Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour 2026/2027

Inspired by one of the greatest adventurers of our time, the Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour invites you on an unforgettable 11 or 14 day journey by rail and luxury coach through the majestic South Island of New Zealand.

Sir Edmund Hillary embodied the true spirit of New Zealand adventure, and his legacy inspires every detail of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. On the Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour, you’ll learn more about his remarkable achievements and humanitarian efforts, while immersing yourself in the postcard-perfect landscapes and dramatic alpine scenery that make this part of the world so renowned.

Your journey begins in Christchurch, crossing the mighty Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass to the rugged West Coast. From there, travel south to Franz Josef Glacier and vibrant Queenstown, before venturing into the awe-inspiring wilderness of Milford Sound. Continue east to the historic city of Dunedin, then journey back through the spectacular landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook. From Christchurch, for those on the 14 day tour, the adventure carries you on northward to Kaikōura, renowned for its abundant marine life, and on to the world-famous Marlborough wine region, before returning to Christchurch where your epic expedition comes to an end.

The Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour is more than a holiday — it’s a celebration of exploration, discovery, and the enduring spirit of adventure. Our expert team help craft you an unforgettable holiday in our full range of Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tours.

“Adventure for the sake of a dream, for the pleasure of searching”

Sir Edmund Hillary

Learn more about the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour destinations in our guide.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour by Rail & Luxury Coach.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer tour includes Hillary’s life highlights including travelling through Marlborough, where Edmund was trained for the air force during the Second World War and where he made some daring ascents of Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku. In Christchurch, learn more about his team’s expedition crossing Antarctica using converted farm tractors at the International Antarctic Centre. At Aoraki/Mt Cook, a visit to the museum dedicated to Edmund’s adventurous spirit and his achievements is a must. A special dinner is hosted there by a Hillary family member. Find out how they continue to keep their father’s memory alive.

The first week of your journeys leads you on a circuit of the Sir Edmund Hillary tour’s South Island highlights, enjoying experiences such as the TranzAlpine train, the West Coast Glaciers, and the wonders of Queenstown, Te Anau and Milford Sound. You will cruise on the steamship TSS Earnslaw and ride on the Kingston Flyer. Onward to Dunedin where you will enjoy another iconic rail journey, The Tiaeri Gorge, an epic rail trip over white water rapids, towering viaducts and tunnels.

Mountain country then beckons and you will enjoy a two night stay at the prestigious Hermitage Hotel overlooking Aoraki/Mount Cook and a visit to the excellent Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

We return back to Christchurch where those on the 11 day door will to join enjoy a farewell meal. For those on the 14 day itinerary, you will join the Coastal Pacific scenic train, one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand’s railways. Throughout this scenic experience, you will meander along the Pacific coast across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty to Kaikoura.

Kaikoura will be your home for two nights at the modern waterside Sudima hotel. From this base you will through to Marlborough, we board the Coastal Pacific again departing Kaikoura’s dramatic mountain backdrops onwards to the Marlborough wine region. The coastal route heads inland, crossing the historic railroad bridge at Seddon and bursting out to the Awatere Valley, then through the Dashwood Pass to Blenheim. We visit the Oamaka Aviation museum before returning to Kaikoura by luxury coach.

The final day of the 14 day itinerary will include a visit to the scenic Weka Pass railway and a journey back to Christchurch.

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Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour Highlights

• TranzAlpine Rail Journey – A world-renowned train ride through alpine peaks and deep valleys.
• Taieri Gorge Railway – Traverse spectacular canyons and viaducts on this historic rail line.
• Visit Pounamu Pathway – an immersive visitor experience highlighting the rich Maori Culture
• TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Homestead – Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship to a historic high-country estate.
• Kingston Flyer – Ride a lovingly restored New Zealand steam locomotive from a bygone era.
• Milford Sound Cruise – Sail beneath soaring cliffs and cascading waterfalls in Fiordland.
• Takahe Sanctuary – Encounter New Zealand’s rare and iconic native bird.
• Ride the Mainlander – a exclusive charter train that will weave through Southland scenery.
• Visit Aoraki Mount Cook – New Zealand’s highest peak
• Exclusive guest Speaker from the Hillary Family – Hear personal stories of Sir Edmund Hillary’s remarkable legacy.
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre – Celebrate adventure at the foot of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
  
  For the 14 day itinerary, you will also enjoy:
• International Antarctic Centre – Experience the thrill of Antarctic life in interactive style.
• Coastal Pacific Scenic Train – Glide along a dazzling coastline where mountains meet the sea.
• Enjoy two nights in Kaikoura – a marine life paradise
• Take in Marlborough wine tasting at highly rated vineyards
• Visit the Weka Pass Railway – a scenic heritage railway
  

Learn more in this post about the highlights of the Sir Edmund Hillary Train Tour

Heritage Rail Highlights & the ‘Super Six’ of the South Island

New Zealand’s South Island is home to some of the world’s most remarkable rail experiences — journeys that combine breathtaking scenery, rich history, and timeless charm. From iconic alpine crossings to lovingly restored steam locomotives, these six railways capture the very essence of luxury travel and heritage adventure and are included visits for your Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour.

The TranzAlpine

The fabled TranzAlpine passenger train offers an unforgettable journey from Christchurch to Greymouth, widely celebrated as one of the world’s most spectacular rail experiences. Travel in comfort through the patchwork fields of the Canterbury Plains, cross soaring viaducts, and wind through the dramatic Southern Alps before descending into lush West Coast rainforest. This is the ultimate showcase of New Zealand’s alpine landscapes, all from the comfort of your panoramic carriage.

