For travellers who enjoy having some or all of their Central Otago Rail Trail experience organised for them, a Package Operator is the answer.

Package Operators servicing the Rail Trail offer a range of packages from all-inclusive, fully guided 5-day tours to excursions and booking services for sightseers, walkers and cyclists.

Some Package Operators have set tours offering a particular experience, usually according to a timetable and within a specified timeframe. These tours have predetermined pick up and drop off locations, such as Queenstown, Dunedin, Christchurch or local.

Other Package Operators offer custom-made tours to suit people’s individual requirements and interests. These are likely to be more flexible with regard to duration, group size, pick up and drop off points and add-on activities like curling or sightseeing.

Tour packages can be fully escorted with everything provided and pre-organised. This could include cycles, luggage transfers, guides, accommodation, refreshments, meals and transport so you can walk or cycle as much or as little as you choose. Alternatively, they can be partially supported providing some of those services and not others. The duration of tours vary, usually between one and five days. Tour sizes also vary, with some operators specialising in small groups.

If time is limited, an excursion package is a great way to discover the Rail Trail’s highlights. There are both set tours and custom-made excursion packages on offer ranging from only a few hours in duration to a full day.