North America Hiking & Adventure Tours

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Explore world-renowned national parks on our North America hiking and adventure tours.

We've partnered with Austin Adventures, a world-class company located in Montana, to bring you these incredible North America adventure tours. Add in our signature New Zealand touch of inspired, thoughtful service, and you'll discover parts of the USA you've never even heard of. You'll be blown away by the array of unique landscapes and natural wonders we'll explore. From hiking along the intimate waterfalls of The Narrows in Zion National Park, biking under towering red sandstone cliffs in Bryce Canyon, taking a dip in hidden swimming holes and witnessing the fascinating geothermal features of Yellowstone National Park, you'll be left in awe at the natural splendours of these breathtaking regions. We don't stop there, though. We'll also explore the San Juan Islands, Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska and the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina. These USA hiking tours will get you well off the beaten path via hiking, biking and kayaking. You'll feel like a first explorer as you discover some of the best hiking trails in the United States.

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What Our Guests Say

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Ultimate North Island Adventure

Ronald H

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend!

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We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did.…

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

R | October 7200

Great Walks of New Zealand

Margaret M

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great.

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Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The…

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great. read less

4.7 Stars (128 reviews)

M | January 1970

New Zealand Walking Adventure

Don K

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country.

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This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We…

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country. read less

4.8 Stars (387 reviews)

D | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Keith S

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better.

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My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and…

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better. read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

K | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Jennie C

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Jennifer K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Andrea L

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities.

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This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been…

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities. read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

A | January 1970

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Gurameen C

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience.

read more

Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with…

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience. read less

4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)

G | January 1970

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Donald H

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)

D | January 1970

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

Robert P

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning

read more

Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were…

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning read less

4.7 Stars (1139 reviews)

R | October 9600

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Barbara F

"I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- from the basics of setting up a trip to the crazy
tour shifting in March 2020 to changing our 2023 trip to 2024. And our just completed Ultimate North Island Adventure continued to surpass all
that. Our guides, Braden and Katie, were exceptional in every way, going the extra mile to make our trip special and accommodating the varying abilities and desires of the group. There was always a good alternative if you weren't up to the main activity, and their "home town" knowledge added a special personal touch to the tour. They looked out for me and my bum knee, always making sure that things were OK, and finding ways of making it work. And I won't even start on the wonderful food- absolutely amazing, especially the guide prepared spreads with all the NZ specialties! The highest kudos and deepest thanks for their tireless efforts.

read more

I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- …

"I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- from the basics of setting up a trip to the crazy
tour shifting in March 2020 to changing our 2023 trip to 2024. And our just completed Ultimate North Island Adventure continued to surpass all
that. Our guides, Braden and Katie, were exceptional in every way, going the extra mile to make our trip special and accommodating the varying abilities and desires of the group. There was always a good alternative if you weren't up to the main activity, and their "home town" knowledge added a special personal touch to the tour. They looked out for me and my bum knee, always making sure that things were OK, and finding ways of making it work. And I won't even start on the wonderful food- absolutely amazing, especially the guide prepared spreads with all the NZ specialties! The highest kudos and deepest thanks for their tireless efforts. read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

B | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Wendy W

"I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip because I was traveling solo through NZ and thought Active Adventures would help get me to places I couldn't get myself. Over the ten days, there was not a moment I questioned my choice. Our guides -- Katie and Branden -- were all about generosity of spirit, pride, and knowledge about the country they lovingly call home. Every activity, accommodation, and meal was seamlessly organized and full of joy -- and in some cases mischievous surprises. There was even laughter on the long bus rides. What I really appreciated the most about the trip was the flexibility and thoughtfulness. I never felt like the "extra" as a single traveler and I, or any other of my fellow trip mates, wanted to change up our day or try something different, the answer was always "yes". Should you join an Active Adventure trip? My answer will always be "yes"!

read more

I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip…

"I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip because I was traveling solo through NZ and thought Active Adventures would help get me to places I couldn't get myself. Over the ten days, there was not a moment I questioned my choice. Our guides -- Katie and Branden -- were all about generosity of spirit, pride, and knowledge about the country they lovingly call home. Every activity, accommodation, and meal was seamlessly organized and full of joy -- and in some cases mischievous surprises. There was even laughter on the long bus rides. What I really appreciated the most about the trip was the flexibility and thoughtfulness. I never felt like the "extra" as a single traveler and I, or any other of my fellow trip mates, wanted to change up our day or try something different, the answer was always "yes". Should you join an Active Adventure trip? My answer will always be "yes"! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

W | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Tim B

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

T | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Julie K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

J | January 1970

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

David W

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding

read more

From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group…

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding read less

4.7 Stars (1139 reviews)

D | January 1970

ACT Square Deal Posts 5

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance - you can find details here.

*Terms & conditions apply – read more here

 

Safe travel v3

Keeping you Safe: COVID-19 Safety Measures

We believe our small group, off-the-beaten-track adventures are the safest way to travel. To keep you, your fellow travellers, our guides and the communities we travel in safe, all adults over the age of 12 (i.e. 13 years and above) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

To keep you healthy during your trip, we follow all ATTA, WTTC, Qualmark and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) health and safety guidelines, as acknowledged by their stamps.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I bring with me on the first day?

