Ride the iconic Otago Rail Trail on the South Island of NZ
At the end of the tour, journey to Dunedin on this spectacular journey
Discover the historic rail trail by bike
Enjoy making new friends or perhaps touring with old ones
Journey along a wonderful rail trail and experience exceptional rural sights

Otago Rail Trail Classic

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

Cycle the dedicated cycle trails of NZ's original great ride with a 5 day bicycle tour on the Otago Rail Trail. Experience the full breadth and depth of New Zealand’s iconic rail trail on this fully guided and supported trip. You’ll enjoy easy riding on this trail created especially for cyclists, walkers and horses. Go deep into history through tunnels, over bridges, along railways & riverside paths. Savor delicious local wine & food, and stay in great accommodation. Journey back in time on the Taieri Gorge Railway and experience the local 'southern hospitality' of Central Otago.

  • Category
    Solo
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    5 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    2 - Novice
  • Activity Level
    2 - Moderate
  • Elevation
    2 - Moderate
  • Terrain
    Mixed
  • Distance
    131.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    26.1 miles
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5.0
Awesome
from 14 reviews
Accommodation
5.0
Bikes
5.0
Communication
5.0
Meals
5.0
Route
5.0
Scenery
5.0
Service
5.0
Value
5.0
Overall Rating:

Roslyn S
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

We were welcomed, always informed of each days happenings, given confidence and support, nothing was too much trouble, accommodation excellent and the group was friendly.Had a great time.


Overall Rating:

Philippa M
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

We did the rail trail as a family (9 & 11 y.o kids) and all thoroughly enjoyed it. We were greeted by friendly staff (Sue & Howie) who guided us through a week of riding & other activities. They looked after us each step of the way, providing interesting facts, funny stories and all the support and snacks we could need when riding each day. The scenery on this trail is magnificent, there were so many photo opportunities! The trail is very well maintained and there are stops with information about the area along the way. There were so many highlights - the tunnels, bridges, wildflowers, braided rivers, fields and views that just went on and on. We loved it, and the team at [the tour operator] made the trip stress free and a really fun holiday experience.


Overall Rating:

Jack C
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

The trip was excellent. The two guides, Sue and Howie, were friendly, professional and helpful at every stage. The equipment was in good condition and the whole trip passed without a problem. I would particularly like to praise the highly professional manner that Sue dealt with the obnoxious oaf who runs the hotel/café in Hyde who, with his wife, abused us for some imagined transgression. Sue was at all times calm and reasonable and I was very impressed by her.


Overall Rating:

Samuel D
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Sue and Howie were absolutely fantastic guides, with no request to big or little. The tour group was very diverse in ages however we really bonded over the 5 days on the trip. The places we stayed at were all interesting and had personality, especially in Clyde in our historic hotel. We wanted to push ourselves out of our comfort zone and do a more active holiday. Also to see more of NZ and in a way most people don't see from a car or tour bus.The bikes were well maintained and great to ride. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and being comfortable with riding off road - practising on tarmac won't do.

Overall Rating:

Josie H
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Warm, capable guides. Super professional but also great people-people. The organization was impeccable and overall the experience was better than expected. Loved the company, the scenery, the cycling challenge and all the other interesting side bits. So many amazing autumn views.


Overall Rating:

Blythe M
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

This was an amazing experience! The Otago Rail Trail through Adventure South NZ would be the only way I would ever want to experience and enjoy the country. Louise and Wanda are the most fantastic guides, they answered our relentless questions easily, positively and always providing the best information. They generally spoiled us rotten at every interaction and were fabulous 'hosts'.

Overall Rating:

Tim K (14)
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

I loved the fact that you weren't pressured into doing things you couldn't do. Our guides Rachel and Dave were there supporting and assisting when needed and were friendly and welcoming. By the end of the first day all of our group, including guides had developed a close friendship which improved the already incredible trip. The accommodation you stay in is amazing and comfortable and the food we had was great.

Overall Rating:

Rowena and Rob D
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Enjoyed a variety of accommodation or meeting real locals. Doing it with our fab guides Rachel and Dave definitely added to our enjoyment of the trip as did the rest of our group. Every detail was looked after. Would recommend when training to take into account the difference riding on gravel makes.

Overall Rating:

Harsha Roya
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

I had a fantastic experience with Dave and Rachel. The trail itself was a great adventure but it wouldn't have been as lovely without the warmth and knowledge of our two guides. The accommodations were quaint and overall well maintained. Two thumbs up for this trip!

Overall Rating:

Ross and Robyn G
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Very well organized instructions from the guides were always very clear and they managed our group well. All accommodation was of a high standard and the meals were great. The additional sightseeing added to the experience of the trip.

Overall Rating:

George & Fiona
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Fantastic guides able to groom the adventure to suit the needs of everyone without anyone feeling uncomfortable. Perfectly planned distances that allowed time for everyone to enjoy everything. Varied accommodation that was pleasant accompanied with great meals of varying styles. Overall, a great experience two older travelers with no biking experience would not hesitate to recommend!

Overall Rating:

Susan P
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

The guides were outstanding and went above and beyond. No hesitation in recommending this trip to others.

Overall Rating:

Andrea Wittick
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Being able to participate in an activity I thought was beyond me! Thanks to the confidence I felt having an E-bike. Having Sue as our guide. Countryside. Thoroughly enjoyed small group experience with like minded people.

Overall Rating:

Trace
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Had a fantastic time. Really enjoyed the cycling adventure, the people I met and the places all experienced. The trip was well facilitated by Sue and Alice who did a superb job working constantly to ensure not just a smooth operation but a fun and interactive one. Cycling was at times more challenging than expected and other times very pleasurable and scenic. Food and accom mostly excellent except for accom in Dunedin. Recommend a massage on last day!