The popular Lake Dunstan trail lives up to expectations
Soak up the exceptional views on a bike tour of NZ
Enjoy a tour that encompasses some of the best biking in the region
Bike tour NZ's legendary rail trail
Explore a superb part of the South Island by bike

Lake Dunstan and Otago Central Rail Trail

Duration
5 days
Site savings
$16
From
$1,556 USD

Ride through an array of spectacular southern landscapes on a fully guided and supported trip taking in both the Lake Dunstan Trail and Otago Central Rail Trail. The adventure begins with a warm-up ride alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan before you have the option to ride through the dramatic Cromwell Gorge on the new Lake Dunstan Trail.

  • Category
    Trail Riding
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    5 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    1 - Beginner
  • Activity Level
    2 - Moderate
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Rugged
  • Distance
    118.1 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    23.6 miles
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Then you’re off on New Zealand’s first and most famous Great Ride - the Otago Rail Trail. Following the old Otago Central railway line from Clyde to Middlemarch, this iconic, multi-day ride takes in grand landscapes, charming towns, country hospitality and rich history. Enjoy easy riding in epic landscapes with big skies and go deep into history through tunnels, over bridges, along railways & riverside paths.

Try your hand at curling in Naseby and admire architectural gems in Clyde, Ophir, Ranfurly, Dunedin, Oamaru & beyond. Explore Oamaru’s atmospheric Victorian precinct and the epic Pacific Coast.

Expert guides will show you the best trailside highlights such as heritage sites, architectural gems, and vineyards. You’ll also enjoy delicious local food and drink, and friendly welcomes in accommodation full of character.

The Lake Dunstan & Otago Central Rail Trail is graded introductory. There is a mix of wide and narrow trails with a few undulating hills. The gorge section of the Lake Dunstan Trail on day one is optional as it is more difficult with some short hills, narrow track and tight corners. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and the tour operator suggests two hours of cycling per week for the three months leading up to your trip. They also recommend training on compacted gravel trails and completing a multi-day ride prior to your trip to get used to being in the saddle for long periods of time. The more training you have done on hills and on compacted gravel, the more enjoyable your trip will be.
   




Tour inclusions and exclusions at a glance:

What's included?
Items included in the cost of the tour

  • Accommodation
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats
  • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
  • Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
  • Curling at Naseby
  • Transport from Queenstown to Christchurch
  • Otago Rail Trail passport
  • Meals (as indicated in itinerary)
  • Visit to St Bathans to see the incredible Blue Lake
  • Marine wildllife cruise in the Otago harbor on the Sootychaser
  • Wine tasting at a Central Otago vineyard
  • Pre-departure Information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Rider fees paid to the Department of Conservation and Trail Trusts for ongoing maintenance and improvements
What's not included?
Items not included in the cost of the tour

  • International / Domestic flights
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Meals where not specified in the itinerary
  • All beverages, other than breakfast
  • Water bottle (help save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visas
  • Optional activities
  • Free bike rental is not included. Please see the available rental options below.

Tour options and upgrades:

3 equipment options available
1 tour add-on available