Tailor-made Travel Experiences in the Central Southern Alps -

The Alps lie in Europe – why travel to New Zealand? Well, let it be known that the Southern Alps in New Zealand are strikingly different from the European mountains, snow-capped peaks aside. Of course, the most apparent difference is the location on the sea: Part of a geological plate boundary, the New Zealand mountain range runs down almost the entire west coast of the South Island. In some places, lush green plains with primary forests and meadows line the range, in others, the rough Tasman Sea pounds away at rocky cliffs, sending spray flying. In a single day, you may walk the harsh ice of a glacier and later stroll down a lonely beach – a rare commodity! Where else can you find lush vegetation and giant ferns against a backdrop of white-hooded peaks? And having touched the topic of the species diversity: The flora and fauna of the Southern Alps is completely different from Europe. Many of the local plants and animals are endemic and quite rare. Consequently, large sections of the Southern Alps have been protected. The Mount Cook National Park encompasses large parts of the central Southern Alps and Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak at 3,800 metres, which is more often than not wrapped up in clouds. The Mount Cook National Park also includes the famous Franz Josef Glacier, the Fox Glacier and the Tasman Glacier. The giant tongues of ice are best visited on flights that are as scenic as they are exciting. Quite often, the glacier flights are offered in combination with a glacier hike – the perfect option to appreciate both perspectives. The little towns (not to be confused with the glaciers and peaks of the same name) Franz-Josef, Fox Glacier and Mount Cook are the most common departure sites. You may take to the air both in helicopters and light airplanes equipped with snow blades. Both aircraft can touch down on the ice and snow. However, only the airplanes can safely turn off their engines, allowing you to appreciate the serene tranquillity of the mountain environment. It is a pleasure for us to prearrange a glacier flight and hike, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday without having to bother with making reservations. Should you be travelling on a tight schedule, we can also arrange to have you picked up in Queenstown or Wanaka. One of the region’s many other spectacular attractions is Lake Tekapo. Farther inland, behind the mountains so to speak, the lake’s turquoise water reflects the snow-capped peaks – a spectacular sight. Those travelling with a rental care or on a private guided tour are well advised to drive the highly scenic Haast Pass. Enjoy spectacular panoramas along the entire route while crossing from the rough and rugged west coast to the mild eastern plains. The penguin colonies on the west coast near Lake Moeraki make for yet another great excursion. Or you may decide to visit the Pancake Rocks “Punakaiki at approximately 200 kilometres distance from Franz Josef.Attractions galore, the stunningly beautiful Southern Alps’ experience is spiced up by highly exclusive and luxurious hotels and lodges that alone almost merit the trip. Spend a few days and ask our consultant team for advice. It is a pleasure for us!

* price per person/week including flight