The World's 25 Best New Trips: 'Hoiho Wildlife'

The World's 25 Best New Trips: 'Hoiho Wildlife'

National Geographic Adventure magazine - November 2006



What's new: Ask any group of experienced guides about their dream trips, and chances are they'll rattle off dozens of options. This year Queenstown-based Active Adventures New Zealand invented a creative way to take advantage of all this unrealized trip-planning potential: The outfitter inaugurated an annual competition among its guides to design the best trip around New Zealand. The winner, of course, would get to lead his or her entry.

On the ground: After trekking in the shadows of 12,316-foot (3,754-meter) Mount Cook, you'll set out on a three-day hut-to-hut hike along Warmington's favorite trail, the five-year-old Hump Ridge Track. Tucked into the southwest corner of the South Island, the 35-mile (56-kilometer) route has two new backcountry mountain lodges and offers stellar views of both Lake Hauroko, at 1,516 feet (462 meters) the country's deepest lake, and the moody mountain ranges of Fiordland National Park. The trip culminates with an overnight cruise through isolated Doubtful Sound, where you'll explore waterfall-draped shorelines populated by seals and gape as the sun dips into the Tasman Sea.

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What people say about our trips

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Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - March 2024

Fun Adventure

"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was a little sus, actually, and was uncertain how things would go. Those concerns were quickly dismissed once I met our guide, Roy, and driver, George. They found excellent hotels, activity vendors, restaurants, led informative and exciting hikes, and put together an overall awesome itinerary. Each day was filled with adventure, fun and local food. I have to admit the trip exceeded my expectations and I'm considering exploring the east coast of Costa Rica now that I've experienced the west coast.

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"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was… read more

"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was a little sus, actually, and was uncertain how things would go. Those concerns were quickly dismissed once I met our guide, Roy, and driver, George. They found excellent hotels, activity vendors, restaurants, led informative and exciting hikes, and put together an overall awesome itinerary. Each day was filled with adventure, fun and local food. I have to admit the trip exceeded my expectations and I'm considering exploring the east coast of Costa Rica now that I've experienced the west coast. read less

5 Stars (13 reviews)

S Steven | March 2024

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - March 2024

Pura Vida - Costa Rica

"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my last! Costa Rica, Guanacaste trip was amazing. The activities were well planned and ran smoothly. The nature was beautiful and everything I hoped it would be. But the best part was our guide Roy and our driver Jorge! They 100% made my trip the best it could be. I am a single traveler and I always felt safe, taken care of and very much entertained and educated! I definitely recommend the Guanacaste, CR trip and if you are lucky to get Roy and Jorge, you are guaranteed to LOVE IT!

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"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my… read more

"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my last! Costa Rica, Guanacaste trip was amazing. The activities were well planned and ran smoothly. The nature was beautiful and everything I hoped it would be. But the best part was our guide Roy and our driver Jorge! They 100% made my trip the best it could be. I am a single traveler and I always felt safe, taken care of and very much entertained and educated! I definitely recommend the Guanacaste, CR trip and if you are lucky to get Roy and Jorge, you are guaranteed to LOVE IT! read less

5 Stars (13 reviews)

J Jeannine | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

South Island Immersion

"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and very knowledgeable guides who take you as far and as deep into the country as you want. - Angus, Toronto, Canada.

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"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and… read more

"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and very knowledgeable guides who take you as far and as deep into the country as you want. - Angus, Toronto, Canada. read less

5 Stars (534 reviews)

a angus | March 2024

Milford Track Adventure - March 2024

An Excellent Way to See the Beauty of New Zealand

"It is over all a well designed trip. We enjoyed the whole trip and the company of fellow travelers very much. Especially our guides Aleisha and Luck are excellent.

