4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)
The tour guides, Andy and Lisa, were wonderful. Andy is so knowledgeable about the country, the history, the geography, geology, the Maori culture, etc. Both were upbeat, positive, helpful, considerate and fun. We saw so much in 8 days. The van was very uncomfortable and we did many hours of driving, especially the 1st day. Most of us had a hard time fitting our legs into the seats. The guides worked very hard, even making our meals on most days, which were fine. The accommodations were pretty good, but the last lodging was not what was listed on the itinerary. It was at a much less expensive and looked like a much lesser quality place to stay two nights. The itinerary listed that we would stay at Te Anua Lodge, and we stayed at Tasman Holiday Parks, which was clean, but still much less expensive, so it kind of felt like a bait and switch. The Makarora Lodge was not a great place to stay, with the water that needed boiling, a radiator in the room that didn't work, the electricity that went out and the inability to use any laundry facilities. But I understand that we were in a remote area with limited options. It was hard to tell what our activities were actually going to be and seemed to deviate from what was on the written itinerary, albeit sometimes this was relating to weather conditions. We loved the flight into the Siberia Valley and that area was breathtaking. The hike out was much more challenging that was listed, but was beautiful. Loved the jet boat ride, rain and all. Milford Sound cruise was beautiful, Mirror Lakes gorgeous. Loved the Kepler Track hike through serene beech forests. Haast pass lookout was nice but the weather made it less interesting. The tour took us to places we would have had a hard time knowing to visit on our own. Overall a very positive experience.
Classic South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (1139 reviews)
Good, really enjoyed it
Patagonia Hiking Adventure, January 1970
4.5 Stars (754 reviews)
Good, really enjoyed it
North Island Volcanic Adventure, January 1970
4.6 Stars (90 reviews)
This trip was very well organised with excellent accommodation and wonderful guides, Liana and Kayla. The lunches and evening meals prepared by them were amazing. The 5 day trip itinerary gives a good introduction to the northland of New Zealand’s North Island. Despite many of the activities being curtailed by post cyclone damage, the guides were quick to adapt the itinerary as necessary and still make sure that we had an excellent trip.
Northland Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (336 reviews)
This trip was very well organised with excellent accommodation and wonderful guides, Liana and Kayla. The lunches and evening meals prepared by them were amazing. The 5 day trip itinerary gives a good introduction to the northland of New Zealand’s North Island. Despite many of the activities being curtailed by post cyclone damage, the guides were quick to adapt the itinerary as necessary and still make sure that we had an excellent trip.
Ultimate North Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (1376 reviews)
This trip was on our bucket list, and it did not disappoint. The Galapagos themselves are a marvel, but to get a real flavour and understanding of this natural treasure, one needs experienced, knowledgeable, guides; and on this trip our Active Adventure Guides, Pepo and Paolo, were outstanding. They turned a really good trip into a superb trip. Everything about our time in the islands was amazing. The organization, equipment, timing, excursions, transportation, food, lodging (in general) were top notch. Importantly our guides briefed us several times per day regarding what we were going to do, what we needed to wear and what to expect. Yes, this was an expensive trip, but you get what you pay for.
The company's name "Active Adventures" is dead on accurate. We were active from early morning until evening everyday, so one needs to be prepared for this trip. Its not a cruise - its an adventure. We saw and experienced everything that was advertised and more. The food was outstanding. Not the usual tourist fare, but authentic Ecuadorian cuisine. That in itself was an adventure not to be missed.
I think the only negative comment we would have is that the two dinners in Quito, at the EB hotel, on the first and last day of our trip were disappointing. We felt rushed. There was no opportunity to get a drink or glass of wine, the portions were very small, leaving everyone in the group still hungry after dinner. We think that those two dinner experiences could be improved significantly. Having said that, the breakfasts at the EB were superb.
Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)
After we returned, a friend asked me what was the best thing about our trip. If I had to pick just one thing - it would be our two guides. The country, the scenery, the food, the people: everything exceeded my expectations and it was our guides who pulled it all together. We didn't have to worry about anything because we were in good hands. I will definitely look into future travel options with Active Adventures.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)
Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!
Classic South Island Adventure, January 1970