Backpacking the South Island

Te Waipounamu

Prepare for an epic adventure on New Zealand’s South Island, where every turn offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences—you’ll have to pinch yourself to know it’s real!

Abel Tasman National Park boasts stunning coastal scenery with golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s famous for its scenic hikes and kayaking, offering a mix of lush forests and marine wildlife. In Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea, you can enjoy fresh seafood and experience incredible whale-watching tours, the coastal cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for this marine paradise. Keep an eye out for seals and dolphins as you drive along the coastal highway! The Ben Lomond Track is a must-do hike in Queenstown, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Whakatipu. Jet boat down the Shotover River or try the biggest swing in the world at Nevis Canyon. Experience a unique glacier environment in Franz Josef. You can hike or take guided tours on the ice, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The South Island is nature at its finest and features some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.

Find more top recs below!

Prepare for an epic adventure on New Zealand’s South Island, where every turn offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences—you’ll have to pinch yourself to know it’s real!

Abel Tasman National Park boasts stunning coastal scenery with golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s famous for its scenic hikes and kayaking, offering a mix of lush forests and marine wildlife. In Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea, you can enjoy fresh seafood and experience incredible whale-watching tours, the coastal cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for this marine paradise. Keep an eye out for seals and dolphins as you drive along the coastal highway!

The Ben Lomond Track is a must-do hike in Queenstown, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Whakatipu. Jet boat down the Shotover River or try the biggest swing in the world at Nevis Canyon. Experience a unique glacier environment in Franz Josef. You can hike or take guided tours on the ice, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The South Island is nature at its finest and features some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.

Find more top recs below!

South Island travel guides

Discover the best places to explore in the South Island

Tours in the South Island

Hop on a boat tour for the best way to experience Milford Sound!

South Island weather