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"It is over all a well designed trip. We enjoyed the whole trip and… read more

"It is over all a well designed trip. We enjoyed the whole trip and the company of fellow travelers very much. Especially our guides Aleisha and Luck are excellent. read less

5 Stars (191 reviews)

C Chin | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

Trip of a lifetime

"When booking this trip for me I knew it would be a once in a lifetime experience and I'm almost glad I set that expectation for myself at the start because I'm not sure any trip I do in the future will live up to it. The itinerary is great, so much packed in in a week and everything was a highlight, if I had to pick I'd say Milford Sound and Siberia Valley. The food, I hadn't really considered before the trip started but Lauren's food was incredible every time. I didn't expect to learn so much about New Zealand but loved that I did. Active is a great company on the trip everything was so slick I didn't have to worry about a thing, and having the small groups with two amazing guides creates a very personalised and fun experiment.

read more

"When booking this trip for me I knew it would be a once in a… read more

"When booking this trip for me I knew it would be a once in a lifetime experience and I'm almost glad I set that expectation for myself at the start because I'm not sure any trip I do in the future will live up to it. The itinerary is great, so much packed in in a week and everything was a highlight, if I had to pick I'd say Milford Sound and Siberia Valley. The food, I hadn't really considered before the trip started but Lauren's food was incredible every time. I didn't expect to learn so much about New Zealand but loved that I did. Active is a great company on the trip everything was so slick I didn't have to worry about a thing, and having the small groups with two amazing guides creates a very personalised and fun experiment. read less

5 Stars (534 reviews)

O Olivia | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

Fantastic trip

"I had a fantastic time travelling with Active Adventures to the South Island of New Zealand. I'm especially grateful to the staff at the corporate office who helped squeeze me in on such short notice given how last minute my trip was! The trip was perfect for me as I prefer more active vacations and was able to experience New Zealand through hiking, which was exactly what I wanted. I loved the other travelers in my tour group, and my guides were absolutely fantastic and looked after the group very very well while providing very interesting commentary on New Zealand.

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"I had a fantastic time travelling with Active Adventures to the South Island of New… read more

"I had a fantastic time travelling with Active Adventures to the South Island of New Zealand. I'm especially grateful to the staff at the corporate office who helped squeeze me in on such short notice given how last minute my trip was! The trip was perfect for me as I prefer more active vacations and was able to experience New Zealand through hiking, which was exactly what I wanted. I loved the other travelers in my tour group, and my guides were absolutely fantastic and looked after the group very very well while providing very interesting commentary on New Zealand. read less

5 Stars (534 reviews)

K Karishma | March 2024

Ultimate North Island Adventure - March 2024

New Zealand - North

"A really nice overview of the north island is included in this adventure. You will learn about the ancient Maori culture and how it is being kept alive for future generations. There is a lot of traveling with a safe driver who is also one of the guides. There is a choice of activities to participate in. Overnight accommodations are comfortable and there is plenty of food and snacks.

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"A really nice overview of the north island is included in this adventure. You will… read more

"A really nice overview of the north island is included in this adventure. You will learn about the ancient Maori culture and how it is being kept alive for future generations. There is a lot of traveling with a safe driver who is also one of the guides. There is a choice of activities to participate in. Overnight accommodations are comfortable and there is plenty of food and snacks. read less

5 Stars (378 reviews)

K Karen | March 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - March 2024

Stickney Family Trip to Patagonia

"It was the most beautiful and adventurous trip we have taken as a family. Calving glacier, 3 Pumas, Condors, gorgeous scenery....and a whole lot of family time together. Our guides Gustavo and Nico were excellent and made the trip the success that it was.

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"It was the most beautiful and adventurous trip we have taken as a family. Calving… read more

"It was the most beautiful and adventurous trip we have taken as a family. Calving glacier, 3 Pumas, Condors, gorgeous scenery....and a whole lot of family time together. Our guides Gustavo and Nico were excellent and made the trip the success that it was. read less

5 Stars (375 reviews)

K Kathleen | March 2024

Classic Machu Picchu Adventure - March 2024

Great Trip

"My husband and I had a wonderful time on the Classic Macchu Pichu trip. The itinerary was well thought out. We learned so much about Inca (and pre-Inca) life leading up to seeing Macchu Pichu. There were also hikes to see the beautiful countryside. The food was excellent. Our guide Wilson was very knowledgeable and fun while being concerned about our well being.

