Hiking & Walking New Zealand Tours & Trip Packages

Hiking & Walking New Zealand Tours & Trips

2,375 Hiking & Walking trips. Tours from 446 tour companies. 10,969 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

27 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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New Zealand
New Zealand: The South Island
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

  • Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
  • Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
  • Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
  • Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
  • Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This tour was one of our favorites. The tour leaders (Claudio and Tiziana) were great. The Dolomites and Italian Alps were breathtaking and the bike paths and towns were well chosen to give us a great appreciation of this Alpine countryside. Once out of Venice you really feel like you are in the country with beautiful mountains, alpine chalets and in some areas mostly German speaking residents. The biking was mostly flat with some crazy fun downhill rides. Almost all of the cycling was on bike paths, so very safe and quiet riding. As expected, VBT delivered a great tour with very good accommodations, good food and a really great group of travellers."

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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand
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By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
41 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

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Trails of New Zealand
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Alps, Auckland, Christchurch

Highlights

  • Discover Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand
  • Gain an insight into Māori culture, join in a hāngi (Māori feast) and cultural performance
  • Enjoy a half-day coastal walk and sailing trip in Abel Tasman National Park
  • Cruise the stunning Milford Soundwith one night on board the Milford Mariner
  • Discover Queenstown and enjoy the scenic delights of this world-famous destination
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Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Trekking in New Zealand
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Alps, Auckland, Fiordland National Park, Wellington

Highlights

  • Discover the primeval landscape of Rotorua
  • Enjoy the golden beaches of Abel Tasman
  • Marvel at Fox Glacier and the deep fiord complexes around Milford
  • Trek in Mount Aspiring National Park
  • Hike while surrounded by smoking volcanoes
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Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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New Zealand Explorer
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous

Visits

Abel Tasman National Park, Alps, Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Mount Cook, Nelson, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasman National Park, Wellington

Highlights

  • Discover the beaches of Abel Tasman and cruise on the Doubtful Sound
  • Explore art deco Napier and enjoy wine tasting at Hawke's Bay
  • Walk to glaciers and discover volcanic White Island

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"This tour was virtually perfect, due largely to the curating skill, personality, regional knowledge & appreciation, dining choices, guiding & FUN capability of our marvelous guide Rocio! And of course, the eye-popping scenery of the western Algarve, Portugal!"

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Walk New Zealand's Queen Charlotte Track
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

  • Hike sections of the Queen Charlotte Track with an expert local leader, weaving through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery of New Zealand’s South Island while learning about its history.
  • Venture from the historic site at Meretoto to the beautiful Endeavour Inlet where you’ll have the chance to explore the bay in a kayak or on a stand up paddleboard.
  • Wander along the coastline through gorgeous native bush and listen for the calls of fantails and bellbirds before arriving at the picturesque seaside settlement of Punga Cove.
  • The scenery may be wild but your accommodation couldn’t be more comfortable – rest your head each night in well positioned lodges with modern amenities.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forest & Bird. Donations help them give nature a voice - protecting wildlife and wild places in Aotearoa New Zealand by advocating for conservation on the ground and at a government level. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Themes

Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Walk New Zealand's Fiordland National Park
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Queenstown

Highlights

  • Walk through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful South Island landscapes and enjoy all the included highlights alongside lots of free time, to rest, relax and explore at your own pace.
  • Enjoy the natural scenery from an e-bike and feel the wind in your hair as you cycle towards the gorgeous Lake Manapouri.
  • Explore the famed Milford Sound – nicknamed the world’s eighth wonder – by foot and ship. Hike to the cascades of Giant Gate Falls and then enjoy a small boat cruise on the sound. Look out for seals and dolphins!
  • Take the option to discover the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves by boat and learn all about these fascinating bioluminescent creatures and their ecosystem from a local guide.
  • Hike to towering summits like Key Summit or Greenstone Valley through surrounding beech forest, rainforest, expansive lakes and rolling hillsides – Middle Earth is calling.
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Themes

Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Queenstown

Highlights

  • Cycle the spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail, the oldest rail trail in the country and voted 'New Zealand's Favourite Ride' for the past two years.
  • Ring along flat, traffic-free paths alongside some of the South Island's most stunning scenery.
  • Begin your journey in Queenstown, an outdoor paradise set among the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand.
  • Experience firsthand the famous hospitality of New Zealanders on a trail built specifically to cater to cyclists.
  • Cycle in the company of an experienced guide as they share their unique perspective of this fascinating region.
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Themes

Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

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Hiking & Walking Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
10,969  Reviews
See all Hiking & Walking tour reviews
Excellent
4,036
Great
953
Average
143
Disappointing
28
Terrible
16
A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A Must Do for every keen hiker

This was an excellent trip. The views are stunning and we were fortunate enough to have 9 dry and sunny days. Loved hiking from France to Switzerland to Italy an...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Just Wow, reason why it's a Top 5 trek

This trek (early July '18) was phenomenal. this is my first real trekking holiday and I have to tell you, I am converted now. the scenery all along the way is sp...

