Southern Scenic Route

The Southern Scenic Route is a spectacular road trip that winds through New Zealand's remote and rugged southwest, connecting the glaciers of Westland Tai Poutini National Park with the fiords of Fiordland National Park. This 450-kilometer journey offers ever-changing landscapes of rainforest, lakes, and coastline, with stops at charming small towns and natural wonders. It's a must-do for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers – Walk up to the terminal face or take a heli-hike for close-up views of these ancient ice rivers.
• Lake Matheson – Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, best seen at dawn or dusk.
• Ship Creek – A short boardwalk leads to a dramatic beach where the Tasman Sea meets the forest.
• Haast Pass – Drive through this scenic mountain pass, with stops at Thunder Creek Falls and the Blue Pools.
• Wanaka – A lakeside town offering outdoor activities, from hiking to wine tasting at nearby vineyards.
• Te Anau – Gateway to Fiordland, with glowworm caves and cruises on Lake Te Anau.
• Milford Sound – The route's grand finale: a stunning fiord with waterfalls, seals, and dolphins, best seen via boat cruise.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 3–5 days to drive the Southern Scenic Route at a relaxed pace. Start from Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, spend a night in Wanaka, then continue to Te Anau for a day before exploring Milford Sound. If you're short on time, prioritize the highlights between Fox Glacier and Wanaka, or Wanaka to Milford Sound. A self-drive itinerary gives you flexibility to stop for photo ops and short walks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – New Zealand's adventure capital, just a 2-hour drive from Wanaka, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and world-class dining.
• Catlins – A coastal area with waterfalls, petrified forest, and wildlife like yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions.
• Dunedin – A historic city with Scottish heritage, Otago Peninsula wildlife, and the famous Baldwin Street.
• Stewart Island – For a true wilderness escape, take a ferry from Bluff to this remote island for kiwi spotting and hiking.

Please check official sources for current details.