New Zealand

We loved our hiking/biking/kayaking trip to New Zealand South Island. The guides were amazing, there are incredible vistas around every turn and the trip coordination was flawless. Also, because VBT hires all local guides, we received great recommendations for restaurants and optional tours on our extension. We also learned some new Kiwi phrases. A gob-smacking adventure!

A wonderful introduction to a marvelous country that left us hungry for more. The trip was a smorgasbord of sights and experiences that comprised a very rich reward for the accompanying travel. The knowledge and insights on cultural and geological history shared by our experienced, enthusiastic guides took each segment to a another level. Auckland (pre) is great while Queenstown (post) is off the charts.

New Zealand is the most beautiful place in the world. At least, that is the conclusion my wife and I reached during our wonderful Country Walkers trip to the South Island. Among other delights, we were treated to a wondrous mix of mountain and water scenery on the Queen Charlotte Track in Marlborough Sounds and fern jungles along along the coastal trails of Abel Tasman National Park. The walking was never too demanding but there was scope to do more for those of us willing to take it on. Our guides, Mark and Sarah, were absolutely superb. Our hotels and food were first rate. We have done a number of these trips now and loved them all. But I have to say this was the best.

Mark and Sarah were the best guides. We did amazing scenic walks, learned a lot about the Maori culture and even learned some Maori words. This was one of the best Country Walkers tours we have done (our 10th we believe). Our group was outstanding and we bonded and had fun. Both the Abel Tasman and the Queen Charlotte Track are parts of the world no one, who likes nature and active travel, should miss.