A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

My Magical Tour du Mt Blanc Adventure!

I did this trip in July 2017. It was the most magical, memorable and rewarding adventure trip I have ever done.! This trip is not about rushing from A to B. This t...

A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

An Amazing Trip From Start To Finish

I knew from the moment I arrived in Chamonix and saw the mountains and its glaciers that I had found the right adventure. Here was a chance to do one of the most ...

A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Trek of Treks

I did this exact same trip with Exodus in 2010. I loved it so much, I did it again in 2017! And again, the Alps were stunning, exhilarating and life-affirming. Eve...

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Hiking & Walking Tour Selection Trips

  • Make sure to bring your camera to photograph the diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery you'll see.
  • Check out 50+ tours to be in a group to explore the tours, but at a slower, leisurely pace.
  • Break in your hiking shoes you will be wearing for the trip well beforehand to prevent blisters.
  • Hiking tours vary in the fitness level required and there is a wide variety available to find what's right for you. However, it's always a good idea to start getting in shape beforehand by going on some local hikes or the gym to get your endurance up for your trip.
  • Apply sunscreen before your hike and reapply throughout. You have a better chance of being burnt the higher you go.
  • Research the weather in the area for the time of year you're going. Would you be okay doing the trip if it rains often?
  • Dress in layers, as the weather may change the higher up you go. Even in warmer climates, layers, especially fabrics that breathe well, help with sun exposure.
  • Bring a supportive backpack to carry your gear. Test the backpack out before to make sure it sits comfortably on your shoulders and back and doesn't rub.
  • Stock up on water and snacks to keep you fueled.
  • Check out the activity level and miles covered per day before picking a trip to make sure you will physically be able to handle it.
  • Be flexible. The weather cannot be predicted and your plans for the day may change.
  • Always a good idea to have a small personal first aid pack, though your tour guide will usually be well equipped. You never know if you'll need it for a fall or some other ailment.

Additional details

Best Time of Year to Plan a Hiking Tour

The best time of year to plan a hiking or walking tour depends greatly on the region, weather, and your preference. The tour companies on Stride offer  hiking and walking tours year-round, with many that specialize in winter hiking excursions. For instance, many national parks in the U.S. offer classic winter hiking routes, including The Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park, where you can snowshoe through a winter wonderland during the colder seasons.

In Morocco, you can experience the invigorating Mt Toubkal Winter Climb. You can also enjoy a Canadian Rockies Winter Adventure with action-packed outdoor itineraries guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget the enchanting winters in Scandinavia! If you’re lucky you will get a glimpse of the wondrous Northern Lights on your hiking trip.

Hiking and walking tours might be most common in the summer months, but those in areas that have hotter summers are perfect destinations for fall and spring travel (and will be less crowded in the off season). Again, the national parks and canyons in the U.S. are popular locations, especially Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. Iceland is another top destination for fall and winter hikes.

Top hiking locations in Asia during the fall and spring seasons include Bhutan, China, Japan, and Indonesia. South and Central America also have frequented hiking and walking tours during these seasons to help stay cool from the summer heat! Costa Rica, Peru, Ecuador, and Nicaragua are among the most popular destinations.

If you are looking for hiking and walking tours during summer travel, there will be an abundance of options listed on Stride. Most locations that offer hiking during other parts of the year, also offer hiking tours during the summer season. Just make sure to prepare with adequate breathable clothing, sunblock gear, and plenty of water, especially in locations that are traditionally very hot in the summer.

Hiking tour packing list suggestions

What to pack for a hiking trip can depend on the time of year you are traveling, but overall, your packing list will look quite similar regardless of season. Some important must-pack items are as follows:

1. Hiking backpack - This is an important item to have to carry things you may need along your hiking tours (water bottles, sunscreen, layers, etc.). You could also have it double as a carry on depending on the length of your trip! 

TIP: Be sure to break in your backpack well before the trip. Don’t buy a shiny new one and leave the next day. The material will chafe and get uncomfortable very quickly. Give your pack and your back and shoulders plenty of time to get used to one another first!

2. Weather-appropriate clothing - Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear. Depending on the season, your clothing items may vary. Jackets and layers are always recommended, however. It can still get quite cold during the dawn or dusk times in regions where hiking is popular, especially in the desert and national parks!

3. Sturdy Hiking boots or shoes - Depending on the physical level and terrain of your hiking or walking trip, you may need hiking boots and even poles or other hiking gear. Always check with your tour guide and/or company prior to any hiking trips to confirm what type of equipment might be needed. And similarly with the backpack: always break in your shoes! This will avoid blisters and rubbing - your feet will thank you.

