solo or guided

[wrldtrvllr]

Hi all,

Wondering what is the best way to do the OT - solo (ie. independent) or with a guided group? I've done day and o/night treks before, and more recently a 9d trek to Machu Picchu (party of 5 plus support crew). Costs of doing the OT with a guided group seem somewhat high - are there any operators you recommend? Is it possible to do the walk in less than the 6d suggested? I'm reasonably fit (besides trek to Machu Picchu, have done summit to Mt Fuji, Tongarriro Crossing and various other day treks over mountainous terrain) and don't particularly want to be restricted by weaker walkers in a group.

Suggestions appreciated.

[norts]

You can do it alot faster, but do you want too?
I usually take 7-8 days.
There are different levels of guided trips. Cradle huts have their own private huts - showers and wine every night or there are more basic tours.

Depends what gear you have, if you dont have all the gear and dont want to buy it then a guided trip is the way to go.
Chapmans book is very helpful if you want to do it solo

Roger

[corvus]

Are you self sufficient,if so go it alone and even with the side trips(not Pine Valley) you can do it in 5 days Dove Lake to Narcissus.
If you are a sociable type you wont be Solo after WFV or at the latest Windermere as long term or temporary friendships are normal on this walk
If you are looking for a guided walk I believe an outfit called wilderness expeditions are very competitively priced and use good gear and guides.