Southern Scenic Route | Te Anau to Riverton Itinerary

2 Days of Wild Freedom

This two-day journey along the Southern Scenic Route is for those who like their travel a little wilder. From cold plunges and jet boat rides to horseback treks and surf lessons, this itinerary is packed with Southland spirit. You'll meet locals, explore remote corners, and feel the pulse of the southern edge - rugged, real, and unforgettable.

Day 1 | Morning

Wake Up with a Splash

Kick off your journey with a cold plunge into Lake Manapouri; it's a Southland rite of passage. The water is crisp, clear, and invigorating, surrounded by Fiordland's towering peaks and quiet stillness. It's not just a swim; it's a full-body wake-up call from nature herself.

After drying off, head into Manapouri township for a strong Allpress coffee and a fresh cheese scone at Waiau Street Café. It’s a cosy, no-frills spot where the locals fuel up before a day outdoors.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Jet into the Wilderness

From here, the adventure ramps up. Wairaurahiri Jet takes you deep into Fiordland's wild heart across remote Lake Hauroko, down the roaring Wairaurahiri River, and through ancient forest that feels untouched by time. This six-hour experience is more than a thrill ride; it's a journey through World Heritage landscapes, guided by passionate locals who know every bend in the river.

Lunch is cooked over an open fire in the bush, think smoky sausages, fresh bread and stories, all shared under the canopy. It's the kind of meal that tastes better because of where you are.

Day 1 | Evening

Southern Hospitality in Tūatapere

Settle in for the night at Tui Base Camp or Last Light Lodge, both offer warm hospitality, hearty meals, and a cosy place to rest your head. Whether you're sharing stories with fellow travellers or enjoying a quiet moment by the fire, it's the perfect way to end the day.

As the sun dips low, roll into Tūatapere, a town with big skies and even bigger character. Stay at Tui Base Camp or Last Light Lodge, both offering warm beds, hearty meals, and the kind of welcome that makes you feel instantly at home.
Dinner is at the Waiau Town & Country Club, where the beer is cold, the meals are classic, and the locals are always keen for a yarn. It's Southland hospitality at its finest: relaxed, real, and full of heart.

Day 2 | Morning

Ride the Edge

Start your day with a coffee at Boundary Creek Gallery & Café, then saddle up for a three-hour horse trek with Orepuki Horse Treks.
Led by your host Elfi, you'll ride across rolling farmland, through windswept dunes, and along the wild Southern coastline. It's a journey that connects you to the land in a way only horseback travel can: slow, immersive, and unforgettable. The rhythm of the ride, the salt in the air, and the endless horizon make this one of the most freeing experiences on the route.

Day 2 | Afternoon

Sweet Treats & Surf Culture

After your ride, treat yourself to a legendary slice of carrot cake and coffee at Orepuki Beach Café, a local gem perched above the sea. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and every bite tastes better with salt in the air.

From here, roll into Aparima Riverton, our Riviera of the South. This coastal town is full of character: colourful cottages, windswept beaches, and a laid-back vibe that invites you to linger. Stop by Te Hikoi Museum, where the stories of whalers, settlers, and tangata whenua come to life. It's a compact but powerful glimpse into the region's rugged past and enduring spirit.

If you're travelling in summer, head to Riverton Rocks for a surf lesson with Southland Surf School. Whether you're catching your first wave or just paddling out, it's an experience that connects you to the raw energy of the southern ocean. The water might be brisk, but the thrill is pure Southland; wild, real, and unforgettable.

Day 2 | Evening

Sunset & Seaside Fare

As the day winds down, settle into La Riviera Guesthouse, a charming seaside retreat tucked along Riverton's quiet coastline. With its warm interiors, ocean views, and relaxed vibe, it's the kind of place where you can kick off your boots, breathe in the salt air, and let the day's adventures sink in.

For dinner, head to the Riverton Beachhouse Restaurant, where the menu is a celebration of Southland's seasonal bounty. Fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and flavours that speak of the coast, all served with a view that stretches across the bay. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden light over the water, you'll find yourself slowing down, savouring every bite, and soaking in the moment.

It’s the perfect end to two days of wild freedom, a journey that leaves you grounded, energised, and deeply connected to the southern edge. The kind of trip that lingers long after you've left the coast behind.