we embark on a journey that will take us through the majestic Crown Range and up to the Haast Pass, a gateway to the Wild West Coast. Along the way, we will make stops to capture the beauty of numerous waterfalls, each a testament to nature's artistry.

As we reach our destination, Fox Glacier, our accommodation for the next two nights, we venture out at sunset to capture the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks of the Southern Alps.

 

Day 2

With the dawn of a new day, we find ourselves at Lake Matheson, ready to capture the mesmerizing sunrise. Here, we have the privilege of witnessing the often-perfect reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, the highest mountains in New Zealand.

If the weather permits, an extraordinary opportunity awaits you (at additional cost) - a helicopter flight to the vast upper neve of the Fox Glacier, where unparalleled photo opportunities await.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the day will be spent exploring the nearby Franz Josef glacier area, with the option of embarking on a hike through lush rainforest along one of the many exquisite walking trails.

As the sun sets, we will capture the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, as they rise majestically above a vast expanse of rainforest, overlooking one of the serene lakes or coastal lagoons in the area.

 

Day 3

Our journey continues as we make our way back down the West Coast, immersing ourselves in the magnificent rainforest of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. Crossing back over the Haast Pass, we bid farewell to this enchanting region and return to Queenstown.

Along the way, we will have the opportunity to capture the beauty of the areas we missed during our upward journey, ensuring that no moment of this extraordinary adventure is left uncaptured.

  

HIGHLIGHTS

• A fully customised tour tailored to your desires


• Experience the magic of West Coast sunsets


• Witness the captivating sunrise at Lake Matheson


• Explore the awe-inspiring Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
  
  

INCLUDES

• 2-nights accommodation at the historic Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, complete with breakfast


• Expert tuition and guidance throughout the journey


• Convenient transport and hotel pickup from Queenstown or Wanaka


• Printed workshop notes to enhance your photography