4. Plenty of food - Always carry snacks! (You backpack will come in handy for this). Depending on the length of your hiking tour, you may need more or less sustenance.

5. Plenty of water - This is very important! Always pack ample drinking water on hiking and walking tours (better to have too much than too little). The general rule for adults is 2 cups (about 1/2 liter) of water for every 1 hour of hiking.

6. Sun Protection - Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Even if the sun is not out, there is still a chance of sun exposure and sunburn, so keep yourself safe and comfortable by protecting your skin on hikes!

7. Illumination - Flashlight, lanterns, and headlamp. Depending on the region and time of year, lights might be helpful to bring on your hiking tour. Check with your tour guide and company to see what they recommend.

8. Navigation - Map, compass, and GPS system. Although most tour guides will be equipped with these items, it is always a safe idea to have them for your own personal use as well. If you ever partake in a self-guided hiking tour, these will definitely come in handy to ensure a safe and fun hiking trip.

9. First-aid kit - In case of any injury that might occur on the hiking trail, it is always smart and safe to have a first-aid kit on hand. Again, tour guides most often have these tools, so check with them to confirm prior to your walking or hiking tour.

What are the fitness expectations for hiking tours?

One of the significant benefits of choosing a hiking or walking tour on Stride is that you can find an option for any physical level, whether you are an avid and advanced hiker, or you prefer more casual, leisurely walking tours. Hiking and walking tours range from very easy to extreme on Stride. The majority of hiking tours listed (1,000+) are moderate.

Easy hikes consist of low elevation, low intensity, and shorter distances. Extreme hikes typically consist of higher incline, longer durations, and more vigorous routes and terrain. If you are interested in hiking and walking as only part of your holiday, you can find both easy and difficult physical level options that are paired with other excursions, however, it is the more extreme physical levels that are primarily focused on hiking and trekking alone.

See all Easy Hiking Tours »

See all Moderate Hiking Tours »

See all Strenuous Hiking Tours »

See all Extreme Hiking Tours »

Hiking vs. Trekking: What’s the difference?

When distinguishing between hiking and trekking, the biggest difference between the two terms is the intent and rigor. Hiking can range from easy to strenuous, but the primary intent is leisure, most prominently on man-made and marked trails.

Trekking, on the other hand, is seen as more intense, off-the-beaten-path type of hiking. Here trails are often less frequented, routes are more challenging, and travelers are more experienced, pushing their physical and mental capacity along with their endurance.

Trekking tours are more often focused primarily on the routes, many being paired with camping and multiple-day hikes and excursions. Make sure to clarify with your tour guide and company whether your trip is a trekking or hiking tour, to make sure you are adequately prepared!

Safety on Walking Tours

If you choose to embark on a hiking or walking trip, no matter what part of the world, we highly recommend a guided tour. Going on a hiking tour is one of the best ways to get up close and personal with a country and its natural sights. It also helps with safety. Walking tours often take travelers into isolated places where it may be hard to find help, and easier to get lost. By going on a guided hiking tour, it is guaranteed that you will be with an expert who knows the area well, and you will never be alone in case of an emergency. 

Preparation is also a big part of being safe on a hiking tour. If you are planning on visiting Nepal, for example, you should prepare with the right kinds of clothing, be realistic about the kind of endurance that may be required, and read up on the possibility of altitude sickness. 

Hiking Tours in South America

Most hiking and walking tours in South America emphasize its unique natural scenery. Patagonia, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the Amazon rainforest are the most popular destinations offered.

Patagonia

Patagonia is a region comprised of Argentina and Chile. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery in the form of mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes and forests. In Argentina, Patagonia hiking tours note that Tierra del Fuego National Park and Los Glaciares National Park are a top attraction. While in Chile, most tours make sure to include Torres del Paine National Park. Most hiking tours through Patagonia involve lots of camping, exercise, and other outdoor excursions.

Peru & The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the trail taken in order to reach numerous ancient, archaeological sites in Peru. The most popular of which is Machu Picchu. The trail itself displays a beautiful array of natural scenery from cloud forests to mountain ranges. The journey to the top, although challenging, is proven to be well worth it with its stunning views of ancient ruins surrounded by lush greenery.

Because of its growing popularity among travelers worldwide, planning ahead is a must. The Peruvian government limits the amount of travelers on the trail each day, so make sure you book a tour to Machu Picchu far in advance.

The Amazon

Hiking tours of the Amazon Rainforest are most common in Brazil, which houses about 60% of this jungle. The Amazon is the largest and most biologically diverse tropical rainforest in the world. Because of its sheer size, taking a guided tour is always highly recommended. Guided tours provide insightful knowledge about this truly unique jungle and its inhabitants. They are also very aware of the terrain and always make sure to take the proper safety precautions.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 2375 trips to Hiking & Walking and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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