New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
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10 best New Zealand South Island solo travel packages
Compiled by
MelissaNew Zealand South Island travel expert at TourRadar
- Solo-ish New Zealand
- New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound, 9 Days)
- New Zealand: Sweet As South (Eastbound, 9 Days)
- Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic Journeys
- 3 Day Doubtful Sound Adventure Ex Queenstown
- New Zealand South Island Adventure
- 14 Days Best of New Zealand, Auckland, Christchurch & Queenstown
- New Zealand Panorama (Southbound, 16 Days)
- NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands
- Southern Spotlight (Base, 2024/2025, Best Buys, 9 Days)
The South Island tour balances group activities with personal time. Fellow adventurers unite during Hokitika Gorge hikes and Fiordland cruises, while private hotel rooms and independent Queenstown time offer solitude.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Waitomo, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Hokitika, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Fiordland National Park Age Range up to 90 year olds Operated in English Operator G Adventures From
- US$4,499
New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound, 9 Days)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way.”
Nigel, traveled in February 2024
This small-group adventure caters to travelers aged 18-35, with 80% solo traveler rate and average age of 26. Shared hostel and lodge stays complement glacier hikes, bungy jumping, and Milford Sound cruises. Friendships form during included breakfasts and 3 group dinners.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Haast, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, ManapouriSee all destinations Age Range up to 35 year olds Operated in English Operator Contiki From $1,665
20% Off- US$1,332You save $333
Young adventurers aged 18-35 find their tribe here, with all current bookings being solo travelers. Shared hostels and lodges create community while Milford Sound cruising builds bonds. Eight included breakfasts and 2 group dinners foster friendships.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Ohau, Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Manapouri, Arrowtown, Queenstown, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range up to 35 year olds Operated in English Operator Contiki From $1,595
15% Off- US$1,356You save $239
Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic Journeys
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Tour was a nice mix of beautiful landscape and fun physical activities, accommodations were clean and comfortable.”
Alina, traveled in September 2019
Glacier walks, Fiordland cruises, and Queenstown adventures await solo travelers. Private mountain lodge rooms and cruise cabins provide comfort. Like-minded explorers share experiences while maintaining independence through optional activities.
Duration 12 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Fiordland National Park Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in English Operator National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures From
15% Off- US$5,399
3 Day Doubtful Sound Adventure Ex Queenstown
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing!! 1st time in NZ...loved it. Marissa, tour operator! She was excellent in her communications w/ me!”
Chris, traveled in August 2023
Solo adventurers dominate with 60+ single bookings. Quad-share cabin options on Fiordland Navigator reduce costs, while structured activities and shared meals create natural opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
Duration 3 days Destinations Queenstown, Te Anau, Doubtful Sound Age Range 2 to 100 year olds Operated in English Operator Thrifty Tours From
15% Off- US$973
Fellow travelers unite on guided walks through Fox Glacier and Milford Sound. Seven hotel nights and 2 hostel stays in shared twin rooms create natural bonds. Ideal for independent explorers aged 15+, with an average group age of 69.
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Westport, Punakaiki, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Stewart Island Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operated in English Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,785
15% Off- US$4,067You save $718
Flexible scheduling meets guided excursions in this South Island adventure. Small groups gather for Waipara Valley wine tasting, TranzAlpine railway rides, and Milford Sound cruising.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Queenstown, Milford Sound Age Range 5 to 80 year olds Operated in English Operator Australia and New Zealand Travel Company From
15% Off- US$3,688
The South Island beckons solo adventurers with 100% solo booking rate. From Kaikōura's whale watching to Queenstown's adventure sports, expert guides facilitate group connections through shared activities and accommodations.
Duration 16 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Picton, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, HokitikaSee all destinations Age Range up to 35 year olds Operated in English Operator Contiki From $3,005
15% Off- US$2,545You save $459
NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The Highlights Tour put together by Bucket List Tours was exactly what I was hoping for and it exceeded my expectations.”
Richard, traveled in March 2024
Natural wonders of South Island unite like-minded travelers through glacier walks and scenic cruises. Average age 55 with 60% solo travelers ensures social atmosphere while maintaining personal space.
Duration 10 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef, Christchurch Age Range 18 to 90 year olds Operated in English Operator Bucket List Group Travel LLC From
15% Off- US$4,290
South Island's majestic landscapes bring adventurers together, from Milford Sound's waterfalls to Franz Josef's glaciers. Shared moments include Tekapo stargazing and gourmet experiences aboard TSS Earnslaw.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Omarama, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in English Operator AAT Kings From $3,775
10% Off- US$3,398You save $377
What our customers ask about New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
How safe is it to travel alone in New Zealand's South Island?
The South Island offers a secure environment where solo travelers can move about freely. Local police are helpful, crime rates remain low, and towns like Queenstown and Wanaka have clear signage and well-maintained walking paths. Emergency services are readily available, and most Kiwis speak English, making it easy to ask for directions or assistance when needed.
What's the typical cost for solo travelers on New Zealand South Island tours?
South Island tour prices reflect the region's premium travel experience. Five-day tours start at USD $2,279, while two-week adventures range from USD $2,945 to $5,960. These prices typically cover accommodation, ground transportation, and entry to major attractions like Milford Sound and Mount Cook National Park.
What's included in meals on South Island tours?
Tours typically cover daily breakfast at your hotel. Lunch and dinner are usually separate, letting you pick from local spots like Rata in Queenstown or the Lake Matheson Café near Fox Glacier. This setup lets you try different restaurants and eat when and where you want.
What kind of support can I expect as a solo traveler?
Local guides stay with the group throughout the tour, handling logistics and offering suggestions for free-time activities. They help with practical matters like booking optional excursions and provide 24/7 phone support. Each tour includes a detailed orientation session covering safety protocols and daily schedules.
What types of accommodation can I expect on a solo tour in New Zealand's South Island?
Tours use 3-4 star hotels and lodges, each picked for location and comfort. Typical stays include places like The Alps in Twizel and Quest Hotel Queenstown, both offering private bathrooms, WiFi, and on-site restaurants. Room options include single rooms or shared arrangements.
How do solo tours handle transportation around the South Island?
Modern buses and minivans handle most routes, with the TranzAlpine train included for the Christchurch-Southern Alps segment. Vehicles come with WiFi and storage space. Drivers take scenic routes where possible, with regular stops at lookout points and rest areas.
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