Itinerary
Day 0 – Your equipment and food will be dropped off at your accommodation in Te Anau
Day 1 – Kepler Track Car Park to Luxmore Hut
(Approx. 5 to 6 hours/13.8km)
A shuttle bus will take you from Te Anau this morning to The Kepler Track car park and the start of your walk, starting this morning with a pleasant walk around Lake Te Anau to Brod Bay. From here, ascend through mountain and beech forests to Luxmore Hut, just above the tree line with stunning views over Lake Te Anau far below. Be sure to visit the nearby Luxmore Caves.
Day 2 – Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut
(Approx. 5 to 6 hours/14.6km)
The track climbs gradually from the hut to a ridge just below the summit of Mount Luxmore. Be sure to take the 10 minute side trip to the summit of Mount Luxmore providing excellent views. Continue along the stunning alpine track and then descend through a series of zigzags into a hanging valley to Iris Burn Hut.
Day 3 – Iris Burn Hut to Rainbow Reach/Te Anau
(Approx. 6.5 to 8 hours/22.2 km)
A steady hike today down through beech forest, riverside clearings and a gorge. Nearing Lake Manapouri, the track meanders through lowland beech and podocarp forest. It follows the lake shore to Moturau Hut, situated beside a beautiful beach, with panoramic views of Lake Manapouri. From here it is a gentle stroll through beech forest to the swing bridge at Rainbow Reach to finish your walk. A shuttle service will take you from here back to Te Anau.
Please note that accommodation is in Department of Conservation huts which are pre-booked for our guests - these are basic but comfortable and must be shared with other track walkers. Clients must carry their own pack containing clothing, sleeping bag, food and cooking equipment/eating utensils. Gas is available in the huts.
2023/2024 Departure Dates:
Departures run between late October 2023 and April 2024.
Most departure dates for the 2023/2024 season are now full, but please do still email us and we can double check if there are any available dates for you.