Marlborough Sounds is home to one of the Great Walks of New Zealand - the Queen Charlotte walking track. 

With its network of sunken river valleys, coves, beaches, and maze of peaks, you can see why it's truly unique to the South Island of New Zealand. Discover more about the Marlborough region by watching this short video. The video will show you the best of what the Queen Charlotte track has to offer you.  

 

The Queen Charlotte walking track is approximately 70km long and hiked in 3-5 days. Due to popularity, rooms at lodges sell out over the peak season. 

Our guided tours offer a completely supported experience with knowledgeable guides, luggage transport and comfortable accommodation to relax and unwind each night. We have a diverse range of walking and hiking trips available along the Queen Charlotte track. Below, is a map of the route most of our Queen Charlotte walking itineraries follow. 

But what trip would best suit you? The information in this article should help you choose the best Queen Charlotte trip for you.  

The Classic Queen Charlotte Walks

Queen Charlotte Guided Explorer

>> View the Walk here

• Guided 
• 5 days
• Grading: Introductory to moderate

Explore the full 70km track in a small group setting, completely supported by knowledgeable local guides and surrounded by the superb natural beauty of the Sounds.

Queen Charlotte Self-Guided Walk

>> View the Walk here

• Self-guided 
• 5 days
• Grading: Introductory to moderate

Hike the full track at your own pace over 5 days with just a day pack. Take your time to learn about the Maori legends, history, and landscape of the Marlborough region.

Queen Charlotte Extended Self-Guided Walk

>> View the Walk here

• Self-guided 
• 6 days
• Grading: Introductory to moderate

Similar to our previous walk, this extended walk includes a rest day on day 5 of our walking trip. This additional day will give you a chance to explore or rest your body after the exertions of the previous few days. Portage Bay provides an opportunity to kayak the Sounds and explore nearby coves, other cruises, and optional activities, or simply relax by the water reading your favourite book. 
 

The premium experience

Make the most of your Queen Charlotte tramping experience with our range of luxury walking tours. This is a premium walking experience that offers a nicer standard accommodation as you complete the entire track over 5-6 days. We've organised luxurious, waterfront lodges along this world-famous track, allowing you to completely unwind after a day's walk.

 

Best of Queen Charlotte in Comfort

>> View the Walk here

• Self-guided
• 5 days
• Grading: Introductory to moderate

Experience the best sections of the Queen Charlotte track. Unpack once whilst on the trails and stay at the beautiful Mahana Lodge and enjoy a specially designed Queen Charlotte experience. 

Queen Charlotte Walk in Comfort

>> View the Walk here

• Self-guided 
• 5 days
• Grading: Introductory to moderate

Queen Charlotte Extended Walk in Comfort

>> View the Walk here

• Self-guided 
• 6 days 
• Grading: Introductory to moderate 

Walk the Queen Charlotte track at your own pace with an additional day to slow down and take in the beauty of the Marlborough region. This extended experience includes premium accommodation at the Lochmara Lodge. Only accessible via water taxi, this secluded waterfront oasis gives you a chance to relax with a massage and soak in the twin baths at the bathhouse or If you're feeling more active, take out the kayaks or paddleboards. 

 

Extend your getaway 

Queen Charlotte and Abel Tasman Hike

>> View the Walk here

• Guided 
• 6 Days 
• Grading: Introductory 

Experience the best of both Great Walks of New Zealand on a 7-day guided tour. Take time to discover the Sounds from the water level via catamaran, water taxi, and ferry. 

Now, the only question to ask is... What Queen Charlotte trip are you going to do next?

You can view all Marlborough Walks here.