From Tekapo: Small-Group, Carbon Neutral Mt Cook Day Tour
Canterbury Plains, Christchurch
Admire Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest peak, on a small group tour from Tekapo. Visit Lake Pukaki, enjoy scenic walks, stunning views, and a delicious lunch from the Fairlie Bakehouse.
Overview
This small-group tour departs from Lake Tekapo and explores Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, suitable for nature and hiking enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Lake Tekapo pickup and drop off
- Lookout over Lake Pukaki
- Pre-ordered lunch from Fairlie Bakehouse included
- Visit to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (scenic flights available separately)
Description
The tour begins with a 10:00am pickup from Lake Tekapo. From there, the journey continues into the Mackenzie Basin. Between late November and early January, the lakeshore features clusters of wild lupins.
Next, there is a 10-minute stop at Lake Pukaki, a glacier-fed lake known for its changing colors from ice blue to deep blue depending on weather conditions. Clear days offer uninterrupted views of Aoraki Mount Cook rising above the lake.
Arriving at Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, established in 1953, guests spend 2 to 2.5 hours exploring. Approximately 40% of the park is glacier-covered, including the 23-kilometre-long Haupapa glacier. The park features 19 mountains over 3000 metres, including Aoraki itself.
Visitors can choose to hike the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track, which offers views of the glacier, surrounding rivers, and Tasman Lake, or explore Mt Cook Village, visiting the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Scenic flights over the mountains can be arranged separately.
Please note that due to possible delays or road conditions, time in the park may be reduced, affecting the ability to complete walks. Guides will provide options and instructions, including the return departure time around 2:15pm.
The return journey to Lake Tekapo allows time to relax after the day’s activities. Additional stops for toilet breaks are included.
Includes
- Small group size for a personalized experience
- Carbon-neutral tour
- Scenic views of Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
- Pre-ordered lunch from Fairlie Bakehouse, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
- WiFi and USB charging on the vehicle
- Informative commentary from local guides
Excludes
- Helicopter scenic flights and other additional activities
Booking Tips
Book in advance to secure your spot and pre-order lunch. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. The best time to visit for lupin blooms is late November to early January. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
