If you’re trying to work out which kind of trip is right for you - and finding the choice harder than expected - you’re not alone. Most women begin by thinking there are only two options: either travelling independently or joining a guided tour. But in reality, there’s a third option sitting in the middle - and understanding the difference between all three often makes the decision much clearer. Self-guided, supported, and fully guided walking or cycling holidays can all be w

If you’ve ever searched online for a walking or hiking tour in New Zealand, you’ve probably noticed something fairly quickly: Different companies use very different words. Some talk about walking tours. Others describe the same experience as hiking, bushwalking, trekking or even tramping. And to make things even more confusing, the same word can mean very different things depending on whether you’re in New Zealand, Australia, the UK or North America. So if you’ve ever wondere

Keen to explore somewhere new, away from the crowds, in great company and with an experienced guide? These two North Island tracks each stand on their own, and work beautifully together if you have the time for both.

If you’ve been looking at our cycling tours and wondering which one is right for you - you’re not alone. It’s a question we hear all the time. Here we’re comparing two of our cycling tours to help you decide. Both are in the South Island. Both are on Ebikes. Both start in Queenstown. But they’re very different rides.

On 17 January 2001, Angelika founded Sidetracks. At the time, she couldn't have imagined what the next 25 years would bring - the landscapes covered, the people met, the unexpected turns that would shape everything.

You’ve found a tour you’d love to join… but then you read “shared room” - and suddenly you’re hesitating. Totally normal. We’ve talked to so many women who felt the same at first. That’s exactly why we started our little Room Talk series - to answer the questions you might not want to ask, but still wonder about. Here’s a quick roundup - honest, practical, and with a bit of humour too.

We get asked this more and more: “I’d love to come – but with my food intolerances, will I even be able to eat with the group?” We understand – and you’re not the only one. For many women, food isn’t “just food.” We get it – and we care.

We know it’s not easy to choose – especially when all four tours offer stunning scenery, small groups, home-style meals, and that special Sidetracks mix of fun, freedom, and feeling looked after. To make it a little easier, we’ve written up a short guide to help you decide.

October 2025 marks a very special milestone for me – it’s been 30 years since I first landed in New Zealand to work as a tour guide. Here I share with you not only how my journey unfolded, but also my personal favourite months of travelling in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand.

When you picture yourself on a hike of 5–7 hours, do you wonder: Will I really manage the whole day? The truth is – yes, you can! With a few simple steps you’ll feel stronger, steadier, and ready to enjoy every view (not just the next rest stop).

If you’ve ever considered joining a women’s group tour as a solo traveller, chances are these questions have popped into your mind. In this honest and friendly guide, we’re answering all those quiet concerns – from snoring to shared bathrooms – and showing what rooming on our tours really looks like. Spoiler: no one shares a bed (unless you ask to 😉). 👉 Curious? Here’s what to expect – and why so many women end up saying, “That wasn’t nearly as scary as I thought!”

Booking early means more than just saving money – it helps us plan better, confirms your spot sooner, and keeps your travel stress-free. In this blog post, we explain how our Early Bird offer works, why it’s worth it, and how it benefits everyone involved.

Ebikes are taking the cycling world by storm, and it’s easy to see why – they make cycling so much more fun and accessible!

Experience the iconic TranzAlpine Express - a dream for many, now in reach for participants on our West Coast Wilderness Cycle Tour.

Let us give you some insight into what this sign stands for and how QEII Covenants safeguard New Zealand’s ecological treasures.

How do you choose the perfect cycling tour?

A quirky and wonderful place awaits you near the half-way point of the Banks Peninsula Track.

Learn everything you need to know about these pesky critters and how to outsmart them on your next adventure

Why we love being on the water and what sets our multi activity tour West Coast Special apart from our other tours

Find out why this trail is one of our favourites! It's not only the spectacular views...