We have been operating the Best of the South Island tour for several years now. Of course, we have made changes to it over the years, but the travelers' reports are so consistently great, that we don't want to fix something that isn't broken! Hence, the basic itinerary has remained fairly consistent for a few years now.

So, here are some of the comments, letters and stories written to us by travelers who have experienced the very Best of the South Island!

Click on the travelers names or pictures to read their 'full' stories on their Serious Fun experience, or simply scroll down to read other traveler's comments.

"I expected to see many aspects of life on the South Island (flora, fauna, marine, seaside, mountain etc.) and this trip provided the full flavor of all!

Mark showed us great consideration for every need we required of him. His knowledge was expressed continuously - we came away with a feeling that we have some insight into the cultural history and natural forces of the island. His organizational skills were paramount in increasing our enjoyment.

"I have wanted to come to New Zealand for 20 years, and feared that the reality could not possibly live up to my expectations.. but I was wrong! The trip far exceeded my expectations.

As much as I enjoyed my rail journey from Auckland to Greymouth before the tour, as soon as I joined the BOSI tour, each day just got better and better right up to the very end!

Mark is a remarkable young man. Not only is he exceedingly pleasant and knowledgeable, but he kept his sense of humor and was always able to adjust activities to accommodate our special requests on short notice if required.

"Overall, the trip was excellent. I thought the itinerary was very good, the places we stayed excellent, food excellent and there was enough free time when we needed it!

I couldn't say enough good things about Mark - he's a genuine person who has an ideal disposition to guide people, and handle what comes along unexpectedly.

My highlights were the Routeburn Track, the Fox Glacier walk on the ice and staying in the "Old Convent" in Kaikoura."

"The Best of the South Island trip was excellent! It far exceeded our expectations - what a treat! It was like 14 days of being royalty.

It was a great way to see the country combined with wonderful activities! Everyday was a highlight in itself - every stop and every turn - what a wonderful country.

Mark was remarkable - kind, knowledgeable, flexible, pleasant, brilliant! We enjoyed the fact that we had the flexibility to change the itinerary along the way due to the weather."

"The Best of the South Island trip far exceeded our expectations! The glacier walk, Routeburn Track, plane flight to Milford Sound, walk on the beach near Cape Foulwind, early morning walk around Lake Matheson... all amazing!

Mark is very capable and competent. He is prepared, organized, safety conscious, knowledgeable, informed on many topics, thoughtfully flexible and passionately 'wild' about New Zealand!"