Aoraki Mount Cook Tour
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook. This tour includes guided hikes, visits to scenic viewpoints, and educational talks about the area's rich history and geology. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
- Duration
- ~12 hours
- Group size
- Up to 4 guests
- Price
- From $630 per person
- Distance
- 660 km
About this tour
This full-day tour from Christchurch spans 12 hours, taking you through some of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine scenery. I'm happy to extend this into a multi-day trip if you'd like more time to explore Aoraki Mount Cook or enjoy the stunning night sky. Alternatively, we can continue onwards to Queenstown and Milford Sound.
The journey covers 660 kilometres, giving you approximately 2 hours to enjoy lunch and explore Aoraki Mount Cook. My Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook tour offers you the opportunity to experience a diverse range of landscapes, from the Canterbury Plains to the permanent snowfields of the Southern Alps.
The route takes you through the rolling pastures of Geraldine, up into the alpine tussock grasslands, around the stunning Lake Tekapo, and finally into the alpine wonderland of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Here you'll witness the true magnificence of New Zealand's highest peak, standing at 3,724 metres.
You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture Instagram-worthy photos throughout the journey. I'll stop for morning tea at a scenic location along the way—perhaps near the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, where you can admire the stunning turquoise blue waters of Lake Tekapo.
As we venture deeper into Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, approaching the Tasman Glacier and snowfields, you'll enjoy a hand-crafted two-course picnic lunch in a picturesque location of your choice. While in the National Park, you can take a guided walk along the Hooker Valley track to Mueller Lake, offering incredible views of the Tasman Glacier and the eastern face of Aoraki Mount Cook. You also have the option to take a scenic flight (additional cost), or simply relax and soak in the magnificent views from The Hermitage Hotel.
What's included
- Transport to and from Aoraki Mount Cook in a BYD Shark
- Experienced and knowledgeable tour operator and guide
- Homemade, organic picnic lunch featuring a kiwi-inspired soup accompanied with bread, meat, and cheeses, or a Japanese-inspired salmon dish
- Guided walk along the Hooker Valley Track
A typical day
- 7:00 AM
Depart Christchurch
I'll pick you up from your accommodation in Christchurch and begin the journey through the Canterbury Plains.
- 9:00 AM
Break / View Farm Animals at Tin Shed
Take a break and visit a local farm to see New Zealand farm animals up close.
- 10:00 AM
Lake Tekapo Morning Tea
Stop at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy morning tea while admiring the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo. Perfect photo opportunity!
- 11:00 AM
Lake Pukaki Photo Stop
Capture the breathtaking views of Lake Pukaki with the option to purchase fresh farmed salmon.
- 12:00 PM
Hike the Hooker Valley Track to Mueller Lake
Enjoy a guided walk along the Hooker Valley track, leading to Mueller Lake with spectacular views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki Mount Cook.
- 3:30 PM
Depart Aoraki Mount Cook
Begin the return journey to Christchurch, with stops for photos and rest breaks along the way.
- 7:30 PM
Arrive Back in Christchurch
Return to your accommodation in Christchurch with unforgettable memories of New Zealand's highest peak.
Optional extras
Scenic Flight
From Lake Tekapo, Glentanner Airport 20 kilometres before Mount Cook village.
$123extraSki Plane Flight
Land on the Tasman Glacier, departing from Mount Cook Airport.
$321extra
Good to know
- What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changeable weather, sunscreen, a camera, and an open mind.
- Weather and changes
- South Island weather changes fast. Craig adjusts stops and timings for weather and road conditions on the day, and will suggest another date if conditions are unsafe.
- Cancellation
- Cancel more than 7 days before the tour for a full refund, less a 10% administration fee. Cancellations within 7 days are not refunded. If Craig has to cancel, for example for unsafe weather, you choose a new date or a full refund.
What happens after you enquire
- Send your dates, group size, and interests. Craig replies within 24 hours.
- Craig confirms availability and the price, and adjusts the itinerary with you.
- Your booking is confirmed in writing. Craig picks you up on the day.
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- Plan a custom tour
Combine stops from several tours, or go somewhere else on the South Island.
- Stay with Craig
Homestay accommodation in Craig's Christchurch home.
- Meet your guide
Craig plans, drives, and guides every tour himself.
Tell me what you'd like to see
Send me your dates, your group size, and any places you have in mind.
- Phone
- +64 21 1811 570 (also on WhatsApp)
- info@cannztours.com