The Kingston Flyer

Step back into the golden age of rail aboard the historic Kingston Flyer steam train. Lovingly restored, this vintage locomotive captures the romance of 19th-century travel as it journeys through rolling farmland and along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The experience includes a chance to admire the beautifully maintained carriages and the atmospheric puff of steam that makes this iconic train a living piece of New Zealand heritage.

The Mainlander Train

The Mainlander is an exclusive charter train, reserved solely for guests of the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour. Travelling from Invercargill through Dunedin to Oamaru, it revives a classic route once served by New Zealand’s great intercity expresses, bringing back the romance of rail to the South Island’s deep south. Along the way, guests are treated to sweeping coastal views, rolling farmland, and historic townships — landscapes rarely experienced by passenger train today. Purpose-operated for this journey, the Mainlander combines comfort with nostalgia, offering a unique opportunity to travel a storied rail line in a way that blends history, scenery, and indulgence.

The Taieri Gorge Railway

Departing from the resplendent Dunedin Railway Station — a masterpiece of Edwardian architecture — the Taieri Gorge Railway is Otago’s most scenic rail journey. Traversing spectacular viaducts, narrow tunnels, and steep ravines, this route offers breathtaking views of rugged, untouched landscapes that are otherwise inaccessible. The journey blends engineering marvels with natural splendour, making it a highlight of South Island rail travel.

Weka Pass Railway

The Weka Pass Railway is a heritage rail experience in North Canterbury, running vintage locomotives through the rugged limestone hills, open farmland, and rolling valleys of the scenic Weka Pass. Operated by passionate volunteers, this historic journey offers a nostalgic glimpse into New Zealand’s rail past, with beautifully restored carriages and breathtaking countryside views along the way. This rail journey is not included in the 11 day itinerary.

The Coastal Pacific

The Coastal Pacific offers one of the most scenic rail journeys in the Southern Hemisphere, travelling from Christchurch to Picton along a breathtaking stretch of coastline. On one side, the Kaikōura Ranges rise sharply from the land, while on the other, the Pacific Ocean sparkles just metres from the tracks. The journey includes panoramic viewing from spacious carriages, and often the chance to spot dolphins or seals basking along the rugged shore. This is rail travel at its most picturesque and serene. This Great New Zealand rail journey is not included in the 11 day itinerary but is an optional extra which LOCO Journeys will gladly book for you.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour Optional Excursions

Before and after your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to enhance your journey with additional nights of pre- or post-tour accommodation, guided city sightseeing tours, or other highly rated activities. Our expert team is here to guide and advise you, helping you choose the best options to suit your interests, budget, and available time.

Akaroa Day Tour – Discover the charm of Akaroa, a picturesque French-inspired harbour town just a short drive from Christchurch. This full-day tour takes you through the stunning scenery of Banks Peninsula, with its rolling hills and coastal vistas. Once in Akaroa, enjoy time to explore boutique shops and galleries, savour local cuisine, and perhaps join a harbour cruise to see the rare Hector’s dolphins. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of coastal beauty and culture to your New Zealand journey.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour – Discover the beauty of the ‘Garden City’ and Christchurch Botanic Gardens aboard an electric caterpillar shuttle. Sit back and relax as your guide shares fascinating stories about the gardens’ history, native and exotic plants, and the significance of this green heart of the city. It’s a comfortable and informative way to experience one of Christchurch’s most treasured landmarks.

Northern Explorer Train Package – Once your Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour concludes, why not extend the adventure with another legendary journey? Experience the epic Northern Explorer, New Zealand’s longest and most adventurous rail ride, taking you from Wellington to Auckland in just one unforgettable day. At the time of booking, simply let us know your plans. LOCO Journeys can seamlessly arrange a flight to Wellington, a relaxing overnight stay in New Zealand’s “cool little capital,” and then set you off on this iconic rail experience. LOCO Journeys will include

• Additional nights at your Wellington as required depending on the North Explorer timetable
• LOCO Journeys will add a FREE Wellington Cable Car ride
• A journey on the Northern Explorer in Scenic Plus, New Zealand’s most epic train journey traversing 681km from Wellington to Auckland.
• Auckland accommodation of your choice
• Time-allowing, LOCO Journeys can add day excursions from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves or Rotorua.
• Airport Transfers from down-town Auckland to the airport.

Ask at the time of booking for the full list of train journeys and additional Sir Edmund Hillary Tour activities you can include.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour Dates

Prices are based on per person sharing. Single supplements apply to all tour prices, rates shown below.

Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour 2026 and 2027 Departures

Christchurch to Christchurch, 11 days, 12 nights including10 cooked breakfasts, 7 sumptuous dinners, 8 lunches including a Gourmet BBQ lunch. Or Christchurch to Christchurch, 14 days, 13 nights including 12 cooked breakfasts, 10 sumptuous dinners, 9 lunches including a Gourmet BBQ lunch.

The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer rail tour series was recently voted as a World Travel Award Winner. Click Here for the full range of Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tours

Please see below for a detailed itinerary and booking conditions.

For a detailed brochure dedicated to the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour contact us and we are happy to email this to you. LOCO Journeys can offer you pre-tour and post-tour departure activities, flights and accommodation.

LOCO Journeys offers New Zealand’s largest range of rail tour options of all types and styles matching budget and duration to your needs. Click here for alternate New Zealand scenic train and railfan tours.