The Top Track is a two day self-guided 26km walk over private land which provides a variety of stunning vistas. It begins at Papatowai with remote beach walking, continues along the cliff-tops and through farmland to the overnight accommodation - Top Bus!

Top Bus is a restored trolly bus and is supplied with facilities such as mattresses and pillows, pots, cutlery and dishes. There is a water supply, gas cooker and a "loo with a view". There is accommodation for six people in two double bunks and one double bed.

The second day leads walkers through forest and some of the highest farmland in the area which offers views into the central core of the Catlins. The route then follows the route of the historic Catlins railway down to the lovely bush-lined Maclennan River. The walkers then return to the starting point, Papatowai.

Walkers are given a detailed booklet describing the route and interesting features along the way. The cost of the two day walk is $45 per person and walkers take their own food and sleeping bag. It is possible to do the walk in one day of about 10 hours.

There are various accommodation options available in Papatowai before and after the walk: our Piwakawaka crib or luxurious Pipipi eco cottages, Backpacker or Motels. There is also a shop and bottle store which offers fresh food as well as takeaways.

Quotes and a web page desciption from Top Track walkers:

+ Click here to see a map of the Top Track walk.

"A lovely walk, very diverse and enjoyable. Staying the night in a converted bus is something we'll remember for a long while - what a great idea."
(Kirsty and Richard)
"The windswept trees, the lovely coastal walk, the breathtaking cliffs the friendly farmer.... The funny cows and silly sheep, the loo with a view and a bus to sleep in (with pots and cups provided) make this a truely unique trip."
(Leanne and Karl)
Click here to view an independent web page on the Catlins Top Track

PRICE
Two day walk - accommodation in "Top Bus": $45 per person.
One day walk - no accommodation: $25 per person.
(Packs will be carried to and from the accommodation for an extra $10 per person, min charge $40.)

BOOKINGS AND FURTHER INFORMATION

Email (info@catlins-ecotours.co.nz) us or write, phone or fax:

Catlins Wildlife Trackers
Papatowai
Owaka RD2
South Otago
New Zealand
Phone/fax: 64 3 4158613 Toll free: 0800 2285467 (0800 CATLINS)