Which Hiking Tour Is Right for You?

A guide to five unique women-only walks

All of our hikes are beautiful – but they’re not all the same. If you’re wondering which track best matches your pace, fitness, and sense of adventure, this guide is for you.

At Sidetracks Women, we’ve designed a range of women-only hiking tours in New Zealand to suit different styles of walkers. Some of you dream of wide coastal views, others prefer quiet mountain trails – and many simply want to enjoy the safety, support, and company of a small group of women.

Whichever tour you choose, you’ll always enjoy:

• Small groups of women 50+

• Supportive female guides

• Delicious home-style meals

• Multi-day walks with only a light daypack
  

But each track has its own rhythm, landscape, and highlights. Here’s a simple overview of our most popular guided hiking tours in New Zealand to help you decide.

🥾 Kaikoura Coast Track – Coastal hiking bliss

Imagine walking along the Kaikoura Coast with only the sounds of the sea and nature around you. This 3-day hike offers peaceful coastal views by day, and warm showers, tasty meals, and friendly company by night.

👉 Best for: Women who are new to multi-day hikes in New Zealand and in good health. No special experience needed – just a spirit of adventure!

📍 Multiple departures each season – see Kaikoura Coast Track details

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⛰ Banks Peninsula Track – From dolphins to dramatic cliffs

Your journey begins with a boat ride in Akaroa Harbour, where dolphins often play. The hike then takes you across rolling farmland, lush forest, and volcanic landscapes, before leading to dramatic cliffs and secluded bays. Expect sweeping Pacific views and the chance to spot penguins or sea lions.

👉 Best for: Women in solid walking shape who don’t mind hills and uneven ground. Also a great option for fit beginners looking for a rewarding challenge.

📍 Several departures available – full Banks Peninsula Track overview

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🖼️ Island Hills Station Track – High-country charm

A quiet gem in North Canterbury, this track offers vast views, gentle ridgelines, and peaceful native bush. With no phone reception and no rush, it’s a chance to fully switch off and enjoy the high-country atmosphere. Evenings mean cosy beds, hearty meals, and real farm hospitality.

👉 Best for: Active women who enjoy a steady walking pace.

📍 Limited departures, some already filling fast – check Island Hills Track dates here

💡 Combination tip: The Kaikoura, Banks Peninsula, and Island Hills tours line up perfectly. Many women combine two or three for a longer hiking holiday in New Zealand.

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🌿 Nuku Track – A wild new escape (new tour)

Opening for the first time to small groups, the Nuku Track on the remote West Coast of the North Island is a brand-new adventure. Think rugged, untouched landscapes and the joy of discovering something few others have walked before.

👉 Best for: Women with a reasonable fitness level who love discovering new, off-the-beaten-path places.

📍 Exclusive departures –Exclusive departures – see Nuku Track tour

__________________________________________________________________________🌊 Nelson Lakes, Nydia & Queen Charlotte Track – Three landscapes in one

Why choose just one landscape when you can have three? This 8-day tour combines the mountains of Nelson Lakes National Park, the tranquillity of the Nydia Track, and the iconic Queen Charlotte Track in the Marlborough Sounds. Expect forests, beaches, ridgelines, water taxis, and a bit of everything New Zealand hiking has to offer.

👉 Best for: Women in good health who enjoy longer walking days and want variety.

📍 Three departures per season – view Nelson Lakes & Queen Charlotte tour details

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Ready to lace up your boots?

Now you have a clear overview of the different women-only hiking tours in New Zealand we offer. The next step? Choose the track that fits your pace, your style – and your season.

👉 See all upcoming hiking tours 👉 Contact us for advice – we’ll help you find the perfect track.

Some tours already have limited spaces. If one speaks to you, don’t wait too long – we’d love to walk with you!