New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
How about cooking a kiwi meal with new friends, hiking to Mt Eden summit for Auckland views, and learning Maori culture and enjoying a Hangi lunch? Explore glow worm caves in Waitomo, and cruise through Fiordland National Park. New Zealand’s South Island delivers adventure and culture perfectly for singles traveling together, allowing you to make new friends effortlessly.
10 best New Zealand South Island solo travel packages
Compiled by
MelissaNew Zealand South Island travel expert at TourRadar
- Solo South Island Escape - 11 days (Superior)
- Solo South Island Escape - 11 days
- The Gumboot Tour
- New Zealand South Island Express (10 destinations)
- Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
- NZ: North & South Island (Southbound)
- 9 Days in Christchurch and Queenstown by Bus: Kaikoura, Arthur’s Pass, Mt Cook & Queenstown Skydive
- Big South
- Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
- A Self-Drive Odyssey Across New Zealand - Private
Duration 11 days Destinations Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Walter Peak, Arrowtown, Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 24 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator On The Go Tours From
- US$5,605
Duration 11 days Destinations Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Walter Peak, Arrowtown, Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 24 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator On The Go Tours From
- US$4,740
The Gumboot Tour
“The atmosphere on the trip was wonderful - everyone mixing and having fun together.”
Susan, traveled in March
Solo travelers 18+ bond in multi-share dorm rooms at spots like Mahinapua Hotel and lakeside hostels in Queenstown, with Kiwi Driver Guides helping you connect throughout the 12-day trip. Walk through Abel Tasman's native forest and hike to Franz Josef Glacier lookouts.
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 55 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
- US$1,063
New Zealand South Island Express (10 destinations)
“The trip was amazing. Everything about the whole experience from Day 1 to the end is perfect.”
Elizabeth, traveled in January
A vibrant community awaits, with 85% solo travelers exploring South Island's beauty. Shared hostel dorms host stargazing at Lake Tekapo, Queenstown adventures, and Franz Josef glacier discoveries.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Kawarau Gorge, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From
- US$1,965
Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
“The hotels were all of a good standard. Our overall tour guide worked hard to make sure everyone had a good time.”
Jean, traveled in December
The South Island route welcomes solo travelers (44% booking rate) with shared experiences like TranzAlpine train journey and Fiordland National Park cruise. Single rooms available in Queenstown and Franz Josef, with group activities fostering connections.
Duration 12 days Destinations Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo, Rotorua, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook (Village), Wanaka, ArrowtownSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator National Geographic Expeditions with G Adventures From
- US$5,899
NZ: North & South Island (Southbound)
“She really went out of her way to include everyone and to organise anything and everything for everyone!”
Austin, traveled in December
Adventure seekers connect on South Island excursions, from Kaikōura's marine encounters to Franz Josef's glacier hikes. Fellow explorers (average age 29) share experiences while staying at iconic locations like Mount Cook and Queenstown's adventure hub.
Duration 16 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua, Huka Falls Resort, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Ohakune, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, PictonSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Group Size Max Group Size 45 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $2,974
22% off- US$2,330
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Arthur's Pass National Park, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown Age Range Ages 2-60 Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator STM Tours LLC From $3,083
30% off- US$2,158
Big South
“My trip was absolutely amazing!! Thank you Tourradar and Wild Kiwi!!!”
Sarah, traveled in February
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Group Size Max Group Size 18 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $2,004
5% off- US$1,904+$320 upfront costs
Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
“amazing it was! cool acitivities, good advices what to do/where to go and of course, many amazing people to meet!”
Ariana, traveled in February
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Hanmer Springs, Akaroa Age Range Ages 18-49 Group Size Max Group Size 18 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
5% off- US$979
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island, Rotorua, Napier, Wellington, Blenheim, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Lake TekapoSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 8 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Vio Travel From
5% off- US$3,087
What people love about touring New Zealand South Island solo
- Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
This was an excellent tour with a very knowledgeable guide (Jonno). We only had 6 people on the tour which allowed us to get to know each other very well over the 12 day tour. The tour bus was very clean and our driver/guide kept us entertained during the entire trip. All transportation (bus, flight, train & boat) were well coordinated and we never felt rushed. Our guide always made good suggestions for lunch and dinner and we often ate together as a group. Overall a good experience that I would highly recommend for anyone wanting to see the most of both North and South islands over a 2 weeks period.
This tour has been enriching, fun, and a life changing experience. To meet complete strangers of different backgrounds and to finish the tour as friends, even family. I am thankful for the guides Julian and Telli, they made this journey a complete blast. Please continue to show the world the wonderful adventures of the wild kiwis.
Big South
- NZ: North & South Island (Southbound)
Susie made my contiki 10 times better than what I expected. She really went out of her way to include everyone and to organise anything and everything for everyone! Would love Susie to lead another one of my tours!
What our customers ask about New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
What's the typical single supplement cost for solo travelers on New Zealand South Island tours?
Solo travelers should expect to pay an additional USD 200-600 for single room supplements on South Island tours. The cost varies based on tour length and room quality. Higher-end properties like Heritage Queenstown set supplements around USD 300 while budget accommodations cost less. Budget-conscious travelers might want to look for tours using hostels and backpacker lodges which often have lower single supplements or roommate matching options.
Which South Island destinations are most popular with solo travelers?
Three destinations stand out among solo travelers. Queenstown draws visitors with its mix of daytime activities and evening social scene along Lake Wakatipu. At Franz Josef Glacier travelers join guided hikes and unwind in communal hot pools. Milford Sound's group boat tours create natural opportunities to connect with others while taking in the fjord landscapes. The Scenic Hotel Franz Josef serves as a social hub where travelers often gather to share stories from their day's adventures.
What's the best time of year for solo travelers to visit New Zealand's South Island?
Summer months from December through February see the highest number of solo travelers with nearly one-third of annual bookings. The warm weather and increased tour options create more chances to meet people. October-November and March-April offer good alternatives with mild temperatures and smaller crowds. Winter brings fewer visitors but creates perfect conditions for ski enthusiasts to connect on the slopes.
What transportation options work best for solo travelers on the South Island?
Guided tours typically use modern coaches equipped with WiFi and commentary systems particularly on routes to Milford Sound. The TranzAlpine railway between Greymouth and Christchurch gives travelers a chance to move around and chat with others while crossing the Southern Alps. Many solo travelers find these group transport options lead to natural conversations and shared experiences.
What are the most popular activities for solo travelers in New Zealand's South Island?
Group activities create natural ways to meet others while exploring. The Hooker Valley Track at Mount Cook draws hikers while Milford Sound cruises bring people together on deck. Wine tours through Central Otago vineyards and soaks in Lake Tekapo Springs' thermal pools give solo travelers easy ways to connect. Adventure activities in Queenstown from bungee jumping to jet boating often include group transportation making it easy to meet others with similar interests.
How safe is it for solo travelers on guided tours in the South Island?
The South Island's guided tours provide strong safety networks for solo travelers. Companies like Contiki and G Adventures use established accommodations such as the Hokitika Beachfront Hotel and maintain clear safety protocols. Guides create buddy systems for activities while offering 24-hour support. The combination of professional oversight structured itineraries and well-vetted accommodations helps solo travelers focus on enjoying their experience.
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