When you speak with your guides the night before your trip, they will give you a detailed description of what to bring with you on Day 1. Typically, this includes a day pack with your rain jacket, sunglasses, hat, camera, etc. Anything you want easy access to during the day should go in your day pack as the rest of your luggage will go in the locked cargo trailer pulled behind the van. Your guides will provide you with a water bottle on the first morning of your trip and will always have water available for refills. There will be snacks available at all times in the van. Your guides will also have bug spray and sunscreen accessible for you to use.

Will I have contact with my guides before the trip starts?

Your guides will call your cell phone the night before your trip begins to touch base on the first day’s plan. If they don’t get through to you, they will leave a voicemail on your cell phone with all the details you need to plan for your first morning.

What are your recommended guide gratuity guidelines?

You will have 2-3 guides on your Austin Adventure (depending on group size). We recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. Typically, gratuities are offered by check or cash in local currency on the final morning of the trip and can either be given to each guide individually or to one guide to be equally distributed. Most of our guides these days also accept gratuities via Venmo (please note this app does not work in Canada). All dining, housekeeping and activity tips are included in your trip price.

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Austin Adventures traveler, it’s highly recommended you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of travel delays, missed connections, medical expenses or injury, or lost baggage for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Protection page for more in-depth information and our recommended insurance provider.

What's included on your North America trips?

Accommodation

We've spent years finding places to stay that are quaint, perfectly-located, and comfortable when we take you to the most amazing parts of North America. We offer a wide variety of accommodations on our trips ranging from locally run inns and first-class hotels to resorts, dude ranches and historic national park cabins. Accommodations are selected for their location, unique charm and history, and offer a true feel for the region. We strongly believe in the value of a good night's sleep and our accommodation reflects this. We also like to have somewhere comfortable to relax after the day's activities.

Transport

We're really focused on ensuring that we spend as little time as possible sitting in vehicles, and that we optimise your vacation for adventuring in the great outdoors. Our average driving time is just over two hours a day, and we make plenty of stops for bathroom breaks and sightseeing along the way. We use modern, comfortable 15-passenger vans for all of our transfers and a second van is added to most departures to provide more flexibility and more room to spread out while seeing the sights! Make no mistake - our trips are not typical bus tour vacation packages! Picture more of a road trip with family complete with good music, tasty snacks, and plenty of guide-supplied fun facts along the way to keep you entertained!

Meals

Just about all your meals are included when you travel with Austin Adventures in North America. We provide a wide variety of cuisine - breakfasts are typically eaten at your hotel on your own time in the morning before meeting up with the group. Lunches feature everything from elaborate picnics to roadside cafes to sandwiches trailside. Dinners are usually eaten at our hotel's dining room or a local restaurant with plenty of options to choose from. We easily cater to vegetarians, picky kids, and people with particular dietary needs. All our guides have food safety certificates and are well-practiced in the art of food prep and serving while on-the-move. You'll find the meals are a real highlight of your trip!

All Guiding Services

Each trip features two or three incredible guides and our average guest to guide ratio is 6:1. Our guests are often drawn to North America by the beautiful scenic landscapes, promise of wilderness and clean air - and there's no doubt you'll find all that, though what you may not be expecting is to forge real, genuine friendships with your fellow tripmates, including our wonderful guides. They're hands-down the BEST guides you'll ever come across.

Activities

Any activity described in our itinerary, such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding, kayaking and biking, are included in your trip cost. Our itineraries are pretty jam-packed to maximize our time spent exploring in these amazing places, and your guides will make it clear if there are additional activities available (at your expense).

How many people are there on each of our North America trips?

We generally take up to 18 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

Our adult-only departures require a minimum age of 16 years and our family departures require a minimum age of 6 years to join (7 years on our Alaska Family Adventure) and are a great way to meet other like-minded families who like to get outside.
Please note child rates apply to children 12 years and under.

Do you charge a forced single supplement if I'm a solo traveller?

We welcome many solo travelers on our trips – in fact, we get so many solo travelers and they always say it’s a great way to travel alone, but not actually by themselves. You’ll have an incredible adventure sharing your experiences with other like-minded travelers, and the best part is we don't charge extra for solo travelers, providing you don’t mind sharing a room. However, for bookings within 90 days of your chosen departure, a forced single supplement will apply if there is no other guest of the same gender already booked to share with.

If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room, if one is available.

If I book a trip with my children, will I be sharing a room with them?

Active Adventures & Austin Adventures family vacations are naturally about spending time with family and as such, most families opt to share rooms on our trips. At time of booking, families consisting of four guests with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at the guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

What if I need a special diet?

We’re accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • pescatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no pork (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)
  • picky kids (send us a list of what your child will eat and we'll make sure to have it!)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in your travel wallet. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online travel wallet.

How much luggage can I bring on the North America trips?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get cash?

You'll be able to find a reliable ATM once you arrive to start your trip, within the township or at the airport you land in, as national park ATM locations are sparse at best. Aside from tips for your guides, you could bring $200 and go home with change though some people like to bring some cash to cover a round of drinks, a few souvenirs, and dinner on "night on your own", although you could just as easily use a credit card for these purchases too.

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