At Hiking New Zealand, we regularly welcome solo travellers on our trips. Solo travel has been gaining popularity, as our ever-busy modern lives often come with schedules that may not align with those of others. Additionally, friends and family are frequently at different stages in their lives or careers, which could explain why solo travel has become more common.
Our inclination toward self-discovery seems to be a growing trend. Stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new experiences often leads to increased confidence, whether it's connecting with locals over a shared meal or completing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Although travelling solo can be challenging in many ways, it doesn’t have to mean travelling alone. At Hiking New Zealand, we’ve noticed that more and more clients are joining our group tours as individuals - and they love it!
You’re travelling, it should feel like your dream holiday, not a logistical nightmare. The most stressful part of any trip often lies in the planning, figuring out where to stay, what to see, and how to get there without missing out on anything important. With a tour, the logistics are taken care of for you. From the moment you arrive, you can leave the worries behind. No need to stress about vehicle rentals, navigating unfamiliar roads, finding the best spots, or even deciding where to eat. All you have to do is show up, relax, and enjoy the experience whether you’re on the road or the trail, you’re free to focus on the adventure, not the details.
Travelling can be exhausting. When you have limited time away from home, you want to maximise your experiences without overexerting yourself. To get the most out of your trip, being able to relax and enjoy the ride, whether by gazing out the window or catching up on some rest, ensures you won’t have the stress of driving in a new place (especially if you're driving on the other side of the road). You won’t have to worry about missed turns, detours, or missing out on views while you focus on the road.
Leave the driving to the professionals. Our guides drive these roads many times each season, and are more than accustomed to driving on the left!
Our tours bring together people from all corners of the globe and we find strangers quickly become friends. Bonds between like-minded travellers immediately addresses the desire for companionship when travelling solo. Strength in numbers fosters confidence, which makes facing the unfamiliar much less daunting.
There's something magical about sharing new experiences with others, whether it’s standing on a mountain together, laughing over a meal, chatting in a van between hikes, or swapping stories around a campfire. The bonds formed on these journeys often go beyond simple companionship they become a source of strength, turning unfamiliar places into familiar, welcoming spaces.
As you explore New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, you’ll not only create memories that last a lifetime, but you’ll also leave with connections that continue long after the trip ends. These friendships are born from shared adventure, and it’s these moments that make the journey all the more special.
At Hiking New Zealand, we prioritise providing quality, accurate, and memorable interpretation. Our experienced guides are there not only lead the way but also to share fascinating stories and insights about the places you visit. They’ll answer any questions you have and make each experience immersive, so you can gain a deeper understanding of New Zealand's unique culture and environment.
You’ll learn about the country’s rich natural and cultural history, from the Māori legends tied to iconic landmarks like Aoraki Mount Cook, to the diverse flora, fauna and geology that shape the landscape. Whether you’re walking through ancient rainforests, traversing volcanic terrains, or exploring coastal ecosystems, our guides bring the land to life, ensuring that every step you take adds to your knowledge and connection to New Zealand’s natural wonders.
Travel is about more than just seeing new places, it's about challenging yourself, stepping out of your comfort zone, and discovering what you’re truly capable of. Group tours provide the perfect environment to help you achieve this. Strength and safety in numbers, combined with the guidance of knowledgeable experts, can give you the confidence to try new things and push your limits.
Whether it’s summiting a challenging trail, kayaking through rugged fiords, or simply learning to embrace the unfamiliar, the support of a group makes all the difference. Encouragement from like-minded travellers and the assurance of an experienced guide allow you to focus on reaching your goals, both big and small, while making the most of every moment.
Travel doesn’t have to be all or nothing, it can be a blend of independence and connection. Perhaps you enjoy the freedom of travelling solo, crafting your own itinerary, and exploring at your own pace. But maybe you don’t want your entire trip to feel solitary. Why not mix it up?
For instance, you could immerse yourself in the North Island’s vibrant cities, geothermal wonders, and coastal escapes on your own. Then, when it’s time to venture to the South Island, join one of our tours! You’ll enjoy the ease of a fully planned experience, complete with knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and the camaraderie of fellow travellers. It’s the perfect way to explore the best of both islands your way, without the stress of planning every detail.
The benefits of solo travel are plentiful. Most notably, the potential to feel free; entirely autonomous with no one to answer to. The opportunity to move to the beat of your own drum is a rare experience in today’s world. But this freedom rarely comes without challenges.
Feelings of loneliness or lack of companionship, perhaps even imposter syndrome when in unfamiliar places is not uncommon. Arguably, the biggest challenge faced by many solo travellers is the daunting task of planning an itinerary. Small group tours have therefore become the perfect solution for individual travellers seeking companionship and planning assistance without sacrificing the opportunity for growth and self-discovery!
Travelling solo is an adventure unlike any other, it’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone, discover more about yourself, and create memories that last a lifetime. But going it alone doesn’t mean you have to face every challenge on your own. Joining a group tour offers the perfect balance: the freedom to explore combined with the ease of expert planning and the joy of connecting with like-minded travellers and enjoying safety in numbers.
Whether you're looking to simplify your journey, meet incredible people, or dive deeper into the beauty of New Zealand, a group tour could be the key to unlocking a richer, more rewarding travel experience. So, why not embrace the best of both worlds? Your next great adventure might just be waiting for you, and a few new friends to share it with.
Words by Oli Evans
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