Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tours
Embark unforgettable adventures with the Sir Edmund Hillary Train Tours, journeys inspired by one of the world’s greatest explorers.
The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer combines scenic rail travel and luxury coach touring to showcase the very best of New Zealand’s majestic South Island. Honouring the spirit of adventure that Sir Edmund Hillary embodied, these tours invite you to discover dramatic alpine landscapes, sparkling lakes, and postcard-perfect vistas in true New Zealand style. Every moment of your journey pays homage to his legacy, offering you not just a holiday, but an experience of a lifetime.
View our tour selection below or contact us to find out more about pricing and departures.
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Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Autumn 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
11 Days | NZ$6,995
Tour Type: Escorted
Join the unique 11 day Autumn tour! Highlights include the Mountaineer train to Arthur’s Pass, TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak, Kingston Flyer, Taieri Gorge train and a two night stay at the Hermitage in Aoraki Mount Cook.
Enquire NowSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour 2026/2027
Departure From: Christchurch
11 or 14 Days | from NZ$7,495
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
This epic journey circumnavigates New Zealand’s South Island, combining luxury coach travel with six remarkable rail experiences, including heritage steam – inspired by New Zealand’s most celebrated explorer.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle Tour with Peter Hillary
Departure From: Christchurch
16 Days | NZ$24,995
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Pinnacle Tour is an exclusive 15-day luxury journey through New Zealand’s South Island, hosted by Peter Hillary and reserved for a select group of discerning travellers.
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Winter 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
12 Days | from NZ$7,995
Tour Type: Escorted
Taking inspiration from one of the world’s most celebrated explorers, this Winter Edition offers NZ’s best rail adventure tour with snow on top!
View TourSir Edmund Hillary Explorer Tour Summer 2026
Departure From: Christchurch
13 Days | NZ$8,495 - FREE Cable Car Ride*
Tour Type: Escorted Tour
Inspired by one of the most iconic adventurers of our time, this is an epic journey by heritage steam train and luxury coach. FREE Wellington Cable Car trip when you book with LOCO Journeys.
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New Zealand’s ‘Best’ South Island Tour?
If you’re searching for the ultimate South Island rail tour, look no further than the Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Train Tour—a journey that combines New Zealand’s most iconic rail experiences with breathtaking landscapes, world-class activities, and premium accommodation.
Why Book with LOCO Journeys?
When you book with LOCO Journeys, you’re choosing a trusted, specialist team who turn complex travel arrangements into smooth, memorable holidays.
From the moment you enquire to the day you return home, you’ll experience a level of personal service that makes every step of your rail journey effortless. Only LOCO Journeys offers a complete travel service.
Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Reviews
The Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Rail Tour series has become one of New Zealand’s most celebrated and talked-about rail touring experiences, and for good reason.
Operating regular departures right throughout the year, this extraordinary rail and luxury coach journey showcases the majesty of the South Island in every season. Discover why the Sir Edmund Hillary train tours are so highly rated.
Your Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer Adventure Starts Here…
See your journey come to life.
Take a moment to watch our short video and discover why the Sir Edmund Hillary Tour is more than a train trip — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience through New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
LOCO Journeys is proud to be celebrating 10 years of Adventurous Journeys by Rail | 2014-2024