Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail

4 Days | Jump in the saddle and follow the Central Otago Rail Trail through an unforgettable landscape

5 out of 5 based on 38 reviews submitted.
Cycling
From
GBP £821
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It’s almost like New Zealand was made for cycling. This is a land known for its natural beauty, welcoming people and delicious wine, and this cycling trip just happens to take in the best of it. Kick things off in the outdoor paradise of Queenstown, then cycle the famous Central Otago Rail Trail through small gold-mining towns like Alexandra, Omakau, Wedderburn and Hyde. Meander through the open plains with pristine rivers, enjoy some proper South Island hospitality at local taverns, and rediscover the joy of pedalling through one of the most gorgeous areas in the entire country.

Trip overview

Map of Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail including New Zealand
Start
Queenstown, New Zealand
Finish
Queenstown, New Zealand
Theme
Cycling
Destinations
New Zealand
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
PHXC
This trip generates 13.87 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Cycle the spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail, the oldest rail trail in the country and voted 'New Zealand's Favourite Ride' for the past two years.
  • Ring along flat, traffic-free paths alongside some of the South Island's most stunning scenery.
  • Begin your journey in Queenstown, an outdoor paradise set among the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand.
  • Experience firsthand the famous hospitality of New Zealanders on a trail built specifically to cater to cyclists.
  • Cycle in the company of an experienced guide as they share their unique perspective of this fascinating region.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

Is this trip right for you?
  • Accommodation on the Otago Rail Trail can be booked out months in advance so there may be occasions where we stay in nearby locations to those advertised.
  • This itinerary does not have a full-time support vehicle constantly following the group. Your luggage is always transported for you (by vehicle) between accommodations.
  • Due to the relatively small distances cycled on this trip, we have a single leader that rides with the group.

Itinerary

Map of Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail including New Zealand

Inclusions

Meals

3 breakfasts

Transport

Bicycle, minivan (e-bike available, subject to availability)

Accommodation

Hotel/Guesthouse (3 nights)

Activities
  • Guided bike ride - Otago Rail Trail
  • Otago Rail Trail - 4 days Otago Central Rail Trail bike hire
  • Transfer to Queenstown
Add on activities
  • Jet boating - NZD135
  • Bungy Jumping - NZD205
  • Queenstown - Skyline Gondola from - NZD52
  • Side trip to Naseby - NZD30
  • Naseby Indoor Curling Rink - NZD40

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. It is vital that you provide us with your height at least 30 days prior to your trip starting so we can ensure the correct sized bike for you. If we do not have your height we cannot guarantee a bike that fits you perfectly. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price
2. This trip starts at 8am and finishes on arrival back to Queenstown on Day 4 (approx 5pm)
3. To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
4. Bicycle helmets are compulsory on this trip. Please bring your own helmet.
5. On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group.
6. This trip does not have a support vehicle but your luggage is transported for you from accommodation to accommodation each day.
7. Luggage is limited to 1 bag per client, no heavier than 15kgs. Fees may apply if baggage limit is exceeded.
8. Our riding is done mostly on a well-graded and maintained gravel cycle path, so there are no technical cycling skills required.
9. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are on an 'on request' basis only - it is important to advise us o your height at the time of request.. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
10. If you are bringing your own bike please advise us at the time of booking so we can ensure the correct 'on-ground' transport arrangements.
11. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 1 (Guesthouse) and Day 2 (Cottage) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
12. For departures starting on 17 Nov 2023 and 9th Feb 2023 the group will stay overnight in Waipiata instead of Wedderburn. You will be transported to Waipiata on day 2 then back to Wedderburn to commence the ride on Day 3 as originally planned.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

5 out of 5 based on 38 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

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ann · Traveled April 2023
I can thoroughy recommend this trip. A mixture of easy riding on excellent bikes, well maintained tracks, beautiful countryside, dramatic mountains, and sheep! Our guide Griff made the trip so enjoyable with his friendly easy going personality and knowledge. New Zealand is a beautiful country and this trip is not a bad way to experience it.
Review submitted 04 May 2023

Lynne · Traveled April 2023
My partner and I recently cycled the Otago Rail Trail in NZ. We had a great time -the cycling was fun and scenery is magnificent. Griff, our tour guide and lead is a real pro - experienced, knowledgeable, friendly, fun and brought the group together in a way that felt like we were all old friends. He really did 'make' the trip for us. Thanks Griff - we had a ball.
Review submitted 04 May 2023

Lana · Traveled April 2023
This was an awesome cycling trip that showcased the best of the region's scenery, food and people. Griff was an amazing guide who shared his enthusiasm and knowledge of the region in a very fun way. A great opportunity to enjoy an outdoors holiday with likeminded people.
Review submitted 20 Apr 2023

Jaqui · Traveled April 2023
I cannot speak highly enough of this trip. Intrepid's organisation, Griff our group guide, the excellent bikes themselves, the local pubs along the way, all provided an incredibly fun experience on the Central Otago Bike Trail. The track itself goes through the most stunning country and was easily manageable for the different abilities in our group. Would highly recommend and will be signing up for another Intrepid adventure. Thank you!
Review submitted 12 Apr 2023

Alisa · Traveled April 2023
4 days of cycling and the smile has not left my face. Never thought that I’d be back on a bike after 20 years and manage 150 kms. Absolutely the best way to explore a country. Now to find the next cycling tour. Thanks Intrepid!
Review submitted 11 Apr 2023
Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail
From
GBP £821