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"My husband and I had a wonderful time on the Classic Macchu Pichu trip. … read more

"My husband and I had a wonderful time on the Classic Macchu Pichu trip. The itinerary was well thought out. We learned so much about Inca (and pre-Inca) life leading up to seeing Macchu Pichu. There were also hikes to see the beautiful countryside. The food was excellent. Our guide Wilson was very knowledgeable and fun while being concerned about our well being. read less

5 Stars (1 reviews)

F Frank | March 2024

New Zealand Walking Adventure - March 2024

Great trip to New Zealand

"Traveling with Active Adventures to New Zealand was my first solo hiking trip. I admit I am still a beginner hiker, but the activity levels helped me decide that I was ready for a level 2 adventure. From the moment I met the group and our two guides, Noah and Koru, I knew I had made the right decision. We made several stops along our way around the South Island, hiking, shopping, eating and just enjoying. With the exception of one hike, I felt comfortable yet challenged making my way along the hikes. (I should have done more stair work before I went, because the land does undulate more than I realized!)

Koru and Noah worked together seamlessly driving us from location to location, explaining the meaning and history of the country and the people, cooking for us and there were great choices of restaurants when we went out to eat.

Although the trip could have accommodated more people, our group consisted of seven. It was great to meet and get to know these wonderful people that travelled with me. There was never a time that I felt unsafe or confused about the days events…

read more

"Traveling with Active Adventures to New Zealand was my first solo hiking trip. I… read more

"Traveling with Active Adventures to New Zealand was my first solo hiking trip. I admit I am still a beginner hiker, but the activity levels helped me decide that I was ready for a level 2 adventure. From the moment I met the group and our two guides, Noah and Koru, I knew I had made the right decision. We made several stops along our way around the South Island, hiking, shopping, eating and just enjoying. With the exception of one hike, I felt comfortable yet challenged making my way along the hikes. (I should have done more stair work before I went, because the land does undulate more than I realized!)

Koru and Noah worked together seamlessly driving us from location to location, explaining the meaning and history of the country and the people, cooking for us and there were great choices of restaurants when we went out to eat.

Although the trip could have accommodated more people, our group consisted of seven. It was great to meet and get to know these wonderful people that travelled with me. There was never a time that I felt unsafe or confused about the days events and was allowed to sit out a hike due to a blister...yes, I am still learning to deal with the blisters.

I just can't say enough about how great this trip was. read less

5 Stars (237 reviews)

C Cecile | March 2024

New Zealand Walking Adventure - March 2024

New Zealand walking adventure on South Island

"The trip was beyond amazing. Our group was a nice small size with everyone getting along fabulously and our guides were outstanding from day 1 with their knowledge and love for the country as well as the outdoors and trails we explored. One guide cooked on occasion and the meals were delicious ; better than a restaurant. The weather cooperated but even when it did not that did not damper our spirits, rather it enhanced the day with the elements reminding us of where we were. We were definitely fortunate and now have such wonderful memories

read more

"The trip was beyond amazing. Our group was a nice small size with everyone… read more

"The trip was beyond amazing. Our group was a nice small size with everyone getting along fabulously and our guides were outstanding from day 1 with their knowledge and love for the country as well as the outdoors and trails we explored. One guide cooked on occasion and the meals were delicious ; better than a restaurant. The weather cooperated but even when it did not that did not damper our spirits, rather it enhanced the day with the elements reminding us of where we were. We were definitely fortunate and now have such wonderful memories read less

5 Stars (237 reviews)

H Harriet | March 2024

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - March 2024

Exceeded Expectations

"Every step of this adventure was amazing! Pepo and Paolo, our guides, made the logistics of the trip seamless, but more importantly, their knowledge, experience and pride in their Islands and its people gave us a real understanding of the marvel that is the Galapagos. The trip could not have been better and we will look for other opportunities to travel with Active Adventures.

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"Every step of this adventure was amazing! Pepo and Paolo, our guides, made the logistics… read more

"Every step of this adventure was amazing! Pepo and Paolo, our guides, made the logistics of the trip seamless, but more importantly, their knowledge, experience and pride in their Islands and its people gave us a real understanding of the marvel that is the Galapagos. The trip could not have been better and we will look for other opportunities to travel with Active Adventures. read less

5 Stars (502 reviews)

M Mary Ellen | March 2024

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - March 2024

Amazing adventure in the Galapagos

"The Ultimate Galapagos Adventure was an amazing trip, four islands, several snorkeling opportunities, beautiful beaches, hiking, biking, and kayaking for variety. The guides were very knowledgable and gave us plenty of information about the geology, ecology, and culture of the islands. Food was delicious, hotels right on the beach with amazing views. The small group experience meant that we had flexibility, everyone got along, and we all were ready to go on time, never had to wait for late comers.

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"The Ultimate Galapagos Adventure was an amazing trip, four islands, several snorkeling opportunities, beautiful beaches,… read more

"The Ultimate Galapagos Adventure was an amazing trip, four islands, several snorkeling opportunities, beautiful beaches, hiking, biking, and kayaking for variety. The guides were very knowledgable and gave us plenty of information about the geology, ecology, and culture of the islands. Food was delicious, hotels right on the beach with amazing views. The small group experience meant that we had flexibility, everyone got along, and we all were ready to go on time, never had to wait for late comers. read less

5 Stars (502 reviews)

M Margaret | March 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

Amazing adventure!

"The guides (Cem and Alejandro in particular) were amazing and the activities were awesome! I enjoyed that travel days also included activity, so we were always exploring. Going on the W trek was a highlight of my life!

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"The guides (Cem and Alejandro in particular) were amazing and the activities were awesome! I… read more

"The guides (Cem and Alejandro in particular) were amazing and the activities were awesome! I enjoyed that travel days also included activity, so we were always exploring. Going on the W trek was a highlight of my life! read less

4 Stars (375 reviews)

H Heidi | February 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

Miraculous Views

"I completely did not know what to expect and this just was incredibly amazing. I completely was lucky enough
to enjoy the most incredible guide, Gem. He was attentative, knowledgeable, funny, definitely an asset to the company.
My group was small 9 people including myself. Trip was a total of 2 weeks. I was brave enough to do the camping with 2 others. I do not regret that at all. What an experience!! I loved the refugios, speechless views, sunsets, sun rises, amazing Glaciers and of course experienced the winds!! The other 6 picked glamping, which had a great guide. We all met together again at the end of the "w Trek". The food along the way was perfect! Experienced local dinning, camping food, lunch boxes , lots of choices.
The rides through Chile and Argentina to get to our destinations was great. Got to see many animals, birds, plants on the way. Every little town we stayed in was phenomenal!!!
I already miss my guide and all the great people I have met along the way.
Will definitely do this again, but not without my guide Gem!!

read more

"I completely did not know what to expect and this just was incredibly amazing. I… read more

"I completely did not know what to expect and this just was incredibly amazing. I completely was lucky enough
to enjoy the most incredible guide, Gem. He was attentative, knowledgeable, funny, definitely an asset to the company.
My group was small 9 people including myself. Trip was a total of 2 weeks. I was brave enough to do the camping with 2 others. I do not regret that at all. What an experience!! I loved the refugios, speechless views, sunsets, sun rises, amazing Glaciers and of course experienced the winds!! The other 6 picked glamping, which had a great guide. We all met together again at the end of the "w Trek". The food along the way was perfect! Experienced local dinning, camping food, lunch boxes , lots of choices.
The rides through Chile and Argentina to get to our destinations was great. Got to see many animals, birds, plants on the way. Every little town we stayed in was phenomenal!!!
I already miss my guide and all the great people I have met along the way.
Will definitely do this again, but not without my guide Gem!! read less

5 Stars (375 reviews)

M Monica | February 2024

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