7 days exploring remote South Island backcountry, classic 4WD tracks, high country valleys, river crossings and big mountain scenery, with the comfort of returning to accommodation each night.

7-day guided small convoy expedition

Price is per vehicle, not per person

Overview

This 7-day expedition follows the same outstanding route as our 7 Day Camping trip, but with the added comfort and flexibility of returning to civilisation each evening. It is designed for those who want the full South Island overland experience by day, while enjoying a hot shower, a comfortable bed and a meal out at night.

Travelling from Canterbury to the Queenstown Lakes, the trip combines classic 4WD touring, high country scenery, river valleys, gold mining country and remote backcountry driving into one memorable journey. It is an ideal option for those who want all the highlights of our camping expedition without needing to camp each night.

Why this trip stands out

This trip stands out because it gives you the best of both worlds — full days exploring remote South Island wilderness, followed by the freedom to choose your own level of comfort each evening. You still experience the scale, variety and adventure of a genuine overland journey, but with more flexibility at the end of each day.

With a small group, a relaxed expedition style and carefully chosen overnight stops, this trip offers a comfortable way to experience some of the South Island’s finest backcountry routes. It is perfect for travellers who enjoy adventure during the day, but prefer accommodation, dining options and a hot shower at night.

Trip highlights

• Canterbury to Queenstown Lakes over 7 unforgettable days
• Small convoy expedition
• Harper Valley
• Avoca Valley
• Macaulay Valley
• Lake Pukaki and views of Aoraki / Mt Cook
• Hopkins Valley
• Oteake Conservation Area
• Nevis Valley
• Macetown, time and weather permitting
• Remote high country scenery, river crossings and gold mining country
• The flexibility to choose your own accommodation style each night

Accommodation

Rather than spending the nights in the wilderness, we spend our days there before returning to civilisation each evening. This gives you the full backcountry experience during the day, while allowing you to enjoy a comfortable bed, a hot shower and the option of a restaurant meal at night.

If you prefer camping on some nights, that can also be part of the experience depending on the accommodation options available in each location. We choose our overnight stops with flexibility in mind, so you can decide how much comfort or adventure you want to include in your trip.

We aim to finish each day at around 5.00 pm, leaving the evenings free for you to relax, explore or meet up with the group for a drink or meal.

Vehicle requirements

Participants join in their own suitable 4WD vehicle. Your vehicle should be well-maintained and properly equipped for gravel roads, backcountry tracks, river crossings and changing mountain conditions. A preparation guide and kit list will be provided before departure. For more information on vehicle suitability, trip preparation and what to bring, please see our FAQs page.

What’s included

Guided expedition leadership, route planning, pre-trip information and support throughout the journey.

What’s not included

Travel to and from the trip start and finish points, accommodation, fuel, food and drinks, personal travel insurance, and any vehicle-related costs including recovery, repairs or damage. Please see our FAQs page for more information on bookings, payments and trip logistics.

Cost

The cost of the NZ Wilderness Expedition – 7 Days Comfort is $3,000 per vehicle.

Ready to join the adventure?

Choose your departure date above to book your place, or get in touch if you would like help deciding whether this is the right trip for you. If you are looking for a rewarding South Island overland journey with remote wilderness by day and comfort each night, this is the trip.