Southern Explorer South Island Itinerary
Recommended a minimum of 7 days to complete this lower South Island New Zealand tour itinerary
This self-drive itinerary incorporates only the South Island of New Zealand. The arrival point of this itinerary is Dunedin where you can pick up your rental vehicle. Dunedin is one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere and is home to Otago University.
From Dunedin travel to the Catlins Coast. This region takes you to enthralling wildlife experiences, beautiful waterfalls and rustic farmland scenery. Beaches, forest walks and nostalgic hospitality will capture your heart. From the Catlins, travel down to the Southland region taking in Invercargill and the Southern Scenic Route.
Next, visit the world famous Fiordland area which incorporates Te Anau, Manapouri, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Mostly dominated by the steep sides of the snow-capped Southern Alps, Fiordland’s scenery never fails to enthral travellers.
Finally finish up in Southland which includes Invercargill, Catlins, Gore, Fiordland, Bluff & Stewart Island. Southland is lush and green with tranquil waterways which attract fly-fishing enthusiasts in search of brown trout. Near-pristine southern rainforest provides opportunities for day walks and hiking. Invercargill Airport has flights to most of New Zealand major cities, and rental car options are also available.
Use the itinerary below by simply selecting the tourism operators you are interested in. Once submitted, this system will email all of your chosen operators and they will reply to you directly with a no obligation free quote and availability. You can also use this itinerary service to make direct bookings for accommodation, rental vehicles and activities.
- STOPS
- 1. Dunedin
- 2. The Catlins
- 3. Fiordland
- 4. Southland