-300x200.jpg)
-300x200.jpg)
-300x200.jpg)
-300x200.jpg)
Overview
The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's finest coastal walks, weaving through native forest and cresting ridgelines with sweeping views over Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. What sets this walk apart is the lodge-to-lodge experience — each night's accommodation sits right on the water, so the feeling of being immersed in the Sounds never really stops. The Marlborough region has a well-earned gourmet reputation, and the quality of food and wine along the track matches the scenery. Bags are transferred by boat each day, leaving walkers free to carry only a daypack.
This four-day itinerary covers just the essentials, making it ideal for the budget-conscious walker. It still covers the full length of the trail but does not include pre and post-walk accommodation, breakfast or dinner. We recommend choosing our six-day itinerary for a relaxing start and end to your walking holiday.
Highlights
- Walk the Queen Charlotte track end-to-end from Ship Cove to Anakiwa
- Astonishing coastline, stunning coves, and old-growth forest
- Lush rainforest gullies sheltering massive tree ferns
- Spot rimu trees, waterfalls and glow worms at night
- Eatwell lookout with sensational, 360-degree views over Endeavour Inlet and Bay of Many Coves
- Stay in comfort on the edge of the Sounds each night, whilst enjoying nature at its best
Loading overview...
Itinerary
Day 1
The trip starts on the Picton wharf at 8.30 am. Be transferred by ferry to your drop off point at Ship Cove. This is the location where Captain Cook landed 5 times and met with the local Maoris. There's a memorial to Cook that celebrates his voyages. The walk begins with an old-growth forest, dotted with Rimu trees. One of them is over 1000 years old. There’s plenty of time to enjoy the lookouts and the views over Queen Charlotte Sound. We walk to School House and Resolution Bays and then onto Endeavour Inlet, our final destination for today and your stunning accommodation. Every day we walk in and out of beautiful accommodations that sit right on the water's edge. The luggage is seamlessly transported from accommodation to accommodation and will be waiting in your room. No meals included today. Please pick up lunch before meeting at Picton Wharf.
Lodge in Furneaux
What's Included
Accommodation
1 Lodge, 2 Hotel
Meals
0 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 0 dinners
Transfers
- Ferry transfer
Guidance & Support
- Printed itinerary & walk notes
- Stroll walking app
- 24/7 on-trip support
How We Rate This Walk
Stroll Walking Level
Moderate to Challenging
Rated by our team — we walk every route before we recommend it.
Regular hills and varied terrain. These walks involve more challenging sections. Regular walking beforehand is recommended.
View Fitness Guide4
Days on the trail
12-24 km
Average per walking day
579-1161 m
Gain per day
8/10
Trail difficulty
Where You'll Stay
The accommodation on the Queen Charlotte Track is a highlight in its own right. Each lodge sits directly on the Sounds, with the water at your doorstep from the moment you arrive. Furneaux Lodge, Punga Cove and the Portage Hotel are among New Zealand's finest track-side properties, each combining quality rooms, excellent dining and genuine hospitality in one of the country's most beautiful settings.
What You'll Eat
Each lodge along the track has its own onsite restaurant, giving you the freedom to dine at your own pace each evening. Packed lunches are included on days two, three and four, but all breakfasts, dinners and your first day's lunch are paid directly on the ground.
Note: For a package with most meals included, see our five-day or six-day Queen Charlotte itineraries.
More About This Trip
Departure Dates
Choose Your Start Date
Pick any available date — this is your trip, your schedule
October 2026
November 2026
Season & Pricing Guide
Prices shown are per person, twin/double share basis.
Queen Charlotte Track reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Know More?
Call UsThe Queen Charlotte Experience
From