4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)
This was a great tour of many of the gems of the South Island. The guides were fantastic (and we had a lot of them!). It was well-organized and a good sampling of a lot of different activities. High points in my trip were hiking in Punakaiki Rainforest in a downpour, Mel and I jumping in puddles, learning about edible and medicinal plants from Mel and Shannon, hearing Bell birds while hiking to Lakehead Hut, being presented with strawberries dipped in dark chocolate after dinner at Lakehead Hut (on the first day we were all asked to name our favorite food as a "getting to know you" exercise--that was my answer), the view of Franz Josef Glacier, seeing glow worms in the forest in Franz Josef with Mel, the spectacular views from the top of Rocky Mountain, Milford Sound (every bit of it!), hiking near Aoreki Mount Cook, the stars at night in Mackenzie Country, swimming in Lake Pukaki. In addition, I made some good friends on the trip. Some things could be improved, however. In particular, there was no established covid response except that when one member of the group tested positive, he and his wife quarantined for seven days, which was appropriate. Unfortunately, some members of the group responded by ostracizing other members and it got quite ugly. The guides were at a loss as to how to deal with this and it did put a pall over the group. I think that more communication regarding the accommodations would have helped set expectations realistically. All the accommodations were adequately clean and comfortable, but other than Kaikoura Lodgings, which were really wonderful, they weren't what we expected for the money. Also, we didn't realize how much driving would be involved. Setting realistic expectations from the beginning would help ward off disappointment later. Overall, it was still a wonderful trip and I'm so glad we went with Active Adventures.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.8 Stars (387 reviews)
We so enjoyed our walking adventure on the South Island. The scenery was spectacular, and our guides Emma and Greg were just amazing. The small group tour format is perfect, and the activity level was just right for our family. Would highly recommend to anyone, it truly was a trip of a lifetime!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (336 reviews)
Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!
Ultimate North Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)
The trip was just amazing from the very beginning to the final group hugs at the end. Jess, Jacob (and Ken) were simply wonderful - full of enthusiasm about the scenery, the places, the wildlife, and nothing was too much trouble. They went out of their way to make sure everything was perfect and added lots of little extras to make it just that bit better. The accommodation was lovely, though maybe the mountain hits were a challenge, the food was simply wonderful and the general atmosphere was just great. I loved every minute and would recommend this trip without hesitation.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)
This tour delivered more than it promised ! Trip leaders Brogan and Nic were so thoughtful, hard working, informative, personal and just a joy to be around. They obviously love what they do. The hiking was EPIC ! Great, challenging and rewarding. I loved that we did several backcountry routes that were not highly travelled with other tourists. We were exceptionally lucky with the weather (I know AA is not responsible for the weather) so we never had to bring out our wet weather gear. The accommodations were fantastic and the food was amazingly healthy and abundant, prepared and presented with care and attention. We hardly knew the leaders were working but their tremendous efforts were noted. I loved that there were a mix of ages and travel experience on this adventure and just encourage anyone who thinks they will relish the challenges to go on this trip. Be prepared for a good pace, being pushed to your limits, but with abundant rewards at every turn.
Ultimate South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)
Beautiful location. Guides were excellent, flexible and very attentive to details.
Classic South Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (336 reviews)
Despite having to cancel some activities owing to flooding in Auckland a couple of days before it began, this was a great trip and one I shall remember for a long time.
Ultimate North Island Adventure, January 1970
4.7 Stars (1376 reviews)
Visiting the Galapagos Islands is truly extrordinary. So much to see and learn.
Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